Act 2: The Red Dragon Strike Force
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 1: The Stranger
???
I know this darkness.
???
The cruel void that follows disgrace,
despair, and pitiful defeat.
despair, and pitiful defeat.
???
This darkness has been my greatest
teacher.
teacher.
???
It urges me to embrace defeat, to use it as
the fuel I need to stand once more.
the fuel I need to stand once more.
???
It pushes me to steel myself, and resist.
???
But...
???
Where are my legs?
???
Where are my arms?
???
Where is my weapon?
???
Where are my enemies?
???
I...
???
I need...
Clock
Then you shall have.
Clock
You shall have a new body, new weapons,
and a new enemy.
and a new enemy.
Clock
Your "time..."
Clock
is renewed!
Southwest Rigland, Westland
Knight A
Phew... The Captain keeps a tough pace,
at least when we're answering aid calls.
at least when we're answering aid calls.
Knight A
You alright there, Theo?
Theo
Y-Yeah, I'm okay...
Theo
I'm more worried about how many of these
kinds of requests we've been getting.
kinds of requests we've been getting.
Theo
Bandit activity seems to be growing more
rampant every day.
rampant every day.
Theo
I thought with the Pandemonium gone,
people would embrace peacetime...
people would embrace peacetime...
Knight A
Ha ha... You're a sweet kid, Theo. But
most folk aren't that sweet.
most folk aren't that sweet.
Knight A
Just be glad we don't have to worry about
demons riling up the wild monsters anymore.
demons riling up the wild monsters anymore.
Knight B
You say that, but these bandits are pretty
tough. On top of trained monsters,
tough. On top of trained monsters,
Knight B
most of them are summoning warriors with
soul stones to help them terrorize folk.
soul stones to help them terrorize folk.
Theo
It's awful... I'm sure not all of those
warriors want to attack innocent people.
warriors want to attack innocent people.
Knight A
I'm sure most of them don't.
Knight A
But it's the heart of the summoner that
decides their alignment.
decides their alignment.
Knight B
So warriors summoned by the Pandemonium
Task Force make excellent allies!
Task Force make excellent allies!
Knight A
To be honest, I was disappointed when I
heard Finn was stepping down as Captain.
heard Finn was stepping down as Captain.
Knight A
But after working with our current Captain,
I can't imagine following anyone else!
I can't imagine following anyone else!
Theo
...
Rizette
You don't know...?
Callen
I've exhausted all my connections and
tried everything conceivable.
tried everything conceivable.
Callen
But I still have no explanation as to why
Finn won't wake up.
Finn won't wake up.
Ludmilla
The Great Sage said it is not an illness...
Ga'Luga
So it must have something to do with that
crest.
crest.
Elmina
The power Finn got when he fought
Arcane...
Arcane...
Rizette
The Golden Crest...
Astrid
That crest was a miracle created by Finn
and all the other Crimson Crestbearers.
and all the other Crimson Crestbearers.
Astrid
If Finn's condition is a side effect, we have
nowhere to turn for answers!
nowhere to turn for answers!
Mysha
We've asked everywhere. No one knows
anything but legends about the crests.
anything but legends about the crests.
Gilgan
Have there been any changes in Finn's
condition, Professor Callen?
condition, Professor Callen?
Callen
No. His body and soul are still in a state of
deep sleep. It is as though he is hibernating.
deep sleep. It is as though he is hibernating.
Callen
I have anchored his soul to the leylines of
Elvenlent, so he is in no danger for now.
Elvenlent, so he is in no danger for now.
Nagi
How long will he continue to slumber?
For months? Years?!
For months? Years?!
Theo
No! There must be something we can do!
Callen
Don't despair just yet, Theo. It has only
been one month.
been one month.
Callen
And we have only tried existing
approaches.
approaches.
Callen
Whether it takes us months, or years...
We must search for a new solution!
We must search for a new solution!
Theo
...
Rizette
What are you thinking about, Theo?
Theo
Wah! Don't sneak up on me like that...
Knight A
Captain Rizette! You're back!
Knight B
Did you find any traces of the bandits?
Rizette
Yes. I think there are several groups
operating around here.
operating around here.
Theo
Should we follow their tracks?
Rizette
No. We should check in with the village
that called us first.
that called us first.
Rizette
But we could be attacked on the road. We
need to stay vigilant.
need to stay vigilant.
Knight A
Yes ma'am!
Rizette
I'm sorry for the quick march. Can you all
keep going a while longer?
keep going a while longer?
Knight B
Of course!
Theo
We're ready to go, Captain!
Rizette
Good.
Rizette
Red Dragon Strike Force, move out!
Optional
Rizette
Looks like this campsite has been deserted.
Rizette
Is that a checkpoint up ahead?
Knight B
Not an official one. Bandits might be using it
to trick travelers out of their money.
to trick travelers out of their money.
Rizette
I see.
Rizette
Knights, prepare for a possible engagement!
Optional
Theo
This looks like some kind of hideout. Maybe
those bandits were using it?
those bandits were using it?
Knight A
Captain, look!
Rizette
Soul stones... The bandits must have been
using them to increase their forces.
using them to increase their forces.
Rizette
I'll be confiscating these.
Bandit
Ugh, knights... Oh well, this is the perfect
chance to test those soul stones we stole!
chance to test those soul stones we stole!
[Mission 2-1-1]
Knight B
All the bandits have been arrested!
Rizette
We're nearly at the village that requested
our help.
our help.
Rizette
We may encounter more hostile groups on
the way, so stay on your guard!
the way, so stay on your guard!
Optional
Takesh
Heh... Just as I was getting tired of all these
bland bandits, some new meat strolls in.
bland bandits, some new meat strolls in.
Takesh
Takesh. Perhaps you've heard of my
more delectably brutal escapades.
more delectably brutal escapades.
Takesh
If you are true warriors, then you know why
I've given you my name. How about it?
I've given you my name. How about it?
Takesh
Just what I wanted to hear. Show me the
divine flavor I've been searching for!
divine flavor I've been searching for!
[S-Mission 2-1-1]
Optional
Optional
Takesh
Urgh... It's been a while since anyone
has bested me in an honest fight!
has bested me in an honest fight!
Takesh
Explosive, yet smooth... You are a fine wine
indeed, my friends.
indeed, my friends.
Takesh
I see, you are the Red Dragon Knights! This
little taste was not enough to fathom you.
little taste was not enough to fathom you.
Takesh
Next time we meet, my power will be such
that I can properly savor our fight.
that I can properly savor our fight.
Takesh
I hope you will be even more delectable by
then. Till next we meet, fellow warriors!
then. Till next we meet, fellow warriors!
[Mission 2-1-2]
Optional
Rizette
Nice!
Rizette
Looks like there's some kind of commotion
in the village.
in the village.
Theo
It doesn't sound like they're being attacked,
though.
though.
Rizette
Let's go in and see if they need help.
Rizette
Two children are missing?
Theo
The villagers said they vanished from
their beds in the night.
their beds in the night.
Knight B
Do you think bandits are responsible...?
Rizette
That seems unlikely. They didn't take
anything of monetary value.
anything of monetary value.
Theo
Who would do something like this? And
why?
why?
Rizette
I'm not sure. Let's assist the villagers in
searching for the children.
searching for the children.
Knight A
Captain, there's more!
Knight A
Early this morning, a farmer saw some
people running from the village.
people running from the village.
Knight A
She said they were carrying two sacks!
Rizette
!
Knight B
Sacks... You think the children could have
been inside?!
been inside?!
Rizette
Which way did they go?
Knight A
Toward the ocean!
Rizette
It's still early. If we hurry, we may catch
them!
them!
Optional
Rizette
This cottage is empty, but it was
ransacked recently.
ransacked recently.
Knight A
It looks like a family of two or three lived
here, but there's no one around.
here, but there's no one around.
Knight B
There are signs of a struggle, but no
bodies.
bodies.
Theo
Do you think the people who lived here
were taken by someone too?
were taken by someone too?
Rizette
Let's keep looking for the children.
We should head toward the coast.
We should head toward the coast.
Theo
If we keep going that way, we should reach
the port town of Limnavale.
the port town of Limnavale.
[Mission 2-1-3]
Optional
Rizette
What's that up ahead?
Theo
It should be an old battleground.
Theo
I read about it in the Rigland Archives.
There was a battle here 200 years ago.
There was a battle here 200 years ago.
Theo
It was during a Pandemonium. Demons
attacked from the sea.
attacked from the sea.
Theo
We've received reports that some unsavory
folk have been using it as a base lately.
folk have been using it as a base lately.
Rizette
Maybe the missing children are there.
Theo
Do you think we should check it out, Ri—
I mean, Captain?
I mean, Captain?
Rizette
You can call me Riz, Theo.
Theo
But we're on a mission! Captain feels
more appropriate.
more appropriate.
Rizette
Theo...
Rizette
I'm sorry.
Theo
Huh?
Rizette
I know you wanted to help with the
recovery efforts in Rossé...
recovery efforts in Rossé...
Theo
Don't be sorry—I want to be here.
Theo
Did you know Finn donated all his wages to
the recovery efforts?
the recovery efforts?
Rizette
Yeah, Mysha told me. She said it was a lot.
Finn never said anything, though.
Finn never said anything, though.
Theo
I'm sure he wanted to go and help too, but
he knew he needed to support Astrid.
he knew he needed to support Astrid.
Rizette
When this mission is done, we should both
visit Rossé.
visit Rossé.
Theo
Agreed! Maybe there's still something we
can do to help.
can do to help.
Rizette
This is Limnavale?
Knight A
It's completely deserted. Where did
everyone go?
everyone go?
Rizette
(Something is watching me...)
Rizette
?!
???
...
Rizette
Who are you? Where are the villagers?!
???
...
Rizette
Look out, he has soul stones! Strike
Force, engage!
Force, engage!
[Mission 2-1-4]
Knight A
They just keep coming... Where did all
these warriors and monsters come from?!
these warriors and monsters come from?!
Theo
That man in the black robes! He's gone!
Knight B
Darn it... He must have escaped in all the
confusion!
confusion!
Rizette
Huff... Huff... Let's finish this!
Theo
...?!
Theo
Riz, behind you!!
Rizette
What...?
Large Monster
GROOOAAAARGH!!
Knight B
Captain!!
Rizette
?!
Rizette
(It's too close! I can't deflect it!)
Rizette
(Finn!!)
Large Monster
GROOOARGH?!
Stranger
You hit light for such a huge brute.
Rizette
Who...?!
Knight A
Who is that?!
Knight B
He parried a blow from that huge monster
like he was swatting a fly!!
like he was swatting a fly!!
Large Monster
GRR...GROOOOAARGH!!
Stranger
That wasn't enough to frighten you off?
Stranger
Fine... I could use a warm-up!
Stranger
Is this all they've got?
Stranger
I don't suppose I can expect much from
the Apostles either.
the Apostles either.
Knight B
He took out that enormous monster
alone?!
alone?!
Theo
Woah...
Rizette
...
Rizette
(That face... That voice... And that fighting
style. Is that...?)
style. Is that...?)
Norza
Come, little heroes! Let us shed blood
together!!
together!!
Stranger
...
Rizette
(No... It's not possible. But...)
Rizette
Who are you?
Stranger
...
Stranger
My name...
Stranger
...is Oz.
Clock
I have detected traces of the Void.
Clock
It appears to have begun a large-scale
operation to increase its forces.
operation to increase its forces.
Clock
The scanning ability you gave "him" seems
to be functioning correctly. However...
to be functioning correctly. However...
???
...
Clock
Yes. I believe this meeting was brought
about by his residual fate.
about by his residual fate.
???
...?
Clock
No, there are still no signs of a power that
could shatter the fetters of the Void.
could shatter the fetters of the Void.
???
...
Clock
Understood. He should unlock it in the
course of pursuing the Void's—
course of pursuing the Void's—
???
...
Clock
Yes. All of time is as you command...
Optional
Knight A
They've spotted us coming! Captain, the
bandits are headed right for us!
bandits are headed right for us!
Rizette
Prepare to engage! Send a detachment
around back to search for the children!
around back to search for the children!
Knight B
Yes ma'am!
[S-Mission 2-1-2]
Optional
Optional
Knight A
That's the last of them!
Theo
The children weren't there...
Rizette
No. But at least we eliminated a dangerous
group.
group.
Chapter 2: To Me'Dracona
Southern Reaches, Habsu Desert
Theo
Are the children who vanished in Rigland
and the people of Limnavale really here?
and the people of Limnavale really here?
Rizette
That's what he's claiming.
Oz
...
Rizette
After the battle, we searched Limnavale
and found nothing.
and found nothing.
Rizette
There was no clue among the forces we
defeated, either.
defeated, either.
Rizette
We were stumped.
Rizette
But his words opened a path for us.
Oz
Those small fry are just pawns for
rounding people up.
rounding people up.
Rizette
Rounding people up? For what?
Oz
...
Theo
If they're pawns, who is the chess master...?
Oz
...
Knight A
Answer us! Who are you?!
Oz
The captured civilians were likely carried
from here by boat to Habsu.
from here by boat to Habsu.
Knight B
You...!
Rizette
Wait.
Rizette
Oz, is your goal to rescue the people
who were taken?
who were taken?
Oz
...
Rizette
You're telling us about them because
you want to make a deal, aren't you?
you want to make a deal, aren't you?
Oz
You're sharp.
Oz
I'll help you, on one condition.
Rizette
Oz's condition was that we bring him to
Habsu as quickly as possible.
Habsu as quickly as possible.
Rizette
It takes more than one to sail the boat
that was in the port.
that was in the port.
Rizette
We decided to hold off on interrogating
him and accept his deal.
him and accept his deal.
Rizette
(The knights are still suspicious of him. So
am I.)
am I.)
Rizette
(But his information is the only lead we
have.)
have.)
Theo
Oz? Habsu is a big place. Do you have any
idea where they were taken?
idea where they were taken?
Oz
Over 50 people were taken from Rigland.
Oz
There's only one place in this area where
so many could be held.
so many could be held.
Theo
Oh! Me'Dracona?
Oz
Probably.
Rizette
Me'Dracona?
Theo
It's an old fortified city. People call it the
Desert Gate.
Desert Gate.
Knight A
I've heard it's ruled by a young chief.
Knight A
But could a group of ruffians really drag
prisoners into a place like that?
prisoners into a place like that?
Rizette
Let's go there. We may find some useful
information.
information.
Rizette
Oz, I want you to accompany us.
Oz
Food and water. That's my condition.
Rizette
We accept.
Knight A
(whisper) Captain, are you sure about this?
We have no idea who this man is.
We have no idea who this man is.
Rizette
(whisper) He has information that we need.
And he's a powerful ally in battle.
And he's a powerful ally in battle.
Knight B
(whisper) Still...
Rizette
(whisper) I'm not saying you should let your
guard down. We should keep an eye on him.
guard down. We should keep an eye on him.
Oz
What are you doing? Let's go.
Rizette
Right.
Rizette
We will make for the fortified city of
Me'Dracona.
Me'Dracona.
Rizette
Our goal is to search for and rescue the
missing people.
missing people.
Rizette
Red Dragon Strike Force, move out!
Knights
Yes ma'am!
Oz
...
Oz
(The Red Dragon Knights, Rigland's most
powerful force.)
powerful force.)
Oz
(For some reason...)
Oz
(I know their might.)
Oz
(That doesn't matter right now, though.)
Oz
(Nothing matters until I retrieve my life
from the clutches of those meddlers.)
from the clutches of those meddlers.)
Optional
Theo
There's nobody here...
Rizette
Are these all things they stole from people
they attacked?
they attacked?
Oz
They aren't doing anyone any good lying in
here.
here.
Theo
I suppose you're right...
Oz
Me'Dracona is on the other side of this
forest.
forest.
Rizette
Have you been there?
Oz
...
Rizette
(He won't answer any personal questions.)
Theo
It looks like there's a large village up ahead.
Oz
They should have a relationship with
Me'Dracona.
Me'Dracona.
Rizette
We might find some information there.
Theo
We can stock up on supplies, too. What
kind of food do you like, Oz?
kind of food do you like, Oz?
Oz
...
Rizette
If there's something you can't eat, you
should tell Theo.
should tell Theo.
Rizette
You won't even tell us that much?
Oz
That's not it.
Rizette
?
Oz
I just don't know.
Theo
He left... What does he mean?
Rizette
I'm not sure...
Rizette
(Maybe it's not that he won't answer, but
that he can't.)
that he can't.)
[S-Mission 2-2-1]
Optional
Bandit
Hey there, you lily-livered lubberworts!
Pay the toll or get ready to eat dirt!
Pay the toll or get ready to eat dirt!
[Mission 2-2-1]
Knight A
That's all of them!
Rizette
Highway robbers... But they didn't seem to
have anything to do with these abductions.
have anything to do with these abductions.
Oz
They came from over that way. They
probably have a hideout there.
probably have a hideout there.
Rizette
A hideout...
Optional
Rizette
This campsite is empty. We should take a
break here.
break here.
Theo
...
Oz
...What?
Theo
Um...
Theo
Y-You're really strong, Oz.
Oz
...
Theo
So um... I was wondering...
Oz
If you have nothing to say, leave me be.
Theo
W-Wait! Um...
Theo
Please... Please teach me how to fight!
Oz
...Why?
Theo
...!
Theo
So I can protect my sister... So I can
protect Captain Rizette!
protect Captain Rizette!
Theo
The Captain and I used to travel with a lot
of really strong people.
of really strong people.
Theo
So I always relied on them in battle.
Theo
But I can't do that anymore, I have to
become stronger!
become stronger!
Theo
So please... Teach me how to fight!
Oz
...!
Female Voice
Know your weaknesses.
Female Voice
Know your ignorance, and your fear.
Female Voice
When you know these things, you will—
Oz
...?
Oz
(Who was that...?)
Oz
(Was that...a memory?)
Theo
Oz...?
Oz
...Fine.
Oz
Try and hit me.
Oz
Use your full strength or we'll stop right
here. And I won't help you again.
here. And I won't help you again.
Theo
I have to hit you with my full strength?!
Oz
Come on!
[S-Mission 2-2-2]
Optional
Optional
Theo
Huff... Huff... Huff...
Oz
Hmph...
Oz
(More solid than I thought. His physical
techniques are clearly self-taught.)
techniques are clearly self-taught.)
Oz
(His magic is quite powerful, though.)
Oz
(He wasn't lying about having strong
people around him.)
people around him.)
Oz
(He has observed much. Seems to have
naturally good sense. He has promise.)
naturally good sense. He has promise.)
Theo
(Huh? Oz... He's smiling?)
Oz
Treat your injuries. When they've healed...
Oz
Come and see me again.
Theo
Th-Thank you!
Theo
(Oz really is amazing!)
Theo
(Don't worry, Finn! I'm going to get
stronger...)
stronger...)
Theo
(I'll protect Riz while you're gone!)
[Mission 2-2-2]
Optional
Luna
You guys're the Red Dragon Knights, right?!
I challenge you to a battle!
I challenge you to a battle!
Solas
Luna! Sorry about that...
Solas
We just started our adventure, so we're
looking for ways to get stronger, but—
looking for ways to get stronger, but—
Luna
Yeah! So we challenge you to a battle!
Luna
Yay!
Solas
H-Hey Luna, let's not rush into this... You
know I don't really like—
know I don't really like—
Luna
Alright, let's do this!
Solas
Why're you always so hungry for a fight?!
W-Wait, are we really doing this?! O-Okay!
W-Wait, are we really doing this?! O-Okay!
[S-Mission 2-2-3]
Optional
Optional
Luna
Nyaaaaaah?!
Solas
Waaaaaah?!
Luna
A-Are you okay, Solas?
Luna
No matter what you say you always get
fired up once the battle starts, don't you?
fired up once the battle starts, don't you?
Solas
These are the legendary Red Dragon
Knights, any adventurer would be excited!
Knights, any adventurer would be excited!
Luna
Yeah, I guess it makes sense we were no
match for them...this time!
match for them...this time!
Luna
We're just starting out. We have limitless
potential!
potential!
Luna
Thanks for the battle, Red Dragon Knights!
You'll be seeing us again real soon!
You'll be seeing us again real soon!
Rizette
The village... It's empty.
Theo
Just like Limnavale...
Oz
They're thorough.
Monsters
GROAARGH... GROOOAAARGH!!
Rizette
Hostile forces!
Oz
Brace yourselves!
[Mission 2-2-3]
Rizette
An empty village and an ambush, just like
before.
before.
Rizette
Were the villagers here abducted too?
Oz
Look.
Theo
These footprints... Sziviik?
Oz
There are civilians, as well as trained
soldiers.
soldiers.
Oz
There's not much sign of a struggle. They
were probably threatened and led away.
were probably threatened and led away.
Rizette
Led away... To Me'Dracona?
Theo
Why would Me'Dracona do that to villagers
they have a relationship with?
they have a relationship with?
Oz
Only one way to find out. Let's go.
Rizette
...
Rizette
(What is going on?)
Theo
Is this Me'Dracona?
Oz
There are no sounds coming from inside.
Rizette
Were the people here taken too?
Oz
No. They're still in there. And there's a
a lot of them.
a lot of them.
Theo
Someone or something doesn't want us
here!
here!
Oz
They're coming!
Szi Guards
Infidels...
Szi Guards
Let us guide you.
Szi Guards
In the name of the Gru Grim!
Rizette
The Gru...Grim?
Theo
Wait! We're looking for some missing
people. We're from the Red—
people. We're from the Red—
Oz
Open your eyes. These are the culprits.
Rizette
You're saying these guards... No, all of
Me'Dracona was in on this?!
Me'Dracona was in on this?!
Oz
Yes. But probably not of their own will.
Theo
What do you mean?
Oz
Just like those brutes from the port, their
souls have been caught by the Void.
souls have been caught by the Void.
Rizette
The void...? What are you talking about?!
Oz
Here they come!
[Mission 2-2-4]
Szi Guards
We must...guide you...
Szi Guards
We must teach you...the ways of the Gru
Grim!
Grim!
Theo
They're getting back up! Something isn't
right about these people...
right about these people...
Rizette
Are they being controlled by somebody?
Oz
Yes.
Oz
And once they've been turned, there's no
way back.
way back.
Theo
No...
Rizette
Is this some kind of spell? Surely there's
some way to break it...?
some way to break it...?
Oz
They are bound by fate itself. Magical
arts cannot touch that.
arts cannot touch that.
Rizette
Fate...?
Theo
How can we save them?
Oz
We cannot afford to hold back. There's
only one thing we can do.
only one thing we can do.
Oz
Cut them down!
Rizette
That can't be...
Theo
No! I don't want to hurt someone who's not
acting of their own will!
acting of their own will!
Rizette
...Let's look for other options while we
fight.
fight.
Rizette
Let's find a way to save them!
Theo
Yeah!
Oz
You don't believe me?
Rizette
That's not it. Even if you're right, we'll
never stop trying to save people.
never stop trying to save people.
Theo
That's how we've always fought!
Rizette
We're not going to stop now.
Oz
...!
Oz
(What are these siblings trying to
accomplish?)
accomplish?)
Oz
(They don't seem like fools hoping for a
miracle.)
miracle.)
Oz
(I see... They are...)
Oz
...Heh.
Oz
Ha ha... Ha ha ha ha ha ha!
Rizette
Oz...?
Theo
What's wrong, Oz?!
Oz
I see it now... You two are resisting fate!
Oz
I must resist too! That is why I am here!
Oz
No... That is why I have come back!
Rizette
Oz, what are you—?!
Oz
I don't need to cut them...
Oz
I can cut the chains of fate that bind them!
Szi Guards
Uoooaaaargh...? Uoooaaaargh?!
Rizette
—z. Oz?!
Rizette
Oz! Wake up!
Theo
Oz?!
Oz
Stop screaming in my ear...
Rizette
Thank goodness...
Oz
What happened...?
Theo
You attacked the guards with this bright,
sword-shaped light...then collapsed.
sword-shaped light...then collapsed.
Oz
What happened to the sziviik?
Rizette
Well...
Theo
After you hit them with that light, they all
collapsed.
collapsed.
Theo
But they're okay! And they're back to
normal, like nothing ever happened!
normal, like nothing ever happened!
Rizette
Oz... What in Erden did you just do?
Oz
I've got it.
Oz
It needs a lot of polishing...
Oz
But this power... Heh.
Oz
It's not...bad...
Theo
Oz?!
Oz
zzz...
Rizette
He's asleep...?
Theo
Looks like it. Riz...
Theo
It's not him, right?
Theo
They just look really similar... But they're
not the same person, right?
not the same person, right?
Rizette
I still can't say.
Rizette
But right now...
Rizette
We need him.
Chapter 3: Across the Desert
Oz
...
Oz
Where am I? What—
???
Oz.
Clock
What are you doing?
Oz
Oh, it's you.
Clock
You haven't been permitted to even test that
power yet, let alone use it in combat...
power yet, let alone use it in combat...
Oz
Something feels... I see. So I'm asleep,
am I?
am I?
Oz
And this is a dream.
Clock
Answer me, Oz!
Oz
Isn't it you and your master's goal to have
this power manifest, Rolotia?
this power manifest, Rolotia?
Oz
You should be pleased. Your pawn is
growing faster than you expected.
growing faster than you expected.
Rolotia
You are disrupting my timeline. This is a
violation of your contract.
violation of your contract.
Oz
I thought my time was in you and your
master's hands, Miss Avatar.
master's hands, Miss Avatar.
Oz
If it is disrupting something, isn't that
your fault?
your fault?
Rolotia
I won't overlook that remark. It amounts to
blasphemy against my master.
blasphemy against my master.
Oz
What are you going to do, kill me? Sounds
like fun. Show me the power of an Avatar!
like fun. Show me the power of an Avatar!
Rolotia
As you wish. Taste the power that can
awaken even the souls of the departed!
awaken even the souls of the departed!
Oz
?!
???
BRIIIIIIIIINNNNNNGGGGG!
Oz
Urgh?!
Oz
(What's going on?! Something is
screeching in my head... Is this—?!)
screeching in my head... Is this—?!)
Oz
An alarm clock?! Rolotia, you—!
???
BRIIIIIIiiiinngg...
Oz
It stopped... Honestly, are you a child?
Oz
?!
Ga'Luga
...
Oz
(Why is there a szi warrior at my
bedside?!)
bedside?!)
Ga'Luga
Well, this is a surprise.
Oz
What?
Theo
Oz! You're awake!
Oz
Who was that?
Theo
Don't worry, he's one of our greatest
allies!
allies!
Theo
You woke up just in time. Lunch is nearly
ready.
ready.
Oz
...
Oz
Apparently, I slept for a whole day after the
battle in Me'Dracona.
battle in Me'Dracona.
Oz
When I awoke, the city was peaceful again.
Oz
The sziviik who had been brainwashed into
abducting people were back to normal.
abducting people were back to normal.
Oz
The people the Red Dragon Knights were
seeking were found imprisoned in the city.
seeking were found imprisoned in the city.
Oz
They had all been freed by the time I
awoke.
awoke.
Oz
Warriors came from Me'Rizanté to
investigate Me'Dracona.
investigate Me'Dracona.
Oz
They are assisting in taking people back
home.
home.
Theo
The two children from Rigland were safe
and sound too!
and sound too!
Rizette
The sziviik from Me'Dracona are very
helpful now. But...
helpful now. But...
Ga'Luga
Their memories from the time they were
brainwashed are mostly gone.
brainwashed are mostly gone.
Rizette
They weren't able to tell us what "Gru
Grim" means.
Grim" means.
Oz
Are the same things happening in
Me'Rizanté?
Me'Rizanté?
Ga'Luga
...No.
Ga'Luga
I didn't know anything before coming to
see why Me'Dracona went silent.
see why Me'Dracona went silent.
Theo
Ga'Luga is going to be the next chief of
Me'Rizanté!
Me'Rizanté!
Oz
Is that so...
Ga'Luga
Me'Dracona itself may have been saved...
Ga'Luga
But this incident is not over.
Rizette
Apparently it was Me'Dracona's chief who
ordered all the abductions.
ordered all the abductions.
Theo
But he is nowhere to be found.
Ga'Luga
We have pieced together the fractured
memories of the townsfolk.
memories of the townsfolk.
Ga'Luga
They said their chief, A'Zelmeda, was
leading his own soldiers to snatch people.
leading his own soldiers to snatch people.
Ga'Luga
He is likely still at large.
Oz
(A'Zelmeda, Chief of Me'Dracona... He
must be one of the Apostles!)
must be one of the Apostles!)
Oz
(Finally, I've found one!)
Rizette
Oz, we are going to search for A'Zelmeda.
Theo
The people of Me'Dracona begged us to
return him back to normal...
return him back to normal...
Theo
But the only one who can dispel the
brainwashing is...
brainwashing is...
Oz
...
Oz
I have a mission to fulfil. It's up to you if
you wish to follow me.
you wish to follow me.
Theo
Oz!
Rizette
Then let's go together. We have an idea of
where to find him.
where to find him.
Ga'Luga
I will join you. I must learn the truth of
this incident and see it dealt with.
this incident and see it dealt with.
Oz
Hmph... As the next chief?
Ga'Luga
As an Erdener...and in duty to my
Brother.
Brother.
Oz
(Brother?)
Ga'Luga
If you can tell me the truth right here,
though, that is a different story.
though, that is a different story.
Oz
Where are my things, Theo?
Rizette
(He... He called Theo by name!)
Theo
I-I'll go and get them!
Oz
Let's get moving.
Ga'Luga
...
Ga'Luga
(Oz... He looks exactly like "him.")
Ga'Luga
(Rizette is a good judge of character. Theo
is an even better one.)
is an even better one.)
Ga'Luga
(But I will be making my own assessment.
Who in Erden are you?!)
Who in Erden are you?!)
Optional
Rizette
This is a lucky find. What's up ahead?
Theo
The Kawazu Wetlands. We should get back
on course.
on course.
[Mission 2-3-1]
Ga'Luga
Enemies hiding in empty villages... So
this is what you meant.
this is what you meant.
Theo
Do you think the chief of Me'Dracona is
controlling them, too?
controlling them, too?
Rizette
What do you think, Oz?
Oz
I don't know. But they are in the same
state as the sziviik from Me'Dracona.
state as the sziviik from Me'Dracona.
Theo
Then you could use your power to—
Oz
It isn't something to be used lightly. If I
had to describe it...
had to describe it...
Oz
It's life-threatening.
Theo
Sorry...
Oz
Heh... That's what makes it worthwhile.
Rizette
What?
Oz
Let's go. The Chief isn't here.
Theo
Y-Yeah...
Ga'Luga
...
Optional
Oz
You were right—this oasis is quite
beautiful.
beautiful.
Ga'Luga
I did not realize you were fond of pretty
views.
views.
Oz
...I'm only here to learn what you felt it to
be "convenient" for.
be "convenient" for.
Ga'Luga
So you noticed.
Oz
It was difficult to ignore your murderous
glances. Where are the siblings?
glances. Where are the siblings?
Ga'Luga
Resting elsewhere.
Oz
I see... This certainly is convenient.
Ga'Luga
Show me your make, "Oz."
Oz
Sure... If you show me yours!
[S-Mission 2-3-1]
Optional
Optional
Ga'Luga
Urgh...!
Ga'Luga
(His precision reminds me of Gilgan in his
prime... And his blade is as swift as Nagi's.)
prime... And his blade is as swift as Nagi's.)
Ga'Luga
(He fights as flexibly as Finn...)
Ga'Luga
(Who is this man...?!)
Oz
Hmph...
Oz
(His blows are brutally heavy, and he
utilizes a vast array of techniques.)
utilizes a vast array of techniques.)
Oz
(It's been a while since I've felt this
excited by a battle!)
excited by a battle!)
Ga'Luga
...This is no good.
Oz
You've got that right... A mere test is
nowhere near enough.
nowhere near enough.
Ga'Luga
Shall we continue?
Oz
...Regretfully, I'll decline. The siblings
will notice.
will notice.
Ga'Luga
For the moment, I'll place trust in the
strength of your arm.
strength of your arm.
Ga'Luga
But do not expect me to take my eye off
you. Both during and outside of battle.
you. Both during and outside of battle.
Oz
That's a lot of caution. I suppose it's
befitting of your "Ga."
befitting of your "Ga."
Oz
I look forward to our next convenient
opportunity.
opportunity.
Ga'Luga
...
Ga'Luga
(They really are alike... But there is also a
fundamental difference between them.)
fundamental difference between them.)
Ga'Luga
(Oz... Just who are you?)
[Mission 2-3-2]
Ga'Luga
They did not seem to be in control of
themselves. What is going on here?
themselves. What is going on here?
Oz
...
Optional
Ga'Luga
This is a secondary residence used by
Me'Dracona's chief.
Me'Dracona's chief.
Rizette
It's so green... Like an oasis in the
desert.
desert.
Ga'Luga
The folk of Me'Dracona gave us permission
to use the supplies here.
to use the supplies here.
Oz
They've got a decent stockpile.
Ga'Luga
Do you intend to carry off everything they
have?
have?
Oz
They gave their permission, didn't they?
What's the problem?
What's the problem?
Ga'Luga
Hmph...
Oz
Heh. We should make the most of their
kindness.
kindness.
Theo
Look—there's an oasis over there!
Ga'Luga
That oasis is known around here for its
beauty.
beauty.
Rizette
It seems like a good spot for a break.
Ga'Luga
Indeed... It seems "convenient."
Oz
?
Ga'Luga
...
Oz
(That sziviik is staring at me again.)
Oz
(I could continue to play dumb, but I'm
becoming curious...)
becoming curious...)
Optional
Eves
Excuse me. Might you be the Red Dragon
Knights?
Knights?
Eves
My name is Eves. I am a member of the
elven anti-crime group, the Seaspires.
elven anti-crime group, the Seaspires.
Eves
We are conducting an independent patrol of
this region.
this region.
Eves
I did not think I would have the luck of
encountering your order here.
encountering your order here.
Eves
How would you feel about engaging in some
light combat with my troops and I?
light combat with my troops and I?
Eves
We won't take up much of your time. I'm
sure it will be mutually fruitful.
sure it will be mutually fruitful.
Eves
I thank you for your graciousness. Now
then...
then...
Eves
Seaspire, Platoon Eves... Show me your
guts, louts!!
guts, louts!!
[S-Mission 2-3-2]
Optional
Optional
Eves
Urgh?! Your order is even mightier than
the rumors...
the rumors...
Eves
It appears we are still no match for you.
Eves
Thank you for your time. This loss has
been most educational.
been most educational.
Eves
Alright you layabouts! No rest till you can
show me exactly why we lost!
show me exactly why we lost!
Eves
Oh, excuse me. Farewell, Knights. I look
forward to our next meeting!
forward to our next meeting!
[Mission 2-3-3]
Oz
These footprints... They belong to a group
of sziviik.
of sziviik.
Theo
A large one.
Rizette
A heavily armed one.
Ga'Luga
It must be the force that A'Zelmeda is
leading.
leading.
Rizette
Right... Ah!
Rizette
There, on the slopes of the mountains!
Oz
!
???
ROOOAAAARGH!!!
Ga'Luga
It's an ambush!
Oz
Brace yourselves!
[Mission 2-3-4]
Theo
Phew... That was a shock!
Rizette
Were those...?
Oz
...Most likely.
Ga'Luga
The foot soldiers of this ring of abductors
and brainwashers?
and brainwashers?
Rizette
The Gru Grim...
Oz
...
Ga'Luga
Oz.
Ga'Luga
Who are the Gru Grim? What are they
after?
after?
Oz
...
Ga'Luga
I've heard you won't speak about yourself.
But what about them?
But what about them?
Oz
...The ones pulling the strings are called
"Apostles."
"Apostles."
Oz
They can penetrate your defenses and
force you to do their bidding.
force you to do their bidding.
Theo
Apostles...?
Oz
They are most likely the leaders of the
Gru Grim.
Gru Grim.
Rizette
What are the Gru Grim trying to
accomplish?
accomplish?
Oz
...
Ga'Luga
That is all we get, is it? So your goal is to
find and defeat these Apostles?
find and defeat these Apostles?
Oz
...That's right.
Theo
(It seems like...Oz is just repeating things
that someone else told him.)
that someone else told him.)
Theo
(Did someone ask him to do this? Or...
Order him to?)
Order him to?)
Oz
That's enough questions. We need to go
after this group of sziviik.
after this group of sziviik.
Oz
If we waste time, their numbers will grow.
Oz
I'm going.
Rizette
Ga'Luga?
Ga'Luga
He doesn't appear to have an ulterior
motive. But I sensed hesitation from him.
motive. But I sensed hesitation from him.
Ga'Luga
At any rate, we have an idea of his goal.
But I still intend to keep my eye on him.
But I still intend to keep my eye on him.
Theo
...
Ga'Luga
What's wrong, Theo? Is there something
on my face?
on my face?
Theo
No, it's nothing like that. It's just... It
seems like you've become more...
seems like you've become more...
Rizette
Intellectual. And calm.
Ga'Luga
How exactly did you two see me before?!
Theo
That was really cool, Ga'Luga!
Rizette
Very chief-like.
Ga'Luga
No. I still have a lot to learn.
Ga'Luga
I need to work harder. At this rate,
I'll never catch up to Mysha.
I'll never catch up to Mysha.
Rizette
Lieutenant Mysha is amazing, isn't she?
Working so hard to protect Astrid.
Working so hard to protect Astrid.
Theo
Lately even Marshal Ludmilla is in awe of
her.
her.
Ga'Luga
Really? Tell me more.
Oz
...
Oz
(They act so casually...)
Oz
(How can they stand around laughing in this
situation? Is this what camaraderie is?)
situation? Is this what camaraderie is?)
Oz
(Such pointless intimacy. Do they not see
how it dulls their blades?)
how it dulls their blades?)
Oz
Truly...
Oz
Pathetic.
Chapter 4: The Chief of Me'Dracona
Theo
These szi footprints just keep going...
Oz
They look to be in heavy armor, but they
never break stride.
never break stride.
Rizette
They must be highly trained.
Ga'Luga
They are likely Me'Dracona's main force.
Theo
We're in a desert, and our opponents are
an army of sziviik...
an army of sziviik...
Rizette
They have the advantage in this territory.
But we have Ga'Luga. And...
But we have Ga'Luga. And...
Oz
...
Oz
(An army consisting of a city's main
forces...)
forces...)
Oz
(They will be much tougher than those I
faced in Me'Dracona.)
faced in Me'Dracona.)
Oz
(Can I control this new power...?)
Optional
Fenn Fal
Greetings. I am Fenn Fal, a traveling
fencer.
fencer.
Fenn Fal
Am I correct in assuming you are the Red
Dragon Knights, guardians of Westland?
Dragon Knights, guardians of Westland?
Fenn Fal
Would you consider engaging in some
light sparring?
light sparring?
Fenn Fal
A simple fight is rather tasteless, though.
How about we set some limitations?
How about we set some limitations?
Fenn Fal
Thank you for humoring me.
Fenn Fal
(My target is here... But first I must make
certain they are deserving of my wrath.)
certain they are deserving of my wrath.)
Fenn Fal
En garde!
[S-Mission 2-4-1]
Optional
Optional
Fenn Fal
Urgh... I cannot win...
Fenn Fal
Thank you. I have learned much.
Fenn Fal
(I sensed no evil in their blows. I cannot
imagine they would kill for sport...)
imagine they would kill for sport...)
Fenn Fal
(Perhaps I should take a closer look at the
motives of my client.)
motives of my client.)
Fenn Fal
I hope we can spar again if we have the
fortune of a second meeting. Farewell.
fortune of a second meeting. Farewell.
[Mission 2-4-1]
Ga'Luga
Curse these surprise attacks...
Rizette
This still isn't as bad as it was during the
Pandemonium. We'll manage.
Pandemonium. We'll manage.
Oz
The Pandemonium...
Theo
...Oz?
Theo
Where were you during the last
Pandemonium?
Pandemonium?
Rizette
(Theo...!)
Ga'Luga
!
Oz
...
Oz
Don't know.
Theo
Ah...
Rizette
Theo... That was way too direct.
Theo
Sorry...
Ga'Luga
He reacted to the word "Pandemonium"
though.
though.
Rizette
Let's give it a little more time.
Rizette
When this Me'Dracona business is over,
we can see what Astrid thinks.
we can see what Astrid thinks.
Theo
Okay.
Theo
(Oz looked conflicted about something.)
Theo
(I wonder if he's okay...)
Optional
Theo
Or'Baruha! It really is beautiful!
Ga'Luga
Theo, don't go too close. It may be a
pretty sight, but...
pretty sight, but...
Rizette
Theo!! Get away from the water!!
Monster
GROOOAAAARGH!!
Theo
Wah?!
Oz
A monster?!
[S-Mission 2-4-2]
Optional
Optional
Oz
Hmph... I was wondering why there
weren't any animals around.
weren't any animals around.
Ga'Luga
Theo, that was careless!
Theo
I-I'm sorry! I was just excited to see some
water after all this sand...
water after all this sand...
Rizette
Theo... Thank goodness!!
Oz
Or'Baruha... It sounds like an old name,
even by szi standards.
even by szi standards.
Ga'Luga
In the common tongue, it means...
Ga'Luga
"Dazzling trap."
Oz
Heh... I see.
Oz
What's that?
Theo
Wow, an oasis! It's huge!
Ga'Luga
Or'Baruha, the largest oasis in Habsu.
Rizette
It's beautiful...
Rizette
...?
Oz
(Did a giant shadow just cross the surface
of the water...?)
of the water...?)
Optional
Luna
It's the Red Dragon Knights! Long time no
see. I challenge you to a battle!
see. I challenge you to a battle!
Solas
Luna! You're jumping into things way too
fast! Um... Hello! Nice to see you again!
fast! Um... Hello! Nice to see you again!
Luna
After our last battle we thought about how
we can improve, and we have a strategy!
we can improve, and we have a strategy!
Luna
If we want to be the best, we have to butt
heads with the best!
heads with the best!
Solas
Um... She means we want to battle you
guys, so we can learn from you.
guys, so we can learn from you.
Luna
Yeah, that!
Luna
How about it? You better not go easy on
us if you say yes!
us if you say yes!
Luna
Yay! Alright, let's go!!
[S-Mission 2-4-3]
Optional
Optional
Luna
Nyaaaaah?!
Solas
Luna! Are you okay? You said you didn't
care if we lost this one!
care if we lost this one!
Luna
What are you saying, Solas?! That fight
was over before it started, aren't you mad?
was over before it started, aren't you mad?
Solas
I guess. But look on the bright side—now
we know what we have to do to improve!
we know what we have to do to improve!
Luna
Like what? Do we need to work on our
poses again?
poses again?
Solas
I've been meaning to say this for a while,
but maybe we should cut back on that...
but maybe we should cut back on that...
Luna
What?! You can't call it a battle if it doesn't
have some pomp and whimsy!
have some pomp and whimsy!
Solas
Luna... Thank you for taking the time
to battle us!
to battle us!
Luna
Just wait, next time you'll get the honor of
seeing our victory poses!!
seeing our victory poses!!
[Mission 2-4-2]
Ga'Luga
They must have been Gru Grim pawns.
Oz
...
Oz
(These attackers are becoming more
powerful. An Apostle must be nearby...)
powerful. An Apostle must be nearby...)
Optional
Rizette
Lucky!
[Mission 2-4-3]
Ga'Luga
Mhu'Skalé is the largest village in the
area.
area.
Oz
It looks well defended. Almost like a
fortress.
fortress.
Theo
Ga'Luga, Oz! We're back!
Ga'Luga
What did you find?
Rizette
There's a mid-sized company inside. Most
of them are sziviik.
of them are sziviik.
Theo
The villagers are gathered in the town
square. They don't look brainwashed...
square. They don't look brainwashed...
Rizette
There were soldiers there waiting on a
sziviik with red scales.
sziviik with red scales.
Ga'Luga
That must be A'Zelmeda.
Theo
He was giving orders, and the soldiers
were obeying like mindless puppets...
were obeying like mindless puppets...
Oz
If A'Zelmeda is a chief, he must be quite
powerful.
powerful.
Ga'Luga
Ability wise he is a "Za." A warrior of
average skill.
average skill.
Theo
Really? I thought only "Ga" head warriors
and "Da" head tacticians could be chief?
and "Da" head tacticians could be chief?
Ga'Luga
Heredity plays a role too. A'Zelmeda's
father was the previous chief.
father was the previous chief.
Ga'Luga
He died suddenly of an illness, so
A'Zelmeda was promoted early.
A'Zelmeda was promoted early.
Rizette
Bloodline was prioritized over the
proficiency of the current Ga and Da?
proficiency of the current Ga and Da?
Ga'Luga
Me'Dracona's Ga and Da were both killed
in the previous Pandemonium.
in the previous Pandemonium.
Oz
!
Theo
So that's why he was chosen...
Ga'Luga
A fresh young leader was needed to bring
the city together after such hardship.
the city together after such hardship.
Oz
But now he's hunting down his own kind
as one of the Apostles.
as one of the Apostles.
Theo
You don't have to say it like that...
Ga'Luga
Theo, it is a truth that we must now face.
Ga'Luga
You must steel yourself against it.
Theo
...I know.
Rizette
Theo...
Oz
...
Szi Guard
Chief...
Szi Guard
We have gathered the number you asked.
Please, begin the initiation.
Please, begin the initiation.
A'Zelmeda
Very well. Although...
A'Zelmeda
They are all unsatisfactory. None of them
will make good soldiers.
will make good soldiers.
Szi Guard
My apologies. The soldiers here became
mercenaries during the Pandemonium.
mercenaries during the Pandemonium.
Szi Guard
Many of them did not return.
Szi Guard
Those remaining are children and
civilians.
civilians.
A'Zelmeda
I see... No mind. We will simply have to
train them.
train them.
A'Zelmeda
The teachings of the Void shall fill their
souls.
souls.
A'Zelmeda
Its benevolence shall cleanse their flesh...
A'Zelmeda
Soon, all of Habsu will be indoctrinated
into the Gru Grim!
into the Gru Grim!
A'Zelmeda
Yes... All shall be done by my hand...
A'Zelmeda
By the hand of the 18th Apostle, A'Zelmeda!
Szi Guards
WOAAAAAARRRRGH!!
???
I see...
???
So this is what an "Apostle" is.
Oz
A self-important brute obsessed with
their own status. Pitiful.
their own status. Pitiful.
A'Zelmeda
You... Who are you?!
A'Zelmeda
How did you get past my guards?!
Ga'Luga
Hmph. There were certainly a lot of
them...
them...
Theo
But it was nothing compared to the Aeon
Tower!
Tower!
Rizette
I am Rizette, Captain of the Red Dragon
Strike Force.
Strike Force.
Rizette
A'Zelmeda, you are under arrest on
suspicion of mass abduction!
suspicion of mass abduction!
A'Zelmeda
The Red Dragon Knights?! And
Me'Rizanté's Ga?!
Me'Rizanté's Ga?!
Ga'Luga
Give it up, A'Zelmeda. You do not stand a
chance with just those guards of yours.
chance with just those guards of yours.
A'Zelmeda
Lowly Ga, how dare you! You think you
can defeat me, a chief and an Apostle?!
can defeat me, a chief and an Apostle?!
Oz
You hardly seem deserving of either title.
A'Zelmeda
You...!!
A'Zelmeda
Your insolence is deserving of the harshest
punishment!
punishment!
A'Zelmeda
I, A'Zelmeda, hereby sentence you to
death!
death!
Oz
He has soul stones!
A'Zelmeda
Come, warriors... Follow your fate, and
embrace the teachings of the Void!!
embrace the teachings of the Void!!
Summoned Heroes
Urghh...?! ROOAAAAARGH!!
Ga'Luga
Those warriors he summoned... What's
wrong with them?!
wrong with them?!
Theo
Their eyes... They've been brainwashed!
A'Zelmeda
Allow the Void to guide you, my warriors...
Go, and strike down the non-believers!
Go, and strike down the non-believers!
[Mission 2-4-4]
A'Zelmeda
Urghh?!
A'Zelmeda
How... I have the power of the Void! Why
can I not squash these commoners?!
can I not squash these commoners?!
Theo
He just won't go down!
Ga'Luga
Neither will the warriors he brainwashed..
Is this the "power of the void"?
Is this the "power of the void"?
Rizette
At this rate we have no choice but to use
full force!
full force!
Oz
Grr...!
Oz
(I know I haven't perfected it yet.)
Oz
(But...!)
A'Zelmeda
I will not kneel!
A'Zelmeda
A leader cannot kneel before their people!
A'Zelmeda
So please, give me power! The power to
lead my people and make rich this land!
lead my people and make rich this land!
A'Zelmeda
Give me more... MORE!!
Oz
!!
???
Do you still not understand?
???
The moment you gave yourself to evil...
???
You had already secured your loss!!
Oz
A'Zelmeda!
A'Zelmeda
?!
Oz
You have not enveloped yourself in power,
but in chains!
but in chains!
Oz
Chains that bind you! Puppet strings that
control you!
control you!
A'Zelmeda
Chains... Puppet strings...?
Oz
Yes! Do not entrust the future of your
people to such garbage!
people to such garbage!
Oz
Ga'Luga
Oz's body...
Rizette
That glow, it's...!
A'Zelmeda
My... My people's future... No! I will be
the one to...!
the one to...!
Oz
Yes! Resist! Do not forsake your ambition!
Thrust out your hand and claim it!
Thrust out your hand and claim it!
A'Zelmeda
My... ambition...?! To become a great
chief... Like my father before me!
chief... Like my father before me!
A'Zelmeda
Raaaaargh!!
Oz
Urggh...!
Oz
(My strength is failing...!)
Theo
You can lean on me, Oz!
Oz
Theo?!
Theo
Now!!
Oz
Haaaaarrrgh!!
A'Zelmeda
Uooooaaaaaarghh?!
A'Zelmeda
...
A'Zelmeda
What is this feeling...?
A'Zelmeda
(It is as though my body... No...)
A'Zelmeda
(My soul has been freed from
something...)
something...)
Szi Guards
What... What are we doing here...?
Szi Guards
What are these wounds...? Who were we
fighting?
fighting?
Rizette
This is just like it was in Me'Dracona!
Ga'Luga
Have they reclaimed their senses?
Theo
You did it, Oz! Look, everyone's okay!!
Oz
Is that so...
Oz
(I cannot get used to having all of my
strength ripped from me like this...)
strength ripped from me like this...)
Oz
...!
Oz
Ga'Luga, Rizette! The north gate!
Ga'Luga
What?
Rizette
That's...
Ga'Luga
Did you see something, Rizette?!
Rizette
A man in a cape... He ran when I saw him!
Oz
Catch him! He is probably one of
the...
the...
Oz
Urgh...?!
Theo
Oz?!
Oz
Theo, go! I'm fine!
Theo
...Okay! We'll be back soon, hold on!
Oz
I have the hang of it now. Just watch,
Rolotia... I'll perfect this power...
Rolotia... I'll perfect this power...
Oz
Urgh...
A'Zelmeda
H-Hey! Are you okay?! Hey!
A'Zelmeda
Someone help him, quickly!
???
That's all the news the scout brought from
Me'Dracona...
Me'Dracona...
???
Ul Ganan, the Holy Sixth...
???
So the Red Dragons have made their move.
More importantly...
More importantly...
???
That swordmaster who cut the Eighteenth
Apostle from his connection to the Void...
Apostle from his connection to the Void...
???
Who is he?
Chapter 5: The Path to Silverdrake
Oz
At first, it was "admiration."
Oz
Admiration of stories about solitary heroes
seeking adventure.
seeking adventure.
Oz
Contrived and absurd, but full of heart-
stirring heroism.
stirring heroism.
Oz
How did a child playing make-believe end up
upon the battlefield?
upon the battlefield?
Oz
Straw, mud, and worms. Suddenly, I knew
their taste.
their taste.
Oz
Blood, flesh, and bone. I climbed over all
of it to survive.
of it to survive.
Oz
My dreams grew rotten and festered.
Oz
But still...
Oz
I continued to seek the glory that child
had once admired...
had once admired...
Oz
With a sickeningly twisted blade.
Oz
...
Oz
Where am I?
A'Zelmeda
You're awake!
Oz
You... You're Me'Dracona's chief.
A'Zelmeda
I will alert the captain immediately!
A'Zelmeda
Rest here until I return, Brother!
Oz
...
Oz
Am I cursed to awaken to a sziviik at my
bedside every time I lose consciousness?
bedside every time I lose consciousness?
Oz
Brother...?
Oz
I slept for two days, and awoke in
Me'Dracona.
Me'Dracona.
Oz
Rizette and the others searched the area...
Oz
But the man we saw seems to have
escaped to Kawazu.
escaped to Kawazu.
Oz
Now that he is free of the Void, A'Zelmeda
pieced together his memories...
pieced together his memories...
Oz
and told us something important about the
mysterious Gru Grim.
mysterious Gru Grim.
Oz
The Kawazu Wetlands...
Theo
Are you sure you're okay, Oz?
Ga'Luga
You could take all the time you need to
recuperate in Me'Dracona.
recuperate in Me'Dracona.
Rizette
You are the chief's brother, after all.
Oz
That nonsense is one-sided.
Theo
But if A'Zelmeda hadn't given us that tip,
you wouldn't have any leads, Oz.
you wouldn't have any leads, Oz.
Ga'Luga
You should go and see him from time to
time. He needs more friends.
time. He needs more friends.
Oz
Don't tell me what to do.
Ga'Luga
I'm not. This is advice, not an order.
Oz
...Hmph. We are making for the south of
the Silverdrake Mountains?
the Silverdrake Mountains?
Theo
Yeah, that's where the Gru Grim hideout
is supposed to be.
is supposed to be.
Rizette
An ice castle at the foot of the
mountains...
mountains...
Ga'Luga
A'Zelmeda said some royal family built it a
century ago to use as a second home.
century ago to use as a second home.
Theo
He also said the quickest way there is
through the wetlands, but...
through the wetlands, but...
Ga'Luga
This region is lawless. It's unlikely we will
pass through unopposed.
pass through unopposed.
Rizette
Even so, we have to pass through. We need
to make our move before the Gru Grim do!
to make our move before the Gru Grim do!
Ga'Luga
Indeed. We must smoke them out of their
hole!
hole!
Oz
(A'Zelmeda was a low ranking Apostle, yet
he was a formidable opponent.)
he was a formidable opponent.)
Oz
(It seems this will be no easy task.)
Optional
Rizette
What's this?
Oz
...
Oz
(I'm getting the hang of this power to cut
the bonds of fate.)
the bonds of fate.)
Oz
(I likely do not even need a weapon to use
it.)
it.)
Oz
(Having one merely provides me a catalyst
to aid in concentrating my power.)
to aid in concentrating my power.)
Oz
Is that right, Rolotia?
Oz
...
Oz
(Hmph... Still not talking.)
Oz
(No complaints must mean no problem.)
Theo
Oz? Who's Rolotia?
Oz
...
Theo
It sounds like a girl's name. Is she a friend
of yours?
of yours?
Oz
None of your business.
Oz
Don't misunderstand. We just happen to
be going the same way, I—
be going the same way, I—
Theo
I know. But I'm glad we're going the same
way!
way!
Oz
...
Oz
(I let my tongue slip. I need to be more
careful...)
careful...)
Optional
Rizette
Lucky!
Szi Bandit
Halt! If you wish to cross our territory, you
must pay the toll!
must pay the toll!
[Mission 2-5-1]
Ga'Luga
Those fools didn't even have the brains
to size up their opponents before attacking.
to size up their opponents before attacking.
Theo
This path is awfully lively, but not in a good
way...
way...
Optional
Takesh
Well, if it isn't the noble Red Dragon
Knights!
Knights!
Takesh
You are just the spice I need to liberate
myself from this insipid diet of brigands!
myself from this insipid diet of brigands!
Takesh
My mouth is watering at the suggestion...
Surely you feel the same way?
Surely you feel the same way?
Takesh
Ha ha ha, I knew you wouldn't let me down!
Takesh
Let us partake in the most sumptuous of
feasts!
feasts!
[S-Mission 2-5-1]
Optional
Optional
Takesh
Urgh... It seems my teeth were not keen
enough to reach your throats.
enough to reach your throats.
Takesh
Pray tell me, how long have you been
ripening to develop so rich a flavor?
ripening to develop so rich a flavor?
Takesh
If I fight alongside friends I'll understand?
Ha! How profound of you.
Ha! How profound of you.
Takesh
But were I to become your comrade, I could
no longer savor the taste of our contests.
no longer savor the taste of our contests.
Takesh
I will add your defeat to my collection of
sins, chivalrous heroes.
sins, chivalrous heroes.
Takesh
That is the true way of a divine warrior!
The Knights leave Takesh to his dramatic
monologue and resume their quest.
monologue and resume their quest.
Oz
These footprints look like bikki.
Ga'Luga
I've heard there are bikki bandits active in
these parts.
these parts.
Theo
We should be careful, then...
Optional
Rizette
What's that under the trees?
Knight A
There is an armed group coming from up
ahead!
ahead!
Knight B
Some have circled around behind us, too!
We're surrounded!
We're surrounded!
Theo
Bikki bandits... They must ambush
merchants as they cross the bridge!
merchants as they cross the bridge!
Rizette
Clever.
Ga'Luga
Too bad they found us this time!
[Mission 2-5-2]
Oz
Flitting about everywhere... They are more
like flies than frogs.
like flies than frogs.
Rizette
They weren't anywhere near as fast as
Nagi.
Nagi.
Theo
I wonder how Nagi is doing on his
journey...
journey...
Ga'Luga
He said he was going to search for a way
to help Brother.
to help Brother.
Rizette
Nagi is a seasoned traveler. I'm sure
he's fine. Although...
he's fine. Although...
Ga'Luga
He might have gotten himself into a mess
chasing one of his "princesses."
chasing one of his "princesses."
Theo
That sounds like him...
Oz
(Nagi...? Must be some bikki friend of
theirs.)
theirs.)
Oz
(And this "brother" again... It sounds like
he is ill.)
he is ill.)
Oz
(The way they speak about him, he seems
quite important to them.)
quite important to them.)
Oz
Hmph...
Oz
(Nothing to do with me, I suppose.)
[Mission 2-5-3]
Knight A
Hostiles!
[Mission 2-5-4]
Ga'Luga
We are finally halfway to the Silverdrake
Mountains...
Mountains...
Rizette
We're moving faster than I anticipated.
Theo
The messenger we sent from Me'Dracona
should be reaching Rigland about now.
should be reaching Rigland about now.
Rizette
Hopefully Astrid is in the capital...
Ga'Luga
She is very busy, after all. But even if she
is away, Marshal Ludmilla should be there.
is away, Marshal Ludmilla should be there.
Theo
Right. I'm sure she'll know what to do!
Rizette
They'll need to watch out for the Gru
Grim and do their own investigation.
Grim and do their own investigation.
Ga'Luga
I would wait for support, but we must
strike before they make their next move.
strike before they make their next move.
Rizette
Yes. The Strike Force will carry out this
mission!
mission!
Theo
Yeah! Right, Oz?
Oz
I've told you, don't include me in this.
Oz
(Although, I cannot deny this unit is
formidable.)
formidable.)
Oz
(Had I fought A'Zelmeda and his soldiers
alone, I would have slaughtered them all.)
alone, I would have slaughtered them all.)
Oz
(They may get in the way of my orders not
to leave any traces of trouble behind.)
to leave any traces of trouble behind.)
Oz
(Should I really continue to use them?)
Oz
Fine.
Oz
Let's go.
Theo
Y-Yeah!
Ga'Luga
Theo has a way, doesn't he?
Rizette
Yes, and it's the best way!
Chapter 6: An Old Friend
Rigland City
Westland, Erden
Westland, Erden
The Red Dragon Knight Headquarters
Ludmilla
The Gru Grim...?
Knight
This mysterious organization that Captain
Rizette engaged... Do you think it's...?
Rizette engaged... Do you think it's...?
Ludmilla
Yes, from her report I believe it is the
cult we have been hearing rumors about.
cult we have been hearing rumors about.
Ludmilla
A mysterious group carrying out mass
abductions...
abductions...
Ludmilla
Anyone we tracked down died fighting or
killed themselves to evade capture.
killed themselves to evade capture.
Knight
Yes. We started referring to them as a cult
because of peculiar actions like these.
because of peculiar actions like these.
Ludmilla
But to think all those we engaged till now
may have been brainwashed...
may have been brainwashed...
Ludmilla
Summon every captain in the city. We will
discuss how to handle the Gru Grim!
discuss how to handle the Gru Grim!
Ludmilla
Prepare a messenger for Astrid. And send
backup to the Strike Force!
backup to the Strike Force!
Knight
Yes ma'am!
Ludmilla
(Our enemy can easily increase their forces
with soul stones and brainwashing.)
with soul stones and brainwashing.)
Ludmilla
(We need a plan.)
Ludmilla
("Oz," the mysterious swordmaster Rizette
mentioned...)
mentioned...)
Ludmilla
(If he really can undo the brainwashing, he
is the key to resolving this situation.)
is the key to resolving this situation.)
Ludmilla
Rizette, Theo, Ga'Luga... I am not sure if
back up will reach you in time.
back up will reach you in time.
Ludmilla
Stay safe...!
Optional
Rizette
Nice!
[Mission 2-6-1]
Ga'Luga
These ambushes have been relentless
since we reached the mountains...
since we reached the mountains...
Oz
They are not mere bandits. Assassination,
not theft, is their intent. They are...
not theft, is their intent. They are...
Theo
Members of the Gru Grim!
Rizette
We overcame that last group, but I can
still sense more of them in the area.
still sense more of them in the area.
Ga'Luga
With melted snow at our feet and
mountains all around, we are vulnerable.
mountains all around, we are vulnerable.
Oz
The path is narrow and there are few
places to hide. That leaves us one choice.
places to hide. That leaves us one choice.
Rizette
Yes. We have to keep moving!
Optional
Luna
Hey! Red Dragon Knights! Over here!
Solas
Long time no see! You're here to make this
area safer? You guys're so cool!
area safer? You guys're so cool!
Luna
We heard there were rare monsters around
here, but there's some creepy people too...
here, but there's some creepy people too...
Solas
Yeah... But at least we caught some cool
monsters and had some fun battles!
monsters and had some fun battles!
Luna
The usual then, Solas?
Solas
Yeah! Red Dragon Knights, please battle us!
Luna
This time we're really gonna give it our all!
You better not let your guards down!
You better not let your guards down!
Solas
Alright! Let's go, Luna!
[S-Mission 2-6-1]
Optional
Optional
Luna
Nyaaaaah?!
Solas
Aw... I was feeling pretty confident about
our lineup...
our lineup...
Luna
I was sure we had it this time... I worked so
hard on our victory pose!
hard on our victory pose!
Solas
You're still practicing that?!
Luna
I was planning to have you in the middle in
a Y shape, Solas. You would have shone.
a Y shape, Solas. You would have shone.
Solas
This is the first I'm hearing about it... How
would I have shone?!
would I have shone?!
Solas
A-Anyway, thank you for battling us!
Luna
You were going to float too.
Solas
What?!
Ga'Luga
What is this...?
Rizette
They look like the assassins who've been
attacking us.
attacking us.
Rizette
They're all out cold...
Theo
What happened here? They don't look like
they were attacked by monsters...
they were attacked by monsters...
Oz
It probably wasn't internal discord, either.
Ga'Luga
If there is another group after the Gru
Grim, perhaps we could work together.
Grim, perhaps we could work together.
Rizette
If we can find them, we should talk.
Optional
Rizette
More assassins...
Oz
Looks like their opponents used both
weapons and magic.
weapons and magic.
Ga'Luga
They haven't been lying here long.
Theo
The other group must be close by...
Ga'Luga
I can see the foot of the mountains!
Theo
There's a cottage over there. It's hard to
tell from here, but it looks well-kept.
tell from here, but it looks well-kept.
Rizette
We're nearly at the Gru Grim's hideout.
We should take this chance to rest.
We should take this chance to rest.
Oz
...
Theo
Oz? What's wrong?
Oz
It's nothing...
Oz
(I thought I sensed something...)
Oz
(Similar to what I sensed from
A'Zelmeda...)
A'Zelmeda...)
Oz
(Is there an Apostle close by?)
Ga'Luga
...
???
I see...
???
So this is the man from the report. His
defenses are impenetrable.
defenses are impenetrable.
???
He sensed my presence even through the
aegis and multiple illusions I have woven...
aegis and multiple illusions I have woven...
???
The Red Dragons and the mysterious
swordmaster. And one more intruder...
swordmaster. And one more intruder...
???
Seems I have my work cut out for me. No
matter.
matter.
???
Before the power of our master, you are
but babes...
but babes...
Optional
Rizette
Nice!
[Mission 2-6-2]
Optional
Ga'Luga
It doesn't seem like anyone is waiting to
ambush us.
ambush us.
Rizette
No traps, either.
Theo
Maybe we've made it through all the
assassins?
assassins?
Oz
Even so, their hideout is up ahead. We
can't relax until we've dealt with that.
can't relax until we've dealt with that.
Theo
True. I guess I should cook something,
then!
then!
Oz
Why...?
Theo
So we can keep our strength up! Would
you help me, Oz?
you help me, Oz?
Oz
We still have the dried rations A'Zelmeda
pushed on us. That's enough for me—
pushed on us. That's enough for me—
Theo
Can you use a kitchen knife? I need you to
peel those potatoes.
peel those potatoes.
Theo
Don't forget to cut out the sprouts!
Oz
...
Oz
Rizette, haven't you taught this brat to
respect his elders?
respect his elders?
Rizette
You should be honored to be asked. Stop
distracting me, I'm busy.
distracting me, I'm busy.
Rizette
If you have complaints, bring them up with
Theo.
Theo.
Oz
But...
Ga'Luga
A meal cooked by Theo, Rizette, and the
mystery swordmaster? Interesting.
mystery swordmaster? Interesting.
Oz
Why aren't you helping? No free meals for
bystanders.
bystanders.
Ga'Luga
My hands aren't suited to delicate tasks.
Theo
I can teach you, Ga'Luga! Come over here!
Ga'Luga
Oh... Okay...
Oz
Heh... The title of future chief of
Me'Rizanté means nothing here, hm?
Me'Rizanté means nothing here, hm?
Ga'Luga
Silence!
Oz
...
Oz
(They are nearby.)
Oz
(They aren't trying to hide themselves. It's
like they are challenging me.)
like they are challenging me.)
Ga'Luga
Oz. What has you on edge?
Oz
...I don't know.
Oz
But if we keep going, I'll have to be
prepared to engage it.
prepared to engage it.
Theo
Do you think there are more assassins
lying in wait?
lying in wait?
Rizette
We should be ready too. For whatever may
happen!
happen!
Oz
...
Optional
Eves
Good day, Knights. It is I, Eves, the
Seaspire!
Seaspire!
Eves
There is something off about the ruffians in
this region. They are organized.
this region. They are organized.
Eves
A cult? I see... No wonder they showed no
fear of death.
fear of death.
Eves
We will do what we can to assist you in
dealing with them.
dealing with them.
Eves
But may I request a short training match?
Yes, I know you are busy with a mission.
Yes, I know you are busy with a mission.
Eves
But I feel that fighting in these unfamiliar
conditions will be good for my warriors.
conditions will be good for my warriors.
Eves
Thank you for your kindness! Now then...
Eves
C'mon you mooncalves! Get out there and
fight like this lot murdered your families!
fight like this lot murdered your families!
[S-Mission 2-6-2]
Optional
Optional
Eves
Urgh!! We have underestimated you...
Eves
You are strong. I can sense your unflagging
dedication to your training.
dedication to your training.
Eves
My troops spend all their time whining
about how they miss the ocean. Useless!
about how they miss the ocean. Useless!
Eves
What? I'm speaking like a different person?
Ah...
Ah...
Eves
M-My apologies! Constant combat with
marauders has taken a toll on my manners.
marauders has taken a toll on my manners.
Eves
I am deeply sorry for any offense! What?
You don't mind? You like my grit?
You don't mind? You like my grit?
Eves
Not only strong, but broad-minded also...
I understand why we cannot yet compete.
I understand why we cannot yet compete.
Eves
Thank you. We will continue working to
clear this area of that malicious cult!
clear this area of that malicious cult!
Oz
...!
Ga'Luga
What is this...?
Rizette
It feels like we're surrounded...
Theo
Surrounded by ghosts...
Male Voice
Welcome...
Ul Ganan
Lost Ones.
Oz
You...
Ul Ganan
I am the Sixth Apostle of the Gru Grim...
Ul Ganan.
Ul Ganan.
Ul Ganan
I am here to guide you to the right path.
Ga'Luga
Those are some big words.
Rizette
I am Rizette, Captain of the Red Dragon
Strike Force.
Strike Force.
Rizette
Ul Ganan, what do you want from us?
Ul Ganan
To teach you, and to guide you... That is
all.
all.
Oz
Hmph... In other words, you wish to
indoctrinate us into your cult.
indoctrinate us into your cult.
Oz
Just try it. I'd like to see how you've been
binding all these souls around Erden.
binding all these souls around Erden.
Theo
O-Oz, I don't think it's a good idea to
challenge him!
challenge him!
Ul Ganan
I have already made the necessary
preparations. Let us begin!
preparations. Let us begin!
Oz
?!
Rizette
Why are there so many of him?!
Ga'Luga
Is it some kind of illusion? They seem
solid!
solid!
Theo
It's like they're all the real thing...
Ul Ganan
Flay flesh and break bone... When your
soul writhes in unimaginable pain...
soul writhes in unimaginable pain...
Ul Ganan
You will see the truth!
Ul Ganan
Come, Lost Ones... Allow me to lead you
to salvation!
to salvation!
[Mission 2-6-3]
Ga'Luga
They all vanished!
Rizette
Was the real one even here at all?
Theo
O-Over there!
Ul Ganan
Well done, little knights. Your order is a
treasure trove of potential.
treasure trove of potential.
Ul Ganan
But even a treasure trove is but a shallow
gutter before me!
gutter before me!
Oz
!
Ul Ganan
Urgh!!
Theo
You did it, Oz!
Ga'Luga
No, he didn't.
Ul Ganan
Is this the power you used against
A'Zelmeda? No... It is not.
A'Zelmeda? No... It is not.
Rizette
H-He copied himself again!
Ul Ganan
You cannot use it freely. Heh... So it is
little more than a weak threat!
little more than a weak threat!
Oz
Grr...
Oz
(I can't read him. I need a clearer grasp
of his location to use it...)
of his location to use it...)
Oz
(Should I just blast the whole area? If I
miss it will all be for nothing...)
miss it will all be for nothing...)
Ul Ganan
Come... Bow before us, and allow us to
guide you to the truth!!
guide you to the truth!!
Female Voice
Ga'Luga, your left!
Female Voice
Take a big swing!
Rizette
(That voice!!)
Theo
Is it really...?!
Ga'Luga
...!
Ga'Luga
Rooaaaaargh!!
Ul Ganan
Urrggghh?!
Rizette
Ul Ganan?!
Oz
He appeared out of thin air!
Ul Ganan
H-How?! How did you see through my
illusion?!
illusion?!
Female Voice
You cast a wide-scale illusion and created
solid copies of yourself.
solid copies of yourself.
Female Voice
Then you controlled them from behind an
aegis nearby.
aegis nearby.
Female Voice
Does that sound right? You've got a lot of
tricks up your sleeve, don't you?
tricks up your sleeve, don't you?
Elmina
But you can't fool my eyes, Gru Grim!
Rizette
Elmina!
Theo
Elmina!!
Elmina
Nice one, Ga'Luga!
Ga'Luga
I could not have done it without your
instruction. Thank you, Elmina!
instruction. Thank you, Elmina!
Oz
(An elf? Is she a friend of theirs?)
Ul Ganan
The extra person I sensed sneaking around
here...
here...
Ul Ganan
It was you! You...
Ul Ganan
Traitor!!
Rizette
He disappeared...!
Elmina
So he can teleport too... He really does
have a lot of tricks.
have a lot of tricks.
Ga'Luga
What are you doing here, Elmina? It's too
soon to say Ludmilla or Astrid sent you.
soon to say Ludmilla or Astrid sent you.
Theo
Elmina... That Apostle, he called you a...
Rizette
Elmina. What's going on?
Elmina
I'll explain everything. So...
Oz
...
Elmina
(Is that...? No. Not possible.)
Elmina
Will you explain what's happening on your
end?
end?
Rizette
...Okay.
Chapter 7: The Sixth Apostle
Rolotia
Oz will soon vanquish the Sixth Apostle.
Rolotia
With this, the Void's hold over the north
should be at an end.
should be at an end.
???
...
Rolotia
Yes... I did not imagine that his fate would
draw them to him.
draw them to him.
???
...?
Rolotia
No... He is likely acting of his own accord.
Rolotia
It is yet unclear whether this is his own
gift...
gift...
Rolotia
Or a sign of the evolution Erden has
undergone across two millennia.
undergone across two millennia.
???
...
Rolotia
You believe "its" interference in Erden
accelerated their growth?
accelerated their growth?
???
...
Rolotia
...Understood. I will begin by investigating
those around him.
those around him.
Rolotia
Yes. All of time is as you command...
Rolotia
Master Chronos...
Theo
E-Elmina... Are you saying you're...
Rizette
One of the Gru Grim's Apostles?!
Oz
...!
Elmina
"Former" Apostle. Don't leave that out!
Ga'Luga
You once said you were a captive in
bandit hideouts... Is this what you meant?
bandit hideouts... Is this what you meant?
Elmina
Yes. Those bandits...
Elmina
were the cult of the Hidden God, the Gru
Grim.
Grim.
Theo
B-But you're nothing like them... You're
not brainwashed, are you?!
not brainwashed, are you?!
Elmina
Nope. I broke free of it!
Oz
How?!
Elmina
Oz, was it? You seem to have earned the
trust of not only Rizette and Theo...
trust of not only Rizette and Theo...
Elmina
but even Ga'Luga. He's a tough nut to
crack.
crack.
Ga'Luga
What do you mean by that?
Elmina
That's why I'll trust you enough to answer
your question.
your question.
Rizette
Elmina, can we speak on the road? We'd
like to ask for your help.
like to ask for your help.
Elmina
No need to ask. I have some business with
that masked snake too.
that masked snake too.
Elmina
That's why I'm here. So I'd love to join if
you'll have me, Cap.
you'll have me, Cap.
Rizette
...Thank you!
Optional
Tobias
I thought you guys were more of those
creepy assassins, but I guess I was wrong.
creepy assassins, but I guess I was wrong.
Tobias
You don't look like your average knights,
though... Heh.
though... Heh.
Tobias
How 'bout a little light sparring for fun?
Tobias
I like the way you guys think! Let me
introduce myself before we get started.
introduce myself before we get started.
Tobias
The name's Tobias. I was born to protect
Erden. They call me the Fist of the Earth!
Erden. They call me the Fist of the Earth!
[S-Mission 2-7-1]
Optional
Optional
Tobias
Ha ha ha! You sure don't hold back! I
haven't had a beating like that in a while!
haven't had a beating like that in a while!
Tobias
Huh? The Red Dragon Knights? Never
heard of 'em.
heard of 'em.
Tobias
The earth only gave birth to me recently,
so there's a lot of stuff I don't know.
so there's a lot of stuff I don't know.
Tobias
Why does everyone always look at me
funny when I tell them that?
funny when I tell them that?
Tobias
Think what you want. I know what my next
mission is.
mission is.
Tobias
To defeat you! I can't call myself Fist of the
Earth if there's someone stronger than me!
Earth if there's someone stronger than me!
Tobias
Oh, that sounded cool. I'm gonna add it to
"Tales of Tobias: Fist of the Earth."
"Tales of Tobias: Fist of the Earth."
Tobias
Next time we meet, I'll prove myself worthy
of my name! Farewell, Knights!
of my name! Farewell, Knights!
Elmina
My magic has always been strong. I was an
orphan, so I used it to steal and stay fed.
orphan, so I used it to steal and stay fed.
Elmina
Before I knew it, I'd become the leader of
all the other street kids.
all the other street kids.
Ga'Luga
So you were a full-fledged thief.
Elmina
Ha ha. I can't deny it. But my abilities
attracted the attention of the Gru Grim.
attracted the attention of the Gru Grim.
Elmina
They abducted me, and tied me to a
creepy altar.
creepy altar.
Elmina
For days they performed weird rituals and
messed around with my magic.
messed around with my magic.
Elmina
Then all of a sudden, they started calling
me...
me...
Elmina
Elmina, the Seventh Apostle.
Rizette
...
Elmina
As an Apostle, I acted on the orders of
some mystery commander.
some mystery commander.
Elmina
Following those orders, I took a lot of
people. I hurt a lot of people.
people. I hurt a lot of people.
Theo
Elmina...
Elmina
One day, I was ordered to abduct children
from an orphanage.
from an orphanage.
Elmina
It was a simple job. I gathered my
subordinates and grabbed all the kids.
subordinates and grabbed all the kids.
Elmina
But one of the little girls, dazed after just
waking up, grabbed onto me...
waking up, grabbed onto me...
Elmina
And called me "Mama."
Oz
...
Elmina
Before I knew what I was doing, I'd taken
out all my subordinates.
out all my subordinates.
Elmina
I took all the kids back.
Elmina
I set out on my own, running away from
everything and toward nothing.
everything and toward nothing.
Rizette
Elmina...
Elmina
Don't look at me with pity, Rizette.
Theo
So that's why you helped the children in
Nushelle...
Nushelle...
Elmina
Yeah, more or less.
Ga'Luga
So a little girl was the key to you
miraculously breaking the spell.
miraculously breaking the spell.
Elmina
Miraculously, huh? Maybe.
Oz
...
Oz
(Something like that broke the spell of the
Void?)
Void?)
Oz
(A spell even Rolotia and the other
Avatars couldn't break...)
Avatars couldn't break...)
Oz
(Does she have some kind of innate gift?
Or...)
Or...)
Oz
...?
Ga'Luga
Did you notice?
Oz
We're surrounded...
Elmina
Seems like the same assassins that were
lurking around the wetlands.
lurking around the wetlands.
Elmina
They're just lowlives hired for money by
the Gru Grim. No need to hold back!
the Gru Grim. No need to hold back!
Rizette
Okay. Let's handle this swiftly, then!
[Mission 2-7-1]
Optional
Rizette
What's this?
Robed Man
...
Theo
Is that...?
Elmina
A Gru Grim follower. He's no Apostle, but
he can still hoodwink people!
he can still hoodwink people!
Robed Man
Come, warriors... Follow your fate, and
embrace the teachings of the Void...
embrace the teachings of the Void...
Rizette
Soul stones! This is the same thing that
happened with A'Zelmeda!!
happened with A'Zelmeda!!
Oz
Brace yourselves!
[Mission 2-7-2]
Optional
Rizette
Nice!
[Mission 2-7-3]
Ga'Luga
These Gru Grim lowlifes... How dare they
corrupt the hearts of brave warriors!
corrupt the hearts of brave warriors!
Elmina
The hearts of summoned heroes are easily
swayed in their early moments.
swayed in their early moments.
Theo
I think that was the last of them, though.
Elmina
For the moment, maybe. More
importantly...
importantly...
Oz
...What?
Elmina
You're pretty tough, aren't you?
Theo
Oz is amazing! He gives me pointers
sometimes!
sometimes!
Rizette
Oz's "pointers" are far too rough. I'd really
prefer it if you asked someone else...
prefer it if you asked someone else...
Theo
No way! I want Oz to teach me!
Rizette
Theo...!
Elmina
Woah, Theo's getting mouthy! Maybe it's
time you let him go his own way, eh?
time you let him go his own way, eh?
Rizette
N-Not yet... It's still too soon...
Rizette
I might die.
Oz
(She's got it worse than I thought...)
Elmina
The day's gonna come sooner or later.
You should prepare for it now.
You should prepare for it now.
Theo
Oh! Elmina, how is Nushelle?
Elmina
Not bad. Things are going well with
Hymelia. I think they'll be okay now.
Hymelia. I think they'll be okay now.
Ga'Luga
Elmina... Why are you going after the Gru
Grim now?
Grim now?
Ga'Luga
Weren't you on the road to get away from
them?
them?
Elmina
After the Pandemonium ended, I started
hearing rumors about an abduction ring.
hearing rumors about an abduction ring.
Elmina
I knew it was them. That's when I
realized...
realized...
Elmina
The Pandemonium might be over, but my
fight isn't.
fight isn't.
Elmina
If I kept leaving them to do what they
please, there could be more kids like me.
please, there could be more kids like me.
Elmina
I can't let that happen. So I decided to go
after them.
after them.
Rizette
Did you use what you knew from your time
as an Apostle to find them?
as an Apostle to find them?
Elmina
Yeah. I know all their little habits.
Ga'Luga
I understand your motivations well,
Elmina. But you've made one big mistake.
Elmina. But you've made one big mistake.
Elmina
Huh?
Theo
Why didn't you call us? Why didn't you
ask us for help?!
ask us for help?!
Elmina
Urk...
Elmina
Well, I've got a habit of acting before I
think.
think.
Elmina
I'm sorry.
Rizette
We forgive you. And we understand why it
might have been hard for you to talk to us.
might have been hard for you to talk to us.
Elmina
Such graciousness, Cap! I guess
leadership was your calling all along.
leadership was your calling all along.
Oz
Let's get moving. We shouldn't give them
another chance to surround us.
another chance to surround us.
Ga'Luga
Right. Let's go.
Optional
Rizette
Lucky!
Oz
We must nearly be at the castle.
Elmina
That masked snake... The Sixth Apostle,
Ul Ganan, is there. It reeks of his magic.
Ul Ganan, is there. It reeks of his magic.
Oz
You can sense him at this distance? Are
there any others inside?
there any others inside?
Elmina
Maybe. Ul Ganan's magic is distinct, so it
was easy to pick out.
was easy to pick out.
Ga'Luga
So there could be people waiting to
ambush us.
ambush us.
Theo
Are you sure we shouldn't wait for back
up...?
up...?
Oz
They know we're coming. We shouldn't
give them the opportunity to prepare.
give them the opportunity to prepare.
Ga'Luga
And Ul Ganan is wounded. We must take
this chance.
this chance.
Theo
Okay... Let's go, then!
[Mission 2-7-4]
Elmina
This magic... It's Ul Ganan, no mistake.
Ga'Luga
Do you think he plans to attack?
Oz
...
Oz
(I feel the Void's influence. But it's not
like it was with A'Zelmeda.)
like it was with A'Zelmeda.)
Oz
(It's like Ul Ganan is calling it to
himself...)
himself...)
Oz
Elmina.
Elmina
Hmm? What's up, Oz?
Oz
What is Ul Ganan like?
Elmina
To tell you the truth, that was my first
time meeting him back there.
time meeting him back there.
Rizette
Isn't he one rank above you, if he's
number six?
number six?
Elmina
Sure, but the Apostles don't interact much.
Elmina
I've heard some things about him, though.
Oz
Tell me.
Elmina
Alright, don't get your knickers in a knot.
Elmina
He used to be a swindler.
Theo
A swindler?
Elmina
He'd sell rocks as precious stones using
his illusions.
his illusions.
Elmina
He extorted money from mountain villages
by frightening them with apparitions.
by frightening them with apparitions.
Ga'Luga
That's...
Rizette
So petty.
Elmina
It's no laughing matter. Some of the
people he hoodwinked killed themselves.
people he hoodwinked killed themselves.
Theo
That's awful...
Elmina
He got caught by the Gru Grim when he
tried tricking one of the Apostles.
tried tricking one of the Apostles.
Elmina
He had promise, though. He survived
the rituals, so now he's an Apostle, too.
the rituals, so now he's an Apostle, too.
Oz
I see.
Oz
So he's a lowlife, not worth saving.
Theo
Ah...
Rizette
Oz... We want to capture Ul Ganan alive.
Oz
And you want me to use my power so
you can?
you can?
Ga'Luga
He deserves punishment, but if we can get
him alive we may learn a lot from him.
him alive we may learn a lot from him.
Ga'Luga
Just as we did with A'Zelmeda.
Elmina
You're talking about the power you said
could break the Apostles' spell?
could break the Apostles' spell?
Elmina
If it's for real, it's the best weapon we have
against the Gru Grim.
against the Gru Grim.
Theo
I'll support you Oz, like last time! So...!
Oz
...
Oz
(Nothing to say, Rolotia? So you want me
to use it too?)
to use it too?)
Oz
(I can't get any peace from this circus.)
Oz
(But I need to keep sharpening this
power.)
power.)
Oz
I'm not making any promises.
Rizette
Oz...
Oz
But I need information too.
Theo
Then...!
Oz
It takes time for me to prepare it. And the
target needs to be weakened.
target needs to be weakened.
Oz
Make me the opportunity I need.
Ga'Luga
...Deal.
Rizette
We've done this twice now. I think we
know how to make it work.
know how to make it work.
Elmina
Heh. I see how it is.
Theo
We'll do our best so you can do yours,
Oz!
Oz!
Oz
Get ready. Don't ruin this chance by being
underprepared.
underprepared.
Ul Ganan
We are servants of the Hidden God...
Ul Ganan
Wielding blades of dazzling light... With
the True Darkness in our hearts...
the True Darkness in our hearts...
Ul Ganan
Take it... Ruma tyo... Sama tyo... Gula..
Ftavin... Magla... Ftavin...
Ftavin... Magla... Ftavin...
Ul Ganan
Ul... Magnifo...!
Elmina
Haven't heard that spell in a while...
Ul Ganan
So you've come, Seven the Traitor.
Elmina
Don't call me Seven! That chanting of
yours gives me the creeps!
yours gives me the creeps!
Rizette
Ul Ganan... This time, we will capture you!
Ul Ganan
Red Dragon Knights! You may have defeated
a false god...
a false god...
Ul Ganan
But you're nothing before our God!
Theo
H-He copied himself again!
Ga'Luga
There are so many!
Elmina
Grr... He's divided his magic up among
them!
them!
Oz
What does that mean?
Elmina
It's a desperate move that requires tearing
your very soul...
your very soul...
Elmina
One of them must be his real body, but
I can't tell which by his magic!
I can't tell which by his magic!
Rizette
That means...
Elmina
We have to take them all out!
Oz
I can't use this on all of them!
Elmina
We'll make your opportunity for you.
Don't miss, Mr. Swordmaster!
Don't miss, Mr. Swordmaster!
Oz
Grr...!
Ul Ganan
I will cleanse your bodies, your souls, and
your fates! All in the name of our God!
your fates! All in the name of our God!
[Mission 2-7-5]
Ul Ganan
Urghhhh!!
Ul Ganan
No... How could you take out all of my
bodies?!
bodies?!
Elmina
You were flitting between them all like a
little fly, weren't you?
little fly, weren't you?
Ga'Luga
No better place to hide a tree than in a
forest, I suppose.
forest, I suppose.
Rizette
There's no more copies left for you to
use!
use!
Theo
Oz, now!
Oz
Grr...!
Ul Ganan
Eeek?!
Ul Ganan
S-Stop! How dare you point your blade at
a servant of the Hidden God?!
a servant of the Hidden God?!
Oz
Nothing but cowardice left in you, Ul
Ganan?
Ganan?
Oz
No dignity or ideals? You're just a worm
that deceives others for your own profit!
that deceives others for your own profit!
Ul Ganan
And what is wrong with that?!
Ul Ganan
They were all just fools, grasping at the first
shiny thing dangled before them!
shiny thing dangled before them!
Ul Ganan
I gave them dreams! Dreams to escape the
horrors of the Pandemonium!
horrors of the Pandemonium!
Ul Ganan
So what if I made a little for myself in the
process?!
process?!
???
Come now...
???
With my help, you'll easily surpass your
great forebears!
great forebears!
Oz
Urgh...?!
Oz
(Who said that? Was that...?)
Theo
Oz?!
Ga'Luga
What are you waiting for?!
Elmina
Ul Ganan will...!
Ul Ganan
Hyaaah!! I feel it! The power of the Hidden
God, it fills me once more!
God, it fills me once more!
Ul Ganan
Ahhhh... I feel its love...!!
Theo
Ul Ganan's wounds are healing?!
Elmina
His magic is growing stronger... This is
bad!
bad!
Rizette
Ul Ganan!!
Rizette
Can't you see?! You're exactly like all
those people you tricked!
those people you tricked!
Ul Ganan
?!
Rizette
Clinging to a god, drowning in the power
thrust at you!
thrust at you!
Rizette
You're even ready to sell off your own
soul!
soul!
Oz
(Sell... your own soul?)
Ul Ganan
How dare you?!
Rizette
You wield the power you're handed
without even questioning it!
without even questioning it!
Rizette
You're far more foolish than all the people
you deceived!
you deceived!
Ul Ganan
You little... How dare you mock Ul Ganan,
the Sixth Apostle?!
the Sixth Apostle?!
Oz
Ul Ganan!
Ul Ganan
?!
Oz
You still have pride, don't you? Cling to
it, for as long as you have breath!
it, for as long as you have breath!
Oz
Haaaaaaarrrrgh!!
Ul Ganan
Urrrggggh...?!
Ul Ganan
Aaaaaaarrrrgh?!
Ga'Luga
Elmina... How is Ul Ganan?
Elmina
He'll live.
Theo
Phew... I wasn't sure what would happen
when you lost your balance, Oz!
when you lost your balance, Oz!
Oz
I shouldn't have been shaken by
something like that...
something like that...
Rizette
Something shook you?
Oz
...
Oz
Rizette.
Rizette
Wh-What?
Oz
...
Oz
Nice job stalling.
Rizette
...I did what I could.
Oz
Your words were so naive it made me
want to vomit.
want to vomit.
Rizette
Vomit all you like. Just do it outside.
Oz
...Heh.
Oz
The Red Dragon Knights succeeded in
capturing Ul Ganan, the Sixth Apostle.
capturing Ul Ganan, the Sixth Apostle.
Oz
This time, the repercussions for me were
nothing more than a nasty headache.
nothing more than a nasty headache.
Oz
Soon, I will make this power my own.
Oz
But it is also becoming a double-edged blade
that attempts to carve away at my soul.
that attempts to carve away at my soul.
Oz
At the moment I make this power mine...
Oz
Will I see my fate laid out before me?
Ga'Luga
That...is a lot of paper.
Theo
They're almost all documents about
ancient magic.
ancient magic.
Rizette
Let's focus on the newer ones.
Elmina
Having fun?
Theo
Elmina! How's Oz?
Elmina
A bit wobbly, but alive. I gave him
something for the headache. He's resting.
something for the headache. He's resting.
Elmina
I still can't believe that power of his is
real...
real...
Rizette
It's getting stronger, and he's getting
better at using it, whatever it is.
better at using it, whatever it is.
Elmina
I can't figure it out. We should ask Callen
to take a look at him.
to take a look at him.
Ga'Luga
Perhaps we should take Oz to Elvenlent?
We could check on Finn at the same time.
We could check on Finn at the same time.
Rizette
...I'll think about it.
Elmina
All these magic scrolls look valuable. We
should sell 'em—we'd make a fortune!
should sell 'em—we'd make a fortune!
Rizette
No. I'm seizing them all on behalf of the
Knights.
Knights.
Elmina
Alright. You're no fun anymore, Cap.
Elmina
I'm gonna see if I can find what I need in
here so I don't have to ask Ul Ganan.
here so I don't have to ask Ul Ganan.
Theo
What are you trying to find out, Elmina?
Elmina
Where the First Apostle... The founder of
the Gru Grim, is holed up.
the Gru Grim, is holed up.
Elmina
We need to drag them out if we're going to
end this lot for good.
end this lot for good.
Rizette
That sounds like something we need to
question Ul Ganan about.
question Ul Ganan about.
Elmina
I don't even know if they exist. But we
should be able to get a lead...
should be able to get a lead...
Elmina
...What is this?
Ga'Luga
The paper is very fancy. I cannot read the
letters, though.
letters, though.
Rizette
There's a blood seal. Is it some kind of
pledge? Or an order?
pledge? Or an order?
Theo
I can read the numbers. Is this a date?
Rizette
It's from a week ago.
Elmina
Oh! This is a holy language. Spiritual folk
like priests and such use it sometimes.
like priests and such use it sometimes.
Theo
Can you read it?
Elmina
I tried to learn it from some books in
Elvenlent. I thought it might be useful.
Elvenlent. I thought it might be useful.
Elmina
Let's see... R... Ritual... Sa... Sacrifice?
Ga'Luga
That does not sound good.
Elmina
There's a name, too. This is... What?
Rizette
Elmina...?
Elmina
Offer... Ritual... New... Hero... Flesh...
Blood... Sacrifice... And the name...
Blood... Sacrifice... And the name...
Elmina
Astrid von Draclow.