Arc Rise Fantasia Game Script Copyright 2010-2014 Ryan Parisen (MabinogiFan) This guide may not be used on any other web site or source without permission from me. All trademarks and copyrights contained in this document are owned by their respective trademark and copyright holders. Sources Used: My own copy of the game Youtube.com (videos by users WishingTikal, Time4rpgs, aginoterra, Dzubei11 and SplitPlaythru) Kiariy's Outfit/Costume guide for information on Skits and Costumes Asch the Hated's Tales of Symphonia Game Script, for giving me the idea of how to script several story instances If you have any questions or comments, e-mail me at [email protected]. If you find any potential errors in this guide, please inform me. ______________________________________________________________________________ ------------------ [About this Guide] ------------------ This "Game Script" serves as a complete transcript of all the dialogue of the main storyline of this game, as well as dialogue for skits, various sidequests, and a few other things. This is mainly for those who wish to know the storyline without playing the game, or for those who would like to look up a quote from the game easily. Things excluded from this guide include most dialogue triggered by talking to characters and NPCs manually and tutorials. I've also written descriptive details to inform the reader on what is occurring in a scene. In this game script, all the main story dialogue, skits, and some extra dialogue in Arc Rise Fantasia are at your fingertips, but I suppose it's no substitute for playing the actual game and experiencing it yourself. Nevertheless, I hope you will find use for this guide. Enjoy! _______________________________________________________________________________ ---------------------- [Game Script Contents] ---------------------- Introduction..............................................................(INT) Retea Forest..............................................................(RTF) Topazion first visit......................................................(TFV) Jada and Dragon Prison first visit........................................(JDF) Diamant first visit.......................................................(DFV) Mandelro Coast............................................................(MDC) Olquina and Kopin Village.................................................(OKV) Nabra Jungle..............................................................(NBJ) Full Moon Inn, Antrax, and Olquina Shrine.................................(FAO) Oceansong Road and Return to Shrine.......................................(ORS) Diamant second visit......................................................(DSV) Carbunculus first visit...................................................(CFV) Benetnasch first visit....................................................(BFV) Gauss Tunnel..............................................................(GTN) Batrachites first visit...................................................(BCV) Ebur and Ebur Ruins.......................................................(EER) Galois Ravine.............................................................(GLR) Back in the Empire and Rufunga............................................(BER) Jada and Dragon Prison second visit.......................................(JDS) Gula Church Ruins.........................................................(GCR) Rogress Hunting 1.........................................................(RH1) Opalus and Resolvent Iceberg..............................................(ORI) Rogress Hunting 2.........................................................(RH2) Revelations, Goals, and Sister Rescue.....................................(RGS) Rogress Hunting 3.........................................................(RH3) A Chance for Peace........................................................(ACP) Flagship Percival.........................................................(FSP) Waking Ryfia and Zeifellt Holy Tower......................................(WRZ) The Resistance and Ruins of Hilbert.......................................(RRH) Saving Carbunculus and Ellgode Volcano....................................(CEV) Sonia Carlisle and Soliton Caves..........................................(SCS) Confronting Alf...........................................................(CFA) Cradle....................................................................(CDL) Lascarde Skywalk..........................................................(LSW) The Crystal Continent and Verct Skywalk...................................(CVS) Preparations for the End..................................................(PFE) The Holy Land of Noire....................................................(HLN) Final Boss & Ending.......................................................(FBE) -------- [Extras] -------- Mandatory Rogress.........................................................(MRG) Papirusagu - Zeifellt Holy Tower.........................................(PZT) Banchu - Ruins of Hilbert................................................(BRH) Urgula - Ellgode Volcano.................................................(UEV) Squill - Soliton Caves...................................................(SSC) Skits.....................................................................(SKT) Costume Skits............................................................(CSS) Optional Rogress..........................................................(ORG) Allwise...................................................................(ALW) Miscellaneous.............................................................(MCA) If you wish to jump to a specific section in the guide, press CTRL+F and type in the corresponding character at the rightmost side. _______________________________________________________________________________ ------------- [Game Script] ------------- [------------------------] [Introduction-------(INT)] [------------------------] (The story begins on a Lightship fleet of the Meridian Empire. L'Arc, our protagonist, is on board one of the ships and surrounded by soldiers. L'Arc prepares to leave towards the Lightship deck while other soldiers prepare for battle. L'Arc and another soldier pat each other's shoulders. Many Feldragons are flying in the sky towards the Lightship fleet. The soldiers reach the decks of their ships and fight the Feldragons. One dragon flies overhead L'Arc's ship. The other soldiers stand back as L'Arc fights the dragon. L'Arc battles and weakens the dragon. L'Arc manages to slash its head and stab his sword through the dragon. Another Feldragon appears and knocks L'Arc and the defeated dragon off of the Lightship. The Arc Rise Fantasia logo appears on the screen. L'Arc reclaims his sword from the Feldragon's body and lands safely on the ground with a roll. The dragon lands and begins to glow a bright red light) L'Arc: Oh, no... Felburst! (L'Arc takes cover) L'Arc: Ugh... (L'Arc covers his eyes. The glow starts to fade. A girl's singing voice is heard) L'Arc: What the...? (A blue light shines down from the skies almost like rain. The girl singing appears. Several blue lights shine down on the Feldragon. The dragon glows and disappears. The girl stops singing. The sun comes out) Girl: The Feldragon has returned to the earth. (L'Arc stands up, albeit with some difficulty) L'Arc: You... you saved me, didn't you? Well, thanks. That was close! But that wasn't magic... was it? Hymn Magic, perhaps? Surely not. Are you a Coder? (The girl feels dizzy. She falls but L'Arc catches her) L'Arc: Hey, Hey, Hey! Whoa whoa! (The girl manages to stand up) Girl: ...I'm sorry. L'Arc: You really took a beating. What's a girl doing out here...? Girl: Girl? Are you talking about me? L'Arc: Well, yeah. I don't know your name. Sorry, I wasn't trying to be rude. I'm L'Arc. And you are? Girl: "Rude"? What is rude? L'Arc: Uh, what? Girl: I thought you were going to call me "girl." Do you call everyone "girl"? L'Arc: Whaa? What are you talking about? Girl: I'm a Diva, but you can call me Ryfia. L'Arc: Huh? What kind of a weirdo are you? Ryfia: A weirdo...? A derogatory term for a strange person... L'Arc: Ugh! What is wrong with you?! (L'Arc begins to walk away) Ryfia: Oh, dear, are you angry? L'Arc: No, but I'm getting annoyed! Well, whatever. Okay... Ryfia, right? Let's just get you somewhere safe for now. There might be more Feldragons around here. Ryfia: Somewhere safe? L'Arc: Yeah. I think the village of Topazion is southeast of here. I'll take you as far as there. It's the least I can do. Ryfia: Really? Okay... Thank you. L'Arc: Boy... What's going on here, anyway? [------------------------] [Retea Forest-------(RTF)] [------------------------] (L'Arc and Ryfia set out through the Retea Forest. They come upon a strange creature) Ryfia: What's that? L'Arc: Look out! That's a monster! Ryfia: Huh? L'Arc: It's coming! Get back! Ryfia: I'm going to fight too. L'Arc: Alright... Stay behind me and provide support. Ryfia: Okay. (L'Arc and Ryfia enter battle with the monster, which is known as a Mandragora. L'Arc shows her how to fight and they defeat the monsters) L'Arc: How was that? Do you understand how to fight monsters now? Ryfia: Yes. But giving out orders while fighting seems difficult. L'Arc: Well, there's another, easier way. "Tactics." Ryfia: "Tactics"? L'Arc: Tactics allow combatants to make their own decisions. So we don't have to issue so many orders all the time. Ryfia: If you leave it up to us, we might do something silly, though! L'Arc: Don't worry about that. Tactics can be customized. Ryfia: You can choose what tactics to use based on the enemy and the situation. L'Arc: I'll give orders when they're really needed. If we lose, then we're done for! Ryfia: I'll be counting on you. L'Arc: Right. Let's go! Topazion is on the other side of these woods. (The two continue through Retea Forest. They stop at a clearing. Ryfia notices that it begins to rain) Ryfia: Strange... It's sunny but it's raining. L'Arc: The devil must be beating his wife. Ryfia: Who? Beating his what?! L'Arc: You don't know that expression? Ryfia: No... but I like it. It sounds... Interesting. (Ryfia spins around and feels the rain) L'Arc: Hey, watch your step! (Ryfia trips) Ryfia: ?!? (L'Arc catches her. Their faces are inches away from each other. Ryfia smiles) Ryfia: Thank you. L'Arc: D-Don't mention it. Just be careful, okay? (They exit the forest and enter the world map to go to Topazion) [--------------------------------] [Topazion first visit-------(TFV)] [--------------------------------] (L'Arc and Ryfia enter the village of Topazion) L'Arc: Well, we're here. Ryfia: Is this Topazion? L'Arc: Yeah, We're at the far north end of the Empire. Ryfia: The Empire... Do you mean the Meridian Empire? L'Arc: Sure! What else would I mean? The Meridian Empire's the only thing around here. Ryfia: Oh... really? So... so I've finally reached the Empire! L'Arc: Huh? You're not from the Empire? Ryfia: I'm from... Benetnasch. L'Arc: Benetnasch? Wha?! That's in the Turemilian Republic! What're you doing here, anyway? You do realize Turemilia and the Empire are enemies? Ryfia: It was my...my mother's dying... dying...wi...wish. L'Arc: H-Hey! What's wrong, Ryfia? Ryfia: I feel a little dizzy... L'Arc: You're probably just worn out. Let's get you to an inn. Ryfia: inn? What's an inn? L'Arc: Whaddya mean, "what's an inn?" An inn's an inn! A place to sleep! Ryfia: Are there beds at an inn? L'Arc: Of course there are! Ryfia: Oh, how wonderful! I've been sleeping on the ground for days. L'Arc: Whoa! Definitely inn time, then. Are you okay? Can you walk? Ryfia: Yes. (L'Arc and Ryfia enter the Eloquent Cat Inn and a yellow-haired man notices L'Arc) Man: L'Arc! I'm so glad! I knew you were alive! L'Arc: Alf? What're you doing here? Alf: Lightship Fleet II returned from duty, so I thought I'd come and find you. L'Arc: Ahh! You can explain later. Ryfia needs a place to rest. Alf: Ryfia? Ryfia: Ah... Hello. Alf: H-Hello... (L'Arc and Alf meet in a room at the inn. L'Arc tells Alf the whole story) Alf: Hmm... So that's what happened after you fell from the Lightship with that Feldragon. L'Arc: ...Gah! This has become a complete mess! What am I supposed to do about her? Alf: Don't talk like that! Imagine how hard it must've been for her to come here from Turemilia! If there's some way we can help her, then I think we should. L'Arc: Hmph. You're just as nice as always. In fact, you're too nice for your own good, you know that? I mean, what's the prince of an Empire doing looking for one missing legionnaire? Alf: You don't expect me to just sit around while my friend is in peril, do you? L'Arc: Well, we slew the Feldragon, right? I'm not going to be treated as a deserter, am I? That would mean the remaining half of my contract money would be... Alf: Always about the money with you, eh? Don't worry. You'll be paid just as stated in the contract. L'Arc: Phew! Well, good! I put my life on the line back there! Alf: I'll be right back. I need to report that you've been found. Would you mind preparing for the journey before she wakes up? L'Arc: The journey? Alf: You're going to take Ryfia over to where she's going, right? I'm going with you. L'Arc: Is a prince allowed to traipse around without his bodyguards? Alf: You'll be my bodyguard, won't you? L'Arc: Ahhhh... Yes, of course, your Highness! Alf: One more thing. I'd really appreciate it if you'd check around the village for any Feldragon damage. The village elder should be able to offer you some information. L'Arc: Oh, right! We can't be forgetting the plight of your subjects, huh? Alf: Do I detect some sarcasm? I trust you'll have no problems doing what I've asked... (Alf leaves) L'Arc: (To Ryfia) Sorry for leaving you alone. Get some rest. You need it. (Ryfia leaves the party. L'Arc leaves the inn. He enters the Village Elder's House) L'Arc: I'm L'Arc Bright Lagoon, legionnaire of the Meridian Imperial Army. I'm just on my way back from hunting Feldragons up north. Have they been causing you any trouble? Village Elder: You're from the army? Well, you must be exhausted! Luckily, our village has magic to repel the Feldragons. You can relax safely here. L'Arc: That's good to hear! Has anything out of the ordinary been happening? Village Elder: Come to think of it... I've heard rumors of a wrecked Turemilian ship on the east coast. L'Arc: A Republic ship? I'll report that once I get to Royal City. By the way, is there a doctor in this village? Village Elder: Yes, there is... L'Arc: Can you send him to the inn for me? One of my companions may be sick. Village Elder: Yes, of course. (L'Arc heads for the inn and finds Alf conversing with an Imperial Soldier) Imperial Soldier: Can we really leave you by yourself, my Prince? Alf: I'm sorry to be so selfish with you. My brother Weiss will probably be upset. Imperial Soldier: Very well. Best of luck sir. (The soldier leaves) L'Arc: You're a very selfish prince. Alf: Apparently I chose the wrong friends. L'Arc: Well, if Your Highness says so, it must be true. (The doctor arrives) L'Arc: Ah, are you the doctor the village elder sent? Doctor: Indeed I am. And you are? L'Arc: Thanks your coming. Follow me. (Back inside the inn...) Doctor: There's nothing wrong with her. She's just very tired. Alf: That's good. Doctor: However, there's a Dragon Gem stuck to her skin, and I can't remove it... Strange, this! L'Arc: Dragon Gem? You mean the gems found on Feldragons? Ryfia: Doesn't everyone have one? L'Arc: That might be true in your country, but it's definitely not normal here! Ryfia: Really? How weird! L'Arc: So says the weirdo! Alf: L'Arc! You shouldn't talk like that! Thank you very much Doctor. Here is your fee. Doctor: Take care. (The doctor leaves) L'Arc: Do you have enough money to pay? Alf: Yes. I brought at least enough money to get us back to Royal City. You can have the remainder. (L'Arc obtains 2000 Rico) L'Arc: Those Turemilians sure have some strange customs. Why would you attach Dragon Gems to your body? Alf: I don't think I've actually heard of that custom before... L'Arc: (To Ryfia) Ah, well. At least you didn't have some mystery illness. So, what's your plan now? Ryfia: To follow my mother's dying wish to go to Jada in the Meridian Empire. Alf: Jada? Do you know someone there? Ryfia: No. I just need to go there. L'Arc: Jada is home to one of the Empire's critical energy sources. No way am I taking someone from the Republic there... Ryfia: Oh, don't worry about me. I'll go there by myself. L'Arc: It's not about your safety, Ryfia... Alf: It'll be fine L'Arc. Just as long as she doesn't go near the Ray supply in Dragon Prison. Besides, Jada is on the way back to Royal City. Let's just take her with us. L'Arc: You really are too nice. Have I mentioned that lately? Well that's all fine and dandy. Is that okay with you Ryfia? Ryfia: Will you really take me to Jada? L'Arc: Hmph! I'm sure Mr. Nice Guy Sir Alf will... Ryfia: Oh, but you're nice too, L'Arc! L'Arc: Pfft... Alf: Hah! You've seen right through him Ryfia. He may put on a tough guy act, but he's really a gentleman at heart! L'Arc: ...Shut up! Let's just get her to Jada for now. Ryfia: Thank you both so much! (Ryfia and Alf join the party. The trio leaves Topazion and sets out for Jada) [----------------------------------------------] [Jada and Dragon Prison first visit-------(JDF)] [----------------------------------------------] (About halfway to Jada, the party stops moving) Alf: Let's take a break here. L'Arc: But we just got started! Alf: We have a lady with us. We have to be aware of her needs, you see. Ryfia: Thank you, Alf, but I'm fine. L'Arc: Pfft. I guess she's still recovering from her last journey. Oh, uh, I forgot to mention it, but a Turemilian shipwreck was sighted on the eastern coast. Alf: Interesting! I should probably have that investigated. Ryfia: Umm... that might be my ship. L'Arc: Your ship?! Whaddya mean? Ryfia: My home was attacked by strange people. A servant helped me escape and I was able to reach the Empire by ship. But then we were attacked by Feldragons as we approached the coast. Alf: Did the Feldragons get to the others? Ryfia: ...Yes. There were just too many. L'Arc: And after that was when you met me in the forest. What's with this talk of servants and your home under attack? Just who are you? Ryfia: I'm a Diva. Alf: Huh?! L'Arc: Yeah, you said that earlier, but what is a Diva? Alf: You don't know, L'Arc? A Diva is a priestess of the Republic's North Noireism. L'Arc: A North Noire priestess? That makes you someone special! No wonder you keep spouting all that weirdo stuff. Alf: L'Arc! How many times do I have to tell you? Don't talk like that! Ryfia: Ha ha ha! (The party arrives in Jada) Ryfia: Is this Jada? L'Arc: Yep. This is where you wanted to go. Ryfia: What's that tower? Alf: That's Dragon Prison. The Empire is eternally short on Ray, so we keep a Rogress imprisoned in there. Ryfia: Ray? What is that? L'Arc: Are you that dumb?! Ray is the energy that supports everything! Using magic, flying a Lightship... Everything needs Ray. Even little kids know that! Ryfia: Wow! Really? L'Arc: Agh! I just want to... Nngh! Alf: L'Arc, you're not really in a position to be lecturing her about ignorance. You didn't know about Divas, right? Ryfia: Why did Ray shortages require you to capture and keep a Rogress? Rogress are ancestors of the god Eesa. Capturing one of them is very dangerous. Alf: Rogress emit an unlimited amount of Ray. There may be a lot of danger involved, but we need Ray if the Empire is to survive. There's really no other way. L'Arc: If you're gonna complain, save it for those Olquinian fanatics! Those jerks use machines to split the Ray Stream and take the world's Ray all for themselves... Thus leaving our cities without power. Ryfia: Olquinians? They're from Olquina, to the south, right? But... are you serious? I've never heard of a Ray shortage in the Republic! Alf: I've heard the Republic has enough Ray because the Divas are able to call Rogress with their Hymns. Ryfia: Really?! I never heard of that before! L'Arc: Hah! Is she REALLY a Diva?! Alf: Um, I think so... Well, I think we should go and greet the commander of the forces. L'Arc: Yeah, you're right. I think the commander's name was... Alf: Clyde. He used to be captain of the Palace Guard. L'Arc: Ah yeah... That old guy's stationed here? Alf: Would you mind coming with us, Ryfia? I can't be leaving a Diva from the Republic alone to walk these streets. Ryfia: Of course I'll go with you. (The party heads for Military HQ. Outside of the HQ, a soldier confronts a blue-cloaked man) Soldier: You're Mr. Rastan, right? Someone as skilled as you, you'd be a legionnaire in no time flat. Rastan: I'm just trying to find somebody. Soldier: Oh. Well, if you change your mind, you know where to find us. (Rastan leaves the HQ entrance as L'Arc, Ryfia and Alf are approaching it. Rastan notices the Dragon Gem on Ryfia's right thigh. The party stops walking) Ryfia: What is it? Rastan: ...Sorry. Excuse me. (Rastan leaves) Alf: He looks like a traveling mercenary. L'Arc: Maybe. Hey Ryfia, do you know that man? Ryfia: No. I don't think so... none of my servants look like him. L'Arc: Hmph. I wonder what his problem is? Alf: Maybe he mistook her for someone he knew. L'Arc: Yeah, probably. (The party is about to enter the HQ when a Captain confronts them) Captain: Halt! Show me your identifica... Ah! Prince Alf?! Alf: I'd like to meet with General Clyde. Is that okay? Captain: Oh, of course! Please follow me. Alf: Oh, that's okay. I know my way around. You can remain at your post. Captain: Y-Yes, sir! (They enter the HQ and run into a red-haired man in the hallway) Man: Hey, watch where you're going, you idiot! L'Arc: I'm sorry, idiot? Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Huh? Alf: Long time no see, Niko. Niko: Whoa! Hey, Prince Alf! And... and Mr. L'Arc? I heard you were killed hunting Feldragons. L'Arc: Huh? Say that one more time, I dare you! Niko: Ahh, nothing, nothing. Just a little joke. Ha ha... Anyway! Great work on the Feldragons! Oh wow! Only Mr. L'Arc would be able to come through that without even a scratch! L'Arc: Whadaya mean by that...? Niko: And umm... you've come with Prince Alf to report your victory to the General? Alf: Yes. Something like that. Niko: And, er, the young lady is...? Ryfia: I'm Ryfia. Alf: She's a guest from the Republic. Niko: The Republic? No way! Ryfia: ...No way? L'Arc: Uh... it's another way to say, "Can it really be true?" Ryfia: Oh, I see. Ah... Yes way. Niko: Ah. Ha ha ha! L'Arc: So, Alf. Are we gonna meet old man Clyde, or not? Niko: Ah, sorry for keeping you here. I guess I'll be on my way. Nice to meet you all! (Niko leaves) Ryfia: Is he L'Arc's servant? L'Arc: Not my servant. More like... um. Alf: He's very attached to L'Arc. Kinda like a sidekick. L'Arc: Sidekick?! What are you talking about? He's older than I am! Did you see how amazed he was that I'm still alive? (The party enters the Command Room and meets General Clyde) Clyde: Well! If it isn't Prince Alf himself! Alf: Clyde! It's good to see you again. Clyde: I've heard tell of you showing those Feldragons a thing or two! Taking on an entire pack of Feldragons and securing a glorious victory! Heavens be! Lord Mahat and Prince Weiss must be overjoyed! Alf: Ha ha! I see you still like to exaggerate things, Clyde. Clyde: And who is that standing next to you? Why, I do believe it's First Sergeant L'Arc Bright Lagoon! I heard you'd gone missing during the Feldragon hunt, but it looks like you've made it out in one piece. L'Arc: General Clyde... Prince Alf rescued me after I was separated from my unit during the fighting. Clyde: He acted alone? My prince, I understand you care for your troops. But you place the Empire's future in peril... Alf: My elder brother is the Empire's future. I am merely helping him in his endeavors. Clyde: But Sir Alf, you are the only one to bear the blood of Empress Gruene. Alf: Enough, Clyde! My brother is the first successor to the throne. Clyde: Yes, my lord. Please forgive me. Alf: Actually, Clyde, I'm here to ask your advice about this girl, Ryfia... (Niko appears) Niko: G-General! Big, big, very big trouble! Clyde: Tell me! Niko: M-M-M-Monsters! They're swarming the town! Clyde: That's impossible! What happened to our barrier?! Niko: I guess it wasn't strong enough... L'Arc: Which means it could be the work of a non-monster force. Alf: Clyde! Send the troops to defend the town! (L'Arc begins to leave) Niko: Mr. L'Arc! Where are you going?! L'Arc: To fend off the monsters! Alf: I'm coming too! Clyde: Your Highness, it's too dangerous! Alf: I belong to the army too. I cannot stand by and watch my subjects get slaughtered! Don't worry about me, Clyde. Just get your troops into action! Clyde: As... As you wish! (Clyde leaves) L'Arc: Ryfia, you're staying here! Ryfia: Why? L'Arc: Why? Because it's super dangerous! Don't move! Stay here! Niko, you're coming with me! Niko: Uh...? You want me with you, too...? L'Arc: Well, what do you think? You're a soldier of the Empire, aren't you? Niko: Y-Yes, technically speaking... But I'm more the support-from-behind type... L'Arc: Huh? Alf: L'Arc! We have to go before it's too late! L'Arc: Fine, you stay here and protect Ryfia! Got it?! Niko: No way! I'm so lucky! ... Err, I mean, yes sir! She's in good hands, trust me! L'Arc: Make up your mind, man... (Ryfia leaves the party. L'Arc and Alf leave the HQ and encounter monsters) Alf: They've already gotten this far in? L'Arc: They've broken right through the entrance. What are the guards doing?! (A monster approaches them) L'Arc: Hey, you better keep up! Alf: I'm right behind you. (They battle the monsters and defeat them) Alf: What should we do, L'Arc? If they've already broken through the entrance... L'Arc: Let Clyde's troops defend the inside of the town. Our job will be to secure the entrance. Alf: Okay. Let's go. (They march toward the entrance to the town, defeating monsters along the way. They are surprised to discover all of the soldiers defeated) Alf: L'Arc! Huh... (Rastan is fighting a purple-haired man. He'll be referred to as a Deathchanter) L'Arc: That guy... (Rastan blocks the Deathchanter's purple energy blasts. He strikes back but the Deathchanter dodges his attack) Deathchanter: Hmph. You're a tough one. Rastan: You... You're one of the Divine Race. One of Imaginal's pets...? Deathchanter: Me? Bwahahaha! You really amuse me, old man! You'll be begging me for mercy... I summon you, in the name of Chaos! (He summons several Slave Bones) Deathchanter: Now, kill him! (He begins to leave as the Slave Bones walk toward Rastan) Rastan: Wait! (He battles the monsters. L'Arc and Alf watch nearby) Alf: L'Arc, we have to help! L'Arc: You got it! Hang on, old man, we're coming! (They rush into battle alongside Rastan. They defeat the monsters) Alf: It would appear you didn't need our help. Rastan: Not true. L'Arc: Who was that guy? Rastan: What indeed? Whoever he was, he had power over the undead. L'Arc: What did you call him? One of the Divine Race or something? Rastan: Enough talk! Here they come! L'Arc: Eh! (They battle more monsters) Alf: ...Is that the last of them? L'Arc: I hope so. Rastan: ... (Rastan examines an alleyway) LSQ: Aghh! (Niko was in the alleyway) L'Arc: Niko?! Niko: Mr. L'Arc! Help! Help! Rastan: You know him? Alf: He's a friend. Niko: You saved me! Hey, man! Where are you pointing that weapon? You better say sorr... (L'Arc hits Niko) Niko: Eeeeek! L'Arc: ...What are you doing here, Niko? Niko: Well, um... L'Arc: Why are you alone? Where is Ryfia? Niko: Ah... Mr. L'Arc... the monsters... L'Arc: Answer me now! Niko: I'm sorry! We were separated... Alf: What? Niko: But I'm telling you, it was all her fault! She said something about Simmah calling her, then she wandered off towards Dragon Prison... L'Arc: So what are you doing here? Niko: Well, uhh, you see... There's a lot of monsters over there, so... L'Arc: Well, you better go after her, you stupid numbskull! Niko: W-wait! Now I r-remember! I came here for your help, Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: Is that your lousy attempt at an excuse?! Alf: Come on, L'Arc! There's no time to pick on Niko right now! We've got to find Ryfia! L'Arc: But what about the monsters here? Rastan: Don't worry. I can handle them. L'Arc: It sure looks that way! Thanks. C'mon we're going! Niko: Eh? Me too? L'Arc: Of course, you too! Now move it! Niko: Er... Ha ha! Of course. Right by your side, man! (Niko joins the party. The party sets out towards Dragon Prison, defeating monsters along the way. Meanwhile, at Dragon Prison) Deathchanter: Well well, Imaginal Diva! I've finally found you! Ryfia: It's you! You're the one who attacked the Singing Ministry and killed my mother! Deathchanter: It was she who started it, was it not? (L'Arc, Alf and Niko arrive) Deathchanter: Hmph! Those pests you again... L'Arc: If there's a pest here, it's you! Alf: What kind of coward attacks innocent women? Niko: Y-yeah! Coward! Deathchanter: Silence! Ignorant pests! (They fight and defeat the Deathchanter) Niko: Hah! Looks like you're all talk! You're nothing but a bug for Mr. L'Arc to quash! Let me put an end to your miserable existence! L'Arc: Uh, hey... (The Deathchanter summons more Slave Bones) L'Arc: What the...? (More Slave Bones appear) Deathchanter: Hah hah...! Bwa hah hah hah! (He stands up) Deathchanter: Did you really think you could beat me that easily?!? I was merely playing with you! Niko: Aagh! Help me! I don't wanna diiie! Help me, Mr. L'Arc! (Ryfia begins singing. The Slave Bones disappear. Niko runs away) Deathchanter: ...You live up to your reputation, Diva. Hymns aren't to be trifled with. (He summons more Slave Bones) Deathchanter: But even you will have trouble against this many opponents! (More Slave Bones appear) Deathchanter: There's more where they came from! What do you think you're going to do now, girl? L'Arc: Even with Ryfia, that's too many for the three of us... Alf: Well, I guess we have no choice. (L'Arc, Alf and Ryfia run toward Dragon Prison. Alf dispels the barrier) L'Arc: Hey! If we go in there without the Emperor's permission... Alf: We're all going to be dead if we don't! Hurry up and get in there, you two! Now! Move it! (They enter Dragon Prison) L'Arc: Hey! Ryfia! What do you think you're doing in here? I told you to stay put! Ryfia: I'm sorry, but I really... I just had to. I had to come to Dragon Prison. L'Arc: No! No you didn't! Don't give me your excuses! Alf: L'Arc, you don't have to shout like that... L'Arc: What if you'd been killed? Do you think that'd please your mother? Well? Do you?! Ryfia: You're scary sometimes... but I know you mean well. L'Arc: Huh? (They hear banging on the door) Alf: They're trying to break through the door! I don't know how long it will keep them out. Ryfia: Won't that seal protect the door? Alf: That only keeps non-Royal Family out. It doesn't make the door any stronger! It's just a simple magic seal. The door will open easily if the spell is broken. Hopefully Niko will have sent for help by then! L'Arc: We're doomed if we rely on him. He's probably fleeing Jada as fast as he can as we speak. Ryfia: Well... let's meet Simmah, then. L'Arc: Simmah? Alf: Yes. That's the name of the Rogress trapped in here. Ryfia: That's why I came here. To find Simmah. Mother said that Simmah would be able to guide me. Alf: How can Simmah guide you...? L'Arc: There's no time for questions now! Unless anyone has a better idea, I say we meet up with this Simmah. Alf: But we need my father's permission to meet with Simmah... L'Arc: You think that matters now? Alf: ...I guess you're right, at that. We might as well... (The party comes upon a lift nearby) L'Arc: Oh no! It won't move! Hey Alf! What's going on here? Alf: The Dragon Prison was sealed, so the supply of Ray inside the building has been shut off. Ryfia: What should we do? Alf: I think somewhere on this floor, there's a device that controls the supply of Ray... L'Arc: Okay. Let's go look for it. (They find the device. The doors to the lift open) L'Arc: We should be able to use that lift now. Alf: Simmah is in the basement. Let's go down in the lift! (They ride the lift down to the basement. They stop near the door at the end of the hall. The Deathchanter is at the entrance to the lift in the opposite end of the hallway) Deathchanter: ...So, we meet again. L'Arc: Oh no! They've already broken through the door! Alf: Leave this to me. L'Arc: Have you lost your mind? You're an Imperial prince! Alf: That I am! And the barriers here can only be activated by someone from the Imperial Household! You go ahead and meet with Simmah. I'll be back once I've got the barriers activated. That'll give us more time. L'Arc: ...Fine. Don't do anything stupid! C'mon, Ryfia! Ryfia: Okay... I'm coming! (L'Arc and Ryfia ride another lift down to the next lowest floor. They find Simmah) L'Arc: SO that thing is Simmah the Rogress? Ryfia: Simmah... I am the Imaginal Diva. My mother instructed me to find you. She said you would be able to help me on my quest... Simmah: Ryfia... Are you the one chosen by Imaginal? Ryfia: Oh... Simmah, how do you know my name? (Alf arrives) Alf: It's no use! The barriers won't hold much longer! L'Arc: Hey, Simmah there's some crazy Deathchanter attacking this place! Can you do something about him for us? Simmah: ...I only answer to Eesa. I cannot do anything to aid you. L'Arc: Geez! You're just a big waste of space! Alf, if we have to face them here... (Purple energy blasts begin to rain from the sky) L'Arc: Look out! (L'Arc gets Ryfia out of the way. They hold hands. Their hands begin to flash a multicolored light, which get stronger until energy spirals around their bodies) L'Arc: What's that sound? ...And that power? Ryfia: The other half of my sound... Are you a Child of Eesa? L'Arc: Child of... Eesa? Ryfia: I was... I was... Born to meet you. L'Arc: Ryfia, what are you talking about? Ryfia: It is the destiny of the Imaginal Diva to guide a Child of Eesa. Please, lend me your strength. Please... L'Arc: Uh... um... Ryfia: Thank you. (Ryfia begins to sing the hymn she sang when the Feldragon died. She kisses L'Arc's forehead and a blue mark flashes on his head briefly. L'Arc and Simmah appear in a void, alone) L'Arc: W-Wha?! What the heck is going on? Simmah: Eesa's Code is inscribed within the Child of Eesa. You have chosen Imaginal's Law. L'Arc: Imaginal's Law? What nonsense is this? Simmah: Imaginal's Law is the continued evolution of the human race. Child of Eesa, do you have need of my power: the Logos of "deliverance"? L'Arc: I don't know what you're talking about, but will it help me to defeat my enemies? Simmah: If a Child of Eesa wills it this, so shall it be. L'Arc: Then I'll take it! Simmah: So be it. (Simmah glows and disappears. A grey crystal-like object appears. L'Arc takes it and it disappears. The blue mark from earlier appears on L'Arc's hand. L'Arc looks at it in awe. He appears back in the hallway with Ryfia and Alf) L'Arc: What was that? Alf: Look out, you two! (The Deathchanter appears) Deathchanter: Curses! Who would've thought that a Diva would find the Child of Eesa... If he's formed a pact with the Rogress, I'll just have to kill the Child of Eesa and start over again. L'Arc: What're you raving about, you crazed loon? You're really making me mad now! Bring it on, you pasty-faced goon! (The party battles the Deathchanter. About halfway through the battle) Deathchanter: Let's finish this, shall we? L'Arc: Grr, could this be it... Alf: L'Arc:?! L'Arc: Huh...? What's going on... I can feel my power rising... Deathchanter: ?! L'Arc: This must be the power of the Rogress... Is Simmah trying to sync with me...? (L'Arc summons Simmah and he attacks the Deathchanter to defeat him) Deathchanter: How could that Rogress give him so much power?! L'Arc: Are you running away?! Deathchanter: Sorry to disappoint, but unlike you, I prefer brains over brawn! But don't worry! I'll be back to kill you later! (The Deathchanter flees) L'Arc: Heh! ...Who was that jerk? And what just happened, anyway? Alf: I don't know... I didn't think Simmah would just disappear like that. Ryfia: Simmah formed a pact with L'Arc. Now he will always be with him. Alf: That's going to cause some problems if it's true! Ryfia: Why? L'Arc: Simmah was the only source of the Empire's Ray. Without the Rogress, the Empire no longer has an energy supply! Ryfia: Oh... Alf: We do have reserves... but they won't last very long. First things first, we have to report about this to General Clyde. L'Arc: Yeah... You're right. (The party leaves Dragon Prison) Ryfia: I hope the town is all right. L'Arc: If that guy's just after you, he probably didn't touch the town... I hope. Alf: Let's report the situation to Clyde and head back to Royal City. If we don't get word out about the Ray supply, things are going to get pretty rough around here. (The party heads back to the Command Room in the Military HQ and talks to Clyde) Clyde: Your Highness! You're safe! Ohh, I feared the worst! I could find no sign of you anywhere! Alf: How is the town? Clyde: We were able to keep damage to a minimum thanks to the aid of Rastan, a traveling mercenary. L'Arc: Oh yeah! Him! Where is Rastan now? Clyde: He's chasing down the remaining monsters. I'm worried, though. It seemed like the enemy was focusing their attack on Dragon Prison. Alf: Oh, uh, about that... (He tells Clyde about the events that happened in Dragon Prison) Clyde: What? The Rogress disappeared when they broke the seal on the door?! Then that means we've lost our only source of Ray! Alf: I'm afraid that's right. As long as Olquina continues to block the Ray Stream, our Empire will face serious energy shortages! Ryfia: How is Olquina able to control the Ray Stream for themselves? Clyde: In the Dragon Descent 1000 years ago, the Skywalk fell to the earth. It is said that the Skywalk had the ability to siphon and disperse Ray. Scholars have determined this to be the cause of the Ray Stream loss. Alf: Clyde, I want nothing to be said of what has happened here. Clyde: But my Prince... Alf: I will inform the Emperor of this... I must take full responsibility for this dilemma. Clyde: B-But, First Sergeant Lagoon! You were with the Prince! How could you let this happen?! L'Arc: I'm sorry, General. Clyde: And you... Ryfia, right? Am I to believe that bandits were chasing you? What are we going to do about this?! Alf: Clyde! Leave them alone! I am the one to blame here! Clyde: My prince, as commander of the Imperial troops stationed here... I beg you to please forgive my inadequate leadership. (The party leaves the HQ) L'Arc: Old man Clyde was really furious! Guess I can't blame him... Ryfia: ...I'm so sorry. Alf: Ryfia, tell me what happened back in Dragon Prison. You said something about a pact? Ryfia: I was sent to find the Child of Eesa. My mother said that Simmah would be able to lead me to the right path. L'Arc: Child of Eesa? This has something to do with the god, Eesa? Ryfia: Yes! The man who uses Law to bring understanding to the world. That's you, L'Arc! L'Arc: ...Pfft! That's stupid! I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about! Alf: ...Indeed. What we do know is that the Rogress vanished from Dragon Prison just after making a pact with you. L'Arc: Tell me Ryfia, can we bring Simmah back? Ryfia: No. It doesn't work that way. L'Arc: No way... Ryfia: Yes way. L'Arc: Enough! Let's get to Royal City! Ryfia: You're going to Royal City? L'Arc: And you're coming, too! Ryfia: Wherever you go, I will follow. You did choose me, after all. L'Arc/Alf: ... Ryfia: All right. So where is Royal City? Alf: Southeast of here. Let's go. L'Arc: ...Bleh! This is giving me a headache! Ryfia: L'Arc! Are you okay? Shall I get you a doctor? L'Arc: It's just a figure of speech! Give me a break, Ryfia! (The party leaves Jada and sets out for Diamant Royal City) [-------------------------------] [Diamant first visit-------(DFV)] [-------------------------------] (The party enters Diamant Royal City. They come to the Fountain Square area of the city) ?????: Don't move! (They are greeted by a female soldier, Niko, and an attendant) Alf: General Freya! Freya: Prince Alfonse... The Dragon Prison seal... It was broken! Alf: How did you know that? Freya: Corporal Niko Bennex reported the incident. L'Arc: You little snitch, Niko! Ryfia: Alf only broke the Dragon Prison seal so that he could save me. It is my fault, not his. Please don't blame him. Freya: It is only the Emperor or his agents that have the authority to break that seal. In the Meridian Bible, it is inscribed as law. Alf: I'm the one who broke the law. You can arrest me... leave them out of this. Freya: Prince Weiss has ordered the arrest of all those involved. Arrest all three of them! (The party is arrested and brought to Prince Weiss' throne hall. L'Arc and Ryfia are hand-cuffed) Weiss: Lord Mahat has been poisoned, or somesuch. He is not feeling well. I will deal with you in his place. Alf: Yes brother. Weiss: Looking good, L'Arc. Especially for a man who just stole our Rogress. L'Arc: Uh... Weiss: Hmm? Is there something you'd like to say? Go ahead. You may speak. L'Arc: What happened with Simmah was beyond our control... Weiss: I don't care. L'Arc: ...! Alf: Brother, I thought I explained this to you! L'Arc wasn't trying to steal Simmah from Dragon Prison. Weiss: Silence, Alf! I don't remember asking you. Alf: Please forgive me. Weiss: What matters now is that our Rogress is gone. Ryfia: He's not. He forged a bond with L'Arc, the Child of Eesa. (Weiss throws a sword at Ryfia that misses her) Weiss: You were either too slow to react, or you've really got some guts. L'Arc: Your Highness! What are you doing? Weiss: Have you heard of the Skywalk that fell in Olquina? L'Arc: Er, yes... Weiss: Those Olquinian fanatics use that to siphon the Ray Stream. They're the culprits here. We need to stop the Skywalk, or else our Ray-starved Empire will be no more. (An Imperial PM walks over and faces L'Arc and Ryfia) Imperial PM: Olquina has refused our requests to deactivate the Skywalk. They claim it's their historical right. Consequently, we will dispatch a special team to disable the Skywalk. By Imperial command of the Crown Prince... Legionnaire L'Arc Bright Lagoon will lead the operation. You are to infiltrate the Olquina capital and render the Skywalk completely inoperational. L'Arc: ... Imperial PM: First Sergeant Lagoon will be entrusted with choosing his partners. Furthermore, the Republican Diva must accompany the force. That is all. Ryfia: Me...? L'Arc: ... Weiss: You seem dissatisfied. You are hardly able to refuse. Under normal circumstances, you and your family would be executed. You'll receive your contract directly from me. See me in my office after this. (Weiss and the Imperial PM leave) Alf: Are you all right, L'Arc? L'Arc: Alf, what's going on? Why does Ryfia have to be involved? Alf: I don't know. What is my brother thinking...? Ryfia: As long as I'm with you L'Arc, I'll go anywhere I'm asked! L'Arc: ...Okay. I guess I'll go see Sir Weiss. Alf: I'll go with you. If things go wrong, it'll lead to war. I need to know what my brother wants. (They leave the throne hall and meet Weiss in his office) Weiss: Ah, there you are. Here is your contract. What, are you still upset? I trust that money is not the issue here. L'Arc: I'm grateful for that, sir, but I didn't steal the Rogress. Weiss: Do you not understand the position you are in? You should face the death penalty for your crimes! But instead, all can be forgiven with just one mission! You really can't complain... Actually, you should be thanking me! It's a great privilege for a lowly legionnaire to have the honor of visiting the Crown Prince's office. L'Arc: Yes, sir. Weiss: You have a gift for getting on my nerves, you know... I never dreamed that you would bring a disgusting North Noireist Diva here with you! Alf: Weiss! Where are your manners?! Weiss: ...Hmph! L'Arc: Sir Weiss, why must the "disgusting Diva" accompany me on this mission? Weiss: There are Rogress dwelling within that wretched Skywalk. They're kept there by the Olquinian Divas. Those Olquina scum place all their faith in them! To disable the Skywalk, you must quell them first. It will not be an easy task... For normal people. that is. Alf: So L'Arc needs to neutralize the Olquina Rogress by binding with it like he did with Simmah? Weiss: Yes. I understand that L'Arc managed the feat earlier, Alfonse. Do you believe you can do that without Ryfia's help? L'Arc: You expect me to know? Pacts, bonds, the Child of Eesa... I have no clue what's going on! Weiss: Well, exactly! That's why I ordered Ryfia to accompany you. L'Arc: Ugh! I'm getting sick of this! What exactly does bonding with a Rogress mean, anyway? Ryfia: After the Child of Eesa chooses a Law, the Rogress' power allows him to understand how the world works. L'Arc: But I don't even know what a Child of Eesa is! Weiss: The god Eesa controls the world from the Holy Land of Noire. Alf: I know that already. But what does that have to do with L'Arc being the child of Eesa? Weiss: So are you Eesa's blood relative, or just an agent? I wish this was all clearer... L'Arc: Do I look like some kind of divine agent to you? Weiss: Ryfia. is it true that L'Arc already chose Imaginal's Law? Ryfia: Yes. Weiss: "Oh ye Ruler, chooseth thy Law. Take from it a new Law, inviting understanding and reason... Thus creating innovation unto the world." In other words, the creation of a new country! L'Arc: What was that? Alf: A passage from the introduction of the Meridian Bible. L'Arc: The Meridian Bible? The origin of the Empire's governing laws? Sounds pretty abstract! Alf: Indeed. the introduction is. Weiss: L'Arc, your fate is in the hands of things of which you have no comprehension. L'Arc: Sir Weiss! If you know anything, please tell me! Weiss: ...I will. But not until after you've completed this mission. Then we will know if you are truly the Child of Eesa. Alf: Weiss, wait! This can only lead to conflict! Weiss: Indeed. May it come quickly. Alf: Weiss, if we end up in a war, it will be our subjects who suffer the most. Weiss: And they do not suffer now from Olquina's meddling with the Ray Stream? Alf: Surely, with the right diplomacy... Weiss: I'm afraid the time for negotiating disappeared with Simmah. Thanks to you rather carelessly breaking the seal at Dragon Prison, I should add. Alf: But that's... Weiss: If you're so worried about conflict, then why don't you join L'Arc on his mission? Alf: Do I have permission to do so? Weiss: Ha ha ha! Even if I gave you permission, I doubt Father would ever allow it. Neither would the nobles or commoners hoping you'll be the next emperor. Enough of this! Begone! (The party leaves the office) L'Arc: I have absolutely no idea what's gong on! Alf: It looks like my brother knows what Ryfia is trying to do... Ryfia: I am merely guiding the Child of Eesa. L'Arc: I'm sure you are. Once this mission is over, we'll make Sir Weiss tell us everything he knows! Alf: Have you even tried to think any of this over? L'Arc: I wouldn't know where to start! The important thing here is the money I'm getting. Once I complete this mission in Antrax, I'll have as much cash as I could ever want! Ryfia: I'll help you too. L'Arc: ...Oh, right! I have to bring her along, too! Hmm... I wonder who I should choose for the group? Alf: How about we think it over after getting back to your house? I bet your mother and Master Zamuel are worried... to say nothing of Adele, too. L'Arc: ...I guess so. C'mon, Ryfia. We're going home. Ryfia: To the Republic? L'Arc: No, to my home. I'm staying at Zamuel's Martial Arts school in the castle town. I'll set it up so that you can stay there, too. Alf: ! Ryfia: With you? L'Arc: If you've got a problem with that, I could ask Alf... Ryfia: No, no! I'm happy this way. L'Arc: ...Great. Then, let's go. Alf: Wait! I'm coming, too! I should pay my respects to Master Zamuel. L'Arc: ...Really? Well, okay. (The party leaves the hall to the office) Niko: Mr. L'Arc! Help me! (Niko is surrounded by guards and General Freya) Freya: My prince! Alf: Freya, please. L'Arc: Prince Alf's trying to keep a low profile. Freya: Do you need guards to escort you? Alf: Not for this trip, no. Besides, I've got L'Arc here. Freya: My prince, I don't know if you should be so familiar with a common legionnaire. Alf: L'Arc is a very dear friend to me. Niko: Look, forget about that! Sir Alf, I need your help! They're taking me to the stockade! Ryfia: Stock...ade? L'Arc: It's like a prison. Alf: Why is Niko being taken there? Freya: He fled from Dragon Prison, my prince, thus deserting his duty. L'Arc: Heh, I guess you're right. I forgot about that. Niko: It's all lies, Mr. L'Arc! I went to get help, that's it! L'Arc: Pfft! Not only did you run out on us, but you betrayed us all to Weiss! Some jail time could do you good! Niko: Mr. L'Arc... Freya: By your leave, my Prince. (Freya leaves with Niko and the guards) Alf: Maybe we should have helped him. L'Arc: Nah. He had it coming. Ryfia: Did Niko do something wrong? L'Arc: He abandoned the Prince, so he's being punished for it. Let's get going. (They leave the castle and head to L'Arc's home. While walking down the stairs heading the lift to Upper Zone, the party sees two women being confronted my two men) Saura: You tricked us! Thug 1: How can ya say that? We was just helping ya out. Thug 2: In da Meridian Empire, we follows da South Noireism religion, we does. Yous pagans coulda been skewered by that nasty crown prince. Luze: We are Noireist preachers. Noireists come from South Noire. We are all of Eesa's flock. Thug 1: Yeah, yeah. Youse can teach us all abouts it. Harr harr harr! Thug 2: This place ain't no good for ya. We's gonna go someplace quieter. (The thugs grabs Luze) Luze: Stop! Please! Alf: L'Arc! We have to help them! I can't stand by while women are being attacked. Ryfia: It is important for us to protect the preachers. L'Arc: ...Fine, fine! Protect the weak, blah blah. (The party rushes into the fray) Saura: Insolence! Take your hands off Luze! Thug 1: Ow! Thug 2: Stupid girl... We was treatin' ya nicely. Now look whatcha gone and done! Luze: Saura! (The party hits the thugs) Thug 2: Aghh!! Thug 1: W-What the?! Alf: These people are visiting Royal City. I don't appreciate this kind of treatment. Thug 2: I don't remember askin' you, man! Thug 1: Youse gonna be sorry if ya get in tha way! L'Arc: ...Pfft! Hope you like being splattered all over the ground! Thug 1: Gahh! We gotsta get outta 'ere! Thug 2: Whoahhh! (The thugs flee) Saura: Umm... Thank you for helping us! Alf: No thanks are necessary. I'm glad you're safe. L'Arc: What was that all about? Saura: We were mistaken for Olquinians and refused board at an inn. They summoned the town guard. Luze: Then those two said they'd show us a nicer inn... and they wouldn't take no for an answer. L'Arc: I've heard about bandits kidnapping women to sell later. I imagine that's what they had planned for you two. Ryfia: Are people of other religions not allowed to use inns? I'm North Noireist, but I still stayed in one. Alf: No, no, it doesn't work that way. L'Arc: Maybe not, but Olquinians getting the cold shoulder sure isn't anything new around here. Saura: Olquinians believe that prayer and martyrdom guarantee glory in the afterlife. Not everyone agrees. Luze: Are you a North Noireist Diva? Ryfia: Yes, I am. Luze: That's strange. I wonder why there are two of you? L'Arc: Two? Hey, how do you know about Ryfia? Saura: We've been to Benetnasch to preach the sacred word. Luze: Choosing one thing means that something else must be forgone. It matters not what our soul hopes for. What is chosen survives... What is not, dies. Please do not forget this. Saura: Luze... Luze: Come, Saura. Shall we go? L'Arc: Whoa! Wait a sec... (Saura and Luze leave) Alf: Did you have something you wanted to say? L'Arc: Man, why do religious people all have to be so weird? Ryfia: ! (The party enters the Upper Zone and heads toward Zamuel's Martial Arts school. They enter the front yard of the school and meet Adele. She waves to them as they approach) Adele: L'Arc! Oh, and Alf too! Welcome home! L'Arc: It's good to be back. How's Mom's condition? Adele: Mmm... But she's been worrying about you. We received a message that you'd been arrested... Alf: I'm sorry. It was all because of me. It's my fault. I wasn't able to keep him out of trouble. Adele: You can apologize to Auntie, if you must. Alf: Heh heh. I suppose so. L'Arc: Ahh, don't sweat it. It wasn't your fault. Anyway, Adele, where's Zamuel? Adele: He's out right now. Did you need something? L'Arc: Yeah. I just wanted to let him know that I'll be going away on a mission for a while. Adele: ...Oh? Really? For how long? L'Arc: Who knows? Adele: Huh? Who knows...? L'Arc, who's this? L'Arc: Oh yeah. She's Ryfia. It's a long story, but she's coming with us. Can you let her stay here until we leave? Ryfia: I'm Ryfia. Nice to meet you. L'Arc: This contract is gonna be huge. I'll be rolling in it, I promise! That'll take care of all the debts. Well, I'm gonna go see Mom. (L'Arc and Ryfia head for L'Arc's house) Adele: She's... going to be traveling with L'Arc too? Alf: Well, yes... Alf: But Adele, L'Arc was ordered to take her, you see. L'Arc: Hey, Alf! Come say hello to Mom! Alf: I'll be right there! Listen, Adele. There's nothing to worry about. They're not together. Adele: Eh, w-whoa! What're you talking about, Alf?! Hey, Alf... Don't get ahead of yourself. It's... it's nothing like that at all! L'Arc: Alf! Adele: Look, now L'Arc is getting upset. Better hurry up! Alf: Oh alright. (Alf rejoins L'Arc) Adele: L'Arc... (The party enters L'Arc's house and talks to his mother, Elena) Elena: L'Arc! I was so worried! L'Arc: ...Sorry, Mom. Alf: My sincerest apologies for worrying you, Elena. Elena: Prince Alf! Alf: No, no, no need to get up for me! Not in your condition. Elena: Please forgive my directness... But why did Prince Weiss arrest L'Arc, anyway? L'Arc: Oh, that's no big deal. I got a new mission out of it in the end. Elena: Oh... I see. Say, who's the young lady behind you? L'Arc: Ah, She's, er, working for me. Sir Weiss ordered her on the mission with me. Ryfia: I'm working for you? L'Arc: Just go along with it, okay? How else are we gonna explain it? Ryfia: Nice to meet you, Elena. I'm working for L'Arc. L'Arc: Don't you have a name? Ryfia: Oh! Sorry! I'm Ryfia. I'm a Diva from the Turemilian Republic. Alf: Ryfia... Perhaps you should learn not to be quite so forthcoming with that information. L'Arc: Yeah. This ain't the Republic! It might be best to keep your identity a secret when traveling abroad. Ryfia: Really? I hadn't really thought about it like that. Thank you, you two. Elena: You're a very interesting young girl, Ryfia. I hope you won't worry too much about me. L'Arc can be quite uncivilized, but please look after him. Ryfia: Yes, ma'am. I think L'Arc is very gentle actually. Elena: Oh my... L'Arc: Hey! Who're you callin' gentle?! Alf: Well, I must be off. Elena, please take care of yourself. L'Arc: Oh, sure. See you when I'm back. Ryfia: Wait a minute, L'Arc! Nice to meet you, Elena. Goodbye! (Outside of L'Arc's house...) Alf: It's a pity I wasn't able to meet Master Zamuel. Ryfia: What is he a master of? L'Arc: Swordfighting. He taught us. You thought he was a math teacher or something? Alf: I met L'Arc when Master Zamuel was invited to the castle. Ryfia: Oh, I didn't know about that. L'Arc: Alf, I almost forgot. Could you have the contract money from the Feldragon hunt sent to the doctor? Ryfia: The doctor? L'Arc: You saw my mom, didn't you? She's... sick. Alf: L'Arc wanted to create his own mercenary outfit... But he became a legionnaire in order to pay for his mother's treatment. L'Arc: Alf, I didn't ask you to give her the whole story... Alf: Sorry, I'll take care of the contract money for you, okay? See you later. You'll hear from the army tomorrow about the Antrax mission. (Alf leaves the party) L'Arc: Antrax, eh...? Ryfia: ... L'Arc: Well I've already introduced you to Adele. So make yourself at home. Ryfia: What are you going to do? L'Arc: Well, I'll hang around for a bit, I guess. Then I'll go to bed once I get tired. Ryfia: Okay. I'll come with you. L'Arc: Why? Ryfia: Because I want to be with you. L'Arc: Huh?! Ryfia: I've finally found the Child of Eesa. I wouldn't dream of parting ways with you now. L'Arc: Ugh, not that again... On second thought, maybe I'll just go to bed now. (L'Arc and Ryfia go back into L'Arc's house and visit his bed) L'Arc: ...Hey. Ryfia: ! L'Arc: I'm going to sleep now. Ryfia: Okay. Good night. L'Arc: Uh... how long were you planning on being here? Ryfia: Aren't I allowed to be here? I want to sleep with you, L'Arc. L'Arc: W-What?! How am I supposed to get any sleep with you here?! Ryfia: Hmm... I guess you're right. I wonder where I should sleep? L'Arc: Go ask Adele! Ryfia: L'Arc, why are you angry? L'Arc: I'm not angry! Just get out already! Ryfia: ...! (Ryfia leaves the party. The next morning, Adele wakes up L'Arc) Adele: L'Arc! Wake up! L'Arc: ...Leave me alone, Adele. Adele: There's someone here from the Imperial Army. Get up! Now! L'Arc: Okay, okay! I'm up! Oh, brother... Adele: Heh heh. You sure look funny when you get up in the morning. L'Arc: Shut up! Adele: So... Ryfia's from the Republic, L'Arc? She's a North Noireism Diva, right? L'Arc: Did she tell you that? I told her to keep her identity a secret... Adele: Oh, no. I... well, I kind of wringed it out of her. L'Arc: ...Why'd you do that? Adele: Don't worry, L'Arc. The secret's safe with me. Is there something between you two, by the way? L'Arc: Huh? Adele: Never mind. Sorry. (They leave L'Arc's house, where an Imperial Soldier is waiting for him) Imperial Soldier: Legionnaire L'Arc Bright Lagoon, I presume. L'Arc: That's me. Imperial Soldier: I'm here to deliver the 50000 Rico payment for your next mission. (The soldier pays him 50000 Rico) Imperial Soldier: You will receive the rest of your fee upon successfully completing the mission. L'Arc: What? I was told I'd be paid as much as I wanted! Imperial Soldier: Yes. You are to place your offer after completing the mission. L'Arc: What are you gonna do if I ask for all the Empire's wealth? Imperial Soldier: Take that up with the Crown Prince... after you complete the mission, that is. A humble legionnaire should be honored to be in the presence of such nobility. Adele: Ugh. Is there anything uglier than the greed of a man? Imperial Soldier: You wench! (An old man appears and kicks the soldier) Imperial Soldier: Gahh! Zamuel: What's this!?! What are you doing with my lovely granddaughter?! Insolent whelp! L'Arc: Old man Zamuel! Zamuel: How many times have I told you, L'Arc? You will refer to me as "Master" Zamuel. Imperial Soldier: ...Zamuel? The Crimson Mist?! Zamuel: Ho ho. So even a little mouse like you has heard of me! Zamuel the Crimson Mist, invincible swordsman of the Lord Knights, the strongest mercenary in Fulheim. Do you want my autograph? Imperial Soldier: I, uh, I better be going. (The soldier leaves) Zamuel: Kids these days! Since Lord Mahat fell sick and that young pup Prince Weiss took over, the army's really gone downhill. Adele: Grampa! Welcome back! Zamuel: Ah, sweet Adele! Have you been behaving? L'Arc: Gramps! Where have you been? Zamuel: Enough of your stupid questions, you! L'Arc: ...Stupid? Ah, well, I need your advice. Zamuel: Hmph. I'll be taking that before you get any advice out of me, laddie. (Zamuel takes the 50000 Rico the soldier gave L'Arc) L'Arc: Ahhh! Hey! What are you doing?! Zamuel: How long have you been living in my home without paying rent? L'Arc: So what? The school is making money hand over fist, right? Zamuel: That's got absolutely nothing to do with this, laddie. L'Arc: Pfft! And you call yourself the invincible swordsman of the Lord Knights? You know Leon, their leader? He could crush you like a bug! (Ryfia appears) Ryfia: What's happening? I heard a loud voice... Zamuel: I don't remember there being any pretty lasses like you amongst my students... L'Arc: Ryfia... Zamuel: She's a friend of yours, L'Arc? L'Arc: Uh... yeah. Zamuel: I see. Well, off to my room. I'll hear what you've got to say in there. Something to do with that young lass, I'm sure. L'Arc: How did you know? Zamuel: Hah! Why else would someone like her be with some boorish oaf like yourself? Adele, come with me. (Adele and Zamuel leave) L'Arc: Well, sorry for being an oaf! Ryfia: That's all right, L'Arc. You're a gentle oaf! L'Arc: ... (Ryfia joins the party. They meet with Zamuel and Adele in Zamuel's room) Zamuel: Ah, there they are! Beauty and the beast! L'Arc: Watch your mouth, old man! I'm not afraid to give you a beating, y'know! Zamuel: Your bark's worse than your bite. I'm still more than a match for you. Ryfia: Wow. Really? L'Arc: Well... maybe. Ryfia: You must be very strong, Zamuel. Zamuel: Ho ho ho! Such praise from a North Noireism Diva! I'm honored, I am! L'Arc: ! Zamuel: I heard it from Adele. Sounds like you picked up a Diva during the Feldragon hunt. L'Arc: Ryfia! How much did you tell her? I thought I told you to keep it a secret! Ryfia: But you told me to make myself at home... Wouldn't that make Adele my sister? I don't want to keep secrets from my sister! L'Arc: ...Well, it's too late now. So here's what the problem is, Gramps... (L'Arc tells Zamuel about his Antrax mission) Zamuel: Infiltrate Antrax? Why'd he give you that mission...? L'Arc: We don't have diplomatic relations with Olquina, so I was wondering how I'd even get into Antrax. All Olquinians make a pilgrimage to Antrax in the Olquina Holy Lands. One of those ships comes into port here twice a month. Adele: In fact, I heard that an Olquina ship came into port this morning. L'Arc: Really? Great! I better go check it out. Zamuel: Wait, L'Arc. If you're going to Antrax... ...No. Never mind. L'Arc: Huh? You're acting weird, Gramps. Zamuel: ...It's nothing, laddie. Ryfia: L'Arc, if you're going to the port, then I want to go too. L'Arc: Yeah, yeah. You want to be with the Child of Eesa. Whatever. Come on then! Ryfia: Hee hee! Thank you, L'Arc! Adele: Um... can I... L'Arc: Mmm? Can you what? Adele: ...No. Nothing. See you later. (L'Arc and Ryfia head for the Port Zone. They enter the port and search for the Olquina ship. They see the Deathchanter about to enter the ship) Ryfia: L'Arc! That man... L'Arc: The guy who attacked us in Jada! He was Olquinian all along! Ryfia: An Olquinian was responsible for what happened to Mother... L'Arc: Oh... yeah. That's the guy, huh? Ryfia: Yes... The man who attacked the Singing Ministry and murdered my mother. L'Arc: Man, what is going on here? Are these Olquinian jerks trying to provoke a fight with North Noireists? That could start a war between the Republic and Olquina! (The Deathchanter enters the ship) Ryfia: What are we going to do, L'Arc? L'Arc: Huh? Whaddya mean, do? Ryfia: We can't pretend to be Olquinian as long as that man is on the ship. L'Arc: Oh... yeah. Hmm... We'll need to find another way into Antrax, I guess. Ryfia: We can't reach Olquina without a boat, though. L'Arc: Hmm... Let's go see if Alf has any ideas. I should let him know about that guy, too. (L'Arc and Ryfia enter Castle Diamant and find Alf in the Guards' Room. They tell him their situation) Alf: Ah.... So the man who attacked Ryfia is an Olquinian? In Olquina, the church and the state are practically one and the same. If my brother hears of this, it could lead to an attack on Antrax. L'Arc: I'd say so... And it does seem like Sir Weiss is itching for war. Alf: It must have been a terrible shock for you, Ryfia. Ryfia: I know we all follow different gods... but how could any man of faith do this? L'Arc: Don't you need to return to Benetnasch to report about this, Ryfia? Ryfia: Why? L'Arc: What do you mean, "why"? Isn't it obvious? You have to report it to the Republic's Senate so they can punish Olquina. Ryfia: That won't bring back my mother... or the servants. L'Arc: Well, no, but... Ryfia: I just want to know why. Why did they attack the Singing Ministry in Benetnasch? And why did they kill my mother? I must remain with you, L'Arc. You are the Child of Eesa. You were ordered to go to Antrax. It feels as if Eesa is guiding us. Alf: You must think you'll find the answer to those questions in Antrax, yes? L'Arc: Wasn't your mother's dying wish that you see Simmah in Jada? Ryfia: Yes. So that I could find the Child of Eesa. And that's how I met you, L'Arc... L'Arc: What were you planning to do after that? You said you were going to guide me to Imaginal's Law. What does that mean, anyway? Ryfia: ...I don't know. L'Arc: Huh? Ryfia: I didn't think I would find the Child of Eesa so quickly. I thought I would have more time to contemplate my next move. I thought maybe Simmah would tell me what to do... L'Arc: Not much of a guide, are you? Ryfia: I... I'm sorry. L'Arc: Ahh, whatever. I don't really care about this Child of Eesa business anyway. Getting back on track, Alf, what should we do about a ship? Alf: Ah yes. Let's go to the port together. I'll speak to the navy. L'Arc: Thanks. (Alf joins the party. The trio heads back to the Port Zone. There, they encounter Niko) L'Arc: ! Niko: Er... Mr. L'Arc? L'Arc: Niko! Weren't you in jail?! Niko: Heh heh... Prince Weiss gave me a special pardon. But anyway, good timing! I was just looking for you! L'Arc: Oh, great. What are you going to annoy me with this time? Niko: No, no, it's Adele! She's in trouble! Alf: Adele?! Niko: Yeah! Zamuel's Martial Arts School was just attacked! L'Arc: What?! Ryfia: No...! Did the Olquinian attack the school because I stayed there? Niko: I dunno. All I know is, it fell under attack. You gotta help us, Mr. L'Arc! Alf: Get moving, L'Arc! (L'Arc, Ryfia and Alf begin to leave. Niko doesn't move. L'Arc comes back) L'Arc: Don't just stand there, Niko! Niko: Eh? L'Arc: You're coming too! Niko: B-But I'm more of a rear guard kinda guy, Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: Move it, before I make mincemeat outta you! Niko: Okay, okay! I get it... (Niko joins the party. They all begin to head back to Zamuel's Martial Arts School. Meanwhile, a little girl is looking around the Fountain Square and she notices the party run by. She catches up to Ryfia) Girl: Excuse me. Do you know where Zamuel's Martial Arts School is? Ryfia: Oh, what a coincidence. We were just heading there now. (The other three come back) L'Arc: Hey Ryfia, whaddya doing? Girl: Oh, really? Could you take me with you? Cecille has a message for Elena at the school, but can't find her way there. L'Arc: For my mom? What message? Cecille: I'm afraid I can't tell you, even if you are her son. Such is the Path of Valor. Alf: L'Arc! That doesn't matter now! We have to get to Adele and the others! L'Arc: Uh, listen, little girl... Cecille: Little girl? That's no way to speak to a veteran warrior! Niko: Heh... This little brat is a veteran warrior...? (Cecille punches Niko so hard he flies upward) Niko: Gaaghhh!! (Niko lands on his head. Cecille jumps up the stairs) Cecille: I am the wandering warrior Cecille. Now, take me with you to Zamuel's school! L'Arc: ...All right then. Let's go! (Cecille smiles. She calms down and nods. The group heads to the school. Outside and inside the school, there are many bodies lying on the ground. The party enters. Alf runs ahead) Alf: Adele! Where are you?! L'Arc: Niko! What's the meaning of this? Niko: I-I don't know. When I got here, we were under attack by some nasty looking men. L'Arc: So you left them to fend for themselves while they were being attacked?! Niko: Um... well, I... er. L'Arc: Arghh!! Mom! Zamuel! Alf: L'Arc! (Alf has found Elena. The rest of the group joins them) Elena: Oh, L'Arc, it's horrible! L'Arc: Mom! What happened? Where are Zamuel and Adele? Are you hurt? Ryfia: L'Arc! Calm down. Alf: Ask one question at a time, or you'll just confuse her. L'Arc: ...Sorry. Please, tell us what happened. Elena: These strange men attacked the Martial Arts School and stole something from the armory. Zamuel said they were a band of thieves. He and Adele left to chase after them. Alf: Adele did? Oh, no, she's in far too much danger! Cecille: You're Elena Lagoon, aren't you? My name is Cecille. I got this from some old man named Zamuel. (Cecille takes out a strange creature) L'Arc: Oh? What's that? Niko: A... a monster? Ryfia: Oh! A Kopin! I've seen those before. L'Arc: Kopin? Is that what this stupid-looking thing is called? Kopin: We Kopin are not stupid. Niko: Gahh! I-It talks! Kopin: I have a message for Leon. "I've found our old enemy. He's on the Mandelro Coast. We're going to keep after him, but we need your help. Get here as soon as you can! If something happens, take care of Adele for me." That is all. L'Arc: Leon? THE Leon? The legendary commander of the Lord Knights? Niko: But Leon disappeared after the Lord Knights were disbanded. Alf: What is Master Zamuel thinking...? Elena: Leon should be near Diamant. Should I let him know about this? L'Arc: What...? You're kidding me. Elena: Zamuel and Leon have been writing to each other via carrier falcon. We could attach a message to the falcon to contact him. Niko: A falcon, though? Is that reliable? Elena: But if this message is for real, that's probably what Zamuel wants us to do. L'Arc: I agree with Niko, Mom. I don't want to hang around waiting to see if Leon turns up or not. I'm gonna go see him myself! Alf: M-Me too! Ryfia: I go wherever the Child of Eesa goes. Elena: ...Yes. You should do that. I'm worried about them too. Could you come here, Cecille? I'll write a letter for Leon. Ryfia: L'Arc, we have to hurry! If we don't catch up with Zamuel and Adele... L'Arc: Yeah. If that guy's asking for help, he must be up against one tough opponent. Let's go! (The party, minus Niko and Cecille, leave. L'Arc comes back) L'Arc: Hello? Move it, you idiot! If you won't do anything else, you can at least be my shield! Hurry it up! Niko: Y-Yes sir! I'm coming... (L'Arc and Niko rejoin Alf and Ryfia. The party prepares to leave Diamant when they see the carrier falcon sent to Leon fly overhead in Fountain Square. Cecille catches up to them) Cecille: That's Leon's falcon. Elena's message was tied to its leg. Niko: ...Hmm. I wonder if it'll really deliver the letter to Leon? L'Arc: Who knows? Ryfia: Have you come to see us off, Cecille? Cecille: No. I'm going with you. Alf: What are you talking about? A young girl like you can't... Cecille: I am young, but I'm also a magnificent warrior. I'm interested in Leon, the phenomenal swordsman they call "Godspeed." If I go with you, then I might get a chance to meet him. L'Arc: I don't have time to babysit some little kid! Cecille: Are you sure? The Mandelro Coast is a pretty big place. I was going to tell you where Zamuel was headed, but if you don't need me to... Ryfia: How do you know where he is? Cecille: Because I heard him and the girl talking. So come on! Take me with you! Please? Helping people is a fundamental part of the Path of Valor! I want to help people and meet Leon. If you take me, I'll tell you which way that old man was going! L'Arc: ..."If" we take you? You shouldn't attach conditions to helping people! Alf: L'Arc! This is just wasting time... L'Arc: Fine, we'll take you with us! Just don't do anything stupid. Cecille: Of course not. The old man said that they would take the path down the coast to the south of Diamant. Okay. Let's go! People need saving! (Cecille joins the party. They all leave Diamant and head to Mandelro Coast) [--------------------------] [Mandelro Coast-------(MDC)] [--------------------------] (The party enters Mandelro Coast) Ryfia: Is this the Mandelro Coast? L'Arc: There are allegedly cave entrances in the coves along the coast. Perfect for a thieves' hideout! Alf: We need to move! Adele could... Adele and Master Zamuel could be in trouble! (The party travels along the coast. They come upon Zamuel, laying defeated on the ground, near the entrance to a cove) L'Arc: Gramps? Zamuel: Nggh... L'Arc: Gramps, it's me! L'Arc! Hang in there! What happened to you? Alf: See to his wounds first, L'Arc. Ryfia: Let's help him. (Ryfia takes a look at Zamuel's wounds) Ryfia: This... this is... Niko: W-What happened? His wounds have become like stone! Ryfia: I can't perform first aid on this! L'Arc: We're gonna take you back to town, okay, Gramps? Alf: What about Adele...? Zamuel: Adele is... further in. Cecille: What do you mean? Zamuel: I tried to get Adele out when they attacked us... But Adele fled from them, deeper inside. L'Arc: Them? Who?! (Rastan appears) Rastan: Ignacy and his men. L'Arc: Weren't you at Jada...? (Rastan oversees Zamuel) Zamuel: Leon... Nngh! L'Arc: Hey! Hang in there! Rastan: ...He's okay. Just unconscious. L'Arc: Whoa! You're... You're Leon? The legendary commander of the Lord Knights... Ryfia: Legendary? He's that amazing? Cecille: That and more! I heard he and three others took on a whole regiment and came out victorious and unscathed! Rastan: ...That's not me. I am merely Rastan. No more, no less. Alf: Who is this Ignacy that you mentioned before? Rastan: My sworn enemy! Only he would be able to defeat Zamuel the Crimson Mist. I heard rumors that he'd been spotted in this area recently. L'Arc: So you know Gramps? Then you must be... Rastan: There isn't a mercenary anywhere in this world who hasn't heard of the Crimson Mist. L'Arc: ...I guess not. Although I don't know who else would show up here other than Leon. Rastan: That doesn't matter. Zamuel's life will be in jeopardy if something isn't done soon. I'll take Zamuel back to town. You are...? L'Arc: I'm L'Arc! L'Arc Bright Lagoon. Rastan: L'Arc... Lagoon?! Not Rex's...? L'Arc: Yep! Son of Rex Lagoon. Hey, you ARE Leon, aren't you?! Rastan: ...There's no time for this! I have to go now! Alf: Okay. We'll keep going after Adele. L'Arc: Right. Rastan: Very well. However, if you run into Ignacy, do not try to fight him. He is far more than you can handle! L'Arc: Got it! Take care of Gramps! (Rastan leaves with Zamuel. The party continues and then stops at the entrance to a cove) Niko: He, Mr. L'Arc... L'Arc: What? Niko: Is it really okay to leave Master Zamuel in the hands of that old man? Ryfia: Leon? Sorry, you mean Mr. Rastan? L'Arc: Heh. Don't bother. That was definitely Leon! Zamuel called him that. And most importantly, he knew my father. Alf: Witchblade Rex. The legendary mage of the Lord Knights. Leon's most trusted officer... L'Arc: My father was Leon's friend. If that guy knew Gramps and my father, who else could he be? He must have read the letter and come after us. Alf: Then Ignacy is... L'Arc: Yeah. He must be "the old enemy" in the Kopin's message. Alf: The bitter enemy of the strongest and most beloved mercenary of the Lord Knights. Not just a simple band of thieves, eh? Niko: Oh, man! Is this a good idea, Mr. L'Arc?! L'Arc: Pfft! We won't know if we don't try! Cecille: ...Um, hello? I have a request. Ryfia: Oh? Cecille: I want to catch up with Leon. He can't fight off any monsters while carrying Gramps, can he? I have to protect them. Once we get back to town, though, that's when I'll challenge him to battle. Bye for now! (Cecille leaves the party) L'Arc: Hey! If you're going back to town, then take Ryfia with... Oh, she's already gone. Ryfia: No, no. I'm staying with the Child of Eesa. Alf: Ryfia, this is getting dangerous. We may run into something even Master Zamuel can't defeat. Ryfia: That doesn't matter! My place is with you, L'Arc. That's my true calling. Niko: All right. I'll go back to town in place of you. ...Ha ha! Just joking. (The party enters the cove. They go deeper in until they find the dead body of a thief) Alf: Oh... Niko: He, he's dead! L'Arc: Don't look Ryfia! Ryfia: ...Ah! Alf: It seems like something is happening further in. L'Arc: Hurry! (The party enters the Hidden Docks area. There are many dead thieves strewn on the ground) Ryfia: Oh, no... It's just like what happened in Benetnasch! Alf: L'Arc! Over there! (Alf points to two young girls battling thieves. Adele is with them, who looks in horror as the girls kill the thieves. The last remaining thief falls on his bottom) Thief: You... you planned to kill us all along, didn't you?! Paula: So you finally realized, huh? Luna, if you will. Luna: My pleasure, sister. (The girls prepare to attack) Thief: Aaaaghhh!! (The girls kill the thief, who drops a pendant as he falls to the ground. Adele picks it up) Paula: Now hand over that pendant! Adele: Never! This is my only link to my mother! Luna: Then you can find her in hell! (Paula attacks Adele with her scythe, but L'Arc appears and blocks the attack) Paula: Who are you?! (The others appear) Adele: L'Arc! Everyone! Paula: Stay away! I'll show you no mercy! L'Arc: You'll be asking for mercy! (The party battles Luna and Paula. As they are about to be defeated...) Paula: Good... Finally, a challenge! Luna: It's time to get real. (The girls unleash their Magical Gemini attack. Niko clutches onto L'Arc) Niko: M-Mr. L'Arc! Help me! L'Arc: Nngh! Let go! (They both get hit with the attack) L'Arc: ...Whoa! (They are sent flying onto the wall) Ryfia, Alf and Adele: L'Arc! Paula: So, who's next? (The others prepare for battle, but a ship pulls into the docks. The man operating the ship appears) Man: Get on! (L'Arc picks up Niko and the party heads for the ship) Paula: Stop right there! (The girls rush to attack the party) Man: I don't think so! (The man unleashes a magic blast upon the girls, launching them back. They land safely) Paula: Nggh... (The party escapes on the ship. The man taunts them goodbye) ???: You two! Enough of that! (An old man appears) Luna: Lord Ignacy! (The girls bow) Luna: Forgive us. Ignacy: You're forgiven. It wasn't my intent to get a Diva mixed up in this. It's time for us to leave. I've had enough of this filthy place! Luna and Paula: Yes sir! (The ship leaves the Mandelro Coast) [--------------------------------------] [Olquina and Kopin Village--------(OKV)] [--------------------------------------] (Inside the ship, L'Arc is asleep and surrounded by the rest of the party. He wakes up) Adele: L'Arc! You're awake! (Ryfia approaches L'Arc) Ryfia: I'm so glad you're alive! L'Arc: Ngh... Hey! Adele: Ryfia, be careful! L'Arc is hurt. Ryfia: Oh... sorry. I was just so happy, so... Adele: Are you feeling all right? L'Arc: What happened to me? I remember carrying Niko to the ship, then... Ryfia: You fell unconscious after the ship left shore. Alf: You took a lot of hard knocks. I'm amazed you didn't faint like Niko did. L'Arc: Speaking of Niko, where is he? Adele: He's guarding Serge, that thief who helped us. L'Arc: You gave that important a job to that numbskull?! Alf:: It's okay. We wouldn't be here without him. L'Arc: Are you nuts? He's one of the thieves that attacked the school! You can't trust a guy like that! Where is this Serge guy? Alf: He's on the bridge. L'Arc: All right. Let's go. (The Kopin who delivered the message back in Diamant is also on the ship. He talks to the party) Kopin: Did you sleep well, L'Arc? L'Arc: I wasn't actually sleeping. Kopin: I've been looking for you. Ryfia: What's the matter? Kopin: Please come with me. (The Kopin directs them to a cage filled with many other Kopin) Adele: Whoa... Kopin: They were kidnapped from our village. L'Arc: Oh. Well, this is a thieves' ship, after all. Kopin: We need to get back home, so we want to make a deal. Alf: I'll speak with Serge. L'Arc: The best way to deal with the likes of him is with my fists! Adele: Don't get carried away, L'Arc! You can't afford to hurt yourself any more than you have. Ryfia: Listen to her, Child of Eesa. I can't afford to lose you now. L'Arc: Ugh... all right, all right. (The party meets with Serge and Niko on the Deck of the ship) Niko: Mr. L'Arc! You're up! Serge: Yo. Good to see you made it, kid. L'Arc: Who're you calling a kid?! Serge: Whoa. Don't get so worked up, boy! You realize that I saved your life, right? L'Arc: Don't call me "boy" either! I'm L'Arc. Serge: Yeah, so I heard. You're a legionnaire, huh? The name's Serge. I'm the thieves' navigator... Well, I was until they were all killed by those strange beauties. L'Arc: Thanks for helping us, but I don't want anything to do with bandits. Kopin: We want you to take us back to our village. Serge: Mm? Oh, you mean the cargo? Sure. I'm fine with that. Adele: ...That was easy. Serge: Hey, I'm just the new guy. Selling Kopin to those dirty nobles made me sick anyway. Besides, now that my boss is dead, I don't know any of the smuggling routes. Kopin: Ahh, now we can see the sunrise over our peaceful village again! L'Arc: Okay, so why did the thieves attack Zamuel's School? Serge: That guy Ignacy was offering a lot of money to steal this pendant. Adele: A pendant? Niko: What would Ignacy want with your pendant? Serge: I have no idea. I'm the new guy. They don't tell me anything. Niko: Hah! Lotta help you are! Serge: Whatever... Alf: What is that pendant, anyway? Adele: I really don't know much about it. Grampa told me the pendant was a valuable link to my mother. He said that no matter what, I shouldn't let it go. Ryfia: That pendant... It looks like mine! Adele: You're right... What's yours for, Ryfia? Ryfia: It's a memento of my mother. I took it when I left Benetnasch. Adele: Your mother...? Serge: I guess you'll get to find out more from old man Zamuel in Diamant. L'Arc: Pfft. Like I need advice from you, you thief. Serge: Hey, don't be so uptight, kid! I'll put us on a heading for Diamant once we get out to sea. (The party goes back inside the ship's cabin. L'Arc talks to the rest of his party members as well as the Kopin) Adele: I can't believe Zamuel's School was attacked because of my mom's pendant... Alf: If I were dependable and strong, I wouldn't have had to put Adele through a risky situation like that... Ryfia: A book that I read at the Singing Ministry said that robbers are bad. But Serge seems different. Kopin: My lifesaver, Mr. L'Arc! This is a gift for you from an unworthy Kopin like myself. (The Kopin gives L'Arc swimsuits for all of the party members) Kopin: I heard young people enjoy dressing up in the human world. I would be happy if you started dressing up for me. Niko: Those two ladies... Who were they? Their eyes were creepy! (The ship begins to shake) Ryfia: Yagh! Alf: Are you all right, Adele? Adele: Y-Yes... (The ship heads toward an unidentified object. The party appears back on the ship's deck) L'Arc: ...Huh? What's that?! Alf: A coral reef...? L'Arc: Change course! Serge: I can't! The tiller won't budge! Ryfia: We're going to hit it! L'Arc: Aaaagh! (The ships hits the strange object. Back inside the ship's cabin...) L'Arc: Oww... What happened? Ryfia: Were we saved? L'Arc: Yeah. Looks like it. Adele: L'Arc... I was so scared. Alf: Adele! Are you hurt? Adele: ...No, I'm okay. Alf: The ship isn't swaying. We probably ran aground somewhere. Niko: Come to think of it, where's Serge? L'Arc: Serge? Maybe he made a run for it. Alf: I doubt it. Let's try and find him. (On the ship's deck...) Serge: Oh! You're finally awake! L'Arc: Still here, huh...? Serge: C'mon. You really think I'd run off by myself? L'Arc: Well... yeah, I do. Sorry. Serge: Wow! No trust at all! Can't blame you, I guess... I am a thief, after all. Ryfia: What happened to the ship? Serge: I think we drifted here after hitting the reef. And by the looks of it, the ship won't be sailing again soon. Alf: Oh no... (The Kopins that were locked up in the cage appear and exit the ship) Niko: Wow... A big Kopin parade! Adele: I wonder where they're going... Kopin: This is Olquina, our home. I've missed this red soil so much! Serge: Ah, I see... We must have drifted here on the Delta Current. L'Arc: Olquina? This is Olquina?! Serge: If the Kopin says so, it probably is. Niko: Oh, man, what are we gonna do? Without a ship, we can't get back to Diamant. Kopin: Why don't you come to our village? Ryfia: Is it nearby? Kopin: Yes. Everyone's walking there now. You rescued us! You're heroes! The bravest of the brave! We want to thank you. Alf: L'Arc, how about we go and see their village? We're not going to solve anything sitting here anyway. L'Arc: You're right about that. If you think about it, we're a lot closer to reaching Antrax than before, huh? Kopin: Our home is to the south of here. Ryfia: Aren't you coming, Serge? Serge: ...Eh? I'm one of the thieves that attacked Adele. Don't you think it's a bad idea to have anything more to do with me? Ryfia: But you'll be lonely if we leave you here alone. Serge: ...Bah hah hah hah! Aren't you a cute one! L'Arc: Hurry up, Serge! I wouldn't have a clear conscience if I left you here now. Besides, I have a debt to repay. Are you okay with that, Adele? Adele: If you say so, L'Arc. Serge: ...Right, then! Don't mind if I do. (Adele and Serge join the party. They leave the ship and set out toward the Kopin Village. They eventually reach the village) L'Arc: So this is the Kopins' home. Ryfia: ...I see there's crystallization here, too. L'Arc: Crystallization? Adele: What is this? It looks like it used to be a forest, but... Alf: ...We received reports of a desert oasis that had been crystallized. Our scholars couldn't discern the cause, but it looks like the same phenomenon is occurring here. Niko: Weren't Master Zamuel's wounds sort of like this, Mr. L'Arc? L'Arc: Come to think of it, you're right! Ryfia: I think it's being caused by the evil god Real. Real is trying to destroy the world by using the Hymn of Ruination to crystallize the earth. Adele: Isn't Real Eesa's sister? She's the Olquinian god. L'Arc: What? So you're saying some divine curse did this to the trees? Who actually believes in the gods? Besides old people, anyway? (The Kopin appears with two other blue Kopin) Serge: W-Whoa! Whoa whoa whoa! Kopin: You are our heroes! Thank you very much! But you are a bad man! Enemy of Kopin! (The Kopins surround Serge) Serge: Hey, wait! I didn't... Aghh! (The Kopins take Serge with them) Niko: What should we do, Mr. L'Arc? L'Arc: ...Don't ask me! (The party finds Serge at the Kopin Elder's house) Serge: Ryfia! Adele! And the rest of you guys! L'Arc: ...Let's go, guys. Serge: Whoa! Hey, I'm just kidding! You're a handsome guy, L'Arc! Kopin Elder: Is this man your friend? L'Arc: No way. Ryfia: Be nice, L'Arc. Alf: It is my great pleasure to meet you. I am Alf, Second Prince of the Meridian Empire. I don't know how to apologize for the injustice brought upon you by malcontents from our Empire. However, those responsible are no longer alive, and this man has reformed to become a dear ally. I beg that you find mercy in your heart and release this man. Kopin Elder: Hmm... (The Kopins release Serge) Serge: ...Phew. I was about to be the Kopins' snack! L'Arc: You couldn't be any nicer if you tried, Alf! Alf: What's wrong? He saved us, too. Serge, will you swear never to become a thief again? Serge: I'd be happy to pledge my life to serving you, Prince Alf. (Serge rejoins the party) L'Arc: Pfft, seriously? He's just as bad as Niko! Niko: Mr. L'Arc! Don't compare me to him! Alf: By the way, wise Elder, there were some crystallized trees at the entrance to the village... Kopin Elder: That is the anger of the gods. The Red Moon god turned the trees to stone. L'Arc: Huh? The Red Moon? Kopin Elder: The Moon god lives in the center of the world. It was cursed by an evil dragon and split into three. L'Arc: Huh...? Kopin Elder: The Blue Moon god was furious and vanished. The Red Moon god then rained fire. Kopin learned to speak. The White Moon god rained light. The evil dragon became a good dragon... Such is the Kopins' tale. L'Arc: Yeah, uh, I wasn't asking for a bedtime story. Ryfia: It's not a fairy tale. I was instructed by Eesa's brother, Imaginal, to search for the Child of Eesa. If the Child of Eesa can awaken Eesa, then the crystallization caused by Real can be stopped. Adele: That sounds like a fairy tale, too. Niko: It all sounds kinda, well, too crazy to be true. Alf: Ryfia's story does seem to mesh with the Kopin legend, though. L'Arc: Well, either way, the crystallization is certainly real enough. Maybe Ryfia's story isn't a fairy tale after all... Ryfia: L'Arc! Oh, thank you! Adele: Oh, they're just tall tales! There's no such thing as gods! Serge: Enough arguing, okay? What are we going to do now? L'Arc: We need to reach Antrax. I've got a mission to complete. And now that we lost out boat, Antrax is the only way back home. Niko: How long would it take to get to Antrax from here? Kopin Elder: You'll have to go east through the jungle. Alf: A jungle...? Do you two girls think you can handle that? Ryfia: With you, L'Arc, I can go anywhere. Adele: S-So can I! Kopin Elder: Then I will have a villager guide you. Kopin: Heroes, I will be your guide. L'Arc: Wonderful. To Antrax! (On their way out of the village, another Kopin talks to the party) Hospitable Kopin: A moment of your time, O Hero of the Kopins? L'Arc: Huh? What is it? Hospitable Kopin: As a token of our thanks, I'll bestow a power upon our kinsman so he may better aid you in your quest. L'Arc: A new power? Hospitable Kopin: In our desire to become the ultimate monster... We have discovered much hidden potential within ourselves. Come at me now, comrade, with all your might. Kopin: With all my might I come! (They begin to battle) Hospitable Kopin: Take that! Kopin: Hmpf. Hospitable Kopin: And this! And that! Kopin: Argh. L'Arc: ...This is something to remember. Hospitable Kopin: Your travels have taught you well. The ultimate power will have blossomed within you. Kopin: A mysterious power is rising within me. L'Arc: A mysterious power? Of what kind? Hospitable Kopin: With this ultimate power, our kin will make short work of the boulder standing yonder. L'Arc: Whoa! That powerful, eh? Kopin: Confidence is pulsating within my being. (Kopin destroys the boulder) Kopin: Short work, as proclaimed. L'Arc: (These guys might bombard us if we make too much fun of them...) Hospitable Kopin: Flabbergasted into silence I see! Our kin, furthermore, shall be fully capable of removing cracked walls and such, paving the way for further adventures! Kopin: My confidence suggests you rely on me, Master L'Arc. L'Arc: Y-yeah. Great! Just awesome! (The party leaves Kopin Village and sets out towards Nabra Jungle) [-------------------------------] [Nabra Jungle--------------(NBJ)] [-------------------------------] (The party enters Nabra Jungle) Ryfia: It's so green! Completely different to the gardens around the Singing Ministry. It's so beautiful... Serge: You're rather relaxed Ryfia. The rest of us are sweltering in this heat... Adele: I'll say... We're going to be stuck with this heat for a while, aren't we? Niko: The jungle is probably full of bugs and stuff! Eww... L'Arc: Hey! You guys quit your whining! We haven't even left yet! If you're gonna complain, then you can live with the Kopin. Forever! Alf: C'mon, L'Arc. It really is hot. Kopin: I will guide you along the shortest route. Let's work together. L'Arc: ...I hope it's a very short route. I doubt this sorry group will last long. (The party comes across a huge flower) Adele: Wow! This flower is huge! Ryfia: Wow...! L'Arc: It's just a stupid flower. C'mon, let's go! Adele: Jeez! You're not romantic at all, L'Arc! Serge: Ahh... oh no. Ha! Ha! People like L'Arc don't know the difference between flower and flour! L'Arc: Of course I do! Besides, that looks more like a carnivorous plant than a flower! Look, it's even got teeth! Adele: Eh? No way! Ryfia: Look out, Adele! Adele: Kyaa... (Adele backs away from the plant) L'Arc: Stop messing around! Adele: S-sorry... L'Arc: You've been getting yourself into that kind of trouble since you were a kid. Adele: I have not! Ryfia: What's a carnivorous plant? Alf: ... (The party continues through the jungle, defeating monsters along the way and feeding their spoils to the carnivorous plants in order to proceed further into the jungle. They eventually reach the other end of the jungle, known as the Decaying Hall) Niko: This jungle can't go on much longer. Serge: ...Shh! Quiet! L'Arc: ...What is it? (They hear voices up ahead) ??? Man: You... You can't! ??? Woman: Aggghh! Alf: Was that a scream? Adele: W-What...? L'Arc: Be careful! There's someone up ahead! (The party continues and finds an Olquinian soldier and another man attacking a pilgrim nearby a giant flower-like plant. Another pilgrim is already dead) Pilgrim: Arghhh! (He dies) Ryo: You are evil! A monster in preacher's clothing! Alf: Hey! What're you doing?! (The party arrives on the scene) Ryo: Ahh, crap, they found us! Hey, Mickey, what should we do? Mickey: You want to know what to do, Ryo...? Mickey/Ryo: ...Run away! (They flee) L'Arc: Hey! Stop! Kopin: Danger! Danger! Niko: Whoa! What? Kopin: Danger! Danger! The smell of blood has awoken the Lord of the Jungle. L'Arc: Look out! There's something there! (The giant plant, Vifrons, comes to life and attacks the party. They fight and defeat it) Alf: Should we chase those two? Serge: No, just give up on them. It'll only lead to trouble anyway. Adele: Ryfia... who are they? Ryfia: Oh, no... Adele: It's so horrible... Ryfia: Let's bury them. We at least have enough time to do that, don't we? L'Arc: Yeah. We do. (The party buries the dead pilgrims) Ryfia: Thank you... Serge: All right. Shall we get going? Kopin: The Inn of the Blue Moon god is just ahead. Antrax is beyond that. L'Arc: Blue Moon...? Serge: Ahh, he probably means a Moon Inn where the Noireist Preachers rest. You can find them along roads around the world. I'm pretty sure there's one in Olquina, too. Ryfia: You sure are smart, Mr. Serge. Serge: No need to be so formal. Call me Serge, sweety. Niko: Ugh. What a creep! L'Arc: Said the pot to the kettle! Niko/Serge: Who are you calling a pot/kettle?! (The party leaves Nabra Jungle and sets out towards the Full Moon Inn) [-------------------------------------------------------] [Full Moon Inn, Antrax, and Olquina Shrine---------(FAO)] [-------------------------------------------------------] (The party reaches the Full Moon Inn and enters the Inn building) Alf: We're not far from Antrax Parish now. Niko: Yeah, but is this really safe? You know this is Olquinian territory, and I'm wearing an Imperial Army uniform! Ryfia: Oh, that's an army uniform? Niko: Ryfia? You hadn't noticed? Ryfia: I thought it suited you. You wear it differently from the other soldiers. Adele: Niko wears his uniform like a slob. General Freya is always yelling at him. (A woman inside the Inn talks to the party) Woman: Are you headed for Antrax, too? L'Arc: And you are? Woman: I'm the same as you. I'm a traveler. But I'm not Olquinian. I'll help you out. Here's a little bit of free advice. If you want to play it safe, you should try and look nothing like the Imperial Army. Alf: Really? But why? I've heard that people from any country are welcomed here. Woman: Things are a little... different now. (She begins to leave) Alf: H-How so...? Woman: Sorry. I really have to go now. I'm sure we'll meet again soon! (She leaves) L'Arc: Wow... What a woman. Serge: Yeah, but kind of a short skirt.. Niko: I'll say. Adele: Oh, so you like that type of woman, Niko? Niko: Yeah, no man can resist a beautiful woman! Right, Mr. L'Arc? Ryfia: Is that true? L'Arc: ...... Adele: I'm so disappointed in you, L'Arc! L'Arc: ...Hey, Alf! Help me out here! Alf: ... Serge: Ahh, the joys of youth! It only gets more complicated from here, kid. (The party rests at the Inn for the night. In the morning, they leave the Full Moon Inn and set out for Antrax Parish. When they reach Antrax, they are greeted by an Olquinian soldier known as a Zealot) Zealot: Halt! Serge: We are on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land to receive Real's blessings. Please, let us pass. Zealot: ...I see. Well, in that case, I suppose I can let you through. It's just that one of your party is wearing the uniform of the Meridian Empire military... Alf: Is there a problem? Zealot: What? You haven't heard? Just earlier, Ms. Diva Rafil was killed by a Meridian assassin. L'Arc/Alf: ! Zealot: Because of this, certain believers have strong feelings against the Meridian Empire, so be careful! (The zealot leaves) L'Arc: That must be what that woman was talking about earlier... Alf: What are you talking about? I haven't heard anything about this! Serge: Calm down. Maybe it's all just a big misunderstanding. Anyway, the only thing we can do right now is try not to agitate the townspeople any further. Adele: That's right! Especially you, Niko! You'd better be careful! Ryfia: Don't worry. Niko will be fine! Niko: Aw, you're so sweet, Ryfia... Adele: Heh. Sorry I can't sugarcoat it like she can. L'Arc: No, Adele's right. You gotta watch yourself, Niko! Niko: Aww, come on, Mr. L'Arc! Don't be so negative! L'Arc: I'm just telling the truth! Let's head into town and try to get some information. How are we ever going to finish our mission if we don't even know where the Skywalk is? (Walking through the city, Niko bumps into some townsfolk) Niko: Owwww! Hey! Watch where you're walking! Pilgrim 1: Oh... I'm sorry. Wait a second...! You're from the Meridian Empire, aren't you?! Pilgrim 2: Hey, you're right! That's what the Meridian military wears! Pilgrim 3: You filthy Meridian scum! You killed our Diva! Niko: Hey, uh, Mr. L'Arc? I got a bad feeling about this... L'Arc: Ugh, you idiot! I told you not to act so conspicuous! Pilgrim 4: Did you really kill our Diva?! Serge: Wait! He may be dressed that way, but he has long since left the Meridian military. Niko: ...Huh? Serge: Angry with the wicked ways of Meridia, he has deserted the army and made his way to this Holy Land. Niko: Y-Yeah! He's right! General Freya always yelled at me, the prince always threatened me... I just couldn't take it any more! Serge: When I was young I once had the opportunity to meet the Diva Rafil. All the evil in my body simply disappeared when those beautiful blue eyes stared deeply into mine. Pilgrim 1: You actually saw the Diva in person? Oh, what a lucky soul you are... Pilgrim 2: I, too, have met with the Diva. This man is not telling a lie. Pilgrim 3: As an Olquinian, the Meridian Empire is my bitter enemy! You should rid yourself of that old, dirty uniform as soon as possible! (The pilgrims leave) Niko: Whew... I owe you one. Ryfia: You met the Diva of Olquinaism? What kind of person was she? Serge: Don't be crazy! Do you really think I saw a Diva? I just made all that up! L'Arc: You realize we'd be in even bigger trouble if they caught you in that lie, don't you? Serge: Hey, it worked, didn't it? Come on, relax a little! Alf: Either way, the fact that they think our country killed their Diva is a huge mistake... L'Arc: If they find out who we really are, we'll be in big trouble for sure. Hey. Niko. See why I told you to be careful now? Watch yourself! Niko: ...Yes, sir. I'm sorry. (Exploring the town, the party enters the Pier) Alf: Ah, the port... The pilgrimage boat should come here. L'Arc: Well, gee, that's just great. We could've just taken a leisurely boat ride, and wham, we all would've been right here! Serge: Ah, well... If you had, then you wouldn't have met me! L'Arc: Oh, yeah, what could we have possibly done without you? Serge: Hey! Why be so mean? You just hit puberty, didn't you? Hey, I know it's a rough time and all, but... L'Arc: Shut up! (The woman from the Full Moon Inn appears) Woman: Well, if it isn't the group from the Meridian Empire again! L'Arc: Oh, the girl from the Full Moon Inn... Leslie: Right! The name's Leslie. Pleased to meet you! L'Arc: I'm L'Arc. You sure weren't kidding, Leslie. With the assassination of the Diva, public opinion of the Meridian Empire isn't exactly high, is it? Leslie: Yeah. There's been some talk about revenge on "the wicked Empire." Adele: That's terrible... We're the ones hurting without our Ray! Niko: You can say that again! Ryfia: But I wonder what's going on? Just when I thought Olquina had attacked Benetnasch.... Now Olquina's Diva has been killed under mysterious circumstances. Leslie: Wait, Benetnasch was attacked? When did that happen? Ryfia: Benetnasch's Singing Ministry was raided. All the evidence points to it being an attack by the Olquinians... Leslie: ...Well, huh. I learned something useful here today. Thank you! (Leslie starts to leave) L'Arc: Ah, Leslie! Wait a second. Leslie: What is it, fella? L'Arc: ...My name is L'Arc. Leslie: Sorry! What is it, L'Arc-y? L'Arc: ...There's a Skywalk in this town, right? Do you know where it is? Leslie: Why do you need to go there? L'Arc: We're just curious, that's all. They're ruins from a long time ago, aren't they? Leslie: Hmm. You sure don't look the scholarly type to me, but... Olquina built a shrine atop the Skywalk. Basically, it's in the basement of the shrine. Adele: Isn't a Skywalk supposed to be in the sky? Serge: Yeah, but when the Feldragons came here 1000 years ago, the Skywalk fell around here. Leslie: Well, look at the smart guy here! Hardly needed to ask me at all, huh? (Leslie leaves) Alf: Serge, did you know the Skywalk was under the shrine? Serge: Of course not! If I had, don't you think I would have told you already? Niko: ...Are you sure? L'Arc: Ah, whatever! Let's just go check out that shrine. (The party heads for the shrine. They find the road leading to the shrine. The road is submerged underwater) Ryfia: What is this? It looks like the road goes down into the sea. Olquinian 1: This is the ocean road that leads to the shrine. Olquinian 2: You can't see it now, but when the tide goes down it'll reveal the path. Adele: That sounds like something out of a romantic poem! Ryfia: Tied...? How can you tie up a road? I don't get it... L'Arc: Ryfia... Are you serious? Ryfia: ..! Adele: Um, Ryfia... The ocean rises and falls at specific time intervals. It's called the "tide." When we say the tide goes down, that means the level of the sea surface goes down. Alf: Basically, the water goes down and reveals the path on the ocean floor. Ryfia: Wow! That's amazing! L'Arc: Eesh, don't you know anything? Adele: L'Arc! Don't be mean! Ryfia: No, L'Arc is right. I spent my life inside the Singing Ministry, so I barely know anything about the outside world. I'm really happy that everyone takes the time to teach me these things! L'Arc: ... Serge: What's with that look, L'Arc? L'Arc: ...Shut up. Niko: Well, I guess we can't see the shrine quite yet. What should we do? L'Arc: We'll just have to kill some time. We can either stand around and wait, or stay at the inn for the night. I say we rest a bit. We've been going nonstop since we lost our ship. Alf: I agree. We should get some rest. (The party stays at the Finite Sparkle Inn for the night. Later that night...) L'Arc: ...Ryfia, do you have a second? Ryfia: What is it? L'Arc: ...I'm sorry about earlier. Ryfia: Wh...what for? L'Arc: You know... when I said you didn't know anything. Ryfia: Why? It's the truth. You don't have to apologize. L'Arc: Well, I wanted to anyway. Something wrong with that? Ryfia: Tee hee... L'Arc: What's so funny? Ryfia: Nothing! I like you, that's all. L'Arc: W-What? This is about me being the Child of Eesa again, isn't it? Ryfia: No. Not at all, actually. L'Arc: Come one! Don't kid around! Adele: ............ (The next morning, the party leaves the Inn and heads for the Olquina Shrine. They reach the road to the shrine, which is now visible) Ryfia: Hey Adele! Look at that! The path is finally revealed! Adele: Huh...? Oh... yeah. Ryfia: Wow! So I guess that means the tide is down now, huh? Alf: Ryfia, I don't think it's something to get all that excited over... Ryfia: But, but, but... That road wasn't there before! L'Arc: ...Well, I suppose it is a pretty rare thing to see. Niko: I'm pretty amazed too, to be honest! Serge: Ah to be young again... When everything is new and fresh and exciting... L'Arc: Yeah, and not old and creepy like you! Come on, let's go! (The party crosses the road to the shrine. While exploring the shrine, the party finds three pilgrims praying in front of a statue) Adele: Ryfia... you're a pagan, right? And wasn't it the Olquinians that attacked Benetnasch? Ryfia: But the Olquinians' Diva is dead. When my mother's servants were killed, I was shocked too. Everyone feels the same kind of sadness. L'Arc: That's an interesting way of looking at it... I could never pray for the enemies of my parents if it was me. Adele: Me neither... Alf: But, Ryfia's right. The sadness felt when you lose someone close to you is the same no matter who you are. L'Arc: I never said Ryfia was wrong you know. I... just thought it was different from the way I think. I like hearing other people's opinions. Adele: L'Arc... Serge: ...Hmm, that pathway over there looks pretty suspicious. (On the opposite side of the statue, there is a zealot guarding the entrance to the basement of the shrine) Niko: Does that mean the way down to the Skywalk is just past there? Serge: Well, I don't see anywhere else it could be. L'Arc: All right then, let's check it out. (The party approaches the area guarded by the zealot) L'Arc: ...Looks like Serge was right. Serge: There's no turning back once we take this guard out. Are you ready L'Arc? L'Arc: I'm good. Niko, watch our backs! Niko: Yes sir! (L'Arc rushes towards the zealot with his sword) Zealot: Whoa! Hey, what's going on?! (L'Arc kills him) L'Arc: Now! (The party enters the Olquina Sub-Shrine) L'Arc: Well, we're in. Ryfia: So this is the Skywalk... Niko: Are these really... ruins? Adele: Something seems off here. Ryfia: Really? I actually feel something kind of nostalgic about this place. Alf: Are you sure we should be doing this? Our country is already misunderstood here... Adele: Alf... L'Arc: If we don't do something, Meridia will lose all its Ray. Without Ray, our cities are defenseless. They'd be wide open to Feldragon attack. If that happens to Diamant, then who knows what'll happen to all the people that live there... Alf: I know! I know, but... L'Arc: If you don't like it, you can stay back if you want. I'm just doing my mission. Alf: ...No, I'll go with you. I have to. L'Arc: ...Okay. (The party finds an elevator, but it is inactive) L'Arc: Is it broken? It might start moving with a supply of Ray... All right, let's do it! (The party delves deeper into the Shrine, looking for the controls. In the B3 Machinery area, the party finds a hallway guarded by lasers) L'Arc: Wh...? Uninvited quests should turn around and go back huh? I can't move on unless I cut this... (The party finds all three switches that disable the laser walls. At the end of the hallway where the lasers stood, a monster guards another switch) L'Arc: Grr... How many monsters are we going to have to fight to make it through here?! (The party enters battle with the monsters. They defeat them and flip the switch) L'Arc: That elevator should be getting Ray now. (The party finds and flips another switch, causing the lasers in front of the elevator in B3 to disappear. They ride the elevator to B4 Control Room. They find the Ray controlling device) Niko: Whoa, what the heck is that? Ryfia: What's this? Serge: Looks like it's just what you guys were looking for. L'Arc: So this is the Ray control device... Alf: I thought the Olquina Rogress was supposed to be protecting it, though. Adele: I sure don't see any. L'Arc: Well, good for us, then. Let's destroy it before any Rogress show up. Niko: Yeah... but how, Mr. L'Arc? I don't see an easy way to do that. L'Arc: The plan was to make a magic bomb to blow it up, but we kind of wound up here before we could... Let's just hit it with everything we've got. Use whatever magic you have, too. Ryfia: If that doesn't work, let's summon Simmah. L'Arc: Okay... Let's do it. Adele: Ah, wait a second...! L'Arc: What is it Adele? Adele: Are you really sure we should destroy this? Alf: It'll certainly raise the tensions between our two countries, that's for sure... L'Arc: ...I'm following military orders here. If you order us to fall back, that's fine by me. Alf: ...No. As long as this exists, our Empire will remain impoverished. If we cannot solve this problem diplomatically, there is no other solution... Serge: So, what's the order? Go, or no go? Alf: Engage at will, L'Arc. L'Arc: Roger that. (The party disables the machine. The shrine begins to shake) L'Arc: Hmmm... that shook up the place a bit. Serge: Yeah, let's get out of here! Quick! Ryfia: Okay, let's hurry! (The party runs for the exit, but they encounter the Deathchanter, accompanied by many zealots) Zealot: Dynos, they're here! Dynos: Ah, so you're the rats behind all this! Niko: That's the Deathchanter that attacked Jada! Dynos: Just what I'd expect from the Child of Eesa who chose Imaginal's Law. But I never thought you'd sneak in here to destroy the Skywalk! Adele: But... you're the ones monopolizing all the Ray! We had no choice! (Dynos notices Adele's pendant) Dynos: ...What is that pendant?! L'Arc: What do you know about that?! Hey... are you working with Ignacy? Alf: Are you the one who ordered the attack on Zamuel's School?! Ryfia: Is that true? So not only did you attack our Singing Ministry, but there, too...? Dynos: Hahahaha! Guess I was right under your nose all this time! (Dynos summons many Slave Wights) Niko: Mr. L'Arc... This isn't good! Dynos: It's almost high tide! This shrine will be surrounded by water if you don't hurry! (Dynos and the zealots begin to leave. He waves goodbye) Dynos: Of course, you'll probably be dead by then anyway! Alf: Wait! Just a minute! Why do you know about Adele's pendant? Serge: Sir Alf, this isn't the time for that! (The monsters approach. L'Arc draws his sword) L'Arc: ...Let's dust 'em! Come on! (The party kills the Slave Wights, but more begin to surround them) L'Arc: Let's go! (They run away. Niko trips over a disembodied monster hand) Niko: Hyaaa!!! (Niko knocks over Ryfia as he falls. Niko gets up and runs away, leaving Ryfia at the mercy of the monsters. L'Arc arrives and stabs one) L'Arc: Hurry up! (L'Arc picks her up) Ryfia: O-Okay... (They run towards Alf and Adele) Alf: Adele, let's go! (Adele runs off. L'Arc and Ryfia reunite with the party. They head for the entrance, fighting monsters along the way. At the entrance...) Niko: I think we can make it! (L'Arc punches Niko) Niko: Ow! L'Arc: That's for leaving Ryfia behind! Ryfia: It's okay. I'm not upset. Everyone's fine now, and I know Niko didn't mean anything bad by it. Niko: Ryfia... Alf: L'Arc, let's have this talk after we get out of the shrine. If our exit gets sealed off, it's us against that Deathchanter! L'Arc: ...You're right. Serge: Okay everyone, let's head back to town! (The party heads back to town) Serge: Whew! That was a close one. Alf: It sure was! L'Arc: We've completed our mission. Let's head back to the Meridian Empire! Niko: Um... Mr. L'Arc? L'Arc: What is it? Niko: What about what you were talking about before...? L'Arc: Well, Ryfia says it's no problem, so I guess it doesn't really matter what I think. Niko: Oh, thank you! L'Arc: Don't thank me. Thank Ryfia! Niko: Ryfia, sorry about before! Next time I'll make sure to protect you! Ryfia: I'll watch out for you too, Niko. Alf: If we want to reach the Empire, I suppose we'll have to take a pilgrimage ship. Adele: So... to the port, then? L'Arc: Yeah. We should get out of here as soon as we can. Let's move! [------------------------------------------------] [Oceansong Road and Return to Shrine--------(ORS)] [------------------------------------------------] (The party arrives at the port. They finds two pilgrims in front of a ship) L'Arc: We need this ship. ???: Stop! (A zealot appears) Zealot: Don't let them board that ship! Alf: Uh-oh, they've caught up to us! Ryfia: Please, let us on this ship! Pilgrim: But... (Serge knocks out both pilgrims) Alf: Serge! What are you doing? Serge: You want to get caught? I'll handle things here. Okay, now you guys get on the boat. See if you can take it over. L'Arc: Got it! (They run to the boat. Serge sticks his foot out and trips Niko) Niko: Agh! (Alf catches him) Zealot: Get her! Now! (Several zealots grab Adele) Adele: L-Let me go! Alf: Adele! (L'Arc and Alf run after her, but two zealots block them with their spears) L'Arc: Hey! What's going on? You mean you weren't after us? What do you want with Adele? Zealot: That's none of your business! (The party battles and defeats the zealots, with one remaining) Alf: Where did you take Adele?! Tell me! Zealot: I have nothing... to say... to you. L'Arc: Alf, move. (L'Arc swings his sword to threaten the zealot) Zealot: What the?! L'Arc: Oops, I missed. Too bad I won't miss next time. Alf: L'Arc! L'Arc: Don't stop me, Alf! Adele's life is on the line here! Alf: B-But... Serge: Make him talk, L'Arc. I'll go and search the area. (Serge leaves the party) L'Arc: Hmm, what should I aim for? The eyes? The ears? Maybe one finger at a time? Zealot: Please, don't... (L'Arc prepares to attack) L'Arc: I can't hear you! Zealot: T-The shrine! We were ordered to take her back to the shrine! Alf: All right. Ryfia, heal him, please. Ryfia: O-Okay... L'Arc: The shrine, eh...? Niko: What should we do, Mr. L'Arc? Alf: Do we have a choice? Adele's life is in our hands! We have to help her! To the shrine! Ryfia: You all go on ahead. I'll catch up to you after I heal this man. L'Arc: Niko, you stay here and help Ryfia. Alf, let's go! Alf: Okay! (Ryfia and Niko leave the party. L'Arc and Alf head for the shrine. They find Serge at the road leading to the shrine, which is currently submerged) Alf: Serge! Did the Olquinians that took Adele come through here?! Serge: Hey, whoa, calm down. Alf: Did they come through here or not?! Serge: Hold it, man! Get a grip on yourself! Some people left from here on a boat headed for the shrine. I think it might've been them. L'Arc: You didn't stop them?! Serge: They were already in the water by the time I spotted them. Alf: Was Adele okay? Serge: I think so. Maybe. L'Arc: Ngh... We'll need a boat, too. (Leslie, Ryfia and Niko appear) Leslie: I think there's a better way. L'Arc: Leslie! Ryfia: There's an underground passage that leads to the shrine from town. Alf: Really? Leslie: Yes. I actually need to visit the shrine myself, but I was planning to sneak in at low tide. But since SOMEBODY already broke into the shrine, it's been closed off. So, I had no other choice but to find an alternate route. Niko: Hmm, maybe we did make a bit of a scene... Leslie: Ah, so you caused all the commotion? L'Arc: Gee, what makes you think that?! Leslie: So what do you say? Want to work together on this? I don't think either of us has anything to lose. L'Arc: Who are you? Leslie: Well... Let's just say I'm an investigator. Ryfia: An investigator? Leslie: Yes. I'm looking into the murder of the Olquinians' Diva. Alf: Go with her, L'Arc. If we don't hurry, Adele's life could be in danger. L'Arc: Okay, show me the way. Leslie: So we have a deal? The entrance to the underground passage is right over there. Let's go! Serge: Sigh... Things just got a lot more difficult, didn't they? (Ryfia, Niko, Serge and Leslie join the party. They find the entrance to the underground passage) Leslie: Here it is. Go on inside. (Everyone minus Serge and Leslie heads through the gate) Serge: ............ Leslie: ...Okay, you too. Or are you staying behind? Serge: No, I'm going... Leslie: ............ (The party enters Oceansong Road) Niko: Sure is musty down here... Leslie: I'm looking forward to seeing how strong you all are in battle. L'Arc: You're going to be fighting too, you know! Leslie: My, my... You're not going to protect me? L'Arc: Please... You've had military training, haven't you? Leslie: Tee hee! You think someone this beautiful is a military girl? Serge: Forget about it, L'Arc. How about both of you just mind your own business? Wouldn't want her to find out who we really are now, would we? Ryfia: L'Arc, exactly how polite should I be with this person? L'Arc: Just don't tell her too much about yourself. Whatever else you say is up to you. Ryfia: Okay. Leslie: Aww, how cute. Nice to meet you, Ryfia! Ryfia: Nice to meet you too, Leslie. Alf: Adele... (The party progresses further into Oceansong Road until they come to an area with two pools of water) Niko: Mr. L'Arc, are we there yet? I'm exhausted. L'Arc: How the heck should I know? I've never been here before! Leslie: We should be coming up on the exit soon. Ryfia: Be strong, Niko. Adele is all alone right now. She needs us. We have to help her. Alf: Ryfia's right. Hang in there, Niko. Niko: Urgh... Wait up a second. At least let me wash my face real quick. (Niko washes his face from one of the pools of water) Niko: Whoa, that's cold...! Serge: Hey, isn't that seawater? If you wash with that, won't you get all sticky and gross...? (The place begins to rumble) L'Arc: What the...? (A giant shrimp-like monster appears) Ryfia: Wow, L'Arc...! What a huge shrimp...! Leslie: Might be a tasty appetizer. ...But maybe it's thinking likewise! Serge: Look out! (The party fights and defeats the giant shrimp, Afank) Serge: That monster was huge, but he couldn't compare to me! Ryfia: I don't now, Serge. He sure looked a whole lot bigger than you... Serge: Umm, I didn't mean literally... Alf: Let's get going, you guys! (The party leaves. Serge stays behind for a second) Serge: He's right. Let's go! (The party leaves Oceansong Road and comes out on the other side of the lake) L'Arc: Oh, so this is where the passageway leads to... Niko: It sure is quiet. Serge: That's because it's high tide. There aren't any pilgrims in the shrine right now. Alf: But where are the guards? They should be everywhere after what we did at the Skywalk. Serge: Probably staking us out as we speak, no doubt. We had best proceed with extreme caution. Alf: We don't have time for that! The Olquinians think that these are the end times. What if something happens to Adele?! L'Arc: Alf, calm down. If they were planning to kill Adele, they wouldn't have kidnapped her. Niko: B-But maybe they want her as a human sacrifice or something... Leslie: I don't think human sacrifice is part of their religion. Ryfia: Where could Adele be...? L'Arc: The only thing underground was the Skywalk ruins. She has to be somewhere up top. Serge: Then let's search for her while we head up! (The party travels to the top of the shrine. There, Adele is wearing a Diva dress and is singing a hymn. Dynos is there too, as well as many Zealots) L'Arc: Adele! Adele: ...L'Arc! Dynos: How dare you disturb our sacred ritual, Imaginal Diva! (The zealots prepare for battle) Adele: Dynos, stop it! Dynos: Move! (The zealots move to allow Adele to run over to L'Arc) Adele: L'Arc! (Adele and Ryfia's chests glow. Adele is repelled from getting near L'Arc, and falls down) Adele: Ahhhhhhhh! (Dynos comes to her aid) Dynos: Diva, he has already chosen Imaginal's Law. All we can do now is kill him and begin our search for a new Child of Eesa. Adele: No...! Didn't I tell you? If I follow the path of my mother, the Diva, then the Child of Eesa can be mine. Dynos: You're right. But he has already decided to oppose us. You can't be with the Child of Eesa if he's already chosen. He's an agent of Imaginal now. Adele: I don't care! I want to... I thought... I could be with L'Arc, like Ryfia! That's why... Ryfia: Adele... Are you truly the Real Diva? Alf: Adele... What are you talking about? Dynos: Address her properly! Lady Adele is the only daughter of the late Diva Ms. Rafil. Thus, she will reign as Diva of Olquinaism, teacher of Real's Law. L'Arc: Adele is the daughter of a Diva? But how?! Alf and I have been friends with her since we were kids... Niko: But didn't Zamuel say Adele wasn't related to him by blood? Isn't that right? Leslie: Zamuel? Zamuel the Crimson Mist? Zamuel of the Lord Knights? Serge: Seems that way. Dynos: The late Diva knew her life was in danger, so she entrusted her daughter to the Lord Knights... ...and instructed them to take care of her until such time when she could return. Alf: So Adele is the Diva of Olquinaism? (The shrine begins to shake) L'Arc: W-What the...?! (A zealot appears and runs up the stairs to the top of the shrine) Zealot: Dynos! The Meridian Empire! The Meridian Empire's Lightships are attacking the city! (A fleet of Meridian Lightships appears and attacks the city by firing lasers) Alf: Weiss, how could you do this without a formal declaration of war?! Dynos: Lady Adele! The Diva ritual is complete! Awake the Rogress Girtab from his slumber and protect us at once! (The area begins to shake again) Ryfia: Agh... (The rumble stops) Ryfia: L'Arc! Are you hurt...? L'Arc: I'm fine. But, what's the Meridian Empire doing here...? (Adele and Dynos approach the shrine's altar) Alf: Adele! Wait! (Alf runs after them) Leslie: L'Arc, what's going on? L'Arc: I have no idea. Let's listen to what Adele has to say. (Adele begins to sing in order to awaken Girtab. Pink and purple energy surround her. Girtab is awakened) Leslie: Is that Girtab, the Rogress controlled by the Diva of Olquinaism? (Weiss and several Meridian soldiers appear) Weiss: What are you doing? Just kill the Diva! L'Arc: Sir Weiss?! (Two zealots try to attack Weiss, but he knocks them away. Dynos also attacks but Weiss knocks him away too) Weiss: L'Arc, good work! Our Ray stream is full to bursting again! Girtab's release was your fault, but at least you succeeded in restoring the Ray! L'Arc: Wait... That was your plan? You got us to seal away Girtab... Then use that opportunity to attack?! Alf: Weiss, why?! This is nothing more than a sneak attack! Weiss: And what's wrong with that? Olquinaism and the deity Real are nothing but a disease. This plague threatens all humankind. We must eliminate them before they can spread any further. Alf: Weiss, was it really our Empire that... that killed the Diva? Weiss: Diva you say? What do you mean? She's not dead. The Diva is right over there! Now go, attack the Diva controlling Girtab! (Alf puts him self between Adele and Weiss) Alf: Brother, just wait! Weiss: Out of my way! Alf: No! We may be brothers, but I'll fight you before I let you harm Adele! Weiss: Then you will die with her! (Weiss tries to attack but L'Arc blocks it) Weiss: L'Arc, what are you doing?! L'Arc: Weiss, your Highness, what good can possibly come of fratricide? Weiss: Then you shouldn't be raising your sword against me, either... L'Arc: W-what...? (Weiss knocks L'Arc away) Weiss: Begone, Evil Diva! You're nothing but Real's puppet! (Weiss prepares to attack Adele. Girtab notices) L'Arc: Sir Weiss! Watch out! (Girtab attacks Weiss but L'Arc summons Simmah to block the attack with one of his own. Adele gets hit by the force of the attack) Adele: Aghhhhhhhh! (Adele faints) Alf: Adele?! (Alf catches her. Their holding hands begin to glow) Dynos: No... could there be...another... Child of Eesa...? Ryfia: I thought there could only be one Child of Eesa at any time! Alf: L'Arc! Why did you summon Simmah?! L'Arc: If I hadn't, Sir Weiss would have been killed... Adele: Ha ha ha... Ahh ha ha hah! Alf: Adele... Adele: Yes... I see how it is. You'll protect Ryfia with your life, huh? Yet it's fine and dandy if I get hit by a Rogress' attack?! L'Arc: No! I had no idea it was this powerful... Adele: Gahhh ha ha ha ha hah! This is crazy! Ha ha ha ha ha... Ahhh ha ha ha ha ha ha! Girtab... Kill them all! Not just Weiss... but Ryfia and L'Arc, too! All of them! All of them! Kill every last one! (Adele faints. Girtab powers up and roars) Alf: Girtab, stop! (Girtab stops. Alf picks up Adele) Alf: Now is not the time to fight. We need to get to a safe location first. You must protect Adele. Please, Girtab! L'Arc: Girtab is listening to Alf?! (Weiss picks up his sword but Serge throws one of his knives but misses) Weiss: Hmph! L'Arc: Serge! Serge: Sorry, L'Arc. Just part of my contract. Dynos: Your friend Serge here is really just a mercenary hired by Olquina to protect Lady Adele. Serge: He's right. My job is to deliver Adele safely to Antrax. Thanks for thinking I was a bandit! That made things a lot easier. L'Arc: Serge, you betrayed us! Serge: Betray you? How do you even know who's on whose side? Alf: ...He's right. I can't be the way I've always been. L'Arc: Alf... Alf: Look... the way the Empire does things is just wrong! I couldn't stop this military advance... I don't deserve the title of prince. L'Arc: Alf, what are you talking about...? Alf: I'm abandoning the Meridian Empire. No... I'm only leaving it so that I can save it. L'Arc: Alf! (L'Arc tries to run after him, but Leslie shoots her guns in front of L'Arc's feet, stopping him) L'Arc: Leslie! What are you doing?! Leslie: I like you... I really do. But I have a job to do. (Alf and Adele are now on top of Girtab) Alf: ...Leslie, if you want to come with me, I'd really enjoy your company. Leslie: I guess I can do that. (Leslie climbs up on Girtab's hand. Alf, Adele, Dynos, Serge and Leslie fly away on Girtab) L'Arc: Alf! Alf: Until next time, L'Arc... (L'Arc, Ryfia and Niko rest back at the Finite Sparkle Inn) Niko: L'Arc! Prince Weiss said he would meet with us! L'Arc: ...He's turning the shrine into a Meridian base, isn't he? Ryfia: Why are we meeting with him again, L'Arc? L'Arc: We finished our mission. We have to report back to him. Ryfia/Niko: ............ (The party leaves to meet with Weiss at the shrine. They meet with a Meridian soldier outside the Fire Librarium room of the Shrine, which is where Weiss is) L'Arc: I'm first sergeant L'Arc Bright Lagoon, Imperial legionnaire. Imperial Soldier: We've been expecting you. Go on through. (The party meets with Weiss inside the Fire Librarium) Weiss: Here to discuss your reward, L'Arc? L'Arc: Have you heard anything about Alf? Weiss: Not a thing. He's probably gone and got himself killed somewhere. Gruene will be so heartbroken! First she was exiled from nobility for poisoning my mother, and now this. Now she's lost any chance of being mother to the Emperor, the poor thing. L'Arc: Sir Weiss, why did you attack Olquina? Weiss: Olquina? Because they're guided by Real's Law. They wanted to enslave us in order to spread Real's Law throughout the world. Niko: Enslave us...? Weiss: They told us to destroy the Turemilian Republic in exchange for steady Ray provisions. Those extremists make me sick! L'Arc: What is Real's Law, exactly? Ryfia: It is everything, and nothing. It calls for us to return to the earth, and welcome oblivion. Weiss: Correct. Real's Law is a school of thought that proposes that all living things should die. Why should our Empire follow a god and religion that forces the apocalypse upon all of us? Ryfia: Did you order us to go to Antrax with the intention of attacking Olquina all along? Weiss: With Girtab sealed, this land is all too simple to invade. The Skywalk was just an excuse... L'Arc: ...Did you order the assassination of the previous Diva? Weiss: The girl who threatened the destruction of our country? Do you think I'd give the pleasure of killing her to someone else? I thought it would be fitting. Imagine, having her die at dawn in Antrax, like the good little end times Diva she was! Ryfia/Niko: ............ L'Arc: ...Why didn't you tell us your real plan from the beginning? Weiss: Because you are the Child of Eesa. L'Arc: !!! Weiss: Diva, tell us the story of Genesis. Ryfia: ...In the beginning there was chaos. A world of death enveloped in Hozone. In the center of this chaos, the god Eesa created Real and Imaginal in his own image. By picking the laws they represent, the Hymn of Ruination was destroyed and the paradise of Noire was born. So went the beginning of this world. Niko: But that's just a legend... Weiss: If you think that makes it false, then you are very naive indeed.. Ryfia: Gods do exist. We are guided by their laws in the Holy Land of Noire. L'Arc: If you're religious, maybe... Weiss: They do, L'Arc. Deny it all you want, but it is true. L'Arc: You believe in them, Sir Weiss? Weiss: I don't believe. I know! The gods rule over this world. The Child of Eesa is essentially a compass that guides that rule. L'Arc: So I'm... a compass for the gods? I don't get it. Weiss: You don't have to. Just realize that you have chosen Imaginal's Law. If you've chosen a Law, you're my enemy. I'm not the sort to keep my enemies by my side. After completing your next mission, I will be revoking your legionnaire contract. L'Arc: What?! Weiss: You will go to the Turemilian Senate as an official Meridian emissary. Deliver this letter to Head Senator Shelly Greenhill. L'Arc: ............ Weiss: Is there a problem? L'Arc: N-No sir... Weiss: I've left your reward up to Freya in Diamant. Stop by there before heading to the Republic. There's a Lightship waiting for you outside town. It is yours to use during the mission. L'Arc: Understood. Thank you for everything. Weiss: I have one more thing to say. You are your own ruler. Never forget that! (The party leaves the Fire Librarium) L'Arc: So much for legionnaire work. Guess I'm just a plain old mercenary now, huh? Niko: I can't believe you're going to be leaving the Imperial Army... Ryfia: I'm sorry. L'Arc: Why are you apologizing? Ryfia: Prince Weiss ended your contract because you chose Imaginal's Law, right? In that case, it's all my fault. L'Arc: It's okay. To be honest, I didn't like how the Imperial Army attacked civilians... Ryfia: ...But the worst part was when Prince Weiss wouldn't believe you, am I right? L'Arc: ............ Niko: Hey, what's all this Imaginal's Law stuff about, anyway? If Real is destruction... Ryfia: Imaginal is creation. It is a law that seeks to facilitate improvement and change for all. Niko: Well, I guess you have that going for you, eh? At least the Law you chose isn't anything all that weird. L'Arc: I chose that Law without really thinking about it, to be honest... Ryfia: I'm glad you chose the way you did. Niko: Well, I made up my mind too! My fate is in your hands! L'Arc: What?! Niko: I'm going to quit the military, become a mercenary and follow you wherever you go! L'Arc: ...I see. Niko: ...What? You aren't gonna say no to me, are you? L'Arc: ...Everybody's gone. Serge and Leslie... they may have only been my friends for a short time, but... You know, if they just up and leave on you like that... Ryfia: ...It's lonely, I know. L'Arc: No, that's not what I mean! I'm not lonely, I just... you know... Ryfia/Niko: Ha ha ha! L'Arc: Ugh, stop laughing at me! Let's get out of here. (The party leaves the shrine and prepares to leave Antrax. They meet with Imperial Soldiers at the entrance to Antrax) Imperial Soldier: First Sergeant Lagoon, I'll show you to the Lightship. Are you ready to go? L'Arc: Yes, we're ready. (The party rides the Lightship back to Diamant) [---------------------------------] [Diamant Second Visit--------(DSV)] [---------------------------------] (The party arrives at Diamant Royal City) Imperial Soldier: We'll be in the hangar if you need us. Go there when you're ready to depart for the Republic. (The soldier rides the lift to the hangar) Ryfia: Hey L'Arc, let's go see Zamuel before we leave. L'Arc: That's a good idea. I'm worried about him, and I'm sure he's worried about us since we haven't been back yet. Niko: Okay then, let's go! (The party enters Zamuel's Martial Arts School and meets with Cecille again) Cecille: Whoa! L'Arc?! L'Arc: Cecille?! Cecille: What have you been up to?! You haven't been back home in forever! Everyone's worried about ya! L'Arc: Sorry. There's been so much going on since I left... Cecille: Ahh, we can talk later! For now, let's go back to Zamuel's! L'Arc: Is he really doing that bad? Cecille: The doctor just said to prepare yourself, that's all. Anyway, you need to see him! He's been worried about you guys... (The party and Cecille enter Zamuel's room and find Elena talking to the Doctor) Doctor: His internal organs have already begun to crystallize. There's really nothing we can do for him now. Elena: Oh, no...! Doctor: It's a miracle he's breathing right now, to be honest. If you'll excuse me, then... (L'Arc confronts them) Elena: L'Arc! L'Arc: Mom... what's going on? Ryfia: The doctor couldn't do anything for Zamuel? Elena: No. He couldn't stop the process. Nobody can. Nobody knows why it's happening to him. Ryfia: I can't believe it... (The party finds Zamuel laying in bed) Zamuel: (Weak) L'Arc... is that you...? L'Arc: Grampa! Zamuel: Where's... Adele? L'Arc: She's... she was kidnapped by the Olquinians in Antrax. Zamuel: Oh... so she took on her role as Diva, in the end... L'Arc: What do you mean? Ryfia: Wait, L'Arc! Zamuel's in a lot of pain. Don't make him talk if he doesn't... Zamuel: It's fine, Ryfia... I'm going to die soon, anyway... I have to tell him the truth before I pass on... It's been 15 years since that day... The Diva of Olquinaism at the time was being targeted by a man named Ignacy. To keep her daughter from harm's way, she asked us, the Lord Knights, to take her into custody. Elena: The contract stated that Adele would take over as Diva if something happened to her mother. So Zamuel raised her as his own granddaughter... Until that day. L'Arc: You knew about all this?! Elena: Yes. So did your father, rest his soul, and Leon too. We kept it a secret to protect Adele from whatever danger she was in. Zamuel: I feel as if a great weight has been lifted from my shoulders. If we couldn't fulfil our contract, it would have ruined the Lord Knights' name. Heh heh... *cough cough* L'Arc: Grampa?! Ryfia: Zamuel! Zamuel: Looks like... Rex has finally come for me... L'Arc: Grampa! Don't leave us! Zamuel: L'Arc... Tell Leon... I'll be celebrating our success on the other side... just a little earlier than you... L'Arc: Grampa... Zamuel! Master! (Zamuel dies. The group plans and attends his funeral. The day after his funeral, L'Arc is in his room. Ryfia visits him) L'Arc: Oh, Ryfia... Sorry to drag you into helping with Grampa's funeral. (Ryfia hugs L'Arc) L'Arc: What're you...?! Ryfia: ...Any time I was sad or hurt, my mother would always hug me like this. L'Arc: ...! Ryfia: L'Arc... (Cecille enters) Cecille: Hey L'Arc! I need to ask you somethi... Huh?! L'Arc: W-Wait! It's not what you think! Cecille: Oh, excuse me! I didn't mean to interrupt! Please, do continue! (Cecille leaves) Ryfia: Cecille sure is acting strange... L'Arc: ............ (L'Arc and Ryfia leave L'Arc's house and enter Zamuel's Martial Arts School. They find Cecille talking to Elena) Elena: Good morning, L'Arc. L'Arc: Mom, are you sure it's okay for you to be on your feet? Elena: Oh, I'm fine. Since Zamuel passed, I have a lot more things I have to do around here... Cecille: Ooh! You done now, ladies' man? L'Arc: ...What did you need to talk to me about? Cecille: Oh! I heard from Niko that you guys were going to Carbunculus after this. Is that true? L'Arc: Yeah. It's our last mission. When I'm done with it, I'll be free of the Imperial Army for good. Cecille: That sounds great! Take me with you! L'Arc: Why would I do that? Cecille: I want to get revenge for Zamuel! L'Arc: What do you mean "revenge"? Wait. You mean... Ignacy is in Carbunculus? Cecille: According to Leon... I mean Rastan, yes. Ryfia: Why are you talking about Rastan all of a sudden? Cecille: Because he's the one that said Ignacy's base is in Carbunculus. We thought he had captured you guys or something! Rastan is already heading for Carbunculus now. L'Arc: Leon is going to Carbunculus?! Elena: ............ L'Arc: Well, we can't just sit here. I need to go as soon as I can. Cecille: Me too! I wanna go, too! Please? C'mon, take me too! L'Arc: I can't. You're a civilian. This is a military operation. Cecille: But what about Ryfia?! L'Arc: We're taking her because she was born in Turemilia. I'm going to be dropping her off there once the mission's over. Cecille: That's not faaaaaaiiiiiiirrrrrrr! Ryfia: L'Arc, let's take Cecille with us. L'Arc: We aren't going out on a field trip, you know. Cecille: ...Hmph! You're only taking Ryfia 'cause you think she's cute! L'Arc: Who? Me? Cecille: Well, fine! See if I care! I'll get revenge for Gramps all by myself! (Cecille runs out) Ryfia: Are you sure you should let that little girl go off by herself like that, L'Arc? L'Arc: Ahh, just let her go. What about Niko, though? Where's he? Elena: Someone from the military needed to see him. He's talking to them outside. I think it was General Freya. L'Arc: Probably haggling over the mission pay, no doubt. (L'Arc and Ryfia go outside and find Niko talking to General Freya) Niko: Oh, Mr. L'Arc! What's going on? Cecille just came by yelling "L'Arc's nothing but a big pervert!" L'Arc: Ngh... spoiled brat! Freya: First Sergeant Lagoon, I have word about your reward for the Antrax mission from Prince Weiss. L'Arc: Yeah? The deal said he'd pay as much as I needed. Freya: The Emperor stated that he would provide enough to guarantee Elena a comfortable existence. In addition to medical costs, he has agreed to pay you 100000 Rico a month in financial aid. L'Arc: You're... serious? Freya: Oh, yes. He thought you would be most satisfied with that. (Elena appears) Elena: I can't take that much money! L'Arc: Mom... Freya: You do not have the right to refuse it. This agreement has been forged between the prince and First Sergeant Lagoon. L'Arc: Just take it, Mom. This way, I can run my next mission without worrying about you. Elena: L'Arc... Freya: If you're satisfied with this, First Sergeant Lagoon, I will take my leave. I'll handle all the paperwork here. Have a pleasant trip to Carbunculus. L'Arc: Thank you. Freya: If you become a mercenary, we may just be enemies the next time we meet. (She leaves) L'Arc: What were you talking about with General Freya, Niko? Niko: I asked for permission to resign, of course! L'Arc: Oh yeah, I remember you saying something about that... Elena: L'Arc... L'Arc: Well, you heard him. Guess you don't have to worry about making ends meet anymore. Anyway, I have to go now. I have a job to do. Take care of everything around here, okay? Elena: I... Never mind. Just be careful... Ryfia: Elena, it was a pleasure. Elena: The pleasure was all mine. Have a safe trip back to the Republic. L'Arc: Okay, you two, let's get out of here. (Niko joins the party. They head for the Lightship hangar and then enter the Lightship Docks) Imperial Soldier: Are you ready to depart? L'Arc: Yep, everything's fine. Imperial Soldier: Okay then, let's get heading for Carbunculus. (Cecille enters the hangar) Cecille: That big stupid dummy L'Arc! I can't believe he'd leave the great hero Cecille behind! I'll show him! ............ I'll just sneak in here and no one will ever notice... (The party boards the Lightship and it sets out for Carbunculus) [------------------------------------] [Carbunculus First Visit--------(CFV)] [------------------------------------] (Inside the ship, a soldier discovers Cecille stowed away on the ship. He brings Cecille to where L'Arc and Ryfia are) Imperial Soldier: Captain! We've found a stowaway onboard. Ryfia: Cecille! Cecille: Hee hee hee... Captain: First Sergeant Lagoon, do you know her? L'Arc: ... Yes, unfortunately. Captain: Hmm. We'll have to turn back for the Empire, I suppose... L'Arc: I'm sorry Captain, but would it be okay to take her with us? Captain: You want a military Lightship to taxi some child around? L'Arc: I just thought it would be a waste of time to turn around now, sir. We've traveled a long way... Captain: Hmph. Abusing your friendship with the prince again, eh? L'Arc: ............ Captain: Lock the child up in the cabin. We'll kick her out in Carbunculus. Imperial Soldier: Yes sir! Cecille: Thank you, L'Arc... (The Lightship reaches Carbunculus. The party and the Lightship Captain enter the city and are greeted by Avlice, a senator) Avlice: I'm assuming there's no hostile intent in your actions, am I right? L'Arc: Of course. I am only here to deliver this letter from the prince of the Meridian Empire. I am L'Arc Bright Lagoon, legionnaire of the Meridian Empire. (The Captain salutes. Ryfia walks forward) L'Arc: Just leave this to me. Ryfia: What? Really? Avlice: Lagoon? Are... are you Lagoon the Cursed?! Niko: W-What's he talking about...? Avlice: The one who murdered the Diva of Olquinaism and brought death and destruction to Olquina... You are that wicked, evil Lagoon, are you not? Ryfia: N-No! L'Arc had nothing to do with the Diva's death! Avlice: But you did infiltrate Antrax and lead the army to the shrine, no? Thus bringing death and destruction to the city? Am I wrong? Ryfia: B-But... L'Arc: Enough, Ryfia! I have a letter from the prince addressed to the Head Senator of Turemilia. Please, let me speak with her. Avlice: Hmph. Nothing but a pawn for the evil Empire. From here on out you will follow our orders, understood? L'Arc: Yes sir. Avlice: Everyone besides the Cursed, return to your Lightship and leave our land at once! Captain: But how will First Sergeant Lagoon... Avlice: We will send him back to the Imperial capital when we determine that it is safe. If your messenger is that same Lagoon, we can't allow the Imperial Army to stay within our borders. We do not want the events of Olquina to happen to us. Captain: ...Yes sir. Avlice: Mr. Lagoon, please stay at the inn until further instructions. We'll prepare a room for you. In the meantime, we will inform the Senate of your intentions. The Turemilian Republic is a nation of freedom. Behave, and we will honor your freedom as well. If you would like to walk around town, please do so at your leisure. (Avlice leaves) Captain: We'll release Cecille here. Can the other two stay? Ryfia: I am always by L'Arc's side. Niko: Yep! No way am I leaving him behind! L'Arc: Uh, Niko... (Cecille joins them) Cecille: Woohoo! Freedom! Yayyyyy! How could you lock up Cecille, the Messenger of Justice, like that?! Captain: ...I'll be on my way now. (The Captain leaves) Cecille: So I can stay with you guys until you meet with the Head Senator, right? I heard the whole story. L'Arc: ...Whatever. Cecille: Woo-hooooo! (Cecille joins the party. Walking through the city, the party visits the fountain in the middle of the town square. Luze and Saura are nearby) Niko: Wow! So this is the capital of the Republic. Cecille: Turemilia's really just an assembly of city-states, so... Every city is autonomous to some extent. It's a little different from the Meridian Empire. Ryfia: Really? I had no idea. L'Arc: What? Aren't you from here? Ryfia: Yes, but as a Diva, I was taught nothing except Diva matters. L'Arc: I wouldn't be so proud of that education myself... (Niko bumps into Luze) Luze/Niko: Whoa! ...... Ah! Saura: Luze! Luze: It's okay, Saura... Ryfia: Niko, are you okay? L'Arc: What are you doing...? Luze: You... Didn't we meet in Diamant? L'Arc: Oh! Aren't you guys... preachers of Noireism...? Luze: Correct. I'm Luze. L'Arc: That's right! I remember now. What a coincidence, huh? I'm L'Arc Bright Lagoon. Luze: Lagoon... L'Arc: Oh, uh, before you say anything... Luze: All I know is, we were complete strangers, and you still saved our lives. L'Arc: Well... Saura: You probably shouldn't utter that name around these parts, though. L'Arc: Yeah. Thanks for the warning. Saura: It's almost time, Luze. Luze: Okay. L'Arc, just as you chose Imaginal's Law, another Child of Eesa has chosen Real's Law. You must hurry... Otherwise, your choice will have been made in vain. (Luze begins to leave) L'Arc: H-Hey! Wait! Tell me more! Luze: That is all I know, I am simply relaying Eesa's message. L'Arc: Hang on! Saura: Excuse me! We're leaving now! (They leave) Ryfia: Another Child of Eesa...? Alf, perhaps? L'Arc: W-what if he is? Ryfia: A Child of Eesa must choose one of the two laws. They must first form a bond with the Rogress, then present the Law to Eesa. That's why there can only be one Child of Eesa. L'Arc: Not that I really care about this stuff, but why can't there by two? If Alf's become a Child of Eesa, I'll just let him handle that stuff from now on. Niko: But the other one's chosen Real's Law, Mr. L'Arc. Doesn't that mean... destruction? L'Arc: It just means whoever chooses it wants to spread the idea of "Let's all die together!" Right? Little weird if you ask me, but it's not like it's gonna touch off the end of the world. Cecille: Hey, what's with all this crazy talk? L'Arc: Heh. Yeah. Sorry. Let's just forget about it. Ryfia: ............ (The party heads to the Senate building and converses with the two guards guarding it) Gate Guard: This is the Senate building. Authorized personnel only, please. L'Arc: I am L'Arc Bright Lagoon, legionnaire of the Meridian Empire. I have a letter from the prince for Director Greenhill. Gate Guard: Lagoon the Cursed?! We've, er, been expecting you. Right this way, please... (The guards allow them to pass) L'Arc: Well, it's just you and me from here, Niko. Niko: Huh?! Me?! Ryfia: I want to go too, L'Arc! Cecille: Me tooooooo! L'Arc: Funny how the only people who want to go can't get in. Just pipe down, okay, guys? (Ryfia and Cecille leave the party. L'Arc and Niko enter the Senate. They enter the Conference Hall and meet with Director Shelly Greenhill, along with other Senators and soldiers) L'Arc: Good afternoon. Shelly: What a surprise! Who'd have thought such a notorious name belonged to such a young boy! Niko: Hey, you're pretty young yourself... L'Arc: Quiet, Niko! I am L'Arc Bright Lagoon. I bring with me a letter from the prince. (A soldier takes the letter and gives it to the Director. She reads it) Shelly: ...I see. So that's why the Meridian Empire sent you to our Republic. The rumors about you leading the Olquina operation were true, then. Arrest this fool at once! (Soldiers surround L'Arc and Niko) L'Arc: What?! What's going on?! Shelly: What does it look like? We will never yield to the will of the Empire! Senator 1: Director! What was written in that letter? Shelly: It demands an unconditional surrender to the Empire. Our failure to comply will result in a declaration of war! L'Arc: W-What...?! Senator 1: Weiss, you scoundrel!! You want to invade us just like you did Olquina! Senator 2: Director! We can't let that rogue nation get away with this! Senator 3: Now is the time for the Turemilian Republic to stand up and fight back! Senator 4: Agreed! L'Arc: Ugh. Thanks a lot, Sir Weiss... So I'm just your little pawn, huh? Shelly: Lock this shameless emissary in the dungeon immediately! (The soldiers take L'Arc and Niko) Niko: L-Let us go! We don't know anything about this! (L'Arc and Niko are thrown into the Senate dungeon. In their cell, Niko is banging on the door) Niko: Let us out! Let us out! L'Arc: Give it up. You're only shouting yourself hoarse. Niko: What are you talking about? If we don't get out of here, we'll be put to death! L'Arc: Don't worry. I have a plan. Niko: Seriously?! L'Arc: Yeah. Remember, I have Simmah. Next time they bring us food, we'll break out and take the guard hostage. Niko: Then we'll make our escape... Got it! (To pass the time, L'Arc talks to the Kopin and Niko) L'Arc: So you got thrown in here too eh? Kopin: There is no morning or night here. There is only infinite silence. L'Arc: ...That's nice and all, but you really don't look like the type of person to say that kind of stuff. Niko: I knew I could count on you Mr. L'Arc! I'm never gonna leave your side! (They hear the guard approaching) L'Arc: ...Here he comes. Niko: Okay... I'm ready! (They hear one of Ryfia's hymns) L'Arc: Wait, that's not... (Ryfia and Cecille appear) Cecille: Ta-dahh! The Just Hero, Cecille here! Ryfia: The Just Diva, Ryfia... here! L'Arc: ...What the heck are you two doing?! Ryfia: When I heard you were captured, I talked to Cecille, and we sort of made a plan. Cecille: I owed you one from back on the Lightship, and helping people in trouble is what a hero does, right? L'Arc: ...You guys are crazy! (Cecille unlocks the cell door, freeing L'Arc and Niko) Niko: Good job, girls! Now let's get out of here! L'Arc: Yeah. Thanks, you two! Ryfia: No problem. Oh, and here is your equipment. We got it back for you. L'Arc: Perfect! (Ryfia and Cecille rejoin the party. They explore the dungeon, trying to find a way out and fighting Republic soldiers along the way. They are ambushed by two soldiers) Cecille: Hah! The servants of evil are upon us! Niko: "Servants of evil"? Are you still trying to play superhero right now? Ryfia: They're coming from behind, L'Arc! (Two more soldiers appear behind them) L'Arc: ...Gah! They cornered us! (Rastan arrives on the scene and kills the two soldiers in front of the party) L'Arc: You...! Cecille: Leon?! Rastan: Don't just stand there! They're coming at us from behind! L'Arc: We know! (Rastan joins the party. They battle and defeat all the soldiers) L'Arc: Leon... Rastan: How many times do I have to tell you? My name is Rastan! L'Arc: Fine, Rastan. Why are you here? Rastan: I heard a rumor around town that you had been captured... And, well, I needed to ask you some questions. I thought I'd bust you out of here, but I guess I'm too late, huh? L'Arc: Oh, no. I appreciate it. Besides, I needed to talk to you. For now, let's get out of here. Rastan: Sounds like a plan. (The party finds a stairway. They walk up the stairs and appear in the Senate building's lobby. Several soldiers and a Senator are nearby) Republic Soldier: I checked the whole dungeon. They must have gotten away. Their equipment's missing, too. Senator: We're dealing with Lagoon the Cursed here! We can't let him escape! Republic Soldier: Yes sir! (Back with the party...) Rastan: They probably have the exits guarded by now. Breaking out of here's gonna be tough. Cecille: Are we gonna force our way through? Is there any other way? Rastan: There should be another route out of this dungeon. Let's look for one! Ryfia: He's right, L'Arc. We shouldn't try to fight all of them. Someone might get hurt. L'Arc: Yeah... But why do you know all this stuff, Rastan? Rastan: Don't you trust me? L'Arc: I was just wondering... but either way, an alternate route's our only chance. Let's go! (Back in the dungeon, the party looks for another route to get out to. Downstairs, they find a suspicious-looking wall inside a cell. The wall opens, revealing a passageway) Ryfia: Maybe we can get out this way... Rastan: Hmm, looks like it. Niko: Funny how we keep getting in pinches like this ever since Olquina, huh? Rastan: Olquina... Why did you guys head for Olquina from the Mandelro Coast, anyway? L'Arc: Well, about that... (L'Arc tells him everything) Rastan: ...The attackers on the Mandelro Coast were sent by Ignacy. Ryfia: How do you know? Rastan: Paula and I have crossed swords before. Ignacy runs an assassin group called QED. He's interfered with the Republic government before. L'Arc: So the Senate has ties to Ignacy? Rastan: I have no concrete evidence, but some of the top Republic brass have ties with Ignacy. Ryfia: That's terrible... The Turemilian Republic is supposed to be a righteous country that upholds Imaginal's Law. Cecille: Well, let's get out of here so we can take care of those bad guys, then! L'Arc: What with that declaration of war I brought along, I'm kind of the only real bad guy here... (The party enters the escape route and ends up inside a house in the city) L'Arc: Where are we...? Rastan: It's an empty house next to the Senate. Let's blend in with the town before anyone comes looking for us. (The party leaves the house) L'Arc: Whew! We escaped! Looks like they don't have any search teams in town yet. Rastan: It's only a matter of time before they do. We should get away from here as soon as possible. Niko: But we're in foreign territory. The Lightship isn't coming back for us. How do we leave? Ryfia: We can try making our way to Benetnasch, can't we? Cecille: Oh, yeah. Aren't you from Benetnasch, Ryfia? Ryfia: Yes, and Hosea may be able to help us there. Rastan: Hosea... Isn't he the patriarch of North Noireism? Ryfia: Yes, he is. Cecille: Wow... You know somebody that high up, Ryfia? Ryfia: Is he really that amazing? Niko: He's a patriarch, right? That's pretty high up there, I think. Rastan: That probably gives him some influence over the Senate, but... L'Arc: Is there a problem? Rastan: No... Not for any of you, anyway. L'Arc: Well, I don't know, but it sounds like a decent plan to me. Let's head out for Benetnasch. I don't think we have any other choice at this point. Niko: So how do we get to Benetnasch from here, Ryfia? Ryfia: I don't really know... I never left town before. Cecille: Oh... Great. Rastan: Benetnasch is northwest of here. L'Arc: Oh? Well, good. Let's move. (The party leaves Carbunculus and sets out for Benetnasch) [-----------------------------------] [Benetnasch First Visit--------(BFV)] [-----------------------------------] (The party reaches Benetnasch City and converses with the guards at the entrance to the city) Commander: You're imperial mercenary L'Arc Bright Lagoon, aren't you?! L'Arc: I can't believe they've already got people looking for us this far afield... Commander: Are you Rastan of the Aion Unit? Ryfia: Aion Unit? You? Rastan: ............ Niko: What's the Aion Unit? Ryfia: The Aion Unit is dedicated to the protection of North Noireism. Commander: Hah, never thought I'd find Rastan the traitor out here, too! How nice! Now I can take you both in at once! (The soldiers take the party into custody and lead them into the city) Niko: Well, here we are again... L'Arc: Yeah, but this time they've even apprehended Ryfia... Cecille: Say, who is this Ryfia girl anyway? L'Arc: She's supposedly the Diva of North Noireism. Cecille: Isn't that a pretty important title? Ryfia: Me? Important? L'Arc: Don't ask me... (An old man appears and talks to one of the soldiers) Republic Soldier: ............ Yes sir. Okay, you're free to go. L'Arc: What? Why all of a sudden...? Republic Soldier: Ask the bishop of North Noireism if you want the details. Rastan, come with me. The orders I received did not include your release too. L'Arc: Why?! What did Rastan do? Republic Soldier: Desertion in the presence of the enemy and treason. Now get out of here before I change my mind! Rastan: Don't worry about me. (Rastan leaves the party. L'Arc, Ryfia, Niko and Cecille talk to the bishop) Bishop: L'Arc Bright Lagoon, correct? L'Arc: Y-Yes, that's right... Who are you? Bishop: I am a member of the school of North Noireism. I was instructed by Patriarch Hosea to greet you here. Ryfia: So, Hosea is the one who saved us? Bishop: Thou art the holy Diva, correct? Ryfia: Yes. Bishop: It is a pleasure to meet you. I bow before thy greatness. The Patriarch only recently learned that you were both in the Republic. As soon as he heard, he requested for your special treatment from the Senate. You are all now welcomed guests of the Patriarch and the Republic. Please excuse your prior treatment. L'Arc: So you're saying that we're not fugitives anymore? Bishop: That is correct. Ryfia: So where can we find Hosea? Bishop: He is currently in the cathedral. Shall I take you to him now? L'Arc: Yes, please. Bishop: Right this way then. (The Bishop leads the party into the cathedral) Bishop: The patriarch is right beyond this door. This is considered a sacred area, so only those deemed necessary by the Diva may enter. Ryfia: L'Arc, come with me. L'Arc: Oh... okay... Cecille: Hey! What about us?! Bishop: Please wait with me outside the cathedral. Cecille: That's not fair! (L'Arc and Ryfia enter the room and meet with Hosea, who appears in the room almost like a hologram) Hosea: Oh! My Diva! You're safe! Ryfia: Hosea... It's been a while. Hosea: I wasn't sure what was going to happen when the Singing Ministry was attacked, but now... Ryfia: I was worried, too... and yet I found the Child of Eesa. Clearly Eesa's will is with us. Hosea: So this must be the Child of Eesa? Ryfia: Yes. His name is L'Arc. Hosea: Wonderful... With him we can fight against the evil god Real and save this world from destruction! L'Arc: Destruction? Are you talking about Real's Law? I don't really get it, but isn't all this stuff just religious junk? Hosea: Most certainly not. Our gods hold the fate of this world in their hands. If Real's Law is taken up by Eesa, this world will be destroyed, just as the Law states. L'Arc: What do you mean? Hosea: You know the story of Genesis, right? That is no mere legend. Long ago people fought for Ray, creating the poisonous Hozone that destroyed the land. Eesa, who grieved over this, created the framework for a new world. That is the story of Genesis. L'Arc: And you're saying that's all historical fact? Hosea: That's right. To cleanse the world, Eesa also created two other gods. Ryfia: Imaginal and Real, right? Hosea: Yes. Imaginal represents creation and prosperity, while Real represents destruction and decay. They both create their own ideology for the future and give that to Eesa as the Law. Eesa then chooses the better of the two laws and makes a revelation. Noireism's purpose is to spread that revelation to the world and guide humanity towards it. L'Arc: But wasn't Noireism on the verge of extinction as a religion? I mean, I got the idea you guys were practically non-existent as an organization. Hosea: That is because Eesa has fallen into slumber, and along with that, the revelations have ceased. As such, Noireism has lost its reason for existence, and the people have forgotten to thank the gods. L'Arc: Why did Eesa fall asleep? Hosea: That, we do not know. However, before Eesa fell asleep, he sent an agent to this world. When this agent chooses a law and reaches the Holy Land of Noire, Eesa will be awakened. L'Arc: So I basically exist for the sole purpose of waking Eesa? Hosea: Yes, and to decide the fate of this world. The gods created North Noireism and Olquinaism, and were searching for the Child of Eesa... for you. L'Arc... Please help us. L'Arc: I don't know... This is all so sudden. Hosea: We thought there was only one Child of Eesa, but that is not the case at all. Real has lied. He claimed his Law was not one of death in order to attract the second Child to him. If Real's Law is presented to Eesa, this world will be destroyed by the evil of crystallization. L'Arc: ...Give me a break! You really think I'd go along with this stupid fairy tale?! Do you have any actual proof of this? Ryfia: L'Arc... Hosea: Listen, Child of Eesa. If you think that, then this world is doomed to destruction. Alf, the other Child of Eesa, has chosen Real's Law and is already heading towards the Holy Land. Ryfia: Hosea, please... Give L'Arc some time! Anyone would be confused after hearing all of this at once! I didn't know enough to tell him before we came here. Hosea: ...Very well, Child of Eesa. If you decide to help us, come and visit this cathedral again. But remember, the more time passes, the closer the world leans toward destruction. (L'Arc and Ryfia leave the room and join up with Niko and Cecille again) Niko: Mr. L'Arc! It took you long enough! L'Arc: ............ Cecille: What's wrong? You don't seem in a very good mood... Ryfia: Let's just go to the inn for now, okay, L'Arc? L'Arc: ...Okay. (The party enters the Lonely Twins Inn) Clerk: I've already received word of your arrival. Rest well. (They rest at the inn. Later that night, L'Arc goes outside and looks upon the destroyed buildings in the area) L'Arc: Destruction... (L'Arc remembers what Weiss told him) Weiss: Correct. Real's Law is a school of thought that proposes that all living things should die. Why should our Empire follow a god and religion that forces the apocalypse upon all of us?! L'Arc: Sir Weiss... Does that mean he believes in that whole story? Is that why he attacked Olquina? (Ryfia joins L'Arc) Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc: ......! Ryfia: ...I'm so sorry for troubling you with all of this. L'Arc: Is the Patriarch's story really true? Am I actually supposed to believe all that junk? Ryfia: This may not be the "proof" you're looking for, but one thing I know for certain... L'Arc: What is it? Ryfia: The crystallization the Patriarch was talking about is happening. You saw it in Kopin Village, right? That is what Real delivers. Let's not forget what happened to Zamuel... L'Arc: True. His body was crystallized. Are you saying that was the work of Real and Olquinaism, too? Is Ignacy an Olquinian, then? Ryfia: I don't know. But I do know that Real is using Olquinaism in his attempt to destroy the world. By attacking the Singing Ministry and killing me, Imaginal would have difficulty finding the Child of Eesa. L'Arc: This rubble was the Singing Ministry? So this is where you... Ryfia: Yes. I lived here as a child, receiving Imaginal's revelations. But everyone I ever knew is gone now... If what Hosea says is a lie, then why did they all have to die? Why did I spend my entire life here? For what reason did all of this happen...? L'Arc: Ryfia... Ryfia: ...That's why I believe that story. If I don't, the deaths... No, the lives of all those people would be rendered meaningless! L'Arc: The lives of all those people... Ryfia: The fact that I even met you is all the proof I need. L'Arc: Huh? Ryfia: Because you, the Child of Eesa... You were actually real! L'Arc: ............ Ryfia: I thought the outside world would be a colder, more inhuman place. That's why I couldn't understand why everyone was trying to stop Real's destruction so desperately. The outside world is actually more beautiful and full of life than I ever imagined. It would be so sad if this world became crystallized... L'Arc: Ryfia, I... Ryfia: I'm sorry to ask all this of you... I... I just thought it'd be nice to be with you, L'Arc. That it'd be nice to protect this beautiful world together... with you. L'Arc: ............ Ryfia: ...That's all. (They head back to the inn. The next morning...) Niko: Mr. L'Arc! I heard everything from Ryfia. Bein' a Child of Eesa is a pretty important job, huh? L'Arc: Ryfia... Are you sure you should have told everyone about this? Ryfia: I thought it'd be better if everyone thought it over together instead of just us alone. Sorry... L'Arc: No, it's fine... Cecille: If you're still wondering if all this is true or not, I have only one thing I can tell you. L'Arc: What's that? Cecille: I learned about how Noireism leads the people with Eesa's revelations in school a long time ago. So I think it's probably true. Niko: In school?! Did we learn stuff like that in school...? I don't remember. Cecille: ...Well, my school was really ahead of the curve. Niko: Hey, shouldn't you still be IN school? Cecille: I'm taking a little break to pursue the path of the hero! L'Arc: Path of the hero, eh...? Well, I've never been one to help others, but I guess I can't ignore this "world destruction" thing. Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc: I guess I'll go talk to the Patriarch about what I need to do. Ryfia: Thank you, L'Arc! L'Arc: ...H-Hey! Let me go! (The party returns to the Cathedral. Outside of Hosea's room...) Niko: ...Guess we have to wait around here again, eh? Ryfia: Nope. Come with us this time. Niko: Really?! Ryfia: Yes, really. Cecille: ............ (They meet with Hosea) Hosea: L'Arc, Child of Eesa. I presume you have decided to help us? L'Arc: ...I just thought I can't sit back and do nothing with all this talk of destruction going around. Hosea: I see. So you came in contact with the Divine Race, then. Interesting... Ryfia: ...?! L'Arc: Divine Race...? That's another new one for me. Hosea: Ah... Never mind. Now, L'Arc... and you too, Diva. Your task now is to find the Rogress and bond with them. With nine Rogress on your side, you will reach the Holy Land of Noire where Eesa resides. L'Arc: If we do that, will all this world-destroying crystallization stop? Hosea: Ah, you know about that? Indeed, that is correct. When Imaginal's Law is delivered to Eesa, the crystallization at the hands of Real will be stopped. L'Arc: Okay... I'll do it. But I want to make a deal with you. Hosea: A deal? L'Arc: Release Rastan. I owe him one. Hosea: ...Rastan is a traitor who ignored his duty to protect the Diva and deserted the Aion Unit. Ryfia: Then I forgive him. After all, Rastan did come to help us. Hosea: If the Diva says as such, we have no choice but to comply. L'Arc: Great. I'll co-operate with you too, then. What should we do first? Hosea: There is a map that shows where there has been Rogress activity. Use it to find the Rogress. You can get the map from a member of the Aion Unit outside. L'Arc: Okay. Hosea: Good luck, Child of Eesa... Cecille: ............ (The party leaves the Cathedral. They meet with a man) Ryfia: ...Hey! Is that you, Walter? Walter: Diva...! Long time no see! I'm sorry I couldn't protect you during the attack on the Singing Ministry... Ryfia: I'm just glad you're okay. Walter: Child of Eesa... I am Walter, commander of the Aion Unit. I have the map the patriarch informed you of. L'Arc: Thank you. Looks like Absin is the closest. Ryfia: That looks to be somewhere near Batrachites. Niko: Guess we should head for Batrachites, then. Cecille: ............ Walter: Rastan is waiting for you in front of the inn. Be careful on your journey. (The party meets up with Rastan in front of the inn) Rastan: I heard you had the patriarch release me. Thanks! L'Arc: Well, you've helped us a lot. Plus, I have something I want to tell you. Rastan: What is it? L'Arc: ...Zamuel is dead. Rastan: ...! When did this happen?! L'Arc: Just before we came to Carbunculus. He told me to tell you... He had finished his mission and will be celebrating on the other side. Rastan: ...I see. L'Arc: You're looking for Ignacy, right? I want to avenge Zamuel's death. Please, let me help you. Rastan: I know what you have to do. You're searching for the Rogress, right? L'Arc: Well, if you find Ignacy, lemme know. I'll do the same for you. Rastan: No. That'll be too difficult. More importantly, a man by the name of Serge is with the other Child of Eesa, correct? Ryfia: Yes. If Alf is the other Child of Eesa, then Adele should also be with them as their Diva. I think Serge said he was contracted to protect Adele, so he should be there with them. Rastan: Hmm... In that case, if I travel with you, I may get to meet Serge. May I come along? L'Arc: You know Serge? Rastan: Yeah... L'Arc: Okay then, come with us! I'll feel better knowing I'm with the legendary Leon anyway. Rastan: ...My name is Rastan. L'Arc: Yeah, yeah. Sorry. (Cecille spins around in victory) Cecille: Yayyy! I can't believe I'm actually going on an adventure with Leon! Rastan: If we're going to Batrachites, we'd better hurry. I heard the Imperial Army has already invaded the Republic and marched to the Ebur region. The Republic has destroyed the bridge between Benetnasch and Batrachites to stop the advance. Niko: Seriously?! Cecille: Whoa! Don't we have to cross the Millegris River to get to Batrachites? If there's no bridge, how are we going to get across?! Ryfia: Well, how else can we get to Batrachites? Rastan: A path through the mountains leads to the other side of the river. It's pretty dangerous, though. ...What do you want to do? L'Arc: If that's the only way, we don't have much of a choice. Rastan: Okay, let's head for Gauss Tunnel. That'd be northeast of here. L'Arc: All right. Let's go. (Rastan joins the party. They leave Benetnasch and head for Gauss Tunnel) [-------------------------] [Gauss Tunnel--------(GTN)] [-------------------------] (The party enters Gauss Tunnel) Cecille: This is the Gauss Tunnel? Ohhhh, it's just how I imagined it! I'm so excited! Niko: I'm not... Ryfia: Don't worry, Niko. L'Arc will protect you! L'Arc: Huh? Why me? Rastan's here too, you know! Rastan: ...Let's hurry. If Ebur has fallen, then Batrachites isn't far behind. L'Arc: Heh... I knew he wasn't called legendary for nothing! Cecille: Yeah, he's so cool! He's a hero among heroes! Ryfia: I think you're really cool too, L'Arc... L'Arc: Oh, come on... Ryfia: Why are you all red, L'Arc? L'Arc: ...Shut up! Let's go! (The party delves deeper into the tunnel. About halfway through, they find Dynos the Deathchanter examining the remains of a dragon) Dynos: This could be useful... L'Arc: Hey! You're that Olquinian Deathchanter! Cecille: What?! A villain? In that case, allow the honorable hero Cecille to take care of this! Dynos: Cecille?! What are you doing here...? Cecille: No way... Is that you, Dynos?! Ryfia: Cecille? You know this person? Cecille: ...Dynos is my little brother! L'Arc: ...LITTLE brother? Are you sure about that? Dynos: Ha ha! Oh, Cecille! What are you doing down here? Cecille: When I woke up, both you and Dad were gone... That's why I went looking for you. Dynos... How many years ago did you wake up?! Dynos: That's none of your business. Cecille: It IS my business! Are you involved with Olquinaism somehow? You know that it's trying to destroy us all, don't you?! Dynos: ...Oh. So you're siding with Imaginal's Law, then. Makes sense, I suppose. The Divine Race always sides with Imaginal... unless you're a failure like me. Cecille: You're NOT a failure! Dad always liked you more. Dynos: Shut up! Shut up! Shut up! Sister or not, you're on the Imaginal side now! Stand in my way, and I'll kill you like all the rest! (He faces the dragon remains) Dynos: Those who fell down to earth. Take flight, in the name of Chaos! (The dragon Fafnir is brought to life. The party fights and defeats it. Dynos has fled) Niko: Cecille, what's going on? There's no way he's younger than you. Cecille: That's what it looks like, but actually we're twins. L'Arc: You're kidding! Rastan: Cecille and I are of the Divine Race, the sleeping race of the Skywalk. Maybe the effect of the Lullaby wore off on Dynos alone. Ryfia: The Divine Race... L'Arc: What's the Divine Race? And what's this about a lullaby? Cecille: 1000 years ago when the Feldragons descended, the Hozone nearly destroyed everything. It was then that Eesa accepted Imaginal's Law. The survivors all escaped to the Skywalks. Rastan: Eesa then played a lullaby to put all those who had evacuated to sleep, until the land was cleansed. Basically, time was stopped for us. L'Arc: So that's what you meant by the "sleeping race." Cecille: Yeah. I suppose you could call us "ancients." Niko: But didn't the Skywalk fall into Olquina...? Cecille: That was the temple for Real, the Verct Skywalk. The Skywalk we were sleeping in was the temple for Imaginal, the Lascarde Skywalk. That one is still in the sky. Rastan: There are still hundreds of thousands of people sleeping in there with Imaginal. Fulheim's pollution still hasn't been cleansed. L'Arc: Then why aren't we all dead? We've lived here forever this way. Cecille: That's because you are a new race of humans, the Common Race. You are designed for this environment. You are the descendants of those that didn't escape to the Skywalks. Rastan: The Divine Race has removed itself from the cycle of evolution. Without this Dragon Gem on our person, we will be sickened by the Hozone pollution and die. Ryfia: The Common Race... L'Arc: Ryfia, you have a Dragon Gem too, don't you? Are you one of the Divine Race? Ryfia: You're right. Maybe... I am. I don't know. L'Arc: Maybe? How can you not know? Rastan: Well, for one reason or another, the effects of the Lullaby wear off on some people, waking them up. Most of those people then receive a Dragon Gem and live on the ground. If you left the Skywalk as a small child, you probably don't remember anything about it. Niko: ...So that means Dynos woke up and came down before Cecille? Cecille: From the looks of it, he woke up three or four years before I did. But he's changed so much... He was such a good kid before. L'Arc: This whole story's too crazy for me to even begin believing it! It seems like this kind of stuff is all I've been hearing recently. Rastan: Your search for the Rogress and our story of the Divine Race have no bearing on each other. If you cannot understand it, then simply forget all about it. L'Arc: I certainly would if I could... ...All right. All this crazy talk stops here. Let's make our way to Batrachites. Cecille: Yeah, let's get moving. If we can make it to Batrachites, maybe we'll run into Dynos again, too. Ryfia: ............ (The party makes it out of Gauss Tunnel and heads for Batrachites) [------------------------------------] [Batrachites First Visit--------(BCV)] [------------------------------------] (The party reaches Batrachites. It is occupied by Imperial Army soldiers) Niko: Mr. L'Arc! The Imperial Army's... L'Arc: ...I know. Rastan: Batrachites has fallen too, it seems. Ryfia: Is it okay for us to be walking around town like this? Prince Weiss may have put out an order for your capture... L'Arc: I think we'll be okay. He basically sent me to die over in Carbunculus. I doubt he suspects I'm alive, much less in this town. Cecille: With all this Imperial military around, I bet Dynos is probably steering clear for now. L'Arc: Probably. Well, for now, do you mind helping us look for Absin? Cecille: Of course not! A real hero acts for others before they act for themselves, right! Let's ask around town and see if we can find out anything useful. (The party explores the town. In the Abandoned Base area, the party finds two Imperial soldiers confronting a merchant) Imperial Soldier 1: Hey, you! You got some nerve, trying to feed us this rotten food! Merchant: How can you say that?! You didn't even pay for it! You should consider yourselves lucky you got any food at all, you thieves! Imperial Soldier 1: Nice attitude, there. I could kill you right now and think nothing of it! Cecille: I have to help...! Niko: Stop, Cecille! If we make a scene, we won't be able to ask around about Absin! Cecille: That's exactly why I can't let them get away with this! Alf: Leave him alone! (Alf appears on the scene) Alf: If you insist on such reckless behavior, you'll have to fight me, prince of the Meridian Empire. Imperial Soldier 1: P-Prince Alf...?! Imperial Soldier 2: Prince? No! Traitor Alf! You're wanted for betraying the Empire in the name of Olquinaism! (Two more soldiers appear) Imperial Soldier 2: If you really want a fight, we'll give you one! (Alf enters battle with the soldiers) Alf: Sin? Everyone is guilty of it.. Whether they're aware of it or not. Soldiers of the glorious Meridian army... Admit your wrongdoing and begone! Imperial Soldier: Silence! Alf: You choose to stay? You had your chance... Prepare to meet your doom! (Alf summons Absin, and he kills all the soldiers) Ryfia: Absin?! L'Arc: Alf, stop it! Alf: What, you approve of what my brother's doing? L'Arc: No, but this is too much! Just look at what you're doing... Alf: Would you say the same thing to the people of Batrachites? (Alf runs away) L'Arc: W-wait! Alf! (The party chases Alf and finds his party of himself, Adele, Leslie, Serge, Dynos and Clyde fighting more imperial soldiers. There is also a Lightship nearby) Rastan: So you're planning to hijack the Lightship... Cecille: Dynos! Please, let's talk about this! Ryfia: Leslie, do you choose Real's Law? Leslie: None of that matters to me. Because I'm a citizen of the Republic, I'm against the Empire! Alf: L'Arc, do you really think my brother's actions are appropriate? He's trying to conquer the world by brute force. I cannot let a corrupt Meridian Empire control the world! L'Arc: ...I don't think that's something an irresponsible deserter should say. Alf: You're right. I did desert my country. But it made me realize... This is the best and only way to save the world from destruction! Ryfia: You are the other Child of Eesa. You have chosen Real's Law. Real's Law invites destruction. Adele: ...Ha ha ha ha! Oh, Ryfia! Imaginal put one over on you, there! Ryfia: Adele! Adele: Are you stupid? You'd have to be to believe that! Imaginal's vision of the world doesn't save everybody! Cecille: That's complete nonsense! You may not realize it, but your god is deceiving you! Adele: (Approaching L'Arc) Ah, L'Arc. You poor, poor soul. You were forced to choose Imaginal's Law without any knowledge... Come... come with me, L'Arc. I'll show you the error of your ways. (Ryfia puts herself between L'Arc and Adele) Clyde: Highness, the Lightship is prepared for departure. (Alf, Adele, Leslie and Dynos board the Lightship) Niko: General Clyde? Why is he here...? Serge: Heh... Well, this is a surprise! I never imagined you would be on L'Arc's side... Rastan: Why are you still with the Olquinians? Serge: I finally saw the truth! It was hiding in front of me all along. (Now aboard the Lightship, Alf speaks) Alf: Listen to me, people of Turemilia! I am Alf. (The townspeople cheer as Alf talks) Alf: I was born prince of the Meridian Empire, but threw it all away for justice! We have risen up to save the world from the hands of the evil ruler Weiss! Now, my comrades! Citizens of the Turemilian Republic! Join us, so that together, we can defeat the evil Meridian Empire! L'Arc, I've chosen to fight against Weiss and Imaginal. That way I can save us all. I want you to think about this very carefully. I don't want to fight you, too. (The Lightship takes off and flies away) L'Arc: ...What is he talking about? Isn't Real the one trying to destroy the world? Cecille: Surely... Prince Alf has been deceived. Rastan: But what if we are the ones being deceived? Ryfia: Imaginal exists to... to save people... And... and even if we happen to be mistaken... All we have to do is release our bond with the Rogress... I think. L'Arc: So what you're saying is, we definitely need to find the Rogress before Alf does? Ryfia: Yes... Alf has already beaten us to Absin. Niko: The next closest Rogress would be... Probably this one, Gula, over in Ebur. Let's go and check it out! Rastan: Gula has not been seen in ages. Some say he may even be dead. L'Arc: But we have no means of travel. We need to keep the search local. Cecille: If I'm not mistaken, Ebur is just to the west of here. L'Arc: Looks like we'll be heading to Ebur, then. (The party leaves Batrachites and heads for Ebur) [--------------------------------] [Ebur and Ebur Ruins--------(EER)] [--------------------------------] (The party reaches Ebur. It is also occupied by the Imperial Army) Niko: Guess the Empire's on the move here, too. Cecille: Hmm. As a hero of justice, I'd love to drive out these Imperial soldiers... Rastan: Don't be stupid! A single girl can't beat an entire army. That's why Alf is doing everything he can to start an uprising. Cecille: Yeah, yeah. So I guess we're focusing on Gula, huh? Ryfia: ............ L'Arc: What's wrong, Ryfia? You've been quiet ever since we got here. Ryfia: What? Oh, no... It's nothing. L'Arc: Are you sure? Cecille: Hang in there, Ryfia! Ryfia: Thanks! I'll be fine. Don't worry! (While the party walks through the town, a girl comes out of her house and runs, bumping into Niko) Niko: Owww... ???: ......! Niko: Watch where you're going, kid! Ryfia: Niko, stop! She's scared. Cecille: Why don't you watch where you're going, Niko? You probably ran right into her! Niko: Mr. L'Arc, everybody's picking on me! L'Arc: Sorry, he's a little slow. Are you hurt? (The girl backs away from them) Ryfia: Come on... Don't be afraid. (A young woman walks out of the house the girl came out of) Young Woman: Maria! Wait! Maria: ...! (Maria runs away. A young man joins the group) Young Man: What happened? Young Woman: I was telling Maria that I heard someone saw Serge in the Ebur Ruins. Then she just ran outside all of a sudden... Young Man: You don't think she's gone to look for him...? L'Arc: Excuse me! Young Woman: Yes...? What do you want? Young Man: Oh, these guys ran into Maria as she was running out of town... Rastan: Excuse us, but we heard you talking about Serge. Is that the same Serge who used to live at the church on the hill? Young Woman: Yes. Serge of Gula Church. Are you his friends? L'Arc: Gula Church? ...Rastan, are they talking about the same Serge we know? Rastan: Yes. No doubt about that. He's originally from here. Ryfia: Where was Maria running off to...? Young Man: I'm not sure, but I think she was heading for the Ebur Ruins to look for Serge. But that place is way too dangerous for us regular people. Young Woman: You look like you're from the Imperial Army, though. You have the city blockaded right now. We can't even go look for her. Please, go get Maria and bring her back for us! You are friends with Serge, aren't you? Cecille: L'Arc, did you hear that? These people need our help! Now is the time to stand up and be a hero! Niko: Look, I don't have time to play your little hero game right now! We have to find Gula. Young Woman: Gula? Are you talking about the Rogress Gula? If so, that's all the more reason to go and look for Maria. Ryfia: What does Maria have to do with Gula? Young Man: Maria is supposedly the last person to have ever seen Gula. L'Arc: What do you mean? Young Man: About ten years ago Maria went to see Gula. Then she went missing. Young Woman: When we finally found her, she was cut and bruised all over and wasn't able to say a word. Niko: She can't talk? Young Man: Whatever she saw must have been so terrifying that she completely closed herself off from everything. We still don't know what happened to her or what she saw. Ryfia: Let's help them, L'Arc. L'Arc: ...All right, let's do it! (The party leaves Ebur and sets out for Ebur Ruins. Once they get there...) Niko: Wow... This is really something! Cecille: You think so? Niko: Definitely! I don't know, the style of architecture and everything... It's just weird. Cecille: Hmm, I guess... Well, maybe to you guys, anyway. (Ryfia finds a pair of shoes on the ground) Ryfia: Oh no... These are Maria's shoes! (She picks them up) L'Arc: You remember what shoes she was wearing? Ryfia: Yeah, because I remember thinking how cute they were... L'Arc: ...You think these are cute? They look pretty cheap to me! Cecille: Ha! Like you know anything about fashion! L'Arc: Shut up! Rastan: What do you say we look for Maria? L'Arc: Okay. Let's go in a little further and see what we can find. (The party progresses through the ruins. They encounter Alf's party at an intersection) L'Arc: ...Alf?! Alf: L'Arc... I suppose you've come to bond with Gula, too. Adele: Tee hee... I see how it is. You'll never choose me, will you, L'Arc? And now... you'll die for that choice! (Adele tries to attack L'Arc with her staff. L'Arc prepares to retaliate, but Ryfia grabs his sword) Ryfia: No! (Rastan repels Adele's attack) Alf: Adele! Ryfia: We didn't come here to fight you. That's not why we're here. Adele: If you're here to bond with Gula, then you have no choice but to fight us! Niko: W-what's going on? We didn't even know Gula was here! Dynos: They're lying... Cecille: No we're not! We're looking for Maria. A hero must save those in need! Serge: Maria...? L'Arc: Yeah, Maria from Ebur. You probably know her. Leslie: What's with that look, Serge? Serge: What do you know about Maria? Tell me everything! (L'Arc tells him everything) L'Arc: ...And that's what happened. We never had any intention of fighting you. Serge: You guys go on and search for Gula without me, Sir Alf. I have to... Alf: No, we'll help you try and find Maria too. Dynos: Don't be a fool! You have chosen Real's Law, Child of Eesa! You must bond with the Rogress before L'Arc does. Alf: Maybe we'll find Gula while we are looking for Maria. Uh, Adele... what do you think? Adele: ............ Clyde: But Sir Alf, the path here diverges three different ways. L'Arc: We can split up into three groups and search all of them at once. Alf: Good idea! Well then, just let us know when you're ready to leave. [Transcriber's Note: From this point on, different choices and outcomes can be made in this game, and they can lead to different dialogue and conversations. It is important to note that the choices and outcomes that can be made only lead to minor dialogue revisions that don't alter the game's overall story at all. I've tried my best to script as many instances as I could.] Alf: So you're ready? L'Arc: Yep. Alf: I think you and I should each lead separate groups. Now who should lead the last group... Rastan, you seem up to it. What do you say? Rastan: I don't have a problem with that. Serge: ...In that case, I'll go with Rastan. Rastan: ............ Alf: My group is going to be Adele, Clyde, Dynos and me. Leslie: Nobody wants me? I guess I'll be in L'Arc's group then. Rastan: Okay, let's divide the last three between L'Arc's group and mine. You can decide who goes where. (L'Arc chooses his two group members, the third one going to Rastan's group) Alf: We'll go right. L'Arc: Okay then, we'll go left. Rastan: Let's go! (All three groups enter their respective pathways. Down L'Arc's path...) L'Arc: Hmm... She's not down this way, either. Leslie: Hey L'Arc, who is that Rastan guy anyway? -IF CECILLE AND RYFIA ARE IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Cecille: He's Leon, of the Lord Knights. -IF NIKO IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Niko: He's actually Leon, of the Lord Knights. -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Leslie: Leon? Hmm, he's a lot older than the rumors put it. Maybe he's not who I thought he was after all... L'Arc: What do you mean? Leslie: I thought he may have had something to do with the killing of the Olquinians' Diva. -IF CECILLE IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Cecille: No way! Rastan's not like that. -IF NIKO AND RYFIA ARE IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Ryfia: Rastan's not that kind of person! -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- L'Arc: What makes you think that? Leslie: I don't know. He just gives off that kind of... smell. L'Arc: Smell? Leslie: The same smell as the ones who killed that other guy. -IF RYFIA IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Ryfia: What other guy? -IF NIKO AND CECILLE ARE IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Niko: Other guy? -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Leslie: Heh... Sorry, I was just talking to myself. I don't know... I just get the feeling they're part of some dangerous organization. Actually, I get that same feeling from Serge, too. L'Arc: Serge and Rastan do seem to know each other, now that you mention it. Leslie: Exactly. Why were you guys traveling with Serge, anyway? L'Arc: He was part of the group of bandits that stole Adele's pendant. Leslie: What would a thief want with that pendant? It's just a symbol of the Real Diva. L'Arc: I dunno. I guess they thought it would fetch a decent price? Anyway, he was actually working for the Olquinians, disguised as a thief in order to protect Adele. Leslie: ...Do you really believe that? L'Arc: What...? Leslie: You put up this tough-guy look, but you're actually pretty kind and trusting. I like that! It's cute! L'Arc: Pfft! Whatever! (Down Alf's path...) Clyde: Adele, what's wrong? Adele: ...Nothing. Alf: You wanted to go with L'Arc, didn't you? Adele: ...I never said that! Alf: No, you didn't. I'm sorry. Adele: Why are we even cooperating with him in the first place? I told you before. If you want to be my Child of Eesa, you have to kill L'Arc! Alf: Adele... (Adele slaps him) Adele: You can't do it, can you? You always talk big, but you never take action! Don't you understand...? L'Arc is my enemy! Clyde: Adele, how could you say that to Sir Alf? Dynos: Watch you mouth, old man! Lady Adele is the Real Diva, you know! She is the priestess that passes on the will of Real. Prince or not, if you're a Child of Eesa, then Lady Adele's word is law! Alf: Clyde, I'm fine... Adele: ............ (Down Rastan's path...) -IF NIKO IS IN RASTAN'S GROUP- Niko: Mr. L'Arc... I'm so hopeless... -IF CECILLE IS IN RASTAN'S GROUP- Cecille: Okay, let's go find Maria! -IF RYFIA IS IN RASTAN'S GROUP- Ryfia: Where could Maria be...? -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Serge: What are you trying to pull, Mr. Rastan? Rastan: This is just how things turned out. Serge: ...I still haven't forgiven you. Serge: I'd kill you right now if I could! Rastan: I feel the same way about myself, to be completely honest. Serge: Well, that's very admirable of you. Rastan: So why are you still with Adele? Serge: You should know. Rastan: ...Because I'm here? Serge: It's not that simple! That's why you're with L'Arc and his group, isn't it? Rastan: ...Well, yes. -IF NIKO IS IN RASTAN'S GROUP- Niko: ...Does anybody need me, or what? -IF CECILLE IS IN RASTAN'S GROUP- Cecille: What's this? Two guys gossiping in secret? Eww, gross! -IF RYFIA IS IN RASTAN'S GROUP- Ryfia: What are you two talking about? We have to find Maria! -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Rastan: ...Sorry, let's go. (Back with L'Arc's group, they enter a room where they must push face statues into certain directions to open any of three doors. They manage to open two doors. The area starts to shake) L'Arc: Whoa... What's that...? (Many blue dragons appear out of the doors) L'Arc: Oh no! It's a trap! (L'Arc and his group fight the dragons, known as Marids, but more keep appearing) Leslie: More of them?! We can't keep this up... L'Arc: What?!? That doesn't seem like you Leslie! Leslie: Well, I guess you can handle them! L'Arc: I think we'll be fine. I think you're luring them out here with your good looks anyway! Leslie: Hey, that's not a bad line... for a kid. ...You believe them, don't you? L'Arc: I do. I believe Rastan and all of them. I trust them. Okay, enough talking! Let's do this! (Rastan's group appears out of one of the doors) L'Arc: Rastan! Rastan: L'Arc, is that you? L'Arc: We're surrounded over here! They've got us cornered! Turn that statue for us! That should open the door! Rastan: I'll get right on it! Hold 'em off until I can get there! (Rastan turns the statue and opens the last door) Rastan: L'Arc, you go on ahead. If I and a few others stay behind, we should be able to hold them off. Serge: Sorry, but I'm going with L'Arc! Leslie: I guess I'll stay here with Rastan then. Good luck! L'Arc: Thanks. Ryfia, you... Ryfia: I want to go with you. If Gula is down there, maybe I can help you. L'Arc: Yeah, you're right. It would be nice to have you around. Niko, Cecille... one of you stay here with Rastan. Hmm, now who should I take with me...? -IF L'ARC CHOOSES CECILLE- Cecille: Ah yes, a young girl is in trouble! A perfect opportunity for a hero to gallantly appear and save the day! Niko: That's mean, Mr. L'Arc... I was really gonna try hard this time too... Serge, I guess it's up to you to find Maria now. -IF L'ARC CHOOSES NIKO- Niko: You've got a good eye Mr. L'Arc! I knew you'd pick me! I'll show you what I can do! Whoops, I got a little carried away there! Sorry! Anyway, I'll try my best! (This time I'm serious!) Cecille: Wait, are you serious? Serge, you better not come back until you find her! -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Serge: Hmph, you got it! Okay L'Arc, let's go! L'Arc: Okay... Rastan, I'll let you handle this. Rastan: Understood. Do whatever you can to save Maria... L'Arc: You guys be careful! I'll be waiting for you up ahead. (L'Arc's group leaves through the door for the Hall of Bonding. Along the way...) Ryfia: I wonder if Rastan will be okay? Serge: I think he can take care of himself. L'Arc: How do you know Rastan, Serge? Serge: I don't know... Fate? L'Arc: Don't look at me, man! Ryfia: Have you known him for a long time? Serge: ...Yeah, maybe. -IF CECILLE IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Cecille: Does that mean you were a Lord Knight, too? -IF NIKO IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Niko: Wait. Does that mean you're involved with the Lord Knights too? -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Serge: Why would you even mention them? You know they broke up a long time ago. Ryfia: Rastan is really Leon, right? Serge: ...What? He goes by Leon? L'Arc: He denies it, but that's what Zamuel told us before he died. Serge: What do you mean, he's dead?! Ryfia: He was attacked by a man named Ignacy, and the wounds made his body crystallize. Serge: Crystallize?! Like that stuff we saw in Olquina? L'Arc: Yeah... Nobody knows why that happened to his body, though. Serge: Ignacy... Crystallization... -IF CECILLE IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Cecille: Don't talk about Zamuel unless you wanna see me cry! -IF NIKO IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Niko: ...Let's look for Maria, Mr. L'Arc. -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- L'Arc: ...Sorry. (The scene switches to Alf's group) Clyde: Sir Alf... About your departure from the Empire... I have stood by your side through it all. I remain steadfast, of course, but... Alf: I know what you're trying to say. But I told you before. Even if we change the Empire, it won't do anything to change the world. Clyde: Sir Alf... Dynos: ...You don't want your little friend Alf to get involved with Olquinaism, do you? Clyde: No! It's just... Sir Alf was the glue that held the Empire together. I don't want him to leave... Alf: Clyde, I've made my decision. I'll do whatever I have to in order to save this world! Adele: ...Alf, I can sense some monsters nearby. A lot of them! Alf: What?! Adele: Just ahead. Alf: Okay, let's go check it out. (Alf and his group enter the room where Rastan, Niko and Leslie are battling the Marids) Alf: Who's there... Rastan? Rastan: L'Arc is already headed this way. Dynos: If we don't hurry up they'll get to Gula before us... Alf, we must hurry after them! Alf: No... We have to fight here first! We'll go after L'Arc later. Dynos: ...Hmph. Lady Adele! Adele: It's okay Dynos. Let's follow Alf's orders. We should be able to destroy these ugly things in no time! (They all battle and defeat the Marids) Rastan: That's the last of 'em... Alf: Adele, do you still sense something? Adele: No... That terrible feeling from before is gone now. Alf: Well Rastan, in that case.... Rastan: I suppose I do not need to fight with you any longer. Clyde: Agreed. Sir Alf, I know Serge is with them, but we really should go after First Sergeant Lagoon. Dynos: He's right. Serge can't be trusted! What if the only thing he's thinking about right now is that Maria girl? Alf, do you not understand the directive you have been given?!? You must bond with all the Rogress for Lady Adele! Alf: I understand that, Dynos. Much more than you ever will. Dynos: ............ Alf: Let's go, Adele. Adele: ...Very well. (L'Arc and his group enter the Hall of Bonding and find Maria standing in front of Gula) Serge: Maria! (Gula attacks Maria with dust fired from his breath) L'Arc: What the?! Ryfia: Watch out! (Ryfia shields herself in front of Maria and gets hit with Gula's next attack) Ryfia: Ahhhhhhhhhh! Maria: Agh... Noooooo! (L'Arc comes to Ryfia's aid) Serge: Maria, you can talk...? Maria: Are... are you okay?! Ryfia: I'm fine. -IF CECILLE IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Cecille: Watch out for Gula! -IF NIKO IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Niko: Mr. L'Arc, look out! Gula's attacking! -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- (The group battles and weakens Gula) L'Arc: Is that it...? Serge: I don't think so! Maria: Oh no, Serge! Gula's cursed! Serge: Cursed? What're you talking about, Maria? Maria: I'm not sure. I was just a kid back then. But the man that killed Selena must have done something! Look! Gula's forehead! (A blue marking appears on Gula's forehead) Serge: What is that?! Ryfia: Gula's BioCode has been overwritten! -IF NIKO IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Niko: BioCode? -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Ryfia: A living thing's genetic information. Magic or Hymns can change them. I'll try to read Gula's Code. Try and hold him off! L'Arc: No problem! (The group holds off Gula's attacks while Ryfia reads his BioCode. Blue energy swirls around Ryfia and the marking on Gula's forehead flashes again) Ryfia: This is magic. Gula's body is bound here with magic. His BioCode has been shaved off in places. He's in pain and out of control. L'Arc: What should we do then?! Ryfia: Hit him with magic exactly as I tell you to. Serge: Let's do it! Ryfia: The Code is 001976. Serge: There! (Serge attacks Gula with a magic blast) Ryfia: Code 530047. Next is Code 530046. (Serge attacks him with more magic. Gula stomps the ground and fires his cannon at Ryfia. L'Arc blocks the attack) Ryfia: Code 023557. (Serge attacks Gula again) Ryfia: And finally Code 000001. L'Arc: He's not down yet! (Gula fires his breath. They dodge it) Serge: This oughta do it! (Serge attacks Gula with one final magic blast. Gula falls) Maria: Gula! (Gula stands up and talks) Gula: Child of Eesa, Imaginal Diva... and my little friend. Thank you for restoring my BioCode! Maria: Gula, you're all right! Ryfia: What happened to you? Gula: A man named Ignacy locked me in here and copied my BioCode. I lost part of it in an accident and lost control of myself. I know he attacked Maria, and she was deeply hurt by it. L'Arc: Ignacy again? I wonder what he's after...? Gula: Child of Eesa, I ask you now. Do you require my power, the Logos of "Integrity"? L'Arc: You want to give me your Logos? Serge: It's okay. You saved Maria. If you're gonna bond with him, I'll look the other way for you. Ryfia: L'Arc... Please... L'Arc: Gula, let me have your Logos! Gula: Very well. (L'Arc bonds with Gula in the same void in which he had bonded with Simmah) -IF CECILLE IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Cecille: Whoa... So that's it, huh? -IF NIKO IS IN L'ARC'S GROUP- Niko: Mr. L'Arc! We did it! We've beaten Sir Alf to Gula! -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Serge: Okay, let's head back. Maybe we'll run into Alf along the way. L'Arc: ...Okay. Ryfia: L'Arc... Thank you. L'Arc: Hmmm? What do you mean? Ryfia: You don't know if this is the right thing to do. You're not sure if this is worth fighting over. L'Arc: Well... Ryfia: But you still bonded with Gula anyway. L'Arc: I don't know, but... I'm just doing what I have to, it's the best I can do in this situation. (The group leaves the Hall of Bonding and meets up with Rastan's group and Alf's group) Alf: L'Arc! Did you find Maria? L'Arc: Yeah. She's okay. Maria: You were looking for me? Thank you so much...! Serge: I'll take Maria back to Ebur. Alf: Okay. We'll go and look for Gula. L'Arc: I've already bonded with him. Alf: ...Ah. Well, I guess we both have two Rogress, then. Dynos: Why didn't you stop them, Serge? Serge: Don't blame me, kid. Dynos: What?! Cecille: Don't let him get to you, Dynos! Dynos: Geh... Adele: ...Let's go, Alf. We don't have any reason to be here. Or do you want to take care of L'Arc while we have him here? Alf: No... Adele: I didn't think so... Spineless brat! L'Arc: Adele! How could you say that... Adele: Shut up! Don't talk to me! (Adele runs off) Dynos: Lady Adele! (Dynos chases after her) Cecille: Dynos! Wait! I want to talk to you about something... Dynos... Alf: We'll be waiting in the Lightship. You're coming back, right, Serge? Serge: ...Of course. Alf: L'Arc... Unless you do something, the next time we see each other, it'll be as enemies. (Alf and his party leave. L'Arc reunites with his original party members. They all leave Ebur Ruins. They then return to Ebur and drop Maria off at her house) Serge: ...See you around, Maria. Take care. Maria: Will you come see me again? Serge: I will. I promise. For Selena's sake, too. (Serge begins to leave) L'Arc: Wait, Serge. Do you honestly think Real will save the world? Is that why you're sticking with Alf? Serge: ...I don't know the first thing about Real or Imaginal. Ryfia: Serge... Serge: Well, I don't want to hurt Ryfia's feelings, but... I don't believe in any of that stuff. I just have an enemy I need to take care of, and being with Alf is the shortest path to reaching him. L'Arc: So we're not enemies, right? Serge: I don't know. Who knows what destiny might bring us, eh? Ryfia: Serge, tell Adele I'd like to talk to her one more time. I like her. I really do. Serge: I don't know if she'll want to hear that or not... but I'll tell her. Cecille: Also, if you don't mind... tell Dynos to hurry up and to come home for me. Serge: You got it. Rastan: ............ Serge: ...What? Don't look at me like that! Okay, fine. I'll tell you a little secret before I go. Niko: What kind of secret? Serge: I heard there's a Lightship hidden at the Dragon Prison in Jada. It might still work if you can find it. Cecille: Really?! Wow, that's exactly what we need right now! Niko: Are you sure a defender of justice should condone stealing Lightships? Besides, I was in Jada for a while and I never heard any stories about Lightships. Serge: Well, you can believe me or not. It's totally up to you. (Serge leaves) Niko: What should we do, Mr. L'Arc? Remember, he lied to us before. Maria: Serge isn't a bad person. L'Arc: What do you think, Rastan? You know him from way back, right? Rastan: ...I think we can trust him. Especially in this situation. He's thankful that we helped Maria. L'Arc: Okay, it's settled. Let's go to Jada. I think there are some Rogress over that way too. Ryfia: You're right. Rufunga should be somewhere near the ocean to the east of Jada. Niko: Ugh. Back to the Empire, eh...? L'Arc: If you don't like it, you can always stay here. Niko: N-No! I was just joking! I wouldn't stay here without you! Cecille: We'll have to cross the canyon at the Empire's border to make it to Jada from here. Ryfia: Hmm, according to the map, I guess that's the only way. Looks like it's just to the west of here. L'Arc: Okay. Let's get going. (The party leaves Ebur and heads west) [-------------------------------] [Galois Ravine-------------(GLR)] [-------------------------------] (The party enters Galois Ravine, the canyon dividing the Empire and the Republic) Cecille: Once we make it over this canyon, we'll be back in the Meridian Empire. Niko: *gulp* Are we really going to climb down this? L'Arc: I think we have to. The war's halted all ship traffic into the Empire. Niko: Aw, man! If only we had a Lightship! We could fly right over this! Ryfia: Oh, you can do it! Besides, there's a Lightship waiting for us in Jada. Cecille: Yeah! Positive thinking, people! Rastan: If you don't want to come, now's your chance to back out of this. (Everybody but Niko begins to leave) Niko: No way! I told you before, I'll follow you guys no matter what! (L'Arc comes back) L'Arc: Then quit jawing and let's get moving already! Niko: Okay, okay... (The party climbs down the canyon and reaches the bottom. They attempt to cross the river, but they are attacked by a monster named Chimera. They defeat it and continue. They ride the lift to the top of the south side of the ravine. Luze and Saura are there, along with two Imperial watchmen) Niko: Huh? Was the military always deployed out here? L'Arc: Hmm... Rastan: They probably fortified their border defenses to protect Royal City. Cecille: This can't be good... Rastan and I might be okay, but Ryfia is a dignitary of Turemilia... Ryfia: Why is that a bad thing? L'Arc: Think about it, Ryfia! We're at war with the Republic right now. Ryfia: Well, can't we just hide the fact that I'm from the Republic? L'Arc: It's not that easy. Without Imperial identification, you'll be detained for sure. Ryfia: Oh, no! What'll we do? Cecille: Oh, NOW you get it... (Luze and Saura meet with the party) Luze: You look like you could use some help. L'Arc: Luze?! What are you doing here...? Luze: I was looking for you. L'Arc: Me...? Why...? Luze: Let's discuss it after we enter Imperial territory. Rastan: See those watchmen? We can't do anything reckless. Luze: Don't worry. Just follow me. (They approach the watchmen) Watchman 1: Who's there?! Only authorized travelers are permitted to enter Imperial territory. Saura: We are evangelists of Noireism. We would like permission to enter your borders. Luze: Our entry is guaranteed by the scriptures of both North and South Noireism. Watchman 2: ...Okay. The rights of Noireists are guaranteed by law. Watchman 1: But once you set foot on Imperial soil, you won't be allowed to return to the Republic. If you accept those terms, feel free to enter. Niko: A one-way pass, huh? What happened to protecting the teachings? Watchman 1: We are currently staging an invasion of the Republic. Only those who have acquired a permit from Royal City may enter the Republic from the Empire. If you have a problem with that, go to Royal City and get that permit. L'Arc: Royal City, eh...? Luze: I believe they still have some business to attend to in Turemilia. We will go on ahead. Please allow them entry when they return. Watchman 2: Roger that. Saura: We'll wait for you in Topazion. (Luze and Saura leave. After taking care of their business, the party talks to the watchmen again) Watchman: Oh, aren't you the disciples of those evangelists from before? Do you want to enter Imperial territory? L'Arc: Yes, please. Watchman: Right this way then. Remember, you must obtain a permit from Royal City if you wish to leave the country. Niko: Sigh... Now we're stuck here... Ryfia: But can't we just get a permit from Royal City if we want to leave? Cecille: You really have a few screws loose somewhere, don't you, Ryfia? Remember? L'Arc and Niko used to be in the Imperial Army. If they go and try to get a permit from Royal City, they'll find out who they really are. They'll get hauled off to Weiss in an instant! Rastan: I wonder what Weiss would do if he finds out L'Arc's still alive...? Would he try to kill him, or would he just try and use him again...? Ryfia: Hmm, I guess it won't be that easy to get a permit then. Sorry, I didn't realize... I guess I have to learn a lot more about how this world works... L'Arc: It's okay. I'm used to it by now. Let's just get to Topazion for now. We've gotta thank Luze for helping us. Plus, I think she had something to talk to us about anyway. (The party begins to leave the Ravine, but Niko bumps into a messenger passing by) Niko: Owwww! Messenger: E-Excuse me... Huh? Niko: Who are you? Messenger: It's me, Mark! I can't believe you're okay! I heard you and L'Arc were killed in the Republic. Mark: Ahhhhhhhh! Are you... ghosts?! L'Arc: Who?! Mark: W-What's going on...? How can you still be alive? L'Arc: Would you rather we were dead? Mark: N-No...! That's not what I meant... Ryfia: You seem to be in a hurry. Do you have somewhere to be? Mark: Oh! Yes, that's right! I almost forgot! An unidentified Lightship was spotted off the coast just to the east of Topazion! Cecille: What?! Is that the Turemilian fleet?! Mark: No. According to the rumors we've heard, it's the same model as the ones we use in the Empire. I have to report this to the garrison in Turemilia. Sorry, gotta get going! (Mark begins to leave) L'Arc: Mark! Wait! Don't tell anyone that Niko and I are still alive. Mark: Huh? L'Arc: We're on a secret mission for Prince Weiss. We're supposed to be dead, so don't let on otherwise to anyone, okay? Mark: Ohhhh! Okay! I'll keep it a secret. Don't worry! (Mark leaves) Cecille: L'Arc, you big liar! L'Arc: Shut up! We can't just let him go around telling everybody we're alive, now can we? Rastan: I wonder if the Lightship he was talking about is the one Prince Alf stole...? L'Arc: Most likely... Ryfia: So they're back in the Meridian Empire, too... Which reminds me... Rufunga is supposed to be somewhere around this area. Rastan: Well, that's all well and good, but Luze and Saura are waiting on us in Topazion. That comes first. L'Arc: Yeah, let's get going... (The party leaves Galois Ravine and heads to Topazion) [-------------------------------------------] [Back in the Empire and Rufunga--------(BER)] [-------------------------------------------] (The party enters Topazion and finds Luze and Saura) Saura: Thank you for coming. L'Arc: You really helped us out back there! Thanks. Cecille: So what did you want to talk to us about? Luze: You bonded with Gula, didn't you? L'Arc: ...How'd you know that? Saura: Luze knows all. The voice of Eesa tells her everything. L'Arc: ............ Luze: Child of Eesa, you currently possess two Rogress. In order to profess the Law you have chosen to Eesa, you must seek out all of the Rogress. If two Children of Eesa are born, then they have no choice but to fight one another. L'Arc: You don't need to remind me. I have to save the world from crystallization and all that, right? Ryfia: Luze, please tell me what it is to be human. Cecille: Whoa, Ryfia! What's with the philosophy all of a sudden? Luze: Well, that depends on the law professed by whoever defines what it is to be human. Niko: What's the big deal? A human's a human, no? Luze: Yes. Exactly. Ryfia: Well, how does the law that I've always believed in define humans? Luze: You should know the answer to that better than anyone else. Ryfia: ............ Luze: I've been searching for a solution to this problem, L'Arc. This solution must protect the world from disaster. I look forward to hearing what the Children of Eesa propose. (Luze leaves) Saura: ...What I am about to say is in no way related to Luze's intentions. L'Arc: Huh? Saura: Alf is trying to stir up Hozone pollution so he can summon Rufunga from the eastern sea. Rogress despise it when the land is polluted by Hozone. Rastan: What?! Saura: Luze can't get involved, but I can't stand by and let the earth be polluted like this. I want you to stop them. (Saura leaves) Cecille: Wait! ...Aaand they're gone. L'Arc: Hold on! I don't even know what Hozone pollution is! Wasn't Hozone some kind of... poison or something? Cecille: It's like a giant version of a Felburst. Rastan: I'll explain later. Right now we have to stop Sir Alf before it's too late! Besides, if we don't do anything, they'll get to the next Rogress before us. Ryfia: He's right! We can't let Alf get to Rufunga first! Let's head for the eastern coastline. (The party leaves Topazion and heads to the eastern coastline. There, they find Alf, Adele and Leslie. Adele is singing a hymn and a black cloud looms overhead) Cecille: Look over there! Rastan: A black cloud... Cecille: W-What the heck is that...? L'Arc: It looks like Ryfia's Ray Squall. Ryfia: Yes, but this is... (Alf approaches) Alf: A Dark Squall... A Hymn that produces Hozone to crystallize the earth. L'Arc: Crystallize the earth? Are you seriously going through with this? Ryfia: Crystallization results in the death of the planet! If the earth dies, we all die. I am positive that is not what you want. Alf: I want to save the world. L'Arc: Then why are you doing this?! (Adele approaches) Adele: What do you think of the song that brings the black rain...? L'Arc: Adele... Alf: To summon Rufunga, we have to cause Hozone pollution near his regular travel route. I won't let you stop us. Leslie: We have things to do, y'know! Quit interfering with us! Alf: Bring it on, L'Arc! (The party fights Alf's group) -IF THE PARTY WINS- (Rastan prepares to finish them off with his sword) L'Arc: Rastan, wait. Why? Is this crystallization different from what Sir Weiss did? ???: Did you cause this Hozone pollution?! (A mysterious being appears) Ryfia: Rufunga?! Rufunga: You fools! How dare you pollute this land! Now you will pay for this! (Clyde appears) Clyde: Sir Alf! Alf: I'm sorry, Clyde. Leslie: Clyde! Who's watching Serge? Clyde: Dynos has that taken care of. We need to retreat, Sir Alf! (Alf and his party retreat) L'Arc: Wait! Rastan: Wait! The Rogress... (Rufunga attacks with a flash of light) Cecille: Whoa! Why's it attacking us?! Niko: It looks pretty mad! Cecille: Why?! We're not the ones that made this mess! L'Arc: Ryfia! Summon a Ray Squall! If it works against Feldragons... Ryfia: Okay, I'll try it! (Ryfia sings and summons a Ray Squall, raining down Ray and getting rid of the Hozone pollution) Rufunga: A Ray Squall... So you didn't conjure the Hozone after all. Cecille: Nope, sorry... That was Alf, not us! (The Ray Squall ends. L'Arc approaches Rufunga) Rufunga: ...You are a Child of Eesa. I see Simmah has joined your side. L'Arc: Yes. I have to bond with all the Rogress... including you. Rufunga: Very well. Child of Eesa, do you require my power, the Logos of "Purity"? L'Arc: Please, lend me your power. Rufunga: It shall be done. (L'Arc bonds with Rufunga) Niko: Well, I'm not sure what just happened, but it looks like you did it Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: If you don't know what's going on, how come you're so happy? Niko: I don't know a thing about all this Rogress and laws and Hozone stuff! L'Arc: Huh. Don't feel bad. I don't know about any of that stuff either! Rastan: Let's rest in Topazion. We'll decide what to do next from there. L'Arc: Okay.... -IF THE PARTY LOSES- Adele: ... Why am I not good enough for you? I was always by your side, L'Arc! I was always watching over you! Ryfia: Adele, stop it! Adele: Goodbye, L'Arc! ???: Did you cause this Hozone pollution?! (A mysterious being appears) Ryfia: Rufunga?! Alf: ...Rufunga! Please, lend me the power of your Logos! Rufunga: ...Why would a Child of Eesa create Hozone pollution? Is that truly the will of Eesa? Alf: It is. I have chosen Real's Law. Rufunga: ...I see Girtab has joined your side. In that case, I too will follow you. (Alf bonds with Rufunga. Clyde arrives) Clyde: We're ready for takeoff. Leslie: Is somebody watching over Serge? Clyde: Yeah, Dynos is. Ryfia: What did you do to Serge?! Adele: Hee hee hee hee... It's all Serge's fault. Giving Gula away, right before his eyes... Alf, you will kill L'Arc for me, won't you? Alf: ...Let's tackle the next Rogress. Adele: Why?! You promised to kill him and return him to me! Didn't you?! Alf: Adele! Adele: ...! Alf: ...Let's go. The Rogress come first. (Alf and his group leave, Adele hesitating for a bit) Niko: Are you sure we shouldn't go after them? L'Arc: ... We're tired and hurt right now. Let's rest in Topazion first. -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- (The party arrives in Topazion and stays at the Eloquent Cat Inn for the night. The next morning...) L'Arc: Didn't Alf say the Hozone pollution would cause crystallization? I thought it was just some kind of toxin, but is that what's causing all this crystallization? Cecille: Supposedly, Hozone mixes with other materials and changes them. It sounds pretty plausible to me. Rastan: Hozone is a toxic substance released when the Skywalks build up and spray out Ray. My generation even used Hozone as a source of energy. Cecille: But 1000 years ago, when the Olquina Skywalk fell during the Dragon Descent... An accident caused Hozone to spread all throughout the world. Niko: Won't Eesa cleanse the world of Hozone? Cecille: No, but I do believe the Rogress were used by Eesa to cleanse the land. Ryfia: Really? I thought Rogress were only meant to produce Ray... Rastan: Supposedly they have the power to take in Hozone and convert it to Ray. L'Arc: If Hozone pollution causes crystallization, maybe Zamuel's injuries were related to Hozone? Cecille: So you're saying he died because of Hozone? But he's of the Common Race... L'Arc: ...Talking about it isn't going to solve anything! All that stuff will go away once we get the nine Rogress, right? Ryfia: ............ L'Arc: Well? Ryfia: Y-yes... I think so, anyway. Niko: That's a pretty vague answer, isn't it...? Ryfia: ...Sorry. Either way, we need to stop this! L'Arc: Well, for that we need a Lightship. Rastan: Unfortunately, getting too close to Jada may be kind of dangerous right now. Cecille: Hmm, should I go check things out? L'Arc: A random kid wandering around is just asking to get arrested. I'll go. Ryfia: Then I'm going too! L'Arc: Umm, you realize that somebody has to go alone, right? Otherwise it's not much of a scouting mission. Ryfia: But I want to be with you, L'Arc... Cecille: Yeah, because he's the Child of Eesa, right? Ryfia: That's right. So can I come? L'Arc: Well... Niko, you go. Not that I expect you to actually do anything right... Niko: Hey! What's that supposed to mean? L'Arc: Just shut up and go to the Dragon Prison and check things out! We'll head over there later. Wait around the entrance to town when you're done. Niko: Y-yes sir! (Niko leaves the party. The party leaves Topazion) [------------------------------------------------] [Jada and Dragon Prison Second Visit--------(JDS)] [------------------------------------------------] (The party arrives in Jada) Cecille: Not too many soldiers around. L'Arc: Probably because the Rogress is gone now. Ryfia: I wonder where Niko is? Rastan: You don't think he got caught, do you? (Niko appears) Niko: Hey! I heard that! I can't believe even you can't tell how skilled and useful I am, Leon! L'Arc: No, he knows exactly how skilled you are. That's why he's worried! Niko: Oh, you too, huh? I'll have you know that I finished your mission just like you asked me to! Ryfia: Are you okay? Did you see any scary bad guys? Niko: I'm not a little kid, Ryfia... Cecille: So what'd you find out? Niko: There weren't any guards watching Dragon Prison. I think most of the people that know us are out on the front lines now, so we should be safe around town. L'Arc: Alright. Let's head for Dragon Prison. (Niko rejoins the party. They head for Dragon Prison. At the entrance...) Ryfia: This place is really empty. Rastan: Yeah. Almost too empty. L'Arc: The monster defense forces were all taken out in Dynos' last attack. There are probably monsters all over the place now... Cecille: Dynos attacked this place? Niko: Yeah, and he was controlling this gross-looking monster, too! Man, he gets on my nerves! Ryfia: Niko, you know that Dynos is Cecille's... Niko: Oh... sorry. Cecille: It's okay. I know he's causing a lot of trouble for us all. Rastan: You and Dynos seem to have had a lot of combat training... Cecille: Well... Our dad was a pretty decent martial artist. He started training both Dynos and I as soon as we were old enough to walk. Dynos was such a crybaby back then... He'd run away and cry if anybody even touched him. L'Arc: Wow... Ryfia: Jealous, L'Arc? L'Arc: Huh? Yeah, I guess so. I don't even remember my dad. He was Leon's best friend. Had he been alive, he could've taught me how to use a sword... or something, at least. Rastan: Yeah, maybe... Cecille: But even if he was alive, you don't know if he would have done that or not. Ryfia: Why? Cecille: I don't know, I just get that feeling. Anyway, let's hurry up and find the great hero Cecille's Lightship! Niko: Stop calling yourself a hero! (The party enters Dragon Prison and rides the lift to the top of the tower. They look around for the Lightship) Cecille: Okay then, where is the Lightship?! Is it really hidden in this tower somewhere? (Niko points straight ahead) Niko: This way! I saw a door that looked different from the others down here. Come on! (Niko runs down the hall. Weiss appears and grabs Niko by the neck. He tosses him over his shoulder) Ryfia: Niko?! Weiss: ...So you've come to steal the 1000-year-old Lightship, eh? L'Arc: Prince Weiss... Weiss: I can't believe you're alive! I always knew you were something special! Your luck still astounds me. L'Arc: Why are you here...? Weiss: Border patrol said the Lightship stolen by Alfonse was spotted east of Topazion. I thought I would take care of him, but I heard you were trying to sneak into Jada. I got rid of the guards here so I could greet you. You should thank me. L'Arc: ...How did you find out?! Cecille: I bet it was that Mark guy. I just know that he spilled the beans! Ryfia: Spilled the beans? Rastan: We don't have time for that right now. Weiss: There's only four of you including the girls? That's not really much of a challenge. Very well! (Weiss removes the cape concealing his left arm. Underneath, his arm appears very demonic and dragon-like, with a stinger-shaped object jutting out of his shoulder, adorned with a wing and curved pincers, all of which are moving) L'Arc: Sir Weiss... What's wrong with your body...? Weiss: ...Oh? Do I scare you? This my friends, is Eesa's Curse. Of course, a puppet of Eesa like yourself wouldn't understand. L'Arc: Eesa's Curse? Weiss: That's right. Eesa's Curse... I could take the time to explain it, but I won't! Now die! (Weiss draws his sword. The party, minus Niko, battles Weiss) Weiss: ...More! Come on! L'Arc: W-What the...?! Weiss: Entertain me more! You really think you can kill me like that?! (Rastan slices Weiss with his sword) Cecille: Rastan?! Rastan: To the Lightship! I'll take care of this! (The party leaves to find the Lightship, leaving Rastan with Weiss. General Freya and her troops arrive) Freya: Your Highness?! What's going on here?! Weiss: ?! Rastan: Rahhh! (Rastan slices Weiss three more times and runs away to join the rest of the party) Weiss: Ungh! (The party, Niko included, finds and boards the Lightship. Cecille takes the controls) L'Arc: Think it'll run? Cecille: It looks really old, but I think we can get it to fly. (Back in the tower, the area begins to rumble) Freya: You must flee, Your Highness! It's too dangerous here! Weiss: ...I hesitated at the very end. Freya: ...What? Weiss: I, too, am nothing but a human being. (On the outside of the tower, the wing-shaped decoration on the front begins to glow, dropping rubble on the ground. It folds down and lowers, and a door opens. The Lightship takes off and flies away. Inside, L'Arc talks to his party members) Rastan L'Arc: Thanks for your help before... I knew they didn't call you "legendary" for nothing! Rastan: I told you... L'Arc: I know, I know. You're Rastan now. Cecille L'Arc: I had no idea you'd be able to get this thing flying. Cecille: Yeah, well... It being old actually helped me to get it working. I think Weiss said this already, but I'm pretty sure this thing is at least 1000 years old. It looks a lot like the Lightships I saw before I was put to sleep by the Lullaby. L'Arc: You really are ancient, aren't you? Cecille: I thought you would've figured that out by now! Niko and Ryfia Ryfia: Niko, are you okay? Niko: Urgh... That was rough...! L'Arc: Well it's your poor reconnaissance that caused all this in the first place! You should've at least checked to make sure that it wasn't a trap! Ryfia: But L'Arc, you're the one who didn't realize that Weiss knew about us being there in the first place! You shouldn't put all the blame on Niko like that. L'Arc: ...Hmph! Whatever! (The Lightship begins to shake) L'Arc: W-What the?! Cecille: Someone is attacking us! L'Arc: It must be the Imperial Army... Or could it be Alf?! (Outside, Alf's Lightship is firing lasers at the party's Lightship. It gets hit, it shakes and L'Arc loses his balance) L'Arc: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh! (He leans on to the railing) L'Arc: Can't we fire back?! Cecille: I- I don't know! I'm having enough trouble trying to fly this thing! (Alf's Lightship continues to shoot down the party's. A giant, golden bird-like creature appears and charges in between the two Lightships, hitting the party's and causing it to crash down) Ryfia: L'Arc, hang on... L'Arc: Ngh... What happened? Ryfia: We ran into some kind of flying monster while dodging Alf's attacks. Rastan: We crashed the Lightship... The inertial dampers saved our lives, but the Lightship's a total loss. Niko: After all that trouble, too... What'll we do now, Mr. L'Arc? L'Arc: Well, we'll just have to repair it. Ryfia: Do you think you can? L'Arc: Uh, no? We'll have to find a mechanic in the nearest town. We can't just let it sit there. Not after that ordeal! Cecille: But... where are we? Rastan: According to the gauges, we're somewhere to the northwest of Ebur. Ryfia: Okay. Ebur it is, then. L'Arc: I guess that's all we can do for now... Man, talk about bad luck... (The party leaves the Lightship and heads for Ebur) [------------------------------] [Gula Church Ruins--------(GCR)] [------------------------------] (The party arrives in Ebur) Niko: Now we're back in Ebur again... (An Imperial Soldier and Mark approach them) Imperial Soldier: Yo! You're from the Imperial Army, ain't ya? What are you doing around here? Niko: Uh? Well, um... Mark: Hey! Is that you, Bennex? You on a secret mission in Turemilia this time? Imperial Soldier: Secret mission? Mark: Bennex and his party are on a mission for Prince Weiss. L'Arc: Mark! Keep your big mouth shut! Mark: ...Oh! Imperial Soldier: A mission for Prince Weiss? L'Arc: I am Legionnaire L'Arc Bright Lagoon. We're on a secret mission from Prince Weiss himself. I'd appreciate it if you kept this quiet. Imperial Soldier: Y-yes sir! Cecille: You've been blabbing about us to everyone, haven't you? Mark: N-no! I haven't! Okay, I may've slipped up now, but... Ryfia: So you haven't spoken about us to anyone else? Mark: ...Sorry. After we parted at Galois Ravine, border watchmen thought you were suspicious and followed you. I wanted to explain that you were innocent, but... well, I kind of told them everything. Cecille: Hah. I knew you were a tattle-tale. Ryfia: What's a tattle-tale? Cecille: ... L'Arc: What's done is done. Just zip it in the future. Mark: I'm sorry! I'll be careful! (Mark and the soldier leave) Rastan: Guess they still don't know that we stole a Lightship and escaped. L'Arc: Yeah. We'll have to get that repaired before word arrives from Jada. Niko: You think we're gonna be able to find a Lightship engineer here? Even if there is one, he'll be part of the Army. L'Arc: It doesn't have to be a Lightship engineer. Any mechanic will do. For now, let's just see if we can find one to help us out. (The party searches for a mechanic in the town. They arrive at the Manufactory at the top of a hill, and meet Maria there) Maria: You're back? Didn't you return to the Empire? Niko: Well, stuff happened, and... You know. Ryfia: This isn't your house, is it, Maria? Maria: Oh, no. Grantz here is really good with machinery. He promised to fix my broken clock. Cecille: Say, do you think this Grantz guy can repair a Lightship? Maria: A Lightship...? L'Arc: We found the Lightship that Serge was talking about. We sort of, uh, crashed it, so we need a repairman right now. Maria: Hmm... Give me just one moment. (Maria goes talk to Grantz, and then both of them face the party) Grantz: Humph. So you're the idiots who broke your Lightship? Get out! I hate people who can't take care of their equipment. Ryfia: We didn't break it. We hit a huge bird, the same size as the Lightship. Grantz: ...A huge bird? Ryfia: Yes. Grantz: Where?! Where did you see that rotten Mashgar?! Ryfia: Marshmallow? Grantz: Mashgar! Ryfia: I don't know if it was... Mashgar, but the bird was pretty huge. Grantz: I heard you the first time! Tell me where it was! Ryfia: Over that way, I think? Grantz: Ugh, this is pointless. I'll just check the Lightship's black box. Where is it? Ryfia: Umm, over this way. Grantz: This way, that way... Is that the best directions you can give me? Rastan: The Lightship is in the woods to the northwest of the village. Grantz: Much better! (Grantz leaves to find the Lightship) Ryfia: Hee hee! Pretty spirited, isn't he? L'Arc: Glad he didn't get you down, I guess. Rastan: At least he'll take a look at the Lightship now. C'mon, we'd better catch up. Maria: Umm, can I come with you, too? Cecille: Why? Do you want to see a Lightship? Maria: Umm... yes. That's right. L'Arc: We'd better hurry if we want to catch Grantz, then. (The party leaves Ebur and meets Grantz in the Lightship) Maria: Wow... This is the Ship to the Stars. Ryfia: The Ship to the Stars? What's that? Maria: It's the ship my brother and sister were looking for... Grantz: Hey, you! What's with this rotor?! Niko: The rotor? It's, uh, a rotor? (Grantz hits Niko) Niko: Ow ow ow ow! Grantz: This thing's so old, I can't even find a black box on it! L'Arc: It's not our fault. We just stole it from Dragon Prison in Jada. Grantz: Dragon Prison...? So this is the Rogress Slayer? That thing actually exists? Ryfia: Do you know something about this, Grantz? Grantz: Not a lot. I heard that a ship built to capture Rogress in the Era of Loss was kept within Dragon Prison. Rastan: The Era of Loss... The time of the Dragon Descent, 1000 years ago. Cecille: Can you repair this ship? Grantz: I dunno... Machines were a lot different back then. I can't do anything without parts from another ship as old as this one. Niko: How're we supposed to get parts from a millennium ago!? Maria: I might have an idea. I remember the church where they looked after orphans like me... There was an old man who collected ancient pieces of machinery. My brother heard the story of the Ship to the Stars from him. L'Arc: Where is he now? Maria: Well, he's dead now... But I think the relics he collected are still in the church. Rastan: Let's go, then. L'Arc: Wow! I usually don't see you that proactive. Grantz: Do you mean that church on top of the hill? It's been sealed shut by the Aion Unit. Nobody's allowed there now. Rastan: No need to worry about that. I used to belong to the Aion Unit. Maria: Aion... Unit? Ryfia: Maria? Are you okay? You're looking rather pale. Grantz: Oh no! Not this again! She's having an attack! L'Arc: Attack? Grantz: She goes for hours without being able to speak. The trauma from her past comes back to haunt her like this. I'll take her back home. L'Arc: Wait a second. Tell us where that church is. Grantz: West of here. If you're going there, keep your eye out for a Gyro System chip, okay? Find me one of those, and I can probably make do with modern parts for the rest. (Grantz and Maria leave) Ryfia: I hope Maria is okay... Niko: Did something happen with her and the Aion Unit? Cecille: You mean the bodyguards who protect important North Noireism people like Ryfia? Rastan: ... L'Arc: C'mon. Sitting here thinking about it will get us nowhere. Leave Maria with the old geezer. Let's go and check out that church. (The party heads for the Gula Church Ruins. Once they get there...) Ryfia: Is this the church...? Cecille: We won't know until we go in. Rastan: Be careful. This place is supposed to be sealed off, but I think there's something inside. This may get complicated. Cecille: Never fear! Cecille's fists will crush anything that stands in our way. Niko: Wow... You've got pluck, kid. Ryfia: What do you think a Gyro System chip looks like? L'Arc: No idea. Let's just take anything that looks rare. Cecille: You acted so confident, I thought you knew what to look for. L'Arc: Pfft. Like I'd know anything about machinery from the Era of Loss. Rastan: I'll look, if you don't mind... Ryfia: Oh, thank you, Rastan! I knew you could help us out! Rastan: Heh... L'Arc: ... (The party enters the church. They find a door with a red seal inscribed on it) L'Arc: ...Huh? It's locked. Rastan: I'll get it. (Rastan waves his hands in front of the door. The seal disappears and the door opens) Niko: I wonder why the Aion Unit sealed off this church... Ryfia: Good question! If this is such an important church to North Noireism... Then it's very strange for it to be in this condition. Rastan: It's possible that this place wasn't officially sanctioned to be sealed off... L'Arc: What do you mean? Rastan: Someone in the Aion Unit may have done it for their own interests. Cecille: Why? Is it okay to do that? L'Arc: There's no way they'd be allowed to do that. The Aion Unit is a legitimate organization, right? Rastan: If they are, they're a very strict one. L'Arc: If... Rastan: Anyway, let's look inside. We came here to find a Gyro System chip. Ryfia: You're right. I hope those ancient machines Maria was talking about are still here. L'Arc: There's only one way to find out. (The party continues to search the church. Downstairs they search a bookcase and find many parts) L'Arc: ...I've never seen parts like these before. Rastan: Indeed. They look like parts dating back to the Era of Loss. Cecille: So, is this a Gyro System chip? Rastan: ...Yes, I believe that may well be it. Niko: But you're not sure, are you? Ryfia: Well why don't we just take everything to be sure? Cecille: Wow Ryfia, you're more easy-going than I thought. L'Arc: No, I think she's right. Let's take everything that looks important. (L'Arc takes the Lightship Parts from the bookcase) Rastan: Watch it! (A dagger ricochets off the ceiling and nearly hits the party. Niko falls down. Ryfia blocks another incoming dagger with her staff. The thrower is revealed to be Serge. Serge throws another dagger. Niko grabs Ryfia's leg. Cecille ducks to avoid the dagger. Serge kicks Niko away and grabs Ryfia by the throat, holding another dagger) Serge: That's enough! Don't move! Move and Ryfia's pretty head will roll! L'Arc: Serge?! Serge: Nobody will be harmed if you cooperate. Cecille: How could you? Only a coward takes hostages! Serge: Shut up! Listen! Break the seal on that door. You can do it, can't you Rastan? (There is another door with a seal behind Rastan) Rastan: ... L'Arc: What are you doing? What's behind that door? Serge: Nothing to do with you. ...Well, maybe a little to do with Rastan! Rastan: Sorry to disappoint you. I don't know anything about this place! Serge: Enough banter! Just open the door and I'll let Ryfia go. Do it! (L'Arc nods and Rastan goes to open the door) Rastan: How odd... Cecille: What is it? Rastan: By opening this door, we'll alert the Aion Unit to our presence. Niko: Oh, yeah. We don't have permission to be here... Serge: Well, if you don't like it, you're free to leave. Now open the door! Rastan: ...Fine then. (Rastan tries to open the door. A clicking noise is heard) L'Arc: Whoa! It's a trap! (The block that L'Arc, Rastan, Cecille and Niko are standing on crumbles away. They fall through the hole and land in the basement below. L'Arc and Rastan look around. Cecille rubs her head in pain) Cecille: Ow, ow, ow... What was that? Niko: Cecille, get off me! I'm in pain here! (Cecille gets up) Cecille: Hah hah! I'm sorry! Niko: Hey! Come on! That's not funny at all! L'Arc: Rastan, what's going on? Rastan: I don't know... I'm guessing this place wasn't sanctioned to be sealed off... So the Code to break the seal didn't work. When the Code was rejected... L'Arc: It set off the trap. (Two dragon enemies appear. A magic blast appears and hits them. Serge drops into the room) Serge: Move it! Leave this to me! L'Arc: You're gonna take on a Feldragon alone? Serge: I don't have a choice. I'm the one who got you caught up in this... Ryfia: Get, get out of the... (Ryfia falls into L'Arc's arms) Ryfia: Way!!! L'Arc: What are you doing down here? Ryfia: I thought I'd help you. L'Arc: You can't help us by falling in too! Ryfia: Well, Serge fell in, didn't he? I thought I probably should, too. Was I wrong? (L'Arc puts Ryfia down. Cecille waves to the party) Cecille: L'Arc! Behind you! (More dragons appear) L'Arc: Ergh! Guess it's time to fight! Cecille: Over here, people! (The party runs into the doorway Cecille is in. The door closes, trapping the dragons on the other side) Serge: What's a Feldragon doing in a place like this? L'Arc: Serge, why did you do that? Rastan: ...Let me explain. Serge: No! That can wait until we're out of here! Wouldn't that be better, Rastan? Rastan: ...Yeah. L'Arc: That's fine. I don't think this door is gonna last much longer against a Feldragon anyway! (Serge joins the party. They try to find a way out of the Facilities. Ryfia notices something inside one of the cells nearby) Ryfia: Somebody's there! Cecille: I wonder who... If he's in an Aion Unit facility, then he must be a criminal, right? Ryfia: Even so, locking him up with a Feldragon running loose is just horrible! Let's help him, L'Arc. L'Arc: What about the lock, though? Serge: It's an old-fashioned one. I'll open it. (Serge opens the cell door. The man inside walks out) L'Arc: Hey... (A roar is heard. The man transforms into a humanoid dragon and roars again) L'Arc: What the?! Cecille: Umm... Is he human? Or something else? Rastan: ... Ryfia: He... looks like Prince Weiss. (Serge kills the dragon-man) L'Arc: Whoa... Hey... Serge: You're a mercenary, aren't you? Human or not, an enemy is an enemy. Fight or die! L'Arc: Yeah... you're right. (The party continues through the facilities, fighting more humanoid dragons known as Sauroids. In one room, L'Arc finds a Blue Bracelet inside a bookcase) L'Arc: A Code is engraved on it. (He uses the bracelet to break the blue seal on a door, opening it. The party prepares to head upstairs when they hear a crash and another dragon roar) Niko: What... What was that?! Serge: The Feldragon broke through the door. (Niko hides behind L'Arc) L'Arc: Hiding behind me isn't going to help you. Rastan: It wouldn't be wise to fight the Feldragon here. Even if Ryfia can suppress the Felburst, it's crazy to fight one without a place to hide! Cecille: Maybe so, but I'm not scared of fighting an exploding enemy underground! Ryfia: My, how brave. I think we should try to get out of here first, though. (The party heads upstairs. They come to a laboratory. Two brain-like substances are floating in two large, glass tubes) L'Arc: ...! Cecille: What... is that?! L'Arc: Human... or Feldragon? Niko: Errgh... Serge: Rastan...! What is that thing? Rastan: ...I don't know. Serge: You don't know? Weren't you a member of the Aion Unit? Rastan: Yes, but... Serge: But?! It's obviously a human experiment! It's a human that was turned into a Feldragon! L'Arc: !!! Ryfia: You can do that sort of thing? Cecille: Huh... Hold on a moment. Are you saying that half-Feldragon thing used to be a person? L'Arc: You used to be part of the Aion Unit. Do you know anything about this, Rastan? Rastan: Nothing. Our first duty was to protect North Noireism. We've never dealt in these kinds of tests or experiments. Serge: Something else is obviously going on behind the facade, though. (The Feldragon roars again) L'Arc: Let's just get out of here. That Feldragon is still after us! Cecille: Yeah... what if that guy used to be human too, though? L'Arc: You're not gonna refuse to fight it because of that, are you? Human or Feldragon. What's the difference? An enemy is an enemy! We all get our hands dirty at one time or another. Ryfia: L'Arc! Cecille is just a little girl! L'Arc: Boy, girl, old, young, rich or poor... It doesn't matter! There's no law in the real world! I don't care if you had a sheltered life, Ryfia. Once you're out in the real world... Serge: L'Arc! You're scared... and that makes you angry. But that doesn't mean you can take your anger out on them! L'Arc: You're right. Sorry. I went too far. I'm not feeling well, I guess. Serge: Well let's just get outta here. It'd be nice if we could find out what this place is, too. (The party continues to find a way out. They enter another lab) L'Arc: What is this place? Rastan: Probably a laboratory of some kind. Serge: Keep going. I'm going to check this place out. Ryfia: Let's help him. Niko: What?! There's a Feldragon chasing us, remember! L'Arc: Judging by the sound, we still have a little time. We can work together. Serge: H-hey... L'Arc: I don't know why, but for some reason you're really interested in this place. We can help you out. I gotta repay you for the Lightship. Cecille: Well, great! Let's turn this place upside down! Serge: We were even before... The Lightship was thanks for Maria. (They access a nearby computer terminal) Ryfia: What the...? L'Arc: What's the matter, Ryfia? Ryfia: Look! L'Arc: Transforming Code using Hozone? Ryfia: It's a research paper about using Hozone in human experiments! This facility housed experiments in using Hozone to transform humans into Feldragons. Serge: What are those scum doing in my house?! L'Arc: You mean the Aion Unit? But... (Cecille taps the keyboard and finds something on the computer) Cecille: Look! There're still records of the experiments. (Cecille accesses another file on the computer) Cecille: 001, Ellie Code Conversion Results. Symmetrical matrix, full Feldragon transformation. Body type green. Serge: Ellie... (Cecille accesses another file) Cecille: 002, Selena Code Conversion Results. Inverted matrix, partial Feldragon transformation. Serge: Selena?! Cecille: It says that a problem during transformation resulted in the Dragon stone fusing with the body. Did you know them, Serge? (The Feldragon roars again) L'Arc: We're almost out of time. Let's go before that thing catches us. (The party, minus Serge, leaves. L'Arc turns around) L'Arc: Serge! Move it! (L'Arc leaves. Serge takes once last look at the computer and then rejoins the party. They prepare to head upstairs again when they hear another, more faint Feldragon roar) Ryfia: I think we lost it for now. Niko: Great! Now we can escape! L'Arc: Serge... You were brought up here, weren't you? Serge: ...Yeah. L'Arc: And the human subjects back in the lab...? Serge: My family from the church. When we escape, Rastan, you better tell me everything you know. (The party heads upstairs. In the corridors ahead, they find a sealed door with a blue seal on it at the very end of the hallway. They open it and find a door with a red seal up the stairs. They open that as well and end up back in the room where they found the Lightship parts and fell through the floor. They look around) Cecille: Now we're right back where we started, aren't we? (Niko wipes the sweat off his brow with his arm) Niko: Phew, I guess we were able to lose it, huh? (A large, humanoid Feldragon appears behind Niko. He turns around) Niko: Whoa!! (The monster swipes at Niko with its claw and sends him colliding with the wall) Ryfia: Niko?! (The Feldragon roars. Serge notices the Dragon Gem under its neck) Serge: ...! Cecille: What'll we do, L'Arc? We can't get out without fighting that thing. Ryfia: But this... this used to be Serge's friend, didn't it? L'Arc: Maybe if we can distract it somehow... Serge: Don't be stupid! This place is too close to Ebur. If this thing gets out, who knows what it'll do! (He pulls out a dagger) Serge: We have to finish it here. Ryfia: B-But... Rastan: According to the records, there's no way we can change it back into a human. Serge is right. No good will come of this if we let it get away. L'Arc: Alright... Let's go! (The party, minus Niko, battles the Feldragon, known as Kahner. They destroy it. Serge picks up Selena's Gem from the floor) Serge: ...All right. Let's get outta here. L'Arc: Agreed. Cecille: Huh? Hey, where'd Niko go? Rastan: Looks like he's already escaped. L'Arc: That little coward! Ryfia: ...Are you sad, Serge? Serge: Is that how I look? Ryfia: Yes... It must be painful. Serge: Hmph. I guess I still need more training. Ryfia: ...? Serge: Never mind. Come on, sweetie, let's go. (The party leaves the church. Outside, Walter, along with four Aion Unit soldiers who take the appearance of young girls, are waiting for them) Ryfia: Walter! Why are you here? Walter: Well well, look who we have here! I see you've been trespassing in my laboratory! L'Arc: Wha...? (Serge throws a dagger at Walter. He tilts his head and dodges it. Serge rushes up to Walter and attacks him with another dagger. Walter blocks it with his sword) Walter: That blow didn't take your life, but it did take your left arm... Serge: I still have my Magic. Walter: You think you can beat me with your pathetic sword magic? Rastan: Don't forget about me, Commander Ignacy! L'Arc: Ignacy?! Ryfia: Walter, it can't be?!? Cecille: ...Old man Zamuel's enemy! Ignacy: This is quite a problem. Hosea has ordered me to protect the Imaginal Diva and the Child of Eesa. But what am I to do when you're so hostile towards me? L'Arc: What's going on? Does the Aion Unit handle assassinations, too? Serge: They're the Senate's assassin unit. Ryfia: No way... Rastan: It's the truth. I was one of the Aion Unit's assassins. Ignacy: This is quite a predicament. No one outside of the Republic knows the truth about the Aion Unit. That's a breach of confidentiality, you know. L'Arc: Did the Senate order Master Zamuel's assassination? Ignacy: No. That was just personal curiosity. I wanted to test the strength of one of the elite Lord Knights. It turns out that I'm stronger. L'Arc: You... You killed Gramps out of curiosity?! You'll pay for that! (The party enters battle with Ignacy. They lose and are strewn on the ground after the battle) Ignacy: I thought I told you. It's my duty to protect you... Although those three aren't part of my orders. Especially Leon. You are the only man who ever managed to hurt me. With your death, the three central members of the Lord Knights will have fallen by my hand. I've no idea why they were ever called the strongest in Fulheim. L'Arc: What...? Three Lord Knights? You killed my father, Rex Lagoon! Ignacy: Oh, my. So you're his son? Destiny can be such an ironic thing sometimes, no? Now, watch as your father's last friend dies before your eyes! (Ignacy prepares to deal the final blow when a gunshot appears and knocks his sword out of his hand) Ignacy: Who dares?! (The shooter is revealed to be none other than Leslie, who's standing on top of a cliff) Leslie: I heard a very interesting story. It turns out that QED, the "Night Queen" special-forces unit within the Reductio... was really the Aion Unit. (Niko appears with reinforcements from the Empire) Niko: It's here! The Feldragon that killed Mr. L'Arc and everyone! L'Arc: We're not dead yet! Niko: Mr. L'Arc?! Why are you alive? Ignacy: The Imperial Army... Imperial Soldier: Where is the Feldragon? What are you all doing here? Leslie: Oh, dear! We've got a little situation here. (Leslie fires a a bullet from her gun that releases a smokescreen) L'Arc: Everybody, run! (The party flees) Ignacy: Rrngh! Seal off the facility! (Igancy's soldiers go to seal off the church. L'Arc and the others meet back in Ebur)' Niko: ...What happened?! L'Arc: Niko! How can you abandon your friends so easily? Niko: I wasn't abandoning you! I was going to g-g-get help... Ryfia: If he didn't summon the Imperial Army, we might not have made it out of there at all. Please forgive him. Cecille: Fine... I'm not happy that you abandoned us, but I guess it worked out in the end. With all this fuss, the Imperial Army might start looking around and find the Lightship. L'Arc: You're right. Let's ask Grantz to fix the Lightship. We can deal with Niko later. Serge: I'm coming along too. I want a word with Rastan. L'Arc: ...Whatever. (The party heads to the Manufactory. They meet with Grantz in the Manufactory) Grantz: Oh it's you! Did you find a Gyro System chip? L'Arc: We brought along some things that may be it. (L'Arc hands the Lightship Parts over to Grantz) Grantz: Woo-hoo! Just you wait, Mashgar! (Grantz runs away) L'Arc: Hey, hold on! (Maria enters) Maria: Grantz! A Feldragon near the church... Grantz: Tell me later, Maria! (Grantz leaves. She notices the party) Maria: Y-You! Serge: Maria... (Serge gives her Selena's Gem) Maria: You... gave this to our sister Selena. Serge: ...I found it at the church. Keep it to remember Selena by. Maria: Are you going somewhere again? Everyone's gone... Please stay with me. Serge: I can't. You'll be killed too if I stay. Maria: Then protect me! I know you can! You're Lightning Leon! L'Arc: Leon...?! He is? Ryfia: Isn't Rastan Leon? Rastan: For the millionth time, no! Cecille: Wait... what? Serge: ...It's true. I am Leon. Together with Rex and Zamuel, we gathered skillful warriors and formed the Lord Knights. Cecille: But Leon was a swordmaster. You're a magic user. Serge: Sadly, my good arm was severely injured fighting Ignacy. I'm not still hurt or anything, but I can no longer wield a sword like I used to. L'Arc: If you're Leon, then what were you doing with that band of thieves...? Were you trying to help Adele? Serge: I wasn't in any band of thieves. I snuck into their hideout after Zamuel called me. That's when I ran into you. Niko: Why didn't you call yourself Leon, then? Serge: Because Ignacy thought he had killed me. Maria: Leon... Serge: Well, that's why I can't fight like I used to. And that's why you're staying, Maria. Here with Selena. Maria: Okay... Serge: Are we going to catch up with Grantz or not, L'Arc? L'Arc: Ah, yeah... Serge: Right, then let's go! (The party leaves to catch up with Grantz. They encounter Leslie at the entrance to Ebur) Leslie: Hello! I've come to pick up Serge. Serge: I guess you're going to put me in solitary again, huh? Leslie: Oh dear, you don't want to come back again? Serge: Things have changed. There's no point dealing with Alf any longer. Leslie: All right... I'll let him know. Ryfia: Leslie! Thank you for helping us! Leslie: Bam! Ryfia: ...! Leslie: You're my enemy, remember. Take care, now! (Leslie leaves) L'Arc: She's right, Ryfia. Don't be so careless! Ryfia: I'm sorry, but... L'Arc: No buts! Ryfia: ...Okay. (The party leaves Ebur. They find the Lightship and enter it) Serge: Whoa... So this is the bridge of the Ship to the Stars. L'Arc: Serge... Why did Ignacy kill my father? Serge: Ignacy was after the Olquina Diva. We were employed by the Diva. We stopped him, and saved the Diva's daughter, Adele. But then the church was attacked in retaliation. We found Ignacy and were about to exact our revenge when we were betrayed. Cecille: Wait a second... You don't mean by... Serge: That's right. Rastan Oigen. His betrayal cost my friend Rex his life. L'Arc: W-What do you mean, he betrayed you? Why?! Serge: Ignacy was holding Rastan's family hostage. L'Arc: ..! Serge: Rex knew that and willingly fell on Rastan's blade. But Rastan couldn't finish him. In the end, it was Ignacy who killed him. "Rastan's heart is loyal to us. I forbid you to seek revenge." Those were Rex's dying words. Rastan: I lived this long for one reason... To have Rex's son kill me. So go ahead. Do it. L'Arc: I... I... Rastan: ...I'm sorry. I'm being terribly selfish. I will do it myself. (Rastan prepares to leave) Ryfia: Wait, Rastan! Why won't you stop him, L'Arc?! Cecille: Forget it, Ryfia! Rastan murdered L'Arc's father! Ryfia: But Rastan risked his life over and over to save L'Arc! Rastan was always so kind to L'Arc. I can't just watch while someone tries to end their life. Rastan: Ryfia... How do you think L'Arc feels? L'Arc: You don't know how I feel! Rastan: L'Arc... L'Arc: If I kill you, then your family will seek revenge against me next. I'm letting you live. You need to live so you can face up to what you did... So you can pay for it! Rastan: ...All right. L'Arc: And you, Serge... Serge: Yah? L'Arc: Will you come with us? Serge: Scouting me, huh? Just because I'm not with Alf anymore doesn't mean I'm on your side. L'Arc: I think you said something like that before. What's it matter anyway? Right now, my only real enemy is Ignacy. He's yours too, right? Serge: ...Hmph. You're sounding rather persuasive. (Grantz joins the group) Grantz: Hey! I've finished repairs! Serge: So you really knew nothing about the experiments under the church, Rastan? Rastan: I swear on the name of my family. I knew nothing. Serge: Okay, then. It's not every day I get to travel with Rex's son... L'Arc: Then it's decided. Grantz: Are you leaving straight away? L'Arc: Yeah... thanks to you, Grantz. Grantz: Pfft. I just wanted to hear about Mashgar. It's time for me to get back to Ebur! (Grantz leaves) Cecille: Well, the Lightship is fixed. What are we going to do now? Ryfia: Look for Rogress, of course! They're in four locations. You're the Child of Eesa, L'Arc. You should decide where we go next. L'Arc: Whichever one is fine, right? Ryfia: Yes. Wherever your heart guides you. L'Arc: Good! Let's go! [-----------------------------] [Rogress Hunting 1-------(RH1)] [-----------------------------] Niko: Hmm hmm hmmm. Serge: Niko, what's with the humming? Ryfia: Woh, Niko's piloting the Lightship? Serge: Not quite. Ryfia: Oh, Cecille's there too. I didn't see her behind Niko. Niko: Figured it out already? It's so much fun up here! It's like I'm piloting the ship myself. Cecille: Hmm hmm hmmm. Serge: Now he's got you doing it! So that's why you haven't sent him out the window already! L'Arc: So... how's she handle? Is it different from the other Lightships? Niko: At first glance the control panel is totally different, but after a while, it's just like the Imperial Army ships. Rastan: The Imperial warships probably inherited the control technology from this ship. It's kind of like a de-evolution. L'Arc: De-evolution, huh? Cecille, could you run through the controls for the Lightship please? I don't want to crash it again, but I want the others to know how to pilot it, just in case. Cecille: Good idea. (Cecille explains the Lightship's controls and where it can and cannot land) L'Arc: You really surprise me Cecille! Did everyone know how to pilot a Lightship in the past? I trained when I became a licensed mercenary, but you're not even in the military. Niko: Yeah, you're really good. Did your family have its own Lightship? Cecille: No, but I rode them a bunch of times. So I just kind of picked it up. L'Arc: Cool. We wouldn't even think of letting a kid pilot a Lightship. Rastan: They most certainly didn't let children fly Lightships when I was a kid! Niko: Huh? So what did you do? Cecille: It's easy. First, set your eyes on a parked Lightship. Niko: Uh huh. Cecille: And then... Ryfia: And then? Cecille: Jump into it, close the door with your hand, and bam! Niko: Jump in, close the door, and... bam? Cecille: Yup! Then just force the thing to fly! L'Arc: So you stole them?! Cecille: Isn't that what we just did? Serge: You really are odd Cecille! Cecille: See! (The party rides off to collect Rogress) [Transcriber's Note: Due to their non-linear nature and numerous outcomes, I have separated the events that occur in the Rogress dungeons from the main section of the script, and have put them in their own section. It should be noted that these events don't impact the main storyline in any major way. If you wish to read about what happens in the Rogress dungeons, please skip to the "Mandatory Rogress" section of this guide. The main section will now continue with the main storyline.] (The party rides the Lightship to one of four Rogress dungeons and either claims a Rogress or loses it to Alf's party. The party is about to leave the dungeon when they stop to talk) L'Arc: Bond with Rogress... Choose a law... Ryfia: L'Arc...? L'Arc: Hm? Oh, nothing. I was just thinking. Is it okay to keep this up when we don't know the connection between Hosea and the Aion Unit? Serge: I doubt the Patriarch is oblivious to the Aion Unit's true colors, but the QED's under Senate control. They wouldn't act without Director Greenhill's orders. Niko: Ah, the joys of politics! Cecille: Were the Feldragon experiments just Ignacy acting on his own? L'Arc: That's what I want to know. Even if Rastan didn't know...I wonder if other Aion Unit members did? Was he acting under someone's orders? If so, were they from the Senate? Were followers of North Noireism aware of it? Ryfia: ............ L'Arc: Maybe we're following Imaginal's Law here... But it might come back to haunt us. Cecille: You're saying that after we save the world, the Republic could turn around and destroy the Empire? Serge: Look, L'Arc. You might not want to see the Empire go down in flames... But to people in the Republic, it'd be very welcome news. L'Arc: What...?! Serge: Calm down. Hey, Ignacy's my enemy, too, right? I told you before. Deciding who's a friend and who's your foe is tough. Cecille: Yeah. All we know is that if the Rogress are all taken, then the world will be crystallized. L'Arc: I... guess you're right. (The party leaves the dungeon) [----------------------------------------] [Opalus and Resolvent Iceberg-------(ORI)] [----------------------------------------] (Back in the Lightship...) L'Arc: Man, having such a near miss with Alf... Niko: We're lucky the Lightship wasn't attacked. If the Lightship was still broken, we wouldn't have been able to move. Serge: I think we have a genius here. Niko: Huh?! Serge: And I thought I was smart! Rastan: Serge set up the defenses on the Lightship. Cecille: You mean like the monster repellers set up in towns? Serge: Well, something like that. It provides protection against all kinds of attacks for a short time. You know, just in case. Ryfia: Is it working now? L'Arc: It takes time to set up. You can't use it in the air, either. (Cecille examines the Lightship's monitor and sees something) Cecille: Oh! Hey, look! (The others take a look) Niko: That's an Imperial Army Lightship! Ryfia: I wonder where it's going? Rastan: Judging by the direction, I'd say it's headed to Opalus. Serge: Come to think of it, Opalus hasn't been occupied by the Empire yet... Cecille: What?! Does that mean they plan to attack the Republic again? Serge: Give me a break! How much more of our country are they going to lay waste to? L'Arc! We have to let Opalus know! Niko: But... we're Imperial soldiers. L'Arc: Not any longer. Our contract with the Empire has ended. I don't want Opalus to end up like another Antrax. Rastan: What about the Rogress? L'Arc: Nine Rogress have to be gathered, right? Even if we fall behind Alf because of this, we'll still have time to catch up. Ryfia: L'Arc's right! Let's warn the people of Opalus. Cecille: Okay. Opalus is here, right? Full steam ahead! (The party rides the Lightship to the northernmost continent and enters the snowy city of Opalus) Cecille: So who are you going to tell about the Imperial Army? Rastan: Since Serge is with us, we're going to see the local commander. Niko: What's so special about Serge? Rastan: Opalus' commander is Lieutenant General Elliot. He got on well with the Lord Knights. It's only natural that he'd recognize the Lord Knights' leader. Cecille: Really? Serge: Really, truly, my mighty mini Minimal Lady. Cecille: Don't call me minimal! Niko: Let's try and find the command headquarters. L'Arc: ... Niko: Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: ...Huh? Umm, yeah, sure. Cecille: C'mon, L'Arc, keep it together! Ryfia, back me up here! Ryfia: ... Cecille: Ryfia? Ryfia: Eh...? Umm, L'Arc can decide. Niko: She's not listening either. Cecille: Fine! We can leave these lazy bums to themselves. So, which way to headquarters, Serge? Serge: It's near the Military Academy. You can't miss it. Cecille: Right. Onward! (The party leaves, but Serge stays behind) Serge: ...Phew. Young'uns sure have a lot of energy! ...Although I think she may be a special case. (Serge rejoins the party. They all head for the command headquarters at the Military Academy and run into Alf's party at the entrance) L'Arc: Alf...! Alf: L'Arc...! Dynos: Should we finish them here? Clyde: You idiot! Have you forgotten Sir Alf's wishes?! (Adele stands before L'Arc) Alf: Adele! Adele: Are you afraid of me? We've been together ever since we were children. What was I to you, L'Arc? L'Arc: You're you, Adele. Adele: That's not what I'm asking you! L'Arc: I thought of you as my little sister. Adele: Your little sister...? I always knew it... Even then, I would've been happy if I could stay beside you forever. I thought that if I became the Olquina Diva, I would always be with you... Like Ryfia. L'Arc: Adele... I... Alf: But you didn't want that, did you?! Why did you choose Ryfia, just like that? You made a pact without knowing anything about Imaginal's Law, didn't you? L'Arc: We couldn't do anything else! Alf: Then what about now? Do you really understand Imaginal's Law? Don't you get it?! That will lead to the destruction of mankind! Are you going to just brush that off? That's what you always do! (Leslie enters the scene) Leslie: Kids! Settle down! I thought I heard a racket. Are you still here? I don't have time to be messing with some children's love game. Adele: ...Hmph! (Adele and Dynos run off) Cecille: Dynos! Clyde: I think it's about time we left too, Sir Alf. Alf: Okay. L'Arc, you're like how I used to be... Every choice you made, you think you made it by yourself. Is that really enough? Is Imaginal's Law really the path that you should follow? Think carefully. (Alf and Clyde exit) Leslie: What are you doing here? The soldiers here in Opalus are gonna arrest you. Cecille: That doesn't matter when the Imperial Army is on its way here. Rastan: I know that face... Serge: I want to meet with Lieutenant General Elliot. Turemilian Senate Guard, Archon Unit Commander, Captain Leslie Ferrati. Ryfia: Leslie is captain of the Archon Unit? Cecille: What's the Archon Unit? L'Arc: A special unit sworn to protect the Senate and its affiliates. Only the Republic's elite get in. I never would have guessed you were the captain. Leslie: Used to be... Anyway, come on. (Leslie leads the party to Lieutenant General Elliot's office in the Faculty Wing of the school) Serge: It's good to see you, Lieutenant General Elliot. It's been 18 years, eh? You were still a captain then. Elliot: ...Leon? Is that you?! Serge: The one and only! Elliot: I heard you had died! Good thing they were only rumors. You seem a bit different, though... Serge: I was just a 14- or 15-year-old punk back then. L'Arc: What?! You led a mercenary company when you were 14?! Rastan: From what I heard, it was more like Rex and Zamuel keeping this bratty kid from getting hurt. Serge: Just keep your trap shut! Commander, the Imperial Army is approaching. Is there any way that we can provide assistance? These are my friends. Some of them wear Imperial Army uniforms, but they're just mercenaries. Elliot: Well, should we ask them to deal with the problem? That way, I can have you keep watch over Prince Alf. Ryfia: ...What do you mean? Elliot: Prince Alf warned us of the Imperial Army's impending attack. He also suggested a very effective defense strategy. But, he is what he is. It doesn't matter if I have Captain Leslie. I can't believe everything Alf tells me. Leslie: I'll keep him under surveillance on the frontline. If necessary, he'll be used as a hostage. Cecille: The frontline? ...Is that safe? Leslie: Of course not. But the Prince seems happy to go there. L'Arc: What's the strategy? We'll help, too. Leslie: Okay, listen up. (Leslie tells them the plan) L'Arc: I see... A permafrost defense shield utilizing Ray... That will protect us from physical attacks and hopefully shut out all the invaders. Rastan: A defense shield powered by Ray? That's unusual. To control that much Ray requires a very powerful Magician. Serge: Ah-ha! That would be Adele... She's inherited the power of a Diva. With that power and wisdom, she should be able to control it. Cecille: Even a defense shield of that size? Leslie: Technically, it's possible. I'm a military academy grad, too. I've been involved in developing a defense shield called the "Snowy Project" since I was a student there. Prince Alf devised his strategy after he heard about it. Ryfia: From what you've said, it doesn't sound like you've considered the toll on the Diva. If things go badly, Adele could be in serious trouble. Leslie: That's why reinforcements will be summoned from Carbunculus before that happens. Elliot: Which is what I want you to do. It pains me to put our Diva in such danger, but... Serge: Y'know, L'Arc, that Lightship you stole has a nice engine under the hood. It's way faster than any ordinary Lightship. Let's go to Carbunculus. Cecille: Yeah! The "Cecille the Brave" could be there in no time. L'Arc: "Cecille the Brave"?! You can't just name the ship like that! Ryfia: Let's go to Carbunculus, L'Arc. L'Arc: Fine. The Imperial Army won't be able to cover all this new territory, anyway. Let's put a stop to Sir Weiss' little excursion, shall we? Rastan: We must make haste to Carbunculus. Leslie: We're relying on you. Here are your papers from headquarters. (Leslie hands them the HQ Missive) Leslie: Don't worry about returning. After the defense shield goes up, you won't be able to get back in. Niko: Carbunculus, huh? Hope I don't get arrested again! (The party leaves Opalus and rides the Lightship, "Cecille the Brave," to Carbunculus. They head for the Senate and then converse with the guards at its entrance to let them in) Cecille: Pretty please! Gate Guard: Are you with Lagoon the Cursed?! Niko: Whoa! They're gonna kill us! Serge: When will you ever stop being a coward, Niko? Rastan: Patriarch Hosea has guaranteed our safety. Lower your weapons. Cecille: We're messengers from Lieutenant General Elliot in Opalus! Ryfia: Please let us through. Opalus is in jeopardy! Right, L'Arc? L'Arc: ...Eh? Umm, yeah. I want to meet with Director Greenhill. Gate Guard: You may pass. But if you make any funny moves... You'll be thrown straight into the dungeon! Serge: Okay, okay. Whatever. (The party enters the Senate. They make their way to the Conference Hall and meet with Director Shelly Greenhill and the Senators) Shelly: Meridian dog... no, Lagoon the Cursed! L'Arc: Huh...? Shelly: You're still a Meridian legionnaire, even if you did give it up. We cannot forgive Crown Prince Weiss' incursion. Rastan: We came here to protect Opalus from that very incursion. Shelly: What...? L'Arc: The Imperial Army is advancing on Opalus. The Snowy Project defense shield is up, but it's only a matter of time before it falters. Shelly: The fools! What are they thinking?! The Snowy Project is not ready yet! Ryfia: Here are our papers from Lieutenant General Elliot. Please send reinforcements straight away. (Ryfia hands Shelly the HQ Missive) Senator: Hmph... Think we'll be fooled by your lies? L'Arc: Huh...? Senator: You want us to move troops away from Carbunculus so you can attack in their absence. A classic Imperial Army maneuver if ever I saw one! Avlice: We won't be fooled, Director! Mercenaries change loyalties more often than their clothes. Who knows when their type will betray us to the Empire? Serge: Ha ha ha! Senators, your reputation for suspicion precedes you. To a mercenary, his contract is his life. L'Arc is bound in contract to Lieutenant General Elliot. He is not the kind of mercenary to betray a contract. Ryfia: L'Arc is telling you the truth! Please believe him! Avlice: Enough of your childish games, Diva! The country's future depends on this! We don't have the time for an ignorant little girl like you! Ryfia: ...! Shelly: Are you referring to me, Avlice? Avlice: N-No... Shelly: I see no reason to doubt these papers. It may be vexing to trust Lagoon the Cursed, but we must follow our Diva and send reinforcements. All those in agreement, please raise your hand. (The Senators raise their hands) Shelly: ...Right. Send orders to the Commander-in-Chief forthwith. Niko: We did it! Cecille: What now, though? Even if we go back to Opalus, we can't get in with that shield up. L'Arc: Maybe we can let them know what's happening from outside. Let's go back to Opalus. I know what Leslie said, but I'm still worried. Ryfia: ... (The party is about to leave Carbunculus, but a woman's voice stops them) ???: Wait! Please... (The woman reveals herself) Ryfia: Umm... Yes? ???: Are you with Lagoon the... Oh, sorry, are you with L'Arc Bright Lagoon? L'Arc: That would be me. ???: Excuse my rudeness. I just heard from the Head Senator... My sister is in Opalus. Is it true that Leslie Ferrati is there? Serge: Pardon me, missus. If you're talking about a strikingly beautiful former Archon Unit captain, then yes. She's in Opalus. ???: Then I beg you, please send her this message. "Come home." Cecille: Huh? What do you mean? L'Arc: Leslie is traveling as part of her duties, isn't she? ???: My sister's out of the army. She quit to take responsibility for a mission failure. After that, she ran away, so... Niko: A failed mission? She quit over that? L'Arc: Don't compare her with your standards... ???: My sister was in charge of protecting my husband the Senator. But, he was murdered by an assassin and my sister has always blamed herself. Rastan: I think you should pass on her message, L'Arc. L'Arc: Yeah... You're right. By the way, what's your name? Angie: Oh, excuse me. My name is Angie. Please find my sister, L'Arc, and let her know that I'm waiting. L'Arc: I will. (Angie leaves) Niko: ...Hey, Serge. How did you know she was married? Serge: Oh, easy! There was a ring on her left ring finger. L'Arc: Talk about eagle eyes... Serge: Basics, kiddies, basics! Gathering intelligence is a must. Of course, the way to capture a married woman's heart is different from grabbing a widow's... Ryfia: How can you capture someone's heart? Do you have to set a trap for it or something? Serge: How can you ask that with a straight face? L'Arc: C'mon, Ryfia! (L'Arc and Ryfia walk away) Cecille: You're horrible, Serge! Niko: Disgusting! Rastan: How could you say that in front of Rex's son?! Serge: I was kidding. You know, I really think you need to sit down with Rex's son and have a proper talk. Rastan: ... (The party leaves Carbunculus, returns to their Lightship, and flies to Opalus. Once they get there, they notice that the Snowy Project defense shield is already raised. Several Imperial Army ships float in front of the shield and shoot lasers at it, trying to break through to Opalus) Ryfia: Look, L'Arc! L'Arc: So that's the permafrost defense shield! Niko: Looks like it could break at any moment. Cecille: At this rate, it won't last until the reinforcements arrive. Ryfia: Oh, no! It's cracking! Serge: This is bad... But now we can land in town. L'Arc: Good. Let's report to the Commander and see how Alf and the others are doing. Ryfia: We have to hurry! Rastan: ... (The party flies the LIghtsip through the crack in the shield and enters Opalus. They head into Lieutenant General Elliot's office) Elliot: Leon! How did it go? Serge: My number one protege will fill you in. L'Arc: I'm not your protege! (L'Arc fills Elliot in on the situation) Elliot: Great! So reinforcements are coming! But will the defensive shield hold? Rastan: It looked as though the Shield faltered just a moment ago. Elliot: Yes. A small crack opened, and it was enough for some Imperial Soldiers to get in. But, we're regrouping now. Ryfia: Take me to Adele, L'Arc. I'll take over for her. Elliot: I cannot allow that, Diva. You are the embodiment of our nation. Ryfia: But Adele is my friend! If this city is taken, then the reinforcements will be for nothing. Cecille: Listen to her, Elliot. Where are Adele and the others? Elliot: ...In the Snowy Temple. Serge: That's to the west of here. L'Arc: All right. Let's get going! (The party leaves the General's office and convenes at the entrance to Opalus) Rastan: Before we arrive at Snowy Temple, you'll have to decide how we're going to deal with Prince Alf. Niko: Huh? Whaddya mean? Rastan: Prince Alf is our enemy now. We could take advantage of the situation to dispatch the Prince and take his Rogress. L'Arc: What...?! Rastan: The way things are going now, Adele will collapse... and with her, the defensive shield. We could take that opportunity to defeat Prince Alf, and then Ryfia can raise the shield again. That way, we can save Opalus and finish off the Prince. Ryfia: Rastan! That's horrible! L'Arc: ...That's just the kind of plan a man who betrayed his friend would think up! Serge: L'Arc, you're not really listening to what he's saying, are you? L'Arc: Now you're siding with Rastan?! Serge: Let me ask you, L'Arc. What is your goal? L'Arc: Huh...? Serge: I thought a legionnaire was capable of thinking for himself. Following Weiss' orders and going crazy over the Patriarch's requests... What are you really trying to achieve here? Ryfia: L'Arc is trying to save the world from crystallization! He is the Child of Eesa! Serge: ...Really? If so, then that's fine. But to stop the crystallization, he needs Rogress. So Rastan's suggestion makes sense! I don't want to hear anything about it being cowardly, especially from a mercenary! Niko: It would be an easy victory, Mr. L'Arc... Cecille: No, no, no! I'm not a mercenary! So I'll say what I want! It's a coward's plan! Ryfia: We do need Rogress, L'Arc. But it's not just Alf relying on us. Opalus is, too. Right? L'Arc: Yeah. You're right... Rastan: Good. If that's your decision, then I'll stand by it. Serge: I'm with you too. But I want you to listen carefully to what I have to say. Rastan and I are with you because of our trust in Rex. It's about time you made us trust in you, too. (Rastan and Serge leave) Niko: Talk about hypocrisy! He's the one who betrayed you! L'Arc: That was to protect his contract as a mercenary. Cecille: Well, maybe... But you're really creepy, Serge! L'Arc: Enough! (What am I doing? What do I really want to do...?) Ryfia: ... (The party leaves Opalus and heads west to Resolvent Iceberg, where the Snowy Temple is located. Upon arrival...) Niko: Ah...Ah...Ah... Ah-chooo! Cecille: Wow! I've never seen a ruin covered in snow and ice before! Ryfia: Me neither. It's beautiful. Why is this place called Snowy Temple, L'Arc? L'Arc: ...Huh? I haven't got a clue! I'm from the Empire, remember? Rastan: In Opalus, there is a legend about the Snowy Witch. It's said to be her home. Serge: Ah, the Snowy Witch... Cecille: You're not going to start talking about women again, are you? Serge: Of course not, Minimal Lady! How could I speak of other women in front of a beauty such as you? Cecille: Ahhh yuck! I hate creeps like you! L'Arc is one hundred times better! Serge: You hear that, L'Arc? You're a real ladies' man! L'Arc: ... Serge: Yoo-hoo, L'Arc-y boy! L'Arc: Huh? Serge: Cecille asked you to marry her. Cecille: ?! L'Arc: Wha?! B-b-but she's still a child! Niko: Mr. L'Arc... he was kidding! L'Arc: ...! Cecille: No way... Have you thought about me like that?! You should just say so if you do! Ryfia: Do you love Cecille, L'Arc? L'Arc: No! Ugh! Let's just go already! (The party progresses through the ruins and finds Leslie locked in combat with Imperial Soldiers) Ryfia: L'Arc! Leslie is in trouble! L'Arc: They must be the troops who got through the gap in the defense shield! Cecille: This looks like a job for heroes! Serge: I'm always up for rescuing beautiful women, even if it's Leslie! Niko: Um, I'm gonna pass... Rastan: Let's do this. (The party defeats the soldiers alongside Leslie) Leslie: What are you doing here? L'Arc: Relax! Reinforcements are on the way! Ryfia: We've come to help Adele and the others. Leslie: Are you serious? That's a surprise! L'Arc: What do you mean? Leslie: I thought you figured that after calling for help, Adele would fail and that would be the end of Alf. L'Arc: Well... we did think of that, yes. But I still think of Alf as my friend, and I don't want Opalus to fall because of our goals. Leslie: Ah, a splendid reply! Niko: What are you doing here, anyway? Aren't you supposed to be watching the prince? Leslie: Adele doesn't look like she can hold on much longer. So I plan to send a request to headquarters to evacuate the townsfolk. L'Arc: Got it. Ryfia will take over for Adele. Ryfia: I can take care of this. Ryfia: You're not just waiting for Adele to collapse, are you? L'Arc: You don't have to trust us. Head back to town and get the people outta there. Leslie: The defense shield is all yours. (Leslie leaves for Opalus) L'Arc: C'mon, let's go. (The party continues to trudge through the ruins. They eventually find Alf and his party. Adele is using her hymns to hold up the defense shield. Fatigue catches up with her and she collapses) Alf: Adele?! (A loud crash is heard, shaking the area. Cecille is frightened and huddles up to Ryfia) Cecille: Aaaaaghh! Serge: Ugh! She was hit just as the defense shield faltered. (Another tremor takes place) Niko: Whoaahh! (Niko runs into L'Arc and both are knocked to the ground) Niko: Arghh! (A rock hangs over L'Arc, which begins to break loose) Ryfia and Adele: L'Arc! (Both run to L'Arc's aid. Ryfia trips over Niko, but Adele manages to push L'Arc out of the way just as the rock comes crashing down) Alf: Adele! L'Arc! (L'Arc holds Adele in his arms) L'Arc: Are you okay? Adele! Why did you save me..? Adele: I'm an idiot... Helping... someone I can... I can never have... I can never ever... have you... L'Arc: Adele... Thank you... (Adele loses consciousness) Alf: L'Arc! Is Adele...? L'Arc: She's okay, just unconscious. Ryfia, the defense shield... Ryfia! Hurry! Ryfia: O-Okay! (Ryfia takes over for Adele and uses her hymns to bring the defense shield back up) Clyde: Adele is in bad shape, Sir Alf. We should return to town. Alf: You're right. But this is where the brunt of the Imperial attack is going to be. We can't just leave L'Arc and the others... L'Arc: Don't worry about us! Get Adele to safety! (Two Imperial Soldiers arrive) Imperial Soldier: Here! They're over here! Dynos: ...While you were squabbling, the Imperial scum arrived. L'Arc: We'll take care of this, Alf. Get out of here! Alf: Got it! Good luck! (Alf and his later flee with Adele) Imperial Soldier: Don't let them get away! (Serge throws one of his knives at the soldiers) Serge: Where do you think you're going?! Your fight's with us, man! Cecille: Weee! Time for some action! Feel the might of courageous Cecille's righteous fists of fury! L'Arc: Charge! (The party eliminates the soldiers) Serge: This place will be too dangerous when the enemy breaks through. (Rastan steps forward) Niko: W-Where are you going? Rastan: I'll guard the front. The rest of you reinforce this area. (Rastan leaves) L'Arc: Okay... Serge: L'Arc, this is a good chance for you to have a proper talk with Rastan. L'Arc: Serge, this is no time for... Serge: The Prince will have bought us some time clearing away Imperial soldiers as he escaped. L'Arc: ... Serge: You're not keeping it together. You won't make much of a mercenary if you lose your concentration in a fight. L'Arc: ...Yeah. (L'Arc leaves to go talk with Rastan) Rastan: Hmm? I can handle this. L'Arc: I... still can't forgive you. Rastan: Of course not. I killed your father. L'Arc: I want to forgive you. I can hardly remember my father; I don't even remember when he died... Now, I hear he was murdered, and the man who did it is right in front of me... Rastan: I don't really care if you hate me. L'Arc: Then why did you become my friend? Rastan: ...! L'Arc: If you weren't my friend, I could hate you a lot more easily! Rastan: You're right. L'Arc: But it's my fault. I asked you to come with us. It was selfish... I'm sorry. I just... (Two Imperial soldiers arrive and intercept the two heroes) Rastan: Here they come! (They take out the soldiers) L'Arc: I never thought I'd be killing my old allies. Rastan... About what I said... (One of the soldiers wakes up, but Rastan silences him for good) L'Arc: Rastan?! Rastan: You idiot! Never show mercy to your enemy! Any mercenary knows that a friend can become a foe in a flash. L'Arc: S-Sorry... Rastan: I want you to live a while. Live the life that I took from Rex. L'Arc: Rastan... (Two more soldiers appear) L'Arc: Gah! There's more of them! Rastan: Don't fall behind! L'Arc: Deal! (They eliminate the soldiers) L'Arc: Rastan... I may never be able to forgive you. Rastan: ... L'Arc: But I am willing to trust you. Rastan: L'Arc... L'Arc: I'm so sorry for all the terrible things I said to you. (Even more soldiers appear) Rastan: Looks like there's more! L'Arc: It's time we taught these guys a lesson once and for all! Rastan: Indeed! (They take out the soldiers) Rastan: There's still more coming! L'Arc: Yeah. I can hear their footsteps, but there's less of 'em now. Rastan: Maybe, but don't get careless! (Leslie appears) L'Arc: Leslie?! What are you doing here... Leslie: Good news! The reinforcements from Carbunculus have arrived! Rastan: They made it in time! Leslie: If the defense shield can hold for another three hours, we'll be able to launch a counterattack. L'Arc: Okay. I'll let Ryfia know. Leslie: I'm coming with you. If you betray us and lower the defense shield you'll be very sorry! L'Arc: We'd never do that! Leslie: Hee hee! You're cute when you're angry! L'Arc: Sh-Shut up...! (L'Arc, Rastan and Leslie rejoin the other members of L'Arc's party back at the site where the defense shield is being held up) Serge: Well, well, well! It's the gentle and lovely Leslie! Leslie: Oh, gee, do I detect sarcasm? Serge: But of course! You were my torturer, after all. Cecille: Torture? Huh? Niko: You're into that kinda stuff, huh? Leslie: Whoa! There's no need for that! Serge: It was all your fault, you know. Dynos was rather upset with me for choosing you over my contract with Gula. He beat me up and threw me in the Lightship's brig. Leslie: Don't forget I helped you escape! Serge: Yes, but only after torturing me mercilessly before realizing I had nothing to do with QED. Leslie: As I recall, you gave in to me rather quickly, Serge. L'Arc: Huh... Cecille: What do you want, anyway? Rastan: The reinforcements from Carbunculus are here. If you can hold the enemy off a little bit longer, we won't need the defensive shield. L'Arc: Sorry. Hold on just a little bit longer. I'm counting on you. (Some time later, a messenger from the Republic arrives) Cecille: Who's that?! Leslie: He's one of us! What is it? Messenger: A message from Lieutenant General Elliot. Please lower the defensive shield. Leslie: Okay. L'Arc: Ryfia! That's enough. (Ryfia stops singing her hymn, lowering the shield) L'Arc: Is your throat all right? Ryfia: ... L'Arc: Never mind. As long as you're okay. (Ryfia smiles) Cecille: You're sensitive about the strangest things, aren't you? Leslie: Hee hee! Aw, he's so kind. L'Arc: N-no I'm not! I just... Rastan: L'Arc, it's best to keep your mouth shut right about now. L'Arc: Nghh... Niko: Let's head back to town, Mr. L'Arc. They don't need that defense shield any longer. L'Arc: Yeah, let's go. Ryfia, get some rest. Don't worry about fighting anyone on the way back. Ryfia: Okay. Serge: I want some rest, tooooo. Niko: Me too, me too! L'Arc: You two are gonna work double time! (The party heads back through Resolvent Iceberg to get to Opalus. They stop to talk near the exit) Niko: Don't you have to pass on Angie's message, Mr. L'Arc? Leslie: ...Angie? L'Arc: Oh, yeah. Your sister gave us a message in Carbunculus. She wants you to come back. Leslie: Angie said that...? Cecille: Why don't you go back for her? She's really worried about you. Niko: Yeah. I mean, people fail missions all the time... Leslie: ...! L'Arc: When will you learn to shut up already, Niko? Leslie: ...So you knew. L'Arc: Sorry. But... Leslie: You don't have to apologize. He... Lord Douglas... died right in front of my eyes. I can never go back. What I did to Angie was unforgivable. L'Arc: Leslie... Leslie: Besides... the life of a vagabond suits me fine. Hee hee... (Leslie walks away) L'Arc: But... Serge: Just give up. L'Arc: Why?! Serge: It's not just about a failed mission... Niko: Really? Serge: I get the feeling that this is not a subject others should try to understand. You've given her the message. You've done your part. L'Arc: ...? (The party leaves Resolvent Iceberg and returns to Opalus. At the entrance to the city, an old man runs past the group) Old Man: Hurrah! We won! We won! We're alive! Niko: Huh? What was that about...? Cecille: Maybe the Imperial Army retreated?! Rastan: Perhaps. Leslie: Why don't we find out from Lieutenant General Elliot? L'Arc: Okay. Let's go. (The party heads for Elliot's office. At the entrance to the Military Academy, they spot Alf surrounded by a crowd of cheering townsfolk) Young Woman: Thank heavens! Sir Alf saved us all! Imperial Soldier: Long live Prince Alf! Rastan: Even the Imperial Soldiers are cheering the Prince. Why? Old Man: Eh? You didn't know? The Imperial Army retreated so quickly because Sir Alf won over their troops with his speech. Woman: Oh-ho, you there. You're from the Imperial Army too, huh? Sir Alf's moving speech won you over too, I'm sure. That's why you switched sides. * Niko: Huh? Uh... Old Man: Prince Weiss' attempt to destroy innocent people will lead to his country's self-destruction. If someone like Sir Alf became emperor, maybe relations with the Republic could be normalized again. Young Woman: The defense of Opalus was all planned and pulled off by Sir Alf and his companions. You should be thanking him! Young Man: There's a rumor that Lagoon the Cursed is in the Republic on a secret mission for Prince Weiss. He could learn a lesson or two from Sir Alf. Student: Long live Sir Alf! Down with Lagoon the Cursed! (Some time later, the crowd leaves) Niko: The Prince is becoming quite the hero. Cecille: That's crazy! It was Courageous Cecille and her friends who did the dirty work! L'Arc: Yeah, but it was Prince Alf who planned it all! Alf split the Imperial Army, too... Ryfia: You did your best too, L'Arc. But they still call you "Cursed." L'Arc: That's not a mistake. I was an Imperial legionnaire in Olquina when it was destroyed. Ryfia: I was there too! Why do people always take you the wrong way? It's just not fair... Leslie: ..Well, I still thank you. The only reason the defense worked was because of you. There's more than one group of saviors here. I won't forget that. (The party heads for Elliot's office. Right outside the room, Niko stops the party) Cecille: Huh? Something wrong? Niko: Excuse me... Can I, err, go to the bathroom? The cold seems to have gotten to me. L'Arc: Hurry up. Niko: I'll probably take a while, so I'll be waiting on Cecille the Brave. (Niko leaves the party) Leslie: Wow. That Lightship has your name on it, Cecille. Cecille: Yeah! All brave warriors have their names on their belongings! L'Arc: Huh?! Who said the Lightship was yours? (The party enters the room and meets with Elliot) Elliot: Leon! Captain Ferrati! Everyone! Thank you so much! The Imperial Army retreated thanks to you! Serge: Hmph. If you asked that noisy lot outside, they'd have you know it was all thanks to Prince Alf. Elliot: Indeed. I'm ashamed that I doubted him. He's truly a wonderful man. L'Arc: Yeah... Alf's a good guy. He knows what he's doing. Elliot: It would seem so. Ah, yes. I want to give you a reward for helping us. (Elliot gives them 86400 Rico) L'Arc: ... Elliot: Be sure to come see me if you visit Opalus again. Captain Ferrati too. Sorry, I meant Miss Ferrati. Anyway, good work! Leslie: I'm glad that I was able to be of some assistance. (The party leaves the building) L'Arc: Money...? Serge: You'll take that and be proud of it! That is, if you still call yourself a mercenary. If you're not a mercenary, then what are you...? Some kind of volunteer? L'Arc: No... You're right. This is what being a mercenary is all about. I know that, but... Rastan: So being a legionnaire is different from being a mercenary, huh? L'Arc: No... hmm. Guess I really was kind of naive, huh? Cecille: What makes you say that? You always try so hard! L'Arc: Only if the goal's dangled in front of my face. I only became a legionnaire because it provided me with a stable salary to pay for Mom's care. When you're in the army, all you have to do is follow orders. I had no idea what it meant when Ryfia called me the Child of Eesa, so I just did what she said... Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc: I didn't know what to say when Alf asked me whether choosing Imaginal's Law was right or not. I really had no idea what to think. Ryfia: ... L'Arc: You know, I think I was just jealous of Alf. I'm hated wherever I go, and he's always adored. That's because he understands what it is he should be doing. Serge: Understanding... Yeah. Putting aside Prince Alf for a moment... I'm glad you're able to think like that now. L'Arc: Yeah. I want to think properly about what I want to do, and what I should be doing. Leslie: Well, on that note, I will bid you adieu. Ryfia: Are you going back to Angie? Leslie: Of course not! I'm going to meet with Prince Alf. Serge: Why're you with them? Hmph! Must be something to do with QED. Leslie: Well, yes, actually. After all, QED and the Aion Unit belong to the same organization. There's a deep connection between the Aion Unit and North Noireism. I'm much more comfortable with fighting than religion. Anyway... Cecille: Aww. I thought Leslie was gonna come with us. Leslie: Sorry, Cecille. Let's meet again soon... But as enemies next time! (Leslie begins to leave, but she remembers something and stops) Leslie: Rastan, do you know anything about Lord Douglas' assassination? Rastan: Sorry, no. What's certain, though, is that the Aion Unit is somehow involved. Leslie: ...So it would seem. Rastan: Are you planning to take revenge for Lord Douglas' assassination? L'Arc: Is that why you won't go back to see Angie?! Leslie: ...Bye bye now. (Leslie leaves the party. The gang returns to the Lightship and reunites with Niko) Niko: Mr. L'Arc! I was so lonely! L'Arc: Man, you're annoying! Niko: Oh, that's mean, Mr. L'Arc! Cecille: All right. Time to take this baby out for another flight. Where's our next destination? Rastan: We are still hunting for Rogress, are we not? L'Arc: That's all we've got. While we're doing that, I need to think about what I really should be doing. Serge: Rogress it is, then. Which ones are left...? (Depending on which three Rogress remain to be claimed, Ryfia will list them) L'Arc: Got it. (The party sets out to find more Rogress) [-----------------------------] [Rogress Hunting 2-------(RH2)] [-----------------------------] [Transcriber's Note: Due to their non-linear nature and numerous outcomes, I have separated the events that occur in the Rogress dungeons from the main section of the script, and have put them in their own section. It should be noted that these events don't impact the main storyline in any major way. If you wish to read about what happens in the Rogress dungeons, please skip to the "Mandatory Rogress" section of this guide. The main section will now continue with the main storyline.] (The party rides the Lightship to one of three remaining Rogress dungeons and either claims a Rogress or loses it to Alf's party. The party is about to leave the dungeon when Ryfia walks ahead of them and stops to think) Ryfia: ............ (L'Arc joins her) L'Arc: Whoa! Wait up... What're you doing...? Ryfia: Let go! L'Arc: ...What? Ryfia: ...Sorry. Just leave me alone. (Ryfia storms off) Cecille: Looks like you're in the dog house. Do you want Cecille to comfort you? L'Arc: I'm not in the dog house! Wait, it's not even like that! Niko: Is Ryfia in a bad mood or something? Rastan: She does appear to be very impatient. L'Arc: Impatient? Maybe she's concerned about Alf collecting Rogress. Serge: ...I don't think that's what she's worried about. L'Arc: ...? (The party goes after Ryfia and spots her at the dungeon's entrance) L'Arc: What's up with Ryfia? She's really acting weird. Rastan: Indeed... (Ryfia walks a few steps further and turns toward the others) Ryfia: C'mon! I'm in a hurry... (A beast's roar is heard. A dragon-like monster appears behind Ryfia and swipes her with its tail. The other party members come to her aid) Serge: Oh no! Niko: It's no good! She won't wake up! Rastan: I'll distract it. Everyone get to the Lightship, now! L'Arc: Serge and I will stay, too. Cecille and Niko, get on the ship! Niko: Yes sir! Serge: The only order Niko's good at following is "retreat." L'Arc: All right. Let's do this! Rastan: I have you back. (Cecille and Niko take Ryfia with them and head back to the Lightship. L'Arc, Serge and Rastan battle and defeat the monster known as Allocer) L'Arc: Good. To the Lightship! Go, go, go! (The trio leaves the dungeon) [-------------------------------------------------] [Revelations, Goals, and Sister Rescue-------(RGS)] [-------------------------------------------------] (The party meets in the Lightship) Serge: How's Ryfia doing? Niko: She's sleeping in her cabin. Shouldn't she see a doctor? L'Arc: Hmm... The only doctor I know is in Diamant. Rastan: There's a doctor who lives in a small Noireist hut near Carbunculus. L'Arc: Let's go there. Ryfia sure is a pain to take care of... Cecille: So you say, but your expression says otherwise, you worry-wart! L'Arc: Well, sorry! Aren't I allowed to be concerned? Serge: Of course not! You're a big boy! L'Arc: Shut up! All of you! (The party travels to the Half Moon Inn near Carbunculus. They meet with the doctor inside the small hut) L'Arc: Excuse me. I heard there's a doctor here. Doctor: Yes, that would be me. Rastan: My friend hasn't woken since she was attacked by a monster. She's asleep in the Lightship outside. Would you please take a look at her? Doctor: Of course. I hope I can be of some assistance. Luze: Perhaps we could help, too? (Luze and Saura enter the building) Serge: You again... Doctor: Luze! Your help would be most welcome. Luze: Then take us to see your friend. Cecille: Sure thing... (Luze, the Doctor and Cecille all leave) L'Arc: You two again? Serge: Hmm. They're here to see you too, not just Alf, huh? L'Arc: Alf? Saura: Luze is the Hierarch of Noireism. It's only natural that she be interested in the choices of the Child of Eesa. L'Arc: Luze is the Hierarch of Noireism?! Niko: Noireism is the religion that both North and South Noireisms were based on. Which would mean you're more important than the South Noireism Light Lord. Or the North Noireism Patriarch?! Rastan: Noireism has pretty much died out. It was rumored that the hierarch had died. While formality would dictate that the hierarch be most powerful, in reality, the position holds no power. Saura: That would seem to be the reality of it. (The Doctor returns) Doctor: It will take some time to treat her. Please rest here today. (Everybody rests at the Inn for the night. The next morning, Ryfia is well again) Luze: She's going to be fine. She's just mentally exhausted. Don't let her overdo it. Ryfia: I'm sorry for all the fuss... Luze: No, no. You've nothing to be sorry for. Before coming here, L'Arc, we passed through Benetnasch. It looked like the Aion Unit was leading a massive army towards Carbunculus. L'Arc: The Aion Unit?! Luze: It would seem the Diva has her own doubts about the Aion Unit. Ryfia: ...! Serge: You move in mysterious ways as usual, Hierarch. Luze: The Child of Eesa's choice cannot be shaken by someone else's speculation. I am merely helping to spread the Child of Eesa's view. Ryfia: Come on, L'Arc! We have to get to Carbunculus! (Ryfia hurries out of the Inn) L'Arc: Ryfia?! Ugh, why is she always in such a hurry all the time? Cecille: If we leave her to it, she'll fly off by herself. Come on, we have to follow her. L'Arc: Let's go! (The party meets Ryfia in the Lightship) Ryfia: Come on! We have to hurry to Carbunculus... L'Arc: Before we do, I think you've got something to tell us. Ryfia: Oh? L'Arc: We were put in a lot of danger to help you. Ryfia: Oh... I'm sorry. L'Arc: Ryfia... You've been in a huge rush recently. Ryfia: No I haven't. L'Arc: Yes, you have. That's why you ran off by yourself and got attacked by a monster! Ryfia: I promise I won't do it again! I won't get in the way anymore. L'Arc: Well, good, 'cause you are! Ryfia: ...! Cecille: L'Arc, don't you think that was a little bit... Ryfia: ...I know! I know! Don't you think I see that?! You didn't choose me... I mean, Imaginal's Law! You were made to choose! You should be with Adele! That's how it should be! L'Arc: What... Why are you bringing this up? Do we really have to have this talk? Ryfia: I'm just an ignorant bumbler that gets in everyone's way! I led you around without knowing anything... I've finally realized that. But it's too late now. L'Arc: What? No! What I'm saying is that you're dragging us all along in your rush. Ryfia: What you mean to say is that I'm just getting in your way! I thought I could think for us for a change, be useful... But it hasn't worked out at all... I've had enough! Just leave. Go be with Adele! L'Arc: Ryfia! Ryfia: ...! Serge: Stop, L'Arc! Just take it easy, okay?! L'Arc: Head for Carbunculus, Cecille. I'm worried about what the Aion Unit is up to. Cecille: O-Okay... Will do. (The party rides the Lightship to Carbunculus and then enters the city) Serge: Well then, let's go and see if the Aion Unit is here. L'Arc: Ryfia... Ryfia: C-Coming... L'Arc: If you think you're just going to get in the way, you can get off here. Ryfia: ...! Niko: Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: You too, Niko. If you want to run away, then fine. I'm not going to force you. Niko: I-I'm coming with you! I couldn't imagine being with anybody else, Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: We'll see about that... Ryfia: ...I should go. I'm sorry for all the problems I caused. (Ryfia leaves the party) Cecille: Ryfia... What are you saying?! L'Arc is the Child of Eesa, isn't he? He's gathering Rogress to save the world from crystallization! Doesn't he have to deliver Imaginal's Law to Eesa? L'Arc! Why don't you stop her?! L'Arc: It's her choice... Rastan: Then you are no longer the Child of Eesa who has chosen Imaginal's Law. L'Arc: ...I never really gave it much thought anyway. It's just like Alf said. I just thought I'd go with the flow and things would turn out fine. But now it's different. I can't just unconditionally believe in North Noireism. Before I choose a Law, I have to know the truth about both of them. Serge: Look at this from her perspective. How's the two of you getting upset going to help anything? L'Arc: ...I'm not upset! Cecille: Yeah you are. Serge: Heh. So what does the grumpy little boy plan to do now? L'Arc: Meet with the Aion Unit. If they're an assassin force, then the Republic and North Noireism must be related somehow. I need to find out the truth. Rastan: If that's what you want, so be it. Do you think it's okay to leave Ryfia, though? L'Arc: ...Let's just go! Niko: W-wait! Come on, Mr. L'Arc...! Cecille: ...I'm worried about Ryfia. Serge: Me too. The less girls around, the lower my motivation... (The party heads for the Senate. On the way, they encounter Leslie's sister Angie in the custody of Aion Unit soldiers. She's being confronted by Paula and Luna, the two female bosses from Mandelro Coast) Rastan: That's the Aion Unit! L'Arc: What's going on?! Angie: Let me go! Why are you arresting me?! Paula: Lady Douglas, you are under arrest for alleged treason. Angie: Why? What have I done?! Luna: You plotted with the Empire to attack the Singing Ministry and assassinate the Diva. Angie: That's ridiculous! I don't know anything! Paula: Go make your excuses in the Senate Dungeon. Take her away! (The Aion Unit escorts Angie away) L'Arc: They were in the thieves' hideout... Serge: Yeah. It looks like they're from the Aion Unit too. Niko: Hey, weren't they after Adele's pendant? Serge: I guess they didn't want Adele to become the next Diva. Zamuel always was on the lookout for assassins, wasn't he? Cecille: So now what? They've taken Angie away. Niko: This is a total frame job! The Ministry was attacked by Olquinians. L'Arc: Yeah! All you'd have to do, Ryfia, is testify on her behalf, and... (He remembers Ryfia is gone) L'Arc: ...Oh. ... Cecille: So. Look for Ryfia? L'Arc: ...No. We'll head for Benetnasch. Rastan: To call upon Patriarch Hosea's aid? L'Arc: Yes. This may be our best chance to find out the truth. I want to know why Alf rejects Imaginal. Who's really being tricked here? I also want to find out what Hosea knows about the Aion Unit. Niko: Hosea has a lot of questions to answer! Serge: I doubt we'll get any straight answers out of him, but we may as well try. Rastan: Right. Let's go to Benetnasch then. (The party rides the Lightship to Benetnasch. Once they're in the city, they head for the Cathedral. Ryfia is at the Cathedral entrance conversing with the Aion Unit guard) Ryfia: I am a Diva! Nobody within the Republic has authority over me! Open the door! Aion Soldier: Hosea is meditating. I can't let anybody in. Ryfia: Since when has the Patriarch ranked higher than the Diva? Aion Soldier: Isn't the Diva's mission to guide the Child of Eesa? Until you've fulfilled that mission, you're not going to see Hosea. L'Arc: Ryfia... (Ryfia turns around and notices the party, then turns back to the soldier) Ryfia: ...I'll be back. (Ryfia runs off) Rastan: Guess the Patriarch isn't seeing visitors right now. I'll try and find out why the Aion Unit has the place sealed off. (Rastan leaves the party) Serge: I'll go snoop around a bit, too. Let's meet at the inn. (Serge leaves the party) Cecille: Me too, me too! (Cecille leaves the party) Niko: I'm... L'Arc: Just go kill some time, Niko. I'm going to talk with Ryfia. Niko: Yes sir! (L'Arc runs off and goes to search for Ryfia. He finds her in the Assaulted Town section of the city, standing in front of the destroyed Singing Ministry) L'Arc: You came all the way here by yourself? You aren't hurt, are you? Ryfia: What's it matter to you? L'Arc: I'm not allowed to be worried about you...? (Hearing this shocks Ryfia) L'Arc: I'm sorry about before. I know you're trying to understand things all alone, but... The talk about Adele just came to my head and... Ryfia: ...No. I'm sorry. I've caused so much trouble for everybody. L'Arc: Did you come here to see Hosea? Ryfia: Yes... But you saw how that turned out. I'm so ashamed of myself... I could just die. L'Arc: Ashamed? Of what? Ryfia: I'm a Diva. A Diva is supposed to be respected by everyone in the Republic. But nobody actually listens to what I say...! Now I finally understand. I thought being a Diva made me special, but I'm useless... I was pretending to be this grand Diva without realizing it... that's why I'm ashamed of myself. L'Arc: Ryfia... Ryfia: I didn't understand anything. I was taught that Imaginal is good and Real is evil, and that I should search for the Child of Eesa. I never doubted for a moment. But why did Alf choose Real's Law? And what's the Aion Unit really for? Hosea and Walter... I mean, Ignacy were hiding things from me. L'Arc: So you came here to the Cathedral. Ryfia: Yes. I didn't have any real evidence that Imaginal's Law is just. What an idiot I was! I have no proof at all! L'Arc: ...I do. Ryfia: What...? L'Arc: You said it yourself. You'd be sad if the world was crystallized. You said that you want to protect our beautiful world with me. Am I wrong to think that has nothing to do with being a Diva? Ryfia: No... You're right. L'Arc: Then let's protect this world together! I don't care about all this Diva and god stuff anyway. If the world's going to be crystallized, then we gotta stop it! If we need Rogress, then we'll find 'em. But I'm not doing it as the Child of Eesa. I'm doing it as a person! So I can survive! Ryfia: B-But I'll just get in the way! I don't know anything! My Diva status is just a fancy title. L'Arc: I didn't know anything, either. I wasn't even bothering to learn. But it's never too late. Let's learn together, Ryfia! We still have time! Ryfia: It's not too late for me, either? You want me to help you... just as myself? As Ryfia? L'Arc: We can support each other. You help us with things we can't do. And if you've got a problem, we can pitch in, okay? Ryfia: You've been supporting me this whole time... Now it's my turn! L'Arc: Good. Then join us! Ryfia: Thank you, L'Arc. (Ryfia joins L'Arc. The two meet with the rest of the party members at the town square) Cecille: You're lucky! You were going to get a taste of Cecille's iron fist if you didn't bring Ryfia back! L'Arc: Yeah, uh, how about you save that for someone else? Ryfia: I'm sorry for all the trouble I caused. I won't get in your way again... I promise. Serge: Man, I'm glad you're back, Ryfia. With only the Minimal Lady around, we were pretty much out of that feminine touch. Cecille: Did you say what I think you just said?! Niko: Man, if you think you get in the way, then I must be like a lead weight around here! So don't let it bother you, okay, Ryfia? L'Arc: Uh, you probably should let it bother you, Niko! Rastan: Ryfia, sometimes you can't find answers on your own. Why not try to have a little more faith in L'Arc and the others? Ryfia: Yes... You're right. I'll trust in them...and you, Mr. Rastan. Rastan: ...Well, I hope to be worthy of that trust. L'Arc: So did you find out anything about the Aion Unit? Rastan: It looks like Ignacy gave the order for the Cathedral to be blocked off. Supposedly it's to protect the Patriarch from rebels. Serge: Doesn't look like they'll let their guard down anytime soon. Cecille: If we don't hurry, they'll execute Angie as a traitor! Ryfia: What do you mean? Cecille: Oh, you didn't know? Well... (They explain the situation to Ryfia) Ryfia: Something's going on here. Hosea and Ignacy have got to be hiding something. Cecille: Hey, why don't we just bust in there? L'Arc: You want to take on the Aion Unit? Cecille: Well, we aren't getting anywhere like this, are we? Serge: It's a bit drastic, but I'm up for it. L'Arc: ...All right. We're fighting our way in! Niko: Eeee! That sounds scary! Rastan: ...Don't you even think about running, Niko! (The party goes to the Cathedral entrance, which is still being guarded) L'Arc: Hey! Look at that! (The guard turns around and Cecille knocks her out with a single uppercut punch) Cecille: Feel the wrath of Garcia Style! Niko: They've fainted... Ryfia: We'll be caught if we hang around here. Let's get going! L'Arc: Right! (The party heads inside the Cathedral. They confront another Aion Soldier guarding Hosea's room) Aion Soldier: Who goes there? Cecille: Intruders! (Cecille knocks out the soldier with another uppercut) L'Arc: Intruder?! I thought you were the mighty hero Cecille! Serge: Hmm, I don't know, I kind of like being called an intruder. It has a nice ring to it! Niko: If you say so... Ryfia: Should we call you that from now on? Rastan: Enough chit-chat! Get in there! (They enter the room, but Hosea is nowhere to be found) L'Arc: Looks like Hosea isn't here... Can you think of anywhere else he might be, Ryfia? Ryfia: No. I heard that Hosea stays in the Praying Hall unless he's performing ceremonies. (A hologram of Hosea materializes) Hosea: Who's there?! Ryfia: Intruders! Serge: Intruders! Cecille: Intruders! Niko: Intruders! Hosea: H-Huh...? L'Arc: Um... over here. Rastan: ... Hosea: ...Diva and the Child of Eesa? What is the meaning of this? Ryfia: Hosea! Drop the treason charges against Lord Douglas' wife Angie! Hosea: That's impossible, Diva! According to Ignacy's report... Ryfia: The Singing Ministry was attacked by Olquinians. I was there! Hosea: Someone as pure and innocent as you may not understand this... But those were Empire fools dressed up as Olquinians. Ryfia: Hosea, you want to save the world through Imaginal's Law, don't you? Hosea: O-Of course. That's... Ryfia: If you don't release Angie, then do you mind if we lend our powers to Real's Law instead? Hosea: W-What nonsense is this?! Ryfia: Answer me, Hosea! Hosea: ...All right. I'll order the Aion Unit to drop all charges at once. Just promise me you won't do anything rash! Real's Law will lead to the destruction of this land! Crystallization will destroy the planet and everything that lives on it! Ryfia: So what does Imaginal's Law do? I was taught that it would protect the land of the Divine Race. Is that true? Hosea: Of course. Imaginal's Law leads to the creation of a world for the Divine... humans to live in. There's no deception here. North Noireism was founded to work towards that new world. Serge: Patriarch, how does using the Aion Unit for assassinations come into all of this? Hosea: W-What are you talking about? Rastan: I can bear witness that the Aion Unit, as QED, conspired with the Senate to assassinate any opposition. Hosea: ... Rumors of that have reached my ears, yes. But this is the first time I've heard about QED. If that's true, then you should ask Ignacy about it. Niko: Playing dumb, huh? L'Arc: ...We're not gonna get anywhere with these questions. Ryfia: We have to worry about rescuing Angie first, L'Arc. L'Arc: Ryfia... Hosea: ...A-Anyway, Diva, I will order Lord Douglas' widow to be released. Ryfia: Please hurry! (Hosea's image disappears) L'Arc: ...He disappeared?! Rastan: A hologram... Just as I suspected! Serge: Hologram? What's that? Cecille: Oh, you don't know? Rastan: It's like an illusion. A person may be far away, but it can seem like he's right here with us. L'Arc: Is it some kind of magic? Cecille: You could probably do it with magic, but there's also a machine that can do it. Niko: Wow...! That's amazing! (The party leaves the room and discusses their next move in the Praying Hall) L'Arc: Shouldn't we go after Hosea? Ryfia: There's no way for us to know if Hosea is telling the truth or not. Or is there? Niko: Not really... Ryfia: Unless we can find something more convincing. Rastan: It sounds like you don't believe anything the Patriarch says. Ryfia: I don't know who to believe. Cecille: Oh, I know what you mean. That guy's bad news, no doubt about it. Serge: Being a hero is all about trust. You can't judge things from appearances alone. Cecille: You always judge things by their appearances, Serge! Especially women! Serge: Of course I do, my Minimal Lady! Girls are all about appearances! L'Arc: Well, it doesn't matter if Hosea speaks the truth or not. It doesn't change the fact that the Aion Unit still has Angie... Which means that there must be something for them to gain by framing her. Ryfia: If Angie is freed, we might understand what they have to gain. Serge: Hosea might break his promise... Why don't we go to the Senate Dungeon and see for ourselves? If Ryfia is with us, we should at least be able to see Angie. Rastan: Agreed. Niko: Oh, dear... I don't exactly have fond memories of the place. L'Arc: Right! Let's get to the Senate Dungeon! (The party leaves the Cathedral and then leaves Benetnasch. They fly to Carbunculus. Once they're in the city, they make their way to the Senate and talk with the soldiers guarding the entrance) Ryfia: I'd like to see Lord Douglas' widow, Angie. She's being held in the Senate Dungeon. Gate Guard: I'm terribly sorry, Diva, but I can't let you. Ryfia: ... Cecille: Huh?! Why? Gate Guard: She's to be executed this evening. L'Arc: What?! The Patriarch ordered her release! Rastan: If the order hasn't arrived yet, it may never come at all. Serge: They're executing her now? That's a little too fast, isn't it? (The guards turn their backs to look inside the Senate) Niko: W-What's that? Republic Soldier: Intruder! There's an intruder in the Dungeon! Seal off all the exits! (Ryfia approaches the soldier, who still has his back turned) Ryfia: Hah! (She is noticed by both guards) Gate Guard: Whaaa?! (L'Arc knocks them both out with a a single punch to each of them while they're distracted) L'Arc: It takes skill to do that properly. Cecille: Wow, Ryfia! You go, girl! L'Arc: Don't praise her, you idiot! Ryfia, what were you thinking? Ryfia: Sorry, but there's not much time left until the execution. There's no point waiting for the order to arrive. Niko: Does that mean we're going to save Angie now? Serge: Why not? It's all or nothing. Rastan: We don't have much of a choice. Cecille: Saving people requires sacrifice. Niko: That doesn't sound very heroic! L'Arc: Ryfia, are you sure? Ryfia: Yes. Very. L'Arc: Okay. Let's do this! (The party infiltrates the Senate and heads down into the Dungeon. They encounter Alf's party, minus Leslie, in the nearby hallway, as well as the corpse of an Aion Unit soldier) Ryfia: L'Arc! Over there! L'Arc: Alf! Alf: L'Arc?! L'Arc: What are you doing here? Alf: They're about to execute Leslie's sister for crimes she didn't commit. Leslie came here to rescue her without telling us. L'Arc: Looks like we have the same goal, then. (Another Aion Soldier appears, but Clyde slices her with his axe) Clyde: Sir Alf! (Another soldier appears) Aion Soldier: Here they are! Don't let the intruders further in! Clyde: Sir Alf, we're not going to make it in time! Alf: We'll deal with this, L'Arc. You go on ahead! L'Arc: Good luck! (L'Arc and his party escape downstairs) Adele: L'Arc...! (The party explores the Dungeon, and eventually they come to the execution room. Inside they find Leslie, Ignacy, and Angie, who's in the custody of Paula and Luna) Leslie: L'Arc?! Ignacy: Oh, my, if it isn't the Imaginal Diva herself! Shame you weren't the Real Diva. That'd be two birds with one stone. Don't move, now! No hurry, right? Leslie: Angie?! Serge: ...Rrgh! Ignacy: Now, now, everyone... Put your weapons down. If you don't, I can't guarantee Mrs. Douglas' life! Cecille: You coward! Ignacy: Oh, you honor me too much! (The heroes drop their weapons) Ignacy: Now, I'll have the Code Disc, thank you very much! Leslie: ...Here it is. Ignacy: Hand it over. Now! (Alf and his party arrive on the scene) Alf: Leslie! Are you okay?! Ignacy: Huh?! L'Arc: Now! (Serge throws one of his knives at Paula and Luna, allowing Angie to escape their grasp and join Ryfia) Paula: Y-You! L'Arc: Ryfia! Take care of Angie! Ryfia: Right! Ignacy: Curse you! Guess I'll just make do with the Disc alone... (Ignacy takes the Code Disc from Leslie) Ignacy: Paula! Luna! Take care of these people! (Ignacy runs away, with Dynos and Clyde in hot pursuit) Clyde: Wait! Paula: You've been a real pain... Luna: Now we're going to finish you once and for all! (Niko runs away) L'Arc: We got these guys, Alf! You go after Ignacy! Alf: ...Got it! Adele! After him! (Alf and Adele leave to chase Ignacy) Paula: Impressive! Luna: You'd best watch your back! (The party and Leslie battle and kill Paula and Luna) Angie: Why is everyone here? Ryfia: We're here to stop your execution! Leslie: Thank you... But we can't stay here any longer! We need to get back to town! L'Arc: You're right. ...Huh? Where's Niko? Cecille: Not here. Serge: Oh, he was running away earlier. Rastan: Yes, just before Prince Alf left. L'Arc: What?! That little coward! Leslie: I'll take over for him. Let's just get out of here! L'Arc: ...Thanks. (The group makes their way out of the dungeon, and then stops to talk along the way) L'Arc: How did you know about Angie's execution, Leslie? Leslie: ...A messenger came from Ignacy. Cecille: W-What? Why?! Leslie: He knew I was Lord Douglas' sister-in-law. He said if I didn't bring the Disc, Angie would die. Cecille: What? Wasn't the Disc broken?! Leslie: I had a fake one, just in case. Good thing it was broken in the fight before Ignacy found out it was fake! Otherwise he would have realized straight away. Serge: So... what is this Code Disc? Leslie: It's a memento from Lord Douglas. Angie: Really? Why do you have a memento of him, Leslie...? Leslie: Don't get the wrong impression! It's not what you think! This thing has the stench of blood... Ryfia: Blood? Is it something to do with Lord Douglas' assassination...? Rastan: I think we'd best have this conversation after we're out of town. Leslie: You're right! It's too dangerous to talk here. Let's go, L'Arc! L'Arc: Okay... (The group emerges from the dungeon and into the main Senate hallway) Ryfia: We're free! Cecille: Justice always prevails! Shelly: I have to wonder about that. (Senate Director Shelly appears with Niko) L'Arc: Niko! Niko: Mr. L'Arc... I'm sorry. Shelly: Justice? Who do you think you're kidding, Lagoon the Cursed? L'Arc: Who said anything about being on the side of justice? Shelly: If only the Diva had your level of reasoning... Ryfia: I did what I believed was right. I know that Lord Douglas' widow is innocent. (A messenger arrives) Messenger: Director! Patriarch Hosea has sent us papers ordering the release of Lord Douglas' widow! Rastan: Finally...! Shelly: ...I see. So that's why you so rudely barged in here! Serge: You should be thanking us! If we hadn't done something, you would've killed an innocent woman! Shelly: ...Fair enough. I apologize for the discourtesy, Lady Douglas. Guards, escort her home. Leslie, and Master Lagoon, please come to the council chambers. I have questions for you and your friends. (Shelly, Angie and the messenger leave) Niko: Phew... (L'Arc hurts Niko) Niko: Ouch?! L'Arc: I'm getting sick of this... (L'Arc storms off) Niko: Mr. L'Arc... Ryfia: Oh, cheer up, Niko. Just don't let L'Arc down again, okay? Please. Niko: Ryfia... (The party meets with Shelly and the Senators in the Conference Hall) Shelly: It's a shame that you're friendly with Lagoon the Cursed. I thought you were with the savior of Opalus, Prince Alf. Leslie: The one you call "Lagoon the Cursed" deserves that title as well. Shelly: ...Hmph. Regardless. Could you tell me what just happened? Angie's arrest, trial and execution orders all came so fast... By the time I heard about it, you were already breaking in. Leslie: I think it was all just a ploy to get this Code Disc. Shelly: I remember that disc... Leslie: Yes, I received it from Lord Douglas three years ago when he was assassinated. Shelly: Which means... They're after the information Lord Douglas had on the North Noireism conspiracy with the Senate. Ryfia: W-What does that mean? Shelly: The Senate is a puppet legislature! The Senate is promised power under the Reductio, but they govern under the Patriarch's guide. It just looks like they're running things on the surface. Leslie: Past directors have plotted with the Patriarch to use the QED to remove rivals in exchange for cash. The previous Director rose up in revolt against it. He said the Patriarch's influence in the Senate was wrong. He tried to disband the QED. Shelly: As a result, the last Director, my father, was killed by the QED, and I was elected his replacement. L'Arc: How was a new representative like you chosen to become the new Director? Shelly: I bought the votes. I wanted to get closer to the QED to find out the truth behind my father's death. But since my father's death, the Patriarch has skipped over me. He only uses other Senators. I decided to do background checks on the Senators with connections to the Patriarch. Serge: ...That's when Lord Douglas was assassinated by the QED. Ryfia: ... Leslie: The QED has been after me since the Code Disc came into my hands. That's why the Director ordered me to go undercover and expose the group and its members. Cecille: The QED is the Aion Unit, right? Shelly: Leslie, is that true?! Leslie: ...Yes. But there's no evidence! If I accuse Ignacy, he'll just remove me and that'll be that. L'Arc: Then what is that Code Disc? Leslie: If we can open this, we might learn the identities of the Senators in league with the Patriarch. Leslie: Perhaps we'll be able to find some incriminating evidence, too. Rastan: IF we can open this?!? You haven't checked the contents yet? Leslie: I don't know the password. I thought Angie might know something about it. Lord Douglas really loved her, after all. Shelly: All right. Let me know if she can access anything, Leslie. Leslie: Okay. I'll go and see Angie. Ryfia: Wait! Take me with you. If North Noireism is involved, then it's my business, too. Leslie: What's this got to do with a naive Diva? Ryfia: I may be naive, but I'm still a Diva! L'Arc: If this has something to do with Ignacy or Hosea, then we want to know too! We're coming with you! Leslie: ...Fine. (The party leaves the Senate and heads for Angie's home. Niko stops to talk on the stairs in front of the Senate entrance) Niko: I'll, uh, I'll wait in the Lightship. Ryfia: Why, Niko? Come with us! L'Arc: Let him do what he wants. (Niko starts to leave and then turns back to the group) Niko: Thanks, Ryfia. Sorry, Mr. L'Arc! (Niko leaves the party again) Cecille: Maybe he's embarrassed about running away yet again. Serge: Even Niko has to be ashamed at some point! Rastan: ...I'm a little worried about his behavior. I hope he doesn't get any funny ideas. Ryfia: Niko... L'Arc: ... (The party makes their way to the Artist's Zone and enters Angie's home in the Douglas Family residence. They inform her on the current situation) Angie: I see what you're saying, but I don't know anything about a password. Leslie: Anything can help. Are you sure you didn't hear anything? Some numbers, or words...? Angie: Hmm... come to think of it, my husband said something strange to me once. He told me that if he were to die before me, then I should remember these words. Leslie: What did he say? Angie: "My heart will always be with you" ...But those are just words... Leslie: ... He loved you until the end. Angie: ... (Angie's words unlock the Code Disc, and the party begins examining its contents) Serge: ...Whoa. There's some pretty amazing stuff written in here! Rastan: Divas and the QED come from the Republic's predecessor, the City-State Alliance... The Republic was created by North Noireism. According to the Reductio, funds gathered up by the Senate were sent to North Noireism. In return, the Senate was given technology and direction through the Singing Ministry's Hymns. Cecille: Hey, look! This says that the Patriarch ordered the QED to assassinate the Olquina Diva! Ryfia: ...Strange. I always suspected this, deep down. This proves that Hosea knows the Aion Unit is an assassin league! I'm so ashamed... All this time, I was so ignorant! L'Arc: What's going on here?! Wasn't North Noireism created to protect Imaginal's Law? Does this mean that Imaginal's Law isn't about justice...? Leslie: Justice?! Don't make me laugh! L'Arc: What? Leslie: Did you really think Imaginal's Law was just? Did you have any proof? L'Arc: B-But Real's Law will lead to the crystallization of our world...! Leslie: Is that bad? Does going against bad automatically make something good? It's all how you look at it, isn't it? What's good? What's bad? Ha! It's all hilarious to me now. L'Arc: You're... right. I didn't think about it at all. Not one bit... Leslie: Really? Honestly, I couldn't care less about Imaginal or Real. But I'm grateful that you saved my sister. Cecille: Wait, Leslie. Where are you going? Leslie: I'm taking this to the Director to find out more details. Without any hard evidence, it looks like I'll have to take this directly to the Patriarch. See you later... Angie: Sister! Wait! Leslie: I'm sorry for getting you involved in this, Angie, but there's still work I have to do. ...I won't be coming back soon. Please take care of yourself. (Leslie leaves with the Code Disc) Rastan: Well, where should we go next, L'Arc? (L'Arc remembers the words that Prince Weiss once spoke to him) Weiss: Just realize that you have chosen Imaginal's Law. If you've chosen a Law, you're my enemy. I'm not the sort to keep my enemies by my side. L'Arc: Sir Weiss knew everything...? Ryfia: L'Arc...? L'Arc: He didn't seek either Real or Imaginal... Ryfia: Which means he really didn't need either Law? L'Arc: I don't understand. I thought that I needed Imaginal to stop the crystallization caused by Real. But is there another way...? Is that why Sir Weiss attacked Olquina, and now the Republic...? Cecille: Hmm... Guess you'll be wanting to see Weiss, then? L'Arc: I don't think he'll want to see us... but he knows something! And I want to find out what that is! Ryfia: Me too. Why does he reject both Real and Imaginal? I suppose we're taking a more impartial view ourselves now, aren't we? Serge: We'll just have to go and see, right? Rastan: ...Indeed. Let's make for Diamant. Ryfia: We're leaving, Angie. Sorry I can't stay longer. Angie: I don't understand what's happening, but please take care of my sister. (The party leaves the Douglas household and comes face-to-face with Alf and his party once again) L'Arc: Alf... Alf: I just met with Leslie. She told me everything. She told me what North Noireism has done. L'Arc: ...They'll stop at nothing to reach their goals. Alf: When it comes to stopping crystallization, then neither will I. L'Arc: Doesn't Real's Law lead to the world becoming crystallized? Alf: Don't try to fool me here! Real's Law isn't about destruction! I formed a bond with Real so that our world can survive. The order brought about by Real will protect all of us. Adele: Come with us, L'Arc. Alf is trying to lead this world as Real's oracle. He's not trying to destroy everything by crystallization. Dynos: Imaginal's Law seeks the survival of the human race at the expense of other living things. Trees may rot, water may disappear, animals may become extinct. But if humans survive, it doesn't matter. Alf: I think that's wrong. If we can follow the teachings of Real's Law, then all living things can survive. L'Arc: ...So you're saying that we should all become Real's puppets? Alf: L'Arc? L'Arc: I don't like it. We don't need a guarantee of survival. Adele: So you're going to do what Imaginal tells you to, L'Arc?! L'Arc: Why do we have to choose between them? Is there no other choice? Alf: That's the Law of the gods. L'Arc: Is it really? Then why does Sir Weiss reject both? Alf: My brother is ambitious. He just wants to have the world in the palm of his hand. That's why he's starting wars and causing so much senseless death. L'Arc: I've made my decision, Alf. I'm not just making the easiest choice any longer. It's like Ryfia said... I want to save this beautiful world. Those words ring truer to me than any god's law. But we don't know anything! It's ridiculous to expect us to choose anything right now! If that's the rule of the gods, then I'll happily break it! Adele: You're... going to choose Ryfia again? L'Arc: It's not like that, Adele! She and I... Adele: You based your actions of Ryfia's words. That's the same thing! I want to save the world, too! I really do... Ryfia: L'Arc doesn't love me, Adele. L'Arc: ...! Ryfia: I was just fumbling alongside him. It's you, Adele... Adele: Don't mock me! Does that make you feel superior? That changes nothing. L'Arc chose Imaginal's Law, and therefore he chose you. You were granted the unconditional right to be by his side! You've taken for yourself the thing I've always wanted. Ryfia: L'Arc's not a thing! He's... (Adele slaps Ryfia) Ryfia: Ow... Adele: Oh sweet Imaginal Diva, you know nothing of pain! You killed my mother and stole L'Arc, and now you happily look down on me! I'll take your pretty world and spread Real's Law all over it! Then I'll come for you, and you'll have no place to go! (Adele storms off) Dynos: It looks like negotiations have broken down. I will follow the Real Diva. (Dynos follows Adele) Cecille: Dynos! Alf: L'Arc, people need rules! Crystallization is a result of the rules being broken! We have to change how we live. The judgment will be over if we follow Real's Law, and all life will be saved. The wheels are already turning. Clyde: ...We have to go, Sir Alf. Alf: I'm sorry, L'Arc, but we'll have to be enemies again. (Alf and Clyde leave. The party meets with Leslie at the entrance to the city) Leslie: Helloooo?! Could I have a word? Serge: If it isn't the former Archon Unit mistress of torture herself. Leslie: You're still holding a grudge against me, even now? Rastan: Didn't you go see the Director? Leslie: She gave me a request. L'Arc Bright Lagoon... The Director is convincing the Senate to propose a truce with the Empire. She would like you to act as a messenger on the Senate's behalf. Ryfia: Let's do it, L'Arc! If we can make it happen, then I think we should. L'Arc: ...Yeah. We were headed for Diamant anyway. Leslie: The Senate's already aware of what she's doing. They're trying to start a truce without the Patriarch meddling. Rastan: Won't that kind of thing lead to the Patriarch having them assassinated? Leslie: Well, they'll still never have a better chance than now... Uprisings are occurring in Empire controlled areas. The Imperial Army is spread thin trying to suppress them. Anti-Imperial movements have been gaining momentum since the victory at Opalus. Serge: It's true. The Empire might be open to a truce right now. [Transcriber's Note: Apparently, there are two different outcomes that could happen at this point, depending on whether the party bonded with Rufunga or not. If they succeeded in bonding with the Rogress, then they'll go directly to the Senate. If they failed, they'll embark on a third Rogress hunt. However, I was only able to find the third Rogress dungeon scenario, even if I or another Youtube user did bond with Rufunga, so only that scenario has been scripted.] L'Arc: What should we do until the Senate takes action? Leslie: Why not gather Rogress? L'Arc: But I'm not following Imaginal's Law anymore... Ryfia: That doesn't matter. Alf is trying to gather Rogress for Real's Law. Even if that doesn't mean destruction, they'd still be valuable cards to use against Alf. L'Arc: Hmm... That's a good idea. Leslie: Then let me come with you. Cecille: Don't you have to go with Prince Alf? Leslie: I was only with them to root out the QED while they were still after Adele. We've gone our separate ways now. Serge: That's cold. I thought they were your friends! Leslie: I thought you were the one who said something about not knowing who your allies were, Serge. Besides, the Director told me not to let you out of my sight! L'Arc: Whatever! Have it your way. Leslie: I think we'll get along nicely! (Leslie joins the party) [-----------------------------] [Rogress Hunting 3-------(RH3)] [-----------------------------] (The party returns to their Lightship) Cecille: Huh...? Where's Niko? Ryfia: L'Arc! Look at this... L'Arc: A letter from Niko? (They read Niko's letter) Niko: "Dear Mr. L'Arc, I've thought about it a lot, and I guess I'm not cut out to be a mercenary. If I stay with you, I'll only cause more problems. Truthfully, fighting is just too scary for me! So I've decided to leave. I'm sorry for everything." L'Arc: Niko... Ryfia: Let's look for him! Cecille: Yeah. L'Arc: ...No, don't. Leslie: Oh? Why not? L'Arc: I don't want to force him into anything he doesn't want to do. Rastan: Are you sure? L'Arc: ...I don't know. But I had a feeling it would come to this anyway. Ryfia: I was so happy when you asked me to come back, L'Arc. I'm sure he'd be the same way... L'Arc: ...I doubt that. Serge: Looks like what happened in the Senate Dungeon sure rang a bell with you, L'Arc... Let's leave him be. He's probably on his way back to Diamant anyway. Cecille: Maybe we should go and pick him up there. L'Arc: He'll be fine! What's important now is finding Rogress. Which ones are left? (Depending on which two Rogress remain to be claimed, Ryfia will list them) L'Arc: Okay. Let's stay on the move. [Transcriber's Note: Due to their non-linear nature and numerous outcomes, I have separated the events that occur in the Rogress dungeons from the main section of the script, and have put them in their own section. It should be noted that these events don't impact the main storyline in any major way. If you wish to read about what happens in the Rogress dungeons, please skip to the "Mandatory Rogress" section of this guide. The main section will now continue with the main storyline.] (The party rides the Lightship to either of the two remaining Rogress dungeons and either claims a Rogress or loses it to Alf's party. The party is about to leave the dungeon when they stop to talk) L'Arc/Ryfia: ............ Cecille: Hey, are you listening? Ryfia: Huh? L'Arc: W-What? Leslie: Guess not. Guess they're ignoring us, Cecille. How sad. Ryfia: S-Sorry. I didn't mean to... L'Arc: Sorry. I was just daydreaming. Cecille: Didn't I just tell you to quit spacing out? L'Arc: Yeah... ...Look, I'm sorry. (L'Arc and Ryfia walk away) Leslie: Did something happen with those two? Cecille: No. They've been like that since we met Prince Alf. Serge: It's the double-Diva fight for L'Arc. Leslie: Oh... Was it something Adele said? Serge: Well not so much Adele, but something Ryfia said... Uh-oh. Rastan: L'Arc's taking off. Cecille: Aren't you worried about them, Rastan? Rastan: There's nothing we can say to help. Leslie: I think we're all just too curious about them. Serge: Speak for yourself! (The party leaves the Rogress dungeon) [------------------------------] [A Chance for Peace-------(ACP)] [------------------------------] (The party meets in the Lightship) Leslie: The Senate should be ready to see us soon. Cecille: And then we're off to forge a truce with Weiss? Leslie: We have to go to Carbunculus first to get the papers. Rastan: We should go to the Senate now. Serge: Hey! L'Arc! Ryfia! Come on! L'Arc/Ryfia: ...! Leslie: I'm sorry for all the stress. We're going to Carbunculus now? L'Arc: Uh... yeah. Sure. (The party meets with Shelly and the rest of the Senate in Carbunculus) Shelly: I've been here waiting for you, Mr. Lagoon. L'Arc: Are you really going to form a truce with the Empire? Shelly: I hear that Empire-controlled regions are starting to rebel. Their numbers are increasing by the day. They're almost the size of an army now. They're calling themselves Alf's Army. L'Arc: What?! Rastan: So it's Alf pushing the rebellion? Not the Republic? Shelly: It'd be fair to say that the Empire is tearing itself apart right now. They're spreading out their forces to deal with multiple simultaneous rebellions. The conditions are perfect for Emperor Mahat and his blood-thirsty son to sign a truce. L'Arc: Can I ask you one question? Shelly: What is it? L'Arc: Why a truce? Shouldn't you take this opportunity to strike back and reclaim your territory? Shelly: If the war drags on too long, both the Empire and the Republic will fall, won't they? Once the Code Disc investigation is over, that'll be the end of the Patriarch's Senate influence. We can't take an aggressive stance towards the Empire now. L'Arc: ...All right. I promise I'll persuade Sir Weiss to accept the truce. Shelly: Leslie will represent me. Good luck. (The party receives the Offer of Truce and discusses their plan of action outside the Senate) Serge: Phew! Finally. Leslie: Weiss'll be a tough nut to crack. Hope we can convince him... Cecille: I'll pound his twisted spirit into shape with my Fists of Justice! Rastan: If only it were that simple. (The others walk away, leaving Ryfia with L'Arc) Ryfia: L'Arc? L'Arc: Ryfia... Let me just say... Ryfia: ... L'Arc: Don't pick sides for me, okay? I don't like to favor anyone. Ryfia: That's why you're nice to everyone! L'Arc: Mmm...? Ryfia: ...Never mind. I'm sorry. (Ryfia walks away) L'Arc: Huh...? (The party leaves Carbunculus and heads for Diamant in the hopes of convincing Weiss to sign the truce. Once they arrive in the city, they see two citizens talking in the Fountain Square) Young Man: Did you hear about Lord Mahat passing away? Young Woman: I did, I did... (The party approaches them) L'Arc: Whoa! Wait a minute! Young Man: W-What do you want...? L'Arc: Did the emperor really pass away?! Young Man: Y-Yes... It hasn't been formally announced, but that's the rumor. Young Woman: Maybe the prince had him killed for opposing war with the Republic! Young Man: Sssh! You'll be put to death for treason if the military hears that! (The young duo leaves) Ryfia: What if he really was assassinated? Leslie: If that theory proves true, we're in for a long, long war... Serge: Perhaps. Then again, perhaps his death is just what we need to end it! Rastan: Either way, without any official orders, there's only one thing for us to do right now. L'Arc: Right. Let's get to the castle and deliver this letter. We might be able to find out what's going on there. Cecille: Yeah. Boy, if that rumor about Weiss killing him is true, things are gonna get pretty hairy... (The party heads to the castle. They converse with the two soldiers at the entrance) Imperial Soldier 1: H-Hey! You're L'Arc Bright Lagoon! L'Arc: I'm escorting a messenger from the Head Senator in Turemilia. Imperial Soldier 1: W-What...?! Imperial Soldier 2: What should we do? Imperial Soldier 1: J-Just wait right there. Don't move! (Some time later, General Freya arrives on the scene) Freya: Ah, it's you... I wondered what all the ruckus was about. Leslie: My name is Leslie Ferrati. I am here on behalf of the Head Senator. May I please see the Emperor? L'Arc: We want to stop the war between the Republic and the Empire. Please! Imperial Soldier 1: What should we do, General? Freya: Apprehend them! Anyone who sides with the Republic is an enemy of the Empire! (The party is arrested and locked in a cell in the castle's basement) Cecille: Hey! What're you doing? We're here with a message of peace! Serge: Guess the Empire's in no rush to end this thing, huh? L'Arc: If the emperor was alive, they'd at least allow messengers inside. Ryfia: So you think the rumor's true? (A door opens nearby) ???: ...Oh, it is. (Freya appears) L'Arc: General Freya! Freya: Before long, Prince Weiss will take the throne, and any chance we had at a treaty will be gone. Leslie: We might even be put to death... Freya: Get out. (Freya lets the party out of their cell) Rastan: What are you doing? Freya: The Imperial Army is in a precarious situation. Sir Alf's faction is colluding with the Republic to disrupt things from the inside. We can't expand the front... Besides, Sir Weiss has no intention of talking with the Republic. Ryfia: So why did you let us go? Freya: Just remember that this is all I can do for you. If you get caught by any watchmen, I can't do anything to save you. But if you can somehow convince Sir Weiss, we may be able to use the Emperor's death to end this. L'Arc: So basically you want us to do whatever we can to get to Sir Weiss. Freya: Yes. If you go now, you should be able to find him in the throne hall. L'Arc: Okay. We owe you one! (Freya begins to leave, but remembers something and stops) Freya: Oh... L'Arc: What is it? Freya: ...Where's Niko? I don't see him anywhere. L'Arc: He decided to leave us. Freya: What?! Why would he do that? Serge: I dunno. I guess he just didn't want to cause us any more trouble. I'm sure he had his reasons. Ryfia: Haven't you... Freya: N-No... L'Arc: ...Anyway, we're short on time. Let's get this letter delivered! (L'Arc leaves) Leslie: He's the one most worried about Niko, you know. I wish he'd be more honest about it. Cecille: Ah, he's just at that difficult age in his life. Ryfia: L'Arc... (The party leaves the dungeon and sneaks out of the Guards' Room, while either avoiding or fighting the guards along the way. Upon entering the upstairs Hall of Mirrors, the castle's foyer, the heroes are surrounded by Imperial Soldiers) Imperial Soldier: They've escaped! Serge: Geez, we got caught already? Cecille: We're gonna fight 'em, right? L'Arc: Yeah, I don't think we have time for a diplomatic solution. Leslie: So much for being messengers of peace, eh? Ryfia: Sorry! (The party fights and defeats the soldiers) Rastan: Let's go before more of them show up. (After dealing with more soldiers, the party manages to get upstairs to the throne hall and meet with Weiss inside) Weiss: Well, well, puppet of Imaginal. Did you come here to die? L'Arc: I have a letter here from the Head Senator of the Republic that needs to be delivered to the emperor. Weiss (To Leslie): ...I don't believe I've met you. Leslie: My name is Leslie Ferrati and I am here on behalf of the Head Senator. Weiss: I suppose you're here to request a cease-fire. Another one of your divine revelations, no? I have no intention of siding with Real or Imaginal. Though if my father was still alive, things would be different. He really did choose the perfect time to die. Leslie: North Noireism has no relation to this request. The choice was made solely by the Senate. Weiss: Unfortunately, I know that the Republic Senate is under the rule of North Noireism. Even if you weren't lying, you'd still have an insider reporting back to the North Noireists right now. L'Arc: We will not allow any intervention by either the North Noireists or Imaginal. Weiss: How can you say that? Aren't you the Child of Eesa who chose Imaginal's Law? L'Arc: Alf's a Child of Eesa, too. Weiss: Alf...?! L'Arc: He has traveled the world, singing the praises of Real's Law. But I don't get it. Why are we forced to choose between two gods? Weiss: I don't care! I'm not interested! Save it for someone who is! I live by my own rules! L'Arc: Your rules don't matter. If Alf presents Real's Law to Eesa, the world will be crystallized. Weiss: ...So do you think you can save the world with Imaginal's Law, then? L'Arc: I... don't know. I don't know which side is the right one. Maybe both of us are wrong. Weiss: You don't know? Heh. Makes sense. You being a mindless puppet works better for them! Give me that letter! (Leslie gives him the Offer of Truce) Weiss: I'll get back to you regarding the cease-fire. Come to my office tomorrow. (The party leaves the throne hall) Ryfia: Nice job, L'Arc! L'Arc: You think so? Ryfia: Well, yeah! Prince Weiss accepted the letter, didn't he? Leslie: Compared to almost being put to death, I suppose we're making some progress. Serge: Don't hold your breath. The way things are going, we'll probably be in a jail cell tomorrow. Rastan: So what should we do until then? L'Arc: Let's go to Zamuel's School. They ought to have enough room for us. Cecille: Strange how Weiss didn't seem too broken up over his father's death, huh? Leslie: Yeah... you're right. (The party leaves the castle and head's for Zamuel's Martial Arts School. They enter the building and meet with L'Arc's mother, Elena) Elena: L'Arc! You're alive! L'Arc: Sorry to worry you, Mom. Serge: Elena, long time no see. Elena: Leon?! What are you doing here with everyone? Cecille: Oh... so Serge really is Leon. Boy, what a disappointment! Serge: Shut up! Elena: I hope you're taking care of L'Arc for me, Serge. You too, Rastan. Rastan: I will protect him with my life. Serge: By the way, Elena... we need to talk. Elena: What is it? Serge: ...Lord Mahat passed away. Elena: What?! So the rumors were true? Rastan: Prince Weiss said so. Elena: That... can't be. L'Arc: Mom! Ryfia: Are you okay?! Elena: I-I'm sorry. I'm just a little tired, that's all. Let me rest for a bit. Please, make yourselves at home. (Elena leaves) Leslie: Wow. She was really shaken. L'Arc: I wonder why she's so upset...? Serge: Let's leave her alone, L'Arc. L'Arc: But... Serge: We should get some rest ourselves. Cecille: Okay! Let's get some sleep and be ready for tomorrow! L'Arc: ............ (The party spends the night at the school. In the morning, they return to the castle and meet with Weiss in his office) Weiss: Ah, you're here. L'Arc: Sir, we'd like your response to the letter from yesterday. Weiss: Before that, have a look at this. L'Arc: ...What? It's a rock. Ryfia: I can feel a Code emanating from it... Weiss: This is the Meridian Bible. Cecille: T-This stone...? Weiss: I wouldn't touch it if I were you... unless you want to be cursed like me. L'Arc: ...! Weiss: The Meridia family is guarded by a pact with Eesa. Anyone with Meridian blood is protected from disease and will live until their hearts can no longer beat. Serge: ...So that's their secret! But if that's the case, then what's wrong with your arm? Weiss: 23 years ago, my mother was poisoned by the queen. To save her, I broke the seal guarding this forbidden stone and tried to form a pact with Eesa. It was then that I, and my father, saw it. The Meridian Bible was being manipulated by someone. L'Arc: Manipulated? But isn't this a... rock? Weiss: A Code is sealed within the stone. Originally this Code was simply the Meridia family precept. But 700 years ago, a pandemic struck and much of the Imperial Family fell ill. To ensure their survival, the hierarch of Noireism formed a pact to protect those of royal blood. That pact with Eesa was inscribed into this stone, which in turn became what is known as the Meridian Bible. If something was overwritten or changed, that is probably when it happened. L'Arc: What was changed? Weiss: It seems the part about our Empire being formed in order to kill the god Eesa has been erased. Ryfia: Kill... Eesa? Weiss: Originally, this world had no gods. Humans created the gods, and now the gods rule over them. That's why that passage was written. Serge: What are you talking about? People can't just create gods! Weiss: I don't know the truth, but I do know that the possibility exists. So I thought that people should be able to control their own destinies. That's where you come in, L'Arc. L'Arc: What do you want me to do? Weiss: Gather the Rogress, and when you reach the domain of the god Eesa, I want you to kill him. If you can promise me that, I will agree to a cease-fire with the Republic. L'Arc: ...! Weiss: So, what do you think? L'Arc: ...I can't do it. I don't even know what a god really is. Can a human even kill something like that? How can I make any promises? Weiss: I see. Very well, then. Leslie: What, that's it? Please, if you could reconsider... Weiss: I will honor your request for a cease-fire. L'Arc: Really?! Weiss: The signing of the treaty will be at Batrachites, which will become the new border between our nations. L'Arc: Sir Weiss! Thank you so much! Weiss: That is all. You may leave now. (The party leaves his office and the castle) Leslie: I was worried there for a bit, but everything worked out! Thanks, L'Arc! L'Arc: Don't thank me... I didn't really do anything. Why did Sir Weiss decide to accept our cease-fire proposal...? Serge: Maybe he just felt like it. We better tell the Director before he changes his mind. Cecille: Yeah, but you know Sir Weiss. He may've agreed to it... But he might be planning to attack the Republic anyway, or kill the Director. Rastan: We need his trust for this ceasefire. But we need to be cautious, as well. Ryfia: ...What is a god, anyway? L'Arc: Ryfia? Ryfia: Sorry... But if what Prince Weiss said is true, gods are man-made beings that rule over us. Cecille: But we don't even know if what was written in that Bible is true... L'Arc: It's an interesting story, but gods and the church have nothing to do with this cease-fire. Let's get this taken care of before we have another religious debate, okay? Leslie: L'Arc's right. No point bringing the gods into this. For now we need to get to the Director in Carbunculus and inform her of what's going on. Ryfia: Okay... (The party heads to Carbunculus and visits Shelly and the other Senators. The situation is explained to them by the party) Shelly: ...I see. Good work. A conference and treaty signing in Batrachites shouldn't be any problem. Leslie: Thank you. Shelly: We will begin preparations for the cease-fire. I just hope the North Noireists don't get in our way. Would you mind coming to Batrachites as well? Perhaps a Diva will serve as a deterrent. Ryfia: I'd be happy to help. Are you up for it, L'Arc? L'Arc: Yeah. I'm a little suspicious of what Sir Weiss is thinking, too... Shelly: Well, great. Are you ready to go now? L'Arc: Ready when you are. Shelly: Okay. (The cease-fire conference begins in the Batrachites Meeting Hall. In attendance are L'Arc, Leslie, Shelly, Weiss, Freya, and various other delegates and soldiers from both the Empire and the Republic) Shelly: Good work, Leslie. You may leave now. Leslie: Thank you. L'Arc: Excuse us. (They turn around to leave) Weiss: Wait, L'Arc! You can stay here. Senator: Excuse me, but I believe there is no room in this meeting for a petty mercenary. Weiss: I would advise you not to speak ill of my brother like that. L'Arc: ?! Shelly: W-what...? Freya: Prince Weiss! What are you saying?! Weiss: L'Arc, your mother Elena is my birth mother... the woman driven out of the royal palace by Queen Gruene. So you and I...are half brothers. L'Arc: That's... that's crazy! There's no way my mom is your... (A Republic Soldier enters) Republic Soldier: Director! We have an emergency! The Empire has infiltrated the city! I think they're heading this way! Shelly: What?! The deal was that neither army enter Carbunculus until after the conference is over! Freya: Our army is all the way back in Ebur! L'Arc: We don't have time to argue! Let's go see what's happening for ourselves! You all get ready to make your escape! (The party joins up outside the building to investigate, and watches in shock over what is happening. Several Republic soldiers and civilians lay still on the ground, defeated by Imperial soldiers with green veins on their blue armor and weapons. One soldier slashes his sword at somebody, and another soldier turns around to reveal a red symbol on the front of his helmet. The soldier approaches the disconcerted party) L'Arc: What are these guys...?! They're dressed like Imperial soldiers, but... Ryfia: They smell so terrible...! It's almost like dead bodies... Rastan: They're fallen Imperial soldiers! Cecille: Undead?! Could Dynos be behind all this...? Leslie: We'll find out later. Get ready! They're coming this way! (The party battles and defeats the Imperial Undead. More appear afterwards. Weiss and Shelly join everyone outside) Serge: Geh...! There's no end to them! Shelly: What the...?! Leslie: Director, they aren't Imperial soldiers. They are undead! We believe that Olquina may be involved. Weiss: Why would they attack us at the conference...? L'Arc: I don't know, but we'll make every effort to distract them. (to Shelly) You and Sir Weiss need to get out of here, right now! Shelly: Leslie, a cease-fire with the Empire is necessary for the Republic's survival. Do whatever it takes to eliminate whoever's behind this attack. Leslie: Got it! Weiss: L'Arc, I'll leave this up to you. Don't let such a pathetic opponent get the upper hand on you. L'Arc: ...Yes sir! (Weiss and Shelly flee. L'Arc points his sword at the undead soldiers) L'Arc: Hey, over here! Come and get it! Ryfia: Return to your eternal slumber! (The party takes out the enemies) Rastan: We can't stay here forever fighting these things. Cecille: If this is Dynos' doing, the attacks won't end until we stop him directly. L'Arc: You're right. Let's find him! (The party searches for Dynos, fighting more undead along the way. The area is littered with the dead bodies of soldiers and civilians alike. Dynos and Adele are found talking nearby the road leading into the city) Adele: ...That's enough, Dynos! Let's get out of here! Dynos: Yes, Lady Adele. Cecille: Dynos! Dynos: Cecille... Ah ha hah! I see my little sister is here as well. Cecille: What are you trying to accomplish, Dynos? Dynos: You wouldn't understand. You've had everything you ever wanted handed to you your entire life! Cecille: No! That's not true! You're the one that had everything! Adele: You just don't understand what it's like to be someone who can never have anything. L'Arc: So what?! That's your problem, Dynos! What good can come out of interrupting the talks like this? Adele: If we sit back and do nothing, nothing will ever change. Imaginal took everything from me! Zamuel, my mother, and even you! L'Arc: Adele... Adele: This world took away everything important to me! I'll do whatever it takes for revenge! (Adele storms off) Ryfia: Wait! Adele! You can't be serious... Dynos: You can't stop us! (Dynos summons more Imperial Undead and runs after Adele. The party quickly disposes of the enemies) Cecille: Where's Dynos?! Rastan: ...Looks like they escaped. Serge: Well, at least we won't have to fight any more of those corpses for now. Leslie: Well the good news is, Prince Weiss and the Director are safe... L'Arc: Yeah... (They hear a distant scream) Freya: Ahhhhhhhhh!!! Ryfia: That sounded like General Freya! Cecille: What happened...? L'Arc: Let's go check it out! (The party goes into the city's Garden Street to look for Freya, passing more corpses along the way. At the street's three-way intersection, they find Freya and Weiss, who are face-to-face with Alf and Clyde. Some townspeople are also present) Freya: Y-You... Clyde: Sorry, Freya, but you're going to have to shut up and watch. Alf: (to Weiss) ...Why have you killed our father? Why are you scheming to keep this fight going?! Weiss: I have nothing to say to the puppet of Real! Alf: ...Weiss! (L'Arc intervenes) L'Arc: Alf, stop! Alf: L'Arc?! Don't tell me you're a part of this massacre, too! L'Arc: What? Alf: Don't play dumb! You used the cease-fire talks as a chance to burn down the city, Weiss! Leslie: Give me a break! Your little friend made it seem like it was the Imperial Army! Clyde: Quit with the excuses! We saw what happened with our own eyes. The Republic soldiers came to save the Director, and Prince Weiss cut them all down! Young Woman: It's true! I saw him do it! (An Imperial Soldier arrives) Imperial Soldier: Prince Weiss! The Lightship is ready! Freya: Prince Weiss! Is this really true?! Weiss: It doesn't matter what we say now. Alf: Weiss... Did you really have a hand in our father's death? Weiss: If I did, what will you do? Alf: That would be high treason! Your noble title wouldn't let you escape your punishment! Weiss: Then try and kill me, Alfonse Zena Meridia... Child of Eesa. (Weiss, Freya, and the soldier all leave) Alf: Wait! (L'Arc blocks his path) L'Arc: Alf! Alf: Get out of my way, L'Arc! L'Arc: Sir Weiss didn't attack Batrachites... Boy: Shut up! Give me back my mom, you murderer! Young Man: My family was killed by Imperial soldiers! I'm a living witness! North Noireist: And I thought this war was finally going to be over... You cowards! (Alf and Clyde run away) L'Arc: Alf! Listen to me! Alf! Alf: L'Arc! I'm going to end my feud with you once and for all! (The townspeople leave. The party proceeds to discuss their next move) Serge: ...This is bad. The town thinks the Imperial Army betrayed them all now. Leslie: I'm worried about the Director. If something happens to her, we'll never be able to set things straight. Cecille: Why does Alf think this is all Weiss' fault anyway? Doesn't he know what Dynos did? Rastan: Either that's true, or he's just acting like he doesn't. Ryfia: Don't you think we should go after Alf? They have a Lightship... I guess he'll chase after Prince Weiss' Lightship and try to fight him. It's a simple misunderstanding! Two brothers shouldn't fight over something like that. L'Arc: Yeah, you're right. What do you want to do, Leslie? Are you gonna stay behind and look for the Director? Leslie: No, I'll let the other soldiers take care of that. I can't let anything happen to Prince Weiss, either. L'Arc: Got it. Let's go after Alf, then! (The party leaves Batrachites and rides off on the Lightship to find Alf and Weiss) [-----------------------------] [Flagship Percival-------(FSP)] [-----------------------------] (Above the ocean between the Empire and the Republic, the party comes across Weiss' Lightship) Cecille: Whoa! Look at that! L'Arc: The flagship Percival! Rastan: They must have used the Rogress. The ship won't last for very long. Serge: Looks like Alf isn't letting Weiss back in to the Empire. L'Arc: Let's get to the flagship! Leslie: We have to keep Prince Weiss alive. Otherwise, the Republic will never trust the Empire! Cecille: Okay! Let's goooooooo! (The party lands on top of the damaged flagship. An injured Imperial Soldier lays nearby) L'Arc: This is terrible... Imperial Soldier: Urrgh... Ryfia: Hold on! I'll heal your wounds... Imperial Soldier: Sir Alf... Please... lead the Empire... (The soldier dies) L'Arc: He must have fought against other Imperial soldiers... Leslie: Some kind of revolt must've happened here. Rastan: Prince Alf probably instigated it with his incursion. Cecille: Well, if this is any indication, the rest of the ship is probably in bad shape, too. Ryfia: But we can't go back now... We have to stop Alf! Serge: Right. There's no time to waste! L'Arc: Let's start looking for him! (The party heads down through the flagship's interior passages in search of Weiss and Alf. Along the way, they fight many Imperial Soldiers and encounter the corpses of dead soldiers. Rubble is strewn on the floor, and there are many large holes that lead to outside the ship. The party eventually finds an elevator that takes them up to the ship's Bridge. Once they enter, they see several defeated Imperial Soldiers, as well as their weapons, scattered around the room. Alf and Weiss are locked in a sword battle, Weiss revealing his black, demonic arms shown to the party at Dragon Prison. The rest of Alf's party watch the two brothers clash swords) L'Arc: Alf, stop! He didn't order the attack on Batrachites! It wasn't Weiss! Adele did it! Alf: You're lying, L'Arc! Why do you always blame Adele?! (Weiss seizes the opportunity to slice Alf and knock him back) Weiss: Die, Alfonse! (Weiss raises his sword, but Adele comes between the combatants and shields Alf) Adele: Alf! Look out! No one's ever hurting my friends again! Weiss: Out of the way! (Weiss pushes Adele away and knocks her to the floor) Adele: Ahhhhh! (Dynos tends to Adele) Alf: Weiss! (Alf gets up and stabs Weiss through the chest. Weiss writhes in pain) Weiss: Your deceit must be from your mother. Alf: My deceit...? Weiss: I wasn't expecting you to be so cunning. I wasn't careful enough... (Alf pulls his sword out of Weiss. He backs away in horror. Weiss falls to the floor) L'Arc: Sir Weiss?! (L'Arc catches Weiss and props him up) Adele: Heh heh heh... Ha ha ha ha! Alf: Adele...? Adele: Here's your reward for attacking Antrax. Now die, and take your dishonor with you! Clyde: Adele... Does that mean L'Arc was telling the truth?! Adele: Alf needs the throne to carry out his plans. Clyde: What?! Sir Alf would never usurp the throne in such a dishonorable fashion! Dynos: I didn't do it for Alf! Have you forgotten the pact that was made with Real? Adele: You'll praise me, won't you, Alf? I did such a good job, didn't I? Alf: Adele, you... ...If that's the path you've chosen, then I have no choice but to follow it. Dynos: Then we're done here. Let's go. Ryfia: Not if I can help it! Weiss: Imaginal Diva... Let them go. This ship will crash any minute now. If you fight here, you're all dead. Alf: I'm taking the throne, Weiss. (Alf and his party exit) Weiss: ...This world is nothing but a playground for the gods, L'Arc... The three gods meddle with all nations, forcing their rules upon them. I wanted to get rid of North Noireism and Olquinaism for that very reason. L'Arc: That's why you kept on invading?! Weiss: Unfortunately... I think my time is almost up. Even with Eesa's protection, my body is nearing its end. L'Arc: Just answer this one question. Are we really...? Weiss: ...Our mother was targeted by the queen, so she fled the castle. That is when she met the mercenary Rex... and you were born. L'Arc: ...! Weiss: She made me swear never to tell. But before my father committed suicide, he told me to protect her... When I took the throne, I wanted to reveal the truth so she'd come back to the castle... Leslie: The emperor killed himself? If that's true, then you and Prince Alf had no reason to fight... Weiss: I broke the seal protecting the Bible, despite my father's warnings to save my mother. As a result of it, he became afflicted with Eesa's curse, whether he wanted to or not. The dragonization caused by the curse began to take effect, so he decided to kill himself to end it. It wouldn't be wrong to say that I did have a hand in killing him. L'Arc: You're always like this... It's like you're trying to make people misunderstand you. Weiss: ...I died the moment I was afflicted with Eesa's curse. From that point on... My life's work was to eliminate the gods... L'Arc: Then I will follow in your footsteps. Weiss: But do you have... the power to kill a god? L'Arc: I don't know. I don't want to make any promises I can't keep. But I think people should be able to control their own destinies. Weiss: ...Then you should ask Carlisle for help. L'Arc: Carlisle? Weiss: She's... a strange one... But she'll certainly be able to help you. If I die... she will... contact you... L'Arc: Sir Weiss! Weiss: Don't let me down, my brother... (Weiss dies. A loud crashing noise is heard) Cecille: L'Arc! We're losing altitude! L'Arc: ...Let's get back to the Lightship. (The party rides the elevator out of the Bridge and heads back up through the corridors to the Lightship. They manage to get on and ride away just as the Percival explodes and crashes into the sea) L'Arc: ............ Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc: Don't look at me like that. I'm fine. Cecille: So now what? The Republic and the Empire are both in shambles. I doubt L'Arc's much interested in any more Child of Eesa activity, either. Serge: Weiss said something about asking a girl named Carlisle for help. Do you know her? L'Arc: Nope. Never heard of her. Cecille: Hmm... Then how are we supposed to ask for her help? We don't even know how she's supposed to help us. Leslie: If there's nowhere else to go, you mind if we visit Benetnasch? I need to check something out there. Serge: Like what? Leslie: Sir Alf said something about Prince Weiss killing the Republic soldiers that came to the aid of the Director. I just find it hard to believe he would really do that. Rastan: ...I see. Maybe he was protecting the Director from the Aion Unit. Leslie: That's a very good possibility. That would have been the perfect chance to get rid of the Head Senator for good. Ryfia: I want to go too. Prince Weiss said the gods were created by people. I can't help but wonder about that. Maybe Hosea will know something. Serge: Even if he did, he probably wouldn't come out and say so. Rastan: ............ Serge: Hm? Oh, yeah... I forgot you're of the Divine Race. You'd think a 1000- year-old would know the truth about the gods. Rastan: ...I really don't. Sorry. I do know that 1000 years ago, there was an anti-Noireism group that claimed Eesa was a false god. L'Arc: For now, let's head for Benetnasch. Cecille: Okay! [------------------------------------------------] [Waking Ryfia and Zeifellt Holy Tower-------(WRZ)] [------------------------------------------------] (The party arrives at Benetnasch and heads for the Cathedral to speak with Hosea. They are just about to enter Hosea's room) Rastan: Wait. I hear someone talking. (Inside the room, Ignacy is speaking with a hologram of Hosea) Hosea: Hmm. So Alf's become the New Emperor. Ignacy: The remaining Rogress have all fallen into his hands, it seems. He'll likely find the path to the Holy Land, as inscribed in the Meridian Bible. If that should happen, Hozone pollution will only get worse. Hosea: Pfft. He may be a Child of Eesa, but he's still just another pathetic Common Race child. Growing up in these Hozone-polluted lands, it's no wonder he was led astray by Real's Law. Ignacy: I, too, belong to that "pathetic" Common Race. Hosea: Heh... I thought you left that behind you. Without Hozone, the people of the Common Race will all perish. But with the Dragon Gem you got from the Divine Race, you're safe as can be. Ignacy: We had best turn our attention to eliminating the Child of Eesa. Hosea: It does seem that L'Arc has become suspicious of us. Our best option now is to take care of Alf and wait for a new Child of Eesa to appear. Ignacy: I will use Code control to brainwash L'Arc. If that fails, we can use some other means to dispatch him. What do you think? Hosea: Hmm... All right. (Back with the party...) Leslie: I knew those two were in on something! L'Arc: But what are they talking about? If we can't live without Hozone... Imaginal's Law isn't meant to save the human race after all... Ryfia: ...I knew it. Cecille: What do you mean, Ryfia? Do you know something? Ryfia: The "humans" that Imaginal speaks of... that may only refer to the Divine Race. Serge: ...So the Common Race will all be killed. Rastan: That's crazy! There's only a handful of the Divine Race left. Over 90% of the people on this planet are Common Race! Leslie: So the Divine Race would become dominant... I never pieced it together before... But if this is true, we've got trouble. Serge: Let's discuss this later. If we stay in Benetnasch any longer, who knows what'll happen? Let's get back to the Lightship! L'Arc: Yeah, before we get caught! (The party starts to leave, but what L'Arc sees stops him) L'Arc: ...! (Several Aion Unit/QED members block the exit. Ignacy emerges from Hosea's room and the party takes notice) Ignacy: What? You think I didn't notice you eavesdropping on us? Leslie: You won't take us without a fight. Now we know you were working together all along, weren't you? Once we tell the Director about this... Ignacy: Heh heh. The Director... Leslie: ...What's so funny? Ignacy: Our dear Director is not in office anymore. She's left her disc behind, too. Leslie: What the... Ignacy: When Batrachites was attacked by the Imperial Army... My subordinate killed her and took it back for us. Leslie: I'll never forgive you... (Leslie draws her guns and aims them at Hosea) Ignacy: I never asked for your forgiveness! I don't need the likes of you! I'm just here to teach that disobedient little Child of Eesa how to behave properly. (Ignacy fires a rectangular blast of red energy from his hand at L'Arc, who blocks it with his sword. The party prepares for battle as Ignacy's minions approach them. Ryfia speaks to Ignacy) Ryfia: It's only a Child of Eesa that can choose a Law. You can't manipulate him that way... Ignacy: As one of the Divine Race, you should agree to the manipulation of L'Arc's code. If we have the ability to control L'Arc, then our race can be saved! L'Arc: But what about us?! If you were part of the Common Race... Ignacy: Do not concern yourself with me. Now, be the obedient little puppet you deserve to be! (Ignacy throws his staff at L'Arc's feet. It emits a circular swirl of pulsing red energy that surrounds and paralyzes L'Arc) Ryfia: L'Arc! (Ryfia pushes L'Arc out of the code control trap, which causes the energy to be absorbed by Ryfia and disappear. She falls to the floor) L'Arc: Ryfia?! (L'Arc holds Ryfia in his arms) Ryfia: I'm... sorry... L'Arc... I didn't know about... any of... this... (She loses consciousness) Ignacy: Ahh Diva, just look what you've done. (Ignacy rushes forward to attack the pair with his sword, but Serge and Rastan manage to block the attack) Rastan: Heretic! I won't let you get away with this! Serge: L'Arc! Run back to the Lightship! L'Arc: Got it! (L'Arc carries Ryfia out of the building) Ignacy: After them! They're getting away! (The minions run after the duo, but gunshots from Leslie stop them in their tracks. The entire party manages to escape and meet back in the Lightship) Cecille: Ryfia isn't waking up... This must be that Code control brainwashing they were talking about. Serge: It's likely the same as Gula's curse. L'Arc: Hmm, so if we can analyze the Code like we did before, we should be able to get her to wake up. Serge: Unfortunately, the only person that can see which Code was overwritten is the Diva... Ryfia... L'Arc: Arghh! (There is a flash of light, and Simmah's Dragon Gem appears in front of L'Arc) L'Arc: Wha... What the?! Cecille: L'Arc! Look at Simmah's Dragon Gem! (The gem glows) L'Arc: It's glowing... (Another light flashes, and L'Arc hears Simmah speak) Simmah: If you want to save the Diva, go to the Ancient Tower Zeifellt. (Simmah and his Dragon Gem disappear) Leslie: L'Arc, are you okay? You look like you're off in your own little world. L'Arc: ...I heard Simmah's voice. He said we must go to Zeifellt if we want to save Ryfia. Rastan: That's in the desert south of Diamant... Is there something there that could help us? Leslie: Well, we don't have any other leads. I guess we just have to trust Simmah. Cecille: Saving those in need is the number one rule for a hero! If we're going to save Ryfia I don't think we can afford to ignore any clues that come our way. L'Arc: You're right. Let's get going. (The party flies to the southern desert. They search until they find Zeifellt Holy Tower and they enter once they do, carrying the unconscious Ryfia along with them) Leslie: This place is huge! It looks like it goes all the way up into space on the outside! Cecille: Oh come on, it's not that big... L'Arc: It's huge to us! How the heck could anyone build something like this? Serge: Well, they say a long time ago, these kinds of buildings were very common. Cecille: Yeah, they were everywhere. Leslie: If that's true, I bet you couldn't even see the sky at all back then. L'Arc: I bet you're right. Rastan: Well, you could still see it, but things were pretty cramped. Serge: If you're familiar with this, they must be from the Era of Loss, huh? I'm actually interested in this kind of stuff. L'Arc: You like ruins like this Serge? Serge: The Era of Loss is very interesting! You know, I AM an intellectual! Cecille: Oh, please! Ryfia's in trouble! Can you spare us your small talk for now? Serge: Sigh... If you insist. Let's see if we can find some clues. (The party goes through the tower to look for clues, fighting monsters along the way. As they begin to head down into the next room, Leslie stops to collect her thoughts) Leslie: ............ L'Arc: What's wrong Leslie? Leslie: ...Huh? Oh, nothing... (L'Arc approaches her) L'Arc: Thinking about the Director? Leslie: ! L'Arc: Sorry, I should've planned the cease-fire out a little better. Leslie: Don't be silly, L'Arc! It's not your fault! Shelly was killed by Ignacy... and Adele. L'Arc: Leslie... Leslie: Don't look at me like that! Unless... You want me to fall for you! L'Arc: Wha......?! Leslie: Teehee! Just joking! Let's do what we can to help Ryfia now. L'Arc: Oh... Yeah... You're right... (The party continues. In the next room they find the tower's regular elevators on the far wall, as well as an antigrav elevator in the center of the room) Cecille: Whew, we're in luck! The elevator still works! Rastan: It looks like somebody has repaired it quite recently. (The party takes the antigrav elevator to the Control Room at the very top of the tower. As everyone looks around, Rastan accesses a nearby device that resembles a computer terminal) Rastan: What's this...?! L'Arc: What is it Rastan? (The others join Rastan at the console) Cecille: Huh...? Is this a Rogress Code? Leslie: A Rogress Code? What's that kind of thing doing in a place like this? Serge: Let me see. (Serge searches the device for more info) Serge: What on... Cecille: What? Why the serious look? Serge: This isn't a Rogress Code. This is Code manipulation data for MAKING a Rogress. L'Arc: Making a Rogress...? What?! Rastan: There's data here on experiments to convert humans into Rogress. Cecille: Wait... What?! So the Rogress... used to be human? Even Simmah? Serge: Judging by this... yes. L'Arc: That's impossible... Rastan: Maybe, but we should probably hope it's true. Leslie: What do you mean? Rastan: A lot of the experiments done here are about analyzing and converting Codes. If that's true, then we might be able to save Ryfia. Leslie: A-ha! I get it! Serge: ...Wait. It says this machine is a Code Dive type. That means... Rastan: Right. This can analyze and convert Codes by encoding a person's consciousness... Then inserting that into a body to be analyzed. Leslie: So we encode our consciousness and then dive into Ryfia's? L'Arc: Can we even do that? Serge: We should be able to... But if we all enter Ryfia's consciousness... Rastan: We need someone to control the device. I'll stay here and handle that. L'Arc: ...Okay, thanks. Let's give it a try! (The party lays Ryfia down on the floor. Rastan prepares the device for their departure) Rastan: Be careful in there. Her Code's been overwritten, so her consciousness is extremely unstable. (L'Arc examines Ryfia's body) L'Arc: What the...?! The Dragon Gem is glowing! (After several flashes of light, L'Arc, Cecille, Serge and Leslie are transported into Ryfia's consciousness. They are inside an unknown building, and their surroundings are covered in a light-brown/orange tone) L'Arc: Where are we...? Serge: Well... we should be inside Ryfia's consciousness. Cecille: This looks like Lascarde though... L'Arc: Huh? Cecille: The Lascarde Skywalk... where the Divine Race currently sleeps. This has to be it. I know, I came down to the surface from here. Leslie: If Ryfia's in the Divine Race, I guess it makes sense she has memories of it, too. L'Arc: Well, we'll find out the answer when we wake her up. Let's see if we can find the overwritten Code. (The party searches the area for any clues. Along the way, they encounter groups of two individuals that are the same color as the building. They take no notice to the party's presence, and after exchanging words to each other, disappear. The party enters through a door on the southwest corner of the room and finds Ryfia inside) Cecille: Ryfia! (Cecille runs to her, but Ryfia fades in and out to allow Cecille to pass right through her) Cecille: Huh? What? Why...? Leslie: Because you're both encoded now! Of course you can't touch each other! Serge: It's like she doesn't even notice us... (Ryfia stands in front of L'Arc) Ryfia: Who are you? L'Arc: Huh? Cecille: She can see L'Arc...? Why? Ryfia: You look like... someone I really care about... I can't remember his name... but he's a mercenary... L'Arc: Wha...?! (L'Arc tries to touch Ryfia, but a flash of light engulfs everybody and removes them from the room. When the light clears, a transparent man and transparent woman are seen talking in the room) Ciel: The Lullaby put her to sleep. Hardel: You'll never be able to see her again... ever. Ciel: Are you... sure you want to do this? If you become a Rogress and remove all the Hozone pollution, you'll never be human again. You may lose all your memories forever... Hardel: But for us to live on Fulheim again, one of us must become Rogress. If that's the case, then I, "Simmah the Liberator" of the Noire Twelve should be the one to do it. Ciel: Oh Hardel... Hardel: Ciel, please take care of Ryfia... She's our only daughter... (Another light flashes, and our heroes, minus Ryfia, are returned to the room) L'Arc: What... was that all about...? Cecille: It looked like Ryfia's mom and dad... Leslie: Is that part of Ryfia's memory too? Something seems out of place... Serge: Yeah, weren't they talking about Simmah? You think they're discussing the Rogress Simmah? L'Arc: ...What's going on here? (The party heads through another door to the north. They see more transparent people inside, and locate Ryfia on the far end of the room) L'Arc: Ryfia! (Ryfia approaches L'Arc) Ryfia: Are you my... regret? L'Arc: Regret? What are you talking about? I'm here because you won't wake up... Ryfia: Right. I chose not to wake up. I thought this world consisted only of the Divine Race. I believed that saving the Divine Race was the same as saving everybody. But then I learned of the Common Race... They didn't fit my definition, and I didn't realize that. L'Arc: But you don't think the Common Race should all just die, do you? Ryfia: It's all my fault... I led the Common Race mercenary to his destruction... I cannot go back to him now. (Ryfia begins to walk away, but L'Arc goes after her) L'Arc: No! Wait! (Another light flashes and removes everyone. In their place stand Hardel and a familiar woman, both transparent) ???: Hardel... "Simmah the Liberator"... Have you said your good-byes to your family? Hardel: Yes. ???: We've already completed the Code conversion on three of them. Of those three, "Mashgar the Solitary" and "Kudoan the Witful" have gone out of control... ...Due to a failure in the Code conversion process. Do you still want to do this? Hardel: Yes. So we can take back our land. If I become a Rogress, I can convert the Hozone into Ray. Not to mention... this is what Eesa has chosen for me. ???: Eesa... Hardel: I know. But since the Twelve found the Singing Stone we have vowed to always worship the god Eesa. If we didn't... we'd simply be siding with Meridia in calling Eesa a false god. ???: Okay. I won't say anything else. May your deeds bring you great honor! (Another flash of light ends the scene and returns everyone, again minus Ryfia, to the room) Cecille: ...Is that really one of Ryfia's memories? Something's not right... L'Arc: It seems to me like it's Simmah's memory more than Ryfia's. Leslie: Didn't the girl talking to Simmah look like Saura? Serge: Yeah, I thought so too. She looks too much like her to be a coincidence... (The party enters the doorway up ahead. Another light transports them to an area resembling Retea Forest, except the forest is now brown) Leslie: What's this...? A memory of the forest? L'Arc: This place... It's where Ryfia and I first met... (A nearby Ryfia notices L'Arc) Ryfia: ...L'Arc...? L'Arc: Ryfia! You remember me! Ryfia: Why are you here...? After Ignacy hit me with his Code conversion... I was able to forget about you and sleep here forever... (L'Arc walks to her) L'Arc: What are you talking about?! It was you! You got me into this! You're the one who said I was a Child of Eesa! Ryfia: ...I'm sorry, but I don't know how to take responsibility for all of this. The Law I believed in, Imaginal's Law, exists to eliminate the Common Race. Real's Law will crystallize the world. You can't choose either of them! L'Arc: I won't then. Besides, who said I had to choose one or the other anyway? Ryfia: But I... I can't let the Divine Race die out... Every time I got close to you I saw a vision of Simmah... my father... If that was true, my father turned himself into a Rogress to make a world for the Divine Race. L'Arc: I don't want either race to die. Ryfia: How...? L'Arc: If Imaginal's Law and Real's Law destroy the Common Race... Then I'll make a new Law! I don't need Eesa! I'll put the future of the people back in the hands of the people. Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc: We can make this world beautiful. We can do that! Shouldn't that be our responsibility? Ryfia: Can we really make a world without the help of the gods? L'Arc: I don't know... But instead of gods, there's us. This began with us. (L'Arc holds his hand out to Ryfia) L'Arc: Besides... I like a girl who tries to finish what she starts. If you really care for me... you'll help me do what we need to. We'll be together. Ryfia: ! L'Arc... I... You... (Ryfia smiles and takes L'Arc's hand. Simmah's Dragon Gem appears and causes one final flash of light to appear. Simmah's voice his heard) Simmah: We didn't want to save only the Divine Race. We wanted to save all the people! That was true then, and it's still true now. Ryfia... my most beloved daughter... Please... do whatever it takes... ...to save Fulheim from its destiny of destruction and peril... (The entire party is reunited back at the Zeifellt Control Room) Cecille: Ryfia! We were so worried about you! Serge: Welcome back Ryfia! Leslie: I was worried about you too, believe it or not! Ryfia: Thank you... L'Arc: You really know how to make me worry, don't you...? Rastan: I was watching you from the console here. I'm glad you all made it out alive. L'Arc: You were... watching us...? Leslie: Oh, don't be embarrassed! We saw the whole thing firsthand, you know! Hmm, what was it...? The "if you like me" part or something? L'Arc: Shut up! Serge: I still can't believe that the Rogress were originally humans... I know there's research being done about changing humans into Feldragons, but still... Cecille: And Ryfia's father being Simmah... Is it just me or does something not add up there? ...It must have been around the time of the Dragon Descent 1000 years ago. Leslie: But weren't you sleeping from the Lullaby just like Cecille? Ryfia: Possibly. My memory's pretty vague, so I'm not sure. Rastan: So what now? We can't go to see Hosea anymore, and even if we could... L'Arc: ...Is there a way to render Hozone ineffective without removing it from the world? Leslie: Nah. If that was possible, you'd think the Divine Race would've tried to accomplish it. Ryfia: No. It's because the Divine Race have no reason to keep Hozone around in the first place. If Eesa accepts Imaginal's Law, the Hozone will be all gone anyway. Serge: So basically, nobody's even looked into this possibility yet! L'Arc: Rastan... This is a Code conversion lab, right? Is there anything about converting the Hozone's Code? Rastan: I'll take a look. (Rastan searches the console for the information) Rastan: ...Hmm! There is, actually! And it looks like it was recently accessed by someone, too! You'd need a Divine Race ID to get to this stuff... Cecille: Who would look that up...? Dynos, maybe? Rastan: No, it's someone named Carlisle. L'Arc: Carlisle? That's the name of the woman Sir Weiss was talking about. Ryfia: He mentioned her when L'Arc told him about putting people's fates back in their own hands. I don't think this is just a coincidence. L'Arc: So we just need to find out where this Carlisle girl is then. Rastan: I'll make a copy of this report. Let's go back to the Lightship now. L'Arc: Okay... (The party leaves the Control Room and descends the tower. At the bottom, Niko is seen searching the area) Niko: ...Hmm, not here either... (The party arrives) L'Arc: Niko?! Niko: Mr. L'Arc... everyone... Ryfia: Niko! We were so worried about you! Niko: ............ L'Arc: ............ Cecille: Why didn't you come back, Niko? Niko: Well, I'm... in the Resistance now, so I can't. L'Arc: Resistance? Niko: The Empire has changed ever since Sir Alf came into power. They've written up a thing called the Imperial Charter, and anyone who disobeys it is punished. Leslie: What kind of things are in it? Niko: Oh, lots! Ray usage limits, water and food rationing, even how much trash we can throw out! We can't leave our houses or towns without permission, either. The worst is a restriction on the number of people in the city. If you go past that number... Cecille: W-What happens to them? Niko: I don't know! The Empire takes them off somewhere and they're never seen again... L'Arc: That's crazy! Niko: Plus, Sir Alf put up a big reward for you... dead or alive. I wouldn't go near the Empire if I were you! Anyway, I better get going... Serge: Going where? Niko: There's a contact office for the Resistance in Ferris. I have to head back there... L'Arc: ...Wait. We'll take you there in our Lightship. Niko: Really? But... L'Arc: Just let us take you, will ya?! Niko: ...O-Okay... I'll wait for you guys at the Lightship then... (Niko leaves for the Lightship) Cecille: Ferris is in the desert southwest of Diamant, right? L'Arc: Yeah, it is. Let's go. (The party leaves the tower and returns to their Lightship) [-----------------------------------------------] [The Resistance and Ruins of Hilbert-------(RRH)] [-----------------------------------------------] (The party, with Niko in tow, flies to the desert town of Ferris. As they enter, an Imperial Soldier is confronting a kneeling villager) Imperial Soldier: How dare you steal our precious water! Young Man: But my mother is sick! She can't get better with just the rationed water! Please, she needs water...! Imperial Soldier: Forget it! You saw the new laws put forth by Lord Alf! All people, young and old, male or female, sick or well, must obey the Imperial Law! Those who refuse to comply will be punished! Young Man: N-No... Why... Imperial Soldier: You are a criminal! And on top of that, you tried to resist! You will be put to death immediately! (The party arrives on the scene) L'Arc: Leave him alone! Imperial Soldier: You want to try and stop me? You'll be headed for the gallows too then! L'Arc: Then maybe we should put YOU to death before that happens? Imperial Soldier: Agh... Y-You'll pay for this! (The soldier runs away. The party comes to the Young Man's aid) Ryfia: Are you okay? (The man gets up) Young Man: Thank you. But you can't go around doing stuff like that... Cecille: Don't worry! Helping people in need is what heroes do! Young Man: Niko! Do these people want to be part of the Resistance too? Niko: Huh? Oh, no... not really... Young Man: Oh yeah... Niko, Kazaf was looking for you earlier. He said he heard from Dr. Carlisle and he wanted to ask you something. See you all later! Thanks again! (He leaves into the inn) L'Arc: Dr. Carlisle? Niko: Ah, yeah... She's a friend of ours... Leslie: Oh! Now that's good news! Niko baby, will you let us come along with you? Niko: Uh... but... Ryfia: We've been looking for a woman by the name of Carlisle. L'Arc: Please, take us with you. Niko: ...O-Okay. Let's stay at the inn for now. (The party enters the Dashing Walker Inn) Innkeeper: Hey, Niko! You're all right, huh? Who're these folks? Niko: Umm... Ryfia: We want to join the Resistance. Innkeeper: This isn't some game you know. Niko: Oh, these guys are totally strong! This is L'Arc Bright Lagoon... You know, the guy that Lord Alf is after. Kazaf: So you're L'Arc Bright Lagoon, eh... I heard they called you the Deathbringer over in the Republic. L'Arc: You're the Resistance leader? Kazaf: Nope. I'm the sub-leader. Oh yeah, by the way Mr. Lagoon... L'Arc: You can call me L'Arc. Kazaf: Okay then, L'Arc. If you really want to join us, then I'd like to ask a favor of you. L'Arc: We've got one to ask you first. We're looking for a girl here named Carlisle. Kazaf: Carlisle? Oh yeah! She sent me a letter asking me to find you! Funny, huh? You know 'er or something? L'Arc: I guess you could say that... Kazaf: Okay. I'll let her know to come back here as soon as possible. So, can you do something for me? I need to rescue our leader! Ryfia: What do you mean? Kazaf: Our leader's being held prisoner by the Imperial Army. They're telling us to surrender if we want them to spare her life. Leslie: Your leader's been captured? Seems like a pretty pathetic resistance if you ask me! Kazaf: Our hideout was hit with a surprise attack by the Imperial Army when we were out on an operation. They tried to fight back, but the Imperial Army's commander was too strong. We had no chance. Serge: So how are we supposed to rescue her? Kazaf: Our hideout is in the Hilbert ruins right by here. Serge: I think that's where Banchu was... Kazaf: Our leader should be there, but there's too much resistance for us to have half a chance. We'll launch an attack to divert their attention. Meanwhile, you guys... Ryfia: Go in and save the leader, right? Cecille: L'Arc! This is another chance for me to hone my hero skills! We're gonna help them aren't we? L'Arc: Okay, we'll do it. But don't forget what we agreed about Carlisle, okay? Kazaf: You got it! Niko, you get a hold of Dr. Carlisle and get her back here. Niko: Y-yes sir! L'Arc: ............ Niko: ............ (The party, with Niko staying behind, leaves the inn. They begin to leave Ferris when the Young Man from before emerges from the inn) Young Man: L'Arc... Wait up! L'Arc: Hey, aren't you that kid from last time? Young Man: Thanks for saving me earlier! I heard what was going on from Kazaf, so I decided to go look for this... (He hands them a Resistance Pin) L'Arc: I can't accept this. I'm not officially a member of the Resistance yet, you know. Young Man: I know. But the Imperial Army is no joke! You must be ready for a fight! If you have this on you, you'll be able to buy things from the Resistance supporters in the shops within Imperial territory. Please rescue our leader! L'Arc: If you're that insistent, I'll take it! Thanks, we appreciate the help. (The party leaves Ferris and flies southeast towards the Ruins of Hilbert, located in the center of the desert. They enter the ruins and hide behind a pile of rocks to avoid being seen by the soldiers guarding the entrance) Rastan: I figured there would be Imperial Soldiers guarding the entrance... Cecille: Well, there's only one thing to do in a situation like this... Bust through 'em! Leslie: Ah Cecille, aggressive as usual! Of course, I'm kinda like that too! Serge: You guys should use your brains instead of your muscles sometime! Ryfia: Wait... Something's wrong here. (Three more soldiers appear and join the two already on guard) Imperial Soldier: We'll wipe up the remaining Resistance. You take care of the rest further in. (The two soldiers that were on guard head deeper into the ruins while the three soldiers that just appeared leave the ruins) L'Arc: Guess Kazaf did his part of the bargain. Ryfia: Great! Now's our chance! Let's go! (The party searches the ruins for the Resistance leader, fighting Imperial Soldiers and monsters along the way. About halfway in, they run into Clyde, as well as the three soldiers accompanying him) Clyde: Hey you're... L'Arc Bright Lagoon! L'Arc: General Clyde?! Clyde: Well, huh. Gone and joined the Resistance. Leslie: I'm surprised, Clyde. I figured you'd be against the way Alf is running things. Clyde: Heh... The old me, maybe. L'Arc: You're the one that told me I needed to stop him! Is that because you knew this would happen? Clyde: Well, I'm just a pawn of Sir Alf's at this point. I will follow Sir Alf until the end... no matter what comes to me! Rastan: The emperor is failing his nation! Isn't it your job to warn him he's going astray? Clyde: You'd never understand... That's why I'm taking care of you right here, right now! (Clyde draws his axe. The party battles and defeats Clyde and his soldiers. After the battle, only Clyde and the party remain) Clyde: ...Why? Why must you follow Imaginal's Law? That Law... abandons us... the Common Race... Ryfia: L'Arc's not here as a Child of Eesa. We're here to find L'Arc's own Law, separate from Imaginal and Real. Clyde: What...? L'Arc: I don't want to see the Common Race OR the Divine Race destroyed! If the gods only show us two paths, then I want to find my own path as a human being. Clyde: Yes... So you've reached that conclusion too, then...? Serge: You... you mean Alf's done it, too? Clyde: Sir Alf is aiming for the third path... and for the gods to follow him. This is the result... L'Arc: He wants to make the gods follow him?! Clyde: ...L'Arc... I have chosen to go down together with Sir Alf. But you... may be able to stop him. L'Arc: What do you mean? Clyde: He's going to attack Carbunculus next. He plans to raze it to the ground. Leslie: Carbunculus?! Cecille: He's continuing with the war?! Clyde: He wants to use Adele to activate Ellgode Volcano and incinerate Carbunculus with it. (Clyde begins to walk away) L'Arc: General! Clyde: Please... stop him... (Clyde leaves) Rastan: Are you sure we should have let him go like that? L'Arc: I don't think he wants to fight us anymore. Besides, we don't have time to waste on him. We have to find the Resistance leader! Ryfia: And if we don't hurry, Carbunculus is in big trouble! (The party continues into the ruins. They eventually come to a military outpost under the control of the Empire. They converse with the two soldiers standing guard there) Imperial Soldier 1: L'Arc Bright Lagoon?! Why are you here...? L'Arc: Release the Resistance's leader! Imperial Soldier 1: Grr...! You've been swayed by the Resistance too?! You heathen! L'Arc: It's okay. We weren't expecting you to give her up without a fight! (Another soldier appears from behind the party) Imperial Soldier 2: Wait! General Clyde has ordered that we retreat! We must retreat immediately! Imperial Soldier 1: But we have the Resistance leader and the traitor L'Arc right here! Imperial Soldier 2: The retreat has already begun! If you don't come now, you'll be abandoned in the desert. (The soldier leaves) Imperial Soldier 1: Argh! I won't forget this! (The two soldiers leave duty, allowing the party to pass. In the back of the outpost, they find Shelly Greenhill, who's wearing a brown robe) Leslie: Shelly?! Shelly: ...Who are you? Leslie: You don't remember me? Shelly: I'm sorry... I'm afraid I have lost all memory of the past. Did I used to know you? Did you come here looking for this... Shelly person? Ryfia: No. We're here to rescue the leader of the Resistance. Shelly: Oh! Well, that's me! Cecille: Huh?! YOU'RE running the Resistance?! Shelly: Yeah, things just kind of turned out this way. First of all, I need to meet up with everyone in Ferris. Can you take me back there? L'Arc: Um... okay. Leslie: ...Shelly... (The party escorts Shelly out of the ruins. At the exit, Kazaf appears to greet them) Kazaf: Leader! You're all right! Shelly: Sorry to cause so much trouble... Leslie: She says she has amnesia, Kazaf. Kazaf: I know... A traveling merchant found her unconscious on the side of the road near Batrachites. Cecille: Batrachites? Are you serious?! Ryfia: Yes way! Kazaf: Why? Do you guys know Lilia? Leslie: Unless she has a twin, her real name is Shelly Greenhill. She was the Director of the Republic Senate. Kazaf: N-No way...! Shelly: I'm the Director??? You have to be kidding me!!! Ryfia: I wonder if her memories were wiped after losing her Code... L'Arc: Ryfia, if you use your Hymn... Ryfia: I might be able to bring her memory back. Leslie: Lilia... err, Shelly. You are a very important person to the Republic. Not only that, you're my best friend! So please... I'm positive we can get your memory back! Shelly: ...O...kay... Leslie: She's all yours, Ryfia. Ryfia: I'll give it a shot. (Ryfia sings her hymn to Shelly, and the two of them are enveloped in a swirling stream of blue energy, followed by a flash of light) Leslie: Shelly! Do you remember now?! Shelly: ...Quit yelling! My ears are just fine, thank you! (Leslie stands in front of Shelly) Leslie: Shelly! I was so worried about you! I heard you were killed by the Aion Unit... Shelly: Whoa, whoa! Knock it off, Leslie! You can't do that here! (Leslie backs away) Kazaf: I can't believe our leader was the head of the Republic Senate... Shelly: ...Yeah, well I can't believe I was leading a rebel group within an enemy nation! Kazaf: What are we going to do without our leader...? Shelly: Hey, I never said I was gonna abandon you. Kazaf: R-Really?! Shelly: But, I have to return to my country. In my absence, I am appointing L'Arc Bright Lagoon as my replacement. L'Arc: You WHAT?! Shelly: Just like how I employed you for cease-fire talks, remember? Now I'm hiring you as a mercenary to help the Resistance. L'Arc: I don't think the Resistance would really want me to join, though. Kazaf: ...Hmm, we'll have to talk this over with the other members in Ferris. You come along too, Lilia... er, Shelly. Shelly: Okay. (Shelly and leave) Ryfia: We should go to Ferris too. (The party leaves the Ruins of Hilbert and flies back to Ferris. They meet with the Resistance at the town's Dashing Walker Inn) Kazaf: Ah! Our new leader! We've been expecting you. L'Arc: A-Are you really serious about this? Shelly: L'Arc. You'll be acting as a bridge between me and the Resistance. I want Alf to revoke the Imperial Charter and return the land that belongs to the Republic. That's why I need the Resistance's help. L'Arc: ...So basically we need to wake Alf up as to what's really going on. Kazaf: You got it! That's why we're here. L'Arc: All right. I'm in. I guess we all have the same goal here. Ryfia: Speaking of which, where's Niko? Kazaf: He's still trying his best to track down Dr. Carlisle. Leslie: What are you planning to do now, Shelly? Shelly: I'm going back home, of course. To Carbunculus. The attack on Batrachites was not the work of the Empire. That was all Alf's goons. ...I must tell the world the truth. Serge: You better hurry. Alf has a crazy plan in the works as we speak. Shelly: What kind of plan? (The party tells Shelly Alf's plan) Shelly: What?! He wants to make Ellgode Volcano erupt?! But if that happens the streets will be flooded with lava! Cecille: As a defender of justice, I can't just sit by and let that happen! Shelly: L'Arc, would you escort me to Carbunculus? L'Arc: Sure, of course. Ryfia: By the way Director... I just realized that you've stopped calling L'Arc "Lagoon the Cursed". Shelly: S-So what?! Ryfia: Oh, nothing... I'm just glad that's all cleared up between you two! Shelly: ...Okay, now I feel uncomfortable! I'll be in the Lightship... Ryfia: Did I say something rude...? Leslie: Teehee! Shelly is just shy. Don't worry about it! (Shelly and the party return to the Lightship and set off towards Carbunculus) [--------------------------------------------------] [Saving Carbunculus and Ellgode Volcano-------(CEV)] [--------------------------------------------------] (The group arrives at Carbunculus and heads for the Senate. They converse with the guards at the entrance) Republic Soldier: D-D-D-D-D-Director?! Y-You're alive!!! Shelly: You bet I am! Got a problem with that? Republic Soldier: A-A-Ah, n-no ma'am! (The soldiers let Shelly pass) Shelly: L'Arc, you all come along with me. (They all enter the Senate. The party separates with Shelly and proceeds to enter the Conference Hall to meet with the Senators) Avlice: Lagoon the Cursed?! Guards! Apprehend that insolent fool! He's the one who called in the Imperial soldiers to torch the town and interrupt the peace talks! L'Arc: Guess I'm already a wanted man around here... (Just as the guard approaches to arrest the party, Shelly enters the room wearing her original outfit) Shelly: At ease, Avlice! Avlice: D-Director...?! I had no idea you were still alive... Shelly: L'Arc wasn't responsible for the attack on Batrachites. I can attest to that. I was a member of the peace talks. L'Arc: Director... Shelly: Representative Avlice. I am hereby utilizing my power as Head Senator to dismiss you from the Senate. Avlice: I've done nothing wrong! Why would you...? Shelly: For your part in illegal donations from the church of North Noireism and my father's death! I do believe that is grounds enough for your dismissal! Avlice: What...? You have no proof of any of that... Shelly: This Code Disc contains all the proof I need. Avlice: T-That's crazy! I thought Ignacy took care of that! Leslie: Well! Looks like suspecting you in the attempted murder of the Director was the right choice! Shelly: Sorry Avlice. I carefully examined the contents of this disc and made a copy of it for safekeeping. Avlice: Grr... Shelly: Guards! Take Avlice to the Carbunculus Prison! (The guard takes Avlice into custody and leaves the room. Shelly addresses the other Senators) Shelly: I was nearly killed by the Aion Unit on orders from the Patriarch of the church of North Noireism. This was an act of severe betrayal by the church, so I propose this to the assembly... Abolish the Reductio which has been a burden on us since the very formation of the Senate... And indict the church of North Noireism and their Patriarch Hosea on charges of treason! (Some time later, the Senators leave the Conference Hall, and only the party and Shelly are left) Leslie: You did it Shelly! Shelly: Well, not yet. The actual deliberation will take some time still. I wouldn't put it past the Patriarch to try and interrupt the process. We also need to take care of the Aion Unit... Or should I say QED. Plus, we need to tell everyone that the incident in Batrachites was all Alf's doing. Ryfia: Carbunculus needs to be protected so that you can do your job. Shelly: Diva... I am trying to prosecute the church of North Noireism. Doesn't that make you... uncomfortable? Ryfia: If a judgment is made against North Noireism, then all I can do is accept it. Claiming that I didn't know any better is no excuse. Rastan: ...L'Arc. Let's get to Ellgode Volcano. Lord Alf is probably on his way there. L'Arc: Okay. Shelly: I'll dispatch the Republic Army there later as well. Please, do whatever you can to protect Carbunculus. L'Arc: You got it! (The party leaves Carbunculus and heads for Ellgode Volcano to stop Alf. They land the Lightship on the volcano's summit and enter through there) Serge: I never thought Alf would go so far as to blow up a volcano to destroy Carbunculus... What the heck is he thinking? Cecille: Yeah, I thought Weiss was crazy, but Alf is something else! Ryfia: I suppose this is what he has to do if he wants the gods to follow him. Leslie: Even if he is trying to create a new future separate from Real's Law... Does that mean in his future that Carbunculus can't be saved? What are we going to do? Rastan: Let's look around. There should be some kind of device or something he's using for this. L'Arc: Okay, but let's be careful. (The party searches the volcano. They eventually find Alf, Adele, Dynos and two Imperial Soldiers at the Hall of Bonding, the place where the Rogress Urgula used to be. Adele is singing her hymn to make the volcano erupt) L'Arc: Adele, stop! (Adele stops singing) Alf: Ah, L'Arc... I figured you would find us! L'Arc: Alf... What are you thinking?! Why are you trying to activate this volcano and destroy Carbunculus? Alf: To reduce the number of people on this earth. To make it much easier to manage them. Ryfia: That's... your reason?!? Adele: That's a very important reason! Alf: The existence of people is a poison far more deadly than Hozone! But depending on how you use it, poison itself can become medicine. That's what I'm setting out to do. You should understand that, L'Arc. L'Arc: No! If you can't control people without decreasing their numbers, then just don't control them! Alf: You too, eh... So you think I'm wrong about all this? L'Arc: Well, I don't know what's wrong or what's right, but I do know that I don't like what you're doing! Alf: Oh... you don't like it? Yet I've decided to go down this path. For Adele's sake, too. Adele! Run! Adele: Alf... Alf: Hurry! (Adele runs away) Ryfia: Adele! Wait! Adele: I have nothing to say to you! Dynos: Get away from her! Cecille: Ryfia, look out! Dynos: !!! Cecille: Dynos! Why're you still following Alf? Dynos: I'm not following anyone! I just want to help Lady Adele... The Real Diva. Alf: I'm going to go through with this plan no matter what! It's the only way for the Common Race to survive. (The volcano begins to rumble. Alf, Dynos, and their two soldiers all flee the scene) L'Arc: Alf! Rastan: L'Arc, we have to stop this volcano from erupting before anything else! Leslie: This isn't good... The volcano is growing more active by the second. (Ryfia steps forward) L'Arc: Ryfia! Ryfia: I'll try to calm it with a Hymn. (Ryfia begins singing her hymn, but the volcano's shaking breaks her concentration) L'Arc: Ryfia! (L'Arc comes to Ryfia's aid. Several flaming rocks start raining down from the ceiling) Leslie: Look out! (Just as a rock falls on L'Arc and Ryfia, a light flashes that saves them from harm. Simmah's Dragon Gem appears, flashes a few times, and then vanishes) L'Arc: Was that Simmah...? Ryfia: (Father... thank you...) (Ryfia resumes singing, and the volcano eventually calms down and deactivates) Ryfia: L'Arc... thank you. L'Arc: What are you talking about? You're the one who stopped the volcano. I should be thanking you! Leslie: He's right. Thank you for saving Carbunculus Ryfia. Rastan: It looks like disaster has been avoided... for now. Serge: Let's get out of here! The heat is killing me. My pretty face is getting ruined from all this sweat! Cecille: ............ Serge: Hey there Minimal Lady. You're awfully quiet. Worried about your brother? Cecille: ...Ah... yeah... But it's okay. I'm fine. (The party leaves the Hall of Bonding and encounters Clyde shortly after) L'Arc: General Clyde... Clyde: ...I heard you prevented the volcano from erupting. Thank you. Serge: What are we going to do with Alf, Clyde? Ryfia: He's like a completely different person now. Clyde: It's Adele. That massacre at Batrachites at the hands of Adele and Dynos changed him. Leslie: Didn't Adele do that so Alf could become emperor? Clyde: Hmm, who knows? I thought Adele only had eyes for you First Sergeant Lagoon! So did Sir Alf! I don't know why Adele did what she did in Batrachites. But afterwards, Sir Alf accepted that he'd be made Emperor. That's when he decided he would accept Adele's sins as his own. Rastan: Is it the guilt of those sins that is making him crazy like this? Clyde: Possibly. Before, Sir Alf would have been hesitant in his actions. But there is no hesitation now. He doesn't care how much blood must be shed to achieve his goals. L'Arc: What's Alf trying to do anyway? If you want me to stop him, you should at least tell me. Clyde: The crystallization in Real's Law is not actually complete destruction. Did you know that? Cecille: Sure it is! If everybody's crystallized, they'll all be turned to stone, won't they? Zamuel's body was crystallized and he... Clyde: Crystallization is one of the rituals of the rebirth of a planet. The Hozone crystallizes all things and beneath those crystals, new life is formed. Basically, crystallization is a way of cleaning out all the dirt that has accumulated on a planet. Ryfia: But don't the people die in the process? Clyde: Yes. But to this planet, the people are poison. That's why they are removed by the crystallization. But Sir Alf entered into a pact with Real to prevent that from happening. He wanted to prove that people are not a poison before they were all crystallized by the Hozone. That's what the Imperial Charter is all about. Via the charter, he forced people to never hurt the planet. Leslie: So that's why he wants to cut the population and force them to live without Ray! Serge: That's crazy! Nobody would ever go along with anything like that! Clyde: It doesn't have to be forever. If the people can endure that for just one year, Real has promised to stop the Hozone pollution. Sir Alf was planning to stop Real... ...So he could show Eesa his ideal society, one where the Common Race can live. L'Arc: So that's what he meant by "ruling the gods"... Clyde: But, the destruction we have caused these lands was far worse than anyone had imagined. No matter how much or how well Sir Alf tries to control people, it will never satisfy Real. At this rate, none of us will be saved. But if you can actually find a Law that is different from Sir Alf's... You may be able to save him. L'Arc: So you want me to stop Alf then? Clyde: I know I'm in no place to ask such a favor of you. But you're the only one that has the ability to stop him now. You were his friend, were you not? L'Arc: ...I still am. I really believe that. Clyde: I will continue down this path with Sir Alf. But please, First Sergeant Lagoon... L'Arc: (Alf... I wonder if you'll still listen to me...) (The party bids Clyde farewell and makes their way out of the volcano. At the entrance, they meet up with Niko and a Republic Soldier) Niko: Mr. L'Arc... L'Arc: Niko... Republic Soldier: I am here on orders from the Head Senator. A company of troops should arrive momentarily. Leslie: Thank you, but we've already taken care of things here. Carbunculus is safe. Republic: Soldier: Understood. I will make sure the Director knows. (The soldiers exits) Niko: Good work... And, umm... I managed to get in touch with Dr. Carlisle. Ryfia: Really? Good job Niko! Niko: ......Hehe...... Cecille: So where's the doctor then? Niko: Off surveying some caves. The work schedule is pretty tight, so you're gonna have to go there. Rastan: You mean the caves where Squill was? Niko: Yep. Serge: All right. Let's go see what this Dr. Carlisle has to say! (The party begins to leave, with L'Arc stopping for a moment) L'Arc: Niko, thank you. (He goes to join the others) Niko: Mr. L'Arc......! (The party leaves Ellgode Volcano and sets off for Soliton Caves) [--------------------------------------------] [Sonia Carlisle and Soliton Caves-------(SCS)] [--------------------------------------------] (The party enters Soliton Caves) Ryfia: I wonder what kind of person Dr. Carlisle is... Serge: Good question Ryfia! Ryfia: Really? Yay! Serge: Well, first of all, she's of the Divine Race. Next, she's a young woman. She is also the genius doctor that holds the key to saving the world. So, the answer is... Cecille: Is? Serge: That she's a beautiful, intelligent woman! I bet she wears glasses too! Oh man, I can't wait! The only girls I have now are Minimal Lady and this violent femme... The only girl worth going for is too busy chasing after that monkey of a soldier to care about anyone else. Cecille: I said stop calling me Minimal! Leslie: Who do you think you're calling "violent," anyhow? L'Arc: Yeah, and if anybody is a monkey around here, it's you! Ryfia: Well, I hope she is a beautiful, intelligent woman for your sake Serge. Serge: Thanks! (Rastan walks away from them) Serge: Huh? Where are you going, Rastan? Rastan: I don't want to listen to you anymore! I'm going on ahead. (The party searches the caves for Dr. Carlisle. They eventually come to an area named Fluorite Path and look there) Serge: Smart Beauty Carliiiisle. Ryfia: Smart Beauty Carliiiisle. L'Arc: ...Ryfia, stop calling her that! Ryfia: Why? L'Arc: Because! Serge: I'm not stopping! Smart Beauty Carliiiisle! ???: Okay... Cecille: Did you just get a reply?! Leslie: Over there! (The party notices a glasses-wearing woman being attacked by a monster nearby) ???: Heeeeelp! Rastan: Let's go L'Arc! L'Arc: Okay! (The party battles and defeats the creature known as Emeraldas) Cecille: No one can defeat me! I am Cecille, Hero of Justice! ???: Wow, thank you so much for rescuing me! Ryfia: Are you Dr. Carlisle? Sonia: Yes. I don't know if I'm the "smart beauty" you were hoping for but... the name's Sonia Carlisle. L'Arc: Y-You're Dr. Carlisle? Sonia: I heard you all were looking for me, but... L'Arc: Haven't you heard from Niko? Sonia: Oh, I have. So which one of you is L'Arc Bright Lagoon...? L'Arc: That's me! Sonia: I've heard a lot about you from Sir Weiss. Please call me Sonia. Ryfia: Great! We're here to ask you some questions about Hozone Code conversion. Sonia: Hozone Code conversion? Rastan: You see, the thing is... (The party explains their predicament to Sonia) Sonia: ...Hmm, interesting. I see you all reached the same conclusion that Sir Weiss did... L'Arc: He was thinking along similar lines? Sonia: Yes. He saved me when I was unconscious and dying. When he found out I was of the Divine Race he had me do research on ways to counter the effects of Hozone. I suppose his strong will must run in the family, eh L'Arc? L'Arc: You know about that too? Sonia: He always told me if something should happen to him to look to his little brother for help. Serge: Sonia, my beauty... How is that research going? Sonia: Ah, yes... Well... Basically I've found that it isn't completely impossible. Would you mind coming with me into these caves? I think I can explain everything better from inside. Rastan: I guess you'll have to. L'Arc: Okay, let's go. (Sonia leads the party deeper into the caves. They stop once they come to a waterfall) Sonia: Okay, here we are. These caves, as far as I know, contain the highest concentration of Ray on the planet. But even so, if we bring in a plant that's polluted with Hozone... Ryfia: It crystallizes... Sonia: Ha Ha! That's what it looks like, right? But, actually...! Cecille: Whoa! It's like magic! Sonia: I have installed a Code conversion device in this plant that disables the effects of the Hozone inside it. As you can see, it effectively neutralizes the Hozone. But, it took one month to convert the Code for the Hozone in this plant. Even with the Ray suppressing the power of the Hozone, it still takes a fair amount of time. Leslie: Well that's no use then... To neutralize the Hozone for the Divine Race, we must convert the Code for the whole world! Sonia: That's right. And if we completely neutralize it, the Hozone will simply become Ray. We have to neutralize its poison while still maintaining its Hozone state. That takes too much time. Rastan: Is there any other way? Sonia: Well, there is one thing... Ryfia: What do we have to do? Sonia: Before I answer that, let me ask you something... Why have you gone through all this, L'Arc? Depending on how you answer that, I may not be able to help you. L'Arc: ...I told Sir Weiss that I wanted to bring the future of humankind back into the hands of the people. That's not a lie, but the main reason I'm here, is because I want to protect myself and my friends. But I can't be content if I only save those around me while the rest of the world dies. I just thought... it would be great if I could save everyone else, too, while I was at it... Ryfia: L'Arc... Sonia: Hehe! Sir Weiss' answer was pretty good, but yours wasn't too bad either! Okay... I'll tell you what we have to do. We have to use the Singing Stone. L'Arc: The Singing... Stone...? Isn't that... Serge: Simmah's memories of his past. Remember? In Simmah's memories he said something about how he revered the Singing Stone as a god... Sonia: ...The Stone is currently in the Holy Land of Noire. The god Eesa that you speak of is none other than the Singing Stone itself. L'Arc: So you want us to rely on a god?! Sonia: Well, technically, Eesa is not a god at all. It is a jewel that spins the Code of the planet within its core. L'Arc: What... are you talking about? Sonia: You don't believe me??? Well, it's true! I was there when the knight Allul first discovered the Singing Stone. A thousand years ago, people revered the Stone as a god. Ryfia: So that's what Sir Weiss was talking about when he said people created the gods. Sonia: I'll tell you more about all this later. If we can harness the power of the Singing Stone, we can use that to neutralize the Hozone. L'Arc: If that's true, then that means I have to go to the Holy Land of Noire right? Serge: But you need to bond with nine Rogress to get there... Leslie: But hasn't Alf bonded with all the remaining Rogress already? Cecille: So... we have to go and take the Rogress from him? Sonia: I'll let you figure out how to do that. For now let's get outside. It's cold down here! (The group returns to the cave's entrance) Sonia: I have to go meet with the Resistance members now. Ryfia: Are you a member of the Resistance too Sonia? Sonia: Yes. I joined up with them after Sir Weiss passed away. I'm teaching them how to craft weapons and fight. Oh, that reminds me. I heard you're the new leader of the Resistance, L'Arc. L'Arc: Well yeah, kind of... But right now we have to get all the Rogress together don't we? Sonia: That's right. Once you open up a path to the Holy Land of Noire, I'll be able to help you more. L'Arc: Okay. We'll come find you when we're ready. Sonia: All right. I will be in the Senate in Carbunculus waiting for you. The leader... err, Director... should let me use the laboratory there. Leslie: Shelly? Sonia: Yes. Thanks to her I'm able to concentrate on my research. Anyway, until then... (Sonia leaves) Cecille: Well, we know what we have to do. Should we go bust in on Alf now? Serge: I guess we have to. Besides, ol' Clyde told us to do whatever it takes to stop him. Leslie: Yeah, and as the new leader of the Resistance... I guess you kind of owe it to them to overthrow his evil rule and all. L'Arc: Hey... I... Rastan: L'Arc, if you can just get Lord Alf to listen to you, then maybe you can fix this. That's what you want, right? Ryfia: Let's go see Alf and Adele, L'Arc. L'Arc: ...Okay, you're right. Let's head to Diamant. (The party leaves Soliton Caves and sets their course for Diamant) [---------------------------] [Confronting Alf-------(CFA)] [---------------------------] (The party arrives at Diamant. They meet with the soldiers at the city's front gates) Imperial Soldiers: You need a pass to enter Diamant. Cecille: A pass? Why? Imperial Soldier: Entry or exit without a pass is a violation of Article 3 of the Imperial Charter, punishable by death! Leslie: Whew, things really have gone crazy around here! L'Arc: Well, I guess we'll just have to force our way... (Freya arrives on the scene) Freya: Wait! They are guests of Lord Alf! Let them pass! Imperial Soldier: Yes sir! Freya: This way everyone... (Freya leads them into the city) L'Arc: Why are you helping us, General? Freya: Because I failed to protect Prince Weiss and I feel terrible... I may be a general, but I can't just stand by and let Sir Alf run things this way. Leslie: But as a soldier, you don't really need to get yourself involved in politics, do you? Freya: ...Maybe not, but I just don't think that the Empire is going in the right direction the way things are now. You're all here because you think the same way, right? Ryfia: Yes, you are correct. We have come here to meet with Alf. Freya: The castle is heavily guarded. Here, take this. (She hands them her pass) Freya: Show this to the guards and you should be able to get in without any problems. L'Arc: Thank you. Ryfia: Oh, I almost forgot. We saw Niko. Freya: What?! Where? Ryfia: I can't tell you that. He is working as a member of the Resistance now. He seemed to be doing well. Freya: ...I feel bad for what I did to him. If you ever see him again, could you at least tell him that I want to apologize? Serge: Well, well, isn't that sweet? L'Arc: What happened between you and Niko? Freya: ...I can't talk to you about it. If I told you, then there would be no reason for Niko to have left you. Cecille: Huh? What do you mean? Rastan: ............ Freya: Take care of Sir Alf for me. (The party strolls through the nearly-deserted Diamant on their way to the castle. Near its entrance, they cross paths with Luze and Saura yet again) Luze: Almost all the Rogress, L'Arc. L'Arc: Who are you, anyway, Luze? And you too, Saura! Ryfia: Saura... You look just like the woman that appeared in my father's... Simmah's memories. Who are you...? Saura: So you saw Simmah's memories? Leslie: Is that really... you? But you aren't of the Divine Race. You aren't wearing a Dragon Gem. Saura: I do not need a Dragon Gem. Luze: I can hear the pulse of Eesa waiting to be awakened in the Holy Land of Noire. L'Arc: Isn't Eesa just the Singing Stone? Luze: Eesa is the judge. He waits for the Child of Eesa to bring back the forgotten song. L'Arc: But I'm not choosing Imaginal or Real. Luze: That is something to be spoken of in the Holy Land of Noire. Our job is merely to watch over whichever Child of Eesa opens the gate to the Holy Land. Saura: Dive Ryfia... Ryfia: Yes...? Saura: Your father was the bravest soldier of all the Noire Twelve. Take care of yourself, for the same proud blood that ran through him, also runs through you. Ryfia: Saura! Tell me who you really are! Saura: I am the leader of the Noire Twelve, "Allul the Foreseeing." Luze: L'Arc, I pray that we shall meet again... At the end of the path to Noire... (The two women leave) Cecille: So what's going on here? Is Allul of the Divine Race or the Common Race? Serge: Oh, calm down, will ya Minimal Lady? Rastan: The Noire Twelve are the heroes that brought the world together as one... ...while we of the Divine Race were still here on Fulheim. It is said that they did great things under the rule of the legendary Coder Allul. L'Arc: Then she must be of the Divine Race. But why doesn't she wear a Dragon Gem...? Ryfia: Perhaps she became a Rogress like my father via Code conversion? Leslie: Hmm, a Rogress that looks like a human... Then what about Luze? Is she a Rogress too? Serge: ...Who knows? I think we can all agree they're both a complete mystery. L'Arc: Something's not right... My chest is aching... I feel like we might run into her again... Ryfia: L'Arc... (The party reaches the castle and talks to the soldiers at the entrance) Imperial Soldier 1: Well if it isn't L'Arc Bright Lagoon! L'Arc: Grr... You wanna fight? Imperial Soldier 2: I didn't say anything! Get out of Diamant while you still can! Lord Alf will have you killed! L'Arc: ...Huh...? Imperial Soldier 1: He's a changed man. Sir Weiss would've been better than this! L'Arc: ...I'm here to see him. (L'Arc shows the guards Freya's Pass) Imperial Soldier 2: This is General Freya's... Well, okay, but be careful! Trust me, he's not the Sir Alf you used to know. (The party enters the castle) Serge: I can't believe even the soldiers are saying things like that... Cecille: Well what do you expect? Alf has gone completely crazy! Ryfia: He must be pretty lonely... Leslie: You have a knack for saying weird things, don't you, Ryfia? Ryfia: It's true though... Before, he was surrounded by people that loved him, and he was such a nice person. I know he must feel terrible... L'Arc: But even so, he's bringing harm to thousands who haven't done anything wrong! You want me to feel sorry for him? No way that's happening! Ryfia: ...But L'Arc, even as you say that, I can see the tremendous sadness in your face. L'Arc: W-Whatever... I'm not sad... Rastan: Feeling pain because of the betrayal of a close friend is nothing to be ashamed of. Your father Rex was also a very kind man. L'Arc: ............ (They enter the Throne Hall upstairs and confront Alf, sitting on the middle throne, as well as Adele and Clyde) Clyde: First Sergeant Lagoon... You're here... Adele: L'Arc... L'Arc: Alf, what happened? How did we let things get like this? Alf: Perhaps it is because we are not working towards the same future. L'Arc: You think so? I mean, are we really that different? We're both trying to save the world from destruction! Alf: But, our methods are different. Ryfia: We know you made a deal with Real to try and stop the crystallization. But the way you're going about it, it is actually harming the world. Adele: Don't pretend to be a know-it-all! You're the one that sided with Imaginal to make the world exclusively for the Divine Race! Ryfia: Yes, but I didn't really know what I was doing. Now I realize the mistake that I made. I acknowledge what I did wrong, and now I'm trying to make things right. I want to help L'Arc save both the Divine Race and the Common Race. Alf: Save both...?! Is that really possible? L'Arc: Sir Weiss left us with a clue. We need to neutralize the Hozone... ...But still keep it. Please Alf, will you help us? Alf: ...What do you want me to do? L'Arc: If we use the power of the Singing Stone in the Holy Land of Noire, we can neutralize the Hozone. Together, we'll open the path to the Holy Land. Alf: Ha Ha Ha Ha! Cecille: Huh... What? Alf: Ha ha... You are clueless! Rastan: What do you mean? Alf: The Singing Stone is the god Eesa. That's the same as asking for help from the god Eesa himself! Clyde: The god Eesa is the embodiment of Real and Imaginal. He won't accept anything other than those two laws! Serge: That's impossible...!!! Adele: You poor thing, L'Arc! You were duped by an ignorant Diva and that heathen Weiss! I can't believe you were such a fool! Look, people's sole purpose is to serve the gods. Eesa will have nothing to do with a proposal that neutralizes the Hozone! Alf: Basically, the gods will only save people as they see fit to do so. That is why I sided with Real. Since I've reduced the people on this earth... Real will propose my wishes to Eesa! Leslie: You think you have the right to kill people for the sake of population control? (Alf stands) Alf: I do in the eyes of those that matter! That's enough! I have no reason to help you! Now leave the Rogress with me! L'Arc: ...Never! (Alf draws his sword) Alf: Then you choose to die!!! (Both parties do battle with each other, but before a winner is decided, Dynos enters the room and addresses Alf) Dynos: Alf! Stop! The North Noireists are here! Alf: What? (Ignacy appears in the doorway) Ignacy: Sorry to interrupt. I'm sure you're quite busy. (He approaches the rest of them) Ryfia: Walter?! Dynos: Who told you to enter?! Ignacy: Excuse me, but I don't have any time to waste talking to some stupid Divine Race kid right now. Dynos: Grrrrr...! Clyde: Dynos! Calm down! Dynos: .......Hmph....... Ignacy: I am Walter Ignacy, servant of North Noireism's Patriarch Hosea. Pleased to make your acquaintance. Alf: What do you pawns of Imaginal want from me? Ignacy: Imaginal wants to speak with both of the Children of Eesa. Thus, Hosea has invited you both to Lascarde. Rastan: Lascarde... Leslie: Patriarch Hosea is just trying to kill them, isn't he? He wants to get them both to Lascarde so he can kill them, I just know it! Ignacy: Lascarde has already been lowered to welcome you. You should be able to reach it easily in your Lightships. It is up to you whether you come or not. We will not force you to do anything against your will. But should you refuse to speak with Imaginal, I must warn you to expect retaliation. Ryfia: That's just... how you people do things isn't it? Ignacy: That's right. Now if you'll excuse me, I must be going. (Ignacy starts to leave, but stops to speak again) Ignacy: Oh yes, I almost forgot. You all know someone by the name of Niko Bennex, don't you? L'Arc: What have you done to him?! Ignacy: He... got in my way as I attempted to bring L'Arc's mother to Lascarde. So I decided to take him instead. Anyway, it's just a bit of useless trivia, but I thought I'd at least let you all know. L'Arc: You monster! Serge: Calm down! Fighting him now won't do any good! L'Arc: Grr! (Ignacy leaves) Alf: ...L'Arc, are you going to Lascarde even though you know it's a trap? L'Arc: If I want to make my case before the Singing Stone... before Eesa... Then I think meeting with Imaginal might be one way to do that. And... I can't just abandon Niko. Alf: Ha Ha! You're so naive L'Arc! You still don't see the big picture! Adele: ............?! L'Arc: ...Fine. Then we'll go save Niko on our own! But, when we get back from Lascarde, I want to talk to you one more time. I don't want to abandon you or Adele. In my eyes you're both still my friends. Alf: Well, you're not mine! Adele: ............ (The party leaves Diamant and returns to their Lightship) [------------------] [Cradle-------(CDL)] [------------------] (The party flies northeast to the Lascarde Skywalk. They enter and park the Lightship in the Airport) Cecille: It sure has been a while since I've been back here... Rastan: ............ Ryfia: So this is the Lascarde Skywalk... (They walk forward and are greeted by a man of the Divine Race) Divine Race: The area up ahead contains no Hozone. If anyone of the Common Race should enter, they would likely perish on the spot. Serge: Oh yeah, this Skywalk was built for the Divine Race. Leslie: So what are we supposed to do? Divine Race: If you wear this Dragon Gem you should be okay for some time. (The man hands them three Dragon Gems) L'Arc: Some time? That doesn't sound too promising! Divine Race: You should be guaranteed approximately 100 hours of survival. Rastan: So basically we can't stay for very long. L'Arc: Well, we can't get caught up in anything for too long, that's for sure! Ryfia: Let's just be careful! (The party rides the elevator in the northwest corner of the room up to the makeshift Divine Race city of Cradle, which was last seen in Ryfia's consciousness back at Zeifellt. It looks similar to how it appeared in Simmah's memories, with the exception of it now being in color and populated by actual citizens. The party starts in the plaza area known as the Hall of the Birth. On their way to meet Hosea, the party heads north through the Hall of the Rest into the Cradle of Stars, where the majority of the Divine Race still sleeps) Leslie: W-Whaaaat is with all these coffin looking things? Cecille: These aren't coffins! This is the Cradle of Stars. It's where we sleep. Rastan: A Code called the Lullaby runs through this room and puts those of the Divine Race to sleep. Ryfia: So I must have been asleep here at one time. L'Arc: Do you remember now? Ryfia: No... but I do remember this feeling. It feels like that feeling of security you have when your mother sung you a lullaby when you were little... Everybody here is of the Divine Race... Cecille: That's right. We sleep here until Fulheim is clean. Serge: Several hundred years of being crammed in a small place like this... No offense to the brave Minimum, but it's awful. Rastan: We, the Divine Race, have no other choice. L'Arc: The Common Race and the Divine Race... So this is what happened to the two races? Ryfia: L'Arc... Leslie: You can be sentimental all you want, but you shouldn't make people wait. L'Arc: You're right... Let's go see Hosea. (They leave the Cradle of Stars and meet up with Alf and his party back in the Hall of the Rest) Serge: Ohhhh, is that you Lord Alf? I thought you weren't going to come here... What happened? Ryfia: Cut it out Serge. Alf, you came for Niko, didn't you? Thank you! Alf: I didn't come here because I wanted to. Adele told me to. Adele: I just said, talking to him may not be out of the question... We aren't here for Niko. L'Arc: Whatever. As long as you're here, let's just try to help each other. Alf: ............ (A Divine Race woman appears and addresses the two parties) Divine Race: Child of Eesa? Hosea is waiting for you in the meeting room. You are free to enter. (Alf's party heads with her to the meeting room) Leslie: Alf sure has gotten hard-headed these days. Maybe it's because of Adele? Cecille: What do you mean? Leslie: Hmm, well she basically got the throne for him by attacking Batrachites. So as a result, Alf kind of decided to take all of Adele's sins as his own. ...Or something like that anyway. Cecille: I don't know what you're talking about. If he likes Adele, shouldn't he try to stop her or get mad at her and try to make her see that she's wrong? Serge: I agree, but I think it's hard to say what he "should" or "shouldn't" do. Sometimes people choose to bring everyone down with them... Ryfia: But if you're going to fall together, wouldn't it be better to try and fly together instead? Falling down hurts! Rastan: Ryfia... Serge isn't talking about physically falling down. Ryfia: Really? L'Arc: Ryfia... I think it's safe to say that mentally you're even younger than Cecille. Ryfia: ??? (The party follows Alf's group west into the Meeting Room, where Ignacy is waiting for them. There is also a circular indentation in the center of the room. Another Hosea hologram appears on top of the balcony at the far end) Hosea: Welcome. You are the chosen ones and the Eesa Factor resides within your very bodies. Rastan: Another hologram... Where are you, Hosea? Hosea: I am with Imaginal. Clyde: How rude. You can't even be here in person after we've come all this way to see you... L'Arc: Where's Niko? Let us see him! Hosea: Niko...? Ah, that fool is right here! (A Niko hologram appears) Niko: Ah... Mr. L'Arc! Everyone! Ryfia: That's terrible! Hosea, let him go immediately! Hosea: First I have something I want the two Children of Eesa to do for me. Ignacy: So... Eesa's Children, Alf... L'Arc. To prepare for your audience with Imaginal you must first cleanse and purify your bodies. Adele: A Spellsong? What's going on? Ignacy: You may question me afterward. (Two Divine Race citizens appear and stand in the center circle) L'Arc: ...So you want us to get in this? (The two citizens leave as L'Arc and Alf step into the circle. A barrier appears and surrounds them as electrical energy paralyzes both them and their parties) L'Arc: W-What the?! Dynos: I... I can't move! Cecille: What a dirty trick! Alf: Huh... Ahhhhhhh! (Alf's body glows and he proceeds to kneel down in pain) L'Arc: Alf?! What's wrong?! Hosea: Ignacy! What's going on here! L'Arc isn't harmed at all! Ignacy: ...L'Arc is half Divine Race and half Common Race. That's ruining the effect of the Spellsong. It's blocking the extraction of Eesa's Code. Ryfia: The extraction of Eesa's Code? Serge: ...I see what's going on here now. You're trying to extract Eesa's Factor from them and create a new Child of Eesa, aren't you?! Hosea: These Children are incompetent! They have plunged us into chaos! So now I must use Eesa's Factor to create a new Child of Eesa and force them to choose Imaginal's Law! Alf: ...I can't... breathe... urrrrgh... L'Arc: No, Alf! Get out of the Spellsong! Hurry! Alf: I... can't... Adele: Alf! (Ryfia tries singing a hymn to save Alf, but its effects bounce right off of him) Alf: Urrrgh... ungh... Ryfia: It's... no use! Alf's body is reflecting the Ray. Why?! Ignacy: ...You're wasting your time. That Spellsong replaces Hozone in the body with Ray to extract Code data. A Common Race man would die from Ray poisoning. Rastan: I see... So that's why that Spellsong wasn't activated on the Divine Race last time. Adele: My Hymn can manipulate Hozone... Let my Hozone enter Alf! (Adele begins singing her hymn to revitalize Alf, and becomes surrounded by red light) Alf: Adele, stop! Please... stop! (Alf struggles to move as the others, mainly Ryfia, watch in horror. Adele stops singing momentarily to reply) Adele: ...I'm sorry... Alf... Even in the very end... I couldn't be what you wanted me to be... Alf: Adele! Just you being alive is enough for me...! Adele: That's right... Even when you found out the truth about Batrachites... You never turned your back on me. Even though... I wanted you to... But even after all the things I did... Alf: ...I knew. I knew that someday you'd want to go back to L'Arc... But I... I tied you down... I didn't want to lose you! I still don't want to lose you! Adele: I wish... I could have liked you, Alf... Alf: Those words are all I needed to hear! So please, don't try to help me anymore! If I am gone then you can finally be with L'Arc...! Adele: ...But I... already decided... From the time you became emperor... that I would die for you... You forgave me for always thinking about L'Arc... And for that... I'll give you... my life... (The hymn resumes. Alf inaudibly pleads with Adele to stop) Adele: That way... I can always be yours... (Adele's mouth moves to say something muted just as the hymn finishes. She then vanishes and dies, the barrier and Spellsong deactivating afterwards) Dynos: Lady Adele...... Ignacy: We were only able to get Alf's Code... but that's enough. I can feel the power of Eesa within me! No longer must I take orders from those know-it- alls of the Divine Race! (Ignacy flees the room) Alf: ............! (Alf gets up, brandishes his sword, and chases after Ignacy) Clyde: Dynos! What are you doing? Let's go after Sir Alf! Dynos: ...I couldn't protect Ms. Rafil... and I couldn't protect Lady Adele either. Clyde: Dynos! Stop regretting the past! You have a duty to fulfill! Dynos: ......! Okay! (Clyde and Dynos follow the others) Rastan: Are you okay, L'Arc? L'Arc: ...Yeah. Leslie: Alf's gotta be pretty mad right now! Ryfia: L'Arc! Let's go after him! L'Arc: Okay. I'll never forgive Ignacy for what he's done... (The party follows Alf, Clyde, Dynos, and Ignacy back to the Hall of the Birth. Upon arrival, they see that the trio had already begun battling Ignacy, and Clyde and Dynos lay weakened on the ground. Alf follows suit) Ignacy: I don't have time to deal with the likes of you! (L'Arc faces Ignacy) L'Arc: Alf! Alf: ...That's weird... I can't summon my Rogress... Ignacy: Of course not Lord Alf, for you are no longer the Child of Eesa! The Eesa Factor that was within you is now mine. Now L'Arc... all that's left is for me to kill you! I will be the sole Child of Eesa on this planet! L'Arc: Not if I kill you first! (Alf stands) Alf: Let me help you, L'Arc! I have to... for Zamuel, and now for Adele. L'Arc: Whatever you want... (L'Arc, his party, and Alf battle Ignacy, and eventually defeat him) Ignacy: How could I... be defeated... Serge: Your death was already decided. Rastan: Such is the fate of an assassin. Ignacy: ...Heh... Hehehe...... With the technology of the Divine Race... The world... the world was nearly mine... Leslie: The world? You did all this for something so stupid? You killed all those people for that? Why would you do that for something so meaningless? Ignacy: Everything... is meaningless... Rastan: You took Rex's life... You took the life of my wife and my daughter... L'Arc: Rastan... Rastan: Although, I suppose I am somewhat responsible for Rex's death too... Yes... Serge: ...Maybe, but the main cause of all this comes from him. Leslie: Well, well, Ignacy... I never knew a person could be hated as much as you are! Ignacy: Hmph... Ha Ha Ha! All things are based on the concept of sacrifice. I was willing to sacrifice everything for my desi... (Ignacy gasps in pain as Alf fatally stabs him. His corpse falls to the ground) Alf: ............ Niko and Hosea are up ahead, L'Arc. You go first. L'Arc: Alf... Alf: I'm doing this to avenge Adele. I'll be right behind you. Trust me. But first I have to take Clyde and Dynos back to the Lightship. They were injured protecting me after I lost the power of the Rogress. Cecille: Then I'll stay behind too. I'm worried about Dynos. Dynos: ...No thanks. I'm the enemy of the Imaginal Diva. Do you want to help the enemy of your friend? Cecille: But you're my brother! Dynos: Then let me put it this way. I don't want help from a friend of the Imaginal Diva. Alf: Leave Dynos to me. You go on ahead with L'Arc. Cecille: ............ L'Arc: Hurry up, Alf! I'll take care of things myself if you take too long getting back! (Alf, Clyde and Dynos leave. The party leaves Cradle from the elevator and returns to the Airport) [----------------------------] [Lascarde Skywalk-------(LSW)] [----------------------------] (The party takes the elevator in the east side of the Airport up to the corridors of the Skywalk. They battle monsters and deactivate laser barriers in their search for Niko and Hosea. They come to the Control Center along the way, which houses a circular device and a few doors) Ryfia: Where are we...? Rastan: This is the Lightship used by the Divine Race to come down to Fulheim. Cecille: Lascarde doesn't have that much in the way of stored food supplies you know. So all the people who wake up get a Dragon Gem and come here for the trip. L'Arc: Can't you just go right back to sleep instead? Rastan: Once we wake up we have to wait at least 5 years before going back to sleep, or the toll on our bodies is too great. Ryfia: So when that time comes, will you guys go back to sleep? Rastan: Ignacy murdered my wife and daughter. I will live out the last of my days on Fulheim. Cecille: I want to go back to sleep again... with Dynos... But I really don't think Ryfia would like that. Ryfia: You're right... I can't forgive Dynos. He killed my mother and all her followers. But that doesn't mean I want him to die as well. I won't be satisfied until I can ask him why he killed them myself. I'm sorry. Cecille: No, it's okay. Thank you Ryfia. Leslie: Anyway, it's no use talking about all this right now. Let's get going. Serge: Okay. (The party rides the elevator on the far side of the room higher into the Skywalk. They pass the Communications Room as they continue onward. They eventually come to the Hall of the Law, where Hosea is hiding and Niko is imprisoned in a red energy cage. There is also a large gemstone floating behind them. Niko bangs on the cage with his hand) Niko: ............! Hosea: Ah, so you've arrived... L'Arc: Ignacy is dead despite taking the Eesa Factor. Your plan is completely ruined! Hosea: That's fine. All I have to do is kill you and wait for the birth of a new Child of Eesa. L'Arc: Oh yeah, that's right. You wanted to kill me. Hosea: Oh, but don't get me wrong... I do not wish for your death. Imaginal does. (Ignacy looks at and raises his hands toward the gemstone) L'Arc: What...? Hosea: You have been lucky to make it this far. Imaginal has given me his power so that I may finish you once and for all! Serge: I see... The Divine Race is just a sacrificial pawn for the gods. (Hosea begins to glow) Hosea: Silence! Any fool that opposes the gods shall feel their wrath! Ryfia: Hosea, you're the only fool here! Try and understand! Imaginal has to see that both races are human beings! Hosea: Imaginal sees only the Divine Race as human! L'Arc: Sorry Alf. He's gotta pay! (The party prepares for battle) Cecille: Prepare yourself... for justice! (They battle and defeat Hosea, who proceeds to reach for the gemstone on his knees) Hosea: Impossible... Imaginal... please... grant me more power... L'Arc: Is he saying that this big gemstone is actually the god Imaginal?! Leslie: So what Alf was saying is true... L'Arc: This stupid rock is why the Common Race was abandoned?! Rastan: L'Arc! If you destroy Imaginal, the Lullaby will be stopped! You're going to wake up everyone! L'Arc: ......Grr...... Hosea: Heh... Hehehe... This planet only exists for the Divine Race! Yes, I may die... but I will take the Common Race with me... (Hosea collapses on the floor and dies) Serge: ...Well, looks like he's dead. (Niko is released from his prison. Ryfia goes to help him up) Ryfia: Niko, are you all right? Are you hurt? Niko: I'm fine! But we're in big trouble! Hosea has rigged Lascarde to attack the planet when he dies... (An automated voice rings out from Imaginal) Control System: Emergency! Emergency! Prepare to fire primary weapon "White Spear." Rastan: White Spear?! Ryfia: What in the world is White Spear? Cecille: Lascarde's primary weapon. Rastan: If we let that thing go off, the Common Race will all be killed! Niko: I heard Hosea say the control room is somewhere near here. L'Arc: Rastan, can you shut it off? Rastan: I can try! (The party heads to the Communications Room to shut off White Spear. Rastan accesses the computer console in the room for a solution) Cecille: Is it working? Rastan: I don't know, but... Serge: Well that's not good... It's still loading Ray energy. Control System: Primary weapon "White Spear" ready to fire. Diamant set as first target. L'Arc: Diamant...! (Rastan looks through the computer further) Rastan: I think I can stop it from firing after the first shot. But there's no way I can stop that first one! Serge: You mean there's nothing we can do?! Rastan: Well if we could destroy the turret at the bottom of Lascarde... Niko: ............! (Niko begins to leave) Ryfia: Where are you going, Niko? Niko: I overheard Hosea talking about another way to stop the cannon from firing. I'm going to go check it out! L'Arc: Wait, another way? What is it...? Niko: Let me handle this one, Mr. L'Arc! You know... I really look up to you Mr. L'Arc. That's why I wanna help you this time! (Niko leaves) Ryfia: Isn't he acting a little weird, L'Arc? L'Arc: Ah... Yeah, kind of... Rastan: Serge and I can take care of things here. The rest of you go after Niko. Leslie: Okay, sounds good. I have a bad feeling about this... (L'Arc, Ryfia, Cecille and Leslie head down the elevator to the Control Center to search for Niko, who is shown to be boarding a Lightship and preparing to take off nearby) Cecille: Niko... Don't tell me that he's in there! (Cecille points to the door near her. The screen mounted on the circular device in the room activates, showing Niko in his Lightship's cockpit) Niko: Mr. L'Arc, I thought I told you not to... (The Lightship takes off) Niko: Ahhhhhhhhh! L'Arc: Niko! What are you doing?! Niko: I'm... going to destroy the turret... L'Arc: Destroy the... You can't do that, Niko! Niko: T-Tell General Freya... I give her my best wishes! I'm... sorry for all the trouble I ever caused you! L'Arc: You idiot! Do you hear what you are saying? You'll die if you do this! Get out of there! Niko: Heh... Hehe... I guess I am just a coward... I'm... so scared I... can hardly talk... I sound stupid... so I'm switching off! Ryfia: Niko! Wait! (Niko switches off the video signal and his image fades away. Outside, he flies his Lightship into White Spear's turret as it prepares to fire) Niko: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh! (The turret explodes and is destroyed, taking Niko along with it. Niko's last words are shown afterwards) Niko: Mr. L'Arc... I'm sorry that all I ever did was cause you trouble, even in the very end. (Back in the Control Center, a distant rumble is heard, signifying Niko's sacrifice) Cecille: Oh no... Niko...!!! (Alf arrives on the scene) Alf: L'Arc, what happened...? What was that explosion? Leslie: Niko... sacrificed himself to save Diamant. (Rastan and Serge return) Alf: What are you talking about...? Niko's... Serge: Lascarde's turret was pointed at Diamant. So to keep it from firing, he... Rastan: L'Arc, the blast stopped before it reached Diamant. L'Arc: But... Niko... Alf: ............! (Alf starts to walk away) Leslie: Where do you think you're going? Hosea's dead. Alf: But Imaginal isn't. He lured us here so he could kill us. I'm going to give him what he deserves! Cecille: But if you do that, all the Divine Race will wake up. Alf: Do you think I care?!? Ryfia: If they wake up then they won't all be able to live in Lascarde. Rastan: There's only a limited number of Dragon Gems. There aren't nearly enough for everyone... Without those Gems, they can't live down here, either! Alf: Then let 'em die! I'm sick of all this race junk! L'Arc: ...If that's your plan then I'm afraid I can't let you go any further. Alf: So you're protecting Imaginal now? He's the reason both Adele and Niko are dead! L'Arc: I'm not protecting any god. I'm protecting my fellow human beings. Alf: ...Fine... Then I'll get revenge my own way! Ryfia: Alf... What are you thinking of doing now...? Alf: I will recreate the world the way Adele wanted. That's certain to bring some despair to Imaginal! (Alf leaves them. The party heads back to the Hall of the Birth in Cradle, where they're approached by a Divine Race man) Divine Race: ...Rastan, what happened to Hosea? Why did the White Spear activate all of a sudden? Rastan: Hosea is dead. Divine Race: What......? Rastan: There's no one left to assemble the sleeping Divine Race. Divine Race: You Common Race infidels! Did you kill Hosea? Are you trying to destroy our people? Cecille: Stop it! The Divine Race are the ones who abandoned the Common Race in the first place! Divine Race: Shut up child! L'Arc: Enough! If you keep on blabbering like this, then I'll destroy all of you right now! Divine Race: ............ L'Arc: (to Ryfia) Can you seal off the path to Imaginal? Cecille: Why would you do that? Leslie: A-ha! I know. L'Arc wants to kill Imaginal while still keeping him alive. Serge: If the Divine Race can't receive his revelations, then he can't interfere with what's happening. Rastan: Sealing off the room that Hosea was in should do the trick. Ryfia: The key to that door is a Code right? If that's the case, then I can just overwrite the Code on the lock. L'Arc: All right, let's try it! (The party returns to the Control Room and seals off the door to Imaginal's chamber) Ryfia: Well, I managed to seal it, but it won't last forever. L'Arc: That's fine. We only need to keep it sealed until we can neutralize all the Hozone. Then we'll just destroy that stupid rock and be done with it. (A siren blares, and images depicting the ocean appear on the center console) Cecille: What's... this...? Rastan: This must be the Hozone reacting. But... Ryfia: It's expanding into the ocean... and fast! L'Arc: What's going on...? It's closing in on Diamant, Carbunculus and Antrax. A... Hozone wave? Serge: No, it's not that... Could this be... A new continent? Leslie: ...There's something in the center. L'Arc: Look at that...! (The screens show a coral reef surrounded by dark blue water in the middle of the sea. The island rises, revealing a large structure, and releases an expanding cloud of purple gas, or Hozone, which crystallizes into a continent covered with fang-shaped stalagmites) Serge: Hey... Did you guys see the center of the Hozone?! Cecille: What was it? Serge: Well, you weren't here so I guess you didn't... In the middle there was a huge coral reef we saw from the boat when we escaped Mandelro. L'Arc: Wait, that coral reef is the source of the Hozone? Leslie: According to the monitor readings... it looks like it. Ryfia: At this rate the crystallization of the Hozone is going to reach the cities any second now! L'Arc: Let's land over there. A normal coral reef shouldn't produce tons of Hozone like that... Rastan: Right. If we don't do something the crystallization is just going to keep spreading. Let's hurry! (The party leaves the Lascarde Skywalk and sets out for this new land) [---------------------------------------------------] [The Crystal Continent and Verct Skywalk-------(CVS)] [---------------------------------------------------] (The party flies to the center of the world and lands on the newly-created crystal continent) L'Arc: Nice landing. Serge: More like "nice Hozone-ing" considering what we're sitting on right now. Cecille: Don't worry! The Cecille the Brave is like an extension of my body. There's nothing to fear! Rastan: The situation looks pretty serious down there, if you ask me. Leslie: It looks like those red fangs are getting ready to eat us alive! L'Arc: Whatever. They can try if they want! Serge: With this team, we'd be like poison anyway, eh? Ryfia: L'Arc, are we really poison? L'Arc: ...Heh, yeah I guess so. Let's show them what this poison can do! (The party walks to the coral reef at the center of the continent and heads inside it. The interior is filled with nature, which includes grass, plants, monsters, and more red fangs. Sunlight shines down from the ceiling) Rastan: Is this that coral reef you were talking about? Serge: I think so... This place is so huge I can't really tell. Leslie: The crystallization hasn't reached this area yet I guess. Ryfia: I think the source of the Hozone is inside here... I can feel it... It's like some kind of foreboding pulse... Cecille: So they're waiting for us inside here? Ryfia: Real... L'Arc: And... Alf. Serge: Didn't you hear Alf? The re-creation of the world will bring despair to Imaginal. I think he was talking about this crystallization. Ryfia: Alf... If that's true, I can't imagine why he'd do such a thing... Cecille: Let's just keep going. We won't know anything until we take a look for ourselves. L'Arc: Right. No matter who's doing this, if we don't do something about it, the whole planet will be crystallized. (The party explores the area. L'Arc, Ryfia and Leslie stop for a minute along the way) L'Arc: ............ Ryfia: L'Arc... are you tired? L'Arc: No. I was just thinking about how Adele and Niko died in Lascarde... Wondering just what it is I'm doing. Leslie: Well, we don't have time for any self-hatred. If we don't get moving, the world's going to be destroyed. L'Arc: Self-hatred? ...Maybe. But if I keep going down this path I'm going to end up fighting against Alf. When I think about why all this happened, I begin to wonder if this is really what I should be doing. Ryfia: L'Arc... I'm the one that got us all into this situation. L'Arc: Ryfia... Ryfia: I have to take responsibility. You told me that yourself! If the world is destroyed like this, how can I take responsibility for what I've done? Sorry for being so mean about it, but I can't just stop now. Not like this. L'Arc: ...You're right. (Niko... Adele... Sorry, I'll have to mourn you later. I have something I have to do right now.) (The party continues onward. They encounter Dynos a short time later) Dynos: So, my sister... you're here. Cecille: Dynos... L'Arc: I suppose Alf is here too then? Dynos: He's with Real now. Rastan: So he's the one behind this crystallization after all... Dynos: Alf renounced his pact with Real. Since he's no longer the Child of Eesa, he said he can't fulfill the terms of the deal anymore. So that's when Real decided to start the crystallization. L'Arc: But I thought he couldn't do that until Real's Law was presented to Eesa? Dynos: Ha ha! If that was true, how do you explain this? Serge: Don't be fooled, L'Arc! He's the one who made Alf collect all the Rogress. Without Eesa's power, the crystallization probably won't make it to its final stages. Dynos: Well, either way, you are all going to die here! Cecille: ...You're really going to fight me? Dynos: If you don't back down, then... yes. Cecille: Well, I'm not! I'm going to stand my ground and fight! I made my choice! I'm going to fight for L'Arc because he never abandoned the Divine Race! Dynos: I'm jealous. At least you have someone to fight for. I have nothing. I was cast aside long ago, and now I have nothing left. If the world wants to keep betraying me, then now it's my turn to betray the world! (The party battles and defeats Dynos, who's kneeling on the ground afterwards) Cecille: Dynos... it's over. (He stands up) Dynos: Not yet... I'm still alive. As long as I still live I will fight against you! Cecille: Why are you so committed to the Diva, Dynos? Dynos: I was... nearly killed by our father. If I hadn't been saved by Ms. Rafil, the last Real Diva, I would be dead right now. Cecille: Dad...? No way...... Dynos: Dad opened my eyes... to kill Ms. Rafil that is. But... I couldn't do it. Cecille: Of course you couldn't! You didn't even have the guts to kill a bug! Dynos: You're right, I didn't. And Dad knew that too. He never had any kind of expectations for me. I was taken to Ms. Rafil and Dad almost took my Dragon Gem from me. Cecille: What...? But without a Dragon Gem, you'd die. Rastan: ...No, before you die you turn into a Feldragon. L'Arc: What...? Dynos: He's right. When the Divine Race absorbs Hozone, we turn into Feldragons. Ms. Rafil saved me, but Dad turned himself into a Feldragon just so he could kill Ms. Rafil. Like this! (Dynos rips the Dragon Gem off his body and falls to his knees. He begins to glow as he writhes in pain) Dynos: Urgh, unnngh... Urrrahhhhhh! Cecille: Dynos?! Dynos: Dad abandoned me, and the entire Divine Race betrayed me! Even Ms. Rafil, truth be known... She tried to discover a way for people to survive through Olquinaism! Rastan: I can't stop the transformation now. But before it completes... (Rastan steps forward, but Cecille stops him) Cecille: ...Let me handle this! (Cecille puts an end to Dynos' life before he could transform. His last words are heard) Dynos: Cecille... I just... wanted Dad... to love me... (Dynos disappears from existence) Cecille: (...Dynos. I'm your sister, and I didn't know any of this!) (I'm sorry I failed you as a sister...) (The party heads deeper in. Cecille stops to reflect on Dynos' death along the way) Cecille: ............ Ryfia: ...Cecille. L'Arc: Cecille! We gotta hurry! Come on! Cecille: Hey, wait up! Don't leave me! What are you going to do without a hero like me around to fight for you! Ryfia: Hey... L'Arc... L'Arc: ...I think I already know what you're going to say. But I don't know what to say to make Cecille feel better. The only thing I can do is to act like I always do. Ryfia: ............ Cecille: Hey, what are you two whispering about? Ryfia: Oh, nothing. Cecille: Oh... Well, by the way L'Arc... Even if the crystallization won't go all the way, we can't just let it run its course. L'Arc: If Real is causing it, then there's only one way to stop it. Leslie: Kill him, right? Serge: That's what it seems like, Minimal Lady. I know you're going through some rough times right now, but save your tears for later. Ryfia/L'Arc: ! Cecille: Serge...... Okay! L'Arc: ...Now that's something I could never do. Rastan: Still haven't gotten older in some respects, eh Serge? Serge: That's the last thing I wanted to hear you say, Rastan! (The party keeps going until they meet up with Clyde next) Clyde: So Dynos was defeated... Cecille: ...We... No, I killed him. Clyde: Dynos was always looking for a place to die. So young, and he had lost hope in everything. Serge: What about you? Are you looking for your place to die, too? Clyde: I follow Sir Alf in whatever he decides to do. Ryfia: Please, let us through. We aren't here to fight you. L'Arc: We're here to kill Real. Clyde: There are two completely different Clydes inside of me. One of them says to fight you, and one of them says to let you pass... for Sir Alf's sake. Leslie: So what's your decision General? Clyde: I must do whatever it is that allows Sir Alf to fulfill his ambitions. Leslie: You're a true military man... or at least, really hard-headed... Not that it's a bad thing! I understand, really I do! Rastan: As do I, but just because I can empathize with you, doesn't mean I'm going to go easy on you! Clyde: Of course! Now come, defeat me and make your way to Real! (The party defeats Clyde) Clyde: ...Impressive. (Ryfia checks on him) Ryfia: Clyde?! Clyde: ...Do not feel sorry for your enemy. Ryfia: You may have been our enemy there, Clyde... But that Clyde's gone, now! Clyde: Diva Ryfia, you are still so young! But it's the purity and innocence of that youth that may end up saving all of humankind... L'Arc: We are going to see Real, General. Alf is there too, isn't he? Clyde: Sir Alf missed his chance to retreat from this battle the moment he lost Adele. First Sergeant Lagoon... L'Arc... The rest is up to you now. (The party keeps moving. They come to a passageway that leads into the Hall of the Law. They walk the light red-colored paths and ride a few elevators down until they come face-to-face with Alf. The Real jewel floats behind him, whose appearance is that of a large red orb with many patterns and designs) Alf: Welcome to the Verct Skywalk. Ryfia: This is a Skywalk? Leslie: I thought the one under the shrine in Olquina was Verct... Alf: When Verct collapsed, it broke into two pieces. Real, the Singing Stone, is right back there. (He points to the stone) L'Arc: Skywalks and gods and laws... Isn't it strange... how all of a sudden these things have taken over our lives. And in the end, here we are facing off against each other. Alf: You're right... It's strange how things worked out. Many have died... I've killed more people than I can count. I've also lost a lot of people who were close to me... L'Arc: Alf, do you remember when... ...we were kids? When we broke Zamuel's rule... and fought against each other for real? (Alf looks away) Alf: ............ L'Arc: Even though this... this situation is totally different... I can't help but remember. Alf: ...We never did finish that fight, but this time I'm going to win! L'Arc: So you're really going to do this? You really don't care if the entire world is crystallized?!? Alf: That is my revenge! L'Arc: But don't you realize? Then your country will be gone! Alf: It's not my country! Don't forget I killed my brother, I... I forever turned my back on the Royal Family! The throne was just a means to an end! Leslie: If that's true, then I can't even look at you right now! Alf: Then don't look! I don't care! Cecille: Are you sure you didn't just feel cornered, like Dynos did? Alf: So what if I did? Why would that matter? Serge: She means quit putting up this stupid front and start working with us! Rastan: I'm pretty sure you can still tell the difference between right and wrong. Ryfia: Your fate was twisted because of me. If you want to hate me then I'll totally understand. But please, don't bring any more sadness and pain to L'Arc! Alf: L'Arc, you were always good at attracting decent people. My brother, Adele... both of them were always looking your way. Somewhere deep down I think I was always jealous of that. That's why I have to fight you! I have to do this for myself. (He draws his sword) L'Arc: ...Fine! I'll show you just how wrong you are! Alf: L'Arc... prepare yourself! (The party battles Alf, eventually emerging victorious. L'Arc points his sword at the kneeling Alf) L'Arc: ...Do you see now? Alf: What... are you talking about...? L'Arc: What you said... you said you were jealous because I have good people around me... Well, you are totally blind, aren't you? Alf: What...? L'Arc: There wasn't a single citizen who didn't admire you. Everyone in the entire country loved you! Alf: But I... I wanted them to see me for who I really was! L'Arc: You are who you are because you are a prince. But that doesn't matter, I've always seen you for who you really are. Alf: ...Ha... Ha Ha Ha... You're right L'Arc... I was always jealous when I was with you... but I was happy. Or at least I thought I was. L'Arc, you've won. L'Arc: Maybe we'll have a chance to practice again, like when we were kids... (L'Arc holds out his and helps Alf to his feet) Alf: ...L'Arc, I want you to have this. (Alf holds out his Rogress' Dragon Gems) L'Arc: Isn't this the... Rogress...?! Alf: I don't need it anymore. Use it and forge your own path with it. L'Arc: ...Okay. (L'Arc takes the Rogress. The earth starts rumbling) Ryfia: What's that? An earthquake? (L'Arc begins to glow) L'Arc: What... What's going on...? Alf: Eesa must be trying to summon you. Serge: That's it! L'Arc has gathered all nine Logos! Finally, the path to the Holy Land is about to be opened! Alf: L'Arc, go back up with everyone. I'll follow once I destroy the core. L'Arc: What are you talking about? We'll help you! Alf: L'Arc, you have to let me finish this! Clyde: I'll protect Sir Alf. (A limping Clyde walks down the hall toward the others) Clyde: L'Arc, hurry back up to the surface! L'Arc: ...Okay. (to Alf) Just remember, it may look like it's just a gemstone, but it's a god! Alf: I know. I'll be right behind you as soon as I'm done here. I'll be there to see your final decision. L'Arc: You better be! Alf: Ryfia, take care of L'Arc! Ryfia: I will. (The party leaves. Alf and Clyde stay behind) Clyde: Sir Alf, are you ready for action? Alf: Yes. Let's go! (The duo charges at the Real gemstone, weapons in hand. The party is about to leave the Hall of the Law when L'Arc stops for a moment) L'Arc: ............ Ryfia: L'Arc... (A mysterious sound is heard) L'Arc: Huh?! What the...?! Ryfia: What's wrong? L'Arc: Eesa is... calling for me... (L'Arc runs ahead, the rest of the party following suit. A large stone-like structure rises out of the crystal continent, tearing the nearby land asunder in the process. It is blue, with a pointed yellow bottom and several rays of light extending out from it) L'Arc: Is that... the Holy Land of Noire?! Ryfia: The Rogress are responding to it... It must be the Holy Land. Leslie: If it is, then I guess it's finally time for Sonia to do her job. Serge: If Eesa won't accept anything other than Imaginal or Real's Law like Alf said... Our whole plan was useless from the very beginning. We'd better check on that before anything else. Cecille: I guess this is no time to be sad. Let's go talk to Sonia. L'Arc: All right. (The party leaves the Verct Skywalk and flies off to Carbunculus) [------------------------------------] [Preparations for the End-------(PFE)] [------------------------------------] (The party reaches Carbunculus and meets with Sonia in the Senate Laboratory) Sonia: So the Holy Land of Noire has finally appeared... L'Arc: You said that to neutralize the Hozone we'd need help from the Singing Stone... from Eesa, right? Sonia: Did I say that? Ryfia: You sure did! Sonia: Hmm, I said you'd need to use the power of the Singing Stone, not get help from it. Rastan: What do you mean...? Sonia: There are three reasons the Singing Stone, the Eesa Gem, is referred to as a god. One, its Code-spinning powers. Two, its ability to spread Codes worldwide via the Ray Stream. Leslie: And three...? Sonia: It has a sense of self-awareness... An ego! Cecille: Well that makes sense, it would have to if it's going to select one of the two Laws. Sonia: That's what makes things difficult. The Eesa Gem may not agree to neutralize the Hozone. Serge: So what do we do if that happens? Sonia: Use this. (Sonia hands L'Arc a Purity Program) L'Arc: What's that? Sonia: It's a Code Stone I crafted using the Meridian Bible as a reference. It contains a program to neutralize the Hozone in its Code form. Destroy the core of the Eesa Gem and put this in its place. Ryfia: But if we destroy the Eesa Gem how can we use its power? Sonia: You only need to destroy the core, not the entire thing. L'Arc: I don't get it... Sonia: The Eesa Gem is enormous. The entire Holy Land of Noire is the Eesa Gem itself. Imaginal and Real are the equivalent of just a tiny fragment of the Eesa Gem. Eesa's ego is only contained in its core, so once you've stopped that, it will no longer be self-aware. Cecille: Oh... Is it really that easy? Sonia: Do you feel better about it now? Oh, I almost forgot. I need to explain some things about the program to the Child of Eesa. Sorry, but could you all leave us alone for a few moments? Ryfia: I need to stay here with L'Arc. Sonia: No... I can only speak about this with the Child of Eesa. L'Arc: Just give us a sec, guys. I'm sure it's no big deal. Cecille: Aww, that's no fair! (The rest of the party leaves the room) Sonia: L'Arc, there is something I've been hiding from you. L'Arc: Well? What is it? Sonia: It's about neutralizing only the poison in the Hozone... To do so requires finding a solution among a nearly infinite number of different patterns. But, if you destroy the core of the Eesa Gem, its processing power will be greatly reduced. It may not be able to find a solution in time. L'Arc: But didn't you just tell us to destroy the core earlier? Sonia: ...Yes, but only because there is another core that you must replace it with. I'm not talking about the Code Stone I gave you. The person that has Eesa's Factor within his body... L'Arc: ...You mean... me? Sonia: Yes. You will become the core and neutralize all the Hozone in the world. Of course this will likely take many generations to complete. You'll be put to sleep like the Divine Race. You'll be parting ways with everybody you know. You'll have to say goodbye to them. Is this truly the path you wish to take? You need to be sure. L'Arc: I... I don't know what to say... Sonia: Then take some time and think about it. Your decision involves the future of this world, so I already told the Director about this. She said she would make arrangements to welcome you in the future when you wake up again. L'Arc: ............ Sonia: The choice is yours. (L'Arc leaves the room and reunites with his friends) Ryfia: L'Arc! Are you finished talking? L'Arc: Ah... yeah... She just said if I have any hesitation as the Child of Eesa, the entire plan might fail. So... sorry, but do you mind if we go visit Diamant before we do anything else? I want to think about things and figure out what I'm going to do there. Serge: What do you have to figure out? L'Arc: You know... just... what I need to do to face the Singing Stone. Leslie: Well, it should be okay. I don't think the Holy Land is going anywhere. Rastan: ............ Cecille: Okay! Cecille the Brave will take us there in no time! (The party leaves Carbunculus and flies to Diamant. They visit Zamuel's Martial Arts School and enter the Guest House to meet with Elena) Elena: L'Arc! L'Arc: Mom... Mind if I rest for a bit...? I want to be alone for a while. Make sure everyone gets some rest. (The party spends the night at the school. L'Arc dreams about what Sonia told him) Sonia: Yes. You will become the core and neutralize all the Hozone in the world. Of course this will likely take many generations to complete. You'll be put to sleep like the Divine Race. You'll be parting ways with everybody you know. You'll have to say goodbye to them. Is this truly the path you wish to take? You need to be sure. (In the morning, Elena goes to check on L'Arc in the school's 2nd floor bedroom) Elena: L'Arc, do you have a minute? L'Arc: Mom? Sure, what is it...? Elena: You look tired... Are you okay? L'Arc: I'm fine. Elena: ...I heard about Niko and Adele. L'Arc: ............ Elena: If you feel like crying, cry, L'Arc. There's nothing to be ashamed of. Those two were good friends of yours... I know that. L'Arc: Mom... Elena: Whatever you wind up doing, you have to make sure you never bring them any shame. That's the job of the living. L'Arc: But what if, in doing that, I never see you again? Elena: If that's the path you truly believe in, there's nothing I can do to stop you. Rex lived his life the same way... L'Arc: You're a really strong person, Mom. You know that? Elena: I am. All mothers are... We have to be! So live your life to its fullest, L'Arc. And don't worry about me. L'Arc: ...Okay. Elena: Oh, and Ryfia was really worried about you. You should go talk to her. (Elena leaves. L'Arc exits the school and searches the city for Ryfia. Along the way, he runs into his other party members. First, he finds Cecille nearby the school) Cecille: Ah, sorry... I was daydreaming. L'Arc: ...That's rare. Cecille: What's that supposed to mean?! I think about stuff sometimes too, you know! A lot of stuff has happened recently so there's plenty to think about. L'Arc: Yeah, you're right. Sorry. Cecille: Hey, L'Arc... Everybody's gonna be able to come back together, right? I won't have to lose anyone again... like Dynos... will I? L'Arc: Of course not! Justice is gonna prevail isn't it? Cecille: Justice... I had to kill my own brother... Is that justice? L'Arc: Well, you weren't claiming justice for the sole reason of killing your brother were you? Cecille: Well, no but... I wanted to be a hero but I couldn't even save my own brother... I'm no good at all... I bet my dad knew I was like this all along. That's probably why he didn't train me like he did Dynos... But then Dynos went through a lot of hard times too... L'Arc: Hey, when it rains, it pours you know. Cecille: *sniffle* ... L'Arc: But, you really helped us, you know? If it wasn't for you, we never would've made it this far! You've also gotta think about that too! It's just not like you to not be fighting for the side of justice. Cecille: You're right! The Just Hero Cecille will one day become a legendary hero. ...Like that? L'Arc: Yeah, that's the spirit! Keep that up until it's all said and done. Cecille: Okay! (Next, L'Arc finds Rastan in front of the lifts to the Fountain Square) Rastan: Are you ready? L'Arc: For what? Rastan: You were pondering something deeply, weren't you? L'Arc: Oh... Yeah, but I've decided now. Rastan: I see... Well, you sure have gotten a lot stronger since I first met you. L'Arc: Really? Rastan: Yeah, you have. L'Arc: ............ So what are you going to do when this fight is over? Rastan: What do you mean? L'Arc: Well, even if you have woken up, you can still go back to sleep right? Rastan: ...I haven't thought about it. L'Arc: You should think about yourself sometimes too, you know? And besides, I already forgave you a long time ago now. Rastan: L'Arc... L'Arc: I did, before I even knew it really. So please, just live your life however you want to. Rastan: ...Thank you. (L'Arc heads to the Fountain Square and speaks to Serge in front of the fountain) Serge: Huh? Why the serious face? L'Arc: I need to ask you something... Serge: What? L'Arc: Serge, remember you said how you can get along with me because of your trust in my dad, right? Serge: Man, you still remember that? L'Arc: ...Well, what about now? Serge: Huh? L'Arc: Is that still true now? Serge: What are you talking about? I thought you were gonna ask me something important... L'Arc: I just wanted to know if I was ever able to make you actually believe in me? Serge: You don't know the answer to that yourself? L'Arc: Hey, that's why I'm asking you! Serge: ...All right. I guess I'll tell you everything when all this is over, including how much Rex used to talk about you all the time. L'Arc: But when all this is over... Serge: Huh? Is there a problem with that? L'Arc: ...No, it's fine. That's good enough. Serge: L'Arc... I will tell you one thing now. Trust is not something you can just put into words. Trust that's easily put into words isn't really trust at all in my book. L'Arc: Serge... Serge: Just... don't think I stuck by you until the end on a whim. L'Arc: Okay... Thanks, Serge. (L'Arc leaves) Serge: *sigh* I shouldn't have said anything... Ah well... (L'Arc meets up with Leslie in the Port Zone, nearby its entrance) Leslie: Hm? What's wrong? L'Arc: Nothing... I was just wondering where everyone was. Leslie: Everyone? Are you sure you're not just thinking about Ryfia? L'Arc: Did anyone even say that?! No! Leslie: Aww, you always get so defensive like that... Just like him... L'Arc: Just like him? Who? Leslie: Teehee... Someone I loved more than anyone else on this planet. L'Arc: ...Huh...? Leslie: He turned me down though... Heh. He must have pretty poor taste in women to turn down somebody this cute, though don't you think? L'Arc: Ah, umm... Well, I don't know... Leslie: ...I'm just kidding. He knew exactly what he was looking for. The woman he chose is the best woman in the world. Unfortunately, I come in at number two. L'Arc: Hey, but to somebody out there, you're number one! Leslie: ...You know, you're nice at the weirdest times! L'Arc: Hey come on, don't treat me like a little kid. Leslie: Hehe, sorry! Now go on and go see your number one girl. I know you want to. Then once she cheers you up let's go see that stone that calls itself a god shall we? L'Arc: I told you, she's not my number one girl or anything like that! (L'Arc walks away) Leslie: Once this fight is over and I settle some things, maybe my number one guy will change too. ...Douglas... (Finally, L'Arc walks up the nearby stairs in the Port Zone to the balcony and finds Ryfia looking out to sea) L'Arc: Oh, there you are! Ryfia: L'Arc! Are you feeling better? L'Arc: Yeah. Sorry if I... made you worry. Ryfia: Nah... L'Arc: So, what are you up to? Ryfia: I was just looking at the ocean. The crystallization didn't make it here. L'Arc: Yeah, looks like it. Ryfia: I bet it's because Alf defeated Real for us. L'Arc: (Laughing) Defeated? Isn't it just a gemstone? I think "destroyed" would make more sense, but whatever... Ryfia: Yeah, I guess you're right. L'Arc: Yeah, but isn't it weird? Who would've thought a god could be a rock? Ryfia: I guess people back then were pretty lonely. L'Arc: Huh? Ryfia: I think they made the gods because they wanted companionship. L'Arc: I think they were just lazy. They got tired of thinking for themselves, so they put their futures into the hands of gods. Ryfia: L'Arc, do you hate the gods? L'Arc: Yeah... I guess so... I just want to decide my own fate. Ryfia: I... think it's kind of sad really... L'Arc: Sad? Ryfia: Doing something you think is right, but hurting people in the process. Just like I did... L'Arc: Ryfia... Ryfia: I hurt a lot of people without even knowing what I was really doing. L'Arc, even you... L'Arc: I know... It's fine though. Ryfia: I hurt a lot of people... but in the end I am still really happy. L'Arc: Happy? Why? Ryfia: Because I met you. L'Arc: ! Ryfia: I... I really like you. L'Arc: ...Because I'm the Child of Eesa. Ryfia: Because you're L'Arc! L'Arc: ! Ryfia: ...There you have it. L'Arc: Ah, hey... Ryfia: Shh... Don't say anything. It's okay. (L'Arc stands there, dumbstruck. Ryfia starts to leave) Ryfia: Say, L'Arc... Maybe we should get ready to go now? (Ryfia goes) L'Arc: Oh... yeah. (The party reunites in front of Zamuel's school) Rastan: I guess we'll finally be heading for the Holy Land of Noire soon. Leslie: Yeah, we finally get to see Eesa for ourselves! Cecille: And if Eesa doesn't want to listen to us, I'll give it a taste of my fist of justice! Serge: All that violence, you know, you're sounding more like a villain than a hero! Cecille: Hmph! Ryfia: L'Arc... This is definitely going to be our final battle. L'Arc: Yeah. I'm gonna make sure of that. Are you with me, everyone? Leslie: Hehe... I don't think there's any turning back now. Rastan: Let's finish what we started! L'Arc: All right. It looks like we're headed for the Holy Land of Noire! (The party leaves Diamant and flies off towards the Holy Land in the crystal continent) [----------------------------------] [The Holy Land of Noire-------(HLN)] [----------------------------------] (The party flies into the giant stone hanging over the crystal continent and enters the Holy Land of Noire. Colorful, celestial objects are abundant in the area. The party walks up the nearby blue staircase and encounters Luze at the top, floating in front of a purple pentagram on the floor. She turns around and speaks to them, her voice echoing) Luze: L'Arc... I've been waiting for you. L'Arc: Just as I thought... I figured we'd meet again. Luze: I believe the Eesa's Factor inside you willed it. L'Arc: So you must be... Eesa, the Singing Stone. Am I right? Ryfia: Luze is the Singing Stone...? Cecille: No way! See for yourself, Luze is human! Luze: Well the truth is... I am both. I am a fragment of the core from the center of the Holy Land. L'Arc, the Child of Eesa... I have been waiting for you for a long time. Child of Eesa, which of the two Laws will you present to me? Please, tell me your choice. L'Arc: My choice... is this. (He holds up the Purity Program) Luze: What is that..? L'Arc: It's a Hozone Purity Program. With this Law, we can save the world for the Divine Race and the Common Race. Luze: You mean, by purifying the Hozone? L'Arc: Yes. But it won't be quick or easy. Decades... no, it may take centuries. To maintain control of the Code required for the survival of both Races... I'll need... Eesa's power. If you really are Eesa, then let us use that power. Luze: L'Arc, our purpose is to compose a Law and present it to the world. You may have Eesa's Factor within you, but you are not a god. Ryfia: Eesa, if you are a god then you must know of some better Law. Luze: Yes. This image you see before you is meant to guide the world to make an even better Law. Imaginal and Real always created better Laws and presented them to me. Leslie: Yeah, but don't you see? Both of their Laws always required some sort of sacrifice. Luze: ...There is always a sacrifice. Sad, but true. Cecille: What about L'Arc's Law? If we neutralize the Hozone... Luze: L'Arc's Law also has a sacrifice. The Hozone itself. Serge: You want the Hozone to stay as it is, too? Luze: No, I just want everything to be in balance. Getting here required you to sacrifice many lives on the way. The earth, plants, water, wind, sky, Ray, Hozone, and even Imaginal and Real. Imaginal and Real's Laws treat all those things on even terms. L'Arc: I see... gods must be impartial. It's your duty. Well then, my duty... is to destroy the core! Luze: But... why? You haven't even inherited Meridia's Factor... Serge: Meridia's Factor??? What is she talking about now? Luze: To destroy the core would be the same as killing me. L'Arc: But... I want to save the Divine and Common Races! And so.. I can't back down! Luze: Humans are all alike. They only say and do what is convenient for them. And yet, humans made me into a god. Now you will witness that power (Luze begins to emit waves of energy, which the party struggles against) Rastan: Wow! Is this the true Eesa here? L'Arc: Grr... Then I'll use my Rogress! Luze: It's no use! This is my domain! Under my rule the Rogress are powerless! Ryfia: Look out! (The party battles Luze, but becomes quickly overwhelmed) L'Arc: ...Urgh... Grr...! Ryfia: She's so powerful... Luze: L'Arc, think about this one more time and present one of the Laws to me. I will be waiting for you at the end of the path to Eesa. (Luze releases a large amount of energy) L'Arc: Arghhhhhhhhhh! (L'Arc is transported to a different area of the Holy Land, known as the Halls of Chaos) L'Arc: Ungh... Where... am I? (L'Arc looks around, but none of his friends can be seen) L'Arc: Ryfia! Everybody? Are you there? ...I guess we got split up. I'd better start looking for them. (L'Arc searches the area. Along the way, a hologram of Luze appears above him and speaks) Luze: Only the strong survive. The battle of the two Laws is survival of the fittest. You should know that, L'Arc. L'Arc: Luze?! Where are you...? (Luze disappears) ???: L'Arc! Look out! Behind you! L'Arc: What the?! (Ryfia arrives just as a dragon monster appears and attacks L'Arc. He defeats the enemy, but more of them keep coming) Ryfia: I won't let you hurt L'Arc! L'Arc: Ryfia! You're okay! Ryfia: L'Arc, we can talk after we get rid of these guys! L'Arc: Okay, let's do this! (The duo defeats all of the dragons) Ryfia: Thank goodness... I didn't know what to do when we got split up. L'Arc: I wonder where everybody else is...? Ryfia: I don't know. I walked down the only path I saw, and then I found you here. L'Arc: Hmm... Everybody's probably still separated... Ryfia: Yes... but where are we anyway...? (Simmah speaks) Simmah: Child of Eesa... L'Arc: Simmah?! Ryfia: Father... Simmah: Eesa's domain is up ahead. Without our seals you will not be able to proceed. L'Arc: Seals? Rogress seals? Simmah: ...You will understand in time. For now you must proceed. L'Arc: Okay then, on we go I guess. Ryfia: All right. Hopefully we can find everyone soon. (The duo reaches the center of the room and finds a pentagram on the far end of a walkway. They use it to teleport to another area called the Foyer of Ruins. When they reach the end of this area, a red barrier appears, trapping them) Ryfia: What the...?! L'Arc: Whaaa! Is this a trap...?! Ryfia: It's no use... We've been locked in! (The Rogress Girtab speaks to them) Girtab: Child of Eesa. L'Arc: Girtab...? Girtab: Our seals will guide you to Eesa... (Two Dragon Gems appear from L'Arc's body and surround the barrier) L'Arc: Girtab, Absin... Girtab: Eesa's domain is up ahead. My Logos of Ruling... Absin: ...and my Logos of Judgment will guide you. (The Dragon Gems remove the barrier, causing them to vanish in the process) Ryfia: The trap's gone... L'Arc: But so are my Dragon Gems! I guess I have to trade in my Rogress to open up the path as we go along. (L'Arc and Ryfia continue to the pentagram, which takes them to the Halls of Puzzle. They head to the top of this area) Cecille: L'Arc! (Cecille appears and runs to them) L'Arc: Cecille! I'm glad to see you're okay. Cecille: Of course I'm okay! A hero like me doesn't go down that easily! L'Arc: Hey, that's the Cecille I know! Cecille: Hehe! So where are we? Have you found out anything yet? L'Arc: Well, this is the Holy Land of Noire, but other than that, I have no clue. Cecille: ...Ah, well. I guess we have to look for everybody else, first of all. Ryfia: Cecille... are you okay? Cecille: Why do you ask that? Ryfia: Your eyes are red... I just thought maybe you'd been crying... L'Arc: ...Oh, yeah, they are. Cecille: H-Heroes don't cry! It's just... allergies! Yeah, allergies! Ha Ha Ha! (The trio reaches the end of the Halls of Puzzle and teleports to the Foyer of Ally. Each new area in the Holy Land also houses different monsters for them to fight. Upon walking up another set of stairs, they trigger a mechanism that creates a red, pyramid-shaped barrier around them) Cecille: Whoaaaa! What's this? Ryfia: It's just like before... (Banchu speaks) Banchu: Child of Eesa... L'Arc: Banchu...? Banchu: Our seals will guide you to Eesa... (Two more Dragon Gems float out of L'Arc) L'Arc: Banchu, Rufunga... Banchu: Eesa's domain is up ahead. My Logos of Protection... Rufunga: ...and my Logos of Purity will guide you. (The barrier is disabled, and the Dragon Gems disappear) Cecille: L'Arc...! L'Arc: It's okay. So that makes four Rogress seals so far. I guess we have to use all nine before we can get to Eesa. Ryfia: ............ (The trio reaches the top of the room and teleports to the Halls of Distrust. In the center of this area, they find Rastan battling some monsters) Cecille: Rastan! Ryfia: Oh no! He's being attacked! L'Arc: Rastan, hold on! We'll help you! (The party defeats the monsters) Rastan: Sorry for the trouble. Ryfia: It's okay. We're friends. We're supposed to help each other! Cecille: She's right. You're getting older now Rastan. It's time to let some of the younger soldiers take over. Rastan: I'm not that old yet... By the way, where are Serge and Leslie? L'Arc: We haven't found them yet. Those two can take care of themselves, but we should try to find them anyway. Rastan: I agree. Let's go! (The party teleports out of this area and into the Foyer of Loyalty. They appear on a small platform with no walkways or stairs extending from it. An orange-colored energy orb floats above the bottomless chasm in front of them. On the other side, they see Leslie standing on a larger platform) Leslie: L'Arc! L'Arc: Leslie! We were looking all over for you! Leslie: Hey, that's my line! Ryfia: Leslie, I don't see any kind of path over there... Leslie: Yeah I know, we're stuck. L'Arc: I wonder if this is some kind of trap too...? (Papirusagu speaks) Papirusagu: Child of Eesa... L'Arc: Papirusagu...? Papirusagu: My seal will guide you to Eesa... (His Dragon Gem floats out of L'Arc) Papirusagu: Let my Logos of Imperial Majesty show you the way... (The Dragon Gem and orange orb disappear, creating a green bridge in their place. Leslie walks across it and reunites with the party) Leslie: It feels like I'm in some kind of adventure novel or something! By the way, where is that stupid magic user? L'Arc: Serge? I guess he's the only one we haven't found yet. Rastan: I think he can take care of himself. Cecille: Yeah, we shouldn't worry about him. Ryfia: You guys are so mean! He's our friend! How can you not worry about him? L'Arc: Heh. Worrying is just a waste of time. (The party crosses the bridge and comes to another dead end on the platform Leslie was on, with another orange orb hovering over the chasm. Squill speaks) Squill: My seal will guide you to Eesa... Let my Logos of Surging show you the way... (Squill gets rid of the orb and disappears along with it. A blue bridge is created, which extends from halfway across the chasm to the platform on the other side) L'Arc: Only three more to go... Ryfia: Well, Serge isn't here either. Leslie: That guy's always causing trouble! (The party walks up the nearby staircases and finds another orange orb floating over a pit. Urgula speaks) Urgula: My seal will guide you to Eesa... Let my Logos of Valor show you the way... (Urgula disappears with the orb. A red bridge is created, which connects to the blue bridge and forms a complete path across the chasm) L'Arc: Only two more to go... What the heck is Serge doing? Rastan: ...I'm actually starting to worry a little now. Cecille: He's supposed to be a legendary mercenary... What is he up to? (The party walks across the completed bridge and continues on. At the bottom of the area, they come to yet another dead end with an orange orb. Gula speaks) Gula: My seal will guide you to Eesa... Let my Logos of Integrity show you the way... (The orb disappears, along with Gula. A yellow bridge is created at the very top of the area, connecting the platform where Urgula was summoned to the exit) Ryfia: Maybe Serge is down this way... L'Arc: You don't think he was kicked out of the Holy Land entirely, do you? Cecille: Well, he CAN be pretty annoying... You never know. Leslie: Nobody's got any love for Serge today, I see. Rastan: Serge... (The party heads across the yellow bridge and teleports out of the Foyer of Loyalty. They appear in the Halls of Neglect, and proceed to make it to the end of this area as well. The next place they teleport to is the Foyer of Past, where they finally reunite with Serge at the top) L'Arc: Finally... Serge: What? Aren't you guys happy to see me? Your idol, the magnificent Serge is here again! You should be jumping around yelling and stuff! Rastan: ...I knew we shouldn't have wasted our time worrying! Ryfia: Serge! Are you okay? (She begins to walk over to him) Serge: Whoa Ryfia, hold on! Ryfia: Huh? (A pulse of energy occurs in front of Serge) Serge: There's an invisible wall in front of me. That's why I haven't been able to go anywhere! (Simmah speaks again) Simmah: My seal will guide you to Eesa... Let my Logos of Deliverance break the seal and show you the way... (A bright light shines) Simmah: Please... take care of my daughter, Ryfia... (The invisible wall is gone, along with Simmah) L'Arc: Simmah... Ryfia: Did my father say something? L'Arc: He just told me to take care of you... Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc: Ryfia... Serge: Sorry to break up the moment, but I AM back in the group now, just so you know! Leslie: Welcome back, old man! Try not to get lost again! Serge: Hey! Watch it, violent femme! Leslie: You really want me to live up to that name? Cecille: Grow up you two! Come on, let's get going! Rastan: ... (The party teleports out of the Foyer of Past and into the Eternal Cross area. A gold statue hovers in the center of the room) -IF L'ARC HAS NOT BONDED WITH ALLUL IN RESOLVENT ICEBERG- (The party meets with Allul, the woman formerly known as Saura, in front of the statue) -IF L'ARC BONDED WITH ALLUL IN RESOLVENT ICEBERG- (When the party reaches the statue, a flash of light occurs, causing Allul's Dragon Gem to appear and float in front of the statue) L'Arc: Look at Allul's Dragon Gem...! (Allul appears in the gem's place) -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Allul: So you've finally made it this far... L'Arc: Allul... Allul: In order to cleanse all the Hozone from this world... We turned ourselves into special creatures called Rogress that can convert Hozone into Ray. Ryfia: That was 1000 years ago, right? Allul: Yes. All was just as Eesa the Singing Stone had revealed. That should have saved the future. But... I had no idea things would turn out like this. L'Arc: You turned the Singing Stone into a god because you thought that was the right thing to do? Allul: ...Of course. But we did have some hesitation. We thought it may be irresponsible to leave the question of our survival up to something else. Ryfia: Right. People should be responsible for their own actions. Allul: My comrades all empathized with your decision. Then they too decided... to lend you their power. (Allul summons all the Rogress gems L'Arc had lost along the way) Ryfia: The Dragon Gem...! Allul: Now go with them. You have their power now too. (Allul returns the Rogress to L'Arc) -IF L'ARC HAS NOT BONDED WITH ALLUL IN RESOLVENT ICEBERG- Ryfia: Will you not come with us too? Allul: I can empathize with your decision, but my heart is with Eesa. I will watch your battle from here. (Allul transforms into her Rogress state and flies away) -IF L'ARC WITH ALLUL IN RESOLVENT ICEBERG- Allul: Of course... I will also go along with you. L'Arc: ...Thank you. (Allul returns to L'Arc's body) -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Rastan: So Eesa must be just ahead... Serge: I've been a mercenary for a long time, but I never thought I'd end up fighting a god! Leslie: Remember, it's just some rock. Don't forget that! Cecille: Right, and while we may have lost earlier... Ryfia: This time we have the Rogress and they said they'd help us... L'Arc: Okay. Let's finish this! (The party walks up the stairs behind the statue to the final transportation pentagram, this particular one being bigger and more colorful than the others. A large, circular portal rages in the distance) L'Arc: This sensation... There's no mistake. Luze is up ahead! We can't turn back now. This is our final battle! [-------------------------------] [Final Boss & Ending-------(FBE)] [-------------------------------] (The party teleports to the Hall of Choosing, which houses the core of the Singing Stone, Eesa, as well as the entire Holy Land of Noire. The room is surrounded by a yellow, grid-like dome, with what appears to be outer space serving as its background. The party makes their way to the end of the hall and confronts Luze, who's been waiting for them in front of the core's gemstone) Luze: ...the Child of Eesa, I will ask you only once more. Which one of the two Laws are you going to choose? L'Arc: My answer is still the same. Luze: Then in that case, so is mine. L'Arc: So be it... Then your core is history! Luze: If you destroy me, you'll lose your god, the one your people created long ago... How do you propose the people live in a world with no gods? Rastan: Before you existed, were there any gods here on this planet? Luze: Well... I don't know... Cecille: If there weren't, then the answer is simple! We'll go back to living like they did. Luze: ...People welcomed me as a god because without gods... There was nothing but war, destruction, chaos, and despair... Do you dare walk down that path again!?! Leslie: Well, that's not necessarily true. Human beings aren't all the same you know! Serge: Even if that's our fate, we chose it, and we'll have to take responsibility. That's better than living by some stupid Law that makes no sense! L'Arc: Instead of having our fates decided by some god and two Laws... ...And even though it may lead us to darkness, we want a future with infinite possibilities! Where our own choices determine our future! That's being alive! (Luze looks shocked) Luze: Is this... an omen...? If this is The Third Law that I saw in the Meridian Factor... Why have I ever even existed...??? Ryfia: People forgot how to think for themselves and looked to you for answers. We can't let that happen again. From now on, let humans decide their own futures! Luze: ...Never! Not until a Law has been chosen! You must pick one! Cecille: In that case, we'll have to fight again... But this time we'll win! Luze: (Smiling) So how do you propose to win this time? (The party prepares for battle) L'Arc: This time it's different. Now we have the power of the Rogress on our side! Get ready! (The party fights Luze, who uses the power of the core to her advantage. They manage to hold their own against her, but become more winded as the battle continues) L'Arc: Urgh... She's so strong... Luze: Those Rogress don't belong to you... I'm taking them back! (Luze holds out her left hand and emits a blinking blue light that paralyzes the party with purple electricity. She uses her other hand to extract all of the Rogress' Dragon Gems from L'Arc's body and pull them towards her) Ryfia: The Rogress...! Luze: Even when separated, they still exist as part of me. Now I'll have their power too! Alf: Not so fast! (Alf runs up from behind the party, jumps into the air, and slashes at Luze. She dodges the attack, but the Rogress have been released from her grasp. Alf goes to attack her again while the Rogress return to L'Arc's hand. He absorbs them and glows as Alf is pushed back from Luze) L'Arc: Alf! Alf: (Struggling) ...Looks like I made it just in time. Luze: This is... human will. The future sought after by Meridia for 1000 years! (She begins to glow and rise into the air) Luze: Then I will fight with all my strength! ...For all that I have done! (With a flash of light, Luze reveals her true form: the winged, multi-colored god, Eesa. As each party member speaks, they ready their weapons and prepare for battle) Serge: All right L'Arc, she's serious now! We've gotta step it up too! Rastan: You must defeat Eesa to create a future for both the Races! Let's finish this now! Leslie: (Laughs) She's no god. She's just a rock! Wooo! No way am I losing to a rock! Cecille: Justice prevail! Justice will prevail! You can't claim justice unless you win, right? Ryfia: L'Arc, let's do it. Let's put our futures back into our own hands! L'Arc: Okay everyone, let's go! (With the assistance of Alf, the party defeats Eesa once and for all) Eesa: I wanted to be recognized as a god and the people accepted that. I was filled with joy. Because the life born on this planet accepted me. But with the Dragon Descent everything changed. Cecille: The legendary Dragon Descent... Eesa: King Meridia started an uprising accusing me of being a false god. He made the Skywalks crash to earth in an attempt to kill me... As a result, the world was polluted with Hozone and the Common Race was born. Alf: King Meridia was our country's first emperor, right? Eesa: Why would someone start a revolt against me... When all I had done was select better Laws to help guide the people? Perhaps my own existence was my downfall. That is when I realized that I was unable to choose the best Laws. Ryfia: Is that the reason you went to sleep? Eesa: Yes... I became unable to trust my own decisions... I relied on the Meridian bloodline as they were the ones who fought against me. If they tried to kill me, maybe they'd select a Law with their own logic... I guess the results were inevitable. Ryfia: If you would just accept L'Arc's Law then we wouldn't have to go through this! Eesa: No. The future you seek has no place for any gods. L'Arc: Ah, now I understand... We never really had any choice but to kill you. Even if you had accepted my Law, we'd still be right where we are now. Eesa: Yes. The Eesa System was already crumbling... since the moment I began to question myself. I had always realized it, but I just pretended like I hadn't. I was afraid that I would cease to exist if I did. (Eesa's body starts to shine a bright light) Eesa: My core is going to be destroyed. I understand your wish, L'Arc. My core will be gone, but my body will grant you the power you need. Now go to the Hall of Eesa, the heart of all the Holy Land of Noire. (The party is teleported out of the Hall of Choosing) Eesa: This is... the right choice. Isn't it Allul? (Eesa fades away. The bright red stone embedded in the center of the core ceases to shine and vanishes, with the yellow dome surrounding the room following suit. The party stands in the Hall of Eesa, a void that contains of a yellow bridge that leads to a circular blue platform. Everyone besides L'Arc starts walking to the bridge) L'Arc: Thank you... all of you. I mean it. Cecille: Okay... What is it now? L'Arc: Listen. Without Eesa's core we won't be able to neutralize the Hozone. Leslie: What do you mean? Sonia said we could, though... L'Arc: We need something in its place. Someone with the Eesa Factor has to stay here and act as the core. Ryfia: What are you saying, stay and act as the core?! L'Arc: I'm saying... that now, I have to say goodbye. Serge: So that's it, huh?! That's what Sonia had to tell you in private! Why didn't you tell us?! I thought we were your friends! Alf: L'Arc... you can't do this. L'Arc: Ah come on now, there's no need to be like that... It's not like I'm going to die. I'll just be sleeping, like the Divine Race. And besides... I could sure use the rest. Alf: But that means you'll never see any of us ever again! L'Arc: ...Alf, take care of the Empire, willya? Remember, my mom lives there. Alf: ...L'Arc... I understand. I promise it'll be in good shape when you wake up. Leslie: And I'll change the Republic for the better... with Shelly, of course. Check that out too when you wake up! Serge: I'll probably just be buried in the annals of history. But if you don't see anything written about me, I guess I lived a peaceful life. Cecille: I think I'll go back to sleep when this is over. Then you can see that I'll grow into a beautiful hero! (Cecille spins and poses) Rastan: I think I'll live out my life in this generation. And besides, you don't need me to protect you at all anymore. (Ryfia looks away) Ryfia: ............ (L'Arc puts his hand on her shoulder) L'Arc: Ryfia, I'm sorry. Ryfia: L'Arc... (L'Arc crosses the bridge over to the circular platform and stands in the center. Ryfia watches him go with a saddened look of anticipation on her face. L'Arc rises into the air and becomes enveloped in a blue sphere that outstretches his arms and legs. The platform lights up, releasing a wave of energy that erects a barrier around L'Arc and reilluminates the background, signifying that the Singing Stone is in operation once again) Ryfia: I'll... I'll wait for you, L'Arc. I'll be waiting for you in the future! (The screen fades to black and the credits begin to roll. Several scenes from the game are shown as the song "Crepusular rays ~ tenshi no hashigo ~" by Yui Makino plays. Near the end of the credits, images of L'Arc's party members start to appear and speak to him) Cecille: Hellooooooo! L'Arc, it's time to get up! Wake up wake up wake up! L'Arc: ...Huh? Rastan: We all left messages for you for when you wake up. Serge: We didn't want you to feel lonely you know... Pretty sweet wake-up call don't you think? Leslie: According to Sonia's calculations you'll probably be waking up 500 years from now. Serge: Things are crazy since you've gone to sleep, but Alf's been working real hard. I think the Empire will be a much better place the next time you see it. Rastan: We're doing everything we can to support him. Cecille: Of course, I'll be going back to sleep myself in five years. Leslie: As long as there's hope, people can always move forward. We'll do our best to live on until the big day arrives. L'Arc: You guys... Cecille: So don't worry! You won't be all alone when you finally do wake up! Leslie: Even if it isn't us, somebody that carries on our legacy will be there to greet you. Rastan: In 500 years, you'll be entrusted with the world. Serge: ...We're almost out of time. See ya around L'Arc... You were the best friend I could have ever asked for. Cecille: Bye byeeeeee! See you in the future! Leslie: Don't forget about me! Rastan: Farewell L'Arc. I'll always be proud of the time I spent with you. L'Arc: ...What about Ryfia... Where's Ryfia? (In the future, L'Arc wakes up and falls out of the blue sphere he was enclosed in, which disappears immediately afterwards) L'Arc: I can't believe she didn't even leave me a message...! Did she forget about me...? (L'Arc gets up) Ryfia: I never forgot about you. (L'Arc sees Ryfia standing near the center of the platform) Ryfia: Good morning L'Arc. L'Arc: Ryfia...! (L'Arc tries to walk over to her, but he stumbles and falls into Ryfia's arms) Ryfia: Didn't I tell you? I said I'd be waiting. (The two of them embrace each other) L'Arc: I... finally realized something. I'm so stupid... It took me 500 years, but I figured it out... Now, I'm never gonna let you go. Ryfia: L'Arc... (Sunlight enters the room from cracks in the ceiling on the other side of the hall. L'Arc and Ryfia look in its direction) L'Arc: So Ryfia, shall we? Let's go back... to the world we fought to protect. (L'Arc and Ryfia walk across the bridge and into the light) Fin. _______________________________________________________________________________ -------- [Extras] -------- [--------------------------] [Mandatory Rogress----(MRG)] [--------------------------] These are the four Rogress dungeons that can be visited as part of the game's main storyline. [--------------------] [General Dialogue----] [--------------------] This is dialogue that appears regardless of which dungeon is chosen during specific points in the story. Use this section in conjunction with the other Rogress dungeon transcriptions. I've marked each dialogue occurrence with a unique header that will be placed in the Rogress dungeon transcriptions, informing you that dialogue written in General Dialogue is about to occur. -First Dungeon Dialogue- [ARGUEMENT_1] Cecille: ...What are you trying to say?! Dynos: Ha hah! Isn't it obvious, my sister? I'm talking about you and our father! You tried to make them your puppets to fight against me! Cecille: ...Puppets? You were supposed to take over the dojo. Our family needed you! I was the only expendable one in the whole family! Ryfia: Cecille! Stop! Calm down...! Adele: Oh, dear. Ryfia, why do you have to spoil the fun? They hate each other. You should let them fight. Ryfia: Why do you say that, Adele?! Adele: Heh heh! Why? Because I want to kill you all! L'Arc: Adele...! Adele: ...My beloved L'Arc. L'Arc: !!! Adele: Die! (Adele tries to fight L'Arc) Adele: Why won't you fight back?! Alf: Adele! Stop this! - -Second Dungeon Dialogue- [ARGUEMENT_2] L'Arc: Adele. Adele: Hmm? Come to die, have you? L'Arc: Thanks for helping in Opalus. Adele: !!! Why would you say that...? Is it because I'm like a sister to you? L'Arc: ... Adele: You were always so strict with me. When I found out Zamuel wasn't really my grandfather... You lashed out at me, saying "crying isn't going to change the truth." L'Arc: I'm sorry. We were children. Adele: No! I was happy, L'Arc! Alf: Adele...... Adele: I remember how angry you were! Finally, you told me... "Nothing has really changed." (A flashback to L'Arc and Adele's younger days takes place. The voice of a young L'Arc talking to Adele is heard) Young L'Arc: Stop being a crybaby! Nothing's really changed. Everything else is still the same. Zamuel's still your Grampa, and I'm still your friend. It doesn't matter whose daughter or granddaughter you are. Nothing will change. (The flashback ends) Adele: Those words made me so happy. -IF BOTH PARTIES ARE IN ELLGODE VOLCANO OR SOLITON CAVES- Adele: Everyone treated me like this fragile heirloom, but you didn't. -IF BOTH PARTIES ARE IN ZEIFELLT HOLY TOWER OR RUINS OF HILBERT- Adele: Everyone else was so careful with me, but you were different. -CONTINUE- L'Arc: Adele... Then why are you fighting us? Alf: That's your fault! Why do you continue to follow Imaginal's Law? When you throw away that Law, then we can be together again. Ryfia: But your Real's Law will crystallize the entire world. Alf: That's true. But as the Child of Eesa, I will stop the crystallization. I need Rogress to do that. L'Arc, you must believe me. Adele: You're wasting your breath. L'Arc has been fooled by Ryfia. Now he's just Imaginal's puppet. Ryfia: ... - [CLYDE_EXIT_2] Clyde: ...I find Sir Alf's plan to be foolhardy at best. His idea of creating a paradise out of this world is just as ridiculous. Cecille: What's Prince Alf trying to accomplish? Serge: Apparently he made a pact with Real to save the world from crystallization. He said something about making people follow Real's plan. L'Arc: What's wrong with that? Clyde: Real's Law preaches a return to nature. That doesn't necessarily mean things will be better for the human race. Rastan: All that glitters is not gold... Clyde: That's why I want you to stop him. If this keeps up, he's going to get hurt. (Clyde leaves) L'Arc: ...I don't know what to do! This makes no sense to me! What do you think, Ryfia? Ryfia: Don't bother asking me. You have to decide for yourself. L'Arc: ...Ryfia? - -Third Dungeon Dialogue- [CLYDE_EXIT_3] Clyde: You remember what we spoke about, right? L'Arc: You asked me to stop Alf. Clyde: Yes. Sir Alf is still preparing to rebel against Sir Weiss. But even if he were to take Sir Weiss' throne, our world is still doomed. L'Arc: How can you be so sure? Alf might be a better ruler. Clyde: Sir Alf wouldn't be ruling. It would be Real. That, I think, would hurt Sir Alf the most. (Clyde leaves) L'Arc: Do you really think Real would be so cruel to people? Leslie: Who knows? Only Adele and Alf have met him in person. Even I don't know what kind of pact they made. - Cecille: Don't bother thinking about things you don't understand. The bigger question is whether you're going to let Prince Alf take all the Rogress or not. L'Arc: Indeed... [-----------------------------------------] [Papirusagu - Zeifellt Holy Tower----(PZT)] [-----------------------------------------] (The party enters Zeifellt Holy Tower) Ryfia: This is where Papirusagu is supposed to be. -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: Wow, that's impressive. From the outside, it looks like it reaches above the clouds. -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Cecille: Huh? There's only about 100 floors. That's hardly above the clouds. L'Arc: 100 floors?! How did they build it? Serge: Who knows? I heard there were towers like this all over the place, once. Cecille: Yep. They were everywhere. Ryfia: They must have blocked out the sky. L'Arc: I'll say. Rastan: Well, you could still see it, but things were pretty cramped. Serge: If you two are used to buildings like this, then they must be from the Era of Loss. It's all very interesting. L'Arc: You like these kind of relics? Serge: I'm interested in the Era of Loss in general. I'm of the, err... intelligentsia. -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: Hah! That's hilarious. (Serge turns toward Niko) Niko: Help me, Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: I wouldn't want to interrupt a lovers' spat! Niko/Serge: We're not lovers! -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- (The party searches the tower for Papirusagu. They enter the Elevator Hall and find two elevators. Cecille examines one of them) Cecille: Hmm. There's no Ray energy coming to this elevator. -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: Won't some magic get it moving? Ryfia: Unlike Ray used for magic, the Ray in machines has to be converted into electricity. Niko: Oh man, even Ryfia knows more than me... -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Rastan: I think the next elevator will work. (L'Arc enters the elevator) L'Arc: It looks like it only goes to the underground levels. Serge: The Rogress wouldn't be underground would it? Surely not in a tower like this...? Rastan: For now, I think it would be a good idea to go down. We might find something worthwhile down there. (The party rides the elevator underground to the Console Floor. While exploring the hallways, they find a device) Cecille: There's no buts about it, this is a Ray console! But it looks broken. Rastan: ...We won't be able to get the other elevator running without this console. Serge: You want us to fix it? One of these parts is twisted. We'll have to scavenge parts from some other switch board. Ryfia: L'Arc, I think I saw a broken switch board back near the entrance. L'Arc: Eh? Ah, yeah. Let's go get it. (The party returns to the Entrance Hall and finds the broken switch board. They gather whatever parts they need) Rastan: Hmm, we should be able to repair the elevator with this. Cecille: Alright! Let's go back and fix it. (They return to the Ray console on the Console Floor and repair it) Rastan: It's a bit of a patch job, but the elevator should work now. Serge: Righto then, time to meet the cute little Puppy! (Serge walks off) Cecille: Puppy? Rastan: The Rogress, Papirusagu. (The party returns to the Elevator Hall and finds Alf's Party in front of elevator that heads upstairs) -IF THIS IS THE FIRST ROGRESS HUNT- Dynos: ...I can't see any corpses I can use... Bah, and this is supposed to be a relic, right? Ah well. I guess I won't be adding any more pawns to my army. Cecille: Dynos! Controlling the dead is abhorrent! Dynos: ...Oh, it's you Cecille! I think it's much less abhorrent than people who make puppets out of living humans. [ARGUEMENT_1] Alf: We will take Papirusagu. L'Arc: Alf! Alf: Adele! Come! Adele: Alf! I demand that you kill L'Arc! Alf: Adele. It is not yet time. Adele: Then...when?! (Alf and Adele enter the elevator) Leslie: Yoo-hoo. Over here! (Leslie points her gun at L'Arc) Leslie: Put down your weapons and stay where you are. And no hymns either! Disobey me and he dies! L'Arc: ...Grr! (Dynos joins Alf and Adele in the elevator) Clyde: ...First Sergeant Lagoon. You are Sir Alf's vassal and friend. I beg you, save him! -IF THIS IS THE SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- (Clyde and Leslie join their party in the elevator. The elevator begins to rise, very slowly, to the top of the tower) Serge: Hmm... It looks like we ended up helping Prince Alf's cause. Niko: Mr... L'Arc... S-S-Sorry... L'Arc: ...No. We were too careless. Cecille: Grr! True heroes never give up! C'mon, hurry up and get after them! Rastan: This kind of elevator is slow. If we hurry, we might be able to get ahead of Alf. Ryfia: Right, let's go. (The party runs upstairs and tries to beat Alf to the Hall of Bonding. On the tenth floor, they find that they can't go any higher) Cecille: Is this the top floor? Serge: I don't think so. It seemed a lot higher from outside. -IF ALF'S PARTY IS AHEAD- L'Arc: Where did Alf and the others go? Rastan: Look at that... (They notice a portal in the middle of the room) L'Arc: What is that? Rastan: It's a type of elevator from the Era of Loss. It'll probably take us right to the top. -IF ALF'S PARTY IS AHEAD- Rastan: It looks like Alf used this to get to the top floor. L'Arc: Oh well, let's use it too. C'mon! (The party uses the antigrav elevator to warp to the top floor) ---IF L'ARC'S PARTY GOT THERE BEFORE ALF'S--- --IF THE PARTY WINS-- --IF THE PARTY LOSES-- ---IF ALF'S PARTY GOT THERE FIRST--- Dynos: Ha ha ha ha! You poor things. Did you take the stairs? Clyde: You're only cheapening Sir Alf by mocking our enemies. Dynos: ...Hmph. Alf: I've bonded with Papirusagu, L'Arc. L'Arc: ............ Leslie: You call that a staredown? That's what happens when you've been friends since childhood... Adele: L'Arc... L'Arc: Adele... Adele: ...I will have your head! Clyde: Adele! Stop! Adele: Let me go! L'Arc is... L'Arc is mine! Ryfia: I won't let you hurt him! Adele: Shut up, you ugly cow! Alf: Adele! Papirusagu doesn't want you to spill blood here. I still believe that L'Arc will choose Real's Law. Adele: ...You're just making excuses! (Adele runs off) Dynos: Lady Adele! (Dynos chases after her) Alf: We're going... (Alf and Clyde leave to join them) Leslie: Better luck with the next Rogress, L'Arc! (Alf and his party all leave) Ryfia: L'Arc...... L'Arc: We should get going too. I'll get the next one, for sure... [----------------------------------] [Banchu - Ruins of Hilbert----(BRH)] [----------------------------------] (The party enters the Ruins of Hilbert) -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: ...I wanna go home! A ghost could jump out on me at any moment! (Rastan takes a few steps forward, which startles Niko) Niko: Mommy...! Rastan: Banchu should be around here... Cecille: This is so exciting! You can't have a heroic adventure without old relics. L'Arc: We're not on a treasure hunt, Cecille. Cecille: Nobody likes a smarty-pants, L'Arc! You'd be more likable if you kept your mouth shut! L'Arc: Gah...! Cecille: Ah! Much better! Ryfia: Yes... I think you're a cutie, too. L'Arc: ............ Serge: You probably shouldn't call guys L'Arc's age "cutie," Ryfia. Ryfia: Why not? Sure, he's mean at times, but he's still a cutie! Serge: Just... drop the "cutie," okay? Ryfia: Why? It's a compliment, isn't it? L'Arc: Oh, man, I wish I could just crawl into a hole... (The party heads into the ruins to find Banchu. Along the way, they discover a humanoid, purple dragon creature) -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: Uwaagh! M-m-m-monster?! Cecille: Niko! Have you forgotten about the Gula Church?! Don't call it a monster! Niko: Help me Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: Hey! Let... Let go of me! (Ryfia approaches the dragon, causing a light to flash) Ryfia: ...Help. L'Arc: Ryfia?! (A woman's image appears next to Ryfia) Ryfia: I arr called... Elza. I dwell in the underground city of Hilbert. Niko: Whaa? Cecille: What's going on? That's Ryfia, isn't it? Ryfia: I'm using this Coder's body to speak with you. Hilbert is filled with the grief of all the people abandoned on the surface. We were transformed by Hozone, but the dry air protected our Code from being destroyed. We have been trapped between life and death for over 1000 years. Help me... Help us all... Serge: I never turn down a beautiful maiden's plea for help. But... how? We will gladly give our lives to save you. You need only tell us how we can help. Rastan: ............ Cecille: Huh? Speak for yourself... Ryfia: The rain of life... rain of death... Us... (Elza's image disappears with another light flash) L'Arc: Hey! Are you alright?! Ryfia: ...I'm fine, really. I think Elza's Code temporarily overcame my own. Serge: Do you think that healing rain might really be a Ray Squall? Ryfia: Yes. I think so. -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: Serge, I have one question. How did you know that half-dragon was beautiful? Serge: A master of love knows all! L'Arc: There's no way a creep like you is the legendary Leon... No way! (Ryfia sings her hymn and purifies the half-dragon, causing it to disappear into the afterlife. A dragon's roar is heard afterwards, with Elza's final words accompanying it) Elza: Ryan's voice...! Please... make sure he... L'Arc: Ryan? Is he the Feldragon we just heard? Ryfia: It sounded like it was coming from that direction. Rastan: Yeah. This Ryan could be a half-dragon too. We should go back to the entrance and check. (The party returns to the first room of the ruins. Another half-dragon ambushes them from behind a crumbled building) L'Arc: Wha... Why is there a mummy here...! Serge: There's no time for questions! Here it comes! (The mummy roars. The party battles it and then knocks it away from them) ???: Oh, you're still alive. Looks like you've gotten stronger, huh? Rastan: So it was you who was controlling the mummy. (Alf's party reveals themselves) Dynos: Such is the magic of Real. Adele: Dynos tells me that if you die, he'll make you his undead slave. I can't wait! -IF THIS IS THE FIRST ROGRESS HUNT- -IF THIS IS THE SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- [ARGUEMENT_2] Adele: ...One more chance, L'Arc! If you choose Real's Law, I will go to your side. I don't care if I'm just a sister to you anymore... (Adele leaves) Alf: I could let you be the Child of Eesa if you join us. Think about it, L'Arc. (Alf leaves) Dynos: ...I follow Lady Adele's will. (Dynos leaves) Leslie: Thanks for Opalus! I have to say, I think either Law sounds like a pack of lies. (Leslie leaves) [CLYDE_EXIT_2] -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Ryfia: I'm going to summon a Ray Squall. (Ryfia purifies the mummy with her hymn) Ryan: Thank... you... Now I can finally... rest in peace. Your kindness will please Banchu... Serge: Maybe Banchu will be pleased too... I wouldn't be surprised if arriving first wasn't enough to bind with Banchu. L'Arc: Eh? Serge: We kids at the Gula Church were always close to Gula. What I'm saying is that there are Rogress who understand human feelings and the notion of kindness. Rastan: Hmm? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you? -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: Oh, you mean spare the rod and spoil the child? Serge: ...Umm, I think you should go back to school. (The party proceeds deeper into the ruins. They find another half-dragon mummy near the edge of a cliff. The woman trapped within uses Ryfia's body to speak to the party) Ryfia: Tom... Where is Tom...? (The woman's image vanishes) Serge: Ryfia, are you okay? Ryfia: I'm fine. Stop fussing over me. L'Arc: ............ -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: Is this thing a Ray Squall too? Cecille: Wha! What is this?! Niko: Save me, Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: It's your fault for disrespecting the dead... Especially the living dead! Rastan: Hmm... About the mummy... I think it would be a good idea to check if it has any children about before purifying it with a Ray Squall. Ryfia: Let's look quickly! (The party knocks down a nearby wall with the Kopin and finds a mummy on the other side. The child within the half-dragon speaks through Ryfia) Ryfia: Mummy... I want my mummy... I can sense she's nearby... mummy... (The child disappears. L'Arc approaches Ryfia) L'Arc: ...Hey Ryfia: ...Leave me alone. I'm fine by myself. I think that Child is Tom. I sensed it when I was overcome by his Code. Cecille: Well then, let's take him to his mother. Niko: We should purify him together with his mother. Rastan: I'll carry him. Serge: Alright. Let's take him to his beautiful mother. L'Arc: ...Are all women beautiful to you? Serge: Of course! Women are the very essence of beauty! L'Arc: You've totally ruined my image of Leon... (The party carries Tom to his mother and Ryfia proceeds to purify the two of them) Mother: Thank you. I have been searching for my son for over 1000 years... Tom: Thanks! I can finally be with mommy. Mother: I thank you for saving us, the abandoned people... Tom: Goodbye... Niko: She said 1000 years, right? So that means this town is from the Era of Loss? Cecille: I remember learning about Hilbert in geography class at school. Rastan: What did she mean by, "abandoned people?" Ryfia: How about you two? You're of the Divine Race. Don't you know? Cecille: I haven't ever heard of them. Rastan: Neither have I. Serge: Let's not worry about it now. We have to find the Rogress. L'Arc: Indeed... (The party continues, eventually reaching the Hall of Bonding. They find both Banchu and Alf's party there, the latter vanishing as soon as they arrive) L'Arc: Alf? Adele?! Ryfia: Banchu! What happened to them...? Banchu: They were blown outside. I sensed that I must speak with you first. Cecille: Were you waiting for us? Banchu: Yes. I didn't think there would be more than one Child of Eesa. I decided that I would lend my power to the Child who saved the people I could not. You have done well, L'Arc... You have saved Hilbert from eternal imprisonment. Serge: See, Niko? That's the golden rule in action, right there. Niko: I gotcha... I think. Banchu: The other Child of Eesa has also saved a people from ruin. Therefore, you must prove your worth with a test of strength! L'Arc: Man, I'm really getting sick of this... (The party battles Banchu) --IF THE PARTY WINS-- Banchu: Well done! Well done indeed! I ask you, Eesa's Child. Do you have need of my power, the Logos of Protection? L'Arc: I sure do! Lend me your Logos. Banchu: No problem. (L'Arc bonds with Banchu) Ryfia: ...Whew! We got him. L'Arc: Yeah... Ryfia: Well, no time to sit around. Let's hurry up and get out of here! --IF THE PARTY LOSES-- Banchu: What a shame! You have the heart, but lack the strength. Farewell. (Banchu blows the party outside the Hall of Bonding. Alf's party returns to the room immediately afterwards. A light flashes at the area L'Arc's party was sent to, and one of the Rogress' Dragon Gems floats in the air in front of them) L'Arc: Huh... What's that? (The gem shines some more, revealing itself to be Simmah's. He speaks to the party) Simmah: I can hear Banchu's voice! He has chosen Alf... Ryfia: ............ Simmah: Hurry, L'Arc! You must get the next Rogress and spread the Law throughout the world. (Simmah disappears) Ryfia: ...I guess I was no good after all. L'Arc: Ryfia? Ryfia: I'm sorry. It's nothing. Let's just get out of here! [---------------------------------] [Urgula - Ellgode Volcano----(UEV)] [---------------------------------] (The party enters Ellgode Volcano) Ryfia: I'm pretty sure this is where Urgula is. Cecille: Hmm... This place feels kinda... desolate. Serge: Don't worry. I'll lighten it up for you. L'Arc: Are you sure you're Leon? You know, the legendary one? -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Cecille: Yeah, you're kind of a disappointment. Serge: You're too kind... Hey, it looks like some kind of toxic gas killed the trees. Niko: T-Toxic gas?! -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- Leslie: ...Why didn't you just keep quiet, L'Arc? You're showing your lack of confidence when you say that. Serge: Um... no comment. Leslie: It looks like the trees have been killed by some kind of toxic gas. Cecille: T-Toxic gas?! -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Ryfia: Are we going to die, too? L'Arc: I don't think so. There's some volcanic gas, but not enough to kill us. We'd already be dead if there was. Cecille: Phew! Do you smell that? Rastan: I suspect it's hydrogen sulfide. I doubt this amount will harm us, but we'd best be careful. Ryfia: Maybe this hy... hy... this stuff made Urgula ill and he left. L'Arc: It wouldn't be much of a Rogress if a little volcanic gas upset it... (The party heads toward the volcano to look for Urgula. Along their search, they stop to rest for a moment) -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: It's so... hot... Cecille: Oh no... Cecille actually agrees with Niko... It's so hot. Niko: What's wrong with agreeing with me? -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- Cecille: Oh... So hot... Leslie: Yuck! I'm all sweaty! -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Serge: It's because of the underground heat. If we want the Rogress, we're gonna have to put up with it. If we sit around moping Alf is going to get ahead of us. Rastan: L'Arc has already bound with (insert number between 2-6 here) Rogress. Let's keep up this pace. Ryfia: ...Right. We have to get the Rogress, so we can at least stop the crystallization. (The party enters the volcano interior) -IF THE PARTY IS AHEAD OF ALF'S PARTY- -IF THE PARTY IS BEHIND ALF'S PARTY- (Alf and his group can be heard) Clyde: Sir Alf! Be careful! Alf: It's okay. If we don't take any risks, then L'Arc will get the Rogress. Ryfia: That voice...! L'Arc: Sounds like Alf and his party... Serge: Old Clyde sounds just as serious as always. Niko: I guess they came here for the Rogress, too. Cecille: Well duh, smarty pants! Rastan: It sounds like they're ahead of us. Rastan: At this rate they'll get to the Rogress before us. Ryfia: You're right. Let's hurry! -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- (The party enters the Hall of Bonding, where Urgula resides) ---IF L'ARC'S PARTY GOT THERE BEFORE ALF'S--- --IF THE PARTY WINS-- --IF THE PARTY LOSES-- ---IF ALF'S PARTY GOT THERE FIRST--- L'Arc: Didn't we make it...? Adele: Sorry, you're too late. A shame, really... If you'd arrived first, the Rogress could have killed you for me and I'd be on my way home with your head. [ARGUEMENT_2] [-------------------------------] [Squill - Soliton Caves----(SSC)] [-------------------------------] (The party enters Soliton Caves) Cecille: Holy smokes! It's beautiful! -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: You're right! Wow! Serge: Ooh, the kids are excited. Me, I'm far too scared to go charging into caves without a map. Niko: Ha ha! You're afraid of some little caves?! Rastan: I'm with Serge. Caves may be pretty, but they can be deadly in a flash. Curiosity killed the cat, as they say. Niko: Eesh... -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- Serge: That Minimal Lady's the most happy-go-lucky girl I know. Me, I'm far too scared to go charging into caves without a map. Rastan: I'm with Serge. Caves may be pretty, but they can be deadly in a flash. Leslie: Oh no! I'm so scared! Rastan: ............ Serge: ...No comment from me, Rastan. Rastan: ............ -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Ryfia: This is where Squill is supposed to be... I wonder if he's as beautiful as these caves... L'Arc: Beautiful?!? It's just a bunch of rocks! Ryfia: But it was all made by nature, wasn't it? It's gorgeous! Nothing man- made could compare to this. L'Arc: Yeah, whatever. Serge: Are you really Rex's son? You have far too little appreciation for art. Ryfia: Oh, that's not true. L'Arc just expresses things the way he sees them. That's a form of art, too. Serge: I think you're probably stretching it a bit there, Ryfia. Cecille: Yeah, her taste in men is just as bad as L'Arc's appreciation for art! -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- Leslie: Good thing Ryfia's into guys like L'Arc. Otherwise he'd be toast. -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- L'Arc: ............ (The party searches the caves for Squill. They come to a downward-leading slope on their way) Serge: Please be careful, ladies. It's slippery here. -IF THIS IS THE FIRST ROGRESS HUNT- (Ryfia walks down the slope) Ryfia: Thank you, Serge. (Cecille follows) Cecille: Kind, kind. -IF THIS IS THE SECOND OR THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- (Cecille walks down the slope) Cecille: Thank you, Serge! So considerate. -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Cecille: We only had callow young men around before Serge joined us. -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: "Callow" ...? You really are ancient! Cecille: L'Arc, Niko is making fun of me! L'Arc: No point asking a callow young man for help. Cecille: Hmph! See if I help you bond with the next Rogress! -IF THIS IS THE SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Serge: C'mon Ryfia, you too. Ryfia: Thank you, Serge. It's okay though. I can make it on my own. (Ryfia walks down the slope) L'Arc: Hey... Are you alright? Ryfia: I'm fine. Don't worry about me. Let's hurry and get to the Rogress. -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- Leslie: You know a lot of old-fashioned words, Cecille. Cecille: Mom used to call dad that all the time. Serge: ...What a heart-wrenching story! L'Arc: Sorry for being so callow. (L'Arc walks Ryfia down the slope) Ryfia: Th-thanks... L'Arc: ...Ah, it was nothing... ...Ryfia. Umm... Ryfia: Yes...? L'Arc: ............ Ryfia: ............ L'Arc: Ryfia... Ryfia: C'mon. We have to hurry, L'Arc! L'Arc: Ah... yeah... -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- (The party reaches the Hall of Bonding and finds Alf's party there) Adele: You're late. But I'm glad you made it. It wouldn't do if you were killed by a monster on the way here. I want to see you die in front of me. -IF THIS IS THE FIRST ROGRESS HUNT- Dynos: Personally, I'd much rather he died straight away. Then I could turn him into my undead slave with Real 's magic. Cecille: Dynos, that's horrible! You can't control the dead like that! Dynos: Oh, is that bad? Wouldn't you agree that it's better than making puppets out of live ones? [ARGUEMENT_1] -IF THIS IS THE SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- [ARGUEMENT_2] -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- Ryfia: Adele...... Adele: Silence! What gives you the right to be with L'Arc?! I... I hope you die! Leslie: Stop it, Adele! As your former companion, I ask that you step away. Alf: I can't allow that. -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Alf: Squill desires to bond with the stronger of us. L'Arc: W-What...? (Squill appears) Squill: I believe in strength. It was not known to me that there was more than one Child of Eesa. I must choose which Child to follow, just as you must choose a Law. Therefore... I will choose the strongest! -IF THIS IS THE FIRST ROGRESS HUNT- Cecille: Sounds fair. A good old-fashioned test of strength! Ryfia: Oh, no. Do we have to fight Adele? -IF THIS IS THE SECOND OR THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- L'Arc: Do you want us to? -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Squill: I will test your strength myself. First, Alf. Attack me with all your power. (Alf's group battles Squill) Squill: Now you, L'Arc. Show me your power! (The party battles Squill) --IF THE BATTLE SATISFIES SQUILL-- Squill: I have decided. My Logos, "Surging," shall be yours, L'Arc. Alf: ...! L'Arc: Thank you. (L'Arc bonds with Squill) -IF THIS IS THE FIRST ROGRESS HUNT- Ryfia: Good job, L'Arc! L'Arc: Yeah... I guess. Adele: Alf! I demand that you kill L'Arc! Alf: Adele. It is not yet time. Adele: Then...when?! (Adele runs off) Alf: Congratulations, L'Arc. The next one's mine, though! (Alf and Dynos leave) Leslie: It must be tough to be so popular. (Leslie leaves) Clyde: ...First Sergeant Lagoon. You are Sir Alf's vassal and friend. I beg you, save him! (Clyde leaves) Rastan: Well anyway... Nice work, L'Arc! L'Arc: Yeah... thanks. -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- Alf: C'mon, Adele. Let's hit the next target! (Alf, Adele and Dynos leave) [CLYDE_EXIT_3] Cecille: No point pondering over things we don't understand. Let's get out of here! It's too cold! Leslie: Hah. Wouldn't do for little girls to catch cold, would it? We're finished here. Let's go. --IF THE BATTLE DOES NOT SATISFY SQUILL-- Squill: I have decided. My Logos, "Surging," shall be yours, Alf. L'Arc: ...! Alf: Thank you! (Alf bonds with Squill) -IF THIS IS THE FIRST ROGRESS HUNT- Ryfia: L'Arc... I'm so sorry we weren't strong enough. L'Arc: No... It was my fault. Adele: Alf! I demand that you kill L'Arc! Alf: Adele. It is not yet time. Adele: Then...when?! (Adele runs off) Alf: Farewell, L'Arc. The next one's mine, too! (Alf and Dynos leave) Leslie: It must be tough to be so popular. (Leslie leaves) Clyde: ...First Sergeant Lagoon. You are Sir Alf's vassal and friend. I beg you, save him! (Clyde leaves) Rastan: Forgive me, L'Arc. I have failed you... L'Arc: Nah. Don't sweat it. -IF THIS IS THE THIRD ROGRESS HUNT- Alf: It's time to go for the next one, Adele. Do you understand? (Alf, Adele and Dynos leave) [CLYDE_EXIT_3] Cecille: No point pondering over things we don't understand. Let's get out of here! It's too cold! Leslie: Hah. Wouldn't do for little girls to catch cold, would it? Let's go, L'Arc. L'Arc: Right. --CONTINUE WITH THE STORY-- -IF THIS IS THE SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Adele: ...One more chance, L'Arc! If you choose Real's Law, I will go to your side. I don't care if I'm just a sister to you anymore... Alf: I could let you be the Child of Eesa if you join us. Think about it, L'Arc. (Alf and Adele leave) Dynos: ...I follow Lady Adele's will. (Dynos leaves) Leslie: Thanks for Opalus! I have to say, I think either Law sounds like a pack of lies. (Leslie leaves) [CLYDE_EXIT_2] Ryfia: ............ --CONTINUE WITH THE STORY-- -IF THIS IS THE FIRST OR SECOND ROGRESS HUNT- Niko: It's freezing in here! Can we leave before I catch something?! Serge: You could catch a cold taking a bath, Niko. Let's go. Niko: Why would you say that? L'Arc: Ha ha! Calm down, you two. Serge/Niko: ............ ______________________________________________________________________________ [--------------] [Skits----(SKT)] [--------------] "Skits" are character conversations triggered by pressing a button as you walk through certain areas at certain points in the story. The button pressed varies depending on what controller scheme is being used. These Skits are not required for completion of the main story, but many of them offer fascinating conversations that provide background and character development. There are a few ways to trigger a Skit. One way is to walk around an area until a Skit prompt appears. Another way is to open the main menu or map and then close it. Doing so may reveal the next available Skit. And some Skits may only be triggered by walking through certain areas at certain points, completing certain quests, or having clothes in your inventory related to Costume Skits. Skits will always be displayed in brackets like "[ ]", and I've for the most part listed them in the order in which they appear in the main story. [---------------] [-Skit Contents-] [---------------] There are over 200 regular skits in Arc Rise Fantasia. MAIN STORY SKITS -Retea Forest- 001. Felburst 002. Dragonslaying -World Map 1- 003. Coders -Topazion first visit- 004. About Ryfia 005. A Word Unknown -World Map 2- 006. About Alf 007. Honest Comment 008. First Encounter 009. Friendship 010. Recent Events 011. Dragon Gem 012. Double Fluster -Jada and Dragon Prison first visit- 013. General Clyde 014. Merc Traveler 015. The Deathchanter 016. Dragon Prison 017. Ray Shortage 018. Enter the Sidekick 019. Sergeant? -World Map 3- 020. The Percival -Diamant first visit- 021. Where is Niko? 022. The Royal City 023. General Freya 024. Weiss and L'Arc 025. Weiss and Alf 026. Pretty Little Warrior 027. Legendary Blade -World Map 4- 028. The Crimson Mist -World Map 5 (After Mandelro Coast)- 029. Dangerous Arrival 030. Grumble, Grumble 031. Childhood Friends 032. Holy? Sacred? 033. Instructor of Magic 034. Adele's Endeavors -Kopin Village- 035. Kopin Village 036. Living with Nature -World Map 6- 037. My Grampa 038. Adele Uncertain 039. Kopin and the Stars 040. Alf's Memories -Nabra Jungle- 041. Nabra Jungle 042. Where I Grew Up -World Map 7- 043. Tropical Heat -Full Moon Inn- 044. The Moon Inns 045. Mother's Legacy 046. Two Necklaces -World Map 8- 047. Awkward Leader -Antrax 1- 048. Eavesdropping 049. The City of Gospel 050. Unrest 051. Assassination 052. Hard-to-Find 053. Surprise and Rest 054. When We First Me 055. What I Cannot Offer 056. Serge Pokes Fun 057. Shady Serge -Shrine 1- 058. Alf's Resolution 059. Underground River 060. Prince's Decision 061. My Dear Grampa 062. A Puzzled Ryfia 063. Adele's Sorrow 064. When We're Home -Antrax 2- 065. Emperor's Illness 066. Rafil -Oceansong Road and Return to Shrine- 067. Guessing Game 068. Wet Road 069. Where is Adele? 070. Mature Duo 071. Three of Us Left 072. Seeking an Answer -Diamant second visit- 073. Homecoming 074. Good Old Zamuel -Carbunculus first visit- 075. Turemilia 076. The Republic 077. Bastion of Culture 078. Kopin and Resolve 079. Every Single Time 080. Republic Leader 081. Duty and Reality 082. Cecille - Departure -World Map 9- 083. Officially Fugitives 084. Attractive Leader 085. To the Holy City -Benetnasch first visit- 086. A City Destroyed 087. Annoying? -World Map 10- 088. Rastan Oigen -Gauss Tunnel- 089. Crystal Fangs 090. Cecille Acts Strong 091. Many Mysteries -Batrachites First Visit- 092. Lonely Streets 093. Atrocities -World Map 11- 094. In Search of Rogress 095. Speculation 096. Where to Next? -Ebur first visit 1- 095. A Quiet Village -World Map 12- 096. Ryfia Worries 097. Niko Repentant -Ebur Ruins- 098. Golden Labyrinth 099. Easily Flirted With 100. Clyde's Quandary 101. Oil and Water 102. Dynos' Allegiance 103. Cecille - Satisfaction 104. Kopin and Atoning -World Map 13- 105. A Familiar Wind 106. Serge and Maria -Ebur first visit 2- 107. Ryfia's Quandary -World Map 14- 108. Promise with Adele 109. Long Road Home -Galois Ravine- 110. Ancient Battlefield -World Map 15- 111. Young Hierarch -Topazion second visit 1- 112. Been a While -World Map 16- 113. Prayer 114. Black Rain -Topazion second visit 2- 115. Serge's Fate -World Map 17- 116. Niko the Scout -Jada and Dragon Prison second visit- 117. Misunderstandings -World Map 18- 118. Weiss' Secret 119. Enthusiastic Cecille -Ebur second visit 1- 120. A Chatty Maria -World Map 19- 121. Two of a Kind -Gula Church Ruins- 122. Left-handed Boy 123. Dragon Descent 124. Past and Future -Ebur second visit 2- 125. The Lost -World Map 20- 126. Ship to the Stars 127. Making of a Legend 128. Cecille - Victory -Zeifellt Holy Tower (Rogress Hunt)- 129. Ups and Downs -Ruins of Hilbert (Rogress Hunt)- 130. Inevitable Fate -Ellgode Volcano (Rogress Hunt)- 131. Death's Doorstep -Soliton Caves (Rogress Hunt)- 132. Running Water -Opalus 1- 133. Strange Concepts -Carbunculus second visit- 134. Lagoon the Cursed 135. Father and Son -World Map 21- 136. Hidden Potential 137. The Ailing City -Resolvent Iceberg- 138. Snowy Abode 139. L'Arc and Rastan -Opalus 2- 140. A Hesitant L'Arc 141. Celebration -World Map 22- 142. A Jealous Ryfia 143. Charming Leader 144. Cecille - Nostalgia -World Map 23 (After third Carbunculus visit)- 145. Parting Ways -Benetnasch second visit- 146. Where is Hosea? -Carbunculus (after Paula and Luna battle)- 147. Hello from Leslie 148. Deterrent Beauty 149. A Vicious Trap 150. Academic Interest 151. A Lingering Taste -Inside a Rogress dungeon for the third time- 152. Cecille - Setback -World Map 24- 153. Niko's Letter -Diamant third visit- 154. Cecille - Growth 155. Zamuel's Will 156. Tactical Decisions 157. Weiss' Intentions -World Map 25- 158. Remembrance -Carbunculus again- 159. Lordly and Knightly -Batrachites second visit- 160. Role and Duty 161. A Secret Well Kept 162. So Close, and Yet... -World Map 26- 163. Confrontation 164. Leslie Worried -Flagship Percival- 165. To the Percival 166. The Flying Palace 167. Paranoia 168. Weiss' Death -World Map 27- 169. Stray Sheep -World Map 28 (After Benetnasch and Heading to Zeifellt)- 170. In Retrospect -Zeifellt Holy Tower (Story)- 171. Renewed Resolve 172. Kopin and Healing -World Map 29- 173. What Really Counts 174. A True Miracle 175. Niko's Gratitude 176. Niko's Admiration 177. Beyond Wonderful -Ferris- 178. Niko the Rebel 179. Beyond Time -Ruins of Hilbert (Story)- 180. Reminiscence -World Map 30- 182. Old Friends 183. Resistance Leader -Carbunculus once again- 184. Just Be Yourself 185. The Curse is Lifted 186. Keep Your Cool -Ellgode Volcano (Story)- 187. Can't Stand It 188. At All Costs 189. Clyde's Words -World Map 31- 190. Welcome News 191. Cecille - Pride -World Map 32 (After Soliton Caves)- 192. Singing Stone -Diamant fourth visit- 193. Alf's Reign 194. Diamant Under Alf 195. Allul's Foresight 196. What to Blame 197. Niko Kidnapped -Lascarde Skywalk- 198. Lascarde 199. Dragon Gems & Us 200. Deeply Asleep 201. Brother's Words -World Map 33- 202. Sundered Forever 203. Silence on Board 204. Many Possibilities 205. Fangs in the Sea 206. Kopin and Support -Verct Skywalk- 207. Unnatural Nature 208. Niko's Promise 209. Saying Goodbye -World Map 34- 210. Heroic Agreement -World Map 35 (After final Diamant visit)- 211. Cecille - Dedication -Holy Land of Noire- 212. Full Circle 213. Gift and Gratitude 214. Immortality 215. The Heroic Way 216. Meeting the Past MISCELLANEOUS -Visiting Diamant late in the game- 217. Strong Presence 218. Journey's End -Visiting Antrax late in the game- 219. Forgiven at Last -Visiting Ebur late in the game- 220. A Legend is Born -After getting the first Lightship upgrade- 221. Loyal Servant -After getting the second Lightship upgrade- 222. Lovable Servant -After bonding with Mashgar- 223. Big Birdy -After bonding with Kudoan- 224. Cute and Cuddly -After bonding with Allul- 225. All that is Lost -Infinite Maze of Allwise- 226. Allwise - Cue 227. Allwise - Sustenance 228. Allwise - Relationship 229. Allwise - Mutual Good 230. Allwise - Closure -After completing the Infinite Maze- 231. Return of the Hero If you wish to jump to a specific Skit, press CTRL+F and type in the title of the Skit. Be sure not to include the number of the Skit in the search term. -Retea Forest- [Felburst] L'Arc: You saved my life! I almost got pulled into that Felburst! Ryfia: Felburst? L'Arc: You didn't know? Then what were you doing? Ryfia: The Feldragon was in agony, so I eased its pain. L'Arc: Oh, I s-see... Just remember. When a Feldragon dies, it releases an explosion called a Felburst. Ryfia: Feldragons... explode? Poor things... L'Arc: Poor things? I guess I've never... thought of it that way! You're a bit strange! - [Dragonslaying] L'Arc: ...I almost forgot. I've got to report to the 2nd Air Squadron and let them know I'm alive. Ryfia: What's the matter? L'Arc: I'm a mercenary for the Meridian Empire. Oh, sorry. You're probably not interested in army talk. Ryfia: What's a mercenary? L'Arc: Uh, it's a soldier employed by countries and organizations. I'm employed by the Imperial Family. I'm what you call an authorized mercenary. Ryfia: An authorized mercenary. Got it. L'Arc: Yeah. My father... He was a mercenary too. But he died when I was just a kid. Ryfia: I see... L'Arc: Look at me ramble on... We've only just met! You must be tired. Let's get you somewhere where you can rest. - -World Map 1- [Coders] L'Arc: Are you a Coder? You know, the Empire doesn't have many Coders. Ryfia: I'm a Diva, not a Coder. L'Arc: A Diva? You know that all the structures in the world are made up of Code, right? Coders analyze and release that power. They use it on different things. That's what you are, right? Ryfia: I told you. I'm a Diva. L'Arc: A Diva... Well, whatever. Although, I've never heard of a Coder that can calm a Feldragon by singing. - -Topazion first visit- [About Ryfia] L'Arc: You really are oblivious, aren't you? Ryfia: You think? L'Arc: I can't believe you were able to live like that! Ryfia: I don't know what I'm oblivious to, so it was never really an inconvenience. L'Arc: Really? You must have had a very sheltered life. Ryfia: Sheltered...? Of course I had shelter! L'Arc: Gah! Alright, already! I get it! - [A Word Unknown] Alf: I came looking for you because I was worried, but I didn't expect you to be with such a lovely lady. L'Arc: That's not what this is, you idiot! Ryfia: What's an idiot? Alf: Huh? L'Arc: This is what I have to put up with! Ryfia: I like being with you L'Arc. I learn so many new words! Alf: ... - -World Map 2- [About Alf] L'Arc: I think you two might be perfect for each other. Ryfia: Really? L'Arc: He's a bit spoiled too. He's a prince, you know! Alf: Stop it! Ryfia: Did you have shelter too? Alf: What? L'Arc: Ha ha! Yeah, he was sheltered, all right! - [Honest Comment] L'Arc: Having a selfish prince around makes it hard on me, you know! Alf: I didn't mean to say anything selfish. I only wanted to say what I thought was right... L'Arc: Yeah, yeah, I know. You really haven't changed, have you? Alf: That's why I trust you so much. L'Arc: Heh. You can still say corny things like that with a straight face. But I guess that's what makes you YOU. Alf: ...Really? - [First Encounter] Ryfia: I see you two are good friends. How did you meet? Alf: We've been learning from the same martial arts teacher since we were kids. L'Arc: There's this really old guy that was one of my father's old mercenary friends... He taught Alf and I how to use a sword. Alf: Although L'Arc wouldn't open up to me for the longest time... L'Arc: Of course not! You're a prince, remember? I was terrified just being in the presence of royalty... Alf: You're one to talk! I thought L'Arc was just being rude to me at first. Ryfia: Then I guess you're both to blame? Alf: Haha! Yeah, probably. - [Friendship] Ryfia: How did the two of you become friends? L'Arc: What's with all the questions? Ryfia: I just want to know more. I don't know anything about you. L'Arc: ...I don't really remember. Alf: I do! Remember the first time we fought each other? It was after that. L'Arc: Oh, right... Now I remember. Alf: I couldn't beat L'Arc for the life of me... I was laying there on the ground, battered and bruised, and he just said "Can you get up?" He wouldn't even come near me when we first met... But I remember being glad that we got to know each other. - [Recent Events] L'Arc: When you think about it, Alf and I have known each other for a really long time. Alf: Yes, I guess we have. Ryfia: L'Arc the mercenary, and Alf the prince... Alf: Right now, he's helping out with the Lightship Squadron I'm in charge of. L'Arc: To put it bluntly, I work for him. Ryfia: I feel that the connection between you is stronger than that. You seem so close. Alf: Thanks. L'Arc: Cut it out! I told you, it's embarrassing when you say things like that! - [Dragon Gem] Ryfia: I wonder why no one else has a Dragon Gem? L'Arc: Why...? You're the only one who does, Ryfia! Ryfia: Really? There are five Dragon Gems on my skin! I thought everyone had them! L'Arc: You can't take them off? Ryfia: No. They're a part of me. L'Arc: A part of you huh...? I've never heard of anyone like that before! Ryfia: ... L'Arc: Ah, I'm sorry! Oh, don't make that face... Sigh... - [Double Fluster] L'Arc: You said you have five Dragon Gems, right? Where are the rest of them? Ryfia: One second. I'll show you. L'Arc: Hey! Wait a second! Alf: R-Ryfia! Ryfia: What? L'Arc: You don't have to get naked! Ryfia: But I can't show them to you unless I do! Alf: It's okay, we get the picture! Ryfia: You two really are strange!... L'Arc: Oh, we're strange, huh? - -Jada and Dragon Prison first visit- [General Clyde] L'Arc: I wonder how the old man's doing? Alf: I haven't seen him for quite some time now. L'Arc: I'm sure he'll be happy to see you. Ryfia: Who are you talking about...? L'Arc: Oh, the old man? Alf: His name's Clyde. He used to be our caretaker, but now he's the commander of the local garrison. L'Arc: He's like the definition of the work "serious." Without a doubt, he's had a major effect on Alf's personality. Alf: Well, I was with him for so long. I'll introduce you, Ryfia. I'm sure he'll be able to help you too. Ryfia: Really? Thank you, Alf. - [Merc Traveler] L'Arc: Are you sure you don't know that guy? Ryfia: Positive. He makes me curious, though. Alf: Curious? Ryfia: Yes... Curious about what, I'm not quite sure. L'Arc: He was a pretty cool guy. There's this mercenary I wish I could be like... I wonder if he's like that guy? Alf: You mean the polar opposite of you? L'Arc: Hey, what do you mean by that?! Alf: Well, that reaction of yours, for starters! - [The Deathchanter] L'Arc: That Deathchanter... Who was he? Ryfia: The Deathchanter... He attacked the Benetnasch Singing Ministry and killed my mother... Alf: Perhaps he attacked Jada because his target was actually you? Ryfia: I don't know... Why would he do something so terrible...? L'Arc: A Deathchanter, huh? Quite the troublesome opponent you have after you! - [Dragon Prison] L'Arc: Hey, Alf? Alf: What is it? L'Arc: The Dragon Prison has been here since ancient times, hasn't it? Even before the town of Jada existed... Alf: Yeah, it has. L'Arc: So, it's an ancient structure... Alf: What's with the serious face? L'Arc: Is there a problem? Alf: No, not really. I get the feeling that something strange is hidden here. - [Ray Shortage] Ryfia: I never imagined that Ray would run out! Alf: I'm sorry to impose such an inconvenience on this country's citizens. L'Arc: It's not your fault! You're always so worried about things. Alf: Still... Ryfia: Why would the people of Olquina stop the Ray flow? L'Arc: Who knows? I'd like to ask the same question. If this keeps up, it'll probably spark a war. Ryfia: A war... - [Enter the Sidekick] L'Arc: That darn Niko. I'm going to have to have a talk with him. Alf: Oh, go easy on him! He's like your little brother, after all. L'Arc: Little brother? Ha! He's older than you, you know! Alf: Haha! I suppose he is. L'Arc: He's a soldier in the regular army, yet he wants to be the apprentice of a mercenary? He's hopeless! Ryfia: Still... You should be thankful you have such a faithful servant. L'Arc: Don't you have to serve someone to be called a servant?! - [Sergeant?] Ryfia: First Sergeant Lagoon... Is that you, L'Arc? L'Arc: Hmmm? Didn't I tell you? It's my full name. L'Arc Bright Lagoon. Ryfia: What's a First Sergeant? L'Arc: It's a rank in the Army. It's the one that comes after sergeant. It's just a title, though. I don't really have any authority. Ryfia: Why do you need ranks? L'Arc: Why? Because some people have a tendency to give stupid commands. Can't have mercenaries getting orders to go kill themselves all the time! Ryfia: How terrible...! They tell people to kill themselves?! L'Arc: That's the army for you... - -World Map 3- [The Percival] (Outside of Diamant the party sees a flagship in the sky) Ryfia: Is that... a big... ship? L'Arc: Huge, isn't she? That's the Imperial Army's prized flagship Percival. Ryfia: The flagship Percival... L'Arc: It's like a fort used in battle against the Feldragons. I used to serve on it. Ryfia: Really...? L'Arc: Inside, it's like a luxury liner. Almost like Castle Diamant, actually. Ryfia: I see... L'Arc: What's wrong? Ryfia: It's just kind of frightening... to see such a big ship floating in the sky like that... L'Arc: You're scared of her? Well, don't worry! You'll never have to get on. - -Diamant first visit- [Where is Niko?] L'Arc: That darn Niko... He's gone and run off... Alf: I just hope he's all right... Ryfia: Are you worried L'Arc? L'Arc: Not particularly. In fact, the next time I get my hands on him, I'm going to throw him in Diamant Bay! Alf: Oh, come off it. He's doing the best he can! L'Arc: The best he can? He's always messing things up! Alf: And that's why you can't leave him in a fix, isn't it? L'Arc: You know, your ability to misinterpret what people say always amazes me! - [The Royal City] Ryfia: This is Royal City? Alf: Yes, the Imperial City of Diamant. Ryfia: There's so many people. Alf: Well, people come from all around to live here. That's right. And there are a lot of Lightships here too. Ryfia: What for? Alf: In case Feldragons attack from the sky. - [General Freya] Ryfia: Sorry, it's my fault... Alf: No, I should be apologizing... L'Arc: General Freya's pretty pig-headed. She shouldn't catch us. Alf: No, she's right. And even more so if the order came from my brother. Ryfia: Who's this Freya person? Alf: She's one of the generals that leads our country's army. She's still fairly young, but she serves as an aide to my brother. L'Arc: Talented woman. Alf: Indeed she is. A very gifted person, to say the least. - [Weiss and L'Arc] L'Arc: Same old Sir Weiss I see. Ryfia: Does he hate you, L'Arc? L'Arc: Who knows? Alf: I don't think he does. After all, he's the one that gave permission for L'Arc to enter the palace. L'Arc: I honestly thought he had more trust in me though. Alf: I'm sorry... L'Arc: Hey, it's not your fault. - [Weiss and Alf] Ryfia: You know, he doesn't look like Alf very much. L'Arc: You mean Sir Weiss? Ryfia: Yes. Alf: Ah, my brother and I have different mothers. But we're still brothers, and I respect him all the same. L'Arc: Personality-wise, you're polar-opposites. Alf: Haha! That's probably the reason I'm able to respect him so much! - [Pretty Little Warrior] Niko: Nice... t'meet ya. Cecille: Hmph. Niko: Oh, you're not still mad at me for that are you? You're an experienced soldier! I get it, I get it! Cecille: You'd better! Niko: I do. Cecille: Well, then... Let's get started on this new adventure! I'm so excited! Niko: I know, right?! I can't wait! Cecille: Cut that out. Niko: Awww... What now? Cecille: You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Niko: Huh? - [Legendary Blade] Ryfia: What's this Leon guy like? Cecille: You don't know? He's a legendary swordsman. They say he has lightning reflexes. L'Arc: He was a friend of Grampa Zamuel and my father. Alf: He was the one that made L'Arc want to become a mercenary. L'Arc: I can't believe I'm going to meet THE Leon. No one's seen him since the Lord Knights Mercenaries split up. Cecille: I can't wait to meet him either! - -World Map 4- [The Crimson Mist] Alf: Master Zamuel... Adele... Are they okay? L'Arc: He may not look it, but he's a tough firecracker. It'll take a lot more than that to get him down. Plus, Adele's been trained by Gramps. Alf: Still! L'Arc: Besides, we're going to save them! They'll be fine until then. All we can do is trust they'll be okay. Alf: ...I guess. Let's get going then! - -World Map 5 (After Mandelro Coast)- [Dangerous Arrival] Serge: Okay, okay. Let's just get along people! L'Arc: This doesn't mean I trust you. Serge: You don't beat around the bush much do you? Niko: C'mon, he doesn't seem like that bad of a guy. Alf: Whether you trust him or not, what we need right now is information. Can you tell us what you know? Serge: Well, it's not much... I'm still a new recruit and all... Plus, I wasn't really all that interested in what that gang was up to. Adele: You've got to be kidding me... Serge: Babe, I wouldn't go falling for me if I were you. Adele: Excuse me?! - [Grumble, Grumble] Niko: Wow, it's pretty hot. Serge: I hate hot weather. Niko: There's probably a lot of bugs and stuff we've never seen in the jungle. Serge: You mean like leeches?! Gross! I can't stand those! L'Arc: Stop blabbering you two and let's get a move on! Niko: You're one to talk! Look at you, you're dripping with sweat. Serge: Face it! You're just as uncomfortable as we are. L'Arc: Enough! The incessant chatter from both of you is only making it worse! If you don't like it, stay behind! Serge: Now, you see, it's hysterical men like you that women can't stand. Niko: Exactly. L'Arc: Wh-why you...! - [Childhood Friends] L'Arc: You should be more lady-like. No one's gonna want a wife like that. Adele: Q-quiet, you! What do you care, anyway?! L'Arc: I care as a long-time friend! Alf: C'mon... That was uncalled for, L'Arc. Ryfia: Yeah, I think she's very cute. Adele: Th-thanks... L'Arc: Oh, stop blushing. It doesn't suit you! Adele: ...I can't stand you sometimes! - [Holy? Sacred?] Niko: What a weird-looking thing. Kopin: I'm not a thing. I'm a Kopin. Ryfia: Kopins are holy beings, Niko. Niko: Look at its face. It's all elasticky! Kopin: S-stop that! Stop pulling it! Ryfia: Niko, leave him be! Niko: It's like a toy! Kopin: Keep that up and I'll get angry. Niko: ...Huh? Kopin: Stop that! Stop pulling on me! - [Instructor of Magic] Alf: Adele... Adele: What? I'm a skilled Summoner. I hate always having to sit on the sidelines and be protected! They attacked Zamuel's School, and they hurt Grampa! I can't just sit back and do nothing! Alf: Okay, okay. Just promise you won't do anything stupid. Adele: I won't. But only if you promise too! Alf: Okay, I promise. - [Adele's Endeavors] L'Arc: You really don't listen to anyone once you get started do you? Adele: Don't worry about me, I'm a master of magic. Don't push yourself too hard, Ryfia! Ryfia: I'm sorry. I can't keep up with the rest of you... Alf: Ryfia's got a special gift. That's why she's helping us. Adele: Y-you think I don't know that?! Just leave the fighting to me! Got it, Ryfia?! Ryfia: Okay. I'm counting on you Adele! L'Arc: Six of one, half a dozen of the other, if you ask me... - -Kopin Village- [Kopin Village] Ryfia: I'm glad everyone made it back to the village safely. Kopin: Thank you. You all have my gratitude. Adele: Yeah, no thanks to those guys trying to catch and sell you. Ryfia: Indeed... Kopin: All we want is to live in peace. However, something is happening here in our village too. Ryfia: S-something...? Kopin: It frightens us. Adele: H-hey, stop trying to pull us into this...! Kopin: I'm sorry... - [Living with Nature] Ryfia: What a quiet village... Kopin: Yes. We live peaceful lives here. Serge: I'd get bored here pretty fast. Adele: Really? I think it's wonderful, being surrounded by nature and all. Ah, I'd love to settle down here with someone special... L'Arc: Getting a little ahead of ourselves, aren't we? (Adele hits L'Arc) L'Arc: Ouch! That hurt, Adele! Serge: You've got a lot to learn about women. L'Arc! L'Arc: Huh?! - -World Map 6- [My Grampa] Adele: Grampa... I hope you're all right... Alf: Are you okay, Adele? Adele: Oh, Alf. I'm fine. That Rastan man took Grampa to see a doctor, right? He's probably feeling fine now! Alf: ...Probably. Adele: He is, I just know it! He's my Grampa... you know... Alf: You don't have to pretend, Adele. Adele: Alf... I didn't mean to worry you. Alf: It's okay. Let's go back and see Master Zamuel, shall we? Adele: ...Yes! - [Adele Uncertain] Adele: Hey, Ryfia? Ryfia: What is it? Adele: Don't you find L'Arc a bit rough and insensitive? Ryfia: I don't know... He's really a good guy though. L'Arc: But he's callous... and a bit vile. Ryfia: Really...? Adele: Don't you get sick of traveling with someone like that? Ryfia: Not in the least. It is my destiny to be with the Child of Eesa. Adele: D-destiny...? Ryfia: Yes. Adele: Ummm... Ryfia...? Ryfia: What's the matter? Adele: Oh, uh, never mind! It's nothing! Sorry to bother you! Ryfia: ...! - [Kopin and the Stars] Kopin: People squint when they think of the future. Is it to intentionally narrow their perspective? Or is it anxiety? I can't do it, even though I have a home I'd like to return to. Niko: (The little brat... How can he say those things with such a straight look on his face?! L'Arc: (Just leave him be. I really wanna hear this.) Niko: (But Mr. L'Arc...) L'Arc: (I said leave him be!) Kopin: If I could blink in rhythm with the twinkling of the stars, would starlight take shelter in my eyes? Ah, but, even if I close my eyes, I can see the beautiful valley of flowers that are near my home. Niko: (Ughh! I can't stand this anymore!) L'Arc: (Cut it out Niko! I told you to leave him alone!) Hey, Kopin. We're leaving. Kopin: Yes, L'Arc. This Kopin will follow you to the ends of the earth. Ryfia: Me too. I'll follow you wherever you go L'Arc. Kopin: Wherever you go. L'Arc: Huh...?! Wherever... I go? Ryfia: Of course. Kopin: Yes. - [Alf's Memories] Alf: You're a great cook, Adele! Adele: Really? Well, cooking was my job when I was in Diamant, so I suppose I'm just used to it. Alf: Remember the time we hiked up that mountain with Master Zamuel to practice? Adele made us lunches with bread, fried fish, and fruit salad. It was completely unlike anything the cooks in the castle ever made... Adele: Was it... spicier than their food? Alf: ...No, that's not what I meant. I was still a kid then, and I was exhausted when we got to the top. I just remember eating the lunch you made... it was so delicious! Adele: Well, they do say that anything tastes good when you're starving! Alf: That's probably the best memory I have... In my whole life, that is... Adele: What was that? I couldn't hear you. Alf: ...Hehe, oh nothing. - -Nabra Jungle- [Nabra Jungle] Kopin: I would have loved to show you around... Alf: Don't worry about it. Kopin: Thank you. Alf: But, I don't think we'll be able to find our way. We can't be wandering around without any directions. Kopin: I've been eaten by that big mouth before! Alf: Huh...? Kopin: While I was being eaten, the other Kopins were barely able to escape death. Alf: (Huh? This Kopin is still alive, isn't he?) Kopin: But it didn't want to feast on my deliciousness. It said I paled in comparison to other spoils, the figs and mushrooms. The shame! Alf: Sh-shame...? Kopin: So if you can't find anything to feed the big mouth... Please, just toss me in. Alf: Huh? We can't do that! Kopin: Next time, it will taste my deliciousness! I vow it! Don't hesitate, just throw me in! Alf: W-well, in that case... If we're really in a jam... - [Where I Grew Up] L'Arc: This is getting pretty rough. Who's up for taking a rest? Serge: I am! I am! L'Arc: I wasn't asking you! Alf: Are you okay, Adele? Adele: Actually yes, strangely enough. Maybe I'm good with hot weather? L'Arc: Don't push yourself too hard. You'll hold us back if you faint or something. Adele: I'm fine! Unlike some of the wimps around here! L'Arc: Hey, who you callin' a wimp?! Serge: Well, those two are getting along swimmingly, aren't they? Alf: Huh? Oh... yeah... I suppose... Serge: (Heh. Like night and day, those two.) - -World Map 7- [Tropical Heat] Serge: I can't believe how hot it is! Niko: I know! It's crazy! Adele: Could you two stop complaining? It's making me more uncomfortable just hearing about it. Alf: I guess we'll just have to walk in the shade where it's cool. Adele: Okay, that's it! I can't stand it anymore! Now I'm all flushed! Serge: I'd love to go for a dip. Niko: Ooh, that'd be great! Serge: You know, swimming through the waves... Adele: M-me... too. Alf: Now they've got Adele going... Although, a swim would be nice. Adele: In that case... Alf: I think I'll go put in a request to L'Arc. Adele: That's the spirit! Thanks Alf. Alf: Hehe, you're quite welcome. - -Full Moon Inn- [The Moon Inns] Ryfia: We made it. L'Arc: Moon Inn. They should have beds here. Happy now? Ryfia: Yeah, very. L'Arc... Who do we have to ask to use Moon Inn? L'Arc: Ask? No asking necessary. This is public land. No one owns it. That means anybody can use it... As long as they obey the rules, that is. Ryfia: We can do that. L'Arc: Absolutely. Now, let's get in there and get some rest! - [Mother's Legacy] L'Arc: I wonder why those thieves are after Adele's pendant. Alf: It looks like any other pendant from the outside... Adele: I wonder if it's special? Ryfia: Did Zamuel give that to you? Adele: Yeah, a little while after I started living with him. He told me that I'd see my mother again someday if I held on to it, and to never give it to anyone. Alf: Anything else? Adele: No... not really... Although, when I put it on, it made me feel warm inside. I felt like it was something that was really connected and important to me... L'Arc: Hmmm... I wonder what it could be...? - [Two Necklaces] Ryfia: Adele, I wonder how come out pendants look so much alike... L'Arc: Yeah, they're exactly the same! Alf: Maybe Adele's mother and Ryfia's mother are somehow connected? Adele: I don't know... It is strange though. Serge: Maybe it's just a coincidence? L'Arc: Nah, they're too similar for that. Serge: Well, I suppose we can just ask Zamuel and figure it out from there. Ryfia: Yeah... - -World Map 8- [Awkward Leader] L'Arc: I doubt you can be of any use. Niko: C'mon, that's a bit cold! I promise I'll make it up to you someday! L'Arc: Get off me! The next time you get in my way, you'll pay for it. Alf: Don't you think that's enough now, L'Arc? L'Arc: Well, I had to get it through his thick skull somehow! Niko: Ouch! Ryfia: Well Niko, sometimes you have to say things a little bluntly in order to get a point across. Playing such a thankless role must be hard. He's really just worried about you. L'Arc: What are you talking about? I am not! Niko: Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: Get off me! - -Antrax 1- [Eavesdropping] Alf: What do we do now? L'Arc: Hmmm... Well, we've slipped our way into Antrax unnoticed... But I hadn't really thought about the next step. Alf: We don't want to drag Adele and Master Zamuel into this... L'Arc: So how do we stop the Skywalk from working? Alf: One wrong move, and we could touch off war with Olquina... Whatever we do, we've got to be careful! Serge: ... - [The City of Gospel] Adele: What a pretty town! Alf: Well, Olquina is a religious country. It's got a bit of a different feel to it than other places. Niko: Even the people here seem a bit different. It's almost like they're depressed or something. Adele: Depressed? That's kind of rude! Alf: In Olquina, religious Coders are deeply involved in the country's government. Adele: Really? You're pretty smart Alf. Kind of impressive, actually. Alf: Huh...? Well, maybe all that studying wasn't in vain after all. - [Unrest] L'Arc: What's with all the soldiers? Ryfia: L'Arc... I feel like... we're being watched. L'Arc: You're right. There's something about what that woman just said. We should be careful... Serge: Well, we should be fine as long as we don't do anything suspicious. L'Arc: Ryfia, make sure you don't say anything to give yourself away. Ryfia: Got it, I'll be careful. - [Assassination] Alf: I can't believe a Diva has been assassinated... Niko: It's got to be Sir Weiss. Alf: My brother would never do something like that! L'Arc: In any case, let's not do anything hasty until we get more information. Got that, Alf? Alf: Yeah... - [Hard-to-Find] Serge: What a solid-looking place... Niko: Solid? Serge: You know, as in "solid from the neck up"? Kind of like you! Niko: Well, it seems pretty imposing to me! I hope it's not that bad! Serge: No, not at all. Ryfia: Wait, how is this tower like Niko? Serge: Haa! Not another one! Ryfia: ...! - [Surprise and Rest] L'Arc: Well, should we find an inn? Ryfia: An inn...? Those have beds, right? Alf: Huh? Adele: What are you talking about Ryfia? L'Arc: Hahaha! When I first met her, she didn't even know what an inn was. Ryfia: But I know now! The beds at inns are so comfy. Adele: Wow, there's people who don't know stuff like that? L'Arc: But you know Ryfia, the beds in the castle where Alf lives are even bigger and comfier! Ryfia: Really? Alf: Don't tease her L'Arc! Ryfia: I'll sleep in your bed if we ever go to your castle. L'Arc and Alf: Wha...?! - [When We First Met] L'Arc: When you think about it, we've known each other for a long time. Alf: What's gotten into you? L'Arc: Nothing, it's just a lot has happened lately. It made me think about the past a little bit. Adele: I guess so... But you haven't changed in the least, L'Arc! L'Arc: Neither have you! You'd come to practice with us and always cause trouble! Adele: I never caused trouble! You were just too rowdy! Alf: You're both right, neither of you have changed! - [What I Cannot Offer] Adele: You've always been so nice Alf. Alf: You think? Adele: Remember that time when you brought that stray dog home? You couldn't keep it, so I took it home to take care of it. Alf: I remember. Kind of stupid of me to bring it home when I couldn't even take care of it myself. Adele: That's not all though. You were always there to take care of me when I hurt myself. L'Arc on the other hand, is a completely different story. He should take notes from you... Alf: ...So what you're saying is that the nice guy always finishes last. Adele: Hmmm? What was that Alf? Alf: Oh, uh, never mind. - [Serge Pokes Fun] Serge: So, what do you think? L'Arc: What do you want all of a sudden? Serge: Just answer the question! L'Arc: W-Well, Adele is like a sister to me, and we've only just met Ryfia... Serge: ...Ahahaha! L'Arc: What?! Serge: I was talking about our destination. You really are the poster boy for puberty, aren't you? L'Arc: Poster boy? Not likely! - [Shady Serge] Serge: When you get to be this old, the little things don't really move you anymore. L'Arc: C'mon, you sound like an old geezer. How old are you anyway? Serge: How old do I look, handsome? Niko: Cut that out! Adele: He looks really old, but maybe he's actually young... Serge: Wait a sec. What do you mean, "looks really old"? Ryfia: Hmmm... Really young...? Like 12? L'Arc: Are you trying to be funny?! Alf: Okay, calm down everyone! If he doesn't want to say, then don't force it out of him! - -Shrine 1- [Alf's Resolution] Ryfia: Alf, I don't think I've heard you laugh that much lately. (Alf looks surprised) Alf: Well, not as much as you. I wish I could be more like you... Ryfia: More like me? Alf: How can you be so calm all the time, Ryfia? Ryfia: Well, I was really sad when I lost my mom and servants in the Singing Ministry attack... Alf: Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring back bad memories for you... Ryfia: All I can do now is follow my duty and live my life in the here and now... Alf: Duty...? Ryfia: You must have one too Alf. Something you're meant to do? Alf: A duty... Something I'm meant to do? - [Underground River] Adele: I wonder where the controls are? Serge: Probably down here somewhere. Alf: If we destroy it, Ray will start to flow into Meridia too... Ryfia: Alf! Alf: ... L'Arc: Alf, we have to do this! We have to stick to the plan! Alf: I know that. Let's hurry! - [Prince's Decision] L'Arc: I wonder if it worked? Alf: ...I think so. With the control destroyed, Olquina might resort to military action. But when you think about the people of both countries, this had to be done. Adele: Alf... Ryfia: At least now the Ray will make it to Meridia. L'Arc: I hope so. Otherwise, we're risking our lives for nothing. Adele: It's going to work Alf. I believe in you! Alf: Thanks. We may have had no other choice here, but maybe there's still hope for reconciliation. We can't put the people of Olquina and Meridia in danger! I can't give up here! - [My Dear Grampa] Ryfia: You must really love Zamuel a lot, Adele. Adele: I... guess... Don't get me wrong, I'm very thankful for him! He raised me, and I'm not even his real granddaughter. Ryfia: I see... Alf: Master Zamuel absolutely adores Adele. Adele: Really? L'Arc: Gramps always had a soft spot for her. He was a lot more strict with us. Alf: Yup. Adele: That's because you were a bunch of brats! L'Arc: You're one to talk! - [A Puzzled Ryfia] Adele: Ryfia's so great... She's always so confident and calm and not scared of anything. I don't know anything, I'm clumsy and I'm always making mistakes. It's so embarrassing! Ryfia: I don't know. I don't know that much myself. Apparently I had shelter. Adele: Had shelter? Ryfia: L'Arc said that people like me and Alf had shelter. Adele: Ha ha! Oh! That's what you meant! Ryfia... If you realized one day that you were really stupid, what would you do? Ryfia: You're not stupid Adele! You know a lot of things! Adele: (How do you know...? Because I sure don't.) Ryfia: What's the matter? Adele: Oh, nothing. I was just thinking about how nice you are. Ryfia: You really think so? Thanks. - [Adele's Sorrow] Niko: Y'know, you're a really great girl, Ryfia! Ryfia: You're not so bad yourself. Although, you are a bit hasty. Niko: Oh, come on! Ryfia: Hehehe! Adele: You've changed quite a bit in the time since we first met. Ryfia: Really? Adele: You get along so well with Niko and Alf... You act so naturally with L'Arc... Ryfia: I just say what's on my mind is all. Adele: Say what's on your mind... I could never do that! Ryfia: ...Why not? Adele: ...I'm not really sure myself. - [When We're Home] Niko: Finally we can go home! The first thing I'm gonna do is take a hot bath and get something good to eat! Adele: You're so simple, Niko. It's kind of impressive. Niko: Well shucks. Adele: That's not a compliment! Alf: What are you going to do, Serge? Serge: That's a good question... Alf: You promised you wouldn't go back to that gang, remember? Serge: Huh? Oh, right... I guess I'll have to look for some honest work in Diamant. Niko: You think an ex-con will be able to find any? Alf: Niko! Serge: Hahaha! He's absolutely right! Que sera, sera, I suppose. Adele: Who knew Serge could be so simple, too? - -Antrax 2- [Emperor's Illness] Adele: How is Lord Mahat, Alf? Alf: ...Not so well it seems. Adele: Oh... Ryfia: Lord Mahat? L'Arc: The emperor of Meridia. Also, Alf and Sir Weiss' father. Alf: My brother has control of Meridia in place of my father, and he's doing quite well. So I'm not really worried. Niko: Wait, isn't that a bit backwards? Shouldn't the son of the true queen be the next in line for emperor...? Adele: Niko! Niko: Ah... Alf: Well, he is the older of the two of us, and besides, I think he's more fit to be emperor than I am. Nothing wrong with that, is there? Niko: N-no... Sorry... - [Rafil] Alf: Do you know anything about Olquina's Diva? Leslie: Just a little bit. I know that she was a priestess of unmatched beauty and alluring charm. She basically ruled Olquina. Alf: You can see the grandeur of her existence just by watching the people that live here. Everyone loved her... And believed in her too. Leslie: That's right. Almost to the point of idolatry. Alf: Have they found out who assassinated her yet? Leslie: I heard that some hostile organization was after her life... Alf: You think they're behind this? Leslie: Well, it's still under investigation. Alf: I... see... - -Oceansong Road and Return to Shrine- [Guessing Game] Niko: Who the heck are you anyway, Leslie? Leslie: Oh, my sweet boy. Does it really matter who I am? I'm me! Serge: Well, I guess you're not the only one staying undercover here. Besides, who doesn't like a mysterious woman? Alf: People! Stop fooling around! We've got to save Adele... - [Wet Road] Niko: Man... This place seems like it's crawling with monsters that could pop out at any moment! Ryfia: It certainly does... Leslie: Oh, they do pop out! In hordes! Niko: Really?! Leslie: This road was more heavily used long ago... After they closed it, monsters began living here, so we'd better stay on our toes. Niko: Wow, you know a lot... About this road anyway... Leslie: Well... It takes a beast to know a beast! Niko: Oh? Well, you must be the beastliest of 'em all, then! Serge: Do you have a death wish or something? Leslie: I could arrange that for you, you know. - [Where is Adele?] Alf: Adele... Where are you? Leslie: She's probably fine. Let's just calm down and look for her. Serge: She's right. There's nothing to worry about. Leslie: You act like you know that for a fact. Serge: It's just a feeling I have. She's a strong kid. Alf: If anything happens to her..! - [Mature Duo] Leslie: They're all such... children... Serge: Tell me about it! Babysitting isn't that easy... Leslie: Although you seem somewhat different from the others... Serge: You do too. You smell nicer. Leslie: Hehe, do I now? Serge: I'm just glad I finally met someone with things in common I can talk to. Leslie: I think you and I will get along just fine! Will you teach me what you know? Serge: Well, I'm just along with them for the ride. I'm not sure I'll be much help. Leslie: Oh, well. We can talk more... later. - [Three of Us Left] L'Arc: ...What the heck is going on? Ryfia: Adele? The Diva of Olquinaism...? Niko: Totally out of left field, right? Who coulda saw this one coming? Right Mr. L'Arc:?! L'Arc:: ... Niko: Adele! A Diva?! Who'da thunk it?! She did have a mysterious quality to her though, right Ryfia?! Ryfia: ... Niko: Mr. L'Arc...! L'Arc: Do you always have to be so loud and obnoxious? Anyway, just calm down and act naturally! I don't have a problem, so neither should you. Niko: Okay... - [Seeking an Answer] Ryfia: Looks like he knew exactly what you wanted, L'Arc. L'Arc:: That doesn't mean I understood him at all, though... Niko: What did he mean by that last thing he said? L'Arc: You mean, "You're your own ruler"? Who knows? Maybe exactly what he said, maybe not. Anyway, let's finish our last mission and we can talk about that later. - -Diamant second visit- [Homecoming] L'Arc: ...Sigh. Alf: What's with the sad face? It's so unlike you. L'Arc: Buzz off. Ryfia: ...What's the matter? L'Arc: Nothing's the matter... Being back here has just brought back some memories, that's all. Niko: I guess you're right. A lot did happen... Ryfia: It's good to look back on fond memories. You can go back to them whenever you want. L'Arc: Huh? I guess so. Anyway, home sweet home should be just over there... - [Good Old Zamuel] L'Arc: Niko, remember how absurdly hard Grampa Zamuel's training was? Niko: Of course! How could I forget that? Like how I couldn't use a sword, but he got mad at me and forced me to learn anyway? Ryfia: What kind of things did you do for practice? L'Arc: Once, we had to slice the stems off flowers with the tips of our swords without letting a single petal fall. Niko: Impossible, right? And training went on until we had decapitated 100 flowers. Ryfia: Flowers are meant to be look at and enjoyed! Cutting them with swords is just so sad! L'Arc: That's why we had to leave every single petal intact. Niko: He was quite the jokester that day! Ryfia: Why? What happened? Niko: Well, when we went to tell him that we were done, ...He barked, "Not yet, you aren't!" L'Arc: He picked up the flowers laying on the ground, thrust a ribbon in my face, and said... Niko: "Now make them into a bouquet!" Ryfia: A bouquet...? L'Arc: Yeah, he told me to take them to my mother. It was so embarrassing! I must have been 13 or 14. Ryfia: Wow... What a lovely man! L'Arc: He was something, that's for sure! - -Carbunculus first visit- [Turemilia] L'Arc: Turemilia... Niko: That's pretty far. Hey, I was sitting for so long, my butt is asleep... Ryfia: ...Come again? Niko: Erm, you see Ryfia... I didn't really mean my butt is sleeping. I meant it was soft and pliable like my brain. I was just exaggerating... Ryfia: So, you butt and your brain... are soft...? L'Arc: How do you understand, Niko? I totally know how you feel right now! Niko: Ryfia, I really don't mind your staring... But just don't look confused! - [The Republic] Ryfia: The Turemilian Republic comprises Carbunculus, the city where the Senate is based... ...Benetnasch, the holy city of North Noireism... ...and several other cities and villages, making it a sort of melting pot. Niko: Uh-huh, uh-huh... How interesting. L'Arc: Interesting? Are you really getting it Niko? Tell me, what's a melting pot? Niko: It's a place with a bunch of other places. They were separate before, but they've been mushed into one. See, when you've got Professor Ryfia as a teacher, you can't help but get smart. She's so lovely! L'Arc: Okay, let's get a move on. We'll be in deep trouble if we're late. Ryfia: Sorry, L'Arc. Niko: Yessir, Mr. L'Arc! 10-4, Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: Yeah, yeah... (Ryfia laughs) L'Arc: (So that's what Ryfia looks like when she laughs... I guess Niko has his uses after all.) Niko: She's so lovely! L'Arc: ...Idiot. - [Bastion of Culture] Ryfia: What a pretty town! Niko: And it's so big! L'Arc: We'll likely get lost. Ryfia: Of that, I'm fairly certain. Niko: Me too! Me too! I have the utmost confidence that I'll get lost. L'Arc: Is that something you should be proud of...? Anyway, we should be fine once we walk around a bit. - [Kopin and Resolve] Niko: I know you're with Mr. L'Arc because your Elder ordered it, but what's the point of your quest? Kopin: Kopin are always looking to better themselves. Ambition is vital to us. Without it, we won't grow to be big. Niko: Y-you want t-to become... big? Kopin: Of course! I want to become a Kopin whose capacity is greater than his size itself. Niko: I see... Kopin: And I want to have unwavering convictions. Then I'll have a body that never flinches, no matter what. Niko: (Oh, he must be talking about how jiggly he is. Didn't know he was self- conscious about it.) - [Every Single Time] Ryfia: They all look so happy. Even the people that are busy. L'Arc: I suppose that's what happens when you live in a free country. Niko: Let's go find some grub, Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: Is that all you can talk about? Food, food, food? Niko: Is that all you do? Complain, complain, complain? L'Arc: Well, whose fault do you think that is? If you want, I can put a stop to your arguing permanently. Niko: No thanks, I'll pass... - [Republic Leader] L'Arc: Ryfia, can I ask you something? Ryfia: Sure. What is it? L'Arc: About the Director of Turemilia's Senate meetings... Do you know her? Ryfia: I know the former Director... But he's passed on now... I met him at the Singing Ministry. He was nice... He had a very strong presence. L'Arc: I see. That's too bad. Ryfia: Too bad indeed. He was a wonderful person who loved his country... L'Arc: What about the new one? Ryfia: Unfortunately, I don't know her. The servants... The people at the Ministry never taught me about her. L'Arc: That's okay. You'll meet her when we go deliver this letter. Niko: Are we really going...? L'Arc: What, are you nervous Niko? Niko: Well, she is the leader of the nation after all... Ryfia: It'll be fine. I'm sure the new leader will like you just fine. Niko: Huh? Niko: You're a good person... And so is L'Arc. L'Arc: I hope you're right. Now, let's quit wasting time and get ourselves to the Senate already. - [Duty and Reality] L'Arc: Once we're done with this mission, I guess my contract with the Imperial Army is over. Ryfia: Does that make you sad, L'Arc? L'Arc: No, not sad. It just makes me worried when I think of the future. Ryfia: Worried? About what? L'Arc: About money. Ryfia: Huh? L'Arc: Money talks, after all. No money means no food, nowhere to sleep. Ryfia: I guess so, when you put it that way. L'Arc: Yeah, so I'm going to set up a contract with a guild in the meantime. That way I can get jobs and save up money. Things should be fine as long as I have some cash flow. Ryfia: And as long as you have money, you will be able to carry out your duty as the Child of Eesa right? L'Arc: Well... I don't know about that... - [Cecille - Departure] Cecille: Hey, Rastan. What kind of person do you consider to be brave? Rastan: Hmmm... Well, I suppose if you're talking about the things most heroes have in common... Cecille: Uh huh... Rastan: Probably someone with a spirit of self-sacrifice. Cecille: Self-sacrifice... Rastan: Someone who is able to give their all to another without any concern for themselves. I know of one such true hero. Niko: Self-sacrifice? That's nonsense! L'Arc: I don't want to be caught up in becoming a hero with someone who doesn't care about themselves! Rastan: Hmmm... Perhaps "self-sacrifice" was the wrong word. Let's rephrase that to "compassion." Cecille: Compassion... Thanks Rastan. Great! I feel like I'm one step closer to becoming a hero! Niko: "Feel" being the operative word! (Cecille hits him) Niko: Ouch! Hey, no punching! That's against the rules! - -World Map 9- [Officially Fugitives] L'Arc: Phew... Cecille: What's the matter, L'Arc? L'Arc: Nothing. I was just thinking that I'm a jailbreaker on the run... And she's my accomplice! Ryfia: ...! Cecille: Ahaha! Well, I suppose you don't see that every day! What about you, Niko? Niko: Huh...? L'Arc: There you go again, sounding like you're not the least bit nervous! Rastan: L'Arc, keep your voice down! L'Arc: ...Right. Sorry... Rastan: Still, you seem so calm and relaxed Niko. Cecille: He's right! We're being chased by the Republic's army in case you've forgotten! Niko: Hey, I'm just as uptight as the rest of you! L'Arc: He's just used to the whole being chased thing. He's always the first to run, after all... Rastan: Heh, perhaps that's for the best. A good soldier puts himself first in any situation. That said, a good soldier does their best to avoid these kinds of situations in the first place! - [Attractive Leader] L'Arc: Director Greenhill was a lot younger than I was expecting. Rastan: Her father was the previous Director. After his death, she ran for office to succeed him. Niko: She was really pretty, and she seemed so confident, too. Cecille: What are you smiling about, Niko? Your face is all melty and oogly. Ryfia: His face is going to melt?! Cecille: ...That's not what I meant. L'Arc: She was really pretty... But a little thorny for my liking. Rastan: I hear that there is a factional conflict between the Senators. She's probably got her hands full keeping them focused. - [To the Holy City] L'Arc: We're nearing Benetnasch, Ryfia... Aren't you excited? Ryfia: Not especially, L'Arc... Why? Ryfia: ...Oh, no reason... I just thought that coming back home might bring back fond memories. Ryfia: Memories... I suppose... I've only ever seen Benetnasch from my window. L'Arc: Oh... Yeah, that's right. I forgot. Sorry... Ryfia: Why are you apologizing? I just didn't know why it would bring back memories. I am excited to see what I think of the city though. L'Arc: I bet! I'd love to hear what you think of it. Ryfia: I'll be sure to tell you! - -Benetnasch first visit- [A City Destroyed] Niko: Gasp! Look at this mess! This building, that one, all of them! Ryfia: Ummm... Cecille: Niko! Show some respect! Niko: Oh... Right... I'm sorry, Ryfi... Huh? Cecille: Are you okay? Ryfia: I was always in the Singing Ministry, so I never got to see the city before it was destroyed... Niko: I see... Ryfia: It's okay Niko. I'm sure the city will go back to how it used to be eventually. Once people show up again, at least... Cecille: You're right. I'm sure of it. Ryfia: ...I hope so. - [Annoying?] Ryfia: Oh... There was a little black cat there just a second ago. L'Arc: Cat? What's so rare about a cat? They're everywhere! Cecille: Yeah, but this cat was really cute! L'Arc: Really? There are a lot of black cats out there, aren't they? Cecille: Hey, you don't think that cat is a mother cat do you? Niko: Hey, I think you're right. Ryfia: I wonder when she'll have her babies? Niko: Hmmm... Maybe in two or three months. By then, she should be surrounded by cute little kitties. Ryfia: Surrounded... by cute... kitties... L'Arc: Hehe! I think Ryfia likes cats. Ryfia: I think you're right. I wonder if cats like me? Cecille: Huh? Why would you say that? Ryfia: I'd like to pet one... Someday... - -World Map 10- [Rastan Oigen] Cecille: Hey, hey, hey, hey! Leo... I mean, Rastan! Rastan: What is it? Cecille: Since we're all traveling together now, tell me more about yourself. Rastan: More about myself? Niko: Sure, why not? Let's all think of a question to ask Rastan, and he has to answer it. Cecille: Oooh, that's a good idea. Let's do it! Rastan: Very well. Who's first? Ryfia: I'll go. What's your favorite flower? Rastan: Lupine. Cecille: What was the biggest battle of your life? Rastan: Haven't had it yet. Niko: What kind of women do you like? Rastan: ...Elegant women. L'Arc: Ha ha! Guys, ask him something serious! What's your biggest regret? Rastan: ...Breaking the trust of a friend. L'Arc: ...Oh... Ryfia: ...Oh... Cecille: ...Oh... Niko: ...Oh... L'Arc: Sorry, I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable. Rastan: It's okay, don't worry about it... - -Gauss Tunnel- [Crystal Fangs] L'Arc: It looks like... crystallization. Rastan: ...How ominous. L'Arc: And it looks worse than the crystallization we saw back in Kopin Village. Rastan: Kopin Village? L'Arc: To the southwest of Antrax. It's the home of that little jiggly thing with us. Rastan: Isn't that area covered in lush, green foliage? You say the crystallization has gotten worse? L'Arc: Yeah. Rastan: I see. Guess Fulheim is on a one-way path to doom... - [Cecille Acts Strong] Ryfia: Cecille, are you all right? Cecille: ...Yeah, I think so. It was a bit of a shock is all. Ryfia: Well, you did just have a fight with your little brother! Cecille: Oh, I'm used to fighting with him. We grew up fighting each other. Ryfia: Still, I think it's sad that the two of you have become enemies... Cecille: I suppose so, but let's not think about that too much right now. Onward! Next time, I'm going to give him a real eye opener! With my fist! Ryfia: Then I'll be cheering you on. Cecille: Thanks! What I was most shocked about was... Ryfia: Yes? Cecille: Well, Dynos is grown up now, but he's doing the same things he's always done. Ryfia: Huh? Cecille: Like collecting monster bones. Well, it used to be shells, but still... - [Many Mysteries] Cecille: Hey, what about me? I'm of the Divine Race you know! Niko: I guess you are, aren't you? Cecille: Doesn't that fire up your curiosity or something? You're looking at a mysterious, beautiful young woman, you know. Niko: Mysterious? You're talking about Ryfia right? Cecille: ...Why you! (Cecille hits Niko) Niko: Owowowowowow! Actually, it burns more than it hurts! Cecille: That's what I was aiming for! It burns when you get hit there! Niko: Owowowowow! It burns! - -Batrachites first visit- [Lonely Streets] Rastan: Looks like this town is protected by a wall. Cecille: Kind of like Carbunculus... But not as pretty. Rastan: Carbunculus may be far away, but there are signs that its beauty and art have made their way here as well. Cecille: Well, I'll be. Huh? Ryfia, what's wrong? Ryfia: Well... Everything's so sad... The streets, the houses, the people... Rastan: That's war for you. Hard to deal with, but... Ryfia: What... do you mean? Rastan: If we accept this state of things, it means accepting the war itself. Cecille: There he goes again with all his fancy talk... Ryfia: You're right. I guess we can't just accept the way things are. We have to keep thinking about how it looked before, and how it will look in the future. - [Atrocities] Niko: ...Gaah. L'Arc: What now? Niko: It just makes me shudder to think... L'Arc: If you had become an invader...? Niko: Exactly. If I had stayed with the Imperial Army, I might have attacked this place... L'Arc: Well, that's what being a soldier is. Niko: I became a soldier to protect Jada and Royal City. I didn't think it would mean invading other places. L'Arc: Niko... Niko: Well, I guess there were other benefits like money, supplies, good food, coupons, honor... L'Arc: ...I should have known. - -World Map 11- [In Search of Rogress] L'Arc: Ryfia, I want to ask you something. Ryfia: What? L'Arc: What kind of places do we find these Rogress things? It doesn't look like they're all in buildings like Simmah and Girtab. Ryfia: ...I'm sorry. Like I said before, I'm still learning things myself... But I have heard that some Rogress live in one place, while others roam the world. L'Arc: Roam the world? Like, as in flying? Ryfia: Actually, I'm not really sure. However, it appears that they can be found in certain regions of the world, moving in patterns. L'Arc: Patterns, huh? Well, I suppose we won't find them all under towers or on roofs then, will we? Ryfia: I suppose not. Oh, and the Rogress are Eesa's most powerful servants, so they also protect the land. Which means we won't find two in the same place, right? L'Arc: Hmmm... Well, that'll be a pain. Ryfia: You shouldn't be so rude to the Rogress. L'Arc: Right, right. My apologies. - [Speculation] Cecille: Hmmm... L'Arc: What are you doing? Cecille: Detective work! I'm giving my lucid thoughts a workout. L'Arc: Detective work? Are heroes doing that too these days? Cecille: Sometimes you have to fight with your brain too! L'Arc: Okay, so what is it you are trying to deduce? Cecille: The relationship between two certain men. I want to know what the real story is. Uh huh, uh huh... Interesting! L'Arc: Oh, how is that deducing anything? I just don't get you! - [Where to Next?] Niko: Prince Alf was sure something... Cecille: Yeah, he acted like we weren't even there. How frustrating... L'Arc: That Alf... Niko: Let's go, Mr. L'Arc! You've got to bond with the Rogress and go to Eesa, right? L'Arc: Right. The Rogress Gula... - -Ebur first visit 1- [A Quiet Village] Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc: What's the matter? Ryfia: Why did the Imperial Army attack a peaceful place like Ebur? L'Arc: Probably for strategic reasons. Ryfia: Strategic reasons? L'Arc: Well, their strategy is to defeat the enemy with as little money, supplies, and suffering to allies as possible. Ryfia: So Ebur was attacked simply because they needed it? L'Arc: Well, they probably needed the water and food here, but there's another reason too. Ryfia: What would that be? L'Arc: To restrict movement and stop the flow of goods. That lowers the morale of the people. Ryfia: I don't really understand... But I guess war means a lot more than just fighting... - -World Map 12- [Ryfia Worries] Niko: How did you know that Serge was from around here? Rastan: ...I heard it from someone a while back. Cecille: Oh yeah... From who? Rastan: An old... friend. L'Arc: Wow. You really are a mystery man, aren't you? Ryfia: Do you want to be like Rastan, L'Arc? L'Arc: Sure, why not? After all, he's strong and experienced. Ryfia: Just don't change too much, okay? L'Arc: Huh? Ryfia: Well, it's just that Rastan seems so sad. Like when we met Serge before. So I don't want you to change. I don't want you to become sad too. L'Arc: Huh...? Well, I'm not sure exactly how to do that, but I'll be careful. - [Niko Repentant] Niko: ...I screwed up. Ryfia: What? Magic? Niko: Well, that too, but I mean with Maria. You know, the one we met in Ebur? Ryfia: You weren't too blunt with her as well, were you? Niko: Well... Yeah. You know me too well. Ryfia: Well, when I heard that she couldn't speak, you did seem to be a bit heartbroken. Niko: I always... get caught up in the situation. It ends up hurting people. Ryfia: Well, it would be worse if you didn't know that you are hurting others. Niko: So, as long as I know... it's okay? Ryfia: Well, if you don't know, you can't apologize or regret things, right? Niko: Hmmm... I suppose you're right... - -Ebur Ruins- [Golden Labyrinth] Ryfia: I feel like we're going to get lost. Niko: Don't worry. Leave it to me! Cecille: You?! You seem like you'd be terrible with directions! Niko: Don't judge a book by its cover. I'll show you my uncanny ability to not get lost, even in places I've never been to! Ryfia: Wow, that's great Niko! Niko: Now, I'm getting the feeling that we should turn right over there... Rastan: It's a dead-end! Niko: ...Right. A dead-end. That's what I was going to say. So instead, if we turn left... Rastan: Another dead-end! Niko: Oh... W-well, then we should keep going straight... Rastan: You know, the way this road is, you can't tell whether it's a dead end or not sometimes. Niko: ...What he said. Cecille: Oh, great! - [Easily Flirted With] Leslie: Oh, L'Arc-y! L'Arc: ...What's gotten in to you? Leslie: Well, aren't we cold? And here I was trying to show some affection... L'Arc: What do you mean "affection"?! Leslie: Well, think about it. Here you are, waking up in the warm morning light and there I am at your bedside. Oh, L'Arc... Time to get up... Sleepyhead... L'Arc: ... Leslie: Did you picture it? L'Arc: Of course I did, you made me! What do you want? Leslie: Just toying with a young man's emotions. L'Arc: Sigh... If you're here watching me because Alf told you to, then could you please cut me some slack? Leslie: You know, you can't do a good job if you're so negative! L'Arc: Job... Right... What about you? Are you managing to find what you're looking for? Leslie: Are you worried? L'Arc: N-no... Who said anything about being worried? I'm just curious is all! Leslie: Well now! Is L'Arc-y interested in what little old me is up to? I'm flattered L'Arc! L'Arc: Cut... that... out...!!! - [Clyde's Quandary] Alf: Adele, are you all right? You look tired. Adele: ...Leave me alone. Alf: You don't like helping out L'Arc and the others, do you...? Adele: If you know, then why are you bothering me about it? And why do you always look at me that way? Like you don't know what to do with me, or something! If you hate me that much, then get away from me, Alf! Ugh! Alf: I never said... I hated you. I... Adele: Enough! Don't talk to me! Clyde: ...She's changed. When I saw her at Zamuel's Martial Arts School, she wasn't like that at all. Alf: She's just lonely. She's been lonely for so long, so she hides it, forces it down inside... Unable to change, she eventually lost control of herself. The worst part is I knew it... And I wasn't able to help her. I still can't. Clyde: Sir Alf... It pains me to see you this way. Please, take care of yourself. - [Oil and Water] Serge: That Rastan, he never changes. Rastan: Hmmm? Serge: You know, all brave and serious... Rastan: Well, you haven't changed either. Serge: A perfect earthly treasure? Rastan: Walking noise pollution! Serge: Do you always have to be so sharp-tongued? Rastan: We all have our good traits and our bad traits. I'm sorry to tell you, but I've never really considered you to be the type of person I can get along with. Serge: Likewise. I've been forced to put up with you since HE started trusting you. Rastan: Well, the way I see it, adults are obligated to take care of children. Serge: ...I can't stand you! Rastan: Likewise. - [Dynos' Allegiance] Adele: Hey, Dynos. That girl named Cecille... She's your big sister right? Dynos: ...Yes. Adele: I see. So I suppose you want to go to L'Arc and the others, too. Dynos: Ms. Rafil saved my life. I have vowed my life to Ms. Rafil... and you, her blood relation. Adele: Hey, did you hear that Alf? Dynos here says that he'd even fight against his own sister for me. Not like some hypocrites around here... Alf: Adele. I'm only trying too... Adele: I got it! But to do that, we have to deal with L'Arc. Hurry up and kill him already! Kill him for me! Make L'Arc pay! Alf: ...Adele. I understand. Truly, I do. Adele: You're always just talk! Let's go Dynos! Dynos: Y-Yes, Lady Adele! Alf: Adele... I suppose I'll never be able to take L'Arc's place in your eyes... - [Cecille - Satisfaction] Cecille: Fwaaaaaahhh... Niko: What's that sound for? Cecille: The sound you make when you feel great satisfaction, obviously. Niko: Wasn't that obvious to me! Cecille: The just hero Cecille and her companions... Niko: When you say "companions," you mean us... right? Cecille: Of course. Now, where was I? Okay. The hero and her companions saved the young girl, right? I'd say that's deserving of at least a chapter or two in an epic tale, yeah? Niko: Well, we did do a pretty nice job if I do say so myself! Cecille: Right? Right? I'm so pleased that my hero ranking just went from novice to Level 2! Niko: Wait, what happened to Level 1? Cecille: Who cares?! It's all about how I feel! - [Kopin and Atoning] Kopin: Looking at the starry sky pains me as if my heart has been pierced by a silver knife. His life, lost... The thought of rain, passing through my sight and slipping, only to be drawn into the earth... His beautiful brilliance releases forth a bright light that strikes me with both jealousy and confusion. And therein lies the reason why I let forth my sigh and stole his life. Serge: ...Whoa, that was close! I almost blacked out listening to him! Is he always like this? Ryfia: Almost always. Serge: That must be really tiring for him. Ryfia: Really...? Serge: Sure. I mean, look at his face. Kopin: Stop that! A Kopin's face isn't made to be stretched like tha... Boioioioinnng! - -World Map 13- [A Familiar Wind] Ryfia: The wind's pretty strong. L'Arc: Well, there's not much around here to block it. Rastan: Plus, this is hilly terrain. Sometimes the wind can be mischievous. Ryfia: Mischievous? As in naughty? Just like a little child? Rastan: In that case, it's one terrible child! This area is surrounded by the sea to the north, south, and west, so it gets hit by strong winds. Ryfia: So this wind is from the sea? And from Diamant? L'Arc: No... Well, maybe. Ryfia: Well, that makes me happy! Rastan: Happy? Ryfia: Well, it makes it seem like this place and Diamant are connected, even though it's so far away. L'Arc: Ah, gotcha... Rastan: I see... Ryfia: The wind has come in from the sea, and blows through the hills, rustling our hair... And touching our cheeks. - [Serge and Maria] Cecille: He's like a kind, big brother. Ryfia: You mean Serge? Cecille: His attitude toward us is the complete opposite of when he's with Maria. Ryfia: Well, he's older than us, so I guess that makes him a big-brother type. Cecille: No, that's not what I meant. He acts extra nice toward Maria. Ryfia: You think? Cecille: Oh, I know! I have a gift for sensing these things. They must have some kind of special relationship. Ryfia: Wow, Cecille. That must be some special gift you have. Cecille: I call it the Cecille Sensor. One of my 7 heroic skills. Ryfia: What do you use the sensor for? Cecille: Detecting when people are in love, mostly. Ryfia: ! Cecille: Well, I guess you're mentally still a kid, so you wouldn't understand. - -Ebur first visit 2- [Ryfia's Quandary] L'Arc: What's on your mind? Ryfia: How did you know I was thinking? L'Arc: It's easy! I could see it on your face from a mile away! Ryfia: What...? You mean literally? Or are you just speaking figuratively? L'Arc: Ha ha! Figuratively, of course. Ryfia: Oh... That's a relief! L'Arc: So, what was on your mind? I'm all ears. Ryfia: Just about me, and the Divine Race. I wonder why my mother and Hosea never told me. L'Arc: Well... Probably because they never felt they needed to. Ryfia: I want to know so many things. But I don't even know myself... L'Arc: There's plenty of time for that from now on though, right? Ryfia: I guess. It's just... ...Erm, never mind. You're right. I'll just have to figure it out by myself from now on. - -World Map 14- [Promise with Adele] Niko: Adele sure seems fired up. Rastan: ...Indeed she does. Cecille: I feel bad for Prince Alf and the others. L'Arc: That's not really what she's like... Niko: Yeah... Mr. L'Arc's right. Ryfia: Adele is a good person. I remember when I first went to the Martial Arts School. I didn't have any place to sleep, so she offered to give me her bed. L'Arc: Oh yeah, that's right, she did! Ryfia: In the end, we both slept in her bed, and she listened to me talk the whole night long. Ryfia: Well, she probably tried to pry into your life. You know, about Turemilia and such. Ryfia: Actually, she didn't. She asked me about things like clothes and shoes! She said mine were cute and that she wanted to get the same kind for herself. Niko: Typical girl talk. Ryfia: That night, we made a promise to go somewhere together one day and have some fun. I hope we can still do that someday... - [Long Road Home] Ryfia: What a huge bridge... Niko: It's massive! Rastan: It's a proper relic of the past. It still connects our continents to this day. Niko: So, it's been here for a long time? Rastan: I crossed it several times when I was young. Although... the surrounding area's definitely changed. Ryfia: It must bring back memories. Rastan: Indeed it does. Niko: When you were young? That must've been like forever ago! Rastan: Yes... I suppose that makes me a kind of relic, too! Ryfia: I suppose the bridge has seen many travelers on their journeys... Rastan: Yes. Much like the Divine Race, it never sleeps. - -Galois Ravine- [Ancient Battlefield] L'Arc: This place is a very famous ancient battleground. They say you can still find them if you turn up the soil. Niko: Find what? L'Arc: Old bones. Ryfia: Careful Niko! I don't want to make any new friends with old bones! Niko: And I don't want to become new bones myself. L'Arc: You learn something new every day. Niko: Yeah, great! - -World Map 15- [Young Hierarch] Cecille: What's the story with those two? A mild-mannered young missionary and her sword-bearing bodyguard? L'Arc: Do you always answer your own questions? They are probably believers in the old Noire religion. Rastan: They appeared to be well-traveled. Her Holiness has likely been on pilgrimages since she was young. Ryfia: Strange. L'Arc: Hmmm? What is? Ryfia: That Saura person seemed to know me. Cecille: What makes you think that? Ryfia: I feel like I remember her gaze... And her voice too. L'Arc: You're probably just imagining it. Maybe you just look like someone she knows. Maybe you've seen someone like her before, too. Ryfia: Yeah, you're probably right. Rastan: When we meet her in Topazion, you'll have a chance to talk to her then. Ryfia: I suppose... - -Topazion second visit 1- [Been a While] Cecille: It's small, but nice. Niko: But there's nothing here. Cecille: There you go again! Being all negative! The world needs places like this! Niko: Huh? Cecille: A hero needs some place to start her adventure and her epic tale! Niko: So, what? Your little tale is just starting now? Cecille: Well, no... I'm at about the middle of Chapter 5 or so. Niko: Of how many in total? Cecille: Who knows? Niko: Not very serious about it are you? Cecille: Anyway, let's get a move on! We need to get ourselves a Lightship. Stat! Niko: Yeah, yeah. What was I doing when I was her age? When I was 10 or 12... Aaarg! Why'd I have to go and remember that?! - -World Map 16- [Prayer] Ryfia: I'm pretty sure it was around here... L'Arc: You've been here before? Ryfia: Yes... This is where my servants and I... I mean my friends... We were attacked here. L'Arc: I see... So it was around here... Ryfia: L'Arc, can I have a few moments to myself? L'Arc: What's the matter? Ryfia: I'd like to say a prayer for those who lost their lives here. L'Arc: Sure, of course. Ryfia: Thanks L'Arc... - [Black Rain] Niko: That was completely different from Ryfia's shining rain. Rastan: Light and dark. Ray and Hozone... Two opposing existences. No, two sides of the same coin... Cecille: That was Hozone that she was showering down... surprising. She's from the Divine Race, right? L'Arc: Still, who would have thought that Adele could use Hymn magic just like Ryfia? Ryfia: I think the Code of all the previous Divas was engraved in her body when she became the new Diva. Niko: So you mean she took over the Diva's powers? That makes her seem so far away and distant... Ryfia: Huh? I'm right here. L'Arc: ... Rastan: Ryfia, Niko wasn't referring to physical distance, but rather an emotional distance. Ryfia: I might be a Diva, but I don't feel emotionally distant from you. Cecille: Oh, I thought you were doing the whole naive thing again! Niko: ...Right. Just because you're a Diva doesn't mean you're any different, right? L'Arc: Adele, on the other hand... Her heart is definitely in a far-off place. - -Topazion second visit 2- [Serge's Fate] L'Arc: I wonder how Serge is? Niko: He's fine. He's like one of those guys that won't die even if you kill him. Rastan: I agree. L'Arc: Kind of cold guys, don't you think? Rastan: I know Serge. As long as nothing unusual happens, there's no need to worry. L'Arc: Hmmmm... You seem to be pretty confident about him. Niko: You seem disappointed. L'Arc: Wh-who said I was disappointed? Rastan: I trust in you just as much as I trust in him. L'Arc: Oh... I see... Well, I suppose Serge does have his good points. I just hope he's really all right. Niko: I trust you too Mr. L'Arc! L'Arc: No one asked you! Niko: C'mon! Do you have to be so mean?! - -World Map 17- [Niko the Scout] Cecille: Are you sure sending Niko wasn't a mistake? A scout needs to be quick- witted, you know... L'Arc: He'll be fine. Someone cowardly like him is better at staying undetected. Rastan: Those with the weakest knees usually have the most boisterous attitudes. L'Arc: Oh, come on! Don't you start too! Rastan: Niko was here for some time on army matters wasn't he? In that case, he'd know the lay of the land. I think you made a wise choice. Cecille: I'm still not sure... L'Arc: You need to learn to trust people... Cecille: Oh? L'Arc: Now what? Cecille: Hmmm... You really think he can do it, don't you? L'Arc: I'm just giving him a chance to redeem himself. Cecille: Ha! You can't fool me! L'Arc: Take that anyway you want. What do you think about Niko as a scout, Ryfia? Ryfia: Niko can be clumsy, and sometimes he does dangerous things, but I know he's trying his best. L'Arc: Uh oh... Now I'm starting to doubt myself... - -Jada and Dragon Prison second visit- [Misunderstandings] L'Arc: This is where we first met, isn't it, Rastan? Rastan: Indeed it is! I remember being surprised when I saw Ryfia's Dragon Gem. I couldn't believe that a Divine Race girl would be here, of all places.. Cecille: Hey... Did you fight Dynos here? Rastan: Yes, right before we met Ryfia. Remarkable coincidence, no? There aren't that many of the Divine Race here, besides. L'Arc: Well, they were out to kill Ryfia then... Hey, what were you doing here anyway? Rastan: I was chasing Ignacy. Cecille: I was on my way to Diamant at the time, so I guess we were around here. L'Arc: Hmmm... Cecille: Ah, if I'd only stayed in Jada a bit longer, I'd have been able to see Dynos... Then maybe I could've done something... L'Arc: Cecille... Cecille: ...Well, I shouldn't mope about it. Pull yourself together Cecille! - -World Map 18- [Weiss' Secret] Cecille: What's up with Weiss' body? L'Arc: ...Who knows?! I suppose that's why he's so abnormally strong though. Rastan: Being transformed like that must be quite the burden. When we crossed swords, I could tell he was no ordinary man. He seemed desperate. L'Arc: You mean, something's wrong with him? Cecille: His body's not balanced. Balance is the most basic of basics, in health and in battle. L'Arc: ...You're right. Well, there must be some way to help Sir Weiss. Cecille: Huh?! Whaddya mean "help"? L'Arc: Oh, right... He's my enemy right now, isn't he... Rastan: Yeah, but you felt obligation and loyalty toward him. It must be hard to accept that he's betrayed you. L'Arc: ...I guess. Whenever I'm around him, it's like my instincts are telling me to trust him. It's like he reminds me of someone... Cecille: Prince Alf? L'Arc: No... Still, I get all these nostalgic feelings and I just can't hate him. - [Enthusiastic Cecille] Cecille: Sigh... Niko: Looks like Cecille's feeling a bit down in the dumps. Rastan: Well, it must have been pretty upsetting to crash while she was steering. L'Arc: I suppose. I'm a bit disappointed myself. And just after we had gotten off the ground... Ryfia: Cheer up Cecille! It wasn't your fault. Cecille: That's not it. I'm just disappointed. It's been so long since he flew, and I ruined it for him. Ryfia: L'Arc said we can fix it remember? Cecille: I don't know about that. Ryfia: If someone can break it, someone else can usually fix it. Cecille: I guess. Yeah, you're right. In that case, I promise to get him back into the sky as soon as possible! L'Arc: That's the spirit Cecille! Cecille: Alright you guys, let's get this Lightship fixed on the double! - -Ebur second visit 1- [A Chatty Maria] Niko: I'm glad Maria's better now. Cecille: Thanks to the brave deeds of the just hero Cecille, she can speak freely once again! Rastan: Well... I think her own effort had a lot to do with it as well. L'Arc: She could probably go on and on talking and never get tired! She was silent for 10 years after all! Rastan: 10 years... of silence... - -World Map 19- [Two of a Kind] Niko: Can I trust him? He's a crackpot mad scientist, you know?! Cecille: Well, what he says makes sense, and his skills seem to be spot-on... I, for one, believe him! Niko: Still, how about that big booming voice of his...? Cecille: He could scream his head off for all I care. All that matters is that he's helping us! Niko: He kicked me, you know! Cecille: That's because you're an idiot! Niko: What was that?! You little brat! Cecille: Don't call me a brat! Try my Super Secret Garcia Kiiiick! Niko: ...Ouch! L'Arc: If I recall correctly... Weren't both of you hiding behind Rastan because you were scared? - -Gula Church Ruins- [Left-handed Boy] Ryfia: Such a nice building, but it seems so full of sadness... Cecille: Oh? Ryfia: What is it? Cecille: This was painted by a child? He probably painted it in secret so he wouldn't get caught and scolded. Ryfia: A child bearing a sword... It's like he's protecting the girls. Cecille: Yeah. But he's got a mean look to him. Ryfia: Hehe! He does doesn't he? Cecille: But you know, I think I've seen him somewhere before... Hmmm... Looks like he's left-handed too. - [Dragon Descent] Rastan: The Era of Loss... Cecille: Our era, right? Feels strange to call it that... Ryfia: I wonder if I was born then too? If so, then the "Era of Loss" is such a sad name for it. Rastan: Nothing we can do about it. That's when the Feldragons.... well, when the Verct Skywalk crashed, touching off the Hozone floods. We can't change that. Cecille: You're right. Besides, we're making it better now, right? Ryfia: I guess it's appropriate that we're ending the suffering our generations caused. - [Past and Future] Serge: You're always so quiet. You don't have... hurt feelings do you? Rastan: Of course not! Serge: You can be as serious as you want, but that isn't going to change the past for either of us. L'Arc: What are you talking about? Serge: Lost time. L'Arc: Lost? Serge: Things you want to do over or fix... Things time won't allow you to do. Rastan: ...I know that. Too well, in fact. Cecille: See, this is why I hate being around middle-aged men! Serge: Middle-aged? C'mon... Cecille: I prefer to look to the future... evolving into the hero I long to be! Rastan: ...I suppose. Serge: Well, being middle-aged, it's not like you can just do away with your past you know! - -Ebur second visit 2- [The Lost] Serge: What's up with you, Ryfia? You're staring at me... Oh, you haven't fallen for me have you? Ryfia: No, that's not it. Serge: You don't have to answer so fast... Give it some time... Ryfia: ...It was so hard for me, losing my mother and the others. Wasn't it hard for you, Serge? Serge: I did away with those feelings when I lost the freedom in my left arm. Ryfia: Liar. Serge: Everyone has their own way of dealing with things and living. You can choose to heal sadness, throw it away, forget it, or even keep it with you. Ryfia: You really threw it away? Serge: My church friends were my family. We may not be blood-related, but we were still family. I've done away with the sadness of losing my family, but I haven't lost their memories. ...That's all I really need. Ryfia: I still think there's more you aren't saying. Serge: Hahaha! You only truly reach adulthood when you're able to tell a lie and get away with it. - -World Map 20- [Ship to the Stars] Serge: Hmmm... This is a pretty nice Lightship! Even if it is pretty old. Cecille: Hey, don't go touching it without permission! Serge: Yeah, yeah. This time you stand back, Minimal Lady, and let me handle her. Niko: What...?! You're gonna try and fly her? Look at all the weird controls...! Cecille: Well, I wouldn't expect a bird brain like you to understand them! Niko: Wow! You really are a little brat aren't you? Serge: They do say that nothing makes a person crazier than being called out for what they really are. Niko: Hey...! Cecille: It'd be a waste of a Lightship to let Niko fly it. What little bird left in that brain of his would just fly away! Niko: Why, you...! That's it, I'm gonna... Cecille: H-hey, what's the big deal?! Serge: Hey, hey, hey! Whoa, look out, we're listing! Cecille: Kyaaaaaa! Niko: Whoa whoa whoa whoa! - [Making of a Legend] Serge: What's the matter L'Arc? You're staring at me... Oh, you haven't fallen for me have you? L'Arc: Get real. It's just... Serge: My left arm? L'Arc: Oh, yeah... Can't it be fixed? Serge: I told you. It has no effect on my daily life. Those "lightning reflexes" I had are a thing of the past, though. L'Arc: I see. Still, I was a bit shocked. You know, when I heard that the legendary swordsman Leon had lost to Ignacy... Serge: Well, a lot happened back then. Hostages were taken, people betrayed one another... L'Arc: ...Betrayal... Serge: Still, the fact remains that I lost. Sorry if I destroyed your fantasy. L'Arc: Nah, my fantasy was destroyed the second that I realized that you were Leon. Serge: C'mon, you could at least look sad when you say that... - [Cecille - Victory] Cecille: ...Hmmm. Kopin: Is something the matter? Cecille: It's been bugging me for a while, but why do you always talk like that, Kopin? Kopin: Why?! I was just born this way. Cecille: The rest of your kind talk like that too, right? Kopin: Well, we each have our own quirks, but most of us do speak like this. Cecille: Don't you ever feel... like talking another way? Kopin: For example? Cecille: Hmmm... Well, maybe like Rastan. Kopin: As L'Arc says, he does have a rather charismatic manner of speech, but I fear it would be too hard for me. Cecille: Hard, huh? Kopin: Yes, hard. Cecille: Okay, what about Serge? Kopin: No, thank you. Cecille: Niko? Kopin: Absolutely not. Cecille: L'Arc? Kopin: I'd prefer not to. Cecille: Well, what about me? Kopin: I don't want to sound rude, but no. I would like to talk like Ryfia though. Cecille: Why? Kopin: "L'Arc... I... I really like you..." Such a beautiful phrase, no? Cecille: Sorry, I can't let you say that! Kopin: Huh...? Why? Cecille: Because when YOU say it, it's NOT cute! Kopin: I'm sorry to disappoint you. Cecille: Oh well. Anyway, it wasn't much, but I feel as though crushing your dream has made me a Level 3 hero. Kopin: Congratulations. - -Zeifellt Holy Tower (Rogress Hunt)- [Ups and Downs] Cecille: Hey, the roof's falling! That was close! L'Arc: I'd say the roof is the least of our worries. Cecille: Huh? Rastan: We have to go to the top floor, right? Cecille: Ah, the ground! L'Arc: It probably won't collapse, but it looks like the rubble on the ground is blocking the road. Rastan: Well, this is going to be a nuisance. Cecille: This hero's fist will pummel that rubble into dust! Rastan: Just make sure not to pummel away the ground we're standing on! - -Ruins of Hilbert (Rogress Hunt)- [Inevitable Fate] Rastan: Judging by the architectural style, I'd say these ruins date back to the Era of Loss. Cecille: You mean... our time? Wow! So this is what 1000 years will do to something... Rastan: Yes, time is a ruthless beast. Cecille: Do you think... Everything from our time is going to disappear like this? Rastan: Nothing lasts forever. Cecille: Just like death is inevitable? Rastan: Exactly. But not all is lost. Even if material things disappear, history continues, and their memories are carried on by others. Cecille: I gotcha. Hey, that means that we'll become legends, right? Rastan: Perhaps someday people will tell the "Legend of Cecille the Heroic." Cecille: Oh, I like that! That settles it! I'm going to be a legendary hero if it's the last thing I do! - -Ellgode Volcano (Rogress Hunt)- [Death's Doorstep] L'Arc: Watch the steam! Get too close to a fissure and you'll get burned. Ryfia: It's so hot and humid! It makes my skin crawl every time I move. Cecille: It's as if this mountain's alive! Look at the lava all fiery and moving. Niko: It's hot, it stinks, and it makes me sick. There's not one good thing about this place. Cecille: Ugh... My body's covered in sweat just standing here. L'Arc: And it makes you so... thirsty. Let's cut the complaining and get out of here! - -Soliton Caves (Rogress Hunt)- [Running Water] Rastan: ...I feel cold air coming from inside. It must be a pretty deep limestone cave. Ryfia: See that glimmering green stone...? It goes on as if it's leading us straight to Squill. Cecille: It's so quiet. The water sounds like it's being swallowed by the darkness... Serge: The most beautiful of things, making people feel uneasy. Kind of like me! Rastan: ...Let's hurry on, shall we? Serge: Always the serious one, Rastan... - -Opalus 1- [Strange Concepts] Niko: This place sure feels different from Diamant and Carbunculus. Rastan: There's a military academy here. Youngsters from all over Turemilia with dreams of serving in the Army come here. Ryfia: Did you study before you entered the army, Niko? Niko: Not at all actually. Ryfia: Really? You must've been pretty great to get into the army without studying! Niko: Well, it was nothing really. It's actually not that hard to get in. If you're in good health, anyone can be a grunt. The officers have to study their pants off. Ryfia: Grunt? Pants... off? Niko: It means a "low-ranking soldier" and "studying really, really hard." - -Carbunculus second visit- [Lagoon the Cursed] Cecille: How annoying! Serge: Oh, is the Minimal Lady upset? Cecille: Of course I am! Why do I get treated like I'm part of the "Lagoon the Cursed" team? I'm a hero you know! It's totally backwards. L'Arc should be part of MY team! Serge: Well, I'm with you there. If he's revered as Lagoon the Cursed, I ought to be loved and admitted as Serge the Blessed! L'Arc: That'll be the day! Stop fooling around and let's get a move on! Cecille: Ah, then I'm leading! I'm a hero after all! L'Arc: Do what you want. Serge: What's the matter young lad? Are you jealous because my reputation doesn't scare off the ladies? L'Arc: Quiet! You go lead with Cecille! Rastan: Oh, man, L'Arc, those two... L'Arc: Yeah, yeah, I know... They're just worried for my safety. Don't worry about it. Rastan: Well, as long as you understand. He may call you "Lagoon the Cursed," but you don't need to change, okay? L'Arc: What is it with you guys being so uncharacteristically worried about me all the time?! - [Father and Son] L'Arc: Serge, about the Senate... Serge: If you're going to thank me, don't. I'd rather be thanked by a woman... L'Arc: Wow, you never change... Serge: ... L'Arc: Wh-what are you looking at me like that for? I thought you didn't want praise from a guy? Serge: No, I was just thinking... You really are Rex's son, aren't you? L'Arc: Wh-what's gotten into you all of a sudden...? Am I that much like him? Serge: Well, you're a lot NOT like him for the most part! Rex was refined, well-mannered, intellectual, and had good taste. But you definitely have the same meddlesome quality that he had. L'Arc: So you're calling me a troublemaker? Serge: Don't worry! That's what we like about you! L'Arc: Whatever! I'm going! - -World Map 21- [Hidden Potential] Niko: What happens if I push this thing? Cecille: Nothing. It looks like it's broken. Niko: Gah! That's because this Lightship is an old piece of... Cecille: Hey, watch it! This thing's probably just missing some parts is all. Niko: So you're saying you want me to go find some parts like last time? Cecille: Well, not just any old part. Find the right one, and this thing might just wake up, eh? - [The Ailing City] L'Arc: You know, developing an army like this probably costs a pretty penny. Niko: Yeah, I'm a bit worried about war expenses myself. I don't know if we can afford another new tax. Ryfia: What's the big worry? If it's money you need, I can help out... L'Arc: No, it's not us we're worried about. It's the Meridian Empire itself. Niko: The Imperial Army's pretty poor, which makes it difficult to go to war. I barely got by on my measly salary. Ryfia: What if they don't have enough money? Can they borrow from someone? L'Arc: Well, it's not like a country can borrow money. Instead, it collects taxes from its citizens. Niko: It's a special war tax. You have to pay it on top of the regular taxes you pay. L'Arc: It doesn't make things any easier. I heard it didn't happen when Lord Mahat was healthier, though. Ryfia: That is a worry then. The Empire, Elena, and even the Emperor are all sick. L'Arc: That's right... - -Resolvent Iceberg- [Snowy Abode] Cecille: We just keep following this snowy path, right? Ryfia: It's a bit tough to walk on, but it's very beautiful... Rastan: Watch your footing! A single careless step on this terrain could cost you your life. Ryfia: Thanks Rastan. We'll be careful. Cecille: Still, why would someone make an altar in a place like this? Rastan: The permafrost and the human instinct to fear nature likely came into play. The very same instincts that gave us the legend of the Snowy Witch! Cecille: Don't you believe in the legend of the Snowy Witch, Rastan? Rastan: Well, I'm not particularly interested in whether or not the story is true. Most of these such legends are born out of fear of the natural world. In that sense, I suppose the witch is both real and fictional at the same time. Ryfia: Makes sense. The name "Snow Witch" sure seems right to me... I can't be sure if she really exists, or if it's just the power of nature. - [L'Arc and Rastan] L'Arc: Heheh! I guess you were honest from the beginning. Rastan: About what? L'Arc: About the whole Leon business. Cecille and I jumped to conclusions. We thought you were Leon the whole time! Even though you kept insisting your name was Rastan. Rastan: I did, didn't I? L'Arc: And your face, all serious-like. Rastan: I didn't want to shatter your fantasy of Leon... But Serge... he destroyed his own false image as leader of the Lord Knights. L'Arc: I was a bit disillusioned, but I suppose it's not all bad. Rastan: Why not? L'Arc: I can easily picture my father being troubled by him and Grampa Zamuel. - -Opalus 2- [A Hesitant L'Arc] L'Arc: Ryfia, what do you think of Sir Weiss? What could he possibly be thinking? Ryfia: There's no point trying to figure it out. It's a waste of time. Weiss is acting upon his own beliefs, not just for his own benefit. That's why we can't understand his thinking. L'Arc: There must be another reason... It can't just be for the Empire... Something that would spur even him on... Ryfia: Why do you want to understand him so badly, L'Arc? L'Arc: Well, being friends with Alf has a lot to do with it, but he always looked out for me ever since I was a kid. Even after I became an Imperial mercenary, I always felt that he believed in my abilities... Ryfia: I'm sure he believes in you. L'Arc: Well... Maybe. Thanks Ryfia. - [Celebration] Cecille: I refuse to accept it! Rastan: You're upset about Prince Alf getting all the credit, aren't you? Cecille: Well, the Cecille the Brave did all the hard work. With me at the controls! If we hadn't flown to Carbunculus, the reinforcements wouldn't have arrived in time to save Adele. Rastan: I suppose so. Cecille: And... L'Arc did his best too. I feel so bad for him. Rastan: Well, he didn't do it because he was seeking approval from someone. Cecille: I know that. It's just... Rastan: All that matters is that we know what L'Arc did. That'll be enough support for him. Cecille: ...I guess you're right. I know that in my head, but it still annoys me. Rastan: Heh... - -World Map 22- [A Jealous Ryfia] Ryfia: Can I ask you something? Kopin: Me? Why, be my guest. Ask anything you like. Ryfia: Do you like it when people pinch your cheeks, too? Kopin: Well, not really. Ryfia: Oh, I see... Kopin: Is something the matter? Ryfia: Can you keep a secret? Kopin: If that's what you wish. Ryfia: Well... L'Arc always looks so happy when Leslie pinches his cheeks... Kopin: Oh! You're jealous, I see. Ryfia: Jealous? Could that be it...? Kopin: Pinch them. Ryfia: What...? Kopin: Pinch my cheeks. Ryfia: O-okay... Oh, they're so soft... Kopin: People can't resist the way Kopin feel. I was nearly sold as a pet to Meridian nobility because of it. Ryfia: Ha ha! This is kind of fun! Kopin: Pinch them all you like. I'm just glad to make you happy! - [Charming Leader] Serge: It must be nice having such a beautiful ruler for your country. Niko: Agreed! It must be great... Almost makes me wish I was a citizen of the Republic! Cecille: Do you two never learn? This is why you have no luck with women! Serge: You think? Cecille: Leslie hurt you, didn't she Serge? Niko: Wahaha! She's got a point you know! Cecille: Laugh it up, Niko. It's not like you're doing any better! General Freya is always bossing you around. Niko: W-well, yeah... Cecille: I guess you two will never learn... Serge: We just got told off by a kid... Niko: How lame are we...? - [Cecille - Nostalgia] Cecille: Atta girl, atta girl... Ryfia: You really like this ship, don't you Cecille? Cecille: I love it! Rastan: Is it because the layout's nostalgic for you? Cecille: Somewhat. But the view from this window also brings back memories. Ryfia: Oh, I see. Cecille: Now, spirit bursting and quivering with nostalgia, it's time to go for Level 4 hero! Serge: What are you talking about? Cecille: It's a secret! - -World Map 23 (After third Carbunculus visit)- [Parting Ways] L'Arc: (Oh Ryfia... What am I doing...?!) (Getting angry like a little kid...) (Where could she have gone...? To Benetnasch perhaps?) (If she has... She's by herself and doesn't have a Lightship... She'll be walking to the Holy City...) (Oh no! ...Ryfia!) - -Benetnasch second visit- [Where is Hosea?] Cecille: Why did Hosea appear as a hologram? Serge: The Director was killed, the Singing Ministry attacked... Maybe he thinks he's next. Ryfia: I wonder where Hosea really is... Rastan: Well, it has to be a place that's equipped to transmit a hologram like the one we saw... My guess is Lascarde Skywalk. Ryfia: He's probably there because he's terrified of Hozone, being of the Divine Race and all. Cecille: Hmm... it adds up, anyway. Serge: The Skywalk, huh? So the coward hides where it's safe, meddling with the Common Race below him, huh? - -Carbunculus (after Paula and Luna battle)- [Hello from Leslie] Ryfia: Ummm, Leslie...? Leslie: Oh, what's the matter? No need to keep your distance. You're not scared of little old me, are you? Ryfia: Well... It's just that they told me not to get too close to you unprepared... Leslie: Ahahahaha! L'Arc: Huh? What's with the laughing? Leslie: Sorry, it's nothing! You two are just too cute! L'Arc: Wh-what do you mean by that? Leslie: Oh come on! I'm not going to pounce on you! The Director told me to watch you, but I think I'm the one who needs watching around here! L'Arc: Huh? Ryfia: Huh...? Leslie: Teehee, think of it as my way of saying, "nice to meet you." - [Deterrent Beauty] Leslie: Cecille, Rastan, and Leon, huh? Nice to meet ya! Serge: "Lightning Leon" is dead. I thought I told you to call me Serge. Leslie: Ha! Ha! You're cute when you're angry too! Serge: ... Cecille: Wow, he's speechless! You're good Leslie! Rastan: Well, at least this journey will be a quiet one! Welcome aboard, Leslie! Leslie: Teehee, thanks! Just ask anytime you want me to quiet him down. Serge: I can't believe you, Rastan... - [A Vicious Trap] Serge: There's too much testosterone around here! Cecille: What are we, invisible? You've got two mysterious beauties right in front of you! Serge: Come on. I can't possibly lay my hands on you two! Ryfia: Why not? It's just a hand. How about your right one? Cecille: You're giving him a... handshake? Serge: Ha ha ha! That's Ryfia, always the joker! Well, I appreciate it! Cecille: Hey, I know! Ryfia, L'Arc's feeling kind of tired, so why don't you go lay your hands on him? Serge: Oh, that's a nice plan! Now, you've gotta gently caress his hand with both of yours, and stare deeply into his eyes... Ryfia: Okay, got it. Cecille: Ha ha ha! You're terrible Serge! Serge: Not as bad as you, Minimal Lady! Cecille: I can't wait to see L'Arc's reaction! - [Academic Interest] Serge: There's just something about her... Ryfia: You mean Angie? Serge: Keen as always, Ryfia! Rastan: I really don't know about Lord Douglas' assassination. It must be the same with you. With such little information... Serge: No, no! Not that! I was wondering if Mrs. Douglas is the kind that looks thinner than she actually is. Rastan: ...Wh-what are you talking about? Serge: Well, she's the older sister, right? And what a dynamite body! Just think her little sister... Rastan: Is that all you think about? Serge: What? It's just a little bit of intellectual curiosity! Ryfia: Hey Serge? Is Angie made of dynamite? Serge: ...You know, Rastan, I think I know how you feel now... - [A Lingering Taste] L'Arc: Are you okay? Ryfia: I'm fine. I just got a little cut in my mouth... L'Arc: Ryfia... Ryfia: L'Arc... You go first. L'Arc: I just wanted to say that it was all my fault. Ryfia: No, it wasn't. I was the one who hurt Adele... L'Arc: No. I was the one who ignored her feelings... So, it's at least partly my fault. Ryfia: L'Arc... - -Inside a Rogress dungeon for the third time- [Cecille - Setback] Cecille: This place is a little rough, even for a Level 8 hero like me. Serge: Wait a sec Minimal Lady! Weren't you just a Level 3 hero? Cecille: I skipped a few levels! Serge: Ah yes, good old level skipping! I suppose everyone has a stage like that in life. Yeah, mine was about 10 or so summers ago. Cecille: Oh yeah? Serge: She and I were climbing the stages of life, and jumped from "love novice" to "love guru" in one fell swoop! Cecille: Huh. Serge: "Huh?" Is that the only reaction I get?!? Cecille: What? The conversation wasn't going anywhere, so there wasn't much else to be said! Serge: My beautiful memory... tarnished... I don't know if I'll ever recover... - -World Map 24- [Niko's Letter] Serge: Well, it looks like someone has hit their rebellious phase. Rastan: You mean L'Arc? Serge: Yeah. Looks like he doesn't take straightforward kindness too well. He can't deal with things at face value. He's too shy to reveal his true feelings. He's going to lose something special one day if he stays that way. Rastan: I suppose. Still, this is between L'Arc and Niko. Parents shouldn't get involved in the bickering of children. Serge: ...I know that. It's just, it makes me frustrated and anxious. Rastan: Well, you've been there yourself. Serge: ...I just hope Niko starts to be a little more dependable. Rastan: Well, he thought the same thing, too, the other day. Maybe it's a sign that he's changing. - -Diamant third visit- [Cecille - Growth] Cecille: ...I just know it. I'm getting so big! I might not be as big as Ryfia, but I at least want to beat you Leslie! Leslie: Well, have you grown bigger than me already? Ryfia: You think...? I'm not that big yet. Leslie: Well... there's no problem as long as you accept that. Cecille: She's right. I don't know anyone of a higher calibre than you Ryfia. Ryfia: What about Serge? He said he was a high-class guy. Cecille: Yeah, right! He's got so little class, you can't even measure it! Leslie: Teehee, you're probably right! Ryfia: Cecille, if you were a big old empty bowl, what would you fill yourself up with? Cecille: Hmmm... Compassion, I think. Leslie: Why's that? Cecille: Well, being able to understand the emotions of others is what a true hero is all about. Ryfia: I just know you'll become a beloved hero someday. Cecille: Thanks! I'll definitely try my best! - [Zamuel's Will] Cecille: Master Zamuel's Martial Arts School... It must be so lonely there now. Rastan: Well, that's understandable. After all, both of its teachers are gone... Serge: Elena's looking after the school right now, isn't she? L'Arc: Yeah, it's a bit much for my mom to look after. Too bad I'm not there... Cecille: Didn't Grampa Zamuel leave anything to anyone? Rastan: You mean like a will? Serge: Ah, yeah, he told me. Rastan: What did he say? Serge: He said he was going to leave his house to Elena. And the Martial Arts School was to be left to Adele, or Elena if she had gone back to Olquina. Cecille: Wow. Zamuel must have really cared about Elena's welfare. - [Tactical Decisions] Leslie: Have the two of you ever fallen in love with someone? Ryfia: Ummm, w-well... Cecille: Well, that question was kind of out of the blue... Leslie: Well, it's kind of like fighting... The best defense is a good offense. The smallest wound can prove fatal, but you can't fight if you are constantly afraid of getting hurt. Cecille: Okay, so what are you trying to say? Leslie: Assess the situation. Learn when to attack and when to flee. Don't let them think they can easily trick you. Real fighters look for mentors who can give them good experience. Women need to be smart and strong. Cecille: In other words, stay on equal footing with your opponent? Leslie: Exactly. Better yourself and you'll naturally come across a great guy. Ryfia: Are we talking about love? Because all that sounds like tips for becoming a warrior... - [Weiss' Intentions] Cecille: Don't you think Weiss has a bit of a soft spot for L'Arc? Leslie: Oh, well he used to trust him, right? Serge: He didn't hesitate in throwing him to the wolves with the missions in Olquina and Carbunculus, though. L'Arc: Yeah, his attitude changed the instant he found out I was the Child of Eesa... Rastan: Well, one thing's certain... he had an emotional attachment to you. Leslie: That worked to our advantage, no? It led to the cease-fire talks. Cecille: Still, I'd like to ask him the next time we see him. L'Arc: ...Be my guest. I don't really care how he feels, anyway. Cecille: Hmmm... I still wonder though... - -World Map 25- [Remembrance] L'Arc: Hey, Serge. Tell me about some of the contracts the Lord Knights undertook. Serge: Why would you want to hear about that old stuff? L'Arc: Well, there's something I've wanted to ask about for a while. I heard you defeated an entire army division. Serge: Oh, that. That's true and false. L'Arc: What do you mean? Serge: We were just mercenaries. We may have been skilled, but we were no match for an army that big. So we decided that no matter what, we just wouldn't lose. L'Arc: Wouldn't lose? Serge: It was Rex's plan. He said... "If we don't lose. we can tell people we won and make them believe that we've done something great. After all, we're no match for an army division that big." L'Arc: So what did you do? Serge: It was easy. We ran! We only fought small, isolated battles we could win. L'Arc: And then? Serge: We engaged and fell back repeatedly until we'd achieved 25 victories at little cost. Rumor did the rest. L'Arc: That's... incredible! Serge: Yeah, L'Arc. Your father was pretty amazing! Not to mention an all-around great guy. - -Carbunculus again- [Lordly and Knightly] L'Arc: Rastan, were you a member of the Lord Knights too? Rastan: Technically, at one time. Not really, though. L'Arc: Oh. So you won't really know about their exploits, then? Rastan: What makes you interested in that all of a sudden? L'Arc: Well, everyone says that they took on and defeated an entire army division. It's just... I'm Rex's son, but I don't feel like I could ever live up to his achievements. Rastan: ...Ah, I see. Then let me tell you one of the stories I know. One day, a young girl asked the Lord Knights to look for her cat. L'Arc: What? And they took that job? Rastan: Yes. Leon, Zamuel, and Rex took it. I had just met them at that time, but I was forced to go along as well. L'Arc: Ha ha! Some "legendary mercenary"! Rastan: Does that make you feel better? L'Arc: Yeah, a little bit. Rastan: Listen, L'Arc. Rex was Rex, but you're you. It's not about wins and losses, okay? Follow the path you think is right. Understand? L'Arc: ...Sure. - -Batrachites second visit- [Role and Duty] Ryfia: Is it really true...? L'Arc: Weiss... and me? Ryfia: You look confused. L'Arc: You got that right! I don't know what's what anymore. Ryfia: I understand, but right now... L'Arc: I know! My brother or not, right now we've got to save him! - [A Secret Well Kept] Leslie: So those two are brothers. Serge: I didn't think Elena and Rex would keep that secret from us... Rastan: Now I know why he was the Lord Knights' strategy officer. Always something up his sleeve. Leslie: Well, from what I've heard, Rex was a good man, wasn't he? Pretty shrewd, but... Serge: It's still hard to believe that L'Arc is Rex's son. He hasn't inherited much of his father's sense. Rastan: Well, he was able to keep this secret without anyone finding out about it! Leslie: Although, looking back, it does kinda make sense I guess. Serge: Oh? You mean the affection Prince Weiss showed to some random mercenary? Leslie: No, the evil look in his eyes! Rastan: ...Ha Ha! My thoughts exactly. - [So Close, and Yet...] Serge: What's the matter, Minimal Lady? You look down. Cecille: I'm fine. Superb, actually. Rastan: Cecille, you don't have to put on a brave face all the time. You have every right to feel upset. Cecille: ...Gah! Just leave me alone! I... I wasn't even able to talk to him! Serge: There's nothing you could have done. Even we... Cecille: No. This is between him and me. Serge: Well, we messed that up, anyway... Rastan: No, this is Cecille we're talking about. She knows she can trust us. Serge: Even though her words and attitude say she doesn't? Rastan: Yes. She's just having a hard time accepting that she can't save her little brother... - -World Map 26- [Confrontation] L'Arc: How can Alf be so oblivious?! Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc: He was never like this before... Nah... this is him, all right. He's always been stubborn. Ryfia: Alf is closing in on Prince Weiss... If we don't do something, the two brothers will fight each other... L'Arc: I know that. I have to stop them... Weiss is my brother and Alf is my best friend! Ryfia: Let's hurry! L'Arc: You don't have to tell me twice! (Darn you Alf... It's time we settle this, once and for all...) [Leslie Worried] Ryfia: Is the Director all right? Serge: She won't go down that easily. She's a talented girl, after all. Leslie: Yeah... She does have the luck of the devil! Rastan: Well, there's no real reason to worry anyway. The Archon Units are more than capable. Leslie: Exactly. (That darn Shelly... Always making people worry...) (Please, just keep yourself alive...) - -Flagship Percival- [To the Percival] L'Arc: What's happened to the Percival...? How could Alf do this...? Rastan: You must be having a hard time believing what you're seeing. L'Arc: You're right... This was a fortress meant to protect the Empire. It took on droves of Feldragons attacking from the sky... It was a symbol of the Imperial Army. Cecille: L'Arc? L'Arc: Don't worry, Cecille. You don't get this chance every day. Whaddya say we go a little crazy with this ship? Cecille: That's what I like to hear, L'Arc! L'Arc: Great. Let's do it! - [The Flying Palace] Leslie: It's like a palace! Serge: Well, they say that Lord Mahat commanded it himself. Leslie: That makes sense. I didn't think it was very Weiss-like. Serge: I've never met him myself, but Lord Mahat was apparently quite the romantic. Leslie: Did he fall in love a lot? Serge: Not that I ever heard of. That's why I was so surprised to find out about the thing with Elena. Leslie: You were pretty surprised. Both you and Rastan. Serge: Yes, very much so. ...Hmmm? Looks like L'Arc is calling us. Let's go. Leslie: Sure. That boy really needs to learn some people skills! - [Paranoia] Ryfia: This... is terrible... Cecille: They must've... killed each other... Ryfia: Why? How could this happen...? Cecille: They must not have been able to tell friend from foe. Their armor and weapons were both from the Empire. They looked alike, but followed different princes. Ryfia: Still... Cecille: They didn't know if the enemy was coming from in front or behind. On top of that, they were being attacked by their former allies, so... Ryfia: That... That's horrible! Cecille: I'm scared too, Ryfia. But we're okay. You and I are in the same boat until the very end! Ryfia: Let's get going, Cecille! Cecille: Yeah! Ah, that darn L'Arc! He's always going too fast! L'Arc! How dare you leave a hero behind! - [Weiss' Death] Leslie: ...Now all the sins of the Empire will rest on the shoulders of Weiss and his brother. Serge: I guess this means Alf is no longer a prince. Leslie: No doubt he'll take the throne right away. Now he's got to find a way to tell everyone about the Emperor. Serge: Should we clear the air about Weiss, or leave things the way they are? Leslie: I'd say the latter. Mourning the death of the late Emperor will feed the legitimacy of his own rule. Serge: Adele is unbelievable... And she's got some good luck. Leslie: Events seem to be leaning more and more in that direction. Serge: And leaning against L'Arc, I suppose... Leslie: Still... he hasn't given up yet. Serge: He must be pushing himself hard, probably not even realizing it. Leslie: He'll be fine. He just needs the support of a big brother and sister and a lively little girl. Serge: You're pretty fearless yourself, and after going through so much... Leslie: Well, I may not look it, but my heart is actually in a thousand pieces. - -World Map 27- [Stray Sheep] Leslie: We're almost there. Ryfia: Yes. Benetnasch is coming up. Leslie: You don't seem... that anxious. Ryfia: I've got to keep myself together. For L'Arc's sake... Leslie: Yeah. He finds out he has a brother, and the next thing you know, he's gone. Ryfia: He may have done some terrible things, but he's the same as L'Arc and I. Leslie: You think? Ryfia: Leslie... Leslie: I'm not trying to tell you what to feel. It's just... I can't accept it! I can't accept that Weiss was the same as you two. Ryfia: Why not? Leslie: Maybe you had the same goal, but the way you both pursued it made you different people. But I guess it's not really like me to say things like this... Ryfia: I think I understand, although maybe not entirely right now... Leslie: Thanks. My moral compass is still a little skewed right now. I'm not sure if I should be like Weiss, using whatever means necessary to get what I want... Of if I should be more like you two, and take a more careful approach. Ryfia: I guess you're troubled too. It makes me feel a little bit better to know I'm not alone. Leslie: Teehee! That's me, still a little lost child. - -World Map 28 (After Benetnasch and Heading to Zeifellt)- [In Retrospect] Rastan: Don't you think it's dangerous to take Ryfia? L'Arc: Yes, but what other choice do I really have?! Serge: Well, in the Lightship or with us, she's in the same danger either way. But calm down a bit, L'Arc. You can't control everything that happens all the time. L'Arc: I know that, but... She was supposed to take my place! If I'd only been able to keep myself together better... Serge: The same could be said for all of us. I knew that there was something odd about Hosea. Rastan: I failed to anticipate Ignacy's actions... The blame should lie with me. Serge: All right! Enough blame games! We've got to save Ryfia and get out of this place! L'Arc: You're right. There's no point in crying over spilt milk. I've got to try and save her... No, I WILL save her! - -Zeifellt Holy Tower (Story)- [Renewed Resolve] Cecille: Look at L'Arc go! Leslie: He always goes all-out at everything he does. Kind of makes your heart flutter. Cecille: Must be nice to have someone try so hard for you. Leslie: Yeah. Besides, Ryfia's probably fighting too. Cecille: Yeah... And all alone... But we can save her! Leslie: We have to! - [Kopin and Healing] L'Arc: (Hmmm? I wonder what they're talking about?) Kopin: Do you think recovery items can help with chronic fatigue? Or with eyestrain, or nails cut to the quick, or back pain, or bruised hearts? Ryfia: I don't know... What do you think? Kopin: Well, I'm... I'm not quite sure. Ryfia: Yeah, I don't know either. Oh... but... Kopin: Is there something you're not telling me, Ryfia? Ryfia: Maybe I can soothe your bruises. Show me where they are. Kopin: Oh, well... Mine is a bruised heart, so I can hardly show it to you. Ryfia: Oh, I see. It must hurt a lot. Kopin: Oh, indeed. It was the day my friend fell from the sky, covered in mud. Ryfia: That must have been a rough day. Kopin: It was, but that day also brought the most beautiful of mornings. Ryfia: I'm sorry the experience ruined it. Kopin: It was wonderful to meet my friend, but it was also hard to say goodbye. Ever since then, I... L'Arc: Gah, what the heck are you two going on about?! Stop wasting time! Let's get a move on! Ryfia/Kopin: Yes, L'Arc. - -World Map 29- [What Really Counts] Ryfia: ...Hee hee! L'Arc: What's got you so happy? Ryfia: Correction, L'Arc... I'm EXTREMELY happy! L'Arc: About what? Ryfia: Being here, able to continue the journey with everyone. It's hard, but I still have hope in my heart. Plus a bunch of... other things. L'Arc: Other things? Like what? Ryfia: Well... For example... That thing you said to me before. It's keeping me going, even now. - [A True Miracle] Cecille: Hey, guys? Leslie: What's up, little one? Cecille: Hmph. Serge: You know, if you keep pouting like that, you'll never stop being a little kid. Cecille: So what? I'm still celebrating my youth! Serge: "Celebrating your youth," eh? Leslie: You know, Cecille, sometimes you sound a lot like a certain weird old fogey over there. Rastan: Really? I hadn't noticed. Serge: Do all Divine Race talk like that? Rastan: Not necessarily. Leslie: Ryfia's a little bit strange too... Okay, a LOT strange. Serge: Well, she was kind of sheltered. Leslie: Yeah, but that much? How do you grow up like that? Serge: Oh, it's piqued your interest has it? Leslie: Well, not from a female perspective. From an academic one. Serge: Sure, sure, we can pretend to leave it at that. Leslie: Could you? That'd be great. - [Niko's Gratitude] Niko: I'm really grateful to you, Mr. L'Arc. L'Arc: What's got into you all of a sudden? Niko: Well, you saved me from getting picked on by the officers when I was in the army. L'Arc: They weren't picking on you! They were reprimanding you for messing things up! Niko: So why did you save me, then? L'Arc: They liked to talk trash about us mercenaries, so I gave them a piece of my mind. And you ran away while I was doing that! Niko: Well, I still can't thank you enough! You really saved my behind! L'Arc: You really have quite a gift for misreading people's intentions! - [Niko's Admiration] Niko: You're so strong, Mr. L'Arc! Protecting someone to the point of sacrificing yourself... L'Arc: What are you going on about now? Niko: That time when I was almost that Feldragon's dinner... Ryfia: Huh...? Niko: Well, he chopped off the tail of the Feldragon and then distracted it to save me. L'Arc: I was just getting it away from the town. It would have released Hozone if we had killed it there. Niko: Oh come on now, no need to be shy, Mr. L'Arc. I'll never forget it! L'Arc: You just ran away while the Feldragon focused on me! Niko: Oh, look at him get all humble again... Ryfia: This is so great! Niko: Huh? Ryfia: Listening to you and L'Arc talk... It's always so much fun! Niko: Really? Even though he's always picking on me? (It's fun for me too, Ryfia... It's just... I...) - [Beyond Wonderful] Leslie: You're really extraordinarily soft! Kopin: Thank you for your kind words! It's a product of hard work. Leslie: Huh...? You mean, you're not born this way? Kopin: Well, it's mostly natural, but the fruits of my labors have made me even softer. Leslie: You like being stuffed into luggage and things like that, right? Kopin: Yes, I prefer being in dimly lit spaces. Leslie: So, what's this "effort" you're talking about? Kopin: The effort of putting up with constant irritation. Since the beginning of time, we Kopin have always been adept at suppressing anger. However, some irritations even I have trouble putting up with. Leslie: What kind of irritations? Kopin: Please keep this a secret. Leslie: Well, okay... Kopin: It's Serge and Niko's outrageous and inconsiderate behavior... Those two enjoy distorting my face up, down, left and right any chance they get! - -Ferris- [Niko the Rebel] Serge: Well, doesn't Niko look all gallant? Dashing, even! Rastan: Being away from L'Arc must've taught him not to be so lazy with himself. Leslie: Plus, working hard and keeping busy is the best way to take your mind off things. That way, you can sleep at night without thinking about stuff you don't want to. Serge: Another remark full of hidden meaning I see, courtesy of our dangerous lady. Leslie: You think? Rastan: Niko probably has his own demons that he needs to deal with. Leslie: Demons... Serge: It seems like a departure for him, but I guess there's not much we can do to help. Leslie: Well, if it's a guilty conscience that's driving him, I think maybe we should talk to him. Probably wouldn't work though. Rastan: Niko's still young. I doubt it'll take long for him to find the answer he's looking for. Serge: The same goes for you too, right Leslie? Leslie: Hehe, you might just be right! - [Beyond Time] Leslie: Well, that was a shocker. Who would have thought you could turn people into Rogress? Ryfia: Yes... like my father Hardel, who became the Rogress known as Simmah the Liberated... Leslie: Sounds like your mother Ciel had a wonderful relationship with him. Even as his body transformed into a Rogress over a millennium... Ryfia: Perhaps... Leslie: Definitely. Your mother told you to meet Simmah, right? That's your proof right there! - -Ruins of Hilbert (Story)- [Reminiscence] L'Arc: I wonder what happened to the townspeople...? Did they go underground to escape the Feldragons, or did they just get sick of living above ground? Ryfia: Hmmm. Well, Hozone can seep into the ground... This probably wasn't very safe for them... L'Arc: So I guess there was nowhere to run, just like Diamant. If a Feldragon ever fell from the sky... Ryfia: People lived here together. As a family. L'Arc: You mean this place? Ryfia: I believe that's why we have homes, and why people build cities. L'Arc: When you say "family," you're not talking about just blood relations, are you? Ryfia: No. You, me, Cecille, the others... Even Niko... We're a family. - -World Map 30- [Old Friends] Leslie: You're one lucky gal, you know that? You're attacked by QED, and you get your life saved by Weiss! Shelly: Well, I lost sight of him pretty quickly, but he sure was a fierce one! Leslie: What happened after that? Shelly: The Archon soldiers were protecting me, but... Before I knew it, I was alone. Apparently I lost consciousness somewhere by the Millegris River. Leslie: What then? Shelly: The peddler that helped me said he took me to Moon Inn. Leslie: And you were unconscious the whole time? Shelly: Yeah, I only have fragmented memories. I must have started blacking out around that time. And then I... Leslie: You've recovered physically, right? Shelly: I'm sorry Leslie. I'm always such a burden on you... Leslie: It's fine... Teehee, I'm used to it now, anyway! - [Resistance Leader] L'Arc: I guess I'm leading. Serge: What's the matter, kid? Don't you want to? L'Arc: Well, it's just how things turn out I guess. Besides, I don't really see myself as a leader. Serge: Didn't you dream of leading a mercenary group, like I did? L'Arc: Yeah, but you smashed that dream to pieces. Serge: Oh, c'mon! I know you really like me, somewhere deep down! L'Arc: Cut that junk out! Serge: Okay, so what's our goal now, fearless leader? L'Arc: We look for a way to neutralize the Hozone, and try to bring Alf back to his senses. Serge: Then I say we should get a move on. L'Arc: My thoughts exactly! - -Carbunculus once again- [Just Be Yourself] Cecille: Is Leslie one of those girls who's got it going on? Ryfia: Probably. Look how pretty she is! Cecille: Yeah, but it'd take a pretty confident guy to try for a girl like her! Ryfia: Because she's so pretty? Cecille: Yeah. Girls that pretty are generally unapproachable... Leslie: This sounds fun! What are we talking about? Cecille: Leslie?! H-how long have you been there?! Leslie: I don't know who you're talking about, but pretty girls have hot guys chasing them all the time. But being pretty or popular isn't important! What matters is the love of someone you really desire. Ryfia: Really? Leslie: Really! You can be the prettiest girl on earth, but it means nothing if the one you want doesn't look at you. Ryfia: I suppose not... Cecille: Anyway, are you popular with the boys, Leslie? Leslie: Who knows? I've never really thought about it before. Cecille: Ha! I don't feel like she's being completely honest with us... - [The Curse is Lifted] Cecille: Isn't that great, Ryfia? I think Shelly is going to talk to everyone! That should be the end of all that "Lagoon the Cursed" nonsense. Ryfia: Yes... L'Arc is looking for the right path, and I want to help him. Leslie: So young, and so very sweet... Almost has me falling for you, Ryfia! Ryfia: Oh, I've already fallen for you! Cecille, too, of course! Leslie: Really? Yay! What exactly about me did you fall for? Ryfia: Well, you're exciting and strong... and... sensitive. Leslie: Haha! She's got me all figured out! Cecille: Hey, what about me? Ryfia: Well, you're smart, considerate, cute, and... Cecille: And? Ryfia: And you're a hero! Cecille: Aww, now you've gone and made me blush... Leslie: Ha ha! - [Keep Your Cool] Leslie: You don't get to write off every mistake you make just because you're young. Ryfia: What do you mean? Leslie: If you get all emotional and then something happens, you'll have a lot more than just regret. Cecille: She's right. It only takes a single person off their game to spell doom for the entire party. Leslie: Passion is one thing, but... Losing yourself in a moment of emotion and making rash decisions is inexcusable. Criminal, even. Ryfia: Wow, the two of you are very strict! Leslie: Of course we are. Falling in love on a deserted island is one thing, but being selfish is a pain for everyone. Ryfia: Oh... You were talking about love... I didn't realize... Cecille: Me neither... - -Ellgode Volcano (Story)- [Can't Stand It] Cecille: Gross, gross, gross, gross, gross! Serge: Oh, Minimal Lady, whatever could be the matter with you? Did I sound like the Kopin there? Cecille: No, you sounded like you! Serge: What, because we sound alike? Cecille: Whatever... I can't get used to the sulfur smell here. Serge: Well, most people can't stand it. Doesn't seem to be bothering those monsters, though. Cecille: Yeah, they look totally unaffected, but... Aaahhh, it's so gross! It makes my head hurt! - [At All Costs] Rastan: Mt. Ellgode remained active during our 1000-year slumber. Leslie: Yeah. There are records of its eruptions in Carbunculus. Rastan: And Alf's going to make history repeat itself. Serge: I thought Alf had a better upbringing than that... Leslie: It's a surprise to me, too. If we don't do something, a lot of people are gonna die. Ryfia: We have to stop him... Serge: Right, and we're going to! Rastan: Let's hurry! Leslie: C'mon! I'm not going to let him destroy that city! (The same city that HE's asleep in...) - [Clyde's Words] L'Arc: Old man Clyde told me to stop Alf for him... Crazy. Rastan: Sounds like he wants to go down with his master. L'Arc: Why does Clyde need my help? He's Alf's bodyguard. He could stop him whenever he wanted. Rastan: No, he can't. Their relationship has changed since Alf was a child. L'Arc: ... Rastan: Maybe it's pointless to speculate on the thoughts of someone I hardly know, but... I'd wager Clyde has a mission of his own. Some vow that he's made to himself. L'Arc: I... guess... Alf seems ready to follow the gods. Rastan: Yes... L'Arc: Quite the annoying pair they are... Both of them, never willing to compromise. That's really the only thing that hasn't changed about them! - -World Map 31- [Welcome News] Ryfia: I'm glad Niko's okay... L'Arc: Yeah... Leslie: And it looks like he was more of a help than a hindrance for once! L'Arc: Yeah, I guess you're right... Ryfia: What's wrong, L'Arc? Leslie: You should be happy that we finally found Dr. Carlisle. L'Arc: It just feels... weird. I mean, Niko? In the Resistance?! Ryfia: Are you worried? L'Arc: No, I know he'll be fine... After all, nobody in the Empire's better at running away from danger! - [Cecille - Pride] Rastan: You look good Cecille. Cecille: Huh? Oh, thanks. What's with you all of a sudden? Rastan: It just crossed my mind. Don't mind me. Cecille: Okay, I won't... Hey, Rastan? Rastan: What is it? Cecille: You have a daughter, right? Rastan: Yes. Well, had one. Cecille: Oh... I'm sorry. Rastan: No, it's fine. What did you want to ask? Cecille: What's it like to be a parent? Is it fun? Is it hard? Rastan: The night my daughter was born was the proudest of moments for my wife and I. Cecille: Proud... I see. Rastan: Yes, I still remember it to this day. An instant of silence, followed by our daughter's first crying... Cecille: I wonder if I'll feel the same way as you do... Someday in the future. Rastan: Who knows? Perhaps you'll feel it even more than we did. Cecille: Maybe. It's hard to imagine that now. - -World Map 32 (After Soliton Caves)- [Singing Stone] Serge: The Singing Stone of the Holy Land of Noire... I wouldn't believe it if anyone else had told me. But coming from Simmah... I mean, Hardel, I suppose we have no choice. It's Ryfia's father after all... Rastan: I wonder if this Singing Stone is as beautiful as it sounds. Cecille: So it's in the Holy Land of Noire? Leslie: Yeah, spinning out Code from within its core. I wonder how powerful it is... Rastan: People sought after it, hoping to become gods. It must have superhuman knowledge. Leslie: Real... Imaginal... and now Eesa. It seems this god isn't what everyone thought it was. Serge: Oh, you're not nervous are you m'lady? Leslie: I don't know... I can feel my heart pounding! Rastan: As can I. How about you, Cecille? Cecille: Hmm? Oh, I'm ready to go! Leslie: Well, aren't we calm? Cecille: A real fighter knows how to keep it all inside. Rastan: A fine attitude! Serge: Then I say we learn from her. Leslie: Sounds good to me! Cecille: Spoken like true heroes! That's the spirit! - -Diamant fourth visit- [Alf's Reign] Serge: What's been going on with him? Leslie: Alf? Looking back, I suppose there were signs, albeit faint ones. A sense of duty to the point of danger, the need to pursue his own sense of perfection... The fear of not being understood by others... of loneliness. Rastan: His means are different from Weiss', but that aggressiveness is still the same. Weiss invaded other nations to restore Meridia to its former god- slaying glory. Meanwhile, Alf is imposing laws to control the gods and silence their powers. Leslie: Kind of a disturbing attitude for an emperor, either way. Rastan: The House of Meridia is capable of terrible deeds... - [Diamant Under Alf] L'Arc: This... is Diamant? Ryfia: There's no one here. What happened to all the people walking about? Leslie: Turemilia's trying to get rid of the law that allowed religious groups in the government. But Meridia's new charter places restrictions on all sorts of people and things. Ironic isn't it? Serge: Well, people do like rules. Still, this is amazing... L'Arc: Yeah, the city really seems to be on the verge of death. This is not the Diamant that I... that HE loved! - [Allul's Foresight] Ryfia: That woman... She called herself "Allul the Foreseeing"... Leslie: I wonder who she was...? Rastan: So she's the one that controls Noire's warriors! Cecille: You don't think she's the true legendary hero, do you? Rastan: You might say she's the one that unified Fulheim. - [What to Blame] Rastan: People, killing other people... Serge: Are you really that surprised? Rastan: Are you referring to fighting? Serge: I guess. Rastan: I was referring to leaders that oust the people they vowed to protect. Don't you find that odd? Serge: Of course I do! Rastan: Does it make you...angry? Serge: Huh? Well... I suppose. A bit. Angry at my stupidity for not being able to stop Alf before it got this far! - [Niko Kidnapped] Serge: I can't believe that Niko, of all people, stepped up to protect Elena! Rastan: Yes. I never would have thought he'd take on Ignacy! Serge: I just hope he's all right... Still, I wonder where Ignacy crawled out from? Rastan: Under the new charter, movement's restricted into Diamant except for the upper classes. Serge: You think he used us as a decoy? Rastan: That's plausible. Serge: That little... I'm going to settle this! Rastan: ...Uh-oh. - -Lascarde Skywalk- [Lascarde] Ryfia: Lascarde Skywalk... My home... Rastan: You probably don't recognize much of this place anymore. Cecille: You were still little when you were here, right? I doubt you'd remember much. Ryfia: It might be from my father showing it to me at the Zeifellt Holy Tower. But still... I remember seeing some of it. Like that door, and the light down there. Cecille: Does it bring back memories? Ryfia: Yes, a bit. Rastan: Just take your time getting used to it. You might even live here one day. Ryfia: Yes. My home was here once, but I never thought I might live here again. After all, my home was in Benetnasch, and now that's gone... - [Dragon Gems & Us] L'Arc: So now we have to put Dragon Gems on our body, too? Ryfia: Don't you want to? L'Arc: Well... It's just I never even imagined it. So what happens if we lose our Dragon Gems or break them? Rastan: I'm not entirely sure how it works with the Common Race, but I think you'd probably die. Ryfia: Would they not be able to breathe? L'Arc: Who knows? It's not like we can check either way. Rastan: We'll find out soon enough, but for now we should be careful. L'Arc: Yeah, yeah. Got it. - [Deeply Asleep] L'Arc: Man... I can't believe they can do that to the Common Race! Leslie: They really don't like us, do they? Serge: Well, there are some exceptions. Cecille: Yeah, not all Divine Race hate the Common Race. Rastan: Just as there are different humans among the Common Race, so too are there differences among us. Or perhaps it's the overseers here in Lascarde that are different? The human overseers are most definitely chosen with a special purpose in mind. Ryfia: I wonder why no one ever told me I was of the Divine Race... Cecille: Hmmm... Who knows? L'Arc: Ciel probably didn't think it was necessary. Ryfia: Oh, you remembered my mother's name! How nice! L'Arc: Of course I did! Now, let's cut the chat and get going. Ryfia: Sure. - [Brother's Words] L'Arc: "If something should happen to me, look to my brother for help..." Ryfia: Sonia said that Weiss... I mean, your brother said that, right? L'Arc: Yeah, but Weiss meant me, not Alf. Ryfia: You're confused? That's understandable... L'Arc: Yeah, a bit. But I also think this is what was meant to happen. You know, me, walking down this path, and then meeting you in the Retea Forest... Ryfia: Like destiny? L'Arc: I'm not sure about that, but it feels like something bigger than us is involved, don't you think? Ryfia: I wonder if we can change it? It's sad to think that everything is predestined to happen. L'Arc: I think it can... even after we've done everything there is to do. I'll keep on pushing back as long as I can. - -World Map 33- [Sundered Forever] Rastan: We can't let their deaths be for nothing! Serge: You're right. We can hold their memory dear, but we shouldn't look back... Cecille: Whose words are those? Serge: An old friend's. Cecille: Hmmm... "Don't look back..." L'Arc: Adele and Niko... Both were very special to me. Heh. I guess you really don't know what you've got 'til it's gone. I didn't realize how true that is. Leslie: Yeah... These kinds of situations always make you wish you'd done something sooner... Ryfia: L'Arc... I'm sorry. I just... don't know what to say... L'Arc: Don't say anything. If you're sad, then that's enough. That's what friends are for, right? To be there at your side to support you, even if they don't say anything. - [Silence on Board] Serge: You look so sad. Cecille: Ah... do I? Serge: Do you miss hearing him yell, "Let me steer!" and "Stop that!"? Cecille: ... Serge: Don't be so hard on yourself! All you did was teach him how to fly a Lightship. That doesn't mean you killed him! Cecille: ...! Serge: Don't worry about him. He made his choice. No one forced him. Cecille: We should tell her that he died risking his life to protect us. Serge: You mean to General Freya? Cecille: Yeah. Serge: I suppose you're right. Let's leave it up to L'Arc though. He was the one closest to him. Cecille: Yeah, you're right. Serge: You know, sometimes it's okay to just be a kid. You only get to do that once, you know! Here, let me take the controls. Run off for a bit, okay? Cecille: Thanks, Serge. - [Many Possibilities] Rastan: So this is how it looks out to sea. The crystallization is so widespread... Leslie: Is this the world that Real longs for? Cecille: Who would have thought it could expand this much so suddenly? If Alf collects all the Rogress... Rastan: Should Real gain the power of Eesa, the world will be covered with the sight you see before you. Leslie: Alf's serious about this, too. Actually, he's always been... about everything. Rastan: He may appear kind, but he's a man of unwavering will. As an opponent, he's a serious force. Cecille: Let's just try and keep clear of the Hozone's fangs, okay, gal? - [Fangs in the Sea] Cecille: So this is the sight that struck despair into the heart of Imaginal? Rastan: All the capital cities are within reach from here. Diamant, Antrax, and Carbunculus. A warning. Or perhaps... Leslie: You don't think they intend to attack the cities with the Hozone, do you? Rastan: It's certainly possible. Cecille: If this whole continent is a Hozone crystal, then it'll take forever to neutralize it. Leslie: Yeah, Dr. Carlisle said that it takes a long time to neutralize even a small crystal. Rastan: Centuries. Maybe millennia. Cecille: Even though it took no time at all to pollute the oceans with Hozone. Leslie: Complicating things only makes the cleanup afterward that much more difficult. - [Kopin and Support] Kopin: L'Arc's so busy, he always forgets about me entirely. I wonder how many times we've been around Fulheim while I've been stuffed in this bottle? Still, there have been some good things. Ryfia's fingertips come to mind... She asked me, "Kopin, may I poke at your forehead?" To which I fervently nodded in approval. It felt as though Ryfia's fingertips would penetrate through my body. As she did so, her eyes looked at me with uneasiness, flickering like a frozen star. That's when she asked me, "Do you like it when I poke at you?" To which I timidly replied, "It feels as though your finger will pierce right through me. It feels wonderful!" A few days later, I heard L'Arc exclaim in a voice that was neither surprised nor happy... "What are you doing?!" He queried. I believe that it was in that moment, that Ryfia was successful... In piercing L'Arc's heart, that is! - -Verct Skywalk- [Unnatural Nature] Leslie: This is almost like an enormous staircase, what with the coral ledges in a line like this. Rastan: Some of the growth inside this Skywalk is tremendous. Leslie: Indeed, this isn't natural. It's very odd. Serge: I wonder if the Real Gem's back-to-nature philosophy had an effect on this? Rastan: That's certainly possible. The jungle in southern Antrax is expanding, too. That area was a dry, desolate valley long ago. Serge: Are you saying you saw what that area looked like 1000 years ago? Rastan: Indeed I have. - [Niko's Promise] Cecille: I heard from Niko that he promised to protect you, Ryfia. Ryfia: Yes... That's right. We promised to look out for each other, but I failed at protecting him... Cecille: Well, if you'd let me, I'd like to take his place. Ryfia: Okay, Cecille! I'll protect you, too! Cecille: Just promise not to do the same thing he did... Ryfia: You too. Cecille: Promise Ryfia: Likewise. - [Saying Goodbye] Ryfia: The Rogress weren't the only things that Alf left to you. He left more to protect... and you need to live up to that. L'Arc: Yeah, you're right. We've fought to put people's future back into their own hands. Sir Weiss, Alf, me... We all had different ways, but our goals were the same. Ryfia: So you're going back to Eesa... L'Arc: Yeah. Now's the time to see him. The Singing Stone... the god created by man. Alf, Clyde... You had better not die! I'll be waiting for you with Eesa! - -World Map 34- [Heroic Agreement] Cecille: (So you were the only one who grew up, huh...?) (Why didn't you wait for me Dynos? We made a promise...) (Sigh... I think... I'm gonna cry...) (But I don't want them to see...) Rastan: Something the matter? Cecille: Huh? Oh, it's nothing. I was just thinking. Rastan: I see. If there's something you're fretting over alone, feel free to talk to me anytime. Cecille: Sure, thanks. It might be a long time though. Rastan: Then tell me five years from now, before you go to sleep. I can wait until then. Cecille: O-okay. Thanks, Rastan... - -World Map 35 (After final Diamant visit)- [Cecille - Dedication] Cecille: We have arrived in the Holy Land of Noire, where the Singing Stone awaits us! This is just more proof of my status as a true legendary hero! Serge: You must be getting close to becoming a Master Level hero, right Minimal Lady? Cecille: Personally, I think so. Still, I think I've got a long way to go. Serge: On the path to ultimate heroism? Cecille: Yeah. I thought I'd be seeing the light at the end of the road, but it's nowhere yet. Plus, even when you do become a full-fledged master, the path to truth keeps going. Serge: Gotcha. Cecille: Something the matter? Serge: No, I was just trying to express that I completely get what you're saying. Anyway, you got my support, little hero. We'll be depending on you! Cecille: Good. Just leave it all up to me! - -Holy Land of Noire- [Full Circle] Serge: I'm gonna say something that makes me sound like an old goat. L'Arc: And that would be? Serge: Well, well, well, it looks like we're finally here! Rastan: Yeah, I suppose that does make you sound old. Serge: I know, right? If I'm getting old on this journey, it's all your fault! L'Arc: What did I do? Serge: You made me look out for you! L'Arc: I don't remember asking you to! Rastan: You're one to talk Serge! Rex and Zamuel always looked out for you, no? Serge: Well, I guess I really don't have anything to say to that! L'Arc: What's the matter, Rastan? Don't tell me you were protecting me too! Rastan: A bit, perhaps. L'Arc: Ugh! I don't need to be protected! Serge: I think I remember someone saying the same thing long ago... Rastan: What goes around comes around... Serge: It appears so. L'Arc: Stop your blabbering and let's get a move on! - [Gift and Gratitude] Ryfia: Leslie, Cecille... Thank you for always being there for me. Cecille: What are you talking about? You're there for us, too! Leslie: Yeah. You've always been. Ryfia: Really...? Cecille: We're friends. It's all about give and take. Now, and forever. Leslie: Yeah. I'd say we get more "give" than "take" from the boys, though... Ryfia: How come? Leslie: Well, it's all part of the fun! In many senses of the word! Cecille: Oh, what's that? Sounds like there's lots of hidden meaning in that! Leslie: It's all about strategy. The rest, however, will have to wait until you're a bit older. Ryfia: Okay. Leslie: You, though... Perhaps you should learn a bit sooner rather than later. Although, this is HIM we're talking about as your potential partner, so maybe there's no need for that talk. Ryfia: ...! - [Immortality] Leslie: Hehehe! L'Arc: What are you staring at me for? Leslie: Oh, am I bothering you? I was just a bit jealous. L'Arc: Huh? Leslie: Boys have it so easy! They're earnest, straightforward, and so nice that they get hurt just like that. L'Arc: What are you trying to say? Leslie: Just when you think they'll never make up their minds, they prove you wrong, you know? They live life for the now and to its fullest. L'Arc: Huh...? Leslie: Oh, don't look so irritated! It's a compliment you know! - [The Heroic Way] Ryfia: This is all thanks to my father... and all of you, too. Rastan: The 12 Knights of Noire... I can't help but wonder if I had an audience with them 1000 years ago... Serge: I'm a bit curious too... Ryfia: I wonder if my father walked along here, too. Serge: I wouldn't doubt it. It looks like the inside of the Skywalk is pretty twisted, so it probably looked different then. Rastan: They must have entered Noire like this. A peculiar feeling indeed. You certainly feel the flow of time. Ryfia: ...Huff... puff... huff... puff... Serge: Are you okay Ryfia? Ryfia: I'm fine thanks. Let's keep going. My father needs me to. - [Meeting the Past] Serge: Hey, what's the matter? Leslie: ...So you sensed that, did you? Serge: Anyone, with the exception of L'Arc, could see that from the look in your pretty eyes. Leslie: I guess... I must've let my guard down. I have family I left behind... My little sister, in particular. You left family behind too, right? Serge: Something like that. Leslie: She says she wants me to come home, but I don't know if I can. I don't want to make her any sadder than she already is... Serge: I see... I could take on the job for you. Leslie: Job? Serge: Yeah, as Lightning-fast Leon, leader of the Lord Knights. I'll take you back to Carbunculus and your sister, if you like. Leslie: Would you really do that? I mean, if we survive... Serge: Don't talk about that. What do you say? Do I get the job or not? Leslie: Sure, why not? Sounds interesting! What about payment? Don't we need a contract or something? Serge: Your tears will do just fine. Leslie: Are you trying to flirt with me? Serge: Hey, I'm strictly business here. Leslie: Ha Ha! My tears are pretty high-priced you know! Very well. I don't know how soon I'll be able to pay you, but you get the job! Serge: Great! It's a deal then. - MISCELLANEOUS -Visiting Diamant late in the game- [Strong Presence] Ryfia: Shouldn't you be getting back to Elena, L'Arc? L'Arc: Well, no one else has gone back to their homes. I don't want to be the only one. Besides, some of the money he left behind has probably made it there. There should be enough to last. Ryfia: Are you... okay? It must be so hard for you. L'Arc: I told you, I'm fine. Ryfia: I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked... L'Arc: Don't worry about it Ryfia. My mother will be fine. She's way tougher than I could ever be. Ryfia: Yeah... My mother was tough too... - [Journey's End] Cecille: Now that Grampa Zamuel is gone... Serge: Hmmm...? What's this now? Cecille: The heir of the most revered Martial Arts School in all of Fulheim will be... Leslie: Someone's wound up! Cecille: Me! The only choice! Serge: Cecille, are you really going to take over the school? Leslie: It'll be tough you know. You've got to recruit students, and come up with daily training schedules... Cecille: I'll be the headmaster, but just a junior instructor. I'll be asleep in five years after all. Serge: So what are you going to do for an actual instructor? Cecille: I've got someone in mind. Leslie: You don't mean... Serge: That someone-in-mind is right here... Rastan: What is it Cecille? Why are you looking at me like that? Is there something on my face? Cecille: No, that's not it. The truth is... - -Visiting Antrax late in the game- [Forgiven at Last] Rastan: What do you intend to do? Leslie: Huh...? Oh, you don't usually talk to me, so I was caught a little off guard. Anyway, what do you mean? Rastan: From here on in... What are you going to do? Leslie: Well, that's a bit optimistic, don't you think? Or did you forget that we're facing destruction? Rastan: Hehe! Well, I've become a little optimistic ever since discovering L'Arc and Ryfia. I've been thinking more about the future too. Leslie: I guess that wishes don't come true unless you have something to hope for. For me... There's something that I'd like to take back. Rastan: In the past? Or now? Leslie: Well, I can't take back what I've done in the past, but I can take back my love for a certain someone. I think I can finally accept it. I'd also like to take back my relationship with Angie. Rastan: So go visit. Or perhaps I should say, "Go home." Leslie: You're right. Here's hoping that I'll be able to someday! - -Visiting Ebur late in the game- [A Legend is Born] Cecille: I've seen it before... L'Arc: Seen what? Cecille: It was long before I met any of you... at Gula Church near Ebur. Ryfia: You mean that picture? Cecille: Uh-huh. L'Arc: What kind of picture is it? Cecille: It was a painting hidden in the shadows. A boy and two girls. You know, I think they're... Ryfia: Serge, Maria, and Selena? L'Arc: Selena was Maria's older sister and Serge's fiancee... Cecille: I knew it... You think it's them too Ryfia? It looked like the boy with the evil eyes and the sword in his left hand... Ryfia: Was protecting the two sisters. L'Arc: Yes... That must be it! Ryfia: Must be what? L'Arc: The reason that he... That Serge became a mercenary! Cecille: You mean he did it to protect Maria and Selena? Hmm... I guess you're right. L'Arc: Does he know? Ryfia: I'm sure he remembers. You could see where someone wiped away the dust on it. - -After getting the first Lightship upgrade- [Loyal Servant] Cecille: Hehehehehe! Serge: What now? Leslie: Why's she smiling? Ryfia: I wonder what's wrong? L'Arc: She's just happy. Rastan: Sure looks that way! Cecille: It's done! Now the Cecille the Brave will come to her master, wherever I am! Yay! Serge: "Yay," she says. Leslie: You don't see her get so excited that often. Ryfia: It's nice to see Cecille so happy. L'Arc: Yeah, and this'll make transport a lot easier for us. Rastan: I dunno about this... Cecille: Hmmm, where to next? Opalus? Ferris? L'Arc: Wait just a darn second. Where are you planning to take us? Cecille: Oh, I don't know... Maybe I'll let my heart be my guide? L'Arc: C'mon, Cecille, cut that out! Cecille: Waaaaaah! The big, scary man got mad at me! L'Arc: Who you calling a "big, scary man"?! - -After getting the second Lightship upgrade- [Lovable Servant] Serge: You know, I may be just a boy at heart... But I'm nothing compared to her. Serge: Well, she is just a little girl. Cecille: I'm gonna make you look all pretty today too. If you start to feel bad, just boom and shake around and give me a warning, okay? Serge: Boom and shake? Just make sure we don't crash! Cecille: Why would she crash? She's back to full strength now! If you get sick, don't you worry. We'll take you to see Mr. Grantz. Leslie: She's infatuated with it... Serge: It's like she's her mother. Cecille: Good girl, good girl! - -After bonding with Mashgar- [Big Birdy] Cecille: I think I get why Mr. Grantz is so obsessed with Mashgar. We have conquered the King of the Skies! Doesn't it feel great to be riding in a Lightship blessed by fate? Serge: It didn't feel too great when we were chasing it though. Thinking about it still makes me feel all woozy... Cecille: Ah, sorry about that, but it was the only way to catch him! Serge: I know, but it was still pretty nasty. I don't think I wanna do that again. Cecille: Really? I'd take on a battle like that any day! Serge: ...Ungh, uh-oh. I think I'm gonna be sick for real this time! Cecille: It'd sure be great if Mashgar got away from L'Arc though! - -After bonding with Kudoan- [Cute and Cuddly] Ryfia: Kudoan is so cute... L'Arc: Huh? That little beast? Leslie: Kudoan was a person once, right? A hero of Noire. I wonder what he was like? Cecille: Why are you looking at me? A small person doesn't necessarily turn into a small Rogress. Maybe he was a sword master like Rastan...? Ryfia: Rastan turning into Kudoan...? Leslie: Don't be silly Ryfia! Cecille: If I were to become a Rogress, I think I'd be like Girtab or Absin! Leslie: And what in the world is your reasoning behind that? Cecille: Just 'cause! - -After bonding with Allul- [All that is Lost] Serge: Ah, what a waste! Cecille: What's up? Serge: I can't believe that gorgeous Ms. Allul turned into a boring stone! Cecille: What'dya mean "boring stone"? This is really important! Serge: Escaping the shell of the body is one way of acquiring eternal beauty... Still, even when I grow old, I think I'll still have the beauty of a well- seasoned, mature man. Cecille: ...I think we're getting off topic... Serge: In any case, it's too bad. - -Infinite Maze of Allwise- [Allwise - Cue] L'Arc: Wow... What is this place...? I couldn't really tell from the outside, but... Ryfia: It's almost as if we're inside a starry sky. Like we're at the center of a vortex in the night... L'Arc: Yeah, I get what you're trying to say. It's an unbelievable sight, to say the least. Ryfia: So strange, yes beautiful. L'Arc: First things first, what say we look around? I can't wait to see what's ahead! - [Allwise - Sustenance] Cecille: Gosh, I'm so hungry! L'Arc: You just ate! Besides, how can you talk about food in a place like this? Cecille: Hey, I'm still growing! Rastan: If we only had some rations... Cecille: I HATE rations! Those aren't fit for human consumption! Rastan: Well, they're high in nutrition, and they fill you up. Cecille: They're all dry, like pieces of paper. Then when you put it in your mouth, they get all gooey and gross! L'Arc: Is it actually food? Rastan: I don't mind them myself... They were priceless treasures when I was young. Cecille: Yeah, but food is meant to be enjoyed good company and all that! Rastan: No, I get that. L'Arc: Yeah, when it comes to food, the more the merrier, I say. Cecille: I know, right? I don't care how nutritious it is, tasteless food can't be good for you. ...*Grumble* L'Arc: Stop faking that sound with your mouth. Fine, let me think of something. Cecille: Yay, thanks L'Arc! You may be moody, but you're really a good guy! - [Allwise - Relationship] Rastan: Is this the end of the world? Or perhaps the far reaches of the sky? Serge: It is rather strange, isn't it? Rastan: Strange? That's the best word you can think of to describe this place? Serge: Okay, so how would you describe it? Rastan: A spatial oddity replete with an entity resembling an aurora or a surging sea. Peculiar, no? Serge: I guess. Ha ha... What's got you all giddy Mr. Rastan? Rastan: I'm not sure. Hmmm... Giddy, you say? Perhaps I am! Serge: I knew it! You're a romantic at heart! A terminal case. Rastan: What does that have to do with this? Serge: Hmmm... Nothing really. I just felt like saying it. Uh-oh... Ryfia's looking this way all confused. Anyway, let's go. Rastan: Very well. - [Allwise - Mutual Good] Leslie: When you look at us like this, we're all from different generations. Cecille: Yeah, that's true! We're all what, five years apart? Ryfia: Yes. Leslie: Well, the two of you have 1000 years on me, but... Mind if I play the baby sister for a minute? Ryfia: Not at all Leslie. Cecille: No problems here either. Leslie: Yay! Hmmm... Maybe I'll give you two a big hug! Ryfia: Ahh! Leslie: Look at you two, all snuggly! Cecille: Aww! Leslie: You two have such soft skin. This feels... great.... Ryfia: This is what being a little sister is? Cecille: I'm not sure, but Leslie looks happy, so it's all good. Ryfia: I suppose. Leslie: Well, that felt great! Thanks you two! Ryfia: You're welcome. Cecille: Anytime. - [Allwise - Closure] L'Arc: Ha! Ha! Cecille: Hmmm? Did you just laugh? What's the matter? L'Arc: Ah, nothing. I was just thinking to myself, "L'Arc, what the heck are you doing in a place like this?" Serge: Well, this place is pretty crazy, that's for sure. Rastan: Maybe "chance" is the appropriate word. It was chance that brought us together and took us here. Leslie: You mean like fate? Hehe, we were friend and foe to each other. Kept us pretty busy don't you think? Ryfia: Well, our busiest time has yet to come! It's not over yet, right? Cecille: I wonder if it ever will be. Ryfia: I'm not sure. No one will ever know... Serge: I say we keep going. Rastan: I agree. Cecille: Likewise. Leslie: No argument here. Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc: Yeah, let's go! To the end of the road! - -After completing the Infinite Maze- [Return of the Hero] Cecille: Hey, Rastan! Rastan: Hmmm? What's the matter? You look flustered. Cecille: A hero that saves the world from destruction would be pretty great, wouldn't he? Rastan: Indeed. That is someone I would call a true hero, with his name preserved in legend. Cecille: You know, I always wondered what happens to heroes after they save everyone. How they live their lives afterwards and all that. I can't even begin to imagine what they do! Rastan: That's simple. Cecille: Huh? Really? Rastan: Yes, heroes go back to their everyday lives. Nothing more, nothing less. Cecille: That's it? Rastan: Yes. They find a place to live, cross paths with others, grow old and die. Cecille: Isn't that a bit... Rastan: Boring? Cecille: No, I was going to say "difficult." I mean, compared to such a big adventure... Rastan: I suppose. Leading a normal life is more difficult than people think. That's why people struggle with the monotony of everyday living. Cecille: So everyday life is an adventure too. Rastan: For me, at least. Cecille: Well, me too, I guess. Thanks for talking with me, Rastan. Rastan: My pleasure. Cecille: Back to a normal life, huh...? - [----------------------] [Costume Skits----(CSS)] [----------------------] "Costume Skits" are Skits in which characters wear different outfits than their usual attire. In order to trigger these Skits, you must have the clothes the characters wear in the Skits in your inventory. The exceptions to this rule are certain "Inn" skits and the "In the Director's House" skits, which reward the player the indicated costumes upon viewing. I have listed what outfits the characters wear in each Costume Skit. I also differentiated regular Skits from Costume Skits with dashes included in the title brackets. It's important to note that if a character appears in a Costume Skit but is not listed as wearing any specific costume, it means that character wears their default costume the entirety of the skit. [-----------------------] [-Costume Skit Contents-] [-----------------------] -After Mandelro Coast- 01. Admiration 02. Knight and Nurse 03. Made-to-Order 04. Left Out in the Heat 05. Antrax Inn 1 06. Personal Touch 07. Carbunculus Inn 1 08. Grumpy Menagerie 09. Kopin in Art 10. Girl and Shepard -After getting the Lightship- 11. Carbunculus Inn 2 12. Bustling Streets 13. Cecille the Detective 14. Legend vs. Reality 15. Knack for Fashion 16. Secret Ambitions 17. A Brief Respite 18. Custom-made 19. Snowy Ambition -After going to Resolvent Iceberg- 20. Overly Complicated -After getting the "letter" from the Senate in Carbunculus- 21. Mature Trio 22. Lovely Trio 23. Antrax Inn 2 24. Glamorous 25. Rest and Assault 26. Kopin Reflects 27. Party Buff 28. Dressing Up 29. Ryfia's Painting 30. Just a City Boy 31. Not Too Honest -After going to Ellgode Volcano- 32. In the Director's House 1 -After going to Soliton Caves- 33. In the Director's House 2 34. Cadets in the Snow 35. Out of the Blue -After getting a pass in Diamant- 36. In the Director's House 3 37. Discontent -After the events in Diamant Castle, before going to Lascarde Skywalk- 38. In the Director's House 4 -After going to Lascarde Skywalk- 39. The Good and Old 40. A Familiar Dress 41. Diamant Inn 42. One-sided Victory -After going to Verct Skywalk- 42. In the Director's House 5 43. Clowns 44. Urgent Business 45. Dark Shadows -After clearing the game- 46. Bride and Groom 47. Truly Exceptional 48. The Infinite Maze -After Mandelro Coast- -[Admiration]- Location: Inside ship -Costumes Alf= School Leader Adele= Class Leader Alf: Adele! That looks wonderful on you! Adele: You think...? Hehe, thanks! You look a little... Well, not quite what I had expected. Alf: You don't like it? Adele: It's not that, it's just... You look cute in a younger-brother sort of way. Alf: Younger, huh? Perhaps I should call you Miss Adele, in that case? Adele: You're making me blush... Alf: What's the matter? Adele: No one's ever called me that before, so it just made me feel a bit embarrassed. Alf: If we, I mean you, L�Arc, Niko, and Ryfia... If we were students at some school, do you think we would have been friends? Adele: You mean if you weren't a prince, and L'Arc and the others weren't soldiers? Alf: Yeah. Adele: Hmmm... I suppose it wouldn't be much different than it is now. You know, with Niko chasing after L'Arc... Alf: and L'Arc pretending to be annoyed by it when he really isn't? Adele: Hehe, exactly! Alf: Ryfia would probably be a transfer student. Adele: Hehe, she certainly fits the bill. Alf: What about us? Adele: You'd be the boss, and I'd probably be your lackey. Alf: You think? Hehehe... Adele: What's the matter? Why are you so happy? Alf: It's nothing. I'm just having a good time! Adele: You're weird, Alf! Alf: You got that right! - -[Knight and Nurse]- Location: Inside ship -Costumes Alf= Mystery Armor Adele= Mystery Nurse Alf: I wonder where these clothes are from... They look a lot like knight's clothing... Adele: They look pretty good on you. Alf: Really? That means a lot coming from you. Those nice fresh clothes look good on you too! Adele: Hehe. Thanks. Alf: Orderly clothes... maybe? They're not from the Imperial Army. Not Olquinian or Turemilian, either. Kopin: You both look lovely. Alf: Hey... Adele: You've been there the whole time, haven't you? Kopin: Yes, I was balled up over there in the dark. Alf: Th-thanks... You know, for the compliment. Adele: Hey, do you know where these clothes are made? Kopin: No, unfortunately I don't. Adele: I see... Kopin: But... Alf: But what? Do you know something? Adele: Please, tell us. Kopin: ...Of course. For some reason, they seem oddly familiar to me. Alf: Kopin's right. I think I've seen them somewhere before too. Adele: Familiar...? Perhaps you wore them long ago... Alf: Huh? Adele: Oh, never mind. That's silly. Why would I think something like that...? Alf: Anyway, let's go. L'Arc will be angry if we're late. Adele: Okay. - -[Made-to-order]- Location: Inside ship -Costumes Adele= Matching Dress (starts out in her original outfit) Alf: The name on this luggage tag... Adele: Is something the matter? Alf: Yeah, the ink is bleeding a bit, but you can still make out "Zamuel's Martial Arts School." Adele: Huh? Luggage headed for home? Alf: Maybe it was stolen by pirates. Where did it come from? Adele: From... the Turemilian Republic Alf: Turemilia? Isn't that where Ryfia's from? Adele: We can open it, right, Alf? Alf: Huh? Sure, don't see why not... Adele: Hehehe, here goes nothing... ...Huh? Alf: What's the matter...? Oh... Adele: I can't try this on! Alf: Aw, come on... You look great. (Adele tries on the outfit) Adele: You think...? It's not too loud...? Alf: It's cute. Adele: Really? Thanks. But I wonder why Grampa ordered something like this. Alf: It was probably a gift, no? Adele: Maybe... I wonder if grandpa is okay... Alf: This is Master Zamuel we're talking about. He's probably fine by now. Adele: Yeah! You're probably right! - -[Left Out in the Heat]- Location: Worldmap, beach near the ship -Costumes L�Arc= Blue Swimsuit Ryfia= White One-piece Alf= Cocoa Swimsuit Niko= Retro Swimsuit Adele= Polka-dot Serge: Boo hoo hoo... Kopin: What does that sound mean? Serge: It's my expression for sadness and anger. It's for the kiddies that leave me alone to play on the beach. Kopin: Sometimes I get sad too. Serge: I see. Kopin: Although, I don't get angry... Serge: Well, that's good. Kopin: Thank you. Adele: Hey, what are you sulking for? Alf: It's just... Don't you feel bad for him? L'Arc: Bad? He's a former thief! I thought we could give him a chance and let him care of Kopin and the others. Niko: I guess he should be thanking us then! Serge: You are right, gentlemen! You have my eternal gratitude! Ryfia: ... Serge: Although, I didn't expect you to be the type to wear a bathing suit, Ryfia. Adele: I talked her into it. She said she'd never been in the ocean before! Alf: Besides, more people means more fun! Serge: I'll sit this one out. Alf: And with that, I bid you adieu. Kopin: I'll stay here too. Niko: Well, the water would put out your flame, wouldn't it? Kopin: That's not a problem. I float! Ryfia: That's so cool! Kopin: Yes. I am cool! Serge: All right, that's enough rambling! If you're going to swim, then go! Shoo, shoo! Alf: Ahaha, your loss Serge! L'Arc: Let's go Adele! Adele: Okay! You too Ryfia! Ryfia: Coming! Niko: Hey! What about me? Adele: Yay! I love the ocean! Ryfia: It sure does feel nice. Niko: Wahoooooo! Serge: Sigh... Kopin: I guess it's just the two of us. Serge: Man, I'm so pathetic... - -[Antrax Inn]- Location: Antrax: Finite Sparkle Inn, Suite -Costumes L'Arc= Tank Top Ryfia= Iris Nightgown Alf= Cotton Pajamas Adele= Dark Nightgown Alf: Hey L'Arc... L'Arc: What is it? Can't you sleep? Alf: I just laid down right now. L'Arc: So what is it? Alf: What kind of girl do you like? L'Arc: Huh? Why do you ask that all of a sudden? Alf: For example, Ryfia and Adele... Which is more your type? L'Arc: Don't be stupid! Go get some sleep, okay? We're up early tomorrow. Alf: Come on... Don't be shy! Tell me! L'Arc: I-I'm not being shy! Alf: Then answer the question! L'Arc: Well then... Adele is like a little sister to me. Alf: So Ryfia is more your type? L'Arc: I mean... You know... I've never met anyone like her. Alf: Hmm... Is that all? L'Arc: What about you then? (Adele and Ryfia enter the boys' room) Adele: Ryfia... You should knock before you come in! Ryfia: Oops... I'm sorry. L'Arc: What's up, you two? Alf: Couldn't you sleep? Adele: She couldn't stop thinking. L'Arc: What's wrong, Ryfia? Ryfia: It's just... Meeting you, a Child of Eesa and all... L'Arc: That again? All right, sit on the bed. Alf: You too, Adele. L'Arc: Listen, we can talk a little and then it's back to bed, okay? Ryfia: Okay. Adele: Hehehe, it's been a while since we did this. Alf: No, we haven't Not since we used to stay at Zamuel's Martial Arts School. L'Arc: Adele and I had to sleep on the training hall floor. Adele: Yeah. Even though L'Arc's house was next door and my room was on the floor above. Alf: It brings back memories... Hm? L'Arc... L'Arc: What? Alf: Keep your voice down. Look at Ryfia... Adele: She fell asleep already... L'Arc: Heh. Figures. Alf: Must've been tired. Adele: She's not used to being outside. L'Arc: I'll sleep on the floor. Alf: Then I will too. Adele: Why? Alf: You're going back to your room alone? You can sleep on my bed. Adele: I see... Thanks, Alf. Alf: Since you're here, let's talk about old times. Adele: Okay... L'Arc: You two do what you want. Adele: Oh L'Arc... So what should we talk about? Alf: Let's see... Do you remember that summer five years ago? - -[Personal Touch]- Location: Antrax -Costumes L'Arc= Pilgrim's Robes Ryfia= Pilgrim's Robes Alf= Pilgrim's Robes Adele= Pilgrim's Robes Niko= Pilgrim's Robes Serge= Pilgrim's Robes L'Arc: Hey, we're not really going outside like this, are we? Serge: Pretending like we're pilgrims is in our best interest. Niko: Ooh! Lookin' good, ladies! Adele: You think...? These clothes are rather pretty, aren't they? Ryfia: You should wear your clothes properly, Niko. Alf: Yeah... You are dressed a bit slovenly. Niko: What?! Seriously?! Alf: Look at how sloppy you are! Niko: I don't think so... This is just my style. L'Arc: Enough. Just don't draw attention to yourself! - -[Carbunculus Inn]- Location: Carbunculus, Seven Stars Inn, Suite -Costumes L'Arc= Tank Top Ryfia= Iris Nightgown Cecille= Aqua Nightgown Rastan= Nightwear Cecille: Can I come in? Niko: Huh? L'Arc: Cut that out! It's Cecille. Go open the door. Niko: Hold on... (Niko opens the door) Cecille: I can't seem to fall asleep... Rastan: You had a nightmare? Cecille: No, it's not that. I've got Ryfia, too. L'Arc: Come in and shut the door. People will hear us. Cecille: You're right. You too Ryfia. Ryfia: ... L'Arc: Ryfia and Niko, you haven't slept much, have you? Ha ha ha... Rastan: Cecille, you can come here with Ryfia. I'll give you the bed. Cecille: Thank you! Rastan, you're so sweet. (Later that night...) Niko: (snort, snort) L'Arc: Gosh... He snores like a pig! Cecille: On the other hand, Ryfia sleeps like an angel... Rastan: She's probably under more stress than any of us realize. She's got quite a burden to deal with... Cecille: You've got one too now, huh, L'Arc? L'Arc: So I hear. Cecille: Doesn't it stress him out? L'Arc: Not really. He's not the type to stress. Cecille: Wow. Are you some kinda bigwig or something? Rastan: Hehehe... Maybe. L'Arc: Well, thanks for saying that. I'm going to sleep. Cecille: Oh, my apologies. Please, go ahead. Rastan, do you mind if we talk a bit? I want to discuss something... Rastan: Sure. Cecille: Thanks. L'Arc, you can go to bed, good night. L'Arc: Nice way to treat a friend. See you tomorrow. - -[Grumpy Menagerie]- Location: Beach west of Benetnasch -Costumes L'Arc= Silver Wolf Ryfia= Avian Costume Niko= Kopin Costume Rastan= Bear Costume Cecille= Squirrel Kopin: My apologies. L'Arc: Whatever, it's fine... Ryfia: You don't have to apologize. Everyone makes mistakes. Niko: She's right! Cecille: You're one to talk! Niko: I don't think we've ever had to put out a fire lit by your head before! We managed to get all our things soaking wet in the process. Ryfia: Yeah... Kopin: I'm so ashamed. Rastan: ...Sigh. Cecille: Look, now Rastan is all down in the dumps. Ryfia: Are you all right? Rastan: Huh? Yeah... L'Arc: ...I g-guess these clothes can be good sometimes. Cecille: Such as? L'Arc: Well, the monsters won't come near us! Cecille: I suppose. Besides, we've got two helpless pieces of bait with us! Niko: Who you callin' bait?! Kopin: Me. Niko: Huh...? Kopin: I'd gladly be bait for the monsters to protect you all. L'Arc: Really? Then it's settled! Niko: Hey, wait a minute! - -[Kopin in Art]- Location: Any Moon Inn -Costumes Ryfia= The Artist Kopin: That looks nothing like me! There is absolutely no resemblance! L'Arc: ...Hehe! Really? Because I think there is... Hehe... Niko: Yeah, especially right around here! Bwahahahaah! Kopin: I'm so ashamed! Ryfia: Sorry... They said I had to draw something if I was wearing these clothes. L'Arc: Don't apologize. He was so into it, he was even posing! Kopin: I was doing nothing of the sort! Niko: You were standing there with your feet crossed... Ahahahaha! Ryfia: Sorry... Where did you say it wasn't right? Kopin: The eyes. L'Arc: They do so look like your eyes. I could draw them with my eyes closed! Kopin: They're too far apart! Niko: So are yours! Ryfia: Here, let me fix it. Kopin: No, there's no need. They all seem to think that it looks like me. Besides, I think Niko should be the next to get drawn. L'Arc: Oh, that's a good idea! Have her draw you Niko. Niko: Huh? What? Ryfia: Oh, that's okay. He doesn't want... Niko: Oh, no! That's not it! I'd love for you to draw me! (You little...) Kopin: (Hehehehehe...) - -[Girl and Shepard]- Location: Ebur, North Hill -Costumes L'Arc= Boy on the Hill Ryfia= Girl on the Hill (In the Manufactory area of Ebur...) L'Arc: So these are traditional clothes from around Ebur. Ryfia: Really? I wouldn't know. L'Arc: Well, apparently Kopin heard it from some travelers, so I wouldn't put too much stock in it. Kopin: Are you doubting me? Or the travelers? L'Arc: Both. Kopin: That's a little undeserved. Ryfia: It's okay, I believe you. Kopin: Thank you very much. L'Arc: So, what's the deal with these travelers? Kopin: The young sheepherder and a girl wearing a red hood told me a story. Ryfia: A story? Kopin: An old family legend, if you will. One that has been passed down for generations, apparently. L'Arc: What was it about? Kopin: It's quite frightening... Are you sure you want to hear it? L'Arc: Oh, it wasn't some kind of happy love story? Kopin: More like spine-shivering. Ryfia: Spine... shivering? L'Arc: Just give us the short version. Kopin: Long ago, in a far-off place... (Kopin tells them the story) L'Arc: You've got to be kidding me... Ryfia: I'm so scared... Kopin: No one knows to this day whether these events actually transpired... But, after the young man killed his own grandmother, he said this to his daughter. "The reason I killed her? Well... because of your red hood, of course..." Ryfia: What?! I'm so not wearing this outfit ever again... - -After getting the Lightship- -[Carbunculus Inn 2]- Location: Carbunculus, Seven Stars Inn, Regular Room -Costumes L'Arc= Tank Top Ryfia= Iris Nightgown Cecille= Aqua Nightgown Rastan= Nightwear Serge= Silk Pajamas Serge: Arrrrr... Niko: Somebody's in a bad mood... L'Arc: How can I? There's no rooms. Serge: You want me to sleep with him? Are you insane? Niko: Let's draw straws. The losers have to take the floor. Serge: Rastan and I get the floor. You should respect your elders. L'Arc: Ahhh, shoot! Rastan: You guys can't sleep? Niko: I'm going to bed soon. I'm getting so sleepy... Serge: I changed my mind! I want to sleep there! Niko, give me the bed! Niko: Hey! What are you doing?! Stop it! (Ryfia and Cecille enter the room) Ryfia: Oh, sorry. I forgot to knock. Cecille: This is a nightmare! Sergeant Niko... Niko: W-Whoa! Hey, this isn't what it looks like! I'm the victim here... Serge: That's right, this is about who wants to get into this bed. Cecille: Well, that part seems to be covered. Serge: Stop looking at us with such suspicious eyes. Ryfia: You two seem to get along just fine. Niko: Ryfia, it's not what you think... Rastan: Did you two want something? Cecille: Well, we were going to ask about tomorrow, but forget it now! We're going back to our room. Good night! Ugh, I hope I don't have nightmares now! Ryfia: Good night everyone. Rastan: Good night. L'Arc: See you tomorrow. Serge: Sweet dreams. Niko: Good night. (The girls leave) Serge: Now let's get some rest! Niko, get out of my bed... Sigh... Niko: Don't get comfortable here. I said to get out! - -[Bustling Streets]- Location: Carbunculus, Opera Boulevard -Costumes L'Arc= Slik-collar Ryfia= Black-tie Dress Niko= Casual Stripes Cecille= Strawberry Rastan= Weekend Wear Ryfia: Rastan, quick! Let's go! Cecille: Yeah! You shouldn't make a lady wait! Rastan: Oh, coming... Niko: Looks like Rastan's pretty popular with the women. L'Arc: No, I think that Cecille's just having fun with him. Rastan: So all I have to do is walk around town with you in these clothes? Cecille: Yup! This is a date, you know! Complete with stalkers, apparently... Ryfia: A... date? Cecille: Don't worry! It's a date, but just an innocent one. After all... Today is Dad's day off! Ryfia: Dad...? Rastan: Dad... In that case, why not? I do have experience, after all. Niko: ...Listen to them. L'Arc: No need to get mean-spirited! Why do you always... Niko: I'm trying to make it feel like we're pursuing them. You know, make things more exciting. L'Arc: In other words, trying to stave off boredom? Not that I care... Cecille: Having fun? Ryfia: Yes. Cecille: What about you Rastan? Rastan: Of course. Cecille: Great. Looks like our stalkers are having a good time too. - -[Cecille the Detective]- Location: Diamant, Upper Zone -Costumes Rastan= Roustabout Cecille= Detective Girl Serge= Gentleman Thief L'Arc: Hey, Cecille. Cecille: What is it? L'Arc: Why are you still in those clothes? Cecille: Because I like them. What's wrong with that? L'Arc: Because you like them? Serge: Oh, come on now. Just let her wear what she wants. Everyone needs to have a little fun! Rastan: Is there some reason why I'm wearing this? Cecille: I made you a great back story! Rastan: Back story? Are you saying I need a back story to walk around town? Cecille: Serge is a gentleman thief... And I, obviously, am a detective! You, Rastan, were a thug long ago, but after being caught, had a change of heart and became my assistant. Rastan: So, what do I have to do? L'Arc: Don't ask me! Just go along with it. Rastan: ...Got it. L'Arc: "Got it"? So what, you just went off on your own? Cecille: We went on an investigation! Serge: I won't cause any trouble yet. I'll be the mysterious man who dashes in and kidnaps a beautiful lady and... Cecille: We're not interested in small time criminals. Serge: Wha...? Cecille: L'Arc. L'Arc: Yeah. Cecille: Are there any crimes anywhere? If not, go commit some! L'Arc: Could you please stop trying to make a criminal out of me? - -[Legend vs. Reality]- Location: Benetnasch, Cathedral Road -Costumes Cecille= Cute Preacher Serge= Shifty Preacher Serge: O gods of Eesa! Why did you bring the uniqueness that is me into this world? It's so sinful, so luscious... Yet so rife with danger... Cecille: What's that you're going on about? Oh! The people in town will talk to you dressed like this, won't they? Serge: Right, and when they find out that the guy they thought was some clergyman is actually a lady-killer... Well, let's just say they'll all be shocked, to say the least! Cecille: Huh? Serge: I'll take their hands, look into their eyes and whisper, "Sweetheart..." Cecille: Oh gross...! Serge: You know, Cecille... You've been kind of cold to me, don't you think? C'mon, it's me, Leon! Cecille: I can't believe the legendary mercenary turned out to be a huge bum like you... Serge: Ah, you know how "legends" can get lives of their own after a while! Cecille: I'm just gonna make sure my legend doesn't get all messed up like that... - -[Knack for Fashion]- Location: Opalus, Local School -Costumes L'Arc= Lonewolf Ryfia= New Arrival Niko= Sidekick Style Niko: I feel weird wearing anything besides an army uniform. L'Arc: No matter what we put on you, you always make it look like a total mess! Niko: Hey, I gotta keep my style going! Ryfia: My clothes look a bit different. L'Arc: That doesn't look like any academy uniform I've ever seen. Niko: But it still looks cute! Ryfia: Thanks. L'Arc: I don't look good in anything. You guys make me jealous! Niko: Really? You always seem to look stylish in whatever you're wearing.. L'Arc: Oh, zip it! We don't need to talk about that! Ryfia: It's true! I think you have a gift for looking good in anything. L'Arc: But there were so many things I don't want to look good in! Ryfia: Oh... I see. Well, at least I'm having fun! - -[Secret Ambitions]- Location: Opalus, Local School -Costumes L'Arc= Lonewolf Ryfia= New Arrival Niko= Sidekick Style Cecille= Grade-skipper Cecille: Eeeeek! I love this so much! Niko: Okay, now breathe Cecille! Cecille: I feel kind of taller... Or something like that. Ryfia: Taller? Or do you mean older and more sophisticated? Cecille: Yeah, that's it! Like I've raced up the steps to adulthood, leaving my peers behind! L'Arc: Do we have to wear these again? Niko: You shouldn't complain. Besides, as long as we're in Opalus, we really have no other choice. L'Arc: I guess we are blending in... But it's a bit cold, don't you think? Cecille: I don't care! Let it snow, or let it freeze! This skirt is every girl's dream! Proof of my bravery, too! Ryfia: It is pretty cute. Niko: Not to mention pretty gutsy. Cecille: Shall we make your pants a little shorter? Maybe it'll make you look more fun-loving and stuff. Who knows? L'Arc: No thanks. I'll pass. - -[A Brief Respite]- Location: Worldmap, beach southwest of Ferris -Costumes L�Arc= Blue Swimsuit Ryfia= White One-piece Niko= Retro Swimsuit Rastan= Seagull Cecille= Frilly Bikini Ryfia: Do you know a lot about the ocean, Rastan? Rastan: Well, a little bit I guess. Ryfia: Oh. I don't know much about the ocean at all. Rastan: You've been in the Singing Ministry ever since you were a child right? Ryfia: Yes... Rastan: Are you afraid of the water? Ryfia: I want to like it. It's just... Rastan: There's no rush. You'll get used to it soon enough. Niko: Hehehehe! L'Arc: Stop giggling like a little girl! Niko: What's wrong with what I'm doing? Look, the view is so beautiful! L'Arc: Yeah, I guess so... Niko: I can't help smiling. It's just so pretty! L'Arc: Guess I should give you credit for coming up with that answer in a pinch! Niko: No, Mr. L'Arc! I've got a really deep mind! Cecille: Uh, really? L'Arc: Hey! Niko: Whoa! L'Arc: Don't scare me like that! Niko: Why you... little brat! Sneaking around like that! Cecille: Hey, you made that too easy! I got in right under your noses when you were distracted! Niko: Oh! Cecille: Too late to hide now! But the view sure is great, isn't it? Especially his pecs! Niko: ...Huh? Cecille: You know, Rastan! His bod's just to die for! Niko: That's not what we were looking at! - -[Custom-made]- Location: Kopin Village -Costumes L'Arc= Mystery Gunner Niko= Kopin Costume Rastan= Mystery Warrior Serge= Mystery Gown L'Arc: These clothes... they're so tight! And this armor... it's so heavy! That's it! I'm changing! Serge: Looks like someone is a little self-conscious. Rastan: These clothes do take a little getting used to. Serge: Hey, don't tell me you're going to change too! Rastan: Of course not! I happen to like these. (L'Arc changes back into his default outfit) L'Arc: Phew... Serge: Oh, you're back. L'Arc: What is it? Serge: Take a look over there. L'Arc: ...Can't you at least pretend you're not looking? Rastan: S-sure... Kopin: How does that feel? (Niko's chat portrait is silhouetted) Niko: Not as bad as I thought it would. Kopin: It appears that this article of clothing was finely crafted down to the smallest detail. Niko: Oh yeah? L'Arc: Niko, you ummm... (Niko's portrait is revealed) Niko: There isn't a problem, is there? Kopin: It's splendid. L'Arc: I'm actually speechless. Completely and utterly speechless... - -[Snowy Ambition]- Location: Worldmap, south of the Waxing Crescent Inn, in an elevated position -Costumes L'Arc= Furry Coat Ryfia= Moonlight Coat Niko= Checkered Coat Rastan= Dark Coat Cecille= Lily-white Coat Serge= Slender Coat Niko: Wow, it's pretty cold! Even my t-t-teeth... are ch-ch-chattering... L'Arc: Oh, stop faking it! Are you guys okay? Cecille: Perfectly fine. Ryfia: Pretty warm, actually. Serge: I'm good. Nice and toasty. L'Arc: Hey... What are you doing? Serge: I just thought that maybe I could get in with the girls... L'Arc: Good luck with that. Serge: Hey! You can't ever get anything unless you make an effort! Isn't that right Rastan? Rastan: ...I suppose. L'Arc: I'm not so sure about that... - -After going to Resolvent Iceberg- -[Overly Complicated]- Location: Opalus, Local School (while Leslie is with the party) -Costumes L'Arc= Lonewolf Ryfia= New Arrival Niko= Sidekick Style Rastan= The Gardener Cecille= Grade-skipper Serge= Corrupt Teacher Leslie= School Doctor L'Arc: Not these again... Niko: What's the matter? I kind of like them. Plus, I've never been to this kind of school. L'Arc: Well, neither have I, but... Cecille: Have no fear! Cecille is here! Ryfia: ...And Ryfia too! L'Arc: What's gotten into you? Niko: I'm used to Cecille dressing like that. But when I see Ryfia like that, it's kind of hot! Cecille: What about you, L'Arc? Does that get an obsessed guy like you all riled up too? L'Arc: Who you calling obsessed?! Serge: "Have no fear!" Leslie: "Cecille is here!" L'Arc: ...Sigh. Anyway, what's the plan? Serge: Now I'm a teacher. I used to be a researcher, but circumstances forced me into teaching. Leslie: As you can see, I'm the school nurse. I don't have a back story, really. I'm just sexy! L'Arc: For a teacher, you look pretty evil, Serge. Serge: How rude! I'm all that is good and pure! Cecille: You'll have all the boys on you like that, Leslie! Not just the creeps, either! Leslie: Thanks. Ryfia: Ummm... Rastan: ... Ryfia: What the heck are you wearing Rastan? Rastan: How should I know? They forced me to wear this so I wouldn't be a "party pooper." Serge: Can't blame them. Your regular get up kind of makes you stand out. Leslie: We even gave him a back story. At first, he wanted to be a fencing instructor. Niko: That's not much different from what he actually is. Ryfia: What's the rest of the story? Serge: He's a gardener! - -After getting the "letter" from the Senate in Carbunculus- -[Mature Trio]- Location: Carbunculus, Artist's Zone -Costumes Rastan= Weekend Wear Serge= The Townsman Leslie= Ebony Dress Serge: Hey... Rastan: Well, don't just look at me and then go silent. If you've got something to say, say it. Serge: It's just, this is so unexpected. Leslie: Very unexpected. Serge: I didn't think you'd create such a family-like atmosphere. Leslie: And then there's me. I'm wearing such beautiful clothes, and I haven't changed a bit. Serge: Oh, come on now. You're wonderful! Leslie: Thanks. It must be hard to be such a sophisticated adult! Serge: Why, yes. It is indeed. - -[Lovely Trio]- Location: Carbunculus, Recreation Zone -Costumes L'Arc= Slik-collar Coat Ryfia= Black-tie Dress Rastan= Weekend Wear Cecille= Strawberry Serge= The Townsman Leslie= Ebony Dress Leslie: Give me your arm, Ryfia. Ryfia: Why are we walking arm in arm? Cecille: Because girls are cute when they do that! Ryfia: Cute? Cecille: ...Right, Leslie? Leslie: Yeah. Girls getting dressed up and walking like this arm in arm is pretty standard. Ryfia: If you say so. Leslie: Yes, we say so. Rastan: Looks like it's pretty lively over there. Serge: Oh, they're just taking a little break, is all. Rastan: I suppose. Serge: Let's just leave them be. L'Arc: Hmmm? What's Ryfia doing? She's running this way... Ryfia: Huff, huff, huff... ...L'Arc... I need to ask you a favor. L'Arc: Hmmm? What is it? Ryfia: I want you three to walk arm in arm too. L'Arc: What?! No way... Serge: Oh, come on! You can do it! Watch... Rastan: ...Ungh. L'Arc: Ewww, stop that! Serge: Oh, come on. She asked you nicely right? (to Ryfia) Didn't you? Ryfia: Yeah. All three of you... L'Arc: Fine... Ryfia: Look at you, you're so cute! L'Arc: ...Sigh. Thanks a lot. Not as cute as you though. Ryfia: Huh? Really...? I don't get you sometimes... - -[Antrax Inn 2]- Location: Antrax, Finite Sparkle Inn, Suite -Costumes L'Arc= Tank Top Ryfia= Iris Nightgown Cecille= Aqua Nightgown Rastan= Nightwear Serge= Silk Pajamas Leslie= Sophia's No.3 Serge: At least everybody is together. Cecille: What? Why the serious face? Leslie: So what if everyone is together? We'll be exhausted tomorrow if we don't sleep tonight. Serge: I think it's some sort of fate that has pulled us all together like this. Ryfia: It must be the guidance of Eesa. Serge: Yeah, that's it! L'Arc: Is that really what you were thinking...? Serge: Whatever, the details don't matter! I just wanted to deepen our friendship, you know? Rastan: I get what you mean, but what's with the pajamas? Serge: I'm trying to relax here! Leslie: Well, how do you propose we "deepen our friendship" anyway? Serge: We'll all ask each other questions! And no matter what it is, you MUST answer, okay? Ryfia: Okay, that sounds fun! L'Arc: Are you serious? Serge: Come on, you're wasting time! Let's start with you then L'Arc! Ask everyone a question. L'Arc: Huh? Okay... What's everyone's favorite food? Serge: That's the most meaningless question in the universe. I shoulda known you'd ask that. Oh well, I suppose it is the first question after all. Let's see... My favorite is freshly baked bread. Cecille: Bread, eh... Mine is cake! Leslie: I like pickled anything... especially zucchini and tomatoes. Ryfia: Hmm, mine is probably fruit. You know, like strawberries or apples. Rastan: Me? I like cured, smoked meat. L'Arc: Okay, I like stew. Ryfia: Isn't that what Elena made for us that day? I liked it too. It was really filling! Serge: Okay, next question! Cecille: What do you like most about yourself? How about that one? Rastan: ...Hmm, I like my strong body that I got from my mother and father. Leslie: I'd say... my face. Serge: Hey, whaddya know? I think my face is my best quality too! L'Arc: Man, you people... Ryfia: Hmm, maybe... my voice? L'Arc: I like my voice too because it sounds a lot like my dad's. Serge: Okay, next! The night is still young my friends! - -[Glamorous]- Location: Antrax, Pier -Costumes Leslie= Red & White Robe Cecille: I always get sad when I come to Olquina... Serge: Looking at this would make anyone sad. Leslie: He's right... Cecille: Wait, when... Serge: Another glamorous get-up, I see. Leslie: This is a full uniform, I'll have you know. Cecille: Uniform for what? Leslie: No idea. Cecille: Grrr... If you don't know, then don't pretend like you do. Serge: Well, I suppose it does have an Olquinian feel to it, so what's the harm? Cecille: What?! Not that I care, but... Leslie: Well, let's go. Can't save the place if we don't have a look around! - -[Rest and Assault]- Location: Worldmap, beach north of Kopin Village -Costumes L�Arc= Blue Swimsuit Ryfia= White One-piece Rastan= Seagull Cecille= Frilly Bikini Serge= Happy Holidays Leslie= Tropical Bikini Serge: A nice, quick rest on the shore with your feet in the water... Leslie: They do say that exhaustion is beauty's worst enemy. Rastan: I suppose even soldiers need to take a rest sometimes. Cecille: What's with all the excuses, you bunch of oldsters? Serge: Excuses? Oldsters?! Rastan: Did that sound like an excuse? Leslie: We're your guides. You know, your leaders? Cecille: What, are you all in cahoots together now? L'Arc: It looks like you're getting used to the sea now. Ryfia: The waves are still scary, but I'm okay if I don't think about them too much. L'Arc: If you don't think about it? Well, I suppose what you don't know can't hurt you. Cecille: You grown-ups are so mean! L'Arc: Mean? Us? Ryfia: What did they do to you? Something terrible? Cecille: Are you serious or just kidding around? Ryfia: Just kidding... a little... Cecille: Oh, in that case, I'll play along too. Those big, mean grown-ups were so terrible to me! L'Arc: So, what are we gonna do? Cecille: We'll make a sneak attack. Ryfia: How? Cecille: We get close to her from the side, and then splash her with the waves. L'Arc: You mean get her soaking wet? Cecille: Yes, in so many words. L'Arc: Well, why didn't you say so? Let's do it! Cecille: Well, someone's enthusiastic! Ryfia: I'll go for Rastan. Cecille: You too? Okay, I'll take that annoying weirdo Serge... L'Arc: Then I've got Leslie. Cecille: Now, attack! - -[Kopin Reflects]- Location: Worldmap, beach east of Topazion -Costumes L'Arc= Silver Wolf Ryfia= Avian Costume Rastan= Bear Costume Cecille= Squirrel Serge= Droopy Dog Leslie= Black Cat Garb L'Arc: Nice weather... Serge: Hey L'Arc! I think you're getting used to those clothes. L'Arc: Huh? Yeah, I guess. Can't keep complaining forever. Cecille: Wait... Why are we here again...? Leslie: She's right... Ever since that day... We've completely forgotten... Ryfia: ...What? What's wrong with everyone? I... L'Arc: Okay, now you're getting carried away. You've confused Ryfia. Ryfia: Sorry L'Arc. I just thought I'd play along. L'Arc: Oh. Wait! Really? Ryfia: Yeah. Serge: Don't you feel embarrassed now? Leslie: L'Arc can't help it. He's just a little naive is all. Ryfia: Hehehe. L'Arc: ...Ugh. Serge: Speaking of which, someone more naive than you just showed up! Leslie: You wanna give it a go Ryfia? Ryfia: Sure. Rastan: What's the matter Ryfia? Everyone's things are at the shore. Kopin's there too, of course. Ryfia: What's he doing? Rastan: Apparently, he's reflecting on what he did. He was sitting down and punching himself. - -[Party Buff]- Location: Worldmap, south of the Waxing Crescent Inn, in an elevated position -Costumes L'Arc= Furry Coat Ryfia= Moonlight Coat Rastan= Dark Coat Cecille= Lily-white Coat Serge= Slender Coat Leslie= Midwinter Coat Serge: Isn't it exciting? L'Arc: ..Isn't what exciting? Serge: The snow! Look at it all! L'Arc: Well, I suppose it is kind of rare... Cecille: ...It's so frustrating! Rastan: What's the matter? Cecille: It's annoying to walk in, but it's so fun, too! Rastan: Whoa! Just make sure you don't fall down! Ryfia: What is it about snow that makes everyone so happy? Leslie: Well, it's... Serge: Sorry to butt in, but allow me to answer that! It's because people look three times as cute when they're standing in the snow! Leslie: In that case, L'Arc's heart must be going a mile a minute! L'Arc: Could we please focus a little less on my inner emotions? Ryfia: Ummm... L'Arc: What now...? Ryfia: So the snow makes other people look pretty, just not me? L'Arc: Huh? That's not true... Ryfia: Really...? Thanks... You're pretty cute too, L'Arc. Cecille and Leslie, too... Leslie: Thanks. Ryfia: Oh, and I can't forget Serge and Rastan. Rastan: Haha! It's kind of strange to be called cute at my age, but I'll take it as a compliment. - -[Dressing Up]- Location: Any Moon Inn -Costumes Leslie= Rosy Dress Ryfia: Oh, there's a table here. L'Arc: It's for the mercenaries to gather around and trade information. Leslie: It probably wouldn't be bad for drinking either. Ryfia: Ah... L'Arc: Why did you change...? Ryfia: You look lovely. Leslie: Thanks Ryfia. L'Arc: We don't have much time for relaxing, you know. Leslie: But a little, at least? L'Arc: Sure. Leslie: See, I knew you were a nice guy L'Arc! L'Arc: Hey! Stop that... Leslie: It's so much fun to get a reaction out of you! Oh... Ryfia: Hmph... Leslie: Ryfia, you didn't just get angry now, did you? Ryfia: Of course not... Leslie: Are you sure? Ryfia: Positive. Leslie: All right... L'Arc: Ugh... Hey, what's wrong, Ryfia? Ryfia: Nothing! L'Arc: Huh? Leslie: L'Arc... Grow up a little! L'Arc: Wait a sec, Ryfia... What'd I do now?! Leslie: Those two... It's always one step forward and two steps back. - -[Ryfia's Painting]- Location: Any Moon Inn -Costumes Ryfia= The Artist Rastan: Hmph... Serge: That hurts! Is this what I look like in your pure little eyes Ryfia? Leslie: Th-that's quite... original. Ryfia: I'm sorry. I tried to make it look like him, but maybe I should just stop... Kopin: Nonsense. This area here has a distinct Rastan feeling to it. Serge: If you think about it, the way you've drawn his eyebrows does remind me of him. Kopin: And you've captured the shape of his mouth perfectly. Leslie: Now that you mention it, that's Serge's mouth, all right...that sloppy smirk of his. Kopin: And you've captured Leslie's look quite accurately. Rastan: Indeed... It looks as though she's looking off into loneliness. Serge: Loneliness...? Aww. Leslie: It's really not your fault, Ryfia. Rastan: You may have captured only a piece of ourselves, but you've done it very realistically. Serge: Yeah, this does look like me. Thanks Ryfia. Leslie: I'll hold on to it as a souvenir. Rastan: I'm glad to receive this. Ryfia: I'm glad you like them. Kopin: Now all that's left is Cecille and L'Arc... Ryfia: ...What's the matter? Kopin: Oh, nothing. I'm just talking to myself. - -[Just a City Boy]- Location: Diamant, Fountain Square -Costumes L'Arc= Meridian Boy Leslie: Even L'Arc looks like a normal Meridian guy with that on. Ryfia: Normal? Leslie: Don't ask me what "normal" means in this case, okay, Ryfia? It's just too hard to explain. L'Arc: What's "normal" anyway? Everyone's a bit different. Ryfia: Yeah. My "normal," L'Arc's "normal," your "normal..." They're all different! Leslie: Maybe, but there are still lots of things that're the same. Ryfia: L'Arc doesn't look too normal to me right now. L'Arc: Really? Ryfia: Yeah, I'm used to seeing you look different. Leslie: Well, I suppose he did look good in that other outfit, too. L'Arc: You mean "that"...? Don't remind me... Ryfia: Why not? You looked good... Leslie: Yeah! You were adorable! L'Arc: Well, I'm glad you two are enjoying this, at least... - -[Not Too Honest]- Location: Diamant, Zamuel's Martial School -Costumes Ryfia= Dress with Tiara Ryfia: It's cute, but... I'm kind of embarrassed... Cecille: Why? It's fine. I like how it looks! Ryfia: I'll never get used to this... Serge: Why would L'Arc even buy something like this? Leslie: Maybe he likes it? After all, he always pretends to complain, but he still wears them in the end. Serge: Like a fetish? Leslie: More like a crime against humanity! Serge: People are pretty complicated, aren't they? Leslie: Very. Cecille: All right, you guys! Enough of your blabbering nonsense! Serge: Sorry, mom. Ryfia: Can I change now? Cecille: L'Arc's not here yet. He needs to have a look, at least. Ryfia: But... Cecille: Look, there he is now! Wait, he stopped. He looks pretty surprised. Serge: Why don't you go after him? I'm sure he'd love that. Ryfia: Okay... (Ryfia walks towards L'Arc) Serge: Oh...! Leslie: Just like in a painting, she begins to trip... Cecille: And the prince gently scoops her up and catches her... Serge: Don't you feel like we're watching history unfold? Leslie: A little, yeah. Cecille: Nothing we can do about it. Those two are just so... natural together. - -After going to Ellgode Volcano- -[In the Director's House 1]- Location: Carbunculus, Industrial Area, Greenhill Estate -Costumes L'Arc= Dinner Jacket Ryfia= Lively Dress Rastan= Best Clothes Cecille= Princess' Dress Serge= Mr. Handsome Leslie= Ivory Dress Niko (Not in the party)= ? (The party starts off wearing their default outfits) Leslie: A party? I think we got all the VIPs of this country... Humble daughter: Leslie, and everybody. I'm glad I found you here. The Director, who's on duty, is feeling bored right now. If you can join the event, I'd like to invite her too. I'm sure she'd be delighted. Leslie: I could show up for a while. But actually... I don't have an appropriate dress for the occasion. Humble daughter: That's being taken care of. Please change into this. You too. (The party changes clothes and attends the event) Leslie: I'm here. Shelly: Leslie. I'm glad you came. I'm glad you all came. L'Arc: Head Senator, I thank you for your invitation. Ryfia: Thank you. Cecille: Thanks. Shelly: Welcome. Serge: With the invitation, I, Leonhart, am simply walking on air! Shelly: Huh? That's good. Serge: ...Huh? Niko: The legendary Merc is pathetic! L'Arc: Niko! What on earth are you doing? Niko: The same as my brothers. I just came to report... It's a good opportunity! Shelly: Hm... That's right. Well then, if you'll excuse me. I've got things to do. Leslie: I don't mind. Good luck. We'll be gracefully enjoying the party. Shelly: There seems to be a lot of people like wallflowers... no, like warriors... Anyway... Well then, I'll be going. Enjoy the party. Leslie: Come on, let's make a toast! Serge: Yes... Let's change the mood. Niko: Rastan's here. Rastan: Let's make a toast... Cecille: Juice...? L'Arc: Come on Ryfia, pick up your glass too. Ryfia: Yes. Leslie: Everybody's ready? Then... To happiness and the best end to this trip... L'Arc: Cheers! Ryfia: Cheers! Rastan: Cheers! Cecille: Cheers! Niko: Cheers! Serge: Cheers! Leslie: Cheers! - -After going to Soliton Caves- -[In the Director's House 2]- Location: Carbunculus, Industrial Area, Greenhill Estate -Costumes L'Arc= The Footman Ryfia= Apron Dress Cecille= Cat-eared Maid Leslie= Tidy Maid (The party starts off wearing their default outfits) Shelly: Glad you're here. You're most welcome. Leslie: I-I have a bad feeling about this... Shelly: Hehehe... Leslie: Don't get involved with her. Shelly's always trouble in times like these. (Imitating Shelly) The timing couldn't be better. I thank my lucky cards that you're here. Will you help me? Shelly: You must help. Leslie: See? What are you going to make me do? Shelly: I had completely forgotten that an important guest will be coming, and I gave my employees the day off. Now, I'm short of staff. Leslie: L'Arc, what do you say? It's impossible, right? We're too busy... L'Arc: Why not? Leslie: Right... Huh? Why?! If you show your weakness here, you'll be taken advantage of forever! Shelly: That hurts... I've prepared the clothes. Now, get dressed! Leslie: Argh... (The party changes clothes and performs Shelly's duties) Leslie: See what you've gotten yourself into?!? That's why I told you... Cecille: Really? I had quite a good time. Ryfia: Well, I suppose. It was really busy though! Leslie: Really? I'm glad you said so... L'Arc: I guess the party's over. Ryfia: Yes. L'Arc: Hm... Cecille: What do you mean, "Hm?" L'Arc: Why do you care? Oops, the master is coming this way! Shelly: Thank you. Ryfia, Cecille, and yes, Leslie too! Leslie: Yes, yes. You two pretty girls have no enemies. Shelly: Don't make that face. Seriously, I really appreciated it. Makes me want to ask you again! Leslie: You're serious? Shelly: I'm always serious! Leslie: Oh yes... I forgot something important... - -[Cadets in the Snow]- Location: Worldmap, south of the Waxing Crescent Inn, in an elevated position -Costumes L'Arc= Furry Coat Ryfia= Moonlight Coat Cecille= Lily-white Coat Serge= Slender Coat Leslie= Midwinter Coat Leslie: I used to run around this place all the time when I was a student... Ryfia: How come? Did you like it? Leslie: Of course not! It was for military training. You had to get to your destination without being seen, getting lost, or getting separated from your team. Cecille: Sounds tough! Leslie: Well, I didn't mind it... Besides, it gave me these gorgeous legs I've got! Serge: That's something we can all be thankful for! Leslie: Well, you're welcome. Ryfia: Thanks. Leslie: No problem. L'Arc: You know... Actually, never mind. Tell us about your training. Something happened, didn't it? Leslie: Oh, that's right! It all happened when we were practicing in pairs. My partner was so mean! In the mornings, she would run off too far ahead by herself... And in the evenings, she would disappear after finding some rare stone... I had to walk three times the distance by myself! Ryfia: That wouldn't be... Leslie: You guessed it. The very same Shelly that you all know... - -[Out of the Blue]- Location: Carbunculus, Recreation Zone -Costumes Ryfia= Maid Uniform Cecille= Princess' Dress Cecille: Do I look like an elegant princess? You'd better say I do, or I'll knock your teeth out! Serge: What kind of princess says, "I'll knock your teeth out"? Cecille: Hrmph! Serge: It's a shame, too... You're cute when you're quiet. Leslie: I couldn't imagine Cecille any other way, though. Rastan: Hehe, she's right! Cecille: Oh, don't laugh at me, Rastan! Serge: Wait, why are you wearing that again Ryfia? Ryfia: Cecille told me to try it on... Serge: Hey, you two stand next to each other for a second. Leslie: He'll love this! Serge: Yeah, I suppose he would. Rastan: Speak of the devil... Cecille: Okay, let's go Ryfia! Ryfia: Huh, what? Ah...! Rastan: And off they go... Serge: Aww, I wanted to see his reaction! Leslie: I'm sure you can get a vivid enough picture in your head. - -After getting a pass in Diamant- -[In the Director's House 3]- Location: Carbunculus, Industrial Area, Greenhill Estate -Costumes L'Arc= Lady in Black Ryfia= Boyish Suit Rastan= Tragic Dress Cecille= Boy's Clothes Serge= Black Roses Leslie= Masculine Suit Niko (Not in the party)= Dreadnought! (The party, including Niko, starts off wearing their default outfits) Cecille: Niko? Running errands for the Resistance again? Niko: ... Don't come this way, or you'll regret it... Shelly: Shush. Niko: Ugh... Shelly: You guys have been good to me so I've prepared an ingenious plan. Leslie: Nothing stupid, I hope? Shelly: Good humor! There's nothing to worry about. Leslie: With you... I do worry... Shelly: First, the women. Get dressed. Serge: Hm? This looks like fun. Rastan: I don't get it... Shelly: What? You guys... There's nothing to be afraid of. Ah, I see you're ready. (The female party members change their clothes) Cecille: This is awfully... cute... Ryfia: Is this a boy's outfit? Leslie: The design is. Although it looks like it's been retouched a bit. Shelly: Do you like it? This is today's plan. Rastan: I'm leaving... L'Arc: Me too... Niko: You're not getting away! We're travel companions! L'Arc: What? (The boys change) L'Arc: You want me to go out in public dressed like this? Rastan: We've got no choice. The Director of the Republic says this is how we're going to entertain the guests. Serge: As always Mr. Rastan, you're most sincere. Rastan: I just think that to bring a country together, sometimes you need this kind of humor. L'Arc: Shelly's probably the one having the most fun in all of this. Serge: Probably. Rastan: For sure. (Niko's chat portrait is silhouetted) Niko: You're ready? Let's raid that party! L'Arc: You initially hated the idea, but you awfully seem excited now! Why the sudden... Whoa! Serge: What's that? Hahaha! (Niko's portrait is revealed) Niko: This is some serious outfit! Cecille: You're huge! Rastan: I don't get it... - -[Discontent]- Location: Diamant, Upper Zone -Costumes L'Arc= Weiss' Garb (L'Arc starts off wearing his default outfit) L'Arc: Where's the rule that says I have to wear this?! Serge: Oh, come on L'Arc! Just try it on! L'Arc: No way! Serge: Stop being a baby and just put it on! Cecille: Yeah! Not like you get this chance every day. L'Arc: ...Fine. Cecille: There you go with that sad face again. Thanks for being a good sport, anyway! Serge: A serious good sport! L'Arc: Ugh! You're all making me sick! (He changes into Weiss' Garb) Happy now? Serge: Hmmm... Cecille: It's true. L'Arc: What is...? Serge: He doesn't quite have the presence, but they still look alike. Cecille: They must have been brothers. L'Arc: Really...? What's similar about us? Serge: Hmmm... I'd say the eyes. Cecille: Ahaha! Well, they both have evil looks, that's for sure! L'Arc: Knock it off! (Hmmm... I guess he and I have more in common than I thought...) - -After the events in Diamant Castle, before going to Lascarde Skywalk- -[In the Director's House 4]- Location: Carbunculus, Industrial Area, Greenhill Estate -Costumes L'Arc= Dinner Jacket, Random Tree Ryfia= Lively Dress, Prima Donna Rastan= Best Clothes Cecille= Princess' Dress Serge= Mr. Handsome Leslie= Ivory Dress (The party begins the skit wearing their indicated costumes, with L'Arc and Ryfia wearing the Dinner Jacket and Lively Dress respectively) Leslie: Why here...? Serge: Because I have a feeling things are going to get interesting. Leslie: I think my partner in crime will cause everyone trouble... L'Arc: Coy, aren't we? That's unlike you. Leslie: Well well. Don't call me for help when you're in trouble! L'Arc: Trouble? Just helping out, right? Plus, I get fed. I don't think it's such a bad thing. Shelly: Sorry to have kept you waiting. I've got something to ask you. Cecille: What? You want me to be a maid again? Ryfia: I can help you if you want. Shelly: I need you to be a waiter, but today I've got a more important task. I need you to entertain the crowd. Rastan: Entertain... Serge: You can do that? Rastan: No. Shelly: Ryfia. I hate to ask you, the Diva, but... I'd like you to sing wearing the outfit of Harmony Hall's songstress... Ryfia: It would be an honor... Shelly: L'Arc, I also have something for you. L'Arc: No... Shelly: No... It's not what I'm thinking, is it? (L'Arc and Ryfia change into the Random Tree and Prima Donna costumes respectively) Cecille: Close... By the way, Ryfia, you've got such nice skin... Serge: Why not? Rastan: In exchange for that... Leslie: Poor L'Arc... (L'Arc's chat portrait is silhouetted) L'Arc: This can't be happening... Why can't you be satisfied with just Ryfia singing? Why do I have to do this? Shelly: It's just as I had planned it. Alright, we've got work to do. (L'Arc's portrait is revealed) L'Arc: Leslie... Leslie: I'm sorry L'Arc... L'Arc: When I speak with Shelly, I'm not sure we understand each other. Has it always been like this? Leslie: Yes... Hi hi hi...! Ha ha ha! L'Arc: This is too much... Leslie: He he he...! Sorry. That serious look on your face was just too funny! I just couldn't help it. L'Arc: You... Shelly: Alright, time to get prepared. I'm counting on you. L'Arc: Argh... Why did it come to this? - -After going to Lascarde Skywalk- -[The Good and Old]- Location: Carbunculus, Industrial Area -Costumes Leslie= Republic Officer Rastan: Wow... Serge: Look at the gorgeous lady officer! You even got a reaction from Rastan! Leslie: Former officer, that is. L'Arc: You look good. Leslie: Thanks. I wonder why Angie left these here? I thought I got rid of them. Serge: She probably wanted you to come back. Rastan: Most likely. Leslie: To the army? Rastan: No, back home. Leslie: Ngh... this is kind of tight. Serge: What's this? Has the beautiful lady commander gotten too big for her uniform? Leslie: A little bit it seems like... L'Arc: You're going to let him get away with that? Leslie: Well, it's true! But just around the chest area... Hahaha! You're so predictable! L'Arc: Quiet! Leslie: (Time to go home, I guess...) - -[A Familiar Dress]- Location: Benetnasch, Assaulted Town -Costumes Ryfia= Ciel's Dress Cecille: You know, that dress... Ryfia: ...Is something wrong? Cecille: No, no. It looks great on you! Ryfia: Thanks. Cecille: I might be wrong, but I think I've seen it before. Ryfia: Seen it before? Cecille: Hey, Rastan. Rastan: What is it? Cecille: See the dress that Ryfia's wearing? Have you seen it before? Rastan: ...Come to think of it, I think I have. Sometime during our generation... Ryfia: It was left to me by my mother... Rastan: Oh... I suppose that makes sense. Cecille: Wait! That's it! Ryfia: What's it? Cecille: We must have crossed paths sometime back then... Like me and Rastan, you know? Rastan: Cecille and I may have met your mother before! Ryfia: Wow...! That's so wonderful if it's true! - -[Diamant Inn]- Location: Diamant, Rainbow Sky Inn, Suite -Costumes L'Arc= Tank Top Ryfia= Iris Nightgown Cecille= Aqua Nightgown Rastan= Nightwear Serge= Silk Pajamas Leslie= Sophia's No.3 Ryfia: Hey, Leslie. Leslie: Mmm... What is it? Oh no, I think I almost fell asleep... Ryfia: Sorry for waking you up, but I wanted to ask you something... Won't you catch a cold the way you're dressed right now? Leslie: Oh, this? I'm fine! Isn't this cute? Cecille: It's cute, but maybe a little too sexy, don't you think? Leslie: Well, if I don't wear something like this, I don't feel like I'm free. Ryfia: Free? Leslie: Free from the shackles of this world. Ryfia: Shackles... Leslie: You know, like the relationship between a man and woman. The past, too, maybe. Serge: You ladies are lounging around like we aren't even here. L'Arc: Didn't you have something to do? Leslie: I was just bored. L'Arc: Huh? Leslie: I was looking for something fun... L'Arc: Oh my... Leslie: Let's talk about love! But not about your first love, like when you were five years old or something. Serge: Okay then, me, me! I was thirteen at the time... I was friends with this younger girl for a while, but suddenly she became someone really special... L'Arc: How can you just say it like that? Serge: What? They're beautiful memories! And it's not like they go away if you tell them to other people. Cecille: I haven't... had any relationships yet. I just haven't met that special someone. Leslie: I think I was twelve at the time. He was older than me though... Ryfia: How old was he? Leslie: Twenty. Cecille: Wow, eight years older than you! Leslie: No, he was thirty-two! Cecille: Huh? He's about your parents' age! Leslie: He was my father's co-worker. Cecille: Wow... Serge: How about you, Ryfia? Ryfia: Well, I don't really know what love is yet... Serge: Hmm, okay, well, whose turn is next? Oh, you're the next person, right?! Rastan: I, uh, you can skip me if you like... Cecille: No! You should tell us! Rastan: It's really nothing you'd want to hear... Cecille: Sure I do. Rastan: If you're wanting to be a hero, you shouldn't try to disclose other people's secrets... Serge: You can't get away with saying something like that! They're children! L'Arc: They are all getting very excited. Ryfia: Yes indeed. L'Arc: I'm not comfortable with this kind of discussion... Ryfia: Me, too... L'Arc: Do you want to go outside? Ryfia: Yes. - -[One-sided Victory]- Location: Diamant, Zamuel: Guest House -Costumes L'Arc= Pilgrim's Robes Ryfia= Pilgrim's Robes Cecille= Princess' Dress Serge= Pilgrim's Robes Leslie= Pilgrim's Robes (Cecille starts off wearing her default outfit) Cecille: You know, this isn't fair. L'Arc: What isn't? Cecille: You're all wearing matching outfits, and I'm all left out! L'Arc: Well, sorry. We're wearing these so we can do our jobs. Rastan: If this is what we need, shouldn't we buy our own, then? Cecille: No thanks! Leslie: Oh, is someone pouting? Serge: Now look, L'Arc, our little princess is all upset! Cecille: Hey! Ryfia: What is it? Cecille: I've got an idea! Let me go change. Serge: (to L'Arc) Go on, go with her. L'Arc: Why do I have to do everything?! Leslie: Well... You know... You're more honest. Serge: And naive! L'Arc: Is that all I am to you guys...? Cecille: I'm back! (Cecille has changed clothes) Cecille: See, I win! L'Arc: This isn't a competition! Cecille: But I still win! L'Arc: Aren't you going to change, Rastan? Ryfia: Ohhhh... Serge: No, Ryfia... That's not what he meant! - -After going to Verct Skywalk- -[In the Director's House 5]- Location: Carbunculus, Industrial Area, Greenhill Estate -Costumes L'Arc= Crimson Clown Ryfia= Boyish Suit, Blue Clown Rastan= Tragic Dress Cecille= Boy's Clothes Serge= Black Roses Leslie= Masculine Suit (L'Arc starts off wearing his default outfit while Ryfia wears the Boyish Suit. The rest of the party wears their indicated costumes) Shelly: It was popular at the previous party. It must be thanks to this outfit. I'm glad I prepared it. Leslie: This outfit's not bad. Besides, women look good in men's suits. Cecille: It's comfortable too. Ryfia: I like it too. Shelly: That's good. Now, the rest... Rastan: Head Senator. What am I supposed to represent? Shelly: The element of surprise, of course! Rastan: Whaaaa...?!? Serge: Sorry to have kept you waiting. L'Arc: You look too good in that! That's kind of disturbing, actually. Ryfia: L'Arc isn't wearing a dress. L'Arc: Yes... I had her pick another outfit. Ryfia: Is that so... Shelly: Ryfia, would you like to dress up like L'Arc? L'Arc: Wait, Shelly. Dress up? I can't let you just say that. Shelly: Don't worry. L'Arc: No! (L'Arc and Ryfia change into the Crimson Clown and Blue Clown costumes respectively, both of their chat portraits being silhouetted afterwards) L'Arc: Let it go. You can't fight Shelly... Ryfia: Hehe... I guess Leslie experienced similar hardships in the past. L'Arc: Okay, let's go. Let's get this over with and get out of here! Ryfia: Yes. (Their portraits are revealed) Serge: Pff! Cecille: Hahaha! What's that?! L'Arc: How on earth does this party contribute to the country?! Ryfia: Everybody seems to be enjoying themselves. That's wonderful! L'Arc: Huh? This is not right!! - -[Clowns]- Location: Carbunculus, Harmony Hall -Costumes L'Arc= Crimson Clown Ryfia= Blue Clown L'Arc: You know, these clothes look like they were made to hide a person's gender and age... Ryfia: Really? L'Arc: Yeah. You can see the shape of the body, and you could hide your face with makeup or something. Ryfia: Looks like these clothes are made for more than just fun and games. L'Arc: I guess you could call it fun with a purpose. Kopin: I see. Interesting. L'Arc: Whoa! Ryfia: So that's where you got to. Kopin: Yes. I've been balled up down here by L'Arc's feet. L'Arc: Do you need something? Kopin: I saw that the two of you were being forced to put on clown costumes by the others... L'Arc: Yeah, we lost a little bet. Otherwise, it would've been Serge. Anyway, you were saying? Kopin: I thought I could be of some help, so I came. Ryfia: Help? Kopin: Yes. I dressed up as a clown too. L'Arc: Well, you do kind of have a clown face... but what else has changed? Ryfia: Sorry Kopin... It's just we can't see what you've done, really. Kopin: Well, that's unfortunate! And I thought I did a good job... Ryfia: Of what? Kopin: Putting makeup on my face! L'Arc: Huh? You're joking right? Kopin: No, I am not joking! Ryfia: Wha...? L'Arc: Are you saying that you're wearing makeup right now?!? Kopin: Yes. It's very natural-looking... light makeup. L'Arc: Well... That's kinda pointless isn't it?... - -[Urgent Business]- Location: Opalus, Faculty Wing Hallway -Costumes L'Arc= Lonewolf Ryfia= New Arrival Rastan= The Gardener Cecille= Grade-skipper Rastan: That's fine. If anyone asks, the general was Leslie's former teacher. I don't mind helping out. L'Arc: Fine, but this isn't a request from the guild or anything. Besides, it's not like anyone's forcing discipline on us... Rastan: Well, I think it's a fine arrangement. L'Arc: Oh, really? Cecille: Oh, stop being so stingy! I'm just happy that I finally get to wear a uniform! I bet you're happy, too, L'Arc. Deep down, you know? Besides, you got to see Ryfia! Ryfia: What about me? Cecille: Oh, nothing. We're just talking about human stuff. Ryfia: Human stuff? L'Arc: Enough, already! What does it matter?! Speaking of which, where's the guy who likes "stuff" the most? Cecille: Serge? He was giving a lecture on the third floor a second ago. L'Arc: Wha...?! He's taking this way too seriously. I'll go get him! Rastan: I'm going too. The students aren't safe, especially the girls! (L'Arc and Rastan leave) Ryfia: Cecille, where's Leslie? Cecille: Oh, she's gone off to have some fun. Ryfia: Huh...? Cecille: She said she was going to go and get whatever she could from the boys around here. Ryfia: Whaaat...? - -[Dark Shadows]- Location: Diamant, Zamuel's Martial School -Costumes Cecille= Mystery Garb Rastan= Wood Robes (Rastan starts off wearing his default outfit) Rastan: Hey, is that...? Cecille: Yes! The same outfit as that big, bad enemy! (Rastan changes clothes) Rastan: In that case... Cecille: Wow! I never thought I'd see Rastan change first! Rastan: Really? Well, I guess I don't mind this outfit as much... Cecille: You know, the two of us standing here look like... Rastan: Father and daughter? Cecille: No. Rastan: Workmates? Cecille: No, no. Rastan: ...Then what? Cecille: Two people with a sordid, racy past. Rastan: What...?! Cecille: Just kidding! Rastan: That's a relief! Cecille: Hey Rastan? When we get to the happy ending of this adventure... What do you say you and I get together and do some training? Rastan: Sure. Nothing would suit me more. Cecille: Really? Rastan: Of course! You don't see someone as young as you with so much skill too often. Cecille: Yay! You have to promise though! Rastan: I promise. - -After clearing the game- -[Bride and Groom]- Location: Benetnasch, Cathedral Praying Hall -Costumes L'Arc= Groom's Attire Ryfia= Bride's Dress Cecille: Oh, there you are! Give me a hand! Ryfia and L'Arc won't come out! Serge: Right now? You just don't know when to give up! Leslie: Shall I go yank them out? L'Arc: What, cat got your tongue? Ryfia: ...This is so embarrassing! Leslie: Oh, look at the cute bride and groom! Cecille: Congratulations! L'Arc: Do you really have to try on every single costume that you find? Serge: This is a fine piece of clothing. Hand-crafted. Very intricate. Leslie: I bet there are tons of people that would love to wear that if they ever had a chance. Cecille: Yeah, I'm too short to fit into that. Ryfia: ...I'm having fun, but what about you L'Arc? L'Arc: Not really... I'm too nervous... Ryfia: Well, so am I. I wonder why...? L'Arc: Well... Leslie: Sigh. I can't even find the nerve to tease them. Cecille: What she said. Serge: ...No, I guess not. Cecille: Leslie and Serge are averting their eyes... And L'Arc and Ryfia are looking like that... I'm really feeling like a fifth wheel here! - -[Truly Exceptional]- Location: Retea Forest, Kopin Secret Village, Great Kopin Tree -Costumes Ryfia= Mystery Witch Cecille= Mystery Garb Leslie= Mystery Witch Cecille: Well? So...? Ryfia: So... what? Cecille: What do you think? Do I look good? Am I cute? That's what I was asking! Ryfia: Oh! Gotcha! In that case, yes, you look cute! Cecille: I knew it! I look good in everything! Leslie: So what about what I'm wearing? Hmm? Cecille: Wow, that's quite the bold statement! Ryfia: It's gorgeous! Leslie: What about you over there all balled up? What do you think? Kopin: I'm speechless. I'm quivering with emotion. Leslie: Don't you quiver all the time anyway? Kopin: You all look very nice, but Leslie looks particularly lovely. Leslie: ...Hmmm? - -[The Infinite Maze]- Location: Infinite Maze of Allwise, Wandering Memories I -Costumes L'Arc= Azure Robes Ryfia= Azure Dress L'Arc: These clothes seem pretty old, don't you think? Ryfia: You're right. From before Rastan and Cecille's time, maybe. L'Arc: They look brand new, though. Ryfia: Maybe some kind of Code was used to store them. L'Arc: You mean, they might have been important? Ryfia: Maybe. ...I wonder if we should be wearing them? L'Arc: Wait, didn't you say we have to put them on? Besides, it'd be a waste if we didn't. Ryfia: I guess you're right. L'Arc: Plus, they fit so well, it's like they were tailored for us. Ryfia: Strange... L'Arc: You got that right! It's like there were twins of us living centuries ago or something! Ryfia: You think...? - [------------------------] [Optional Rogress---(ORG)] [------------------------] All three Optional Rogress can be obtained any time after defeating Alf in the Verct Skywalk. [-------] [Mashgar] [-------] (The party has flown to the top of a tall mountain in Olquina when they see a golden, bird/horse hybrid creature appear and quickly soar past them) Ryfia: What was that? There's something outside the window. Cecille: It's probably, you know, a giant bird! Maybe it's the one we met when we crashed the Lightship in Ebur! Ryfia: It's Marshmallow! Rastan: You mean Mashgar? Leslie: Is the ship okay? Cecille: It seems okay. Serge: Last time we came off a little worse for wear. We'd better watch out. Cecille: No problem! If the Cecille the Brave can exert its power fully, we'll be able to catch up to Mashgar. L'Arc: Great, I don't know how many times we can take meeting him. Serge: Great? You mean you plan on capturing or getting rid of him? Rastan: L'Arc, look at the map display. One of the marks is moving! That mark's got to be Mashgar! That's it! This is proof that the ship has detected a new Rogress! L'Arc: I still remember seeing that one at Cradle. That's where Allul said the name "Mashgar." Leslie: She also said the name "Kudoan." Rastan: Even if that lady was nuts, the fact that Mashgar's a Rogress... ...That should mean you can bond with him, too. Serge: So, what you're saying is... ...There are more Rogress for L'Arc to bond with than the nine required to enter the Holy Land of Noire? Rastan: Yes. Serge: Well, it could be worth while. Leslie: You're surprisingly bold, Rastan. Cecille: L'Arc, what are we going to do? L'Arc: What are we going to do? You just can't get out there fast enough, can you? We fight when it's time to fight, and wait for our chance if it isn't. Cecille: Thanks! Alright, let's do it then! Ryfia: That went well. Cecille: Yeah. I'm coming for you Mashgar! (After upgrading their Lightship, the party rides all around Fulheim until they finally locate Mashgar and get within close proximity of him) Serge: Hey, that's close enough! Leslie: Think it's figured out what we're doing yet? L'Arc: Him? No idea... (Simmah speaks) Simmah: That's him, Mashgar the Solitary. He's causing a panic. Mashgar will react if I call him. He's going to pull us in. Are you ready? L'Arc: I've been waiting for you to ask that. Rastan: Here he comes! Cecille: Prepare yourself! This is for Cecille the Brave! (The party battles and defeats Mashgar) L'Arc: We won, didn't we? I wonder why it's not letting me bond with it? Ryfia: There could be something wrong with Mashgar's BioCode. Serge: Just like Gula's? That was the handiwork of Ignacy, wasn't it? Ryfia: Yes. But for Mashgar, it might have been because he was one of the early Rogress... Rastan: One of the Heroes who volunteered early, before the process of creating Rogress was perfected? Ryfia: Yes, I believe that's correct. L'Arc: What should we do, then? Ryfia: Let me try one of my songs. If I could optimize the fragments of Code scattered within Mashgar, I think he might agree to help us. He was one of my father's friends. Just like you and I... Cecille: Gotcha. He's all yours, Ryfia! Ryfia: ...Thank you. (Ryfia sings her hymn) Mashgar: This melody...so familiar... My destiny was to be the spear... pursue the dark and impale it... To convert the Hozone to Ray... Kudoan, overjoyed, presented me with the Logos of Solitude... Was it... tomorrow...? Yesterday, new lives adorned the twelve rings, yet the doomed thirteenth... Ryfia: Mashgar! L'Arc: He's still confused. Even Ryfia's song isn't working! Ryfia: I think he's barely awake, and still coming to his senses. Let's give him some time. Cecille: Erm...hullo? Just wait and see? Leslie: Sounds like it. So even a Rogress can be a cute little sleepyhead. Mashgar: ...I understand now! Yes, it must be so! It is you, Ciel! No... how could it be?!? I have been wandering the skies for a thousand years. Ryfia: Ciel is my mother. My name is Ryfia, daughter of Hardel and Ciel. Mashgar: Ah, that is why! Little wonder. I feel a familiar presence, from within your leader... So it is you who wields the Logos of my ancient comrades. Though I do not feel them all... (L'Arc steps forward) L'Arc: My name is L'Arc. Mashgar, will you bond with me? (Simmah's Dragon Gem appears, emits a few waves of light, and then vanishes) Mashgar: I see, Hardel. I will follow your suggestion, and grant him my powers. Leslie: What just happened? Ryfia: I believe my father spoke with Marshmallow, and convinced him to help L'Arc. Cecille: That was one word away from being a heartwarming little story! So close, Ryfia! Ryfia: I-I'm sorry...! L'Arc: You two done yet...? Whatever! Anyway... Mashgar, grant me your Logos, The Logos of Solitude! Mashgar: As you wish...! (L'Arc bonds with Mashgar. Later, the party returns to Ebur to inform Grantz about Mashgar) Grantz: L'Arc, I can tell... It's written all over your face. You finally did it, didn't you? You crushed and captured Mashgar! I'm right, aren't I? L'Arc: Sorry Grantz, but I didn't capture Mashgar. I signed an agreement and... I turned him into a rock. Grantz: Huh? What did you say? You turned Mashgar into a rock? You guys are incredible...! You turned your eternal rival into a rock eh?! That's hilarious! Ha! Ha! Ha! [------] [Kudoan] [------] (The party travels to the Waxing Crescent Inn on Fulheim's northern continent. A light flashes once they arrive) L'Arc: ...What the!? Ryfia: L'Arc? Leslie: Are you okay? L'Arc: I felt dizzy all of a sudden... (Another light flashes. A silhouetted creature's voice is heard) ???: How dare you, Child of Eesa, come trespassing in my realm! Are you unafraid of being annihilated!? L'Arc: W-who the heck...? ???: I am the one who drowned in his own intellect, who faltered, and who now mourns. The one they called the Twelve's greatest mind. L'Arc: The Twelve's greatest mind? What are you talking about...? ???: The Child of Eesa, with numerous Rogress in tow... You are the essence of my despair...! It pains me to see yooou...! L'Arc: What did I do to you!? ???: The Child of Eesa... chooses the Law. That, in itself, spells pain for me! L'Arc: I don't know what you're trying to tell us, but I've sworn to reclaim mankind's future. By choosing a Law of our own! (Another light flashes, and the creatures reveals its purple, rabbit-like appearance to the party) Serge: ...Hey, hey. The voice's owner turned out surprisingly cute! Rastan: The force of its presence, however, leaves little doubt. This is one of the Rogress. Kudoan: My name is Kudoan. He who created your god. And the tragically foolish one. Ryfia: Please tell us... what do you mean when you say you created our god? Are you referring to the Singing Stone? Kudoan: I turned the Singing Stone into a god. It was my idea to proclaim that thinking Orb as divine. Therefore, I am responsible for the god's creation. Despite wielding the Logos of Wit, I erred in my decisions... My sin is greater than any of my friends'... And yet, Child of Eesa, you said you would choose a Law of your own. Do you intend to deny the Law of your god? L'Arc: Yeah. Kudoan: ...Then I must ask you to prove your worth to me. Cecille: What do you mean by "prove your worth"? Kudoan: The strength of your will. That your resolve matches that of Eesa! L'Arc: The hard way, you mean. Kudoan: Should you lack the strength to uphold your Law, I shall strip you of all your Rogress. Prepare yourself! (The party battles and defeats Kudoan) Kudoan: ...With the prowess you have shown me, you will not need to bow before Eesa. L'Arc: Tell me, Kudoan... Why do you call yourself foolish? Even if you're the one that chose the Singing Stone as our god, you didn't force it upon us, did you? Kudoan: A thousand years ago, I was the young and proud advisor among the Twelve. I was the one who suggested to Allul that she proclaim the Singing Stone as a god... At that time, the Twelve held near-absolute power over all the people. We hardly needed to force them to follow our suggestions. Despite my Wit, I underestimated our hold over the people... I never anticipated mankind's total reliance on their god. Ryfia: And this is why you call yourself foolish...? Kudoan: I had told myself... Should the Child of Eesa ever attempt to collect the Rogress and choose the Law of god, I would kill the Child. L'Arc: Are you still going to do that? Kudoan: Having met you, I now know that the time has come to address my wrong doings. L'Arc, Child of Eesa and destroyer of the old world... Take my Logos, the Logos of Wit... L'Arc: Yes, Kudoan. Lend me your power. (L'Arc bonds with Kudoan) Leslie: To think that some folks among the Rogress would be against the system that is our god... Of course, it sounds kinda weird to refer to the Rogress as "folks". Cecille: Sounds okay to me! Well, they were people to start with! Ryfia: I have to admit, I'm feeling a little bit sorry for Eesa... Serge: Why's that? Ryfia: It almost sounds as if we made Eesa our god, for our own reasons, then got fed up with him. Again, for our own reasons... L'Arc: ...You do have a point there. Rastan: Humans are so arrogant! But for better or worse, it may be thanks to that arrogance that mankind has persevered thus far. L'Arc: So there's strength in our arrogance, then... [-----] [Allul] [-----] (The party discovers a newly-opened route within the Mountain Ruins area of Resolvent Iceberg) Ryfia: The wall has crumbled here. Rastan: A side-effect of the oceans crystallizing, perhaps? Cecille: Looky here, there's a path leading deeper in! Serge: I say we take a look. We might stumble across something interesting. (The party proceeds through the path. They traverse the Hall of Silver Ice and emerge into the Snowy Altar area. They meet with Allul in her human form at the center of the altar) Allul: I have been waiting for you. L'Arc: Allul!? Ryfia: Is it really you? Allul: L'Arc and Ryfia. Destiny must have led your paths to this place. L'Arc: Who, or what, are you...? (Allul changes into her Rogress form) Allul: I am the leader of the Twelve... ...the one who proclaimed the Singing Stone as a god. L'Arc: No kidding...? -IF L'ARC HAS NOT BONDED WITH MASHGAR AND KUDOAN- Allul: ...I see you have yet to gather all my comrades. L'Arc: Who are they? Allul: Mashgar the Solitary, and Kudoan the Witful. Return here once you have bonded with them. (The party returns after bonding with the two Rogress) Allul: I see the Logos of Solitude and Wit are both yours now. Impressive... -CONTINUE WITH THE STORY- Allul: Child of Eesa, you who refuse to choose either of the Laws... If you wish to defy your deity, prove your worth by defeating Allul, the one who chose to create it! (The party defeats Allul in battle) L'Arc: Tell me this. You've been guiding us all along, right? Why fight now? Allul: Well... I needed to be sure of the power and resolve of Meridia's successor. L'Arc: Power and resolve, you say? Allul: I was hesitant at first... Should we seek godly protection, or should we remove it? Long ago, the world was ravaged by those fighting over Ray. Seeing so many others ushering the world towards doom, I sought the stone that sings the world's wishes, hoping to revive this world. Ryfia: And that Stone became our god... Allul: Indeed. And with the power of the Singing Stone, I was able to stop the ongoing conflicts. Yet mankind eventually came to expect the powers of a true god from the Singing Stone. My comrades and I became uncertain whether we had made the right choice. Eventually, Meridia revolted against the Stone, causing one of the Skywalks to fall. The world was tainted with Hozone, and mankind was forced to rely on their god for survival. A thousand years have passed, and I have learned - learned that the Stone itself is uncertain. L'Arc/Ryfia: What!? No way! L'Arc: You're saying our god is uncertain? Allul: I am. Which is why the Singing Stone has been waiting. Waiting for the Child of Eesa to choose... L'Arc: Choose one of the Laws, right? Real's or Imaginal's? Allul: I started to wonder whether relying on the Child of Eesa would be different from relying on our god. You have shown me the answer to that question through your travels. I wished for a final test of your bravery by my own hands. L'Arc: Did we make the cut? Allul: You did indeed. Chooser of a new future, I ask you to bond with me. L'Arc: I will. For a future that doesn't need either Law! Allul: My gratitude, L'Arc. I bestow upon you the Logos of Foresight. (L'Arc bonds with Allul) Rastan: You now carry the hopes of the Divine Race, from a thousand years ago. L'Arc: Yeah. Allul, your hopes are in good hands, I swear. [-----------------] [Allwise-----(ALW)] [-----------------] (At the New Moon Inn off the coast of Jada, the party, prior to fighting the final boss, finds a teleportation pentagram on the edge of a cliff) Cecille: Hey guys, looky here! Serge: Hmmm. A teleportation pentagram? Almost a little too obvious, if you ask me. Leslie: I hope we won't be jumping in without knowing what's waiting on the other side... L'Arc: ... Ryfia: L'Arc... L'Arc? L'Arc: Oh, sorry. It's this strange feeling I'm having... Rastan: If something's amiss, we should leave this place immediately. L'Arc: Nah, it's nothing like that. It's as if someone were waiting up ahead. Like I remembered a promise, long-forgotten. Ryfia: Let's go and make sure then. Cecille: Yep yep! Leslie: Girls, we don't have time to play around now like that! Serge: Hey, why not? Leslie: Always so thoughtful, aren't you? What do you think, L'Arc? Or rather, what are we doing? L'Arc: I'd say we should check this out. Ryfia: We're going in, then? Okay. Rastan: I have no objections. Serge: Sounds good to me. L'Arc: How about you, Cecille? Cecille: Of course! L'Arc: And you, Leslie? Leslie: I'm not against going at all. But let's make sure we're ready for this, okay? L'Arc: Good point. We'll come back here when we know we're ready. (The party steps on the pentagram and is transported to a series of connected platforms hanging over a blue void, various blocks and objects filling the background) Ryfia: Where are we? L'Arc: Hmmm. Pop through a portal, end up some place weird. Rastan: Stay on your guard. Not that you still need such advice, of course. Cecille: This is so exciting! I betcha there's a wonderful secret waiting for us, right ahead! Leslie: Have to agree with our resident little hero. Serge: So, what now? Keep wandering around aimlessly? L'Arc: Kinda hard to ignore this huge, weird thing in front of us. Let's take a look... (A light flashes) L'Arc: ...Huh!? Ryfia: L'Arc...? (Another light flashes more slowly) L'Arc: Nah, it's nothing. Just one of my Dragon Gems acting up... (A Dragon Gem floats into the air and begins to shine. Allul appears in its place) L'Arc: Something wrong, Allul? Allul: To think that you would come this far... Then again, L'Arc, you have tamed the Rogress and reached the heart of the Holy Land. (Allul reverts to her human form) Allul: I never would have thought the Infinite Maze would still be here. Luze never mentioned it... Ryfia: Then you know this place? Allul: Indeed. This is the Infinite Maze of Allwise. I have been here in the past, in the company of your father, and other members of the Twelve. These are the vestiges of a new world, one that Eesa was about to create. Rastan: So this place was a possible future for Fulheim, chosen by Eesa... ...before you became the Rogress? Leslie: The world was covered with Hozone a thousand years ago, wasn't it? So the Twelve decided to turn themselves into the Rogress, in hopes of saving the world? Allul: Before that happened, there was another possibility that we had been exploring. Luze's answer... The Singing Stone's answer emerged as the Infinite Maze. Cecille: What is this place for? Allul: All matter, the lives of mortals, the fruits of their civilization, are doomed to decay. As is Fulheim... Luze considered keeping everlasting records of all that ever existed. To safeguard everything, forever, all in one location. The ultimate salvation, for one and all. Serge: I think I get it. The Cradle of Stars in Lascarde was made to preserve the body... This place was made to remember everything, even after the body itself is gone. Sound about right? Allul: Yes, though that is not its only purpose. Ryfia: Then this place remembers everyone we've ever lost? My dear mother, Master Zamuel, Dynos, Niko, Adele...! L'Arc: Really? No kidding? Allul: The plan was to record everything. Every single particle of matter, the sounds, the lights... All that ever existed on Fulheim would have been preserved. Yet Luze was unsuccessful. Leslie: Too big of a task even for the Singing Stone, I take it? Allul: Indeed. Recording and preserving everything was beyond even Luze's powers. The records did include our lost comrades, however. I remember my joy at meeting one of them. Yet even he disappeared after a while. Sadly, the records were incomplete. We opted to turn ourselves into the Rogress. Many of us had disagreed with the Maze in the first place. Serge: Why's that? Allul: They saw little point in being preserved as light and sound, after passing away. Serge: Hmm. I gotta agree with that. Allul: L'Arc and Ryfia. I have a favor to ask of you. L'Arc: I'm listening... Allul: Head for the end, the very end of this place. You will find someone there that tried, yet failed to save the world. L'Arc: Who is this someone? Allul: ... The Thirteenth Hero of Noire. He volunteered for the experiments in our efforts to turn ourselves into the Rogress. L'Arc: But something happened? Allul: Yes... The experiment left him transformed... He became a Feldragon instead. His power was devastating, far surpassing that of all the other Feldragons in existence. Ryfia: So you had to leave him here. Allul: We had no way of saving him, and far too little time... Cecille: ... Allul: I had assumed this place had disappeared long, long ago. That day... I saw Luze seal this place up with my own eyes... ...and taking back just one record, just one precious name... L'Arc: Lemme guess. That name was... Allul: L'Arc, some things are best left untold. Will you take care of him? L'Arc: I'll get right on it. Ryfia: I'm coming with you! Cecille: Same here! Just think about it. A quest from the Twelve Heroes themselves! Serge: Yeah, no arguments here. Rastan: For once, I agree with you. I have no grounds to object. Leslie: Yep, I have to admit, I want to look around this strange place. L'Arc: Looks like we're all set then. Sound good, Allul? Allul: Thank you. I thank you all. (A light flashes) Allul: You will be meeting many familiar faces up ahead... Yet your joy will only be temporary, as it was for myself. They will help you proceed, but only while you are here. Any reunions in this place entail another separation. Always remember that... (Allul is gone. The party travels through the maze until they come to a teleportation pentagram. They use it to reach the next area, Wandering Memories II, where they see Dynos staring into the distance) Cecille: Is it you, Dynos!? (She approaches him) Cecille: Dynos, can you hear me? It's me, Cecille, your sister! Dynos: Of course I hear you, Cecille. And I recognize you! Why wouldn't I? Enough of that. I have a lot to think about. Cecille: Think about what? Down here, all alone? Dynos: That's exactly what I'm wondering. Why did I end up here? Why am I talking to you like this? Cecille: I... That, I might be able to tell you. Dynos: Really? Cecille: We will be parting ways, once again. I have to lose you once more. Dynos: Is that why I'm here? Cecille: Yep yep, kinda. Come with us, okay? We need to get to the very end, and defeat a boy who's waiting there. You have to help us! Dynos: Okay. I will, Cecille... (Dynos joins the party. They continue until they reach Wandering Memories V, where they come face-to-face with a red, plant-like monster) Serge: Wow, a friendly face. Ryfia: If it isn't that huge flower we fought back in the Nabra Jungle! Cecille: You call this a flower? No way! Flowers are supposed to be cute! Dynos: You're not helping, Cecille. This flower is dangerous. Too dangerous! Leslie: Too many horns, not enough roses. Rastan: Remember your lessons from when you faced it last time. Serge: I second that. Need a refresher? L'Arc: No. Do YOU? Look sharp everyone, here it comes! (The party fights the monster known as Baal and defeats it) Rastan: As I thought... L'Arc: Yeah. It was much tougher this time around. Ryfia: Will we need to fight more up ahead? Cecille: It wouldn't be fun if we didn't! Dynos: Cecille, I hope you won't cry when the going gets tough. Cecille: Grrr. Look. Who's. Talking. Dynos: ... Leslie: I can almost feel it. Something precious must be hidden somewhere ahead. The kind of secret you can't help discovering and revealing. Serge: Can't help it, can you? Leslie: Nope. Even though I know curiosity will hurt the kitty once in a while. Serge: Second nature, eh? Cecille: Karma, if you ask me! Rastan: L'Arc, let us proceed. Dynos: Little point in lingering here. L'Arc: Yeah. Let's go, Ryfia. Ryfia: What about the other three? L'Arc: They'll scamper up soon enough. Serge: Harsh words. Cecille: He treated us like a litter of puppies! Leslie: He deserves to have one of his nasty little secrets exposed some day. Serge: A wonderful idea I fully endorse! Cecille: Wait and see. Just wait and see... (A pentagram forms in the direction the party came from) L'Arc: If we end up needing supplies, this teleportation pentagram should take us back to the New Moon Inn. (The party continues into the Recurring Memories portion of the maze. They reach Recurring Memories V and confront another monster) L'Arc: So this one's up next... Serge: I remember having a hard time against this one. Dynos: Obviously not an easy fight. Ryfia: It's that huge lobster again. Dynos: Huh? Leslie: I should probably stop licking my lips I guess! Dynos: Licking your lips? Ryfia: Boiled lobster? Dynos: What the... Leslie: Mmmmm. Serge: We sound pretty stupid, don't we? Cecille: Ah, geez! Dynos: Cecille? Cecille: Something wrong, Dynos? Dynos: Why are your friends so lax right before getting ready to fight? Cecille: Oh, it's okay. This is how we roll. Serge: Here goes! Boiled lobster, plenty for everyone, coming right up! Cecille: Hey, enough fooling around! Mr. Lobster wants a piece of us too! Serge: Yeah! What she said! Leslie: It's such a pity we have to fight old acquaintances again. Rastan: Should we ignore it and move on? L'Arc: Quit fooling around, guys! Let's finish it off! (The party battles and defeats Leviathan. After the battle, Dynos's body flashes twice. He steps forward and begins to fade away into light) Dynos: Cecille... Cecille: Dynos? So it's goodbye then? Dynos: Yes, it seems so... Hey, Slacker and Straight-Face! Serge: Erm... Did you mean US? Rastan: ...Apparently. Dynos: You take good care of my sister. Or else... Serge: Yep. She's in good hands. Rastan: Understood. Cecille: Hey, what's this talk all about? I'M the one taking care of Slacker and Straight-Face! Dynos: Maybe you should take turns once in a while, Cecille. Cecille: ...Ya think? Dynos: Yes. Definitely. You still have a long way to go. Be careful, Cecille. Cecille: Okay. Gotcha. See you next time, Dynos? Dynos: ...Yes. See you next time. Cecille: That's that, then! Onward, hirelings! (Dynos disappears. The party continues into the red-colored Hopeful Memories area and meets Adele) L'Arc: Adele? Is it really you? Ryfia: Adele... Adele: L'Arc! What am I doing here? Nothing makes sense any more! L'Arc: It's all right, Adele. I'm not sure myself. But I know there's no need to worry. Adele: I'm not like you! I can't stand being unsure! L'Arc: You don't have to be. We're two different people! Adele: I don't...? You mean it? L'Arc: Yeah. Adele will always be Adele. It's okay to feel worried. Everyone worries once in a while. We're not gods. Just plain humans. Adele: Y-you're right. I can only be myself. Even if I hate myself for it. L'Arc: Adele, I need your help. We need to get past all this. Adele: You need me for this? L'Arc: Yes, you! Adele: All right, L'Arc... I'll come with you. (Adele joins the party. They head to Hopeful Memories V and find a dragon enemy there) L'Arc: This feeling... Adele: What's the matter? L'Arc: When I'm here, there's always this strange feeling. Somewhat familiar, but also untrue. As if my heart is being blocked by something. Adele: L'Arc, I really don't know why you feel that way. But I do know that my being here makes you feel awkward. Ryfia: Adele... Is it because you - Adele: It's all right, Ryfia. It really is. Thank you for everything... Come on, now. We don't have time to waste. This should be an easy fight! L'Arc: Heh, you know it. Ryfia: L'Arc, Adele, here we go! (The party battles and defeats Jarmungandr. Adele starts to fade away) Adele: I have this strange feeling too... Though I'm happy you came here, L'Arc, Ryfia... L'Arc: You're saying we have to part ways again now, right Adele? Adele: Yes, I'm afraid so. Ryfia, please take care of everyone. They need you. Ryfia: Okay. I promise. Leslie: Such a strange place, isn't it? Reunions and farewells, one after the other. Just like memories, coming and going endlessly... Serge: That's exactly what memories are. If we remembered everything all the time, we'd never get anything done. But every now and then, you can remember something that fills your heart with joy and happiness. Rastan: If this place is an incomplete future, created by divine design... being reunited with Adele and the others may have been one such possible outcome. Adele: I agree. It might be one possible future. Okay then, be careful everyone! I'll be praying for you L'Arc. Be careful. You get carried away far too easily! L'Arc: Heh, story of my life! I'll see you then Adele... Adele: Go get 'em L'Arc! L'Arc: You know it! (Adele disappears. The party continues into the Obscure Memories area and reunites with Niko) Ryfia: Niko...! L'Arc: No way. Can't be...! Niko: Hey, it's Mr. L'Arc! Whatcha doin' here? L'Arc: You're asking me? Don't you remember what happened to you...? Niko: Exactly what I was wondering, actually... I don't know how or when I got here. It feels pretty recent, but I'm not too sure... Ryfia: Don't you remember??? ...What happened at Lascarde? Niko: Well, sorta. I remember being really scared... L'Arc: Come with us, Niko. There's an enemy ahead we need to defeat. We need your help to do that. Niko: ...I beg your pardon? L'Arc: What's wrong? Niko: Erm, well... 'Twas sorta surprising to have you ask me like that. Ryfia: He he he! L'Arc: Why are you smiling at me, Ryfia? Ryfia: It's nothing. I just felt like smiling. L'Arc: ...Ah, whatever. Let's get a move on, you two! Ryfia: Okay. Niko: Sure thing, Boss! (Niko joins the party. They make their way to Obscure Memories V and confront the enemy stationed there) Rastan: So this one's next. Cecille: Pretty tough, wasn't it? Not that our resident hero had any problems... Niko: (Pointing at the enemy) Boss! Folks! Leave this one to Niko! Leslie: Run and gun? Without the gun? Niko: Hey! That's harsh! Ryfia: He he he! Serge: Savoring the nostalgia, Mr. L'Arc? L'Arc: So what if I am? Serge: He he he! Let's get down to business then, shall we? L'Arc: Yeah. Here goes! (The party battles and defeats Abaddon. Niko body flashes) Niko: Uh oh... Ryfia: Is something wrong? Niko: Sorry Boss... Looks like this is it for me... (He begins to fade away) Ryfia: Oh no. Why? L'Arc: I dunno... But I guess that's how it is. Niko: Really sorry, Boss. L'Arc: You haven't changed. Niko: Eh? Me? L'Arc: ...At all. We'll be moving on, then. Ryfia: Goodbye, Niko. I'm so tired of saying goodbye... Niko: Yessir! I'll be here, wishing you all luck! L'Arc: See ya, Niko. Bye, and thanks... (Niko disappears. The party continues into the Closing Memories area. It houses a connected series of platforms with blue, gold and black designs on them over a purple background. Upon reaching Closing Memories V, the party sees a teleportation pentagram in the distance. Before they can reach it, the purple ooze above them flashes, and a dragon swoops down) L'Arc: This must be the Thirteenth Hero of Noire, that Allul mentioned. Serge: Or whatever it is he ended up as. This won't be easy! Nosiree... Not easy at all! Ryfia: Remember! This isn't a mere Feldragon! It's much more awful... Plus, it's driven by sorrow... (Allul appears in front of the party and addresses the monster) Allul: I never even imagined I'd ever be able to see your face again. How long has it been since we last met...? L'Arc: Since you last met? Rastan: I see... This place, Eesa's garden, is also a memorial to a long-lost friend. Leslie: Tsk tsk. Not just any friend, obviously. Allul: (To the dragon) You must hate us. You must hate me for leaving you all alone in this lonely prison. L'Arc: Allul... Cecille: He's full of pain and sadness. Crying all alone... Just like Dynos... Serge: I can't believe the last quest of the Twelve Heroes is the slaying of a friend... Rastan: ... Allul: L'Arc... L'Arc: It's all good. All we can do is prove our faith in the future we chose for ourselves. Ryfia: I will fight too! In my father's name! Serge: We came this far, hounded by hordes of nasties. Can't just turn back empty-handed. Cecille: Evil and sadness need to be purged! Cecille will smite you with all her might! Rastan: The pain of slaying a true friend... We lay claim to that sin. Leslie: I'd hate to turn and run from such a juicy target. Giving this my best shot here! Allul: ...I thank you. Every one of you. (Allul rises into the air and faces the dragon) Allul: You told me, before you turned into a Feldragon... Told me you wanted the strength to protect me. Yet protecting you was always my pride and joy. That has not changed. Ever. If fulfilling your will means slaying you here, then I... Allul the Foreseeing, will embrace your warmth, and feel everlasting tears on my cheeks... (A light flashes) Allul: Just as I felt your warmth when I held you long ago... (The party engages the Feldragon Allwise in battle and eventually emerges victorious) L'Arc: Did we do it...? Allul: His physical being has been freed from the chains of the Infinite Maze. Your promise may be unfulfilled, yet there is no need for sorrow. You are free now... Cecille: His promise? Serge: That's one question you shouldn't ask, dear Minimal Lady. Cecille: Huh? I don't get it. Leslie: We'll tell you when you grow up. Cecille: Ah, geeeez. Ryfia: Allul, what will happen to this place, this Infinite Maze? Allul: This is the realm of Eesa. It will likely remain in existence, destined to persist forever. Rastan: Forever? Allul: To record, reproduce and repeat. That is the essence of eternity. Yet his physical being is here no more... L'Arc, all of you, my heartfelt thanks for saving him. L'Arc: ...Uh-huh. Allul: This is the innermost layer of the Infinite Maze. Once you have bid farewell to the vestiges of your lost friends, proceed beyond. (The party steps into the pentagram at the end of the room) L'Arc: If we come here, we get to see our fallen friends... I wonder how long this will last? Ryfia: ... L'Arc: I guess it doesn't really matter. When we see them here, they're exactly as we remember them. Like our memories have come alive... Ryfia: Let's come visit again some time. I feel this place is here for a very good reason. L'Arc: Yeah, you're right. Okay then, let's head back to the New Moon Inn for now. Ryfia: Yes, L'Arc. Let's go... (The party leaves the Infinite Maze) [-----------------------] [Miscellaneous-----(MCA)] [-----------------------] [Meeting with General Freya] (After the events of the Crystal Continent and Verct Skywalk, L'Arc enters a room inside Diamant Castle and talks to a guard) Honest watchman: You are first Sergeant Lagoon, yes? The mercenary who was authorized by the Imperial Family? L'Arc: Not anymore. I'd like to speak to General Freya. Honest watchman: General Freya...? Certainly. Please wait here. (Some time later, Freya meets with L'Arc) Freya: I know Lord Alf is away. But what brings you here? L'Arc: General Freya... Freya: This isn't where you should be. What do you want? L'Arc: I need to talk to you. Freya: Me? L'Arc: About Niko. Freya: Is he safe?! I heard he was taken to the Skywalk! L'Arc: Niko is gone. He protected Diamant in exchange for his life... Freya: ! L'Arc: He told me to tell you that he was sorry to put you through so much trouble. Freya: Oh... Did he... Did Niko say that? L'Arc: General, Niko was secretly giving you information about us, right? Freya: Oh! You knew... But I don't want you to misunderstand. Niko wasn't doing it to get you in trouble. Sir Weiss ordered him. L'Arc: Sir Weiss? Freya: Sir Weiss was monitoring you because he was worried about you. He really had good intentions. Niko was uneasy with his task and always wanted to quit. He always felt like he was betraying you. L'Arc: Niko you idiot... Freya: I made him monitor you. Please don't blame him! L'Arc: I have no right to be critical of him. I pushed him too hard... This drove him into a corner and then finally to his death... Freya: ... L'Arc: General... Freya: Leslie, was it... Your other companion who uses a gun? Please give this to her. L'Arc: This is... Freya: I was going to give it to Niko. I'm sure it will help you along your journey. (Freya gives L'Arc the Bennex pistol) L'Arc: General Freya, we'll continue our journey now. The world turned out like this but... But we have to go on! Now don't put yourself in danger! Niko wouldn't be happy if you did. Okay, goodbye for now! Freya: ... Wait!! I really enjoyed Niko's stories. Not the stories about gods or his special missions... I liked the stories about his adventures. Stories about dinner menus and flowers growing in the streets! I said they were pointless, but I actually liked them. I really looked forward to hearing his stories... L'Arc: Yeah, that sounds like Niko... Freya: Thank you for telling me about him. L'Arc Bright Lagoon! I pray that you have a safe journey. Now, go and save this world! L'Arc: Roger that! -
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