FFBE Season 1 - 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?)

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... for 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 ash in your hellfire.

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

(He starts to walk off.)

???: But, you know, Darklord... Despite the big, scary 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...)

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 minute 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.)

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 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!

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 wage 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.

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.

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...)

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.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - SHINING PURPLE LIGHTNING - MAGITEK WEAPONS FACTORY OPENING

Jake: This is the place. 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.)

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 both 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!)

Rain: 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.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - JAKE'S THOUGHTS - MIREZ VALLEY OPENING

Jake: All right. Let's take a little breather, shall we?

Nichol: Yes. It doesn't appear that the empire's forces have caught out trail.

Jake: Say... Do you remember that orphanage we passed on the way here?

Rain: Sure, I remember it. The place we went after escaping from the train, right?

Jake: Most of the rebels, myself included, grew up in that orphanage.

Rain: (...)

Jake: Ever since Sozhe became emperor, Zoldaad has been starting war after war with its neighbors. We're the orphans of those wars. All of us here.

Rain: I didn't know...

Jake: So long as the Crystal existed, the empire's power could never weaken. And the blood would keep flowing, and there would be more and more orphans like us. Children of death.

Lasswell(...): So, you're asking us to forgive you for destroying the crystal?

Jake: No, I won't ask you to forgive me. But I am sorry that I misled you. I apologize for that. If you can't forgive what I did, then after we bring down the empire, you can punish me however you see fit. I will place my fate in your hands.

Lid: Argh, I hate that! When you apologize and get all serious, I feel like I'M the jerk if I stay mad at you. A dirty trick, I call it.

Jake: Let not spite wither your lovely petals, my tiger lily. Be honest with your feelings, Lid, and ask for my hand in marriage at long last.

Lid: You hand in--!? Where the hell did that come from! You are unbelievable! How did you disguise your ass as a face!?

Jake: Ah, sweet Lid. I understand how you feel. When I was just a boy, I too would tease and bully the girls I liked.

Lid(...): All right, you know what? I've been working on the repairs all this time. I wasn't gonna show it off yet, but... Looks like it's time for you debut.

Jake: Hm? What are you talking about, pumpkin?

Lid: Mechabo Mark 2.... Finish him.

(Mechabo pokes Jake!)

Jake: Gwaugh! What the hell is this thing!?

(Jake backs up and begins to run. Lid and Rain laugh.)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - UNBREAKABLE HEART - DEVASTATED TOWN

Fina: What happened? The town has been ravaged...

Jake: Damn it! Did the imperial forces find our base?

Lid: This kind of damage could only come from an air raid.

Fina: An air raid?

Lid: Yeah. An attack from above...using airships. I can't forgive them for this. People can't keep using airships as weapons!

???: Jake!

Jake: Oh! You guys made it out okay?

Rebel Soldier: Yeah. We took shelter underground wherever we could. But there are still many wounded.

Jake: I see...

Rebel Soldier: And just when we had finally destroyed the Crystal! This is the best chance we'll ever have to attack Zoldaad!

Jake: Rushing things will only lead to greater disaster. Focus on treating the injured first.

Rebel Soldier: Yeah. I know.

(The Rebel Soldiers leave.)

Jake: Which means... Yup.

(Jake starts to walk off.)

Rain: Hey... Hey, Jake! Where are you going?

Jake: I've got a little business to take care of in Zoldaad.

Rain: A little business that you're going to do on your own, without telling any of your comrades?

Jake: Just as you say. To prevent any information getting out, we operate on a need-to-know basis. And they don't need to know.

Nichol: So is the matter irrelevant, or confidential? I suspect the latter.

Jake: Yeah, well, as the leader of a revolution, I've got to consider what happens after the revolution as well.

(Jake leaves.)

Fina: Rain? Are you sure we should just let him go alone?

Rain: What happens after the revolution... Yeah, I wonder what he meant, too. Let's follow him and find out.

(The party follows after Jake.)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AS PLANNED - ZOLDAAD IMPERIAL CAPITAL 1

(The party approaches Jake in the imperial capital.)

Rain: Hey there, Jake.

Jake: Wh-what are you all doing here?

Lid: We couldn't help wondering about what you said before.

Jake: I understand... Women often can't help wondering about me. It's tough being so popular.

Lid: Are you serious!?

Rain: Jake. Why don't you fill us in on what it is you're trying to do here? Depending on what you say, we might be able to help.

Jake(...): Help? Why would you? You have absolutely nothing to do with Zoldaad.

Rain: What? Jeez, that's kind of a harsh way to put it...

Fina: Jake. When I first met Rain, I was a little surprised by it too, but... he really is simply that sort of person. He'll fight for whatever he believes in. So I think that he believes in you... and in what it is you're doing.

Jake: (...)

Fina: And I hope it goes without saying, but I believe in you too.

Jake: Well, if my sweet Fina is kind enough to put her faith in me, then it seems I have no choice. Besides, it's not much of a secret now that you've followed me all this way... (...) Basically, you've got to know that not everyone high up in the empire agrees with what the emperor wants to do. Some are even on the rebels' side.

Lid: No kidding. High up in the empire, huh? Like who?

Jake: .....Like Crown Prince Shera.

(The party gets ! over their heads.)

Lid: What!

Rain: Crown Prince Shera.... Isn't he basically the second highest ranking person in the whole empire?

Jake: He is also unhappy with the direction this country is going in. He has been helping the rebel army in secret. When the rebellion takes down Emperor Sozhe, the country will fall into chaos. It may not be the tyranny we face now, but it will be a volatile and dangerous situation.

Nichol: And so you need Prince Shera.

Jake: We do. I'm sure you can understand. With the prince on our side, the transition to a new and better Zoldaad may be reasonably smooth.

Nichol: I see. So in the here and now, then, your intention is... To kidnap the crown prince. Is that right?

Jake: Kidnap the...? Well, that makes me sound like a hoodlum. Call it "escorting him to safety", would you?

Rain: Okay. I get it. If that's the plan, then we'll help.

Lid: So... how exactly are we gonna get Prince Shera out? Please tell me we're not just storming the castle head on.

Jake: It should be simple enough. We just need to create some havoc in town.

Lid: We... what?

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AS PLANNED - MAIN STREET ZOLDAAD 1

(The party is surrounded by Zoldaad soldiers.)

Rain: Well, we created havoc, just like you said, Jake... but is this also part of the plan?

Jake: Absolutely. Everything is going according to plan.

Lid: Are... are we seriously trusting our lives to this idiot!?

Jake: We'll let ourselves get arrested like good citizens, then once we've been locked up in the dungeons...

(Evan and Dr. Lazarov approach from the north.)

Dr. Lazarov: Heh heh heh. Looks like we've caught some unusually large rats today.

Rain: Lazarov! And...

Lid: Evan...

(Evan steps forward.)

Evan: Lid. You've become an ally to rebels, now? You really are shameless, aren't you.

Lid: Why you--!

(She starts forward but two soldiers block her.)

Evan: If you're trying to defy the empire, just give up now. You saw what we did to the rebel base, didn't you? With the Invincible, we can reduce any place on this planet to a sea of fire and destruction in an instant. Heh heh. And with my help, the empire's fleet will be the greatest air force this world has ever known!

Lid: Stop it! Airships are supposed to carry people above this rotten world, as high as they send their prayers! They ain't meant for killing!

Evan: You're still so naive. I'm going to keep making airships. And I'm going to keep making them as deadly as possible! And I'm going to make a lot of money.

Lid: Evan... What changed you? What made you like this?

Dr. Lazarov: Now, now... Quarrels between siblings can wait til later. Soldier. Arrest these traitors.

Rain: Jake. You're sure we shouldn't resist?

Jake: I told you. Everything is going according to plan.

(The soldiers move closer to the party.)

Dr. Lazarov: Take them to the dungeons...

(Lazarov gets a ! over his head.)

Dr. Lazarov: No, wait! I can think of a better place for them. Take them to the arena!

Lasswell: Jake... That doesn't sound like your plan.

Jake: Everything is... about to go very, very wrong.

Lid: Hey! Stop that! Argh!

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AS PLANNED - ZOLDAAD ARENA 1

(The Emperor and Dr. Lazarov enter their private booth in the arena.)

Emperor Sozhe: Now, fight! The victor will be rewarded with a princess of his own!

Dr. Lazarov: Heh heh heh. But there are no princesses in this country, Emperor Sozhe.

(The scene plans down to the party on the arena grounds.)

Lid: Hey... Is this the big bad emperor we heard about, for real?

Jake: Something's wrong with him... And I don't see Prince Shera either...

(The ground begins to shake. A behemoth approaches!)

Jake: I'm sorry, everyone. This has not gone at all according to plan.

Nichol: It comes as little surprise. It was the plan of an ignorant novice, after all.

Jake: Hey! This one's kind of an ass, isn't he?

Lid: You think so, heh? I thought that was pretty polite for Nichol.

Jake: S-seriously?

Lasswell: Rain. What do you want to do now? This situation does not favor us.

Rain: Doesn't matter. The only choice for us is to fight, as our honor as knights demands. Just like we always do, right? You and me.

Lasswell: Yes. That is exactly right.

Jake: Now that's some moving camaraderie! How handsome I must look, my eyes glistening with emotion!

(The behemoth charges!)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AS PLANNED - ZOLDAAD ARENA 2

Emperor Sozhe: Wonderful! You have earned your reward!

Lid: Reward?

(She gets a gold gil symbol over her head.)

Lid: If it's cash, I'll take it.

(The gate opens and soldiers comes out, along with Emperor Sozhe and Dr. Lazarov.)

Jake: Stand back, friends. I'll go to collect that reward as our representative.

Lid: Wha... Hey! Jake!

Jake: (This might be just the chance I needed. If I can strike down Emperor Sozhe right now, then...)

(The soldiers part to let Jake approach the Emperor.)

Emperor Sozhe: A fine show! But I've seen through your trickery, and I know who you are!

Jake(?): What are you talking about? We never even tried to hide who we were.

(Jake gets a ! over his head.)

Lasswell: The emperor... I believe he might in fact be...

Dr. Lazarov: Heh heh heh. It's time we wrapped up the entertainment. You'll be so much more useful as specimens in my experiments.

Emperor Sozhe: Hmph. Throw them in a cell!

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AS PLANNED - ZOLDAAD DUNGEON 1

Fina: Well, this is good, right, Jake? We're all here in the dungeons now.

Lid: All's well that ends well?

Nichol: That's one way of putting it. Bad luck seems to have an uncanny attraction to you, Jake. It is most curious.

Jake: Hey! Take it easy on me, would you?

Rain: So? What do we do now?

Jake: Soon word of our capture should spread around the castle. And once it does...

(Two guards chance places outside the cell. A maid sneaks up on the new guard and knocks him unconscious. Rain gets a ! over his head.)

Jake: My plan will prove a magnificent success. Sorry for the bother, Amelia. How about I take you out on a romantic date, to make it up to you?

Amelia: Quite unnecessary, thank you. Though I'm sorry to have kept you all waiting. Now before the guards recover...

(Amelia unlocks the cell.)

Jake: You're too clever to be wasted as the prince's maid, you know, Amelia. Though that's what makes you so fascinating, of course.

Amelia: Naturally, keeping you fascinated is the sole concern of my career, sir. But I must insist that you start moving at once... Unless you would rather end up like those guards?

Jake: Well, despite a few hiccups, we have sneaked into the castle. Amelia? Where is Prince Shera now?

Amelia: His Highness is currently confined to one of these very dungeons. His support of the rebels was discovered, I'm afraid.

Jake: We always knew it was only a matter of time, but... still. That's a damn nuisance.

Rain: Sounds like we've got no time to waste, then. Let's hurry and break Prince Shera out.

Amelia: I'm afraid that this is as far as I am able to go. Please...Save our prince. Save Zoldaad.

Rain: Of course! That's what we're here for.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AS PLANNED - ZOLDAAD DUNGEONS 2

(The party is walking in the dungeons. Lid comes to a stop and gets (...) over her head. Nichol notices.)

Nichol: Lid... Are you thinking about your brother?

Lid: Yeah... I guess deep down I still figured he'd wake up and realize what he was doing, eventually. Even though he was working for jerks, and even though he kinda turned into a jerk... I never thought he'd give up on his dream. Not for real.

Nichol: What was your brother's dream?

Lid: Building airships that would let anyone fly freely through the sky... That was our dream. We both shared it. But at some point, he started making airships to be used for war. And all for the money. I couldn't make sense of it. I kept on working in the factory on my own projects, the same way we'd both been doing. He didn't have to leave.

(She bows her head.)

Lid: (Come to think of it... That really is strange. I enver thought about it before...) (Why was I allowed to keep working there though I only ever made what I felt like making?) Well, anyhow... It all boils down to one fact: I have to stop my brother. He's my responsibility.

Nichol(...): Lid... I realize that your situation is not one that invites an outsider to give his opinion, yet I still feel compelled to say... No matter what may come, your brother will always be your brother. And you will always be his sister. That relationship is precious and can never be replaced. If you must fight your brother, make sure it is a fight you will not come to regret. Speaking as one who has lost a brother of his own...

Lid: Nichol... You're right. I'm gonna think carefully about what I need to do.

(She walks on. Jake approaches Nichol.)

Jake: That was pretty smooth, Nichol. So you come in more flavors than just "salty", after all.

Nichol: Please, do not mock me.

Jake: No, I'm serious! I totally agree with what you said. No matter what happens, your brother will always be your brother. I get that.

(Jake walks on.)

Nichol: You don't say...

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - AS PLANNED - ZOLDAAD DUNGEON ENDING

(The party approaches Prince Shera's cell. Jake opens the gate.)

Jake: Look who's here to save you! Better late than never, right?

Crown Prince Shera: I'm sorry. My involvement with your cause was uncovered by Lazarov...

Jake: You have nothing to apologize for. All that matters is that you're safe. We can still save this country.

Crown Prince Shera: Lazarov... It all began when that man came to Zoldaad. That is when Father began acting so strangely. I cannot deny that Zoldaad has always had militaristic tendencies. But... our past wars were always for just causes. Father wanted our nation to be a great one.

Fina: And now he doesn't?

Crown Prince Shera: No. Now he doesn't seem to care about anything. He is like a puppet, doing whatever Lazarov wants of him.

Jake: Is Lazarov in the castle, probably?

Crown Prince Shera: Yes. You will most likely find him wherever Father is.

Jake: Then let's take care of this once and for all. They won't be expecting our attack now.

Crown Prince Shera: Jake. I ask that you take me with you, as well.

Jake: Are you sure? We're talking about taking down your own father.

Crown Prince Shera: I am prepared for what must be done. I cannot look away. Not if I am to help lead this country to a new future.

Jake: I understand. Then we'll go together. For Zoldaad's future.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - RESOLVE - ZOLDAAD CASTLE GROUNDS OPENING

Rain: This is strange... It's too quiet in here.

Crown Prince Shera: You're right. It is odd.

Lasswell(!): Wait. It appears that we have some company.

(The scene pans up the corridor to show a soldier approaching. He's kind of lurching.)

Crown Prince Shera: Why don't we ask those soldiers what is going on? I doubt they would dare refuse me an answer.

(Shera starts walking towards the soldiers. Jake gets a ! over his head.)

Jake: Wait! There's something wrong with those soldiers!

(Shera has come to a stop. Rain rushes in front of him and draws his sword.)

Rain: They are... monsters!

Nichol: The soldiers have been turned into monsters?

(There is a red glow in the corridor. It's not clear where it is coming from. Perhaps an alarm?)

Rain: It looks like we're going to have to go through them if we want to meet Emperor Sozhe and Lazarov.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - RESOLVE - ZOLDAAD CASTLE - THRONE ROOM 1

(The party approaches Sozhe.)

Emperor Sozhe: So you've finally made it this far! Yet you will not defeat me! Now, die!

Crown Prince Shera: You... are not my father.

Jake: What?

(Shera takes a step forward.)

Crown Prince Shera: Who are you? What have you done with my father!?

Dr. Lazarov: You are mistaken. The man you see before you is undeniably Emperor Sozhe. Though I may have had to--hoo hoo!--make some adjustments.

(Shera gets a ! over his head.)

Dr. Lazarov: To be perfectly blunt, he's more a living corpse, now, than a man... Not unlike a zombie soldier.

Lasswell: Lazarov... You demon...

Dr. Lazarov: I will use Emperor Sozhe to create war, and make the entire world a testing ground for my experiments. That is why I followed Veritas, as well. But I no longer need to rely on his power. Come... Emperor Sozhe. Show those cretins the true fruits of my labors.

(Sozhe starts forward.)

Emperor Sozhe: Ugh.... guh...

Dr. Lazarov: I must warn you, though. The emperor is my most precious creation yet. I won't allow you to dismember him too thoroughly.

Rain: Grrrgh! Come on, guys! We can do this!

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

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - RESOLVE - ZOLDAAD CASTLE - THRONE ROOM 2

(Sozhe lays on the ground.)

Rain: Where's Lazarov? He got away?

Crown Prince Shera: Father!

Emperor Sozhe: That man... Lazarov, he... is probably headed for the castle's magic labs...

Lasswell: it seems that the emperor has returned to his senses.

Emperor Sozhe: My son...

Crown Prince Shera: Yes... Father.

Emperor Sozhe: I used power... to oppress my own people... and others... But this.. is all that came of my foolishness... I sought too much power... and was swallowed up by Lazarov. I may have chosen the wrong path, but.... My son... you have a chance to choose... a better path than I have... Zoldaad is.. The people... are... yours now...

Crown Prince Shera: I understand, Father. You may rely on me. .....

Jake: ..... ...You okay?

Crown Prince Shera: Yes... My tears can wait until after we have settled everything.

Jake: Right...

Rain: Then let's go. We need to catch Lazarov.

Fina: Yeah. Let's find those magic labs.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - RESOLVE - MAGIC RESEARCH CENTER 1

Crown Prince Shera: The magic labs lie beyond here.

Lasswell: Prince Shera.... The path ahead holds many dangers. I would ask you to withdraw to somewhere safe.

Crown Prince Shera: I'm sorry. I wish I could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you all in this fight, but...

Jake: Don't worry about it. Your battle lies ahead. A battle far harder to win than this one.

Rain: Indeed. You are needed for other things. Leave the fighting to us.

Crown Prince Shera: Thank you. I swear that I will rebuild Zoldaad into the country its people desire.

Jake: Hearing you say that makes me feel as strong as three men. Come on, everyone! Let's do this!

(The party starts to walk on. Shera gets (...) over his head.)

Crown Prince Shera: Jake!

Jake: Hm? What?

Crown Prince Shera: No... It's nothing... I just... ah... I will be praying for your success in battle.

Jake: ...I thank you. You can count on us to take care of this.

(They walk on. Lid is trailing behind. She comes to a stop with a (...) over her head.)

Lid: (If Lazarov is here, then that means... My brother should be...)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - RESOLVE - MAGIC RESEARCH CENTER 2

(The party rushes into the Magic Research Center.)

Rain: Lazarov!

Lid: Evan...

Evan: Lid... So here we are again. I suppose you were never one to give up easily.

Dr. Lazarov: I see, I see. So you defeated Emperor Sozhe? Fine. So long as the corpse stays reasonably intact, I can patch him up as many times as I need.

Lasswell: Even you would not... You cannot really mean to continue to profane a deceased emperor in such a way!

Rain: What are you really after, Lazarov? Why bring the dead back to life?

Dr. Lazarov: Heh heh heh... Reanimating the dead is no more than a means to an end. And that end is eternal life.

Rain: Eternal life? That's why you've been perverting the laws of nature? There's no such things as eternal life!

Dr. Laazarov: Oh, no no no. That is where you would be wrong. Eternal life does exist. In this world right now, there are monstrous people who have lived over seven hundred years.

Rain: Over seven hundred years?

(Fina gets (...) over her head.)

Dr. Lazarov: But there is still much research to be done before I can claim eternal life for myself. And, you know, there are simply never enough corpses for me to experiment on. So what's a perfectly sane scientist to do? Don't answer yet! I'll give you a hint. What is the most efficient way to create human corpses?

Rain(!): You can't mean... That's what this war is all about!?

Jake: You son of a--! Is this... Is this all some kind of sick joke!?

Lid: Evan... Why would you go along with this lunatic?

Dr. Lazarov: What's this, now? You mean... you didn't even notice? Hmmm! So it's believable enough to fool even family. It seems my techniques have come quite a long way.

Lid: y-you... No... You can't mean... my brother...

Dr. Lazarov: I can mean, and I do mean! Do you want me to illustrate? How well he has been brainwashed? Evan. Why don't you laugh at your sister's stupidity?

Evan: Of course. Ha ha ha! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha! Money! Money! Money! I want money! Money is everything!

Lid: N-no..

Dr. Lazarov: I needed the Invincible for my plans. So I took the liberty of brainwashing this fool.

(Evan turns in circles.)

Evan: Money! Money! Money! MONEY! MONEY!

Dr. Lazarov: I have to say, though, that this obsession with money is not a result of my brainwashing. That is something that was already within him. I assume my tinkering must have somehow amplified the desires he already had.

Lid: Shut up! Shut up! I don't even care! Lazarov! You've gone too far!

Dr. Lazarov: Ha ha ha! I'm not nearly finished yet! After all, none of you can stop me!

(The scene shifts to the left and right, showing tubes holding experiments opening. Zombie soldiers approach the party. Battle begins! After the zombies have been vanquished...)

Jake: They're headed for the roof! Let's go after them!

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - RESOLVE - ZOLDAAD CASTLE ENDING

Rain: Lazarov! We won't let you get away!

Dr. Lazarov: Heh heh heh...

(Lazarov walks off. The party rushes forward, but is bounced back by something.)

Lid: The Invincible!

(Dr. Lazarov and Evan are aboard the Invincible.)

Dr. Lazarov: I was just running out of bodies anyway. I think I'll have Zoldaad burnt to the ground.

Rain: Damn it!

Jake: This is bad, everyone! If they attack from the sky, there's nothing we can do!

(The scene shifts to show Bahamut, glowing red, in the sky above the clouds.)

Bahamut: The Iron Wing... Invincible.. Have you taken back the heart that was stolen from me? Fine. Then allow me to measure your worth.

(Bahamut Mega-flares the Invincible! The Invincible is covered with flames.)

Rain: Fina... That esper...

Fina: Yes. That is Bahamut.

Lid: It took down the Invincible in a single hit.. What... What kinda power is that?

Lasswell: Well... Even if it was not trying to help us, we were saved regardless.

Jake: Let's go and find Prince Shera. We need to talk about what happens next.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - FIGHT TO TAKE BACK - DOWNTOWN ZOLDAAD 1

(The party is walking in downtown Zoldaad. Amelia approaches.)

Amelia: I've had a message from the crown prince. The Invincible has been sighted.

Lid: It has?

Amelia: It is in one of Zoldaad's old hangars. It is no longer in use, and is some distance from here.

Lid: An old hangar? Yeah... he could fix up the Invincible in a place like that.

Jake: Let's hurry. If they get it off the ground again, we'll be in trouble.

Lid: Hey... can you tell your prince something for me? I take total responsibility for the trouble my brother has caused, and I'm gonna fix this mess.

Amelia: O-of course.

Nichol(...): Lid. Are you really ready for this?

Lid: I am. I'm gonna break through my brother's brainwashing. I dunno if it's even possible or not. But I'm gonna do it anyway. I'm all he's got, see? No one else is gonna save him.

(Nichol nods.)

Nichol: I understand. If what this battle means to you is saving your brother, then I will give you my fullest support.

Rain: As will we.

Fina: Lid. Let's do it!

Lid: Thank you. Everyone. All right, let's go! Lickety-split!

(They rush off.)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - THE DREAM EATING SHIP - HANGAR OPENING

Rain: Lazarov!

Dr. Lazarov: Hoohoohoohoo, hee hee hee! Aren't you a little slow? If you were hoping to catch me before the Invincible was repaired, you are too late. We are ready to fly.

Rain: So what?

Dr. Lazarov: What?

Rain: All we have to do is beat you until you can't move, before you get on.

Dr. Lazarov: Ho... You fire this hot, stinky stream of bravado at me, even seeing the foes that stand before you?

(Indeed, a group of soldiers stand between Lazarov and the party.)

Dr. Lazarov: You truly are imbeciles.

Rain: You think so? You've gotten to see us fight plenty of times by now. Monsters like these won't stop us for a minute!

(Rain and Lasswell draw their weapons.)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - THE DREAM EATING SHIP - HANGAR 1

Dr. Lazarov: Impossible... You defeated all those monsters?

(He backs up a step.)

Rain: This is the end for you, Lazarov!

Dr. Lazarov: It might be... if I didn't still have an ace up my sleeve. Evan!

(Evan emerges from the hangar. Lid steps forward.)

Lid: Evan!

Dr. Lazarov: Buy me some time. It doesn't matter how much.

Evan: Of course.

Dr. Lazarov: I did nothing to this specimen but a bit of brainwashing. His body is still living flesh and blood, obeying nature just the way you like. I'm sure you could put a stop to him in no time. But will you really be able to? Can you kill the brother of your ally so easily? Heee hee hee hee hee!

(Lazarov goes into the hangar.)

Lasswell: Blast it! Lazarov is escaping!

Lid: Evan!

Evan: You're not to get in Lazarov's way. Money... Yes, money is all I need...

(Battle begins!)

Evan: Don't make fun of me just because I take this physical form.

Lid: Evan, please! Come back to us!

Evan: I'm already here! I'll do whatever it takes to get my hands on more cash!

(Battle commences! You defeat Evan.)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - THE DREAM EATING SHIP - HANGAR ENDING

(Evan kneels on the ground.)

Evan: Urgh... Not yet... I'm not finished yet...

(Evan stands up, ready to fight some more.)

Lid: Everybody, pull! I'll take care of my brother!

(The rest of the party backs up. Lid fights Evan.)

Lasswell: Lid!

Jake: Wait. Let's leave this to Lid for now.

Nichol: Yes. The only one who might be able to save him now is his sister.

(Lid and Evan exchange more blows.)

Lid: Evan! Evan, please! Open your eyes!

(Lid strikes at Evan, who kneels again.)

Evan: Ugh... pay... Money... I need money...

Lid(...): ...Right. You need money.. Then why don't you just kill me! Kill me, and get your reward from Lazarov!

(Lid stands spread-eagle, arms outstretched. Evan takes a step towards her.)

Lid: Do it! Just do it already!

Evan: Urghhhh... Aughhh....

(Evan steps closer.)

Evan: Ugh...Money... Money...for Lid... I need money for Lid...

(Lid gets a ! over her head and drops her arms.)

Lid: You...

Evan: Ngh! Uwauuuuuuugh! Nooooooo!!!

(The scene flashes white. A flashback occurs. Lid is talking to a soldier from Dilmagia. Evan is nearby in the shadows.)

Lid: What do you mean, you're cutting our budget!?

Evan(!): Lid?

Soldier: We need warships. You aren't producing any. I'm sorry, but you had to know this was coming.

Lid: But yet think of a world with mass-produced airships! If travel were easy, people could really understand one another, see? Forget warships--we wouldn't need wars!

Soldier: Yeah, maybe in fantasy land. If Dilmagia wants anything mass-produced, it's airships that can be used for battle. We're getting a lot of orders coming in from Zoldaad. So if you can't produce what we need, we'll get someone else who can.

Lid: But my brother and I are the best engineers alive. If you think you can get by without us, go ahead and fire us.

(Lid leaves. Evan approaches the soldier.)

Evan: About those warships you were talking about...

Soldier: Oh, Evan. Tell your sister I've thought about it, and you're both fired. You two may be genius engineers, but all that talent means nothing to me if you can't follow orders.

Evan: I can follow orders.

Soldier: Oh yeah?

Evan: I just have two conditions. First, you have to double my pay.

Soldier: You don't hold back, do you! What's the second?

Evan: You have to keep Lid on too. Not making warships. Just let her keep doing R and D here at the factory, like she's been doing till now.

Soldier: Impossible. You can't expect us to go along with demands like that! Except... you and I both know that we probably will, huh. You just have to promise to toe the line, kid. Let me talk to the man upstairs.

(The flashback ends.)

Evan: I need money.... Money for the airship... That's why... I'll make warships to earn money.... So that Lid... can make the airship of our dreams...

Lid: Evan... So that's why...

Nichol: It looks as though we broke through the brainwashing.

Lid: Then... then why... Why didn't you tell me?

Evan: If I had told you... you would have insisted on getting a job building warships yourself. So that I wouldn't have... But in the end... my desire to help you... Look what came of it... I used the Invincible... to hurt so many people... Forgive me, Lid. This is all my fault... I'll pay for it... with my life...

(He stands and holds his weapon like he's about to commit suicide.)

Lid: Evan!

(Jake rushes to Evan's side and disarms him.)

Lid: Jake!?

Evan: Wh-wha...

Jake: Do you understand? Death won't pay for your crimes. But if you live, there might be something you can do.

Evan: Something... I can do...

Lid: Jake. Thank you.

Jake: Not at all. Anything for my beautiful tiger lily.

Lid: Don't call me your....! Oh, forget it. Jerk.

(The hangar begins shaking!)

Fina: Wh-what's happening?

Evan: These vibrations... The Invincible has started up its engines!

Lasswell: Meaning that Lazarov is taking off. What should we do?

Fina: What CAN we do? How do we fight an airship in flight when we're stuck on the ground?

Evan(...): There may still be a way... Come with me.

(The scene shifts. The party approaches another airship.)

Evan: Here.

Lid(!): Evan, this airship...

Evan: The Enterprise. I designed it myself.

(He bows his head.)

Evan: Its development was axed, though, before we made more. It took too much power. But she can still fly. If it's a question of speed, I don't think she'll lose to the Invincible. Let's go, then. I'll take the helm.

Lid: Thanks for this, Evan.

(The scene shows the Enterprise taking off from the hangar. It comes abreast of the Invincible.)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - THERE GOES THE SHREW - INVINCIBLE EXTERIOR OPENING

Jake: Phew... That is some wild driving. And that's your older brother, Lid?

Lid: You got it. What, you don't see the resemblance? How else do you think I ended up such a sweet, delicate flower, huh?

Rain: All right, let's go! We're going after Lazarov next!

(They run off.)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - THERE GOES THE SHREW - INVINCIBLE EXTERIOR ENDING

Dr. Lazarov: I did not think they would follow me this far.... Why are they so relentless? What do the affairs of Zoldaad matter to knights of Grandshelt? Curses! If that pesky rebel hadn't gotten them involved... (...) Hm? Wait a moment... That rebel... I'm quite sure I have seen him before.. That's it! That photograph in the emperor's room... (!) Oh... Oh, that's too perfect. Hehehehehe... It seems Lady Fortune hasn't abandoned me yet.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - TO THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN POWER - INVINCIBLE INTERIOR 1

Jake: Lazarov! If you believe in any god apart from yourself, make peace with him now.

Dr. Lazarov: Really? But if I fall here, then the search for immortality will end with me.

Rain: What you're creating isn't immortality. Whatever you get from messing around with human lives... That's not immortality!

Dr. Lazarov: It's not surprising that you fail to understand the sublime aims of my research. Fine. How about a deal then, Jake?

Jake: A deal?

Dr. Lazarov: I will withdraw from Zoldaad. I will swear to never again involve myself in its affairs. In exchange, you will let me go free.

Jake: Hah! Let you go free?

Dr. Lazarov: Or if you would prefer, Jake... I could continue to manage Zoldaad from the shadows. Either way, I can guarantee the future safety of your homeland.

Jake: What the hell are you babbling about? You're deranged.

Dr. Lazarov: I believe you may want to hear me out, Jake. I believe, in fact, that Zoldaad's future must be your greatest concern.. You must want to help you little brother. And the crown prince will have such a great burden to carry on his own.

(Lid gets a ! over her head. She and Rain turn to look at each other.)

Lid: Huh? His little brother? The crown prince? Jake, what's this joker talking about!?

Jake(...): I guess it's no surprise that you would have found out, Lazarov. You did spend so long at the emperor's side, like a burrowing tick.

Rain: Jake, what are you saying?

Jake: I and Prince Shera are brothers. Well, half-brothers, if you prefer. Emperor Sozhe is my father, too. But my mother was not the empress.

Lid: She wasn't? But then how...?

Jake: How? Come now, lovely Lid. You're an engineer, aren't you? You know how things work. Anyway. Having someone like me around might introduce some.... troublesome ambiguity to the line of succession. So I was sent away from Zoldaad.

Nichol: But when you heard what was happening in your homeland, you returned and raised a rebel army... Is that it?

Lid: So then... the reason we were able to meet up with the prince like that was...

Jake: Exactly. He knows that we're brothers.

Dr. Lazarov: Letting me go would be the right thing to do, if you really do care for your baby brother. Shera is stepping into quite the mess, taking up the mantle of emperor. Bringing peace to Zoldaad will be no small task. Won't you help to take away even one of his worries? Isn't that what a good brother would do?

Jake: You're right. Zoldaad's safety must come first.

(Jake walks to Lazarov's side.)

Lid: What the heck! Jake, seriously?

Dr. Lazarov: (Perfect. He's wavering now. If I can just play him right, I may turn the tables yet...)

Jake: So what exactly do you want from me?

Dr. Lazarov: I need your strength. I want you to help me defeat this motley band of interferers. For the sake of Zoldaad's future.

Jake: Fine. I understand. Hryugh!

(Jake knocks Lazarov down!)

Dr. Lazarov: Aughhhh....

Jake: I thought you were supposed to be some big-brained mastermind. But I've seen village drinks eating bugs for money who had more intelligence than you.

Dr Lazarov: Why... But why.. Don't you care... about Zoldaad? About your brother?

Jake: Listen, and listen well. These people right here have nothing to do with Zoldaad, and they've fought by my side up until this moment. I only give my strength to people I believe in. I believe in these people, and they've believed in me. I'm not going to betray friends like that!

Lid: Jake!

Jake: Let's bring this farce to an end. Everyone, lend me your strength for this one last battle!

(Battle begins!)

Lazarov: I... The master of a mind said to be the treasure of all humanity... I'd be a fool to let myself be defeated by the likes of you! Behold! The brilliant among us are able to turn strength into intelligence!

(Battle commences. You defeat Lazarov!)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE - TO THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN POWER - INVINCIBLE INTERIOR ENDING

(Lazarov is crawling on the ground.)

Dr. Lazarov: Ah...no... I can't die... My research... isn't yet complete...

Jake: Hmph. Tenacious little parasite, isn't he.

(There is a cyclone of wind! Veritas of the Heavens appears!)

Rain: Veritas of the Heavens!

Dr. Lazarov: Veritas! Perfect timing, as always! Help me, my ally! We are partners, are we not??

Veritas of the Heavens: I don't remember allying myself with you. The Sworn Six have no intention of using any strength but our own to achieve our goals.

Dr. Lazarov: Th-then... why...

Veritas of the Heavens: Until now, you were no more than a fly buzzing in the air around us. However, you began using the Invincible for your own selfish reasons. And we could overlook your insolence no longer.

(Veritas of the Heavens casts a spell, which knocks Lazarov aside!)

Dr. Lazarov: Urk!

Veritas of Heavens: I heard that you defeated Darklord and Flamelord. That was no mean feat.

Rain: If you're that impressed, maybe you'd like us to defeat you next? That would suit me.

Lid: Rain, hold up. There's something I gotta ask first. Veritas of the Heavens. Are you Cid?

Veritas of the Heavens: Ah... Yes, I was once called that name, long ago.

Lid: I don't get it, though... Why would Cid become one of the Veritas? Why would that Cid want to destroy the crystals?

Veritas of the Heavens(...): Why do the crystals exist in this world? You children, do you even know?

Lid: Huh?

Veritas of the Heavens: Until you uncover that truth for yourselves, you barely exist in the same realm as we Veritas. There is no need for me to answer your questions.

Lid: I... see.

Veritas of the Heavens(...): Seven hundred years ago, there was nothing in my heart but the desire for vengeance. Yet... my dealings with the dwarves lit a spark in my heart, warm and bright. I left behind the arts of airship building, in gratitude. And today, I must give thanks once more. The airship that you rode here....

Lid: The Enterprise?

Veritas of the Heavens: You have brought the arts that I left behind to such great heights... It is splendid work. I'm honored to have seen it. Please pass my compliments to the one who made it.

Lid: ...I will. I'll tell him. I think my brother will be very happy to hear that.

Veritas of the Heavens: Then I believe the time for talk has ended. We require the Invincible for our goals. And so we will be taking it back.

(He summons a light and teleports the party!)

Rain: What the...? Where are we?

Lasswell: Looks like the Veritas of the Heavens sent us flying.

Fina(!): Hey! Look at that!

(The Invincible flies by.)

Lasswell: So in the end... the Invincible has returned to the hands of the Veritas.

Lid: Yeah.. But... No matter what, the first Cid wouldn't ever use the Invincible as a tool of war. I'm sure of that. I just know it.

Jake: Hmmm. Well, if you say so, I guess that means Zoldaad is safe. And that's largely thanks to you all. My old man can't be here to say it, so... on behalf of Emperor Sozhe, thank you. I will be eternally grateful to you all.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE -- NO MATTER HOW FAR AWAY -- DOWNTOWN ZOLDAAD 2

Jake: Prince Shera... Ah, I beg your pardon. Emperor Shera. Please do your best to rebuild Zoldaad, and restore its soul.

Emperor Shera: Of course. I fully intend to. And, Jake... If you wish to... I would be happy to have you remain here in Zoldaad, as well.

Jake: Emperor Shera. I think you know better than to make such an offer. But no matter how far I am from Zoldaad and you, I will always be watching over you both. I hope that will be enough.

Emperor Shera: Yes.... I understand.

Evan: I am going to remain here and continue my airship research, with the support of Emperor Shera.

Emperor Shera: I plan to have Evan build us airships that will aid us in times of peace, now.

Evan: Even if I was being manipulated by someone else, that doesn't just wipe away what I did. That's why... I've got to do whatever I can to atone for that.

Lid: I'm sure you'll do a whole lot! You're the man that Cid himself acknowledged, after all.

(Jake and Lid walk away from the Emperor and Evan, joining the rest of the party.)

Jake: Then I guess it's time I atoned for my crimes as well. I did destroy the crystal, after all. So, Rain. It looks like I'll be joining you. Let me redeem myself by helping you in your fight to protect the remaining crystals.

Rain: I understand. Welcome aboard, Jake.

Lid: Sounds like a convenient excuse to me. Really, you just wanna keep chasing me and Fina around, ain't that right? You pervert.

Jake(...): ...I deny that absolutely.

Lid: See, that hesitation right there is why I don't believe you.

Jake: Ha ha ha ha! Well, why should I avoid the company of two beautiful women? My lovely Lid! My sweet Fina! And you other fellows are tolerable enough, too!

(Rain, Nichol, and Lasswell get irritated at this.)

Lid: ...You see? You see what we're stuck with now? Just look at him.

(Jake has joined the party!)

(The scene shifts to the Veritas. Darklord and Flamelord are standing outside. Heavenlord appears in a whirlwind.)

Veritas of the Flame: Oh, Heavenlord! You're back? Did you fight them?

Veritas of the Heavens: My purpose in going there was not to battle Rain and his allies. I was there to take back the Invincible.

Veritas of the Flame: What? So you didn't even fight? I would've come along if I'd known you were gonna wimp out like that. I don't like letting them go on thinking they've beat us.

Veritas of the Dark: Flamelord.. What does victory mean to us? These petty battles are like butterflies. Chasing them can only lead us off the path of true victory.

Veritas of the Flame: Yeah, yeah. I know that. Damn smug butterflies...

Veritas of the Dark: Look. We have nearly come to the end. Our goal lies just ahead.

(The scene pans up. The earth cracks in front of them.)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE -- IRON SPLITTER -- ERODED CASTLE 1

(The party enters the eroded castle. The others turn to look back at Lasswell, who has stopped.)

Lasswell: What is this? My sword...

Nichol: The people of the capitol here have said that a legendary sword is rumored to rest in this castle.

Rain: And you think that has something to do with why Lasswell's sword is acting strangely?

Nichol: Even if the rumors are no more than legend, legends may grow from seeds of truth.

(Nichol takes a few steps further into the castle, then stops and gets (...) over his head.)

Nichol: What's more, I feel some dark power lurking somewhere further ahead. Do you sense it too, Fina?

Fina: Me? ...Oh... Yeah. It feels... strong. And scary. And... just strange.

(The others start to walk in, leaving Lasswell behind.)

Lasswell: Purple Lightning is no ordinary sword. I wonder, might it be somehow attracted to that dark power you speak of...?

(Lasswell follows the others.)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE -- IRON SPLITTER -- ZANTETSUKEN 1

(The party approaches the statue of an esper.)

Rain: Is this esper... responding to your sword, Lasswell?

???: Purple Lightning... it has been long since last we met by chance.

(The screen flashes white. The esper turns flesh!)

???: Time is ever changing.... The children of men live, and die. Yet I have not forgotten the sound of our blades ringing out against each other that day. You, who now hold Purple Lightning... Would you dare cross blades with me, the mighty Odin?

Lasswell: If I do battle with you, what will I gain?

Odin: I will make you a gift of my spear, Gugnir. And if you prove yourself worthy... perhaps greater power yet.

Lasswell: In that case, then...

Fina: Hey... Are we sure this is a good idea?

Rain: Odin is a powerful esper, right? I'm sure Lasswell wants to get him on our side too.

Lasswell: Odin. As you desire, I will show you the strength of my sword.

Odin: You show fine spirit. But single combat against humans holds no thrill for me. Come at me with all of your allies!

(The party draws their weapons. Battle occurs! Afterwards...)

Odin: Your skill with that sword... pales in comparison to the one who held it before you.

Lasswell: Ngh...

Odin: Still... you are yet a child of man. And for a human, you show potential. You may be able to master that blade, in the time it takes for one such as I to blink. You have the skill, if you choose to employ it. I look forward to seeing you do so. I will grant you the gift of my spear.

(The screen flashes white. Odin has turned back to stone. The esper Odin has joined the party!)

Lasswell: He said... I paled in comparison to the one who held this blade before me.

Nichol: That blade does appear to be a very old one....

Lasswell: Yes. I inherited it from another. And who used it before him? I cannot say. When an esper speaks of the past, there is no telling whether he is speaking of years.... or thousands of years.

Rain: Either way, Odin still decided you were worthy of his power, right, Lasswell?

Lasswell: With some conditions... but yes. All I have to do now is continue to grow stronger.

(The party leaves)

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE -- IRON SPLITTER -- ZANTETSUKEN 2

(Fina, Rain and Lasswell approach Odin's statue. As they draw near, the statue turns to flesh once more.)

Odin: Your sword has grown sharper. It is now a blade able to protect those you care about...

Lasswell: Purple Lightning... is it reacting to you?

Odin: To you. That light is proof that you have been found worthy. You are worthy now to stand against me... and my Zantetsuken. Now show me. The power within you.

(Lasswell draws Purple Lightning. Battle occurs! Afterwards...)

Odin: I am reminded of a time long past.... Zantetsuken..... and Purple Lightning... And the distant day when these two blades met in battle.

Lasswell: This is not the first time someone has wielded this blade against you?

Odin: It was a fierce battle. The very land was torn asunder. That battle... brought me great joy. But you have still some way to go. When you are ready to face the true power of Zantetsuken... Let us battle again that day.

(Odin turns into a statue once more. The esper Odin evolved!)

Lasswell: Purple Lightning has been used against even espers in battles that tore the very earth... Still, to lend your power to one you once battled against so desperately... I suppose that espers must see the world different than we mortals do.

ZOLDAAD EMPIRE -- IRON SPLITTER -- ZANTETSUKEN 3

(The party approaches Odin's statue, who turns flesh as they draw near.)

Odin: Is even my power and the Zantetsuken I wield not enough for you?

Lasswell: We battle our enemies, but we do not seek war. We but wish to protect others by preventing larger conflicts.

Odin: One does not require purpose to seek power. Would you not agree, knight?

Lasswell: Power without purpose brings about nothing but senseless destruction. I wield Purple Lightning for the purpose of protecting others from such destruction.

Odin: Hah. Spoken like a true human. Then come, show me the strength of that purpose!

(Lasswell draws Purple Lightning. Battle occurs! Afterward...)

Odin: This is what you meant. I shall ask you once again, child and knight of man. Should you acquire the true Zantetsuken, what is it that you would protect?

Lasswell: There should no longer be a need for words. I have spoken to you in battle through Purple Lightning. You should already know my answer, Odin.

Odin: Sure fire in those eyes. the one who once wielded that blade.... No, it is nothing. There has never been a finer wielder of Purple Lightning than yourself. I offer you the true power of my Zantetsuken as proof of your worth.

(There is a flash of white light as Odin turns to a statue once more. The esper Odin awakened!)

Lasswell: I have to become even worthier of the espers' power.

Rain: Anybody could've chosen, but it ended up being you. Stop getting so eager and just savor today's victory.

Lasswell: Heh... Don't worry about me. I'm only making up for your lack of eagerness.