ffbe_script | Entries tagged with ffbe script

Previously...

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AWAKE - FIRE SHRINE 1

(The party, minus Lasswell, rushes into the Fire Shrine. Veritas of the Flame is already there.)

Rain: Veritas of the Flame!

Veritas of the Flame: So, you came after me. But you still can't beat me. Don't waste my time, would you?

Lid: Fight us first, chuckles, and we'll see if it's a waste of time or not!

Rain: That's right.

(Lasswell enters.)

Lasswell: Rain... Leave this battle to me.

Rain(!): To you? Alone? What are you talking about!? This isn't an opponent to take on alone!

(Lasswell draws his weapon.)

Lasswell: If... if I can draw forth Purple Lightning's true power, then I can beat even this fiend.

Veritas of the Flame: That is true. But--and this is just a minor point, but perhaps relevant--you can't draw forth Purple Lightning's true power.

Lasswell: Not "can't". Couldn't. In some part of my heart, I was holding myself back. Because of Sir Raegen...and Rain... and that vow I made so long ago...

(The scene flashes back to young Lasswell practicing his swordwork. Raegen comes up behind him.)

Raegen: You swing your sword as if it were a hammer.

Lasswell: Sir Raegen!?

Raegen: Your frustration drives you to tears, and you practice until your hands bleed. Why do you feel you must push yourself so hard?

Lasswell: I... Sir, I...! I want to be strong! Stronger than Rain or you or... anyone in the world! I don't want to give up! So what if I''m not your son! So what if I'm not as gifted as Rain! I do not want to give up yet!

Raegen: Mm-hmmm. I see.

(Raegen steps closer to Lasswell and holds out Purple Lightning.)

Raegen: In that case... You are the one who deserves this sword.

Lasswell: Wha... B-but that is...

Raegen: Purple Lightning will only reveal its true power to a man who seeks strength no matter how circumstances conspire against him.

(Lasswell takes the sword.)

Raegen: Lasswell. Become strong. Do not lose to Rain. Become greater than I ever could.

Lasswell: Sir... Raegen...

(Raegen turns and begins to leave.)

Raegen: I'll be looking forward to seeing it.

(The scene returns to present.)

Lasswell: But no longer! I will become strong! Strong enough to defeat anyone! I swear it upon this blade! And that goes for you as well, Rain... I will not be beaten, even by you! It's time we determine which one of us is the best knight. Through battle!

Rain: Lasswell... I've been waiting... to hear just those words!

(Lasswell turns to Veritas of the Flame and draws Purple Lightning. He begins to glow.)

Veritas of the Flame: Purple Lightning is... responding to Lasswell's determination.

Lasswell: Take this!

(Lasswell swings at Veritas of the Flame, who steps back.)

Veritas of the Flame: Urgh...

Lasswell: Now! Everybody, attack as one!

----------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AWAKE - FIRE SHRINE 2

Veritas of the Flame: Impossible... I've been... beaten...?

(Veritas of the Flame falls to his knees.)

Lid: All right! We did it!

Jake: Our fish-hearted friend had a few surprises up his sleeves! I honestly didn't think he could defeat an enemy like that.

Lasswell: (...)

(Lasswell falls to his knees, his face flushed.)

Rain: Lasswell? Lasswell, what's wrong!? Stop messing around!

(Rain has rushed to Lasswell's side, who has collapsed on the ground.)

Fina: Rain! Rain, there's blood... soaking his shirt...

Rain(!): What...

Lid: This is serious, you guys! He's bleeding like crazy!

Rain: Lasswell! Why didn't you tell anyone if you were hurt!?

Lasswell: Sorry, Rain.. I always seem to end up... hiding things from you...

Rain: Hold on! We're going to get you patched up in no time!

Lasswell: No.. It's fine.. I already know... it's too late for me... I gave everything I had... for this battle...

Rain: What.. what are you saying? Lasswell!

Lasswell: I don't have any regrets. I got to tell you...before the end....

Rain: Idiot.. What do you mean, before the end? We've still got to battle it out to see who's best.... Don't you know how excited I was... to finally get to have a real fight against you... Don't go talking about the end.. This isn't the end... It can't be....

Lasswell: I'm... sorry...

(Rain kneels next to Lasswell.)

Rain: Lasswell! Don't close your eyes! No! You can't die!

Fina: Lasswell!

(There is a glow nearby. Veritas of the Dark appears!)

Lid: What!? Veritas of the Dark?

Nichol: What... Why would he appear at a time like this!

(Veritas of the Dark approaches Lasswell. Rain stands.)

Rain: Wh-what are you doing!? Don't you touch Lasswell!

Veritas of the Dark: Shut your mouth, and open your eyes.

Rain: What...

(Veritas of the Dark casts a spell on Lasswell!)

Fina: The bleeding... It's stopped...

Lid: The wound is closing, too!

(Lasswell gets up on his knees.)

Lasswell: I'm... still alive?

(Lasswell stands.)

Lasswell: Dark... What is the meaning of this?

(Veritas of the Dark goes to Veritas of the Flame and casts the same spell on him. Veritas of the Flame stands.)

Veritas of the Flame: Darklord. Thanks for coming.

Veritas of the Dark: I felt Purple Lightning awaken, so I came to see what was happening.... Look at the state of you, Flamelord.

Veritas of the Flame: Ha ha ha.. I know, right? How embarrassing.

Veritas of the Dark: You truly know no shame. Wipe that smile from your face.

Veritas of the Flame: Ah, but how can I not smile? I got to see Purple Lightning used the way it was meant to be. It's been seven hundred years since I enjoyed a battle this much! Isn't that why you saved him? Because you felt the same way?

Veritas of the Dark: True enough. It seemed too much of a shame to let him simply die here. The last time my blood sang so in battle was during the final stand against the Warriors of Hess. Rain. Lasswell. You have become men worthy of battling now. So... if you wish to protect the Fire Crystal, let us see you defeat the bot of us!

Lasswell: So, you saved me simply because you hoped for a serious battle?

Rqain: That Darklord... That's just the kind of guy he is. You haven't noticed, after all the times we've fought him?

Lasswell: Rain. Do you think we can win? Against both of them?

Rain: We can. If it's you and me working together. There's no way we'll lose. Not if we all work together!

-------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AWAKE - FIRE SHRINE ENDING

(The Veritas are defeated, kneeling on the ground.)

Veritas of the Dark: Fantastic... It looks like I won't stand a chance if I don't start getting serious against you soon.

Veritas of the Flame: Yeah... He's something. It's Lasswell, right? You do deserve Purple Lightning.

Veritas of the Dark: But we're not going to back down from our goals, either. Next time we meet, it won't go so well for you.

(Veritas of the Dark teleports them away.)

Nichol: It would seem... that we won.

Lid: Heck yeah we did! We won like crazy! We protected the crystal, and against two of the Veritas, no less!

Rain: Lasswell...

Lasswell: Rain.

Rain: There are many things I want to say to you, but... why don't we start with a handshake?

Lasswell: Yes.

(They shake hands.)

Fina: (Thank goodness... I'm so glad they're going to be all right.)

(The party approaches the Fire Crystal.)

Rain: It looks like the crystal is all right.

Lasswell: But... what do we do now? We succeeded in protecting the crystal from the Veritas. But it will only be a matter of time before Zoldaad uses it for evil once more.

Nichol: You have it exactly. We are posed with a serious problem.

Jake: Not really. It's no problem at all. I mean to say, the solution couldn't be simpler.

Lid: Jake? You got some kinda plan?

Jake: Yeah. All we have to do is... this!

(He walks up to the crystal and destroys it!)

Raain: What--!?

Jake: As long as the crystal exists, the empire will keep making weapons. So the only solution is to destroy it.

Nichol: Do you have any idea what you...

Jake: Sorry. but this way, the rebel army actually has a chance at winning this thing.

Lasswell: You... you meant to destroy the crystal from the start? That is why you came with us?

Jake: Of course. What chance would I have stood against foes like those, without strong warriors like you?

(The room begins to shake!)

Jake: What the--!? Why is everything shaking!?

Rain: You probably just released whatever monster had been sealed away by the crystal.

Jake: What? What monster? No one told me anything about a monster!

Lasswell: This shaking, though... It is far worse than the last time. What is going on?

Nichol: It would seem we unleashed something truly terrible this time.

Fina: This presence... I... know this presence... it's... The Dragon King... Bahamut.

(The scene shows the volcano. Bahamut emerges from it and flies away.)

Fina: This feeling... It has awoken now that the crystal's seal has been shattered. Bahamut...

Lid: Hey... Who or what is Bahamut?

Fina: The memories that slept within me tell me... The Dragon King. Ruler of the Heavens. The Fortress of the Skies. Bahamut is known by many names, but if you had to pick the simplest way to describe him, it would be.. the strongest of all espers.

Lid: What!? And we just set it free!?

Lasswell: Jake. Do you even understand what you've done?

Jake(...): My dear Fina... Tell me. Will this Bahamut pose an immediate threat to humankind?

Fina: Immediate? I can't really say....

Jake: Then I stand by my actions. Because the empire IS an immediate threat, and must be stopped. This esper, we can worry about later.

Lid: Y-you pigheaded, irresponsible...! How can you just say that!?

(A Rebel Soldier enters.)

Rebel Soldier: Looks like you finally did it! Good job, Jake! Here's our chance to strike at the empire! There's a real path to victory now!

Jake: Yes. That's right.

Rebel Soldier: But first we';ve gotta get out of here! This place will be swarming with imperial soldiers in no time!

(The soldier leaves.)

Jake: You all should come with us. I'll take you to our base on the front line.

Lid: You've got to be kidding me. Why the heck should we go to some rebel base?

Jake: Why? Frankly, because it would be pretty bad for us if you got caught by the empire. Besides, you're practically rebels yourselves now, aren't you? Look what you've just done.

Nichol: Unfortunately, he is right. From the empire's perspective, we are no different from them. It wouldn't be a bad idea to hide out for a time.

Lid: Ugh.... Seriously? Fine. If you say we have to.

Rain: If we're decided, then let's go. Sticking around here too long really will get us caught.

Jake: All right. Then follow us, and don't fall behind.

Next entry...

Previously...

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - SHINING PURPLE LIGHTNING - MAGITEK WEAPONS FACTORY OPENING

Jake: This is the placed. Ladies and gentlemen, the weapons factory.

Lid: Looks like the guards have already been taken care of, huh?

(Indeed, the guards lay unconscious on the floor.)

Nichol: Veritas must have already come through here. We should hurry.

Rain: So, Jake. How exactly do you plan to destroy this place?

Jake: There's no need to bring down the building or anything. We only have to destroy the cable they use to extract energy from the crystal. If we can do that, this whole place will shut down.

Rain: Thus putting a stop to their plans to wage war on Grandshelt.

(A robot enters from the west!)

ALLIES OF INTRUDER DETECTED! EXTERMINATE AT ONCE!

Lid: Hey! We ain't no allies of no Veritas, see? Get your facts straight!

Nichol: There's no point in trying to correct them. Focus on defeating them instead!

----------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - SHINING PURPLE LIGHTNING - MAGITEK WEAPON FACTORY 1

Rain: All right, let's go!

(The party starts to head on. Lasswell gets a ! over his head, and steps in the path of the robot, blocking a laser bolt that would have hit Rain.)

Lasswell: Rain!

(Lasswell falls to his knees, his face flushed.)

Lasswell: Rain? Are you all right?

Rain: That's what I was going to ask! You're not hurt or anything?

Lasswell: (...)

(He stands.)

Lasswell: I'm fine... It hardly even grazed me. What happened to the monster?

Rain: It stopped. It seems like that was the last line of defense.

Lasswell: Well, let us hope so. Come, let's move on.

Rain: Y-yeah...

(Lasswell begins to walk on, but he's walking slow.)

Lasswell(...): (Damn it...) (It hit me in the gut...) (I may have fooled Rain, but... the bleeding won't stop. This wound... might really be the end of me....)

--------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - SHINING PURPLE LIGHTNING - MAGITEK WEAPON FACTORY 2

Rain: Lasswell, I'm sorry about before. I was careless...

Lasswell: Don't worry about it.

Rain: Are you sure? Didn't you get injured?

Lasswell: We've no time for you to worry about me... Rain, ready your sword.

(Wave 1 of battle commences, and leads to wave 2.)

Lasswell: Nngh. This isn't the time to be stopping for a snack..

Lid: Lasswell, you're sweating so badly. Are you alright?

Fina: Why don't we rest a little?

Lasswell: It's okay, I'm fine. I can't afford to rest at a time like this.

(Wave 2 commences. There is no further dialogue.)

-------------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - SHINING PURPLE LIGHTNING - MAGITEK WEAPON FACTORY ENDING

Rain: We destroyed the cable that was feeding energy to the factory. Now Grandshelt should be safe.

Lid: Yeah. Now we just gotta find Veritas.

Fina: Lasswell? What's wrong?

(Lasswell bows his head.)

Lasswell: I'm just... a little tired.... You go on ahead. I will catch up to you presently.

Fina: O-okay... If you insist...

(The others walk on. Lasswell falls to his knees again, his face flushed.)

Lasswell: ugh... Everything... is spinning... Have I lost that much blood? I guess... this is it... for me... But I suppose I fulfilled my goal.. Giving my life to keep Rain safe... My only regret... is that...

(He collapses. Purple Lightning begins to glow.)

Lasswell: Purple Lightning? Are you telling me that I should not die yet?

(He gets up on his knees.)

Lasswell: You're right.... There's still something I have to tell Rain...

(He stands.)

Lasswell: Until I tell him... I can't die...

(He walks slowly onward.)

Next entry...

Previously...

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - WHAT WORDS CAN'T EXPLAIN - SURGING VOLCANO OPENING

(Lasswell stands alone. Fina approaches him.)

Fina(...): Lasswell... Are you still not ready to forgive Rain?

Lasswell: I can understand why Rain is angry. He has a complicated history with Sir Raegen. But I can't forgive him for simply demanding I throw away my sword.

Fina: Do you mind if I ask... why Sir Raegen left his sword to you?

(Lasswell turns his back on Fina.)

Lasswell: ....I'm sorry. That's not something I wish to share.

Fina: I see...

(Lasswell turns to face Fina again.)

Lasswell(...): But.. there is something else I'd like to talk to you about, Fina. It's about what you asked me before--about my dreams.

Fina: Of course! I'd love to hear about your dreams!

Lasswell: My dream... is to be an adventurer.

Fina: An adventurer?

Lasswell: Once I've made Rain into a worthy knight, and repaid the debt I owe Sir Raegen, I want to set out an a solitary journey. I want to travel the world and see all it has to offer. Just as Sir Raegen did.

Fina: Is that right... That's a wonderful dream. It really is.

Lasswell: Do you think so?

Fina(🎵): I don't suppose Rain or I could tag along on your solitary journey, huh?

(Lasswell sweats.)

Lasswell: Of..of course not! Apart from being out of the question, it is also impossible by definition. You see--

Fina: Yes, I understand! But I still want to go. And I bet Rain would be happy to quit being a knight so he could come along, too. And then we could travel together, just the three of us, like we used to...

Lasswell: We got along all right back then, didn't we. But as I said, I wish to take a solitary journey... of the kind with only one person.

Fina: But why? Why do you want to go alone?

Lasswell: Because I want to stay with Rain forever.

(He turns away again.)

Lasswell: And because... he doesn't understand that...

(Lasswell walks away.)

Fina: He doesn't know how you feel? I think there is a lot that the two of you still need to talk about.

---------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - WHAT WORDS CAN'T EXPLAIN - SURGING VOLCANO 1

Rain: This volcano sure is active. It's hellishly hot around here.

Jake: The mountains around here have been spraying every since the empire built its energy plants.

Fina: It's almost like... the planet is angry, or something.

(Wave 1 of battle commences, and leads to wave 2.)

Nichol: Rain, Lasswell.... Listen up. If you keep up this bickering, it's only gonna push us all further apart.

Rain: What are you on about? We're not arguing over anything.

Lasswell: Right... As always, nothing changes.

Nichol: You two are just too stubborn, aren't you?

(Wave 2 commences. There is no further dialogue afterward.)

---------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - WHAT WORDS CAN'T EXPLAIN - SURGING VOLCANO ENDING

(Lasswell stands alone. Fina is dragging Rain towards him.)

Rain: Fina! What's wrong? You're going to pull my arm off!

Fina: I think that the two of you need to have a serious talk. Nothing is going to get better if you just keep on ignoring each other. If you've got something on your mind, Rain, then you just go ahead and say it.

Rain: (...)

(He approaches Lasswell and bows his head.)

Rain: It was wrong of me to tell you to throw away your sword. I went too far. I'm sorry. But why didn't you tell me about it? Were you trying to protect me or something? I've been wondering about it for a long time.... Why do you always have to try to protect me like that? Do you think that's what I want; that I like it?

(Lasswell turns to the side, not facing Rain.)

Lasswell: You really don't know...how I feel, do you?

Rain: That's right! I don't. So why don't you tell me? Tell me what you're thinking. Tell me what you're worried about. Tell me what makes you angry. Just tell me something, Lasswell. If you did, we might end up understanding each other a little better.

Lasswell(...): And what of the things that cannot be explained in words? The things that you will not understand even if I tell you?

(Lasswell walks off.)

Rain: Lasswell...

Fina(...): Things that can't be explained in words? Maybe I shouldn't have tried to force this...

Lid: Nah, don't think of it like that, Fina. If it weren't for you, the two of them would never change.

Nichol: Let's give them a bit of time. I think they'll find a way to get past this.

Next entry...

Previously...

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - PURPLE LIGHTNING AND THE FLAMELORD - VOLCANIC GROUNDS OPENING

Rain: Ugh.... This heat! It feels as though we must be close to the Fire Shrine....

Jake: We are. Which means we're nearly to the weapons factory.

Lid: But.... Nichol, are you gonna be okay in this heat? You're a Warden of the Waters, right? Won't you, like, dry out or something?

Nichol: Do you imagine that I am a sahagin in human disguise, Lid?

Rain: I think even a desert sahagin would dry out in heat like this. I swear, if you cracked me open, I'd fry on the ground.

???: Shall I take that as an invitation? Listen to you, mewling like a motherless kitten! Things are only going to get hotter from here on in.

(The party gets ! over their heads. A Veritas appears.)

Rain: Veritas!

???: That's right. I'm one of the Sworn Six of Paladia. The Veritas of the Flame.

Rain: So you're also making for the Fire Shrine, is that it?

(Rain draws his sword.)

Rain: How convenient. How about we just finish you off here and now, then?

Veritas of the Flame: Heh heh... I can never bring myself to truly hate an enemy with a bit of fire in him...

(Veritas of the Flame summons a ball of fire, which knocks Rain and Lasswell to their knees!)

Rain: Guh...

Veritas of the Flame: Oh, come on! You guys can't really be done, can you? I mean, I knew you were weak, but THIS weak? Seriously? This is sad.

Lasswell: Damn it... We're not finished yet! I cannot fall here and leave Rain on his own...!

(Lasswell stands and draws his weapon. Veritas of the Flame gets a ! over his head.)

Veritas of the Flame: Hey... That sword you've got there, boy. Isn't that Purple Lightning?

Lasswell: How... do you know the name of my blade?

Veritas of the Flame: How could I not? I'm the one who made Purple Lightning.

Lasswell: You say that you... made this sword?

Veritas of the Flame: Hah.. So that guy entrusted you with his sword? Too bad then, since it seems like you still haven't mastered it. If you could draw forth the full power of that sword, you wouldn't be losing to me here like this. Man, that sword's former owner would be super bummed to see you waving it around like a wet noodle, with your pissy baby technique.

Lasswell: What did you say!?

Veritas of the Flame: Oh well. I guess I'm outta here. I'm not interested in weaklings like you guys. Flame out.

(He walks away.)

Lasswell: Don't you dare! Stop! Wait! If you're going to go that far to insult us, have the decency to finish the battle!

Rain: Lasswell! Calm down! If we try to fight like this, they'll be nothing left of us but skeletons and ash.

Nichol: Rain is right. We need to recover from the damage he's dealt us. Then we can pursue him.

Lasswell: Of course. Yes. Fine.

(Lasswell turns and walks away.)

Rain(...): (I've never seen Lasswell get that worked up before.) (I know he's attached to Purple Lightning, but I didn't realize just how much it means to him....)

-------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - PURPLE LIGHTNING AND THE FLAMELORD - VOLCANIC GROUNDS 1

Jake: That Veritas guy just now... who was that? They're headed for the Fire Shrine too, yeah?

Lid: That's right. We're both aiming for the same place. Our objectives couldn't be any further apart, though.

Jake: I see. I definitely want to find out what this Veritas is up to.

(Round 1 of battle commences, and leads to round 2.)

Lasswell: Darnit! Where is that Veritas of the Flame!

Lid: I've never seen you this worked up before, Lasswell.

Lasswell: ...I'm not worked up.. I'm calm and collected.

Jake: Yeah right. Your face is red with anger. We can all see it.

Rain: (Lasswell... Does he really care that much about his sword...?)

(Round 2 of battle commences. There is no further dialogue.)

----------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - PURPLE LIGHTNING AND THE FLAMELORD - VOLCANIC GROUNDS ENDING

Nichol: The Veritas of the Flame must still be ahead of us,.

Jake: Yeah. Looks that way.

Rain: Hey, Lasswell. I know you've always loved that sword, but... Who did you get it from?

Lasswell(...): This sword... Purple Lightning belonged to Sir Raegen.

Rain: My old man?

Jake: Hm? Wait a second...But wouldn't that mean...?

Lid: Rain, your father's sword... was made by the Veritas of the Flame? They knew each other?

Lasswell: I hardly think that's the case. Even if it is true that the Veritas of the Flame forged this sword.... It's most likely that Purple Lightning passed through many hands before it came to be in Sir Raegen's possession.

Rain: I don't care about any of that. I just want to know why you didn't tell me it was his sword. Why keep it a secret?

Lasswell(...): I'm sorry. I regret that it has upset you.

Rain: You've been carrying around that bastard's sword all these years...

Lasswell: Rain. You mustn't speak of him that way.

Rain: Why? He was a bastard. Throw that sword away. I don't want to see it.

Lasswell: Rain... There are some things I will not do, not even for you. Purple Lightning represents the ties between Sir Raegen and myself.....And not only that. It is also a symbol of my bond with you.

Rain: What? What are you talking about? It just sounds like an excuse.

Lasswell: Rain.. You truly know nothing.

Rain: You're the one who doesn't know, Lasswell! You act like you have no idea what he really was!

(Rain walks off. Lasswell gets (...) over his head and follows him.)

Jake: Dear me. I don't know what history you all share, but... it really is embarrassing to witness two grown men squabbling like little girls.

Lid: Nice, Jake. Tactless AND sexist. This is why we love having you around.

Nichol: The true issue here is that the party's offensive capability will be lowered if Rain and Lasswell are at odds with one another.

Lid: They normally make up in no time, but... I dunno. This fight seemed more serious than usual.

(Jake, Nichol, and Lid walk on, leaving Fina behind.)

Fina(...): (I've got to do something at a time like this...)

Next entry...

Previously...

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - SOBBING ON THE BATTLEFIELD - ELECTRIC TOWER OPENING

(Jake, Lid, and Nichol approach the electric tower.)

Jake: The electric tower is used for all the empire's communications. If we're going to infiltrate their weapons factory, we've got to start by destroying this thing.

Lid: How come? Seems like a lot of trouble to go to.

Jake: The factory has heavy security. If we get detected by their systems, it'll trigger an alarm and they'll be upon us before you can say, "They'll soon be upon us!"

Nichol: Ah. And you fear that would bring a premature end to your plans?

Jake: Well, if we're discovered, of course we can resort to brute force. However...Were that to happen, although we might succeed in our mission, there's no guarantee we'd all get out again alive.

Lid(🎵): Well what do you know. You're actually more reliable than you look, huh?

Jake: Quite so. I'm very much the dependable type. A warm-hearted family man, really. Someday I'll make some lucky woman a fine househusband. So what do you say, Lid? Want to be my sugar mama?

Lid: Tempting as the offer is, go to hell and die.

Nichol: Can we focus on the topic at hand? I thought we were here to destroy these communications systems in this electric tower.

----------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - SOBBING ON THE BATTLEFIELD - ELECTRIC TOWER 1

(Jake is at the controls of a computer. Two guards lay unconscious on the floor.)

Jake: All right. Now we should be able to get into the weapons factory without getting caught.

Nichol: Still... It is a surprise to learn that Zoldaad's army has grown so much.

Jake: Something changed in Zoldaad after the researchers learned how to use crystals as an energy source. But if Zoldaad starts a war with Grandshelt, the entire world will be thrown into an age of chaos. As the fires of war spread, it's always the women, the children, and the elderly who suffer most. I can't stand seeing the vulnerable suffer.

Lid: Jake... You know, maybe you ain't the absolute worst sleazebag in the history of the world.

Jake: I'm so glad you're being honest with your feelings at last, lovely Lid. Ah, but I knew it was only a matter of time before my charms won you over.

Lid: What? Won me over!? In your dreams, Grungelord McStubble!

Jake: There's no need to be flustered, my dear. Unless you mean to tell me that you already love another?

Lid: L-love!? Of course not! Though.. I guess there is... Someone I care about...

Lasswell: Hey. Why are you looking in Rain's direction?

Nichol: Can we put aside the adolescent drama for the moment? I believe we have a weapons factory to infiltrate.

Rain: That we do.. Let's not waste any more time. We don't know what the Veritas are up to right now, either.

(They leave. A soldier gets up from where he was feigning unconsciousness.)

Imperial Soldier: those rebel bastards... So they're the targets...

(He presses a button on the computer.)

---------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - SOBBING ON THE BATTLEFIELD - ELECTRIC TOWER 2

(The party leaves the electric tower. As they are leaving, a giant machine drops down behind them!)

Jake: Well, this is new. I had no idea they'd hidden away this kind of secret weapon... Probably because it's a secret.

Lid: Hmmm. This is one interesting piece of machinery. Anyone mind if I take it apart to see what makes it go?

Rain: Yes! I mind! We don't know what it does, and we don't all want to get blown up, please.

(Lid has approached the machine. It fires up and electrical currents run over its body.)

Rain: What did I just say, Lid!?

Lid: Hey, it wasn't me! I didn't do a thing!

Nichol: It appears to have some sort of auto-recovery capabilities built into it.

Lasswell: We don't have time to waste fighting a thing like this. Everyone, we're running!

(They start to run, but the machine gets ahead of them. After a battle with it, they run again, but the machine self-revives and stops them again.)

Jake: Damn! This thing is persistent!

Rain: We'll never be able to shake the blasted thing at this rate. Lid, any ideas on how we can send this thing to the scrap heap?

Lid: After fighting it a few times, I think I've figured out where its recovery system is located. We can put it out of action this time, for sure!

Rain: Right! I was getting tired of playing tag anyway! Let's end this!

(They battle it one more time.)

Rain: It's... not getting up again, right?

Lid: It shouldn't. We finally destroyed its recovery system.

(The party gets a ! over their heads as the thing gets up. It implodes!)

Rain: Phew.... That thing was pretty tough.

Jake: It certainly chewed up enough of our time. We need to hurry if we want to get where we're going.

Next entry...

Previously....

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - THE INCREASING CHANCE OF WAR - RAVEN'S HIDEAWAY

Jake: This is the Ravens' hideaway.

(Lasswell looks around.)

Lasswell: You have a rebel army base hidden beneath an orphanage?

Jake: And I'm revealing it to you because I'm ready to be straight with you. You are all very strong. You've proved that. So why not help us?

Lasswell: I thought this might be coming. I'm afraid we have our own battles to fight. Come on, Rain. The Fire Shrine is waiting.

(Lasswell turns and begins to leave.)

Jake: If it's the Fire Shrine you're looking for, you may be interested to know that it's now a weapons factory for Zoldaad's imperial army. They're using energy from the Fire Crystal to build their weapons.

Rain: They what?

Jake: Which brings me to another important point. Zoldaad plans to use the magitek weapons they make in that factory to wave war on Grandshelt. That is where you're from, right?

(Rain and Lasswell get a ! at this.)

Rain: War with Grandshelt!?

Jake: The intel that our rebel troops intercepted is quite clear on that. Grandshelt is rich in natural resources; Zoldaad wishes to have them.

Rain: Grandshelt Castle is still recovering from the attack from the Veritas of the Dark. It would be in real trouble if someone attacked it again now.

Lasswell: That is true...

Jake: So, what do you say? Want to go blow up a weapons factory with me?

Lid: What do you guys think? Should we really believe anything this weirdo says?

Lasswell: He speaks of a threat to Grandshelt. We have little choice but to take it seriously.

Jake: All right. That's settled, then. Whenever you're ready, we'll set out for the electric tower.

Lasswell: The electric tower?

Jake: There's a lot of work we have to do first, if we want to break into the weapons factory.

Next entry...

Previously...

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - LEADER OF THE REBELS - ABANDONED ORPHANAGE OPENING

Rain: Is this...

Nichol: It appears to have been an orphanage. Once, anyway. But what has happened to it? What is going on in this country?

(They head in.)

Lid: Hey, I'm pooped. Let's rest awhile, huh? Even if we're being followed, we've gotta be way ahead of them now.

Jake: Quite right, dear Lid. You deserve a break. You should take your pleasure wherever you can find it. Who knows when the chance might come again?

(Lid gets a ! over her head. Jake emerges frojm the depths of the orphanage.)

Jake: I had a hunch I could depend on you lot, and I was right of course. I hope those imperial swine didn't give you too much trouble.

Lid: Jake!

Jake: Ah! You remembered my name. How sweet you are... my lovely lily Lid. I may yet have the chance to pluck this gentle flower.

Lid(irritated): Call me that again and you'll have the chance to get a wrench in the jaw, see!? And if you want something to pluck, you can pluck yourself!

Jake: Ah ha ha! Marvelous. A tiger lily, then. I do love a girl with spirit.

Nichol: So you were following us?

Jake: Of course not. I was waiting for you here. I wished to apologize to you all.

Lasswell: We do not need your apologies. We only need you to leave us alone.

Jake: Now, don't be like that. Are you sure you wouldn't like me to help fight off those imperial soldiers coming up behind you?

(The party turns around.)

Lid: Urk. He ain't kidding.

Nichol: First, let us deal with our pursuers. Then we will deal with this interloper.

---------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - LEADER OF THE REBELS - ABANDONED ORPHANAGE 1

Fina: Don't you think if everything was properly explained even the rebel army could be come to understand?

Lid: Surely something could work, they're knights of Grandshelt, after all.

Nichol: There's nothing good that can be said about the relationship between Grandshelt and Zoldaad.

Lasswell: Such a conversation could get quickly out of hand.

(Wave 1 of battle commences, and leads to wave 2.)

Jake: Were you all knights of Grandshelt? What are you doing here, again?

Rain: Well... it's a long story, but...

Jake: I see. Anyway, I don't need to hear any further. We've all lived, and we all have our stories.

Rain: But I'm only 18 years old...

(Wave 2 commences. There is no dialogue afterward.)

----------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - LEADER OF THE REBELS - ABANDONED ORPHANAGE ENDING

Nichol: At least it seems that the imperial soldiers have retreated for now.

Jake: Right... Are we ready to get down to brass tracks? You probably think I'm a rebel soldier. Well, let me set your straight on that. I'm a rebel soldier. You've probably heard of my band. You do know the noble thief Raven, right? Well, that's us.

Rain: Raven? Yeah, I think we've heard the name a few times.

Jake: The truth is, Raven isn't just one person. There are plenty of folks working under the name Raven, all over the world. But here in this country, all of us who go by the name Raven... are part of the rebel army.

(Jake gives a thumbs-up sign.)

Jake: And little old ruggedly handsome me? I'm the leader of that army.

Fina: Is Zoldaad really such a terribly country that you need a rebellion?

Jake: It truly is, sweet Fina. And what an excellent question. Brains and beauty! The people of Zoldaad have been oppressed for too long. The military grows ever stronger, scoffing at the rule of law; even forcing men to enlist now. It's too much. I don't want to see my countrymen cry any more tears.

Lasswell: I sympathize with the plight of your people. but I'm afraid it has nothing to do with us.

Jake: Ooof. Lasswell, your heart is cold enough to... to display a fish on! But you needn't worry. As I said, I only want to make things up to you all. We can help you out with supplies, at least a little. And you've got to be thirsty, too. You'd be very welcome in our hideaway.

Rain(...): Why don't we take him up on his offer, Lasswell? Everyone is tired.

Lasswell: Very well. But we're not staying long.

Jake: Ha ha ha! I shall warn my comrades to put on mittens before shaking your hand. Come on, then. Follow me!

Next entry....

Previously...

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - LASSWELL'S DREAM - BARREN WASTELANDS OPENING

Rain: Everybody okay? No injuries?

Nichol: Leaping from a moving train! You truly do not know the meaning of circumspection, do you?

Rain: I don't, in fact, but I can guess from the context. So how else do you escape from a train? And didn''t I time it with a bend in the tracks so the train was braking?

Nichol: Yesl, I remember thinking, "What a brilliant strategy," as the ground came charging at my face with a mad bull. So, that man Jake is a rebel soldier, yes?

Lasswell: That seems almost certain.

Lid: Oooh, that jerk! He set us up to take the fall, so he could get away! Why, I ought....! If I ever see...! Oooooh!

Nichol: Anger, no matter how eloquently expressed, will not help us now. Noting has occurred that alters our plan. Let us resume our journey to Zoldaad.

(The party walks on, except for Rain.)

Rain: So we're stuck trudging on foot again, same as always. *sigh*... You got enough water, Lasswell?

---------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - LASSWELL'S DREAM - BARREN WASTELANDS ENDING

(Lasswell is practicing his swordwork.)

Lasswell: Hyah! Hryah!

Fina: Lasswell! You're training? You're always such a hard worker, aren't you?

Lasswell: Our battles against the Veritas will only become more difficult from here on out. If I am to keep Rain safe, I must become stronger.

Fina(...): You know, I've been wondering for a while now... Why do you feel like you have to protect Rain all the time?

Lasswell(...): It... it was something that happened when we were children...

(A flashback occurs: child Lasswell practicing his swordwork.)

Lasswell: I wanted more than anything to master Sir Raegen's signature move: Mirror of Equity. I practiced every minutes of the day and night. And my hard work paid off, as it always did eventually. At last, I managed to learn Mirror of Equity.

(Child Lasswell performs Mirror of Equity twice. Purple sparks fall from his weapon.)

Lasswell: I was so proud. All I could think about was showing Sir Raegen, as soon as I could.

(Child Lasswell runs to Sir Raegen, who is with child Rain.)

Lasswell: But then Rain... He learned Mirror of Equity in the blink of an eye - the move I had struggled so desperately to master. He did not even have to try.

(Child Rain performs Mirror of Equity.)

Lasswell: When I saw that... I realized the truth. I knew that Rain had a special gift; one that I would never have.

(Child Lasswell backs up.)

Lasswell: And I knew then, once and for all... that I was not Sir Raegen's son.

(Child Lasswell runs off. The scene returns to present day.)

Fina: I had no idea...

Lasswell: Yet Sir Raegen cared for me as if I were his own. He raised me as a true son. The only way I can repay him now is by making sure that Rain becomes a worthy knight. That is how I see it.

Fina: So that's how it is. That's why you're always looking after Rain... I understand how you feel, but... Lasswell, are you sure that's the right thing to do?

Lasswell: What do you mean?

Fina: It's important to pay back the people you're indebted to, of course... But... but don't you have your own dreams, too? You shouldn't only worry about Rain all the time.

Lasswell: I shouldn't worry about Rain?

(Fina sweats.)

Fina: Ah! I-I'm sorry. You didn't ask for my opinion. It's none of my business....

(Lasswell turns his back on her.)

Lasswell: No, no.. It's fine.

(He walks off a bit.)

Lasswell: ...My own dreams...

(He bows his head.)

Next entry...

Previously...

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - JAKE AND THE WILD ROSE - TIMBER TRACKS OPENING

Lid: Ah, now this is the business! This is how traveling is meant to be. Am I right or what?

Rain: It's certainly a step up from how we've been doing it till now. Staggering through the desert, running out of food and water... Right, Lasswell?

Lasswell(grumbling): That's all behind us now. Kindly don't remind me of it.

Nichol: I do wonder if our entry to Zoldaad will continue as smoothly as this ride...

Lasswell: Indeed. One certainly hears worrisome rumors about Zoldaad of late.

Fina(🎵): This is amazing! We're going so fast! Everything is just zooming by!

Lasswell: Fina... Do try to contain those high spirits, if you can. We should avoid drawing attention to ourselves.

Fina: Understood, boss! You can count on me!

(A man walks down the aisle. He stops and gets a ! over his head when he reaches the party.)

???: My, my, my, what have we here? I have stumbled into a chamber of treasures. Not one, but two lovely ladies.

(Lid and Fina turn from the window to look at him, ? over their heads.)

???: A mere playboy might satisfy himself with either one of them... But a master seducer like me? Bring me a spoon, for having both of them at once will be a sweet, sweet trifle. Just look at me.

(Nichol and Lasswell step closer to the man.)

Nichol: A feeble stratagem. Your chance of success is nil.

Lasswell: Who are you?

???: Sorry, but.. I'm not interested in men. Just look at me.

Fina: I'll ask, then! Tell us your name!

???(💗): I will, milady, that I may soon hear it whispered from those same sweet lips. I am Jake. The magnificent adventurer.

Lasswell: It seems to me that a person who was actually magnificent wouldn't need to describe himself thus.

Jake: That is quite true, as a rule. but every rule has an exception, and when it comes to being exceptional, well... Just look at me.

Lasswell(grumbling): I hope he doesn't lose too much sleep thinking up these lines.

Jake: So tell me, my two lumps of sugar, my double vision of loveliness, what brings you to Zoldaad?

Fina: We're on our way to the Fire Shrine!

Jake: Oh ho! the Fire Shrine. Then it seems you're not just here to see the sights.

Lasswell: What we are here to do, or not do, is no business of yours.

Jake: ...No.... You're quite right, of course. Pardon my curiosity. I shall save my deep probing... fo a more appropriate setting.

(Jake walks up to Fina and hands her a rose.)

Fina: Wow! What a beautiful flower!

Jake: I hope you will accept it. It is a wild rose. What could suit a beautiful woman more than a beautiful flower?

Fina(🎵): Thank you... Jake.

(The scene pans down the train to show some Zoldaad soldiers entering the far end of the cabin.)

Jake: Thank YOU, midlady. But lo, some unworthy boor stomps oafishly hither. I shall take this as my cue to exit. Do pardon me. Another time, ladies. I shall gratify you with the full force of my charm. Prepare your hearts.

(He leaves.)

Rain(...): Sheesh... What a display that was. Can you imagine?

(The scene pans back down to the soldiers at the other end.)

Imperial Soldier: Nobody move! We've had reports that members of the rebellion are aboard this train... No one is to leave until we've completed our inspection!

(A soldier sees Fina and the rose, and gets a ! over his head.)

Imperial Soldier: I-is that a wild rose!? You... you lot must be the rebels!

Rain: What? No, we're not! We don't know anything about any rebels!

Imperial Soldier: Liar! The proof is right there in your hands, rebel dogs!

(Lasswell and Nichol back up.)

Nichol: I suspect that we will not be able to reason ourselves out of trouble with this person. My advice for this situation would be simply to flee.

Rain: Yeah... Looks like you're right!

(The party runs off.)

-----------------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - JAKE AND THE WILD ROSE - TIMBER TRACKS ENDING

(Veritas of the dark is on the Invincible. He gets (...) over his head. Another Veritas approaches him.)

???: Hey, Darklord! What are you thinking about? Rain? Is it Rain? Are you thinking about Rain?

Veritas of the Dark: ....

???: Ga ha ha ha! Nothing clever to say? After so many years, you're as easy to read as a step-by-step recipe for a boiled egg, printed in large type, with illustrations.

(Veritas of the Dark turns to the other Veritas.)

Veritas of the Dark: Flamelord. Weren't you on your way to the Fire Shrine?

???: That's right. If I'm lucky, I'll be just in time to meet Rain there, too.

Veritas of the Dark: ....

???: And I won't hold back either. I'm gonna use everything I've got against him. You wouldn't have a problem with that, would you?

Veritas of the Dark: I would not. He stands in the way of what we have worked for so long to achieve. May he burn to ask in your hellfire.

???: Oh, he will. Nice to know you approve.

(He starts to walk off.)

???: But, you know, Darklord... Despite the big,s cary helmet, I know your face. I can imagine what it looks like right now.

(He walks off.)

Veritas of the Dark(...): (Rain cannot defeat Flamelord. Not as he is now. Flamelord is far more powerful.) (Rain... I wish I could have fought you once more...) (Before I return to the world I call home...)

Next entry...

Previously...

Chapter IV: Zoldaad Empire

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - THE HUNTED - ZOLDAAD EMPIRE OPENING 1

(The scene opens to child Lasswell practicing his swordwork.)

Lasswell: Hyah! Hyah!

Lasswell(...): Blast it! Take that!

(Raegen comes up behind Lasswell.)

Raegen: Why do you swing your sword about so?

Lasswell: Sir Raegen!?

Raegen: Your frustration drives you to tears, and you practice until your hands bleed. Tell me why you must push yourself so hard.

Lasswell: I... Sir, I...!

-----------------

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - THE HUNTED - ZOLDAAD EMPIRE OPENING 2

(It is present day. The party is on a train.)

Lasswell: Sir Raegen...

(Rain walks up to Lasswell.)

Rain: What is it, Lasswell? Some kind of dream?

Lasswell: Yes... A dream of the past.

Rain: Really? What was it about? Give me the dream-scoop.

Lasswell: No. I'll never tell you.

Rain: What! What sort of response is that!?

Lasswell(...): (If I were to tell Rain about what happened that time... what would he think?)

Next Entry....

Previously...

OLDERION FEDERATION - RUBY LIGHT - CARBUNCLE GROVE OPENING

(Rain, Lasswell, and Fina are walking in Carbuncle Grove. There is a flash of light.)

???: Who do you think you are? Do not wander brazenly into my forest without permission!

Rain: That voice... I feel like I've heard it somewhere before.

Lasswell: Ah... Yes, you're right. It would appear that this is that creature's natural domain.

Fina(🎵): Then we should get it to join our team!

Rain: Should we, thought? Didn't it seem kind of weak?

Lasswell: If the creature had its magic drained by that many monsters, and still survived? It may have hidden strengths.... Though perhaps that is wishful thinking. Let's stick with "weak" as a working theory.

(Another flash of light!)

???: Whaaat! You jerks! Look, if you do't have any business here, just get lost!

Rain: Hmm. When you say "get lost", do you mean literally get lost in the this forest, and never leave? Because if so, thanks for the hospitality!

Fina: Yay! Let's build tree houses and live here forever!

--------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - RUBY LIGHT - RUBY'S LIGHT 1

(The three approach the creature.)

Rain: I knew it! You were the one in the food stores!

???: Show some respect! I am the mighty esper Carbuncle! And I will not put up with such... im-per-tin-ence. Impertinence! Ha!

Fina(🎵): Hehe hee.. he's so cute!

Carbuncle: Do not call me cute! I will bounce back every spell you use on me in your own dumb face!

Lasswell(...): Ah-ha... So it is a defensive esper. In more ways than one. Still, it would be a fine ally to have.

Rain: Hey, Carbuncle. Want to come on a journey with us? You must be bored of the forest by now. That's why you ventured outside, isn't it?

Carbuncle: I know you guys may be strong and all, but... I''m an esper, you know? There's a principle at stake! I can give you my power, but first you gotta beat m--I mean, you must first defeat me in battle, mortals! Cravat you!

(Rain and Lasswell draw their weapons. Battle occurs! Afterward...)

Rain: Satisfied?

Carbuncle: I-indeed! I will grant you a treasure of my power, lowly humans.

Rain: You don't have to act like that, you know. Just be yourself.

Carbuncle: B-But... espers are... you know... We're not like humans. We're supposed to be, uh... well, y'know... above you all.

Rain: Then what was one of those mighty espers doing, straying from his hallowed domain? could it be that you... were curious about humans?

Carbuncle: I...I... I guess... I did want to know more about humans. That's why I left... But there are way more monsters around now than there used to be!

Lasswell: We journey in pursuit of those who made the scary monsters run wild. With the help of a fearsome espers like you, O Carbuncle of the Forest of Carbuncle, we could restore order to this world all the sooner.

Carbuncle: For real!?

Rain: For real. Totes, in fact. So come with us!

Carbuncle: All right! I'll do my best!

(Carbuncle turns to stone. The esper Carbuncle has joined the party!)

-------------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - RUBY'S LIGHT - RUBY'S LIGHT 2

(Rain approaches Carbuncle's statue.)

Rain: Hey, Carbuncle. You've really gotten stronger, haven't you?

(Carbuncle turns flesh once more!)

Carbuncle: Yeah. 'Cause you worked so hard to give me power, Rain. And now.. I think I could become even way more stronger!

Rain: You mean... evolving? You'll have to fight against us, you know.

Carbuncle: Don't worry, I'm sure you can beat me.. Which is why I'm not gonna hold anything back! Cravat you!

(Rain draws his weapon! Battle occurs. Afterward...)

Rain: How do you feel?

Carbuncle: That was awesome! I should be able to release way more power for you now! Though it would've been better for you if I'd been able to tap all this power right from the start, I bet...

Rain: Don't worry about it. You wouldn't even have known what to do with it, back then. Trying to grow up too fast isn't healthy for anyone. Not for human kids, at any rate.

Carbuncle: You think so? Yeah... I guess you're right! Let's keep growing up together, Rain!

(Carbuncle turns to stone again. The esper Carbuncle evolved!)

-----------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - RUBY'S LIGHT - RUBY'S LIGHT 3

(Rain approaches Carbuncle's statue.)

Rain: Hey... Carbuncle.. You're not looking too hot...

(Carbuncle turns to flesh once more!)

Carnbuncle: It's...my power.. It's too much... Rain... It hurts.. Can you.. do... something...?

Rain: It must be an awakening. If we battle, we might be able to release the limit on your power.

Carbuncle: Do it.. Please... Hurry and defeat me!

(Rain draws his weapon! Battle occurs. Afterward...)

Carbuncle: Thank you... I feel much better now.

Rain: That's good. It hurts to see a friend who's suffering.

Carbuncle: You see me as a friend? Thank you. All those people long ago.. Not once did any of them call me a friend.

Rain(...): People long ago? there were people who fought with espers in the past? Why did they--

Carbuncle: Hey, Rain! I think... yes! I can control my own power now! Now I should really be able to give you guys a boost in battle!

(Carbuncle turns to stone once more. The esper Carbuncle awakened!)

Rain: Do all espers... have hidden powers that even they're not aware of? I've never really thought about it before, but... how long have the espers been around? And why were they created?

Next entry...

Previously...

OLDERION FEDERATION - MONSTERS IN THE PANTRY - VILLAGE OF AMORE 3

(Rain, Lasswell, and Fina are standing in front of a cave in the village of Almore.)

Rain: The monsters... aren't interested in us?

Lasswell: They seem to be attracted to something up ahead.

Fina: Food?

Lasswell: If it were simply food, they would have devoured it all by now.

Rain: Then... what could it be?

(Battle begins against two iguions!)

???: Hmph... *sob* *sob* Skip it... Give me back my power...

Rain: Who was that?

Lasswell: It sounded like it came from behind these mosnters. Let's defeat them and check it out.

(Battle commences! Afterward...)

???: Who's there...? H-humans? Are the monsters all gone?

Fina: It's all right now...

???(!): D-do not touch me! You impertinate... impernitent... imperpinet... you rude lady!

(There is a flash as the creature disappears.)

Rain: Was that.. Do you think... Was that an esper?

Lasswell: I've never heard of an esper that would wander so far from its own domain. Outside of their protective barriers, espers are generally not able to draw on their full power... unless they have formed a pact with a human.

Rain(lightbulb): Maybe it had just gone for a stroll, when it got attacked by monsters.. and then it got stuck or something?

Fina: It did sound rather young. And what kid likes to stay cooped up at home all the time?

Lasswell: It is hard to believe an esper exists so lacking in dignity and wisdom... But, eh, it's a big old world.

Next entry...

Previously...

OLDERION FEDERATION - THE POWER OF VISIONS - AQUAPOLIS OLDERION 5

(The scene opens on confetti falling in the Aquapolis. Kids are running around in celebration. We see Arsha off to one side. She gets a ! over her head as the party approaches.)

Arsha: Nichol! Thank goodness you're all right. You're the toast of the town, Nichol. Everyone is calling you the hero who saved the aquapolis!

Nichol: Arsha. Please... listen...

Arsha: And where is Elle? Wasn't he with you?

Nichol(...): Elle fought with honor and courage. For Olderion and for you, Arsha.

Arsha(...): What... You... you can't mean that...

Nichol: I'm sorry, Arsha.... It was my fault. I was the one who should have...

(Arsha backs up.)

Arsha: It's a lie! Tell me that you're lying... Please!

(She runs away.)

Nichol: Arsha!

Rain: Follow her!

(The scene shows Arsha running away, but stops on two citizens in the middle of town.)

Olderion Citizen A: Our water is pure once again, and the floodwaters have receded! The city is saved!

Olderion Citizen B: Our prayers were heeded! Master Nichol has saved us!

(Rain and Nichol rush ahead, Lid and Lasswell following behind at a more leisurely pace.)

Lid: We managed to get rid of the water... but after all that..

Lasswell: Yes... I do not believe the ground here will be dry again for sometime.

---------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - THE POWER OF VISIONS - AQUAPOLIS OLDERION 6

(The party is walking near the docks of the Aquapolis.)

Nichol: Arsha....

Rain: Nichol, leave this one up to me.

(Rain approaches Arsha.)

Rain: Arsha?

Arsha: I... I'm sorry... I didn't mean to go to pieces like that... Elle was a soldier, so I always knew this day might come. But... but I still... wish I could see him... one last time...

Rain: Elle left this crystal behind... hoping that its power might help us. And I... have the ability to bring forth memories held within crystals. Take the crystal in your hands. You man only have a few moments, but...

(Rain backs up. Elle's vision appears.)

Arsha: Elle! Welcome home... Elle.

Nichol: I never imagined that someone would use the power of visions... to such an end.

Lasswell: Rain is not the type to feel bound by precedent.

Nichol: I must admit to feeling chastened. For calling the visions evil tricks. The power itself is not evil. Clearly, its virtue depends on the one who wields it.

Arsha: Elle... The baby is doing fine... growing day by day. I will ensure that the bloodline of the Wardens of thre Waters is carried on. I will keep our child safe. For the sake of Olderion. And for you, Elle.

Rain: Arsha, you... You're pregnant?

Arsha: I am. And if it is a girl, then she will be a fine priestess someday.

Rain: That sounds wonderful. Elle would love that.

(Rain walks back to the others.)

Fina: Hey, Rain... What are we going to do now?

Rain: We're going to stop them. We won't let them get what they want. There are still three crystals left. The Lightning Crystal in Falm. The Fire Crystal in the Zoldaad Empire. And the Ice Crystal in the Mage Nation. The question is which the Sworn Six will target next...

Nichol: The Zoldaad Empire seems most likely. I have some knowledge of the place. We should depart without delay.

Rain: "We" should? Nichol, do you mean that you...

Nichol: From what I have observed, this party seems to be in need of a good tactician. Rain is impulsive, and tends to get carried away. His personality is simply ill-suited to making important decisions.

Rain: Huh?

Nichol: And while Lasswell may appear at first to be calm and logical, he capitulates to Rain too easily, his objectivity like an origami sculpture in the hands of a bored toddler.

Lasswell: Th-that is... perhaps not entirely inaccurate...

Nichol: Lid is too emotional by far, and Fina's past is still shrouded in mystery.

Lid: Too emotional!? Maybe I just burn with a passion for justice, you ever think of that? Pretty admirable, I'd say. Jerk.

Fina: Shrouded in mystery? I am?

Nichol: That such a team intends to thwart the Sworn Six is frankly laughable.

Lasswell: Well, Nichol, while I'm certain we all appreciate your candor... are your keen insights not needed in Olderion?

Nichol: As long as the waters are kept pure by Luka's prayers, this city will have nothing to fear. And now is perhaps the time to worry about the needs of the world, not only Olderion. For the sake of the world, this Veritas group must be stopped.

Rain: You're not wrong about that. All right then. Let's do this together, Nichol!

Nichol: For Luka and Arsha... and for Elle's child, who will someday live in this world.... I will join this fight with you.

(Nichol has joined the party!)

(A "To be continued?" message appears. Cherry blossoms float across the screen. A scene is revealed: Veritas of the Dark walking amidst cherry blossom trees.)

Veritas of the Dark: This is...?

???: There are no paths left for you to take from here. If you wish to turn back, this is your last chance.

(A pink-haired girl enters the scene.)

Veritas of the Dark: You...

???: Have you finally realized the truth? There is no point in seeking revenge against Paladia, Raegen.

Veritas of the Dark: "Raegen"... You dare call me by that name?

???: What, Raegen? Why have you donned that armor once more? What happened to your resolve? Weren't you and Sophia going to live among the humans as one of them?

Veritas of the Dark: Sophia?

???(!): You... are not Raegen. Then who are you?

Veritas of the Dark: Why should you need to know that? You shameless slattern! I do not know where you have been hiding yourself away. But if you dare appear before me now, then you must be ready to die.

???: Fool... You think you can defeat me?

Veritas of the Dark: Do you think I can't? Not even with this?

(A red glow appears.)

???: That... is the sacred vessel of Paladia! But... but it lost its power long ago...

(Veritas of the Dark summons a ball of darkness!)

Veritas of the Dark: Do you understand now? Your schemes and struggles will all be in vain. Our revenge will not be thwarted! Now die!

(Cherry blossoms float across the screen as he hurls the ball of darkness, obscuring the view. When we can see the scene once more, the pink-haired girl is gone.)

Veritas of the Dark: She got away? It matters little. The next time we meet, I will end her.

Next entry...

Previously...

OLDERION FEDERATION - WHAT ONLY I CAN DO - WATER SHRINE OPENING

Lasswell: So this is the Water Shrine.

Fina: I've already removed the barrier around the shrine, using the power that Luka lent me.

Lid: All right! Then let's get in there!

Veritas of the Waters: At last... the seal is gone.

(The party gets ! over their heads.)

Lasswell: That voice! Veritas of the Waters! How are you even alive?

(The party looks around, but cannot spot Veritas of the Waters.)

Rain: Argh! Where is the swine? Show yourself, coward!

Lid: You're a pain in the neck, you know that? Just leave us alone already!

Veritas of the Waters: That I cannot do. Even if you do not understand why. There is no need for you to understand... Because, after all, you will die here.

(Monsters surround the party! Rain and Lasswell draw their weapons.)

Elle: (This is it... Now is my chance!)

(Elle runs into the shrine.)

Nichol: Elle!?

Lasswell: Nichol, don't look away! The enemy comes!

Elle: I... I have to do it.... Right now there's no one else who can. I have to do this.

--------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - WHAT ONLY I CAN DO - WATER SHRINE 1

Rain: Veritas of the Waters... so you're sending monsters in your place again, I see!

Lid: Huh? Where's Elle? Where could he be at a time like this?

Lasswell: I saw him enter the shrine ahead of us.

Nichol: What the--?!

(Wave 1 of battle commences. Afterward, the scene drops out of battle. Elle stands before the crystal, deep in the shrine.)

Elle: I found a way... to save them both... Rain and Olderion... If I just... use my power as a Warden oft he Waters... to magnify the crystal's power...

(He approaches the crystal and uses his power. There is a flash of light.)

Veritas of the Waters: Ahhh, interesting! But if you are not careful with such power, you are the one who will die.

(Elle looks around. Veritas of the Waters appears in a funnel of water behind him.)

Elle: Veritas!? But how?

Veritas of the Waters: Heh heh heh... When you struck me down on that ghost ship, I attached myself to your shadow. If I had tried it on Rain or Lasswell, they might have noticed me, but you... A simpleton like you was the perfect choice. And now you have served your life's purpose.

(Elle backs up and draws his weapon. Veritas of the Waters attacks, and Elle parries, but falls kneeling to the ground.)

Elle: B-but I....

Veritas of the Waters: Yes, it is a shame, isn't it? Yet your time in this world is over now. Just like... That crystal....

Elle: S... stop....

(Veritas of the Waters approaches the crystal, and slices it in two. The crystal shatters into pieces.)

Elle: This... can't... be...

-----------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - WHAT ONLY I CAN DO - WATER SHRINE 2

(Fina emerges from the shrine.)

Fina: I can feel it. The Water Crystal has shattered... The boy Elle.. He failed. I suppose that'll be the end of Rain as well. (...) There's no point staying here, then.

(She begins to leave.)

???: Wait! Don't go!

(She gets a ! over her head at this voice.)

Fina: Oh? This is surprising. I thought you were sound asleep. but here you are calling out to me.

(The other Fina appears as a vision.)

???: Please! Please save Rain!

Fina: You're not serious? Look, I'm sorry, but he's finished.

???: You're wrong! There's still time; I know it! So... please!

Fina: Ugh, how annoying. Just go back to sleep, and also bury yourself in a deep hole and never come out.

???: You care about Rain just as I do, don't you?

Fina: Just as "you" do? What a joke!

???: I know that you do! I'm you, after all. We must share the same feelings.

Fina: (...)

???: But right now, I can't do anything... So, please...

Fina: *sigh* It is unbelievable that you managed to develop feelings like that. Just... ughhhh. Fine then. Fine! I suppose, if there's a tiny chance he's alive... And since we do share a body and all.. I suppose I can do this much for you. Well then. Apparently I'm going back.

---------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - WHAT ONLY I CAN DO - WATER SHRINE 3

(Elle lies on the ground amidst the shattered crystal, Veritas of the Waters standing nearby.)

Veritas of the Waters: Ah, I simply never tire of my own beauty. Truly, it must be a sin to be this lovely! Yes... one of the wickeder sins, I should think.

Elle: (I can't even... more a single finger... Is this really the end for me?) (I acted on my own, without even thinking... and got the crystal destroyed...) (Brother... Luka... Was I ever... anything but trouble for you...)

Veritas of the Waters: Heh heh, excellent... Sounds like you're just about finished dying, hm? Marvelous. When Rain and his band of merry morons find your body like this, they'll come dashing right over, don't you think? Without stopping to wonder if some gorgeous adversary mightn't be waiting to ambush them.

Elle: (What have I done!? Everyone struggled so hard to get this far, and I've ruined everything...) (Damnit.. I don't want to die like this... Arsha, I... I...!)

(There is a glow around his body.)

Elle: (What is this warm feeling...? Is this... the amulet Arsha gave me?)

Veritas of the Waters: Ho ho ho ho ho! This time, I will finish off Rain and his meddling friends once and for all!

Elle: Keep... dreaming...

(Veritas of the Waters gets a ! over her head. Elle stands, a glow enveloping him.)

Elle: As if I'd let you... do that...!

(Elle takes a step, falls to his knees, gets up again and takes another step.)

Veritas of the Waters: B-but you... Whence such power? Whence!?

Elle: Thank you.. Arsha.. I won't give up until the end.

Veritas of the Waters: Well then. This is... touching. I'm touched. To think that you would drag around that mangled carcass, barely hanging together, just to try and stop little old me! I am deeply moved! Allow me to express the profound affection I feel!

-----------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - WHAT ONLY I CAN DO - WATER SHRINE 4

(Veritas of the Waters strikes Elle, who falls to his knees, but then stands again.)

Veritas of the Waters: How can this be!? How can you still be standing!

Elle: I... I'm going to do... what I can do... what only I can do...

Veritas of the Waters: What...ARE you? You're like... the living dead! The living cremated! How can you still be moving!?

(Elle's amulet glows.)

Elle: (Arsha's amulet... It must be protecting me...)

Veritas of the Waters: Aaargh! The only thing you can do now is die! Just give up and die already!

Elle: Veritas of the Waters.... I have no intentions of beating you.

Veritas of the Waters: If you've no intentions of defeating me, then why are you even fighting?! Either way, it's time for you to die!

(Veritas of the Waters uses a water attack on Elle. He falls.)

Veritas of the Waters: Hah... hah... I should not allow myself to become so discomposed. Not over some ordinary fool boy. It's unseemly.

(Nichol and Rain rush in.)

Nichol: Elle!

Rain: Elle!

(Veritas of the Waters gets a ! over her head.)

Veritas of the Waters: D-damn it all! My plan to ambush them unawares--!

(She turns back to Elle, who gets up on his knees.)

Veritas of the Waters: You brat! You imp! This whole time, your plan was nothing more than to buy time until your playmates arrived!?

Elle: Brother... Rain... it's up... to you now...

(Elle falls.)

Nichol: Elle!

(The rest of the party has arrived, including Fina.)

Nichol: Veritas! You will not see another sunrise!

Rain: You'll pay for what you did to Elle!

Lasswell: We will defeat you here, without fail.

Lid: How could you...How could you!?

Fina: Why don't we settle things, once and for all? It's seven hundred years overdue, Warrior of Aldore!

(Battle begins! You defeat Veritas of the Waters.)

Veritas of the Waters: What is this.. this power... It can't be... How could I be defeated... Very well. I shall take my leave, for now...

------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - WHAT ONLY I CAN DO - WATER SHRINE ENDING

Nichol: Elle... Thank you. Veritas of the Waters was defeated thanks to you.

Elle: I didn't... do a thing.. But you... Nichol... Rain... you're all so... strong... but me... i failed... I wanted to save the city... and Rain... but...

Fina: You didn't fail. The crystal might be in pieces, but it's still brimming with your power. See? Even these broken shards are shining brilliantly.

Elle: They... they are...

Fina: And if that power isn't enough, I can amplify it with the power of the sacred vessel. So... you don't need to worry about a thing.

Elle: Yeah...? That's... wonderful... They'll all be... safe... Rain... Olderion...

(Rain rushes to Elle's side and kneels.)

Rain: Elle! You can't die on us! What'll happen to Arsha if you die?

Elle: Arsha... I'm... so sorry... Arsha... that it had.. to end... like this... but I did my best.. to be the man... you deserve...

Rain: You were the man she deserved, Elle. You two were great together.

Elle: Thank you.. Rain... Keep this world.. safe...

Nichol: You did well... Elle. I am proud to call you my brother.

Elle: Nichol.. That's all... I ever... Thank you.... I'm glad... I was born.. as... your broth... er...

Rain: Elle...? Come on, Elle... Elle! ELLE!

Nichol: Rain... let him rest in peace now.

(Fina has been standing among the crystal shards. She begins to glow.)

Rain: Elle! ELLE!

(The scene shifts to show the world map, water rising up from the Aquapolis.)

(The scene shifts to child Rain with his glowing arm. Fina appears in her crystal before him.)

Fina: Don't worry. Your arm will be fine. Just touch the crystal I hold.

Rain: Huh?

Fina: Trust me, Rain.

Rain(...): ...I will.

(He touches the crystal.)

Rain: Ah... the light... It's disappearing....

Fina: It hasn't actually disappeared. It's just stored away for now. It may be too much for you to handle right now, but... Just try not to fear the unknown. After all, that light is a part of you.

Rain: Who.. are you?

(The scene returns to present. Fina and Rain stand among the crystal shards, whose light has faded. So does the light in Rain's arm.)

Rain: The light... it's fading... That's right. I remember now. What happened with Fina that time.

Fina: Looks like the sacred vessel did the trick. So, I'd better say good-bye for now.

(Rain gets a ! over his head.)

Fina: It seems like the other me...is waiting for her turn to see you. Please be gentle, Rain, with the other Fina.

(There is a flash of light.)

Rain: Wait! Fina!

(Rain rushes forward, but Fina has turned back to her light self.)

Fina: ...Huh? Where am I? Rain, what happened?

(Fina looks around.)

Fina(...): Did I do something to make you all worry about me again?

Rain: Fina... You're back...

Fina: Yes... I'm back.

(The scene pans down to the others.)

Nichol: Elle... It is time we return home. Back to the city that you saved.

Next entry...

Previously...

OLDERION FEDERATION - RAIN'S PAST - VILLAGE OF AMORE 1

(The party enters the village of Amore, Nichol leading the way.)

Village Chief: Master Nichol. We have been expecting you. The aquapolis is in quite a state.

Nichol: Yes. That is why I intend to travel to the Water Shrine.

Village Chief: The Water Shrine, Master Nichol?

Fina: We're going to release the Water Crystal's power. It's the only way to save Olderion.

Rain: Ngh...

(He collapses on his knees.)

Fina(...): You still can't handle that light, can you? Why are you fighting it? It's a part of you.

Rain: I don't know what you mean. I'm not fighting anything. I mean... I don't think I am.

Fina: Look, I don't know what's going on inside your head. But I need to be straight with you about something. Rain. If you don't get this under control, it will kill you.

(The party gets alarmed at this, ! over their heads.)

Fina: Haven't you already felt it? The way the pain in your arm seems it's spreading throughout your whole body?

Rain: It's.... Killing me?

Fina: If I used the power of the crystal... I could save you. But... if I do that, we won't be able to save Olderion. The power held within the crystal has its limits. That's just the way it is. So what do you want to do?

Rain: What do I... Are you serious? We've got to use the crystal's power to save Olderion.

(Nichol gets a ! at this.)

Fina: ...Even if you're the one destined to save the world?

Rain: Ha ha ha! Come on, that's codswallop. Stop walloping all those cods, Fina. It's inhumane.

Fina: ...I do not lie.

Rain: Well... say it were true, then. It would be all the more reason to choose Olderion.

(Rain stands.)

Rain: If I'm supposed to save the whole world, I'd better at least be able to save myself, wouldn't you say?

Fina: Hmmm.... Fine.

(She walks off.)

Village Chief: It seems things are even more complicated than I'd thought. Well, at the very least, please get a good rest here tonight and restore your strength. It seems you have much ahead of you.

---------------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - RAIN'S PAST - VILLAGE OF AMORE 2

(Rain is in bed, Lasswell watching over him. Lid enters the room.)

Lid: Sorry for the hold up! I managed to piece something together using spare parts and ordinary household items. One partable fan, sir.

Lasswell: Thank you for this... Lid.

Lid: How's Rain doing? He's sweating buckets...

Lasswell: yes, but he's finally getting some sleep, at least.

Lid: hey, Lasswell... What's happen ing to him? Does creepy-Fina really know something?

Lasswell(...): Let me tell you about something that happened to Rain when we were children.

(The scene shifts to show child Rain, his arm glowing.)

Lasswell: He touched a powerful crystal, and a strange light too root in his arm, just as it has done now. Like an infection.

Lid: Just because he touched it? I've never heard of anything like that happening...

Lasswell: His arm pained him terribly, and nothing would relieve it. And the looks from people around town... It was horrible. Our misfortune was only just beginning, though. Soon after that, Rain's father, Sir Raegen, went missing...

Lid: So... so how did his arm get better that time, then?:

Lasswell: I wish I had even a flicker of an idea. That time, it simply got better on its own, somehow.

Lid(...): I don't wanna be the one to have to say this, Lasswell, but... If we don't do something, Rain really might die. At least according to Fina.

Lasswell: I... I don't know what will happen to him. How pathetic. I say that I will protect Rain, but now that he's in real danger, there is nothing I can do. (Sir Raegen... if only you were here....)

(The scene shifts to Elle walking alone in the hallway.)

Elle: (Do we save Rain? Or protect Olderion? Do we really have to choose just one?) (No... My brother will think of something. Nichol always does.)

(Elle gets a ! over his head. He's stopped outside a room with Nichol and Fina in it.)

Nichol: What are you doing here at this hour? I do not recall inviting you in.

Fina: You're not sure what to do, are you? With the crystal.

Nichol(...): All lives have equal value. Therefore we must decide a course of action based on minimizing the number of deaths. That is the creed of the tactician.

Fina: So a hundred lives are worth more than a single life... is that it?

Nichol: For years, I have put my life on the line to keep Olderion safe. It is my home. A great number of people live in the city. Elle's fiancee, Arsha, is still there. I cannot simply abandon them all.... (...) And yet... I find myself wavering. If Rain is truly fated to save the world, then the lives of the multitude he could save must outweigh the lives of Olderion's people.

Fina: Well put, tactician. Without Rain, we can't beat the Veritas.

Nichol: Fina... There must be another way. That is why you came to me tonight, I am sure.

Fina: (...)

Nichol: I don't care hwat it takes! I am prepared to do anything, if there is a way to save them both.

Fina: ... Anything? Are you sure?

Nichol: Certain. Whatever is required, I will do it. I will lay down my life, if need be.

Fina: Well... if you're sure... There is a way. But it's something only a Warden of the Waters can do.

(The scene pans up to Elle in th hallway.)

Elle(...): So it is possible... for someone... like me...

Next entry...

Previously...

OLDERION FEDERATION - NICHOL AND ELLE - SUBTERRANEAN STREAM 1

Lasswell: How might you see your brother differently if you were standing in his shoes?

Nichol: Elle, too, is of the Wardens of the Water. He could surpass even Luka and myself if the powers he was born with were to awaken. It seems Elle simply hasn't awoken yet.

(Wave 1 of battle commences, and leads to wave 2.)

Nichol: Each man has his own part in life. If not a tactician or a water priestess, then there's surely some other fitting role. And once Elle finds it, he will surely grow into his own.

Lid: If you think so, why don't you tell him yourself?

Nichol: Well, you're right, but... I guess I feel it's better for him to realize it for himself.

(Wave 2 of battle commences, and leads to wave 3.)

Rain: ....Nngh!

Lasswell: Rain, don't push yourself too hard. Stand back if your arm is still hurting you.

Rain: What are you talking about? You don't think you could do this without me, do you?

Lasswell: ....I guess you're right. I won't stop you then. I will insead do all I can to back you up!

(Wave 3 commences, and leads to a boss battle against a Hartmannellidae. After the battle....)

Rain: N-nnngh....!

Lasswell: Rain! What's wrong?!

Rain: ...M-my arm...

Elle: Rain, leave it to me!

--------------------

OLDERION FEDERATRION - NICHOL AND ELLE - SUBTERRANEAN STEAM ENDING

(Rain is kneeling on the groun. Elle casts a spell on him.)

Elle: This should do the trick. It's a restorative medicine passed down among the Wardens of the Waters. I don't know if it'll heal that arm, but... it should at least take the edge off the pain.

Rain: Thanks, Elle. I think it's helping a bit.

Lid: Wow... So you Wardens of the Waters can do that kind of thing too, huh? I gotta admit, you guys are pretty amazeberries.

Nichol: The guys who are truly amazeberries are our women, who serve as Water Priestesses. We menfolk... We're rather useless by comparison.

Elle: You're a genius tactician, though, Nichol. The only useless one here is me.

Nichol: Elle... I do not want to hear such things from you.

Elle: But it's true. I'm not actually needed. I'm not special like you or Luka. I'm like... an item that's not selling, so the shopkeeper throws it in as a freebie. When we were kids, it used to really get to me. But I've accepted it, and honestly, it's fine. There's no reason to deny it. I'm me. I'll do everything I can with what I've got. I'll make Arsha proud to have me as her husband.

Nichol: Elle... You have grown, haven't you.

Elle: We're nearly to Amore. Rain, let's find a place to rest there a little while.

Next entry...

Previously....

OLDERION FEDERATION - IMPATIENCE AND ANXIETY - WIDOW'S CAPE OPENING

Mercedes: Well, I've bandaged it for now, at least. You don't want people to see that arm and start asking questions.

Rain: Thanks. You've been a big help.

Mercedes: Don't mention it. I'll help you out anytime you need it. I'm done with the, uh, piracy and all that.

Rain: You don't say. I'll bet you could do well for yourself, ferrying people around. Return trips, I mean; not marooning them.

(Rain descends the stairs of the ship. Elle is standing off to the side.)

Rain: Come on, Elle. We should be going.

Elle: Yeah...

(Elle walks over to where Rain is. Rain gets a quizzical look on his face, then walks over a bit and picks something up from the ground.)

Rain: What's that, an amulet?

Elle: Arsha gave it to me. Even though I told her I'd be fine. I suppose she just doesn't have much faith in me.

Rain: If you must brood, why not do it over a problem instead of a blessing? I can't imagine sulking about having a beautiful fiancee who worries about me.

(Rain begins to walk off. Elle follows him, and Rain stops and turns back to look at Elle as Elle speaks).

Elle: Rain... Do you think I've really been any help, in the end?

Rain: What's eating you, Elle? Asking something like that out of the blue...

Elle: Be honest. Please.

Rain(...): How things turn out in the end is not what matters. What matters is doing everything you can, for as long as you can. If you do that, then... well, yoiu did all you could.

Elle: Everything I can... for as long as I can...

Rain: Oh, and besides all that... You've got good instincts in battle, Elle. So long as you keep training, you'll become a great warrior someday. Take my word for it.

(Rain gives a thumbs-up.)

Rain: The word of a Grandshelt knight.

Elle: Ha ha ha! Thank you. Rain.

-----------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - IMPATIENCE AND ANXIETY - WIDOW'S CAPE 1

Elle: You're no match for my brother and Luka! You know this!

Elle: Even if that were to happen, there's no need to worry. Everyone has their part.

Elle: A part, eh...

(Wave 1 of battle commences, and leads to wave 2.)

Rain: Even for Lasswell and myself, there are things we are good at, and others we aren't.

Elle: Supplementing each other is what friends are for.

Rain: There are surely things that even Nichol and Luka are incapable of. You just need to do what you can, Elle.

(Wave 2 of battle commences, and leads to a boss battle against 5 grenades. After defeating them...)

Elle: ....Lasswell, how exactly do you see Rain?

Lasswell: Huh? How do I see him? What are you getting at?

Elle: It's just that, there's a lot to think about when in the presence of such an amazing person.

Lasswell: If that's how it's gonna be, the answer's simple. Rain truly is incredible. However, only I am capable of protecting him.

Elle: I see. So I guess that's all in your hands.

Next entry...

Previously...

OLDERION FEDERATION - BURN STRONG, RADIANT LIGHT - GHOST SHIP OPENING

(The party is laying on the deck of the ship. Rain gets up on his knees.)

Rain: Hey! Is everyone all right?

Lasswell: It looks like the storm has passed us by.

(Rain stands and looks around.)

Rain: What about Fina? Where'd she go?

(He looks around some more, gets ! over his head and runs up some stairs to the prow of the ship.)

Rain: There you are, Fina. You're not hurt, I see.

(He turns to look out to sea, gets another ! over his head. The scene pans up to show a ghost ship sailing on the horizon.)

Fina: Huh. Clever... So he's using a ghost ship to hide out in.

Rain: Who is whatting a what?

Fina: I felt the power of the Sacred Ring. The Veritas is aboard that ghost ship.

Rain: Wh... But... Wouldn't he just fall through...?

Fina: Stop babbling and start moving. We're taking over that ghost ship.

-------------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - BURN STRONG, RADIANT LIGHT - GHOST SHIP 1

(The scene immediately enters into battle with Veritas of the Waters.)

Veritas of the Waters: Wh-what's going on here?

Fina: What a novice, not being able to hide your own presence.

Nichol: Let's just assume that's all for the sake of appearance.

Veritas of the Waters: Nngh! I'm warning you! This won't go down like before!

(You defeat Veritas of the Waters! There is no further dialogue.)

----------------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - BURN STRONG, RADIANT LIGHT - GHOST SHIP ENDING

veritas of the Waters: No.. the sacred vessel....

(The vessel glows on the deck of the ship,in front of Rain.)

Rain: So this is it... the sacred vessel of Paladia...

(Fina gets a ! over her head as Rain approaches the vessel.)

Fina: Rain, stop! Don't tough the sacred vessel!

(Rain bends down and gets a ! over his head.)

Rain: Wh-what the-!?

Lasswell: Rain!?

Rain: Uwaaaggggggh!

(The scene flashes white. Rain is laying on the deck, the glow from the vessel missing.)

Fina: Rain! Let it go! Drop the sacred vessel!

Rain: Guh....

(He kneels up and drop the vessel, which glows again on the deck. But now Rain's arm glows in white light.)

Nichol: Rain... Your arm... It's flowing!

Veritas of the Waters(!): That light.... So this child... truly is... I must tell Darklord at once...

(Veritas of the Waters collapses.)

(Fina approaches Rain.)

Fina(...): Well, at least it's not foul. That power pouring out of you, I mean.

Rain: Power? This is... my power? But then... Why is it so...

Fina: Painful? Because you're not ready for it. You still can't control your own power. But you need to make it your own, Rain, and quickly.

Rain(!): Make it my....? Where... have I heard those words before...?

Fina: I wonder if you can even manage it. You being you, I mean.

Rain: I'll.... I'll try....

(he stands.)

Lasswell: Fina! What is happening to Rain? Explain this at once!

Fina: I'm not bound to explain anything to you, Lasswell. This is a special something between me and Rain, not you.

Lasswell: A special... What!?

Fina: Oh, Lasswell... Jealousy is unbecoming in a man.

(Lasswell backs up a few steps.)

Lasswell: What was that!? J-jealousy...! Why would I--

Lid: Would you two give it a rest? Jeez! Rain, are you okay? Do you need to rest a while?

Rain: I'm fine. We don't have time to stop now. We have to get to the Water Shrine.

Fina(...): Good, Rain. That's the spirit.

Next entry...

Previously...

OLDERION FEDERATION - TO THE NORTHERN SEAS - PIRATE SHIP OPENING

(Elle is standing at the railing of the ship. Nichol joins him.)

Nichol: Are you worried about Arsha?

Elle: Worried...? Of course I am. But... look at what Luka has given up to purify the waters. She's putting her life on the line. It's time I did my duty as a Warden of the Waters, too. I can't just stay in the city with Arsha and wait for you to come back.

Nichol: I suppose not...

(The scene pans down. Lid is walking on the deck with Fina. As Rain and Lasswell approach, Lid kneels down and gets a grumble symbol over her head.)

Rain: Are you all right? You couldn't possibly be sea sick... could you?

Mercedes: What's up?

Rain: Oh, good timing. Do you have anything for seasickness on this ship? We've only just set out, after all. A long voyage is going to be tough for her...

Mercedes: Oh. Well, you don't need to worry about that. It won't be a long voyage.

(Lid stands.)

Lid: What? For real?

Mercedes: Oh yeah. You guys are getting off real soon.

(The crew surrounds them. The party gets ! over their heads.)

Mercedes: Hand over everything you've got on you, and I'll maroon you instead of throwing you off the side. What can I tell you, I've got a big heart.

Lasswell: Alas. Now we have pirates to deal with.

(Rain and Lasswell draw their weapons.)

Mercedes: Ha ha ha! Seriously? You want to rumble with us? Wow, what bunch of morons! Get 'em, boys!

--------------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - TO THE NORTHERN SEAS - PIRATE SHIP 1

(A boss battle starts against Mercedes and two of the pirates.)

Mercedes: These men deemed rogues by society, they're very important to me. I have to do all I can to keep them fed and healthy.

Rain: I see. So that's why you became a pirate, then?

Mercedes: Come at me! I'll gladly be your opponent!

(Battle begins! You defeat them. There is no further dialogue.)

-------------------

OLDERION FEDERATION - TO THE NORTHERN SEAS - PIRATE SHIP ENDING

Mercedes: Rrrgh... Well, you beat us. So what are you waiting for! You have us at your mercy, hurry up and do it!

Rain: All right then. Take us to the north sea, like we agreed on.

Mercedes: ....You seriously want to go there? The north sea!?

Rain: That's right. There's someone there we've got to teach a lesson to.

Mercedes: Look... Take it from me, all right? Whatever you think needs doing out there, forget about it and turn back now.

(She turns her back on them.)

Mercedes: The north sea is cursed. Even pirates like us don't dare sail there.

Rain: Cursed?

Mercedes: That's what I said, cursed. Ghost ships appear in those waters. Everybody who sails these seas has heard the tales.

Lid: Gh-ghost ships? You're kidding... right? There can't be real ghost ships!

(the scene pans up to show mountains and the sea, then pans back down. The sea is choppy.)

Lid: Hey... Ain't the wind gotten rough all of a sudden?

Rain: Looks like a storm is brewing.

Lid: Don't say that! Aw jeez, just thinking about the waves... is gonna make me... Hurrrrrrrkh....

Next entry...

Previously...

OLDERION FEDERATION - FREE IS THE MOST EXPENSIVE - AQUAPOLIS OLDERION 4

(Lasswell, Rain, and Lid are walking in the Aquapolis. Lasswell's stops, looks around, and shakes his head.)

Lasswell: With the city in this state...it seems we won't be setting sail any time soon.

???: You all...You hoping to go to the north sea?

Rain: Huh? Well, yes, we are, as a matter of fact. How'd you know that, miss?

???: Heh heh... I guess today must just be your lucky day. My ship is about to set sail that way. Want to hitch a ride? I won't even ask you to pay.

Lid: Hey, wh... Am I the only one who thinks this is kinda suspicious?

Rain: Relax, Lid. You know the old saying: "You can always trust a free lunch." Miss! We'd love a ride !

Mercedes: The band's Mercedes. Pleasure's all mine. We'll wait for you at the north quay, so come find us.

(THE scene shifts to the north quay.)

Mercedes: Hop right on!

(Rain boards the ship. Mercedes brings the gangplank in and boards after Rain.)

Mercedes: We're off!

(As the ship sets sail, the scene pans down to show a pirate skull on the aft of the ship. An evil laugh sounds.)

Next entry....

Profile

Althea Valara

January 2024

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Syndicate

Page Summary

FFBE Script part 88: Awake
FFBE Script part 87: Shining Purple Lightning
FFBE Script part 86: What Words Can't Explain
FFBE Script part 85: Purple Lightning and the Flamelord
FFBE Script part 84: Sobbing on the Battlefield
FFBE Script part 83: The Increasing Chance of War
FFBE Script part 82: Leader of the Rebels
FFBE Script part 81: Lasswell's Dream
FFBE Script part 80: Jake and the Wild Rose
FFBE Script part 79: The Hunted
FFBE Script part 78: Ruby Light
FFBE Script part 77: Monsters in the Pantry
FFBE Script part 76: The Power of Visions
FFBE Script part 75: What Only I Can Do
FFBE Script part 74: Rain's Past
FFBE Script part 73: Nichol and Elle
FFBE Script part 72: Impatience and Anxiety
FFBE Script part 71: Burn Strong, Radiant Light
FFBE Script part 70: To the Northern Seas
FFBE Script part 69: Free is the Most Expensive

Style Credit

Base style: Dusty Foot by timeasmymeasure
Theme: Monochrome Purple by krja

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Page generated Aug. 29th, 2025 03:31 pm

Althea Valara

Entries tagged with ffbe script

FFBE Script part 88: Awake

FFBE Script part 87: Shining Purple Lightning

FFBE Script part 86: What Words Can't Explain

FFBE Script part 85: Purple Lightning and the Flamelord

FFBE Script part 84: Sobbing on the Battlefield

FFBE Script part 83: The Increasing Chance of War

FFBE Script part 82: Leader of the Rebels

FFBE Script part 81: Lasswell's Dream

FFBE Script part 80: Jake and the Wild Rose

FFBE Script part 79: The Hunted

FFBE Script part 78: Ruby Light

FFBE Script part 77: Monsters in the Pantry

FFBE Script part 76: The Power of Visions

FFBE Script part 75: What Only I Can Do

FFBE Script part 74: Rain's Past

FFBE Script part 73: Nichol and Elle

FFBE Script part 72: Impatience and Anxiety

FFBE Script part 71: Burn Strong, Radiant Light

FFBE Script part 70: To the Northern Seas

FFBE Script part 69: Free is the Most Expensive