Script of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 - Chapter 3
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
The third chapter of Xenoblade Chronicles 3, Saffronias, focuses on Taion's history with Colony Lambda.
|
This page or section is incomplete. In other words, yes we know it's unfinished; we just didn't want to leave it blank in the meantime. You can help complete it. The editor who added this tag elaborates: Speech bubble cutscenes, dialogueless cutscenes |
Taion's Past[edit]
Outside the turtle-like Ferronis of Colony Lambda, a collection of Agnian soldiers are reviewing battle plans. A younger Taion is among them.
Agnus lieutenant
(dripping with derision)
(dripping with derision)
...So split into three units, our main troops go wide, and first to make contact withdraws...?
What are you, a coward?
What are you, a coward?
Taion
(offended)
(offended)
What was that?
Agnus lieutenant
Huh?
Taion
I asked you what you said! You think I'm scared, is that it?!
I'll have you know my plan is textbook!
I'll have you know my plan is textbook!
Another soldier pulls Taion away from the lieutenant.
Agnian soldier
Drop it, Taion.
Taion
(firmly)
(firmly)
...Let go!
Colony 13 is a complete enigma. Our data is incomplete.
Colony 13 is a complete enigma. Our data is incomplete.
Agnus lieutenant
It's just way too cautious, you clod. It's tedious, and it's dull.
Can you see that?!
Can you see that?!
The lieutenant points up to Colony Lambda's Flame Clock. It's running very low.
Agnus lieutenant
If we don't eat now, we'll starve.
We don't have the time to mess around!
We don't have the time to mess around!
Taion
What does-
Agnus lieutenant
(calmer but still derisive)
(calmer but still derisive)
Look, Taiky-boy...
I mean, we're *Iron Lambda*, yeah?
The colony led by Commander Isurd.
And this is some no-name backwater. We hit from the side, and we hit hard.
Am I wrong?
I mean, we're *Iron Lambda*, yeah?
The colony led by Commander Isurd.
And this is some no-name backwater. We hit from the side, and we hit hard.
Am I wrong?
Taion huffs.
Agnus lieutenant
What we need is momentum!
Gotta play hard to win big!
Gotta play hard to win big!
Taion narrows his eyes and looks away in thought.
Later, in the commander's tent, a blue-haired woman — Nimue — is reviewing Taion's plans.
Later, in the commander's tent, a blue-haired woman — Nimue — is reviewing Taion's plans.
Nimue
Right, I see...
One team draws the sentries away,
then the main force can strike en masse, where the flank will be left loosely defended.
Seems optimal.
Is that right, Taion?
One team draws the sentries away,
then the main force can strike en masse, where the flank will be left loosely defended.
Seems optimal.
Is that right, Taion?
Taion
(softly)
(softly)
Huh-? Yes. Correct.
Nimue gives him a stare for a few seconds. Taion is visibly unpleased.
Nimue
...All right.
If that's your opinion, we'll approve it.
Yes, Isurd?
If that's your opinion, we'll approve it.
Yes, Isurd?
Isurd
Yes. If you say it'll work, I trust you.
Happy, Taion?
Happy, Taion?
Taion
Y-yes...
A soldier appears in the room.
Agnus soldier
Commander, Strategist.
It's almost time. The new Consul should be arriving from the Castle soon.
It's almost time. The new Consul should be arriving from the Castle soon.
Isurd
Of course. On my way.
Nimue
My, that time already?
Nimue pulls out a pocketwatch-like contraption.
Isurd
Nimue, why are you still using that gizmo?
Taion
(wasn't paying attention)
(wasn't paying attention)
Huh? R-right...!
Nimue gives a soft smile before walking out with Isurd and the soldier.
♫
Agnian troops are running through a large cavern system when Kevesi soldiers fire smoke bombs at them. The Agnians form a circle with their backs to one another.
Agnus soldier
(coughing)
Agnus soldier
(terrified)
(terrified)
I can't see a thing! Sergeant?! Where are you?! Sergeant?!
Agnus sergeant
Wha... What's going on?!
A Kevesi soldier suddenly appears from the smoke and stabs the sergeant in the back, killing him.
Agnus sergeant
Agh!
The other Agnian soldiers are quickly mopped up. One manages to escape from the smoke, but collapses and is killed. Meanwhile, another group of Agnians, including Taion and Nimue, runs to a structure overhanging a river. They look back at the ambush.
Nimue
(ordering)
(ordering)
There should be an exit through the southern water vein.
Head straight for that.
Head straight for that.
Taion
And you, ma'am?
Nimue
We'll hold the line here, keep them occupied.
Taion
(yelling)
(yelling)
Begging your pardon, that's idiocy. And certain death!
Nimue
(half-pleading)
(half-pleading)
Taion...
Taion
You can't...
Nimue walks forward and puts her hands on Taion's shoulders.
Nimue
You all still have a future.
Until the day of your Homecoming...
please, just live.
And here...
Until the day of your Homecoming...
please, just live.
And here...
She puts her pocketwatch in Taion's hand. His eyes widen.
Taion
I-I couldn't...!
I won't! Don't do this, ma'am!
I won't! Don't do this, ma'am!
Nimue
Listen.
I need you to live, Taion.
You must!
Flee for the colony!
I need you to live, Taion.
You must!
Flee for the colony!
She gives him a soft smile, then runs towards the fray with two other soldiers. Taion is left, mouth agape.
Agnian soldier
Taion, get moving! Hurry!
Taion
How?! How can I?!
Agnian soldier
Taion!
The fellow soldier grabs Taion's arm and pulls him towards the edge of the overhang. Taion tries to pull back towards where Nimue ran.
Taion
(screaming)
(screaming)
Ma'am!
The soldier pulls Taion over the overhang, and the two fall into the river and are swept away.
Taion
Ma'am! Nimue!
In the Amphitheater, a spotlight illuminates D onstage.
Consul D
(audibly smirking)
(audibly smirking)
Shouldnt've put so much stock in your Irises, K.
That is what you get!
That is what you get!
Consul B
It's just bad luck. The plan was sound.
If not for the black fog...
If not for the black fog...
Consul D
It's all about the skinfeel.
You've only got eyes up front.
That's why K lost.
Sounds, the air, breathing...
When you can feel all that, you don't need the Iris.
You've only got eyes up front.
That's why K lost.
Sounds, the air, breathing...
When you can feel all that, you don't need the Iris.
A light shines on P across the stage.
Consul P
(sneering)
(sneering)
And for all that, you still slunk back, tail between legs.
Are you forgetting that fact?
Are you forgetting that fact?
O chuckles beside her.
Consul O
He's awful forgetful, isn't he?
D crosses his arms defensively.
Consul D
So? I'm still breathing, ain't I?
I had a ball with them kids, right until I had to scarper.
I had a ball with them kids, right until I had to scarper.
H is illuminated.
Consul H
Excuses are ten a penny.
Consul D
(dangerously softly)
(dangerously softly)
What are you implying...?
Consul
(politely)
(politely)
'Scuse me?
The short Consul that appeared with D, J, walks onstage.
Consul J
Is this a private party, or can I interject?
I was thinking I might head out alone next.
Is that allowed?
I was thinking I might head out alone next.
Is that allowed?
Consul D
You wanna see with your own Iris, eh?
Consul J
Pretty much.
Plus there's Isurd in Colony Lambda, right?
It'll be an extremely amusing situation. Don't you think?
Yeah. We'll have fun. I'm sure.
Plus there's Isurd in Colony Lambda, right?
It'll be an extremely amusing situation. Don't you think?
Yeah. We'll have fun. I'm sure.
The other Consuls nod, and their spotlights shut off. J turns away, and his shuts off too.
Smoldering Cammuravi[edit]
Bolearis
(amicably)
(amicably)
You lot sleep all right?
Noah
Yeah, like a log.
Thanks for the room. You cleaned it out just for us?
Thanks for the room. You cleaned it out just for us?
Bolearis
Don't sweat it.
Just a token from us higher-ups.
My Iris's Clock...
Just a token from us higher-ups.
My Iris's Clock...
The camera cuts to outside, where a group of Hoxes are milling.
Bolearis
I couldn't quite believe it.
...So, I went outside. Hunted down a Hox as a test.
...So, I went outside. Hunted down a Hox as a test.
Noah
And?
Bolearis
(chuckling)
(chuckling)
Noah
Yeah. We were baffled too, at first.
Bolearis
Anyway, we're all thankful to you.
Flame Clocks don't work so good when you're Dirt.
Hated having to worry about when my number might be up.
Flame Clocks don't work so good when you're Dirt.
Hated having to worry about when my number might be up.
Lanz
Wait, Dirt...? I thought Ethel's rank was Silver?
It was when she saved our hides, wasn't it?
It was when she saved our hides, wasn't it?
Bolearis
(smiling ironically)
(smiling ironically)
Well. Snuff happens.
Cammuravi... Heard of him?
Cammuravi... Heard of him?
The scene's visuals change to a battlefield. Cammuravi is fighting Ethel, both in a bipedal Ferronis.
Bolearis
Call him the "Smoldering".
The greatest warrior in all of Agnus.
The commander loves to spar with the guy.
The greatest warrior in all of Agnus.
The commander loves to spar with the guy.
Mio
I know him.
They say his spear technique is unparalleled; that and he's an ace Ferronis pilot.
Wow... So Cammuravi and Ethel were rivals...
They say his spear technique is unparalleled; that and he's an ace Ferronis pilot.
Wow... So Cammuravi and Ethel were rivals...
On the battlefield, Bolearis and Colony 4 are standing at attention, out of the danger zone. Cammuravi's troops are doing the same across the field.
Bolearis
That's right. We've fought against him who knows how many times now.
Took our share of damage... But then, so did they.
One time, one of his Ferronis's knee joints blew clean out.
Took our share of damage... But then, so did they.
One time, one of his Ferronis's knee joints blew clean out.
As Cammuravi locks blades with Ethel, his Ferronis's right knee buckles and he falls off-balance. Ethel immediately takes advantage, dealing a crippling blow to the Ferronis. Cammuravi crawls out of the cockpit, and Ethel points one of her Ferronis's swords at him.
Bolearis
Most likely, it was a failure of maintenance.
The commander could've ended it then and there.
The commander could've ended it then and there.
Ethel stands outside her Ferronis's cockpit, sword still pointed at Cammuravi.
Bolearis
But no...
Back in the present, Ethel walks up to the conversation.
Ethel
(dryly)
(dryly)
Telling other people's tales again? Not very endearing.
Cut it out.
Cut it out.
Bolearis
C-Commander?!
A-apologies, ma'am...
A-apologies, ma'am...
Ethel
(scoff) I'm joking.
Noah
Ethel.
Ethel turns to the party.
Ethel
It became a tremendous scandal.
The Castle stripped our colony of our Silver rank,
demoting us to Dirt.
But look.
The Castle stripped our colony of our Silver rank,
demoting us to Dirt.
But look.
They look around at where the Colony 4 troops are going about their duties.
Ethel
They were made the lowest of the low... and still they chose to stick by me.
Even though it meant having to live day to day...
That is why I must prevail.
Over him.
Even though it meant having to live day to day...
That is why I must prevail.
Over him.
Mio
Huh? But, you're...
Ethel
Free from the yoke of the Flame Clock, yes certainly.
However, this is another matter.
However, this is another matter.
Noah
What is it about, then?
Ethel
Hunger. Pride. Desire. Joy, maybe...
It's a little hard to put into words...
But something along those lines.
I haven't all the time in the world.
It's a little hard to put into words...
But something along those lines.
I haven't all the time in the world.
Ethel's term mark is almost fully grey.
Ethel
And my troops understand this full well.
For me...
well, all of us, really...
a rematch with Cammuravi is everything.
And that...will give purpose to the remainder of our lives.
For me...
well, all of us, really...
a rematch with Cammuravi is everything.
And that...will give purpose to the remainder of our lives.
Mio
(considering her words)
(considering her words)
A purpose...to life...
Taion
Right, OK... On an emotional level, I could understand.
Eunie
Wow, really?
Taion
I didn't say I agreed. I just see her point of view, that's all.
Ethel
(exhaling)
(exhaling)
All right now. Let's put a pin in the philosophizing.
When we talked last night, you said your destination was...Swordmarch, as I recall?
When we talked last night, you said your destination was...Swordmarch, as I recall?
Noah
Right.
Ethel
Come along.
She and Bolearis walk off to the Commander's room.
Journey to the City[edit]
Ethel and the party are looking at a map of Aionios on their Irises. A spot is highlighted to the northeast.
Ethel
This right here is Swordmarch.
Well, that part is common knowledge, I suppose.
To get there, you have a few possible routes.
Well, that part is common knowledge, I suppose.
To get there, you have a few possible routes.
A spot to the west indicates the current location; two paths join it to Swordmarch, one to either side of a significant hole in the centre of the map.
Ethel
Mainly, the northern and the southern.
And then, the direct route, cutting through the ocean vortex.
And then, the direct route, cutting through the ocean vortex.
A third path passes directly through the void.
Taion
(surprised)
(surprised)
You don't say...
That works?
That works?
Ethel
Nobody's done it before.
Eunie
(unimpressed)
(unimpressed)
Such a tease...
The scene shows a Ferronis passing near a giant storm in the ocean, and getting ripped apart.
Ethel
You can try to approach it from sea or from air,
but soon as you're close to it, you'll end up being ripped to shreds.
Trust me, it's not just the waves and the wind.
We believe there's some other force at play there.
And so...
but soon as you're close to it, you'll end up being ripped to shreds.
Trust me, it's not just the waves and the wind.
We believe there's some other force at play there.
And so...
The middle path vanishes from the map.
Ethel
Through elimination then, these two.
And quite frankly, I wouldn't advise going north.
And quite frankly, I wouldn't advise going north.
The northern path turns red.
Noah
Why's that?
Ethel
The road's dangerous, and it runs right past Agnus Castle territory.
You'd have a hard time getting through.
You'd have a hard time getting through.
Sena
Taion, turns out you were right!
Taion
(smugly)
(smugly)
As always.
Ethel
Additionally, you are Ouroboros.
If you face another Colony, you may find the same thing happening as did with us.
If you face another Colony, you may find the same thing happening as did with us.
Lanz
I'd feel safe betting on it.
Ethel
If you go south, the battle lines are relatively fixed.
If you can proceed along this route,
you'll get there in about two months.
If you can proceed along this route,
you'll get there in about two months.
Mio
(to herself)
(to herself)
Two months...
Noah sighs.
Ethel
(cheerless)
(cheerless)
But...
Sena
But? There's more?
Ethel
Even if you reach the Sword...
This... "City", yes?
It's hard to believe you would find it there. It seems far-fetched.
This... "City", yes?
It's hard to believe you would find it there. It seems far-fetched.
Noah
How so...?
Ethel
Once, we had to advance across this region ourselves. It was empty.
Nothing but the Sword piercing the landscape.
And then... There's that word you mentioned, "City". What could that possibly mean?
Is it a person? Or a thing?
Nothing but the Sword piercing the landscape.
And then... There's that word you mentioned, "City". What could that possibly mean?
Is it a person? Or a thing?
Eunie
When Guernica talked about it, it sounded kinda like a colony...?
Lanz
Uh? I was pretty sure it was an object...
Ethel
Will you still go there?
Regardless?
Regardless?
Noah
Yeah... That was the idea.
For a chance to live on.
For a chance to live on.
Ethel thinks for a moment.
Ethel
Then there's no more to say.
Bolearis.
Bolearis.
Bolearis
Ma'am!
Ethel
Our guests will be leaving soon.
Let's give them any assistance we can.
Let's give them any assistance we can.
Bolearis
(enthusiastically)
(enthusiastically)
No worries!
Ethel
Feel free to use the facilities here at your leisure.
Get ready for what's ahead.
Get ready for what's ahead.
Later, Mio and Sena are at the canteen. Soldiers are eyeing them suspiciously.
Sena
(nervously)
(nervously)
Uhh, Mimi...?
Mio
(calmly)
(calmly)
Relax. We're just doing what Ethel said. Just using the facilities at our leisure.
You have to eat, else you won't grow.
You have to eat, else you won't grow.
Sena
It's just...
Mio
Don't let them get to you, yeah?
Mio gives her a smile. Sena makes an insecure noise.
Kevesi
Hey.
A Kevesi, Jeremy, walks up to the two, frowning. He holds up an old piece of cloth.
Mio
What is this?
Jeremy
It used to belong to my friend. He always wore it, till last year.
Mio gasps.
Jeremy
(quiet rage)
(quiet rage)
Yes. He died. Fighting against Colony Psi.
You animals killed him.
You animals killed him.
He points at Mio's forehead.
Jeremy
Shot him right here.
Clean through.
Clean through.
Sena
(defensively)
(defensively)
You're wrong! We're actually from Colony Gam-
Mio silences her by holding up her hand, not taking her eyes off Jeremy.
Sena
Mimi, what-?
Mio
If that's what you want, go ahead and shoot.
It's not like I'm a hard target.
It's not like I'm a hard target.
Jeremy
Now we're talking!
He notices Mio's almost-exhausted term mark.
Jeremy
Oh, what? You're nearly done anyway.
Well then, keep your lousy embers.
Die today, or in three months' time... Not much difference.
Well then, keep your lousy embers.
Die today, or in three months' time... Not much difference.
Mio huffs.
Jeremy
(threateningly)
(threateningly)
Ah, just...mind you don't get poisoned before your time's up.
Jeremy walks off. Mio and Sena scowl as he walks away.
Sena
What a jerk! So uncalled for.
Mio
Sena. It's fine.
He was right, we did kill people. Maybe not his friend, but certainly others.
He was right, we did kill people. Maybe not his friend, but certainly others.
Sena
We had no choice!
If we hadn't've, we'd be goners.
If we hadn't've, we'd be goners.
Mio
We had no choice...
Yeah, that was clear, until now.
But not any more.
Right?
Yeah, that was clear, until now.
But not any more.
Right?
Sena
Uh-huh...
Mio looks back at Jeremy.
Mio
There's a chance...we can make amends.
Even if we're misunderstood...
Even if we're misunderstood...
The chef, Laszlo, sets down a heaping tray of food in front of Mio. She makes a confused noise.
Laszlo
(smiling)
(smiling)
On the house. Eat your fill, friend.
Mio
Huh?
Laszlo
We're Dirt rank, remember?
Life ain't easy here, but you did help.
Besides...
You gave us a choice.
The choice not to fight.
Life ain't easy here, but you did help.
Besides...
You gave us a choice.
The choice not to fight.
His expression turns more sober.
Laszlo
Now, we won't have to take others' lives. I've... I've wished for this.
And you made it true.
Thanks for that.
And you made it true.
Thanks for that.
He sets an equally heaping tray of food in front of Sena with a smile. Mio smiles back at him as he walks off.
- For the script of Helping Out, see Helping Out § Dialogue.
No Want of Courage[edit]
- Main article: No Want of Courage/Script
Inescapable Fact[edit]
In the late evening, Mio is alone in a tent, checking her term mark with a hand mirror.
Mio
(quietly, to herself)
(quietly, to herself)
Another bit...thinner, I think...
Sena walks in, sighing in contentment.
Sena
Best bath ever.
Mm? You takin' a dip, Mimi? It's nice and warm!
Mm? You takin' a dip, Mimi? It's nice and warm!
Mio
Uh, I might skip today. It wasn't really a sweaty one...
Sena
Whaaaat?! How can you miss a hot bath opportunity?
Then again, I guess when you smell so nice already, maybe it's no problem.
Are you, um...embarrassed about other people seeing you?
There's no need to be!
Miss Ethel thought of everything. She even managed to give us a window when the bath'd be empty.
Then again, I guess when you smell so nice already, maybe it's no problem.
Are you, um...embarrassed about other people seeing you?
There's no need to be!
Miss Ethel thought of everything. She even managed to give us a window when the bath'd be empty.
Mio
Ah, yes.
I did know that.
I did know that.
Mio turns away, looking none too happy. Sena's face falls.
Mio
(facing away)
(facing away)
I guess maybe I will take...a dip.
Sena
(grinning again)
(grinning again)
Attagirl!
Mio
Mm, OK. Don't wait for me.
Sena
All right, then. Have a good one!
Mio leaves the tent.
Sena
And g'nite!
Mio
(trailing off)
(trailing off)
Yeah, good night, Sena.
Mio walks off. Once out of eyeshot, she stops, sighs, and looks up at the moon. Its phase has changed noticeably from the first night.
On the Road Again[edit]
The party is talking to Ethel in the Consul's room.
Ethel
I have to ask, before you go.
Why is it that you stick together?
Why is it that you stick together?
Lanz
Given what's what, we pretty much have to.
Taion
Considering how everybody attacks us on sight now...
Noah
At this point, I suppose... it just panned out this way.
Ethel
You really think so?
That's not really how it looks to me.
That's not really how it looks to me.
Noah
Well, one thing's for sure.
We were sworn enemies once. And yet, we all share the will to live in the now.
Before becoming Ouroboros, I never realized.
But that common will, it was reason enough to stick together.
We were sworn enemies once. And yet, we all share the will to live in the now.
Before becoming Ouroboros, I never realized.
But that common will, it was reason enough to stick together.
Ethel
I see...
Not everyone makes the choice to fight willingly.
Lanz said that you "have to".
Well, right now every one of us has to.
There's no question it would be better if they didn't.
Your journey may have started out of necessity,
but now, you're pushing forwards towards a common goal.
And that...
That might be all we want, and all that we wish the world could be.
Not everyone makes the choice to fight willingly.
Lanz said that you "have to".
Well, right now every one of us has to.
There's no question it would be better if they didn't.
Your journey may have started out of necessity,
but now, you're pushing forwards towards a common goal.
And that...
That might be all we want, and all that we wish the world could be.
Ethel and Noah smile slightly.
Mio
(What we wish...it could be...?)
Outside, the party head towards the Colony's main gate. Ethel and Bolearis are there too.
Noah
You're heading out as well?
Ethel
As soon as we're done here, I'll make for the Castle.
Noah
What?!
Ethel
You forget, I am the commander.
We haven't revolted against our nation, so... I have to report in.
We haven't revolted against our nation, so... I have to report in.
Noah
Ethel, are you sure?
Ethel
Oh, don't worry. I'll be leaving you out of it.
Noah
That's not it. The Consul earlier turned Moebius.
Were it to...
Were it to...
Ethel
If you mean that monster, I'm well aware of the risk.
Noah
Then why?
Ethel crosses her arms.
Ethel
Because it's my responsibility to those I command.
As for the Consul, we can say he died in an accident.
As for the Consul, we can say he died in an accident.
Lanz
And you can't do it remotely?
Ethel
Now that the Consul and Flame Clock are both lost to us, I have to make a report, and not over comms.
I have to requisition more supplies, too.
I have to requisition more supplies, too.
Noah
And what if... What if they fit you with a new Clock?
Ethel
(nonchalantly)
(nonchalantly)
Hah... I can worry about that then.
Lanz
You're fine with it? Really?
Ethel
Don't get preoccupied with us.
Keep to your path. Follow it, wherever it may lead you.
Life is short.
Keep to your path. Follow it, wherever it may lead you.
Life is short.
Noah
(dissatisfied)
(dissatisfied)
I suppose.
Ethel
Hey. While we're all still here, one more word of warning.
Noah
Hm?
Ethel
The Consul was attempting to remove you from the picture.
In light of that, you'll likely come up against hostility.
But listen. You should keep engagement to a minimum.
Keves, or Agnus. That goes for both of them.
In light of that, you'll likely come up against hostility.
But listen. You should keep engagement to a minimum.
Keves, or Agnus. That goes for both of them.
Mio
But... If we break their Clocks, just like with Colony 4 here,
they would... Well, they would be free, wouldn't they?
they would... Well, they would be free, wouldn't they?
Ethel
You'd do well to remember not everyone thinks the same as I do.
Even within this colony,
many still haven't come to accept their new reality.
Even within this colony,
many still haven't come to accept their new reality.
Sena
Ah...
Sena thinks back to their encounter with Jeremy.
Ethel
To make things even more fraught,
in other colonies,
there are those who are more than willing to fight...as you'd expect.
in other colonies,
there are those who are more than willing to fight...as you'd expect.
Taion
So it's no use appealing to their sense of compassion or hoping they'll treat us fairly, is that it?
Mio looks slightly unimpressed.
Ethel
Yes, precisely.
You will change the fate of others, just by virtue of coming into contact with them.
It's quite the burden. You may not want the responsibility.
You will change the fate of others, just by virtue of coming into contact with them.
It's quite the burden. You may not want the responsibility.
Noah
A burden...? Perhaps...
Ethel
All that said, you get embers on your coat, you have to brush them off.
If push comes to shove, do not flinch.
Do whatever it takes. For the greater good.
I wish you all a smooth and fruitful journey.
If push comes to shove, do not flinch.
Do whatever it takes. For the greater good.
I wish you all a smooth and fruitful journey.
The party nods and heads off into the wilderness, leaving Ethel alone with Bolearis.
Ethel
(slightly regretful)
(slightly regretful)
Ouroboros, huh...?
If only...we could have been there as well...
If only...we could have been there as well...
Interlink[edit]
The party is taking a break on the Ribbi Flats. Sena is sitting with Mio.
Sena
Meanies...
Mio
What was that, Sena?
Sena
It's just, I was up all night thinking.
Those guys are so selfish.
Those guys are so selfish.
Mio
Selfish how...?
Sena
You know what I mean!
Every time we Interlink, they're the ones taking the lead!
And me? All I do is watch...
Every time we Interlink, they're the ones taking the lead!
And me? All I do is watch...
Mio
Ohh, that's what you mean.
Sena
Tell me you don't think so too?
Mio
Maybe not "selfish", but like...
"Hey, why didn't you move that way?!", and stuff like that, yeah...
"Hey, why didn't you move that way?!", and stuff like that, yeah...
Sena
Yeah, right?!
Mio
So you'd prefer to take the reins?
Sena looks at the ground with a determined expression.
Sena
I just wanna do more!
Like, pull my weight... Y'know?
Like, pull my weight... Y'know?
Mio
Hahah, that's so you, Sena.
I think it's probably fine, though.
They're just being protective, I think.
I think it's probably fine, though.
They're just being protective, I think.
They look over to Noah talking with Riku.
Sena
Like what Noah said? Yeah.
Mio
I wouldn't worry about it. I'm sure we'll get our turn.
Sena
You sure?
Mio
Yeah. Positive.
The Kind Right Hand[edit]
- Main article: The Kind Right Hand/Script
What Lies Beyond Old Age[edit]
Along the Rae-Bel Tableland, the party passes a group of Armuidae. One is visibly very young.
Noah
That's funny. I'd never noticed that before...
Mio
Oh, do they...not have Armus where you're from?
Noah
Yeah...
I meant "getting old". Is that what that is?
I meant "getting old". Is that what that is?
Noah looks at a baby Armu next to a grown Armu and Ardun, and remembers Guernica's words.
Guernica
It's called getting old, this.
Noah
That smaller Armu over there. It starts little, but grows over time.
Becomes like the bigger one. All the creatures do it... But we never change that much.
Becomes like the bigger one. All the creatures do it... But we never change that much.
Mio
Huh...
Noah
(surprised at himself)
(surprised at himself)
It's such a basic fact. So why haven't we realized it before...?
Consul N
Realization leads to hope... Which in due time turns to despair.
The significance of the stasis is driven ever deeper within...
The significance of the stasis is driven ever deeper within...
Consul Y
A moment in time. A sublime experience.
That brilliance, it shines ascendant over all else.
That brilliance, it shines ascendant over all else.
Consul X
That's why it takes so much frickin' work.
Working stinks...
Working stinks...
Z
They all learn sooner or later.
They learn how priceless it was, how grossly irreplaceable.
The "Eclipse" grows near...
They learn how priceless it was, how grossly irreplaceable.
The "Eclipse" grows near...
Both eyes of Z, X, and Y glow with the Moebius's Iris. N's right eye does too, but not his left eye. The projector screen focuses on Mio's term mark.
Meanwhile, Mio and Noah are blissfully unaware that they're being watched.
Meanwhile, Mio and Noah are blissfully unaware that they're being watched.
Mio
They get along nice... Must be good friends.
Noah
It's funny. Just looking at these guys... It puts your mind at ease.
Mio
Mhm!
Noah
Is it...an effect of becoming Ouroboros?
Mio
Good question.
Still, I think I could...get used to this.
Still, I think I could...get used to this.
Noah
Yeah... Me too.
Saffronia Tree[edit]
The party passes a Saffronia tree. Taion stops and walks underneath it.
Noah
Did you find something?
Taion
Hm? No...
Just brings me back a bit...
It reminded me of someone.
Just brings me back a bit...
It reminded me of someone.
Noah
Oh yeah?
In a flashback, the younger Taion is talking with Nimue and holding a picture of a location covered in Saffronias.
Taion
What is this?
Nimue
A Saffronia.
Taion
I know that. But I've never seen one in such full bloom before.
Nimue
Heh. It's special.
Taion
(huh?)
(huh?)
So, why give this to me?
Nimue
It's a treasure of mine.
Nimue has a solemn look.
Nimue
I'd like to go back someday. To where this was taken...
It's a dream I have.
It's a dream I have.
Taion considers her words. Nimue pulls out her pocketwatch.
Nimue
Not that l[1] have all that much time to spare.
But soon...
But soon...
Back in the present, a Mondo flits around Taion's head.
Taion
...(sigh) She was the one who taught me strategy... Who taught me how to fight using the Mondo.
Taion spends another moment looking up at the Saffronia, then looks down.
Taion
Sorry...
Noah
Not to worry.
Taion
(mostly to himself)
(mostly to himself)
But why...? Why did she show me that picture...?
Noah
I suppose she wanted to share it with you. The memory.
Taion
Is that...why she...?
Noah
You know... It's not unheard of.
Taion
Huh...?
Noah puts a hand on Taion's shoulder as he walks off back to the group. Taion spends another second reflecting, then walks off as well.
Meanwhile, an aerial view of the party is being shown to Isurd via Iris.
Meanwhile, an aerial view of the party is being shown to Isurd via Iris.
Isurd
(taken aback)
(taken aback)
These soldiers...
Taion?!
Taion?!
Isurd shuts off the image and turns to where J is in the room with him.
Isurd
(not liking this)
(not liking this)
These are your targets...sir?
J walks right up to Isurd.
Consul J
Yep. You'll handle it, right?
Isurd
And it's...
because they're consorting with enemy soldiers?
If that's so, shouldn't we question them first?
because they're consorting with enemy soldiers?
If that's so, shouldn't we question them first?
Consul J
Ugh, you're a hell of a stickler, aren't you?
I could just go and do it the K way...
I could just go and do it the K way...
J's Iris shines. The light leaves Isurd's eyes, and his left eye glows red, like that of the controlled soldiers. After a couple seconds, J's Iris stops.
Consul J
Ugh...forget it.
There's just no zest.
There's just no zest.
Isurd's eye stops glowing, and the light returns. J walks away.
Consul J
This time, I'm gonna take a different angle.
Isurd
C-Consul...?
Consul J
Heh. Let's do this, Isurd.
To Isurd's shock, J curls up, and power starts emanating from him.
Consul J
Go on, spill it for me...
Gimme all you're feeling, deep inside!
Gimme all you're feeling, deep inside!
Power radiates from J. Isurd shields his eyes before he is enveloped by the glow.
My Other Husk[edit]
The party is crossing Old Kana Battlefield. Long-dead Kevesi husks, Ferronis, and Levnis parts litter the landscape.
Noah
This is awful...
Mio
It doesn't look recent.
Been here a while.
And the battle, it must've been massive.
Been here a while.
And the battle, it must've been massive.
Taion
It's not just infantry. I see Ferronis wreckage strewn all over.
Lanz
There could be stuff here we can reuse. We should look.
Noah
Yeah, good idea. Let's split up and have a look around.
They do so. Eunie goes alone.
Eunie
(to herself)
(to herself)
"Stuff we can reuse", my wings... All this junk is rusted through...
Huh?
Huh?
She notices and picks up a part from a power frame.
Eunie
Ugh, no love. The connector's the wrong size...
The part is tossed away. From across the field, she notices a husk in a kneeling position and walks over.
Eunie
This one's Kevesi...
You've been here for...quite a while...
You've been here for...quite a while...
She checks the nametag on the dead soldier's front.
Eunie's Iris
[Name: Eunie]
[Affiliation: Colony 18]
[Class: Sharpshooter]
[Affiliation: Colony 18]
[Class: Sharpshooter]
Eunie
(horrified)
(horrified)
Wha-what is this-?!
Wh-why is my name on here?!
Wh-why is my name on here?!
Eunie has a sudden flashback of a struggle at Old Kana Battlefield — running with other Kevesi soldiers, a Moebius firing bolts in all directions, destruction all around, Eunie struggling to get up, the Moebius bearing down on her, a talon about to go through her head — before Lanz's voice brings her back to the present with a start.
Lanz
...Eunie...
Eunie!
Did you find anything worthwhile?
Eunie!
Did you find anything worthwhile?
Eunie
Huh?!
Lanz
I said, didja find anything we might be able to salvage?
Eunie
(failing to keep her voice steady)
(failing to keep her voice steady)
N-nope! Nothing at all... Not here.
Lanz
(none the wiser)
(none the wiser)
Seriously? You were here all frozen, so I figured you must've struck something gold...
He moves over to a Levnis part.
Lanz
C'mon, help me shift this thing here, wouldja?
Eunie
Y-yeah, all right!
Eunie gets up and slowly walks over to where Lanz is. Along the way, she pauses and looks back at her husk, its face frozen in the fear of its last moment. It's visibly Eunie.
Eunie
(to herself)
(to herself)
Uh-uh... No way that was me.
She looks at the name tag in her hand.
Eunie
Just...someone with the same name as me... A coincidence...
A bit of time has passed.
Noah
Hey! Over here!
Noah is looking at the remains of the Flame Clock.
Mio
Uh...it's...
A golden Flame Clock... But wrecked.
I've never seen one.
A golden Flame Clock... But wrecked.
I've never seen one.
Taion
A real golden Flame Clock...
Lanz
Ain't that strange?
We're talkin' Gold rank - the shiny pinnacle of every Colony's ambition.
And this is how we find it?
We're talkin' Gold rank - the shiny pinnacle of every Colony's ambition.
And this is how we find it?
Eunie
It's, uh...Kevesi, isn't it?
Noah
Yeah. Has to be.
Taion looks around.
Taion
For all that, I'm not seeing any Agnian corpses or weapons.
What does it mean...?
What does it mean...?
Noah
Sparks... How could they have ended up this way...?
They're interrupted by the ground rumbling.
Eunie
Aw, come on. Not a-sparkin'-gain?!
An Agnian Levnis bursts out of the ground. The party draw weapons and engage.
Colony Lambda's Levnises[edit]
The party has defeated the Levnis.
Lanz
What a faff, just one stray Levnis?
Barely worth the effort...
Barely worth the effort...
Noah
Yeah... Doesn't seem to be what did this Colony in.
Taion
(to himself)
(to himself)
I see... It was revenge...?
Commander, you did it...
Commander, you did it...
Lanz
So this...works on its own?
Taion
Yes. That's a standard Castle-issue autonomous sentry Levnis.
It doesn't need human operators.
It doesn't need human operators.
Mio looks at the symbol on the Levnis's armour.
Mio
Hey, this symbol... It's Lambda's, right?
Sena
Huh? Taion, weren't you with-
Taion furrows his brow.
Taion
(tense)
(tense)
We need to get away from here.
Though it was unmanned, it's sure to have transmitted its combat data to the Colony.
They might even be able to work out we're the ones it was fighting.
Though it was unmanned, it's sure to have transmitted its combat data to the Colony.
They might even be able to work out we're the ones it was fighting.
Lanz
Right...
Well, don't reckon there's anything more of use here.
Let's go, Noah.
Well, don't reckon there's anything more of use here.
Let's go, Noah.
Noah
Gotcha.
Mio?
Mio?
Mio
Mm.
They walk away. Eunie takes a couple seconds, lost in thought and trying to still her shaky hands. Taion notices.
Taion
Eunie...?
Approaching Seilas Terrace Camp[edit]
Taion
Everybody, listen up.
We've entered Colony Lambda's territory. That means that the probability of our encountering Agnus forces is very high.
Before we get any closer to their patrolled zone, we should prepare ourselves by resting.
We've entered Colony Lambda's territory. That means that the probability of our encountering Agnus forces is very high.
Before we get any closer to their patrolled zone, we should prepare ourselves by resting.
Noah
No objections here.
Mio
Or here. Let's go with Taion's plan!
Eunie's Nightmare[edit]
The sun has set, and a campfire is crackling. Taion is preparing tea; Riku, Manana, and Mio are sleeping; Sena and Lanz are performing maintenance on their weapons; Noah is practicing sword swings; and Eunie is sitting by the fire, drifting off.
In Eunie's dream, the full scene from her earlier flashbacks are shown. Eunie runs with Kevesi soldiers towards a Moebius similar to the one in the party's first encounter. The Moebius leaps up and shoots bolts from its body in all directions, destroying Levnises and killing troops around Eunie. The Moebius lands and sprints towards the Ferronis, killing soldiers along its path. Exploding Levnises catch others in the blasts. The Moebius jumps onto the Ferronis and slices off the "head" in seconds, casually hanging on as it falls in flames directly towards Eunie. When she comes to, her surroundings are filled with smoke, fire, and twisted metal. Eunie struggles to her feet, coughing and spluttering. The Moebius steps right in front of her, and she falls to her knees, paralysed in fear; the Moebius points a talon at her face, and inches it closer and closer to her eyeball.
Eunie awakens from her nightmare with a start.
Eunie awakens from her nightmare with a start.
Looking around, her friends are all as they were, unaware. Sena looks at Eunie for a second before returning to her work. Eunie looks at her shaking hand; from over her shoulder, Taion wordlessly offers her a mug of tea.
Eunie
Oh, thank you...
Eunie takes it, hands still trembling. Taion sits next to her and the two take sips.
Eunie
Smells good.
Taion
Obviously.
It's a Sirius Anemone.
A rare flower from the Urayan mountains, crushed and extracted.
It's a Sirius Anemone.
A rare flower from the Urayan mountains, crushed and extracted.
Eunie
Wow, look at you. Sounds like a hobby.
Taion
Hmph... And a practical one, at that.
Eunie
Yeah...
Taion looks over at Eunie's hands. They've stopped shaking.
Taion
Like I said, practical.
Glad it worked.
Glad it worked.
Eunie
Ah!
You noticed?
You noticed?
Taion
I did.
Mine do that too.
Mine do that too.
Eunie
Uh?
Taion
I put down my weapon, look around at my companions and feel relief.
Noah is still practicing; Lanz and Sena are also now practicing their swings.
Taion
Thinking "finally, another day down".
Then I think of tomorrow and the tremors are back.
Will I see the same faces when I wake...?
Will I even be around to see them...? Hah.
Then I think of tomorrow and the tremors are back.
Will I see the same faces when I wake...?
Will I even be around to see them...? Hah.
Eunie
Easier with the mark, I s'pose. You know when it's coming.
But when you're in a scrap...
But when you're in a scrap...
Taion
Can you really speak for them, though? For someone nearing the end?
Eunie
Huh?
Taion
Because I couldn't tell you.
All we can possibly do is wonder what it's like.
What can one feel? Contentment, perhaps...? Or sheer horror...?
All we can possibly do is wonder what it's like.
What can one feel? Contentment, perhaps...? Or sheer horror...?
Eunie
I'd really hope it's...not fear.
Taion looks at the term mark on his palm.
Taion
Me too.
That's just it...
That's just it...
He stands and looks over at Mio, and the term mark on her neck.
The next morning, the party look at a map of the area via Iris.
The next morning, the party look at a map of the area via Iris.
Lanz
Shouldn't we just hoof it and blitz through as quick as we can?
Eunie
(herself again)
(herself again)
Nah, I reckon we ought to avoid spots where those Moebius sickos could get the jump on us.
Taion
Unless I'm mistaken...
This region is under the control of Lambda. That is the Colony I originally belonged to.
This region is under the control of Lambda. That is the Colony I originally belonged to.
Noah
You don't say!
Mio
Then... The Levnis yesterday...?
Taion
Yeah. It was Colony Lambda's, definitely.
Sena
Isn't that... Isn't that bad for us?
Taion looks down with a "hmmm", deep in thought.
Eunie
All right, so you know this area?
Taion
(not proud)
(not proud)
I took part in... seizing this area.
Mio
All right then, any suggestions?
Taion
Oh, er...
Mio
Come on.
Taion
(stuttering)
(stuttering)
Let's see... There should be some nearby tunnels we could use.
Lanz
Sounds good to me. We might still get enemies,
but underground, at least we won't have to worry about lunking Ferronises and that.
but underground, at least we won't have to worry about lunking Ferronises and that.
Riku
Tunnels! Thrill of explore!
Riku already on treasure-scent!
Riku already on treasure-scent!
Manana
Ohohohoho!
Noah
Seems like that's the way to go then.
Taion
(stutter) One moment.
These tunnels have been disused for a long time. There's a very real risk of a cave-in.
If it comes down to it, escape options may also be in short supply...
These tunnels have been disused for a long time. There's a very real risk of a cave-in.
If it comes down to it, escape options may also be in short supply...
Lanz
Nah, nah, nah. You're the one who came out with it.
Unless, you got any other plans?
You better not want us to just camp out here forever.
Unless, you got any other plans?
You better not want us to just camp out here forever.
Taion
No, obviously...
Mio
All right, let's back it up!
Any route we can take will have some attendant risk or other.
At this point, I'll settle for any choice that makes our lives easier.
Enough with the doom-mongering.
Just keep it positive. Things'll work out somehow.
Any route we can take will have some attendant risk or other.
At this point, I'll settle for any choice that makes our lives easier.
Enough with the doom-mongering.
Just keep it positive. Things'll work out somehow.
Sena
Mimi, what's up with you?
Eunie
(sarcastically amused)
(sarcastically amused)
Sounds like little Miss Senior's decided to pull rank, eh?
Roger that, ma'am!
Roger that, ma'am!
Mio
(not amused)
(not amused)
Oh shut up already.
Noah
Right, let's go.
We'll check out those tunnels.
We'll check out those tunnels.
Mio
Hey, wait for me!
What Doesn't Kill You...[edit]
The party is walking towards the Urayan Tunnels. Taion walks beside Lanz.
Taion
I envy you.
Lanz
Whuh?
Taion
That unfounded confidence of yours. I almost wish I could take some.
Lanz
(mirthlessly)
(mirthlessly)
I'd rather do something than sit farting about for hours, and then do nothing anyway. I like my way better.
Taion
That sounded rather pointed.
Lanz
(knowing full well it did)
(knowing full well it did)
Oh, did it?
Lanz
Anyway, I'm not confident.
I just...have to keep moving.
That's all.
I just...have to keep moving.
That's all.
Taion
I don't get you.
Lanz
I mean yourself, why d'you always take a back seat?
Taion
Whuh?
Lanz
You scared?
Taion makes an unsure noise. Lanz continues after a pause.
Lanz
Noah, he... He likes to say, "Don't blame yourself".
He knows why I can't stay still, and he gets it, all right.
Tells me it's not healthy, yeah?
But it's easier said.
Anyhow, not like I can just wish him back.
He knows why I can't stay still, and he gets it, all right.
Tells me it's not healthy, yeah?
But it's easier said.
Anyhow, not like I can just wish him back.
Lanz's voice comes close to breaking.
Lanz
I mean, what else can I do?
S'how it goes. Same deal with you, right?
S'how it goes. Same deal with you, right?
Taion
Uh...
Lanz
(more lighthearted)
(more lighthearted)
Eh, to be fair...
That whole prudent schtick of yours? Got its merits!
That whole prudent schtick of yours? Got its merits!
Taion
(confused)
(confused)
That's the opposite of what you said before.
Lanz
I guess I'm taking it back, then! Bahahaha!
Taion shakes his head, but looks less glum than before.
A Nopon's Counsel[edit]
- Main article: A Nopon's Counsel/Script
Poison Smoke Trap[edit]
As the party walks through the Urayan Tunnels, soldiers fire shots which explode into clouds of purple, sight-obscuring smoke around the party.
Lanz
What the-?! Smokescreen?!
Riku covers his nose.
Riku
It smell weird!
This not just normal smoke!
This not just normal smoke!
The others follow suit, their backs to one another. Noah sees the red trace of an Iris through the smoke and only barely manages to block a blow from an Agnian Duoblade. The attacker retreats into the obscuring fog. Everyone else draws their weapons.
Noah
They're hiding in the smoke!
More red traces circle the party. Mio's ears pick something up.
Mio
More incoming!
Mio steps in front of Eunie to defend an attack from another Agnian, but she suddenly stops moving.
Mio
Huh? My legs?!
Unable to dodge properly, the Duoblade's attack knocks Mio down.
Sena
Mimi!
Sena swipes the attacker away and helps Mio up as more Agnians engage. Some shoot more smoke bombs at the party, which Lanz blocks.
Lanz
This smoke... Don't breathe it in!
Lanz fires back on the attackers as Eunie covers his rear. The party continues to block and counterattack periodic strikes as they speak.
Eunie
Who the spark are they?!
Manana
Soldiers from Agnus, duh!
Taion
I...I know this maneuver...!
Noah
What is it?
Taion
One of Colony 13's little specialties.
Taion recalls his fellow soldiers being cut down by Kevesi through smoke in the same tunnels.
Lanz
So, you've seen this before?
But wait a mo, these mudders are Agnian!
But wait a mo, these mudders are Agnian!
Taion
(confused)
(confused)
I don't get it... Why this specific tactic...?
Could it be...the commander...?!
Could it be...the commander...?!
More smoke bombs are fired upon the party.
Eunie
This is looking grim...
There's no way to tell where they're gonna come from next!
There's no way to tell where they're gonna come from next!
Taion
(thinking to himself)
(thinking to himself)
Water.
Eunie
Water?
Taion
Yeah.
There are water veins in these caves. We can use them to make an escape.
There are water veins in these caves. We can use them to make an escape.
Eunie
You sayin' make a dash for it?
Taion makes an extremely unsure noise as Agnians encircle the party.
Lanz
(impatiently)
(impatiently)
Taion, decide!
Look, I trust your judgment!
Look, I trust your judgment!
Taion
(surprised)
(surprised)
You do...?
After a moment of consideration, Taion clenches his fist.
Taion
(just firmly enough)
(just firmly enough)
All right... We'll have to run. I judge it to be the best option right now!
Lanz
All I needed to hear. Let's move!
Lead the way!
Lead the way!
Taion
I'm on it.
Taion runs off, with the others close behind.
Use Elevator No.3[edit]
Taion
They read us like an open book... How?!
Mio
No time to worry about that now! We need to make for the water veins.
Enter Mine No.3[edit]
Mio
Gas grenades...? That's hardly fair...!
Eunie
Seriously. Who'd have thought they had anything like that?
Approach the Waterway[edit]
Taion
We're almost at the water veins!
Sena
Better get ready to take the plunge!
Escape[edit]
The party has arrived at the same water vein that Taion used to escape from Colony 13. An advancing cloud of smoke obscures their pursuers.
Taion
This is it.
Eunie
They're here! Can't see 'em, but it's a real welcome party.
Noah and Mio look at each other and nod.
Noah
Time to go! Big breath, then jump!
Reach the Aquifer Exhaust[edit]
Noah
Doesn't look like they can follow us this far with their gear.
Sena
That gives us a little breathing time.
Isurd's Assault[edit]
The Aquifer Exhaust has spat out the party into the Great Cotte Falls. They run across an open field, seemingly with no enemies in sight, but stop when the ground starts to quake.
♫
From behind a nearby waterfall, Colony Lambda's Ferronis hovers out and lands on the ground before the party, kicking up sprays of dirt. Its lights flash on as a throng of Levnises surround the party. From atop the Ferronis, Isurd walks out, left eye aglow with the Moebius lemniscate Iris.
Taion
(eyes widening)
(eyes widening)
I knew it...
Commander Isurd!
Commander Isurd!
Isurd
(forcefully)
(forcefully)
Long time no see, Taion!
Eunie
(softly)
(softly)
That guy...
Eunie remembers Isurd and Taion interacting from the Ouroboros memory space.
Taion
So they got to you too. Commander!
Did they order you to destroy Ouroboros too?
Did they order you to destroy Ouroboros too?
The camera focuses on Isurd's slightly-smirking mouth.
Isurd
Not...exactly.
Taion
Huh...?
Isurd
You must've worked it out.
This strategy...mirrors that day.
When Nimue's life...was cut short!
This strategy...mirrors that day.
When Nimue's life...was cut short!
Rage is plain in Isurd's eyes. Taion looks shocked and worried.
Isurd
I figured you would try to use that route to flee.
That's how I knew to wait right here.
And so I replicated the conditions of that day to a tee.
That's how I knew to wait right here.
And so I replicated the conditions of that day to a tee.
Taion
But why do such a thing?!
Isurd
Why?
Well, let's see... In a nutshell...
To remind you - of your past!
To make you relive it, and drive you to despair!
To break your heart!
To steal all that you hold dear!
To ruin you to your very core!
Well, let's see... In a nutshell...
To remind you - of your past!
To make you relive it, and drive you to despair!
To break your heart!
To steal all that you hold dear!
To ruin you to your very core!
Isurd laughs evilly.
Isurd
That is my revenge!
It's payback for Nimue dying with her wish unfulfilled!
It's your own past!
It's finally caught up with you!
It's payback for Nimue dying with her wish unfulfilled!
It's your own past!
It's finally caught up with you!
Taion sobs slightly as he remembers sorrowfully reporting back to Isurd after the catastrophic confrontation with Colony 13. In the flashback, Isurd's eyes are sympathetic, and he places a hand on Taion's shoulder to comfort him. Taion shows Isurd Nimue's pocketwatch.
Isurd
(gently)
(gently)
Nimue gave it to you, right?
You should hold onto it.
You should hold onto it.
Taion
(audibly falling apart)
(audibly falling apart)
It was...my fault...
My pride led to her death.
If only I'd presented a less reckless plan...
The strategist would never have...
Nimue would...
My pride led to her death.
If only I'd presented a less reckless plan...
The strategist would never have...
Nimue would...
Taion presses the pocketwatch into Isurd's hand.
Taion
(whimper) It- It's too much for me...
I don't...
I don't deserve this...
I don't...
I don't deserve this...
Taion presses the pocketwatch into Isurd's hand, and walks off. Back in the present, Isurd's expression features none of his previous sympathy.
Taion
(just about composed, to himself)
(just about composed, to himself)
It's true... It is my fault...
You were the kindest man I knew, Commander...
You were the kindest man I knew, Commander...
Taion
(now shouting)
(now shouting)
But I made you use the same enemy tactic that cost Nimue her life...
I drove you to...such desperation, and... now...you're determined to kill me...
I drove you to...such desperation, and... now...you're determined to kill me...
Isurd
Precisely right, Taion.
The past...
has come back to haunt you!
The past...
has come back to haunt you!
Isurd walks back into Lambda Ferronis's cockpit.
Unexpected Reunion[edit]
Lambda Ferronis is still standing, but only just.
Isurd
(shouting)
(shouting)
Lay down and die already!
The Ferronis rights itself and shoots lasers in all directions from its body. The party jumps back, dodging and blocking, except for Taion, who stands still.
Taion
(shouting back)
(shouting back)
Commander Isurd...!
Please... Please, stop this now!
Please... Please, stop this now!
Eunie
Taion...
Eunie notices that Taion is making no attempt to dodge and has to tackle him out of harm's way. As they fall towards the shallow water, Taion reaches out towards some of Eunie's dislodged feathers. His Iris flashes with the Ouroboros symbol as he grasps one in his hand, and before they contact the ground, Taion finds himself in the Ouroboros memory space.
As before, the memories of Eunie flash before Taion: Eunie saying "If he hadn't used his powers back there, you'd have been first out of the running!" "A win would've been a nice surprise." "First one they've ever had here, right?" "No time! Look! Above!", Joran's worried "You OK, Eunie?", and Lanz's "Quick, we're gonna miss the Homecoming!" and "Eunie!" Eunie stands vertically inverted from Taion in the same space, hearing the transient voices of Taion and Nimue: "What is this?" "A Saffronia." "So, why give this to me?" "Not that l have all that much time to spare. But soon..."
Their cores combine, and the water ripples and erupts where the two fell.
As before, the memories of Eunie flash before Taion: Eunie saying "If he hadn't used his powers back there, you'd have been first out of the running!" "A win would've been a nice surprise." "First one they've ever had here, right?" "No time! Look! Above!", Joran's worried "You OK, Eunie?", and Lanz's "Quick, we're gonna miss the Homecoming!" and "Eunie!" Eunie stands vertically inverted from Taion in the same space, hearing the transient voices of Taion and Nimue: "What is this?" "A Saffronia." "So, why give this to me?" "Not that l have all that much time to spare. But soon..."
Their cores combine, and the water ripples and erupts where the two fell.
Isurd
What the?!
An Ouroboros form floats high above the water, white and with a flowing-robe-like body. The water erupts all around Lambda Ferronis, and dozens of identical images of the Ouroboros form encircle it. The Agnian soldiers frantically swivel around in confusion.
Isurd
Wh-which one?!
Which one's real?!
Which one's real?!
The Ferronis fires lasers in all directions. Many of them strike the images, causing them to dissipate into singed Mondo.
Isurd
This one?!
Isurd points and fires. The Ouroboros figures fly, twirling in the air as they dodge the lasers for a few seconds before being struck and dissipating.
Isurd
How about here?!
The same happens as Isurd fires in the opposite direction. There's momentary quiet as all the surrounding illusions have disintegrated into paper, until Isurd notices that the final remaining figure is hovering a titanic boulder above the Ferronis. Isurd panics and cowers as the boulder falls towards him, but it never lands — it, too, disintegrates into paper. The party looks around as charred bits of Mondo slowly flutter to the ground.
Isurd
Wha- Another illusion?!
A Mondo floats towards Noah, and he holds out his hand for it. It's noticeably much bigger than Taion's ordinary Mondo, with wing-like protrusions from its head. The Mondo waves at Noah, then jumps off his hand.
Isurd
(infuriated)
(infuriated)
Gh... Playing me for a fool?!
Arrggh, I'll show you a fool!
I'll blow you away, you and all your rustling phantoms!
Arrggh, I'll show you a fool!
I'll blow you away, you and all your rustling phantoms!
As he speaks, Lambda Ferronis's main cannon primes, takes aim at the Ouroboros, and charges.
Lanz
Whoa... Intense...
I can't defend against that...
I can't defend against that...
Sena has a determined expression on her face.
Sena
If Taion took the Ouroboros form...
I can too!
I can too!
She starts running directly at the Ferronis.
Sena
Lanz! Come with me!
Lanz
You insane?!
Sena
Just trust me! Hurry!
Isurd
It's over!
Taion!
Taion!
Sena's Iris glows as she runs, with Lanz right behind.
Sena
Taion, all of you...
I won't let this creep
lay a finger on anyone!
I won't let this creep
lay a finger on anyone!
Sena and Lanz leap into the air together and interlink. Sena hears Garvel's "Quick thinking, Lanz!", Lanz's "Get off me! Had to go and play the hero, didn't he?", Noah's "Come on. He was trying to protect you!", and Joran's "Just stop it!!! No more arguing..." Meanwhile, Lanz hears unknown mocking voices: "Say, why a hammer?" "You gonna hit something or not?" Mio's voice cuts through with "I'm Mio, third term. We...haven't met before...have we?"
The resulting Ouroboros form lands and zips over to one of Lambda Ferronis's legs. It grips both with its hands and with its flanking wings, and its eyes glow as it lifts. With a grunt of exertion and heel jet boosters flaring, Lambda Ferronis is slowly lifted to one side, eliciting a yelp from Isurd. After hoisting the leg into the air, Sena's Ouroboros turns its wings into a giant hammer. Sena yells as the Ouroboros strikes the underside of the leg with enough force to overturn the entire Ferronis.
The resulting Ouroboros form lands and zips over to one of Lambda Ferronis's legs. It grips both with its hands and with its flanking wings, and its eyes glow as it lifts. With a grunt of exertion and heel jet boosters flaring, Lambda Ferronis is slowly lifted to one side, eliciting a yelp from Isurd. After hoisting the leg into the air, Sena's Ouroboros turns its wings into a giant hammer. Sena yells as the Ouroboros strikes the underside of the leg with enough force to overturn the entire Ferronis.
Isurd
No...! Unacceptable!
Lambda Ferronis's cannon shot goes wide as it topples onto its back. The landing sends a shock of water across the battlefield, knocking Agnian soldiers off their feet and almost sweeping Sena's Ouroboros away. The Ferronis isn't done yet — it fires more omnidirectional lasers. The party dodges as hapless Agnian soldiers get hit. Mio and Noah regroup.
Mio
The Flame Clock! It has to go!
The two run off towards the Clock on the overturned Ferronis, dodging laser cannons as they go.
Noah
Embers on coat... Brush them off.
Mio
If push comes to shove, do not flinch!
Noah
Do whatever it takes...!
Noah
Mio
For the greater good!
They Interlink, and the memories of soft-spoken people surround them. An unknown man saying "The dead don't think anything. They don't speak..." "To me, he looked ready to cry." "It's not the notes that matter... It's the feelings you imbue them with." Young Noah's voice interrupts with a shouted "Stop crying, Lanz! It won't change anything!" followed by Riku's "Only way is fight like life depends." Noah hears Mio sounding indignant: "I was top of the rankings, in all the training categories!" "We could be playing our hearts out here, and nobody'd even see us." Her off-seeing partner's voice seemingly responds: "Mio... Is that why you're here, for recognition?" "Is that why you're being an off-seer? For a commendation?"
The Ouroboros form skates along the ground, leaving afterimages as it dodges the laser blasts with ease. It leaps up to dodge five simultaneous shots, and spins before boosting directly towards the Flame Clock.
The Ouroboros form skates along the ground, leaving afterimages as it dodges the laser blasts with ease. It leaps up to dodge five simultaneous shots, and spins before boosting directly towards the Flame Clock.
Mio
Better make it count!
They cancel the Interlink. Noah propels himself off Mio's feet, Lucky Seven already withdrawn.
Noah
I was planning to!
Lambda Ferronis's main cannon fires, but Noah blocks with the gauntlet made with Lucky Seven's sheath. He yells and stabs into the Flame Clock as he lands on it, showering the landscape with red motes.
After a fade to black, the party has regrouped out of Interlink. Isurd stumbles towards them, falling to his knees but getting up, gasping for breath. Taion runs in front of the party, arms open with no weapon.
After a fade to black, the party has regrouped out of Interlink. Isurd stumbles towards them, falling to his knees but getting up, gasping for breath. Taion runs in front of the party, arms open with no weapon.
Taion
(firmly)
(firmly)
Come on... Enough is enough, Commander...
There's no reason for us to be fighting each other.
If you still need a life to satisfy you,
you can have mine.
There's no reason for us to be fighting each other.
If you still need a life to satisfy you,
you can have mine.
Eunie
(what the spark dude?!)
(what the spark dude?!)
Taion?!
Taion
(woefully)
(woefully)
If that helps put your heart at ease...
If it settles the debt I owe Nimue... I'll do it.
If it settles the debt I owe Nimue... I'll do it.
Isurd processes this, then laughs maniacally. After a few seconds, his body and clothing suddenly take on the colour of mud. They remain in Isurd's shape for a split second before collapsing into a puddle on the ground. The party dismisses their weapons in surprise.
Taion
Whuh-?!
C-Commander?!
C-Commander?!
Riku
He turn into mud pie?
The party readies themselves as collecting purple motes herald the apparition of a Consul. It's J; he takes a long moment to look around.
Consul J
(dangerously gentle)
(dangerously gentle)
Have you ever felt so much fondness, that it made you...quiver?
Noah
(gaping)
(gaping)
Huh? That voice...
Mio looks at Noah, then back at J. J begins casually strolling.
Consul J
Long time no see...
You forgot about me...
I missed you...
All these sayings that have to do with time...
They ring so insufferably hollow, when you only have ten years on the clock.
It doesn't feel real.
But, you know?
You forgot about me...
I missed you...
All these sayings that have to do with time...
They ring so insufferably hollow, when you only have ten years on the clock.
It doesn't feel real.
But, you know?
Eunie
No... It can't be...
Consul J
(taking his sweet time)
(taking his sweet time)
Noah...
Eunie...
Riku...
Lanz...
I have to tell you...I'm overwhelmed with emotion!
Eunie...
Riku...
Lanz...
I have to tell you...I'm overwhelmed with emotion!
J removes his mask. The Kevesi trio react with silent shock — it's Joran, looking just like he did as a second-termer.
Noah
Joran!
Joran
(happily?)
(happily?)
Sincerely...
I'm on the verge of tears.
I'm on the verge of tears.
Lanz
Joran...
But you...!
But you...!
Sena
Joran?!
Mio
You know him?
Mio looks at Noah, then hesitates.
Mio
Wait... *I* know him...
Yes, Joran... Amid the rubble and the flames...
Yes, Joran... Amid the rubble and the flames...
Sena
(in realisation)
(in realisation)
He died in a battle with Agnus...
They were all friends.
They were all friends.
Taion
But wait...
How does that work?
How can he be...?!
How does that work?
How can he be...?!
Mio
Assuming the memories we saw were correct...
Sena
Noah...?
Noah offers a shaky breath in response, eyes locked on Joran. Lanz walks towards him.
Lanz
(with a hint of hope)
(with a hint of hope)
Joran!
You're... You're *our* Joran?
Y-you were alive?!
You're... You're *our* Joran?
Y-you were alive?!
Joran
Was I alive?
Hah... Of course not.
I did die on that day! Evidently!
That's why I can be here now!
You can call me J!
Guess what?
I'm a proud member of Moebius now!
Hah... Of course not.
I did die on that day! Evidently!
That's why I can be here now!
You can call me J!
Guess what?
I'm a proud member of Moebius now!
♫
Joran lifts the bangs covering his right eye to reveal the infinity-shaped Iris. Lanz and Noah recoil.
Noah
No...! You can't mean it...?!
Eunie
(shocked)
(shocked)
J-Joran...
Joran
You see, they gave me this incredible power...
I can take...people's memories...
and refashion them into my very own mudpuppets.
I can take...people's memories...
and refashion them into my very own mudpuppets.
Joran bends down and looks at the pile of mud that used to be shaped like Isurd.
Lanz
Mudpuppets...?
Eunie
(angrily)
(angrily)
"Refashion" my wings!
Joran stands back up, teleports behind a nearby Agnian soldier, and stabs him in the back with a whittling knife.
male Agnus soldier
N-not yet... I can still...
The soldier's voice drops unnaturally in pitch as his body turns (returns?) to mud. The party reacts with a mixture of shock and disgust. Joran repeats the process with several more soldiers.
female Agnus soldier
I don't wanna die! Don't make me die here, please!
male Agnus soldier
I told you we shouldn't have come here... You just had to make me...
female Agnus soldier
This is awful... Why are we the ones who have to fight...?
Joran
The body may be mud, but their minds are the real deal.
But without hearts, they're pretty quick to tell you what's on their minds!
But without hearts, they're pretty quick to tell you what's on their minds!
Taion angrily grunts.
Noah
Joran...
Joran continues to stroll around, casually turning Agnian soldiers to mud.
Joran
To be honest...
These nobodies are beneath me.
Noah, Eunie, or Lanz...
*You'd* make good puppets.
What profound and clear-sighted words would your cold lips utter?
I've so wished to hear...
Why did you have to go and become Ouroboros, hm?
Hehehe...
These nobodies are beneath me.
Noah, Eunie, or Lanz...
*You'd* make good puppets.
What profound and clear-sighted words would your cold lips utter?
I've so wished to hear...
Why did you have to go and become Ouroboros, hm?
Hehehe...
Eunie
J-Joran...
You were never like this! What did they do to you?!
You were never like this! What did they do to you?!
Joran's eyes narrow.
Joran
What do you think you knew of me?
Joran
(increasingly excited)
(increasingly excited)
You didn't know anything.
I am only myself, Eunie.
The realest, truest me!
I don't need to hide any more!
I can finally be me!
Becoming Moebius? Best thing that ever happened to me!
I want you to feel it...!
Feel the joy I feel!
Feel my absolute elation!
I am only myself, Eunie.
The realest, truest me!
I don't need to hide any more!
I can finally be me!
Becoming Moebius? Best thing that ever happened to me!
I want you to feel it...!
Feel the joy I feel!
Feel my absolute elation!
Joran's wide eyes have tears in them as he summons his weapon.
Joran's Madness[edit]
The party has fought Joran for some time. Neither side looks worse for wear, but they all sheathe their weapons.
Consul J
Did you get a good taste of it?
Of my elation...?
Of my elation...?
Joran is spreading his arms wide, still teary-eyed. Lanz clenches his fist.
Lanz
(tempestuous)
(tempestuous)
Cut the crap!
What're ya droning on about?!
I don't buy it...
I refuse to believe you're him...!
You aren't our Joran! Joran saved our lives!
What're ya droning on about?!
I don't buy it...
I refuse to believe you're him...!
You aren't our Joran! Joran saved our lives!
The scene enters a full flashback of the Agnian attack on the colony while the Kevesi were young. Noah leads the fleeing group, with Joran, Eunie, and Riku immediately following, and Garvel and Lanz are right behind. All are breathing heavily as they run. A stray shot knocks loose a girder, which falls directly onto Lanz and Garvel, pinning them to the ground.
Noah
Lanz! Garvel!
Eunie
(panicked)
(panicked)
No time! Look! Above!
Eunie holds Noah back from rushing to help; a giant metal tank is teetering and creaking above Lanz and Garvel, very close to falling.
Noah
We can't-!
Eunie
Noah!
Noah moves to help again, but Eunie keeps him back.
Lanz
(shouting)
(shouting)
Move it!
Noah
Lanz!
Lanz
We can take care of ourselves!
Just go!
Just go!
Noah looks conflicted. Joran suddenly dashes past him and attempts to lift the girder.
Lanz
Jo- Joran?!
Garvel
Wh...why are-
Lanz
You dumb clod...
Come on...
Joran...
Come on...
Joran...
Joran is getting nowhere fast. The other three decide to stop gawking and rush to help.
Noah
Joran!
With Joran, Noah, Eunie, and Riku lifting together, the girder is lifted just enough for Lanz to get out. He pulls Garvel out before the girder is released.
Noah
You hurt?
Can you run?
Can you run?
Noah pulls Lanz to his feet. Eunie does the same for Garvel.
Lanz
Yeah, more or less...
Lanz slowly turns to look at Joran.
Lanz
(in disbelief)
(in disbelief)
Joran... Why...?
Noah puts a hand on his shoulder.
Noah
We should go.
Lanz
Yeah.
Noah, Eunie, Garvel, and Riku run off. Lanz and Joran look at one another again, and share a nod before starting to set off. They're distracted by a creaking sound from above — the tank has finally given way and falls towards them.
Joran
Watch out!
Joran shoves Lanz away. Lanz has a horrified expression as he falls backward. Joran's bangs raise slightly, revealing both eyes and a contented smile. An instant later, Joran is crushed. Everyone shields their faces as the landing crash scatters debris, then looks on in shock.
Lanz
Joran...?
Lanz gets up and starts to run toward the fallen tank.
Lanz
Joran?
Noah has to hold Lanz back. He helplessly reaches out to where Joran stood.
Lanz
(screaming)
(screaming)
Joran!
Joooraaan!!!
Joooraaan!!!
Blood can be seen seeping out from below the rubble.
Back in the present, Joran stares at the party with smugness.
Back in the present, Joran stares at the party with smugness.
Joran
You don't get it?
You honestly don't get it?
In that instant, I rose above you miserable fools!
You honestly don't get it?
In that instant, I rose above you miserable fools!
Joran holds his finger and thumb outstretched, as though Lanz's head is between his digits.
Joran
By saving your...worthless piddling lives!
As he says "lives", he clenches his fist, as though crushing Lanz's head.
Joran
(euphoric)
(euphoric)
It was indescribable, Lanz!
Eunie, Lanz and Noah regard Joran with horror.
Noah
Joran...
Joran turns and begins to casually walk away.
Joran
Ahhh, wasn't this fun?
I guess I'll call it a day here.
Can't be hoarding all the fun for myself now.
Gotta leave some for the next guy or gal.
I guess I'll call it a day here.
Can't be hoarding all the fun for myself now.
Gotta leave some for the next guy or gal.
Lanz
Say what?!
He stops walking.
Joran
I should thank you, Lanz.
Lanz narrows his eyes. Joran looks back, though his only visible eye is hidden behind his bangs.
Joran
'Cause I get to be like this now, and I owe it to you.
Toodles.
Toodles.
He teleports away.
Isurd Reminisces[edit]
Isurd (the real one) is on a bed in Colony Lambda's medic tent. He slowly comes to to see Taion sitting beside him.
Isurd
(weakly)
(weakly)
Taion...
After a fade to black, Isurd is sitting up, with Taion next to him. The rest of the party are sitting on cots a short distance away. Taion finishes saying something inaudible.
Isurd
(worried)
(worried)
So that's what happened...
I'm sorry. I don't remember a thing.
Except for that Consul's silhouette...
Did I...say anything to you?
I didn't...
say something...hurtful, did I...?
I'm sorry. I don't remember a thing.
Except for that Consul's silhouette...
Did I...say anything to you?
I didn't...
say something...hurtful, did I...?
Taion
(unconvincingly "casually")
(unconvincingly "casually")
Not at all... You were your usual self, Commander.
Our pride and joy, the same as always.
Our pride and joy, the same as always.
Eunie
(gently)
(gently)
Taion...
Isurd's face falls. He clearly doesn't believe Taion.
Isurd
I see...
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry.
Isurd reaches into his pocket and takes something out.
Taion
I-is that...?!
It's Nimue's pocketwatch.
Isurd
Nimue...
She always cared so much about you.
She always cared so much about you.
Isurd's eyes are kind, as Taion remembered them being. As he speaks, Isurd remembers a time gone by with Nimue smiling at the young, serious Taion.
Isurd
"You possess...an acuity that sets you apart."
"You'll be an elite, head and shoulders above the likes of us."
Nimue... She wouldn't stop going on about you.
"You'll be an elite, head and shoulders above the likes of us."
Nimue... She wouldn't stop going on about you.
Taion exhales shakily.
Isurd
(quietly proud)
(quietly proud)
So someone called you a coward?
Nonsense.
Considerate's what you are.
Perhaps to a fault.
You heeded a comrade's opinion.
Isn't that right?
Nonsense.
Considerate's what you are.
Perhaps to a fault.
You heeded a comrade's opinion.
Isn't that right?
Taion
(shaky breathing)
Isurd
Here's another thing she mentioned:
That if you led us...
If we could gain victory through your kindness,
she'd have loved to see it.
That if you led us...
If we could gain victory through your kindness,
she'd have loved to see it.
Taion remembers his last moments with Nimue, and turns his head, squinting his eyes shut with a clenched fist. Isurd gets up and presents the pocketwatch to him.
Isurd
Even if it's too much,
it should be yours to carry.
it should be yours to carry.
Taion looks up, and Isurd nods. He slowly takes the pocketwatch in his hand and looks at it.
Isurd
And if you keep it safe...someday...
I'd like you to go visit her.
I'd like you to go visit her.
Taion
(surprised)
(surprised)
How can I...visit...?
Isurd
At the Cadensia frontier,
beyond the Farlaine Underpass,
there's a place where Saffronias bloom.
Nimue always loved their flowers...
And one of them was especially brilliant...
I'd like you to bury it there.
beyond the Farlaine Underpass,
there's a place where Saffronias bloom.
Nimue always loved their flowers...
And one of them was especially brilliant...
I'd like you to bury it there.
Taion clutches the pocketwatch in his hand, letting out something like "Oh..."
Isurd
That'll show her beyond all doubt
your victory through kindness.
your victory through kindness.
Taion brings the pocketwatch close to his breast and closes his eyes in silence.
*We* are Still Alive[edit]
Noah and Mio are outside Colony Lambda, seeing off the fallen "soldiers". Blue motes rise from the mud. Agnian soldiers watch them from a distance, as do Lanz, Sena, Riku, and Manana.
Lanz
(grouchily, to himself)
(grouchily, to himself)
They were literal clods, man.
Nobody's actually died. Who you doin' that for?
Nobody's actually died. Who you doin' that for?
Riku
Lanz got no tact.
Lanz
Do too.
Riku
(sagely)
(sagely)
Is about...atoning.
Sena
Riku, whatcha sayin' there?
Riku remembers what Noah said to him as they walked together towards the battlefield.
Noah
(firmly)
(firmly)
Why are we seeing them off?
I know they were only hollow vessels...
But ultimately, *we* chose to fight...and kill them...
And nothing can change that fact.
Even if there's no one to actually see off, we have to atone for that.
I know they were only hollow vessels...
But ultimately, *we* chose to fight...and kill them...
And nothing can change that fact.
Even if there's no one to actually see off, we have to atone for that.
Riku has supposedly conveyed this to Lanz and Sena.
Riku
In nutshell.
Sena
Oh, I see...
Lanz
Atonement, huh...?
Meanwhile, Taion watches the ceremony from a distance. Eunie walks up to him.
Eunie
Hey, is Isurd OK with this? It's kinda...
Taion
(emotionally recovered)
(emotionally recovered)
Yeah... He doesn't mind.
Eunie
Alllll right. Guess you're all weirdos.
Still, kinda strange. I wonder when it all started...
Still, kinda strange. I wonder when it all started...
They watch the motes rise into the sky around the two off-seers.
Taion
I couldn't tell you exactly when,
but I would surmise it started out as a kind of process for the upkeep of the world.
but I would surmise it started out as a kind of process for the upkeep of the world.
Eunie
Sounds like a crazy kind of process.
This is all going way over my head.
This is all going way over my head.
Taion
Quite simple actually.
It gives a sense of security. Lets you think your dead friends are looking out for you from above.
Alleviating feelings of guilt, and of loss... That's how I understand it.
It gives a sense of security. Lets you think your dead friends are looking out for you from above.
Alleviating feelings of guilt, and of loss... That's how I understand it.
Eunie
Yeah, OK, but... Ain't there plenty of people who don't care about that?
Eunie recalls the ending of the battle against Colony Sigma, the surviving soldiers trampling the fallen underfoot as they head home.
Taion
What matters is that it is there.
You don't need to pay attention. You don't need to do anything.
But the way it is designed, if you think about it, it just works.
We are told our life is born from the Queen, and to the Queen it returns.
However, that's only if you make it to your Homecoming.
But what of the others...?
What of those who fall on the battlefield? Nobody knows.
You don't need to pay attention. You don't need to do anything.
But the way it is designed, if you think about it, it just works.
We are told our life is born from the Queen, and to the Queen it returns.
However, that's only if you make it to your Homecoming.
But what of the others...?
What of those who fall on the battlefield? Nobody knows.
The Colony Lambda soldiers are deep in remembrance.
Taion
Where do they go?
Seeing motes rise into the sky serves to dispel any unease.
You end up believing, well... They're going somewhere.
Seeing motes rise into the sky serves to dispel any unease.
You end up believing, well... They're going somewhere.
Eunie
But where is..."somewhere"? The Queen's place?
Taion
No clue...
Eunie
You what, mate? That's kinda noncommittal for you.
Taion
(slightly amused)
(slightly amused)
Disappointed?
Eunie
Nah, not fussed.
They watch the motes rise in silence.
Later, Mio, Sena, and Manana are cooking outside. Mio tries to taste some soup and burns her tongue, eliciting a chuckle from Sena and Manana.
Later, Mio, Sena, and Manana are cooking outside. Mio tries to taste some soup and burns her tongue, eliciting a chuckle from Sena and Manana.
Lanz
You lot, why're you making that stuff out here?
Colony's got a perfectly good kitchen.
Colony's got a perfectly good kitchen.
Noah's practicing his sword swings. He pauses to watch the conversation.
Mio
(emphasising the "somebody")
(emphasising the "somebody")
(embarrassed chuckle) Out of commission, apparently.
Somebody made a real mess of the place.
Somebody made a real mess of the place.
Sena
(stuttering defensively)
(stuttering defensively)
Wh... Hold on a sec!
Lanz
(noncommitally)
(noncommitally)
Sorry, Mio...
Lanz walks away without another word.
Sena
(laughing nervously)
(laughing nervously)
I-... If we hadn't done what we did, chances are we would've all been dead by now!
Uh, th-that's why we...!
Uh, th-that's why we...!
Mio
(patiently)
(patiently)
It's all right, everyone understands why. You were really brave, Sena.
Mio and Manana continue what they're doing. Sena, on the other hand, is focused on Mio, with a stance suggesting that she's probably making puppy-dog eyes at her.
Sena
Uh...really? You're not just saying that?
Mio
Nope!
Meanwhile, Riku is gloating over a table of engineering supplies.
Riku
Meh-heh-hehhh!
This real thrill of travel!
Excitement moun-TINGGG!
This real thrill of travel!
Excitement moun-TINGGG!
Lanz passes by him on his way out, brows knitted.
Lanz
Hah... Seriously... Nopon can be a bit too easygoing.
Noah
Everyone deals with things in their own way.
Lanz
(voice breaking)
(voice breaking)
Is that right? And why are *you* acting all normal?
It was Joran!
He was... He looked just like his old self!
It was Joran!
He was... He looked just like his old self!
Noah
I suppose...
you think you're the reason for that, do you?
you think you're the reason for that, do you?
Lanz
Huh?
Noah
In that case, I'm telling you to drop it right now.
So Joran turned up. That alone isn't so bad.
So Joran turned up. That alone isn't so bad.
Lanz
(shouting)
(shouting)
'Course it is!
Noah
Figuring out why it happened... That's what we should do!
Lanz
Whaddya mean..."why it happened"...?
Noah turns around and takes a few paces.
Noah
The reason we became Ouroboros... The reason the world looks like this.
It's all connected... I'm sure of it...
It's all connected... I'm sure of it...
Lanz
(snapping)
(snapping)
Or maybe you just want it that way.
Noah
(gently but firmly)
(gently but firmly)
Better than being stuck in the past.
Lanz
I won't...
I can't...
I'll never snuffing forget!
I can't...
I'll never snuffing forget!
Lanz walks away.
Noah
There shouldn't be any life in those bodies... But the motes still rose...
So that means... I knew it.
So that means... I knew it.
Noah pulls out his flute and recalls a scene after a battle. A blonde man walks up to him — the same one Noah saw at the Homecoming years ago.
Unknown man
The dead don't think anything.
They don't speak...
But...survivors speak for them.
To celebrate their life...and death.
That's why...I'm here.
They don't speak...
But...survivors speak for them.
To celebrate their life...and death.
That's why...I'm here.
He pulls his flute to his lips and plays an off-seeing tune, slow and low in register.
Blue motes rise as the Kevesi soldiers stumble on home.
Back in the present, Noah looks at his flute and at Lanz walking away.
Back in the present, Noah looks at his flute and at Lanz walking away.
Noah
(to himself)
(to himself)
Lanz... *We* are still alive...
Later, Eunie finds Lanz sitting alone behind a rock.
Eunie
It ain't like you to sulk like this.
Lanz
Piss off.
Eunie
Noah bust your chops?
Lanz grunts and looks away.
Eunie
(needling)
(needling)
Hm-hmm... Maybe not, but I'm getting warmer.
She sits down with him.
Lanz
(barely not yelling)
(barely not yelling)
Eunie, for sparks' sake, read the room.
Eunie
(more gently)
(more gently)
Hard pass. Look Lanz, I was there too.
Lanz's eyes widen.
Eunie
No one's asking you to forget. Noah's just saying, move on.
Lanz
(bitterly sarcastic)
(bitterly sarcastic)
Ah, Noah. He's always a step ahead, eh?
Eunie
You know he's an off-seer. He's closer to it all than we are.
To the ones who're gone...
To the ones who're gone...
Lanz
Being left, it... It ain't easy.
Eunie
I know. Still...
I don't wanna disappear.
I don't wanna disappear.
Lanz considers this.
Lanz
Yeah...
Yeah, you're right.
Not like...we can afford to go just yet.
Yeah, you're right.
Not like...we can afford to go just yet.
The two sit in silence.
Elsewhere, a battle rages on between a Kevesi and Agnian colony. The Kevesi are winning; one Kevesi swordfighter charges at an Agnian duoblade and strikes them down.
Keves soldier
(holding his sword aloft proudly)
(holding his sword aloft proudly)
The Agnian commander bites the dust!
An Agnian charges at him.
Agnus soldier
I'll kill youuu!!!
The Agnian runs him through with her sword.
Agnus soldier
(furious)
(furious)
He had two months to go...
And you mudders killed him...!
And you mudders killed him...!
She watches the red motes rise with sad eyes before being shot and falling back.
Agnus soldier
(to herself)
(to herself)
Seguy... Forgive me...
The Agnian Flame Clock dies with her. The scene is being watched on the Amphitheater screen, while two Consuls — V and R — are playing a chess-like board game on the stage.
Consul V
(audibly moustache-twirling)
(audibly moustache-twirling)
All dead, all done!
Consul R
Ngah!
Consul V
Ahhh... Did you hear those dulcet death throes, though? "Seguy... Forgive me..."
Forgive what? Why's she apologizing? Uch, humans.
Forgive what? Why's she apologizing? Uch, humans.
Consul R
Tch... Such useless pawns.
Consul V
So I win then?
V grasps a glass of what looks to be flaming wine, and necks it. His Moebius iris glows as he aahs. Meanwhile, Z watches the scene from the stalls, with N standing nearby in the aisle.
N
Tsk...
Z
Nauseating...
...Might we infer from that, N?
...Might we infer from that, N?
N
(unamused)
(unamused)
Is there naught here but these vulgar pleasures?
Z
Hah... I see why you would feel that way.
But, you have not the luxury.
But, you have not the luxury.
N
Say what you mean.
Z
Pleasures and sorrows, meetings and partings, their roots are the same...
Tolerance of existence is at the heart of them all.
Tolerance of existence is at the heart of them all.
N
(scornfully)
(scornfully)
You want me to frolic with them?
Z
You shall find there's no such thing as luxury in this world.
Everything buds from but a single thought.
That you yourself are here...is proof definite thereof.
Everything buds from but a single thought.
That you yourself are here...is proof definite thereof.
N
Hmmm.
N looks away. Z continues looking at the screen — from the camera angle, it's as though he speaks directly to the player.
Z
You need not understand.
You can simply remain as you are... That is enough.
You can simply remain as you are... That is enough.
We all have secrets, deep within...
Memories we can never erase...
Difficult experiences...
It's just a distant dream of mine right now...
But if we can just reach out to each other,
even a little, we can tease out those delicate shapes.
Then, with time, our bonds will grow stronger.
Until one day...
Notes[edit]
- ↑ For unclear reasons, this "I" is actually a lowercase L in the subtitles.