Script of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 - Chapter 4
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The fourth chapter of Xenoblade Chronicles 3, Life, continues the party's journey to Swordmarch, with Colony 4-centric distractions along the way.
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N and Cammuravi[edit]
♫
The scene opens on an intense battle in a narrow valley. The Agnians, with an upright bipedal Ferronis holding the rear, are on the back foot. Inside the Ferronis is Cammuravi, standing still with arms crossed and eyes closed. Cammuravi grits his teeth as the Kevesi troops advance. The air is thick with red motes from Agnian soldiers. The Kevesi commander watches the assault from the balcony of his Ferronis, accompanied by a Consul.
Kevesi Commander
(cautiously hopeful)
(cautiously hopeful)
It's... I-it's...! It's rising! We're getting more life!
Motes flow into the Kevesi Flame Clock, and it rises from remarkably low to about half-full. Kevesi artillery bombards the Agnian Ferronis.
Kevesi Commander
(in disbelief)
(in disbelief)
This is Colony Delta?
That's Smoldering Cammuravi...! His valor, it's the stuff of legends, but...
That's Smoldering Cammuravi...! His valor, it's the stuff of legends, but...
The Agnian Flame Clock dips dangerously low.
Kevesi Commander
We can win! We're gonna make it!
Consul, sir!
Consul, sir!
The Kevesi Ferronis fires at the Agnian, slowly blasting it back.
Kevesi Commander
Right! All troops! Full advance, and don't let up!
Don't let a single life slip from your grasp!!!
Don't let a single life slip from your grasp!!!
Around Cammuravi, screens light up, showing an image of the battlefield and locking targets on the Kevesi Ferronis. He finally opens his eyes, and his Iris eye flashes. The Ferronis transforms, revealing a smaller (albeit still towering) humanoid mech within, which ejects and lands on the ground. The remainder of the Ferronis opens out and moves out of the way.
Kevesi Commander
Huh?
Wh-what the?!
What's...
that Ferronis?!
Wh-what the?!
What's...
that Ferronis?!
A gigantic spear shoots up from the Ferronis's outer part, which Cammuravi catches in the hand of the mech. The tip bursts into a blade of flame. Cammuravi sweeps the spear downwards, and the Kevesi soldiers are forced to halt in their tracks by the firey wind. After another sweep, Cammuravi holds the spear with both hands of the mech, and points it towards the Kevesi commander, who stares open-mouthed.
Cammuravi
Listen here!
You've done well to come this far!
But now...
Smoldering Cammuravi
takes the field!
You've done well to come this far!
But now...
Smoldering Cammuravi
takes the field!
Kevesi Commander
No... No way!
Cammuravi begins to advance. His troops advance with him, now faring much better against the Kevesi infantry.
Kevesi Commander
He let us think we had them pinned...
But really,
we were the ones
that were trapped?!
But really,
we were the ones
that were trapped?!
Cammuravi continues to charge through the narrow valley, quickly closing the distance to the Kevesi Ferronis, sweeping fire with his spear as he goes.
Kevesi Commander
S-spark this!
Everyone, pull back! Full retreat!
We gotta leg it before-!
Everyone, pull back! Full retreat!
We gotta leg it before-!
The Consul teleports away just as Cammuravi thrusts his spear right through the balcony where the Commander stood. Cammuravi gets out of the cockpit and stands atop the Ferronis, watching as red motes pour from the battlefield into the Agnian Flame Clock.
The scene changes to Cammuravi in a prison cell, sitting cross-legged on the ground. Starlight enters the cell through the window. Footsteps are heard; the audience doesn't see their source.
Cammuravi
(with eyes closed)
(with eyes closed)
Just who are you?
Perhaps a guard?
Perhaps not.
Perhaps a guard?
Perhaps not.
It's N, watching Cammuravi from the other side of the cell bars.
N
Well, well. "Smoldering Cammuravi"...
Your name...is no mere affectation.
Your name...is no mere affectation.
N enters the cell. Cammuravi stands and turns to look at him.
Cammuravi
(eyes narrowing)
(eyes narrowing)
A Consul...?
No...
You're...!
No...
You're...!
Ambush[edit]
The party draws their weapons, because standing in their way is none other than an Umber Drague.
The Drague roars, and battle begins.
Crawling in the Dark[edit]
Lanz
Would you just...DIE already!
With a mighty uppercut, the Drague falls.
Lanz
Ahh... Finally...
Lanz "mops his brow", but quickly withdraws the hand after it sizzles against the head.
Lanz
Ugh...Ugh...!
He and Sena cancel their Interlink. The other party members do too.
Lanz
(fed up)
(fed up)
Hey, can we do something about this sparking noise?
Eunie
How would I know? Just cancel the Interlink or something, I guess.
Noah
(in thinking mode)
(in thinking mode)
It only starts after an extended period, after our bodies start to heat up.
Taion
To me it sounds like a warning. For something.
Mio
(slightly concerned)
(slightly concerned)
A warning... Mmm...
What do you think'll happen if we leave it?
What do you think'll happen if we leave it?
Taion
(plainly)
(plainly)
Huh...? I don't have much desire to find out.
Sena
Think it's something...dangerous?
Lanz
Well it can't be anything fun. You expect balloons and confetti with that noise?
Sena
Maybe not.
Noah looks at his hands and hmms.
In the Amphitheater, spotlights illuminate the usual Consul suspects.
Consul P
(snarkily)
(snarkily)
Aww, too bad, J!
J is silent.
Consul O
(Haeh!)
(Haeh!)
Looks like that backfired on you, didn't it?
Better be prepared for the consequences.
Better be prepared for the consequences.
Consul J
(not fussed)
(not fussed)
Really?
I was only interested in putting in an appearance.
You're making it sound like I took some huge risk.
I was only interested in putting in an appearance.
You're making it sound like I took some huge risk.
Consul D
(as close to sympathetic as D can sound)
(as close to sympathetic as D can sound)
Ah, come on now guys.
J's been on the bench all this time.
I get why he might be a little stimulated by a bit of drama.
J's been on the bench all this time.
I get why he might be a little stimulated by a bit of drama.
J puts his hands behind his head.
Consul J
Well it was pretty dramatic, I'll give you that.
Hehehehe.
Hehehehe.
Consul R
Hah. You seem pleased with yourself.
X walks onstage.
Consul X
P... O.
N wants to see you.
N wants to see you.
Consul P
Does he now?
Consul O
Hmm!
Is it our turn to shine?
Is it our turn to shine?
Consul X
(shaking her head)
(shaking her head)
I don't know.
I've got zero idea what's going through his brain, sometimes.
I've got zero idea what's going through his brain, sometimes.
Consul D
Not even you?
Consul X
I'm sure M could tell you.
Not that she's shown herself recently.
Not that she's shown herself recently.
Consul D
Hmmm...
Consul P
What could it be?
I do hope it's something fun.
Let's be off, O.
I do hope it's something fun.
Let's be off, O.
Consul O
Righty-O!
Nobody laughs. The two teleport away, and the spotlights go off for everyone but J.
Consul J
Have a good one.
Hehehehe...
Hehehehe...
His light shuts off too. The amphitheater is left in darkness.
Noah
Are you tired?
Mio
A bit. That last monster was really something.
But I can deal with it.
But I can deal with it.
Taion
Yes, well. In that last battle we all overused our Ouroboros abilities...
I want to avoid Interlinking again for a while.
I want to avoid Interlinking again for a while.
Noah
...Good shout.
Lanz
Couldn't we keep going, just without Interlinking?
Taion
That comes with its own risks. Small, but risks nonetheless. I'm just asking you to keep it in mind.
Lanz
Sure, whatever...
Noah
Shall we find somewhere to have a quick rest, then?
Taion
It appears there should be a good place to take a break up ahead.
Noah
We'll regroup once we get there.
Eunie
Roger that, boss!
Taking up Nimue's Dream[edit]
Taion is overlooking the Great Cotte Falls, Nimue's pocketwatch in hand.
Mio
Ah, there you are!
Mio and Noah approach him.
Mio
I don't want to mither, but... Aren't you on tent duty today?
Taion
Oh! I'm sorry, I forgot.
I'll head back and-
I'll head back and-
He stops - Noah and Mio are going ^_^ ^_^ at him. Taion makes a questioning vocalisation.
Mio
It's all finished.
Taion
Huh?
Noah
We already packed it all up.
Taion
(sighing)
(sighing)
Pfff. Then what was the point of telling me? Don't you have better things to do?
Noah
Hey, you owe us one.
Mio nods. Taion huffs.
Noah
(chuckling, then sober)
(chuckling, then sober)
I'm just joking!
Are you OK?
Are you OK?
Taion
(still perturbed)
(still perturbed)
What do you mean, OK?
Mio
These last few days... It's been a lot, right?
Taion
That's why you're concerned?
Mio
Yep. You got it.
We were worried. Your problems are our problems.
Just because someone says they're doing OK doesn't mean everything actually is fine with them.
We were worried. Your problems are our problems.
Just because someone says they're doing OK doesn't mean everything actually is fine with them.
Taion
(pushing his glasses up)
(pushing his glasses up)
You know, there's a word for people like you.
Mio
Hm?
Taion
Busybodies, all of you.
Mio
(frowning)
(frowning)
Now Taion, that is completely uncalled for!
Taion looks away and smiles despite himself. The other two raise their eyebrows.
Taion
Hah...
You two really must be bored stiff. Good grief.
You two really must be bored stiff. Good grief.
Noah
Everyone needs to let off steam.
Taion
(can't hide his appreciation)
(can't hide his appreciation)
Is my life that entertaining to you?
Pah... I'll allow it.
Pah... I'll allow it.
Taion looks at the pocketwatch again.
Mio
Hey, that watch...
He nods.
Taion
Our lifetimes run for ten years only.
But...this pocket watch has already lived for longer than that,
by being passed from Nimue's hands to mine.
But...this pocket watch has already lived for longer than that,
by being passed from Nimue's hands to mine.
As he speaks, the scene flashes back to the party's initial meeting and fighting.
Taion
What Guernica said to us on that battlefield.
I don't know what you made of it exactly, but frankly, to me it was a load of nonsense.
Not even enough to push us together.
But that's changed.
If Nimue's life is represented by her dreams, then in remembering those, I carry her life with me.
Perhaps now... I can give a purpose to my life. She'd live on, if I were to pass her dreams on to others... Right?
I don't know what you made of it exactly, but frankly, to me it was a load of nonsense.
Not even enough to push us together.
But that's changed.
If Nimue's life is represented by her dreams, then in remembering those, I carry her life with me.
Perhaps now... I can give a purpose to my life. She'd live on, if I were to pass her dreams on to others... Right?
Mio
Heavy...
Taion turns around and closes his eyes.
Taion
Also, I've done some thinking.
If I had just, say, ten more years... No, even five.
With just a bit of borrowed time...how many more memories could I fit...inside this little pocket watch...?
If I had just, say, ten more years... No, even five.
With just a bit of borrowed time...how many more memories could I fit...inside this little pocket watch...?
Noah
And that's...why you're here now?
Taion
That's half of it.
Mio
What's the other half, then?
Taion
(stuttering)
(stuttering)
Oh, uh, well...
In fact, just forget it.
In fact, just forget it.
Mio
(miffed)
(miffed)
Aw come on...! You've already told us that much. Might as well give us the whole story!
Taion
(looking away)
(looking away)
Thi-this is just not the place or time for it, that's all.
Mio
Laaaame...
Still, it was a nice chat.
Dreams in objects, huh...
Still, it was a nice chat.
Dreams in objects, huh...
She giggles. Taion "huh?"s.
Mio
Thanks, Taion. We came here to cheer you up a bit, and got food for thought instead.
Taion
Oh, sure. Any time.
She keeps talking. The audience doesn't hear; nor does Noah, who's simply staring at Mio.
Noah
(Mio...)
The Annihilator[edit]
The party has reached an overhang with a view.
Sena
Is that...?
It's an imposing, towering sillhouette in the distance - the same shape as the palace in the background of the prologue.
Eunie
That's Keves Castle, all right. First time seeing it?
Sena
Yeah...
Manana
(with wonder)
(with wonder)
Same level of elaborate as Castle of Agnus!
Riku
Can also see Great Sword on left.
The sword is visibly much farther away, but dwarfs even the massive castle.
Taion
Are we going through with this?
Noah
No, I see it's far too risky now.
The area will be under strict guard. But downslope, we could go via the forest.
The area will be under strict guard. But downslope, we could go via the forest.
Taion
Maktha Wildwood, huh...
Mio
Doesn't sound too bad to me.
The party walks off. Noah keeps looking at the castle.
Bolearis
Oh-ho!
Weh-hell, never been this far in before.
Weh-hell, never been this far in before.
Ethel
Me neither...
The last time I had an audience with the Queen, she had come in person to the warfront.
The last time I had an audience with the Queen, she had come in person to the warfront.
Queen of Keves
It has been some time, hasn't it?
Ethel
(still at attention)
(still at attention)
Ma'am.
I am elated to find you in good stead, Your Majesty.
That you would grace us with your presence is an honor above my station.
I am elated to find you in good stead, Your Majesty.
That you would grace us with your presence is an honor above my station.
Queen of Keves
We can dispense with the stiff preambles, Ethel.
N.
N.
N
Ma'am.
N interfaces with some sort of hologram.
Ethel
(to herself)
(to herself)
N...?
Consul N...? That's him?
Consul N...? That's him?
Bolearis
(quietly, to Ethel)
(quietly, to Ethel)
N...
The head honcho of Kevesi Consuls himself.
The Golden Consul...
The head honcho of Kevesi Consuls himself.
The Golden Consul...
N gives Bolearis a side-eye, who quickly breaks eye contact. Outside the castle, a ring structure surrounding the castle rotates, wheeling around a giant horizontal construction into position. In the Throne Room, a screen appears behind Ethel and Bolearis, displaying the construction.
Ethel
What is that...?
N
The Annihilator...
The latest weapon in our military arsenal.
It utilizes breakthroughs in application of the annihilation effect.
The latest weapon in our military arsenal.
It utilizes breakthroughs in application of the annihilation effect.
Ethel
(eyes widening)
(eyes widening)
You've harnessed it?!
Black fog coalesces around the Flame Clock atop Keves Castle. The Annihilator opens up to reveal a railgun-like cannon.
N
(enunciating)
(enunciating)
Not only is its power without equal, it has another exquisite benefit.
Let me show you.
Let me show you.
Ethel
What, you mean...right here and now?
N
Indeed. This will be its finest hour.
Outside, the Annihilator rotates as energy collects at its tip. The view on the Throne Room screen shifts to a mountain range.
N
(dryly)
(dryly)
The Urayan Mountains...
A terrible shame. Her Majesty has a soft spot for them.
Please do not think ill of me.
A terrible shame. Her Majesty has a soft spot for them.
Please do not think ill of me.
The energy at the Annihilator's tip intensifies until it bursts out in a flash. Ethel flinches at the light. A neat spherical section of the upper edge of the Urayan mountains is annihilated, leaving a hole seemingly hundreds of metri in radius.
The party are strolling along cluelessly when a burst of light and a shockwave rolls through the area. Sena yelps.
The party are strolling along cluelessly when a burst of light and a shockwave rolls through the area. Sena yelps.
Mio
Wha- What?! What was that?
Eunie
Just thunder...innit?
Lanz
Brighter than any lightning I've ever seen...
Riku
Still ringing in ears...
Taion
Where did the light come from?
Noah
(frowning)
(frowning)
No idea.
But...this can't be good...
But...this can't be good...
Back in the Throne Room, the screen displays the newly-trimmed Urayan Mountains.
Ethel
What incredible power...
N
Its effective range...has no discernible limit whatsoever.
Ethel
What are you...?
N
I'm saying an attack like the one you just witnessed can be delivered...anywhere.
Ethel
So you mean to use this weapon against Agnus?
Ah... If you're to use this, then...what about the Clocks...?
Ah... If you're to use this, then...what about the Clocks...?
Queen of Keves
Who said anything about using it on Agnus?
Ethel
Ma'am...?
Queen of Keves
The next target...will be this.
Ethel and Bolearis turn, and stare in shock - the screen shows Colony 4.
Moebius's Motive[edit]
The party approaches a downward incline in the path. Lanz treads carefully.
Lanz
Watch the moss, guys. Mind you don't slip-
Lanz yelps as his feet give way from underneath him.
Eunie
(highly amused)
(highly amused)
Ahahahaha! He says, falling flat on his arse himself.
Lanz
(righting himself, cross)
(righting himself, cross)
Oh yeah, bloody hilarious. You're always taking the mick out of me.
Noah!
Noah!
Noah is staring into space.
Noah
Huh? Did you say something?
Lanz
Oh for... Don't come crying if you fall.
The party continues on. Mio approaches Noah.
Mio
You seem like you're a million miles away...
Lot on your mind?
Lot on your mind?
Noah
(turning away)
(turning away)
Yeah, kinda...
As they walk, Mio's legs suddenly wobble.
Mio
Ahh!
Noah
Uh...? Mio!
Noah grabs her, keeping her upright.
Mio
Ah... Thank you.
Noah
Are you OK?
Mio
Yeah, I just lost my footing for a second. I'm OK.
Mio
(softly, looking away)
(softly, looking away)
For now, I'm OK...
Noah
"For now"...?
Noah's eyes catch Mio's term mark.
Noah
Are you...not feeling a hundred percent?
Mio
(suddenly far too chipper)
(suddenly far too chipper)
Uh? Nah, nothing like that!
I'm totally fine, promise. Like I said, I just missed my footing.
I'm totally fine, promise. Like I said, I just missed my footing.
Noah's expression looks no less worried.
Noah
If you start feeling worse, just say.
I don't want you hiding it.
I don't want you hiding it.
Mio
Mhm...
You're a kind man, aren't you?
You're a kind man, aren't you?
Noah
(stammering)
(stammering)
I-I'm just...being polite.
Noah awkwardly turns around and walks on, instantly slipping on the moss and crashing into Lanz at the bottom. Mio has a soft smile.
Later, at camp, Mio joins Noah in staring at the fire.
Later, at camp, Mio joins Noah in staring at the fire.
Mio
So what was on your mind? Earlier.
Noah
Yeah, that light...? I was wondering if it had anything to do with us...
Mio
You think, maybe... Could it've been something that Moebius did?
He nods. Lanz and Sena get up from their pushup session.
Sena
Huh?
Noah
...We know that they're hunting us.
Mio
Mm...
Noah
Taion, you told us before... That our Consuls were actually the same.
Taion
Yeah, I did say that.
Noah
After that, nobody said so, but... we were all thinking it.
The war between Agnus and Keves, and the Consuls...
or rather, Moebius. They must be connected somehow.
The war between Agnus and Keves, and the Consuls...
or rather, Moebius. They must be connected somehow.
The party considers this.
Mio
It could be that...all the fighting... It might be that it's all orchestrated according to Moebius.
Noah
And to them, Ouroboros... only spell trouble.
Eunie
Since we keep wrecking their Flame Clocks and all.
Sena
They must really hate us messing with their stuff, I guess...
Lanz
So we're one big thorn in their side.
Taion
Hmm...
It does stand to reason that's why we're their targets, but it doesn't tell us anything about why our colonies fight.
Any theories?
It does stand to reason that's why we're their targets, but it doesn't tell us anything about why our colonies fight.
Any theories?
Noah enters a thinking pose.
Noah
Not as yet.
But I figure... Isn't discovering that our real objective here? Right?
If we seek out the City... Maybe we'll find answers.
But I figure... Isn't discovering that our real objective here? Right?
If we seek out the City... Maybe we'll find answers.
Mio
One way to know.
The camera zooms in deep on Noah's face as his eyes harden.
Supervillainpon?[edit]
The party overlooks High Maktha Wildwood.
Eunie
(scowling)
(scowling)
Man, those Moebius mooks... They make my feathers stand on end.
Ending peoples' lives like it doesn't matter. Urgh. What a sick joke.
Ending peoples' lives like it doesn't matter. Urgh. What a sick joke.
Riku
(gravely)
(gravely)
There word for people like that. Know what Nopon say?
Sena
No idea. Tell us?
Riku
"Supervillainpon".
Noah
Riku, what does that mean, then?
Riku
It mean extreme bad guy.
Noah
Ahh, I think I get it.
Manana
Meh-meh...?
Eunie
Wassup, Manana?
Manana
Then, are Noah and Mio and friends... supervillainpon?
Lanz
You're labeling us?
Manana
(earnestly)
(earnestly)
Labeling. Because friends used to end lives also!
That not make them supervillainpon?
That not make them supervillainpon?
Eunie
I mean... It's not like we ever had a choice or anything. It was them or us.
Manana
So when no choice, not fall under definition then?
Lanz
None of us ever fought 'cause we wanted to.
It's just how it worked.
How people worked, and the world.
It's just how it worked.
How people worked, and the world.
Manana
So...
World is supervillainpon!
World is supervillainpon!
Lanz
Whuh?
Manana
Since it make everyone do nasty things!
World is bad guy!
World is bad guy!
Noah
The world is...bad?
Huh, I never thought of it like that.
Huh, I never thought of it like that.
Lanz
Now that you mention it, what in the world are we even here for?
Everyone thinks for a moment.
Taion
I wouldn't strain your brain too much.
Lanz
Sounds like *you* have.
Taion
(dryly)
(dryly)
What gave you that idea?
Lanz
Cut the snark, just tell me!
Taion
The end-point of it is...
...suicide.
...suicide.
Lanz
Say what?
Taion
(not liking what he's saying)
(not liking what he's saying)
If you don't want to hurt others, you'll end up denying your own right to survive.
Eventually, you come to the conclusion that the world may well be better off without your presence.
The only resolution then, is to erase the self. To die.
See? Pointless.
Eventually, you come to the conclusion that the world may well be better off without your presence.
The only resolution then, is to erase the self. To die.
See? Pointless.
Lanz
Isn't that taking it too far?
Noah
(softly)
(softly)
The world doesn't just vanish because you've closed your eyes.
Taion
What...?
Noah
The moon...
They all look up at the full moon.
Noah
Think about it. Why is it that the moon shines?
Just because we're watching?
Of course not.
Even if humans were gone, it would shine on, illuminating the land beneath.
And yet... We're the ones that give meaning to it.
We say "bit dim tonight," or... "Looks brighter than usual, eh?"
Similarly, we can now imbue the world with meaning, or change it.
It's a privilege we were lucky to obtain.
Just because we're watching?
Of course not.
Even if humans were gone, it would shine on, illuminating the land beneath.
And yet... We're the ones that give meaning to it.
We say "bit dim tonight," or... "Looks brighter than usual, eh?"
Similarly, we can now imbue the world with meaning, or change it.
It's a privilege we were lucky to obtain.
Mio
And that's...the power of Ouroboros?
Noah
We're obliged to use it. We can make a difference.
Mio
So we don't become supervillains?
Noah
That's one thing to aim for, at least.
Right?
Right?
Noah smiles at Riku and Manana. Manana flaps around happily.
Natural Selection[edit]
- Main article: Natural Selection (quest)/Script
Missing Rations[edit]
Everyone is dining at camp.
Manana
(humming a tune)
Manana happily hums as she goes over to the cooking pot, only to find to her horror that it is empty.
Manana
GASP! Food is entirely missing!
Manana not even get single fill of stomach yet!
Manana not even get single fill of stomach yet!
Lanz
I just saw you stuffing your cheeks!
Taion
The rations should have been divided equally.
Tears stream down Manana's face.
Manana
(sniffling)
(sniffling)
Manana walked more than used to today.
Tummy was rumbly-grumbly...!
Tummy was rumbly-grumbly...!
Eunie
Not much we can do, though. Not now.
Sena walks over and squats down until she's eye-level with Manana.
Sena
(patiently)
(patiently)
Manana... Look, we've still got a ways to go, so you're gonna have to get used to rationing stuff out, 'kay?
Manana
(disappointed)
(disappointed)
Mehhhh...
At night, everyone lies sprawled out on their bedrolls. From the bushes, a flock of Tirkin sneaks into camp and makes away with the food.
In the morning, Sena stretches as she strolls past the nonexistent food. After a second, she reverses and takes a moment while her brain processes the picture in front of her.
In the morning, Sena stretches as she strolls past the nonexistent food. After a second, she reverses and takes a moment while her brain processes the picture in front of her.
Sena
GASP![1] All the food's completely gone!
Noah wakes up with a start. Lanz stops his practice swings.
Lanz
(max alert)
(max alert)
Whazzup? What's wrong?!
Noah
(distressed)
(distressed)
What did you say was gone?
Mio
(audibly still half-asleep)
(audibly still half-asleep)
I think she was yelling about food?
Eunie
Wha-? No way! For real?!
The party collects around the empty sacks.
Riku
Friends sure did not just put elsewhere and forget?
Sena
Nuh-uh, I'm positive it was right here!
Taion
Indeed, I checked it myself before I turned in.
Eunie
Don't tell me someone scoffed the whole lot?
Lanz
Ugh, no way...
The party looks over at Manana, who is still sleeping contentedly.
Manana
(sleeptalking)
(sleeptalking)
Mmmeeehh...
Manana will leave no plate unpolished...
Manana will leave no plate unpolished...
After a fade to black, Manana is hopping mad at Riku and Lanz.
Manana
That awful! False accusation!
Not even Manana ever stoop to such crude vulgar behavior!
Not even Manana ever stoop to such crude vulgar behavior!
Lanz
All right, all right, we get it, just chill out already.
Manana
Manana refuse to become frosty!
This now matter of honor and dignity!
For starters...!
This now matter of honor and dignity!
For starters...!
Manana continues furiously defending herself in the background as the scene's focus shifts to others.[2]
Noah
I know Manana was feeling a bit peckish, but she can't have eaten up the lot...
Manana
Manana so victimized!
Why nobody even consider Riku for culprit, hm?!
Why nobody even consider Riku for culprit, hm?!
Mio
So, who then?
Lanz
Clearly it wasn't Riku. That guy barely eats at all.
Right?
Right?
Noah
Hrmm...
Riku
Indeed! Riku practice ancient Nopon art of restraint.
Manana do not.
Manana do not.
Eunie notices a feather on the ground and picks it up.
Eunie
Hey! Check it!
Noah
...A feather? But what kind?
Manana
Meh-meh!
What that?! Riku imply Manana is big glutton?!
What that?! Riku imply Manana is big glutton?!
Sena has noticed some Tirkin footprints.
Sena
I found tracks, here!
Lanz
Nobody's blaming you here, Manana.
Taion
These footprints... I think they're...Tirkin!
Manana
Uh-uh, heavily implied.
Ears of Manana hear it clear: accused of being absolute greedypon!
Ears of Manana hear it clear: accused of being absolute greedypon!
Eunie
Mystery solved, then. A Tirkin feather!
Lanz
Look, we're sorry, OK?
Mio
Sooo... They raided our supplies?
The focus momentarily shifts back to Manana, Lanz, and Riku.
Manana
(melodramatically)
(melodramatically)
Lanz can stuff apology!
Honor and dignity of Manana left in tatters from vile and baseless accusation!
Honor and dignity of Manana left in tatters from vile and baseless accusation!
Lanz
C'mon, please, lighten up already...
Noah
All accusations aside, we're really...strapped for food.
Manana
Manana not lighten up even if receive ten thousand Tasty Sausage!
Mio
Guess we'll have to go foraging.
Lanz
Ten thousand!? They'd go fuzzy before you ate 'em!
Taion
I concur.
Luckily, this area is pretty bountiful all in all, so we might not be too hard-pressed.
Luckily, this area is pretty bountiful all in all, so we might not be too hard-pressed.
Manana
Conclusion is not foregone!
Manana can easily eat one thousand per day.
"Best before" is fifteen days, so all peachy!
Manana can easily eat one thousand per day.
"Best before" is fifteen days, so all peachy!
Noah
Well, better get to it.
Lanz
What now? Uh, best before what?
Taion
Right.
Mio
'Kay!
Riku
Anyway, that clearly too much eat.
Manana is bottomless pit.
Manana is bottomless pit.
Manana
Meh-meh!
Whuh- Will have Riku know Manana is dainty eater!!!
Whuh- Will have Riku know Manana is dainty eater!!!
Riku
Not denying.
Manana
Lies! And deceit!
On this day of days, Manana will have retribution!!!
On this day of days, Manana will have retribution!!!
Manana's admonitions echo around the landscape.
Elsewhere, Bolearis is running with a limp through the wildwood.
Bolearis
(running, panting)
N is watching him from a projector in Keves Castle. O and P saunter up.
Consul O
Looks like we've got ourselves a runner.
Slipped out from the Castle.
Slipped out from the Castle.
Consul P
Is this OK?
He could get in touch with Ouroboros...
Won't that impact our previous arrangements?
He could get in touch with Ouroboros...
Won't that impact our previous arrangements?
N
(contemptuously)
(contemptuously)
Not to worry.
If he does make contact,
they'll come.
If he does make contact,
they'll come.
Consul P
Hah. Really?
N
Ouroboros are...simply like that.
Consul P
Hmmm...
Well, if *you* say so. We can probably take your word.
Right, O?
Well, if *you* say so. We can probably take your word.
Right, O?
Consul O
Hmmm, certainly.
As you say, P. We probably can take his word.
As you say, P. We probably can take his word.
- For the script of Stolen Provisions, see Stolen Provisions § Dialogue.
Lanz's Anguish[edit]
The party is foraging for food. Lanz approaches a sizeable boulder and stretches before gripping it. His power frame whirrs and sparks as he hoists the boulder over his head. With a grunt of exertion, he tosses it to the side. Riku goes to pluck some plants behind.
Lanz
Phew...
Riku
Much relief! Glad Riku adjust power frame last night.
Should perform 30% better than leading brand.
Should perform 30% better than leading brand.
Lanz
(ill-humoured)
(ill-humoured)
Whatcha on about, "leading brand"?
Lanz
I get that we're weaker than Agnians, so we need this to get on more of an even footing in combat, but...
Riku
Friend say "but". Why "but"?
Lanz
(gesturing)
(gesturing)
We just need...OOMPH, you know, like? KAPOW, sorta thing!
Riku
Sound-effects not help comprehension.
Lanz
Oh you know...
Lanz remembers Noah cutting down the Colony 4 Flame Clock with Lucky Seven.
Lanz
Like that...doodad Noah has.
Riku
Doo...dad?
Lanz
Oojamaflip.
You know what I mean. Don't make me say it.
You know what I mean. Don't make me say it.
Riku
What friend want to use for?
Lanz
(caught off-guard)
(caught off-guard)
Uh...? Well, I...
Riku
Not on Joran by any chance?
Lanz starts.
Riku
If so, Riku have to pass.
Lanz
Aw, come on.
Riku
So Riku guess right.
Lanz gives a grunt of defeat.
Riku
Backing up, this plan of Lanz... Noah privy to it?
Make decision without consult allies? Bad form.
Make decision without consult allies? Bad form.
Lanz
(darkly)
(darkly)
But he's our...enemy.
Riku
And who decide that?
Joran ever say himself? That he enemy?
Joran ever say himself? That he enemy?
Lanz
He didn't. I did.
Riku
In absence of complete picture?
Lanz
Well, but... He's different...!
Lanz bends down towards Riku assertively. Riku is unperturbed.
Riku
So after meet just once, Lanz make up mind?
Lanz
(defeated)
(defeated)
Then...what're we gonna do?!
Riku
(sagely)
(sagely)
Only thing friends can. Keep moving forward.
Lanz gets back up and looks away.
Lanz
How's that gonna solve anything...?
Should never have asked...
Should never have asked...
Riku turns and looks off into the distance.
Riku
Also...
"Doodad" not that kind of thing.
"Doodad" not that kind of thing.
Lanz lets out a grumbling sigh.
The Gift of Life[edit]
While foraging, Mio comes across a tree with pink flowers and gourd-like fruit.
Mio
Hey, look! That's a really odd-looking tree.
Manana
Meh?
Manana runs over to the tree. Eunie joins them.
Manana
(joyously)
(joyously)
Oh, wondrous day!
Manana holds up one of the fruit, beaming. It's surrounded by a glowy starburst-like lighting effect.
Manana
Cannot believe eyes! It fruit of legend, Bright Fig!
Mio
Bright Fig? What's a Bright Fig when it's at home?
Eunie
Lemme guess. They're stupidly delish?
Manana
Oh, guaranteed! Deliciousness is such that friends will be picking up jaws from ground for weeks!
Manana opens her eyes and her face falls.
Manana
...Uh-oh!
She falls to her wings, weeping profusely.
Eunie
What's up? Are they rotten or something?
Manana
...Tragedy strike.
These not ripe for plucking yet, let alone eating.
If eat now, bitter flavor cause agonizing death...
These not ripe for plucking yet, let alone eating.
If eat now, bitter flavor cause agonizing death...
Eunie
Huh...? I dunno, they look tasty enough to me...
Manana
Bright Fig not good for eating even after full yellow...
Still have to wait another year before able to enjoy...
Still have to wait another year before able to enjoy...
Eunie
That's too long! Man, so much for that...
Mio
(casually)
(casually)
Never mind. You can always come back next year!
It's legendary, right? You wouldn't wanna miss out.
It's legendary, right? You wouldn't wanna miss out.
Eunie
Tch... Guess we'll have to.
Manana
But Mio... Year from now...
Mio
Mhm, even if I might not get to do it,
you guys can still have a taste.
you guys can still have a taste.
Eunie
(penny dropping)
(penny dropping)
Why wouldn't you- Whoa!
Eunie gets up in Mio's grill.
Eunie
Love, you gotta stop being so detached about it. You'll just get everyone feeling guilty.
Mio
Oh, sorry, sorry! Please don't mind me.
Eunie
(crossing her arms)
(crossing her arms)
Don't mind me, she says... 'Course we're gonna mind you, doll.
The three have sat together, backs against the tree.
Eunie
(gently)
(gently)
Hey, how can you be so casual about it?
Mio
What do you mean, "casual"?
Eunie points to her term marker.
Mio
(frowning)
(frowning)
I assure you, I'm not.
I'm actually pretty flustered.
I'm actually pretty flustered.
Eunie
You deffo don't look it.
Mio
If it looks that way to you,
well, that's because... I shouldn't even be here.
well, that's because... I shouldn't even be here.
Eunie
Whatcha mean?
Mio takes out her flute.
Mio
This life's a gift, from... a dear friend...
It should've been me... I should have died out there that day.
It should've been me... I should have died out there that day.
An audioless flashback plays: Mio's brown-haired off-seeing partner carries Mio through an exploding building, and puts Mio in an escape pod before being consumed by flames.
Mio
So this isn't really me. I'm just living on her time.
Maybe that's why...?
Maybe that's why...?
Mio stands up and plays a melody.
Eunie
Hmmm...
Somehow, that reminds me of us.
Somehow, that reminds me of us.
Mio
I know. When we're Interlinked, I can see a glimpse.
Inferno, destruction... Lanz, screaming.
Inferno, destruction... Lanz, screaming.
Eunie
Noah's memories...
What if... Bear with me...
That friend of yours, she showed up like Joran?
What if... Bear with me...
That friend of yours, she showed up like Joran?
Mio
As an enemy?
Eunie
As an enemy.
Mio
I suppose... I'd want to know, same as Lanz.
Simply... Why?
Simply... Why?
Eunie
Gotcha. I figured.
Mm...
Mm...
Tears well up in Mio's eyes.
Mio
(voice breaking)
(voice breaking)
Why is it that you gave your life for mine?
Why...? You could've lived longer yourself, Miyabi.
Why did you do it?
Why...? You could've lived longer yourself, Miyabi.
Why did you do it?
Eunie
So her name was Miyabi...
Sorry... Guess it's a sensitive subject.
Sorry... Guess it's a sensitive subject.
Mio shakes her head and sniffs.
Mio
It's funny... I thought I had it all locked down...
Manana holds up a handkerchief for Mio.
Mio
(more collected)
(more collected)
Thank you.
Whatever her reason...I'd accept it. The facts.
Whatever the truth may be.
Whatever her reason...I'd accept it. The facts.
Whatever the truth may be.
Eunie
And that's it? No looking back?
She nods.
Mio
While my de-facto partner's running full steam ahead?
I mean, I can't very well go backwards, can I now?
I mean, I can't very well go backwards, can I now?
Eunie
(amused)
(amused)
You're partners now, eh?
Heh, I s'pose you are, at that.
Heh, I s'pose you are, at that.
Mio
Hm?
They look over at Noah, conversing with Taion and Sena.
Eunie
I wonder... How does he see things?
Mounting Tension[edit]
The party has filled several sacks with foraged food.
Noah
All right then.
That should be us good for food now.
That should be us good for food now.
Sena
Yeah! Looks like that'll last us a little while.
Mio's ears pick something up.
Taion
What's wrong, Mio?
♫
A rustling can be heard from the nearby bushes. The party draws their Blades.
Lanz
Who's there? Come out!
It's Bolearis, covered in dirt. Noah sheathes his weapon in surprise.
Noah
Bolearis?!
Bolearis is gasping for breath and looks to be in pain.
After a cut to black, he's sitting down and his leg is being healed by Eunie.
After a cut to black, he's sitting down and his leg is being healed by Eunie.
Bolearis
Yeah, much better... I owe you.
Noah
(concerned)
(concerned)
What are you doing over this way?
I thought you were going to the Castle?
I thought you were going to the Castle?
Bolearis
(nonchalantly)
(nonchalantly)
Yeah... No, I went.
And this is what I got for my trouble.
And this is what I got for my trouble.
Noah
So, tell us, what happened...?
Bolearis's recounting takes the form of a flashback. Ethel and Bolearis are in the throne room, presumably having just been told that Colony 4 is the Annihilator's target.
Ethel
(consternated)
(consternated)
But why, Your Majesty?
Why would you attack Colony 4?!
Why would you attack Colony 4?!
N
You came into contact with Ouroboros, did you not?
Ethel gasps.
N
I'd call it...
burning out the contagion.
burning out the contagion.
Ethel
C...contagion...?
Bolearis
You're implying we've been contaminated?!
N
Have you not?
You have been removed from the protection of the Flame Clocks. You no longer need to wager your lives in battle.
You have been removed from the protection of the Flame Clocks. You no longer need to wager your lives in battle.
Queen of Keves
Who struggles not in life, deserves not to live.
That is the compact of our nation, and moreover, the truth.
That is the compact of our nation, and moreover, the truth.
Ethel
Majesty... My Queen...
N
Yet, to punish you all for fate's machinations would be a misstep.
Therefore... I shall grant you a chance.
Therefore... I shall grant you a chance.
Ethel
What must I do?
N
Eliminate Ouroboros.
Ethel
(gasping)
(gasping)
You want me to-
Noah and the rest...?!
Noah and the rest...?!
N
Naturally I am cognizant of the fact that the enemy is wily and capable.
I have no intention...of sending you alone.
I have no intention...of sending you alone.
P and O walk up. Between them is Cammuravi.
Ethel
(shocked)
(shocked)
Cammuravi?!
Wh- Why are *you* here...?
Wh- Why are *you* here...?
Cammuravi
(stoically)
(stoically)
Ethel.
Bolearis
H-how?
But you're not even on the same side!
But you're not even on the same side!
N's lips curl upward.
N
Entertainment.
Ethel
Pardon?
N
Those who have been released from the Flame Clocks' sacred indenture...cannot be affected by the Moebius Iris.
To bring you back under control, I would have to force your rebirth.
But that wouldn't be nearly as fun...
To bring you back under control, I would have to force your rebirth.
But that wouldn't be nearly as fun...
Queen of Keves
The power you two wield surpasses even some of our Consuls.
I have great hopes for you,
Ethel. Cammuravi...
I have great hopes for you,
Ethel. Cammuravi...
Ethel frowns.
Back in the present, Bolearis finishes his tale.
Back in the present, Bolearis finishes his tale.
Bolearis
They gave Ethel, and Cammuravi, new Ferronises.
They've been made specifically to kill Ouroboros.
They've been made specifically to kill Ouroboros.
The Ferronis looks like the one Ethel duelled Cammuravi in, and has a purple Flame Clock.
Bolearis
The tune-up...might take a little while.
Though... You don't have much time. The two of them are after your heads.
Though... You don't have much time. The two of them are after your heads.
Noah
You're sure of this? Really?
Bolearis
That's why I came here. To give you warning.
They already know your rough position. That's how I found you in the first place[4]
They already know your rough position. That's how I found you in the first place[4]
Back in the flashback, Bolearis checks his Iris.
Bolearis
What's this?
Ethel
Plans of the Castle.
They were tuning up my Ferronis when I "happened" upon them.
They include schematics for the Annihilator.
Take them and go back to Colony 4.
They were tuning up my Ferronis when I "happened" upon them.
They include schematics for the Annihilator.
Take them and go back to Colony 4.
Bolearis
Commander, you mean...?
Ethel nods.
Ethel
If they can find us wherever we are, I want to at least secure a way for us to put up a fight.
Am I wrong?
Am I wrong?
Bolearis
But Ma'am, we can't very well-!
Ethel
Also, about Noah's group...
If you happen across them, tell them this:
I *will* use lethal force... Yes?
If you happen across them, tell them this:
I *will* use lethal force... Yes?
Bolearis's eyes widen.
Ethel
Furthermore, tell them I wish them all the best of luck,
I hope they reach their goal.
I hope they reach their goal.
Bolearis
(questioning)
(questioning)
Commander...
Bolearis dashes out of the castle, avoiding guards. The flashback ends.
Sena
Oh, Ethel... She sounds serious...
Mio
And still, telling us to just...keep going...?
Bolearis
That's Ethel for you. Hard-headed as they come.
Noah
Won't she get into trouble? Because of you slipping out?
Bolearis
Hardly... I'm just one missing footsoldier. No one's gonna pay it any mind.
Eunie
Huh? But, your wounds earlier...?
Bolearis
Ha - truth is...
They're from falling off a cliff on the way here.
It was dark as snuff.
They're from falling off a cliff on the way here.
It was dark as snuff.
He laughs sheepishly.
Eunie
Are you tuggin' my wings?
Bolearis
Well, anyhow. It's nothing for you lot to fret over.
This is our problem now.
You focus on achieving your objective.
This is our problem now.
You focus on achieving your objective.
Noah
We appreciate it...
Bolearis
But maaan...
Why's the commander gotta duke it out with you lot, eh?
And why was our foe Cammuravi there, the Aspar?
Feels like the whole world's turned on its head.
Why's the commander gotta duke it out with you lot, eh?
And why was our foe Cammuravi there, the Aspar?
Feels like the whole world's turned on its head.
He stands up.
Bolearis
All righty. I'm headin' back!
Got it? You lot scoot on along out of these parts.
There's still some time before they're done tweaking.
And with you on foot-
Got it? You lot scoot on along out of these parts.
There's still some time before they're done tweaking.
And with you on foot-
Noah
(interrupting)
(interrupting)
We're not running away. Not after all this.
Bolearis
Uh?
Mio
I'm staying too.
Sena
What, really?
Mio
That light we saw, a while back...
If that... If that had come from the Annihilator...
Even if we were to somehow reach our destination, if it was at the cost of all your lives, it wouldn't be worth it!
Surviving like that...
I couldn't bear it!
If that... If that had come from the Annihilator...
Even if we were to somehow reach our destination, if it was at the cost of all your lives, it wouldn't be worth it!
Surviving like that...
I couldn't bear it!
Sena
Mimi...
Noah
Mio...
Bolearis. The Castle plans, can you share them?
Bolearis. The Castle plans, can you share them?
Bolearis
Noah... You're not...? You wouldn't...
Noah
The fact remains - it was us that destroyed your Clock, therefore...
Bolearis
Yes, but that's-!
Noah
Either way, I think it's clear at least part of the blame...lies with us.
It's only fair, then, that we destroy this "Annihilator".
Agreed?
It's only fair, then, that we destroy this "Annihilator".
Agreed?
Mio nods.
Eunie
You for real?
Lanz
I'd be up for a little detour.
Sena
Same here.
Taion
You did offer us shelter. That creates an obligation.
Riku
No way around.
Someone here need to keep friends in line. Count Riku in.
Someone here need to keep friends in line. Count Riku in.
Manana
If plan on fighting, will need first-rate chef too!
Eunie looks at Mio and remembers the end of their prior conversation.
Eunie
(in Eunie's memory)
(in Eunie's memory)
And that's it? No looking back?
Mio
(in Eunie's memory)
(in Eunie's memory)
While my de-facto partner's running full steam ahead?
I mean, I can't very well go backwards, can I now?
I mean, I can't very well go backwards, can I now?
After a couple seconds of consideration, she speaks.
Eunie
...Oh fine, go on then.
You wouldn't make it far inside the Castle without a proper Healer, anyway.
You wouldn't make it far inside the Castle without a proper Healer, anyway.
Mio
(appreciatively)
(appreciatively)
Eunie...
Bolearis
Thanks, guys... You're the best.
After a fade to black, the healing equipment is packed away.
Bolearis
I'll head back to Colony 4, in case the shit hits the fan.
Good luck then, to all of you.
Good luck then, to all of you.
Noah
Yeah. We'll be all right.
Bolearis heads off.
Taion
Remember, we're up against a Castle.
Get too close and we may come under fire.
What's our plan?
Get too close and we may come under fire.
What's our plan?
Noah
I think we'll be able to manage, as long as we're careful.
Noah remembers having gone to the Castle before, as a soldier. The top is surrounded by grey clouds.
Lanz
Come to think of it, you used to go to the Castle for off-seer training once a year, right, Noah?
He nods.
Taion
The black fog... Is there much there?
Noah
There's actually quite a bit.
Around this time the whole area is shrouded in it.
They couldn't find us in that cave in Nih'l Valley, right?
Around this time the whole area is shrouded in it.
They couldn't find us in that cave in Nih'l Valley, right?
Mio
And you think...we can repeat that?
Noah
Maybe.
Taion
Using the fog to approach is clever, but risky... What if an annihilation event occurs?
Noah
You know, I hadn't really given it much thought up until you mentioned it, but...
oddly, it hasn't been happening.
oddly, it hasn't been happening.
Taion
Seriously?
Noah
I'm not sure why.
Noah opens up the castle plans on his Iris, and highlights relevant sections as he speaks.
Noah
Behind the Castle, there's an ether deposit being mined, in an area facing a lake.
The ether being obtained there is then delivered into the Castle through a freight entrance.
The ether being obtained there is then delivered into the Castle through a freight entrance.
Eunie
So that's where we'll get our sneak on?
Noah
There won't be anyone in the containers.
If we can just get to them, without being spotted...
If we can just get to them, without being spotted...
Mio
Then we can get into the Castle.
Sena
OK, let's assume we do give the guards the slip. What do we do once we're inside the place?
Noah
Taion. The sensors. What was the Colony 4 soldiers' search radius, with the fog out?
Taion
Their scanning range...I'd put in the ballpark of 15 metri.
Noah
Look here. In the reserve area, there's a maintenance hatch that leads directly to the outer wall.
If we make it through here and get to the main housing... It'll land us in front of the Annihilator.
If we make it through here and get to the main housing... It'll land us in front of the Annihilator.
Lanz
Less chance of being spotted by troops outside, too.
Sena
We can do this.
Taion
There's one concern.
The Castle is the Queen's residence. What if we're found by the Consuls?
The Castle is the Queen's residence. What if we're found by the Consuls?
Noah
Then I guess...we'll have a fight on our hands.
But it's not like we don't have a retreat.
Here.
But it's not like we don't have a retreat.
Here.
A thin blue line running through the Castle is highlighted.
Noah
In Keves, after a Homecoming...
They wash away the belongings of the dead, as part of a ritual. It's an understated affair.
And the channel they use for it...is here.
It flows straight out, connecting to the lake outside the Castle.
They wash away the belongings of the dead, as part of a ritual. It's an understated affair.
And the channel they use for it...is here.
It flows straight out, connecting to the lake outside the Castle.
Taion
I see...
So we open a hatch near the Annihilator, ride the current, and we should come out right at the lake.
So we open a hatch near the Annihilator, ride the current, and we should come out right at the lake.
Noah nods.
Eunie
(grousing)
(grousing)
More snuffin' water.
Every time we run...why do we always end up getting drenched?
I mean... Feathers are a bitch to dry.
Every time we run...why do we always end up getting drenched?
I mean... Feathers are a bitch to dry.
Lanz
Every time being, our grand total of once.
Noah
Well, let's just hope we don't have to fight. That's the ideal case.
Mio
That's it, then.
Taion
Mmm.
Noah
Ready whatever supplies you need. Then we can go.
Ethel and Cammuravi[edit]
Ethel and Cammuravi are looking over their new Ferronises. Both look much like their previous ones, but each has a glowing purple Flame Clock.
Ethel
Of all the ways we could meet again, it ends up being this.
The irony of it all.
The irony of it all.
Cammuravi
We are bound.
That is how I see it.
That is how I see it.
Ethel
Bound?
That certainly sounds like you.
You're talking about...
That certainly sounds like you.
You're talking about...
Cammuravi
Fate.
I think that is how you would put it.
I think that is how you would put it.
Ethel
Fate, you say...
Ethel turns to look at Cammuravi.
Ethel
Why? Why did you agree?
To be reborn?
To be reborn?
Cammuravi
So you know?
Ethel
There were rumors. That you were imprisoned. That you took the blame for the Colony's seizure.
Cammuravi
It was only fitting.
Ethel remembers their final duel.
Ethel
Perhaps I should have killed you there and then.
Cammuravi
Only through death...
can our feud be resolved.
In a way, I am grateful.
Now that I have been blessed with a Ferronis,
and another chance.
can our feud be resolved.
In a way, I am grateful.
Now that I have been blessed with a Ferronis,
and another chance.
Ethel
Another chance...
They each stare at their Ferronises as they ponder. Ethel remembers being shown the Ferronis by P.
Ethel
A Ferronis...
This is for me?
This is for me?
Consul P
Absolutely.
It's been tailor-made to suit your every need.
The same goes for his Ferronis.
So you'd better make the most of it,
with what life you have left...hm?
It's been tailor-made to suit your every need.
The same goes for his Ferronis.
So you'd better make the most of it,
with what life you have left...hm?
Ethel makes a questioning noise, then looks at the purple Flame Clock.
Consul P
(condescendingly)
(condescendingly)
You've noticed! Good girl.
I guess they don't call you Silvercoat Ethel for nothing. What a clever thing you are.
Those ones are a bit special.
They're tied to both yours and Cammuravi's lives.
I guess they don't call you Silvercoat Ethel for nothing. What a clever thing you are.
Those ones are a bit special.
They're tied to both yours and Cammuravi's lives.
Ethel gasps.
Consul P
The more the two of you get heated up,
the more your power grows!
Ahh! Doesn't that sound sublime?
Even though you're released from the struggle of life,
your precious life force...
will connect straight to Origin.
the more your power grows!
Ahh! Doesn't that sound sublime?
Even though you're released from the struggle of life,
your precious life force...
will connect straight to Origin.
The flashback ends.
Cammuravi
Ouroboros...
They showed me their image, but just who are they?
They seemed like soldiers from Keves and Agnus,
but are they human?
They showed me their image, but just who are they?
They seemed like soldiers from Keves and Agnus,
but are they human?
Ethel closes her eyes.
Ethel
They're hope.
Cammuravi
Hope?
Ethel
Dreams... Desires... The future.
Yes... They are hope personified.
Yes... They are hope personified.
Cammuravi
Indeed?
They are your hope?
They are your hope?
Ethel
They are everyone's hope... Yes.
Cammuravi
(smiling slightly)
(smiling slightly)
I see.
Then there's only one choice.
Then there's only one choice.
Ethel
Yes. Only one.
Ever Dwindling Time[edit]
The party has reached the Tower Camp. Keves Castle looms in the distance.
Mio
There's Keves Castle... It'll still take a while on foot.
Noah
We'll rest here today, then head out at first light.
After nightfall, Mio and Lanz are doing the dishes with water running from a gutter above.
Mio
What a relief. I was worried, about the water.
Mio drops a plate as she washes it. It doesn't break; she quickly picks it up.
Lanz
You all right?
Mio
Y-yeah! My hand slipped.
I better wash this again.
I better wash this again.
Lanz
(concerned)
(concerned)
Hm...
Later, Mio sits alone, looking up at the full moon.
Miyabi's flute is in her lap. She looks at her hand forlornly.
Mio
(weakly)
(weakly)
Am I...losing feeling?
Her hand reaches towards her term marker. Noah strolls up cluelessly.
Noah
Tomorrow, we'll finally reach the Castle lands.
I want us to be at our readiest.
We should run one final check of everyone's equipment.
I want us to be at our readiest.
We should run one final check of everyone's equipment.
Mio turns away.
Mio
Fine for you, isn't it?
All that...time you've got.
All that...time you've got.
Noah
Hm?
Mio
(voice breaking)
(voice breaking)
We keep taking this at such a casual pace. Now Swordmarch...seems so distant.
Noah
Mio?
Mio
What am I even doing...? I can't...
Noah
(incautiously trying to fix the problem)
(incautiously trying to fix the problem)
You still have two months left.
If we take care of this now, we can ensure the Colonies' safety.
Just maybe, we can make an ally of people in the Castle.
It'll make getting to Swordmarch a bit easier-
If we take care of this now, we can ensure the Colonies' safety.
Just maybe, we can make an ally of people in the Castle.
It'll make getting to Swordmarch a bit easier-
Mio clenches her fists and stands to face Noah.
Mio
(snapping)
(snapping)
"Still"?
It's two months!
Might as well be nothing!
It's two months!
Might as well be nothing!
Noah
But... I... You did...agree to doing this...
Mio
Well, yeah, but...
I know I did, but...
I know I did, but...
Noah searches for words.
Noah
Look, I know...
it was a snap decision.
I understand why you're upset.
Let's just...
take it easy tonight, take a moment to breathe.
it was a snap decision.
I understand why you're upset.
Let's just...
take it easy tonight, take a moment to breathe.
Mio's lip trembles and her ears droop.
Mio
Why wouldn't I be upset?
Take what easy?
We rest today, and tomorrow...
Before I know it, it'll be time...
And then I'll be...
Take what easy?
We rest today, and tomorrow...
Before I know it, it'll be time...
And then I'll be...
Noah
I mean, I get that, but we-
Mio
You don't get it! Not at all!
She runs away. Noah doesn't follow.
Noah
(to himself)
(to himself)
What the spark...?
Sena
Noah, do you... D'you think you're perfect?
Sena walks over, having seen the argument.
Noah
Huh? How could I be perfect? I'm just a regular guy.
Sena
Right? Even Mimi has her faults.
We're only human.
The truth is, she's terrified.
She needs someone to tell her. That everything will be all right.
I mean you.
We're only human.
The truth is, she's terrified.
She needs someone to tell her. That everything will be all right.
I mean you.
Noah exhales.
Sena
(vulnerably)
(vulnerably)
Never seen her like this.
Poor Mimi...
She actually...tells you stuff.
Poor Mimi...
She actually...tells you stuff.
Noah
(humbly)
(humbly)
I have seen her thoughts, you know.
Sena
Nuh-nuh-nuh, I'm not talking about any of that.
She just...needed to vent.
She just...needed to vent.
Noah
She did?
Sena nods, with a bit of a grin.
Sena
I'm actually kinda jealous...
Noah
Huh?
Sena
You're an off-seer, Noah. I thought you were sharper than this.
Noah
What's that supposed to-
Sena steps forward and smiles menacingly.
Sena
You better give her a good apology later, you hear?
Got it? Promise me that.
Got it? Promise me that.
Noah
Uh... Sure...
Satisfied, Sena jogs off in the direction Mio went. Meanwhile, Lanz and Taion have been rubbernecking.
Lanz
(with a raised eyebrow)
(with a raised eyebrow)
Yeah, uh... You can count me out for any of that.
Taion
(considering it)
(considering it)
Huh.
Well...maybe...
Well...maybe...
Lanz
"Maybe"...? What you mean?
Taion looks away and pushes his glasses up defensively.
Taion
Er, uh...forget it!
In any case, it has no bearing on our objective.
In any case, it has no bearing on our objective.
Lanz
(turning to face Taion)
(turning to face Taion)
Too right.
We'll get all of this done, then next stop: the City.
We'll get all of this done, then next stop: the City.
Taion
Right.
For Mio's sake.
For Mio's sake.
Lanz
Hehehehe.
Taion 'huh?'s.
Lanz
(grinning)
(grinning)
First time we've agreed on something, eh?
Taion
It is?
Lanz
Hey!
Lanz holds up his hand for a high five.
Taion
What's that in aid of?
Lanz
Do the right thing. Come on.
Lanz wiggles his hand expectantly.
Taion
Wh-... Sorry, but I refuse to debase myself like this!
Taion walks off in a huff. The Mondo over his shoulder turns towards Lanz, seemingly apologetically, before following. Lanz drops his hand.
Lanz
(to himself, still grinning)
(to himself, still grinning)
All right. You be that way.
The next morning, Eunie stretches with a loud yawn. Sena and Lanz are doing core exercises. Riku walks over to Manana, who is still snoozing.
Manana
Mmmeeehh...
Riku taps Manana in an attempt to wake her.
Riku
Manana.
Manana
(sleeptalking)
(sleeptalking)
Cannot possibly eat portion of Riku...
Riku
Mmeh... No more snooze! Sun already hang high in sky!
Taion is checking his Iris over a cup of tea. Eunie saunters over and starts talking. Meanwhile, Noah is doing practice sword swings, much more vigorously than usual.
Noah dismisses his Blade and looks up at the sunrise. Mio approaches.
Mio
(apologetically)
(apologetically)
Sorry about...last night.
I was just feeling the pressure.
I was just feeling the pressure.
Noah
I should be sorry. I didn't realize.
...It must be tough for you, I'm sure.
...It must be tough for you, I'm sure.
Mio turns to look at him with soft eyes. She pulls out her flute.
Mio
This, uh...belonged to a friend.
We served in the same colony. She was my off-seer partner.
Miyabi was her name.
We served in the same colony. She was my off-seer partner.
Miyabi was her name.
Noah
So your off-seers...sometimes work in pairs?
Mio
Yeah. You know, I was surprised.
When you joined in, and played alongside me back then.
When you joined in, and played alongside me back then.
They remember seeing off Guernica at their first meeting.
Mio
Anyway... One day, there was an experiment...
And she... She told me to keep on living.
To live life in her stead. To fight on. But...
The stupid thing is...
And she... She told me to keep on living.
To live life in her stead. To fight on. But...
The stupid thing is...
Mio's ears droop.
Mio
(tearing up)
(tearing up)
I was the one...
who was...
older than she was.
who was...
older than she was.
She sobs to herself. Noah recalls seeing Mio's last memory of Miyabi.
Noah
Now I see... That was...
Mio collects herself and mops her eyes.
Mio
Say...
Wanna...exchange flutes?
Wanna...exchange flutes?
Noah
What? But isn't that...
Mio
(sheepishly)
(sheepishly)
I guess it's a little too...icky?
Noah
No no, I-I don't care about that!
I'm just trying to say-
I'm just trying to say-
Mio
(interrupting)
(interrupting)
I'd just like it...to be used a little longer.
To make up for the time Miyabi lost...
You'll still be around after me.
To make up for the time Miyabi lost...
You'll still be around after me.
She smiles up at him.
Noah
(smiling back)
(smiling back)
Mio...
I get it.
All right. It's a trade.
You should know, mine's seen better days too.
I get it.
All right. It's a trade.
You should know, mine's seen better days too.
Noah pulls out his own flute.
Mio
Don't worry, I don't really mind either.
They hand one another their flutes. Mio grips Noah's flute close to her chest.
Noah
Thank you. For the chat.
I'm kind of surprised.
I'm kind of surprised.
Mio
Surprised?
Noah
Even after Interlinking, there's still things I don't know about you.
Mio
(gently)
(gently)
Well, of course!
How can you when there are things I don't understand myself? You're not going to pick up on everything.
How can you when there are things I don't understand myself? You're not going to pick up on everything.
Noah
Got to put it into words first?
Mio
Yeah, but it doesn't always work, even then...
Noah
Like last night?
Mio
Oh, that? That was me being selfish.
But now, I feel like we're starting to get... on the same wavelength.
But now, I feel like we're starting to get... on the same wavelength.
Noah nods.
Noah
Maybe Interlinking...just helped that along.
To bring us a little closer together.
To bring us a little closer together.
Mio
Maybe, yeah. That might just be it.
They both turn to look out at the rising sun.
Peerless Ferronises[edit]
In an open field on Maktha Wildwood's border, the party hears something mechanical.
Mio
What's that sound?!
Ethel and Cammuravi's Ferronises are standing atop a nearby cliff.
Noah
Ferronises!
They walk off and fall down to the party's level, kicking up clouds of dirt. The party gets into battle stances.
Ethel
I told you life is short, but I didn't mean it like this!
Noah, Mio.
Noah, Mio.
Noah
That voice... Ethel?!
Ethel climbs out and stands atop the cockpit.
Noah
Ethel... But then who's the other one?
Sena
That one? It's from Agnus, right?
Taion
I recognize the crescent moon crest... Cammuravi's piloting that thing.
Cammuravi has also climbed out of the cockpit.
Noah
Cammuravi...
That's him... Ethel's sworn rival...
That's him... Ethel's sworn rival...
Mio
But why? How did they get them to work together?
Consul P
Flitting like moths...to a flame.
P and O teleport in.
Consul P
N's predictions are nothing to be sniffed at.
Gotta hand it to him.
Gotta hand it to him.
Lanz
(sardonically)
(sardonically)
Anyone else wanna show up?
Noah
(mostly to himself)
(mostly to himself)
N?
Consul O
(Nyeeeh!)
(Nyeeeh!)
I'm afraid this is about as far as you go.
Terribly sorry, chums!
Terribly sorry, chums!
Sena
I know who he is. He's the Consul from Colony Zeta!
I remember him from a...joint operation.
I remember him from a...joint operation.
Eunie
Then I guess this one's meant to be... from our side then, is she? Never seen her before.
Lanz
Probably.
So the Consuls are colludin' as well? Something's really starting to smell.
So the Consuls are colludin' as well? Something's really starting to smell.
Taion
I concur.
Ethel
I thought that my message to you was crystal clear.
Noah
Yes, we heard you.
Mio
That's why we're here!
Ethel
Hm. I thought so.
I had a hunch that this would be the path Ouroboros chose to follow.
I had a hunch that this would be the path Ouroboros chose to follow.
Noah
(worth a shot)
(worth a shot)
I don't suppose...you'll step aside for us?
Ethel
(unimpressed)
(unimpressed)
Wishful thinking. Give it up.
Ethel and Cammuravi reenter the cockpits.
Noah
Well, then... We'll do whatever it takes.
Noah
Mio
For the greater good!
Noah and Mio draw their Blades as they speak.
Ethel
(that's more like it)
(that's more like it)
Well spoken!
Then I say the same to you!
Then I say the same to you!
Ethel summons her Ferronis's twin swords.
Cammuravi
Off-seers from Keves and Agnus...
Fate binds us...
I bear none of you ill will, but my Way demands we fight!
Come then...and test your mettle against my lance!
Fate binds us...
I bear none of you ill will, but my Way demands we fight!
Come then...and test your mettle against my lance!
Cammuravi points his spear at the party. Its head erupts in flame.
Sena
You've gotta be joking!
Eunie
Mudder! I'm not testing anything against that! What happened to fighting fair?!
Taion
We won't get anywhere complaining! Ready yourself, Eunie!
Eunie
Ready, he says...
From the moment I chose this muddy path, I've been more than ready!
From the moment I chose this muddy path, I've been more than ready!
Taion
(pushing up his glasses)
(pushing up his glasses)
Hah! Oh, I know.
Eunie
Then whatcha say it for? Arsehole!
Lanz
Zip it, guys. Get ready!
They're here!
They're here!
Our Dream Will Not Perish[edit]
The fight rages on. Everyone is in Ouroboros form; the Ouroboros are holding their own, despite the Ferronises dwarfing their size. Noah and Mio swipe with Noah's sword, but Ethel blocks each attack.
Noah
Whoa.
How is it so...
fast?!
Can't find any way to-
get inside!
How is it so...
fast?!
Can't find any way to-
get inside!
The joints on Ethel's Ferronis are sparking, and warnings blare inside the cockpit. Its movement doesn't seem to be impeded, though.
Ethel
The joints...
Their sheer power really is something to behold...
Noah... Mio...
Their sheer power really is something to behold...
Noah... Mio...
Meanwhile, the other four use Lanz's and Eunie's Ouroboros form to attack Cammuravi. Lanz's Ouroboros lands on the back of Cammuravi's Ferronis's "head", but Cammuravi is able to block their attacks with his spear, then twirls it around to block shots by Eunie's Ouroboros.
Eunie
Gah! No good, eh?
Cammuravi
Good coordination.
I'd be done for, if it weren't for this Ferronis.
I'd be done for, if it weren't for this Ferronis.
Eunie jumps out of the way of Cammuravi's counterstrikes.
Eunie
(through gritted teeth)
(through gritted teeth)
Thanks for the compliment!
They change to Sena's and Taion's Ouroboros form, just in time for Cammuravi's lance to strike an illusion of Mondo. The fight continues.
Taion
Noah.
Noah
What is it?!
Taion
I think this is the decider.
OK... Let's do it.
OK... Let's do it.
Noah
Yeah, we've got this!
Meanwhile, O and P have been watching from a safe distance. P taps her foot impatiently.
Consul P
Come on, what are they playing at?!
Am I crazy?
We gave them Ferronises and everything!
They had better not be holding back.
Am I crazy?
We gave them Ferronises and everything!
They had better not be holding back.
Consul O
You think they might be underestimating us?
Us of all people?
Us of all people?
Consul P
(tapping her chin)
(tapping her chin)
Listen, O.
Ethel's a lost cause.
But Cammuravi... We could use him.
Ethel's a lost cause.
But Cammuravi... We could use him.
Consul O
(chuckling)
(chuckling)
Cammuravi?
I get what you're saying! You know, I forgot we even had that option!
I get what you're saying! You know, I forgot we even had that option!
O stands up and focuses on the Ferronises, looking through a rectangle of his fingers.
Consul O
Hmm...
Now, see the enemy before you?
Use every last ounce of strength,
and grind them to dust!
Now, see the enemy before you?
Use every last ounce of strength,
and grind them to dust!
His Iris glows. Cammuravi stops attacking and grunts in pain.
Ethel
What's wrong, Cammuravi?
Cammuravi's Iris is glowing red, and he is in visible pain, but still standing.
Consul O
(in Cammuravi's head)
(in Cammuravi's head)
Look, you can see your enemy right there!
Cammuravi
Enemy...
Th-that is...
My...
Enemy...
Th-that is...
My...
Enemy...
In Cammuravi's vision, the Ouroboros are cloaked in the same black clouds that Ethel saw when under K's control.
Cammuravi
Enemy...
Enemy!
Enemy!!!
Enemy!
Enemy!!!
Ethel
(distressed)
(distressed)
Cammuravi!
What's wrong with you?!
Cammuravi!
What's wrong with you?!
Cammuravi!
Ethel notices the Consuls.
Ethel
(gasp) Oh no...
The Iris...I knew it.
Cammuravi!
The Iris...I knew it.
Cammuravi!
Cammuravi yells and clenches his fist. He strikes up with a thrust that sends his Ferronis's lance skyward. He steadies his breathing with difficulty — black blood drips from his Iris eye's now-empty socket.
Cammuravi
(fiercely)
(fiercely)
This is...
I am...
I am under no one's yoke!
I am...
I am under no one's yoke!
Ethel
(shocked)
(shocked)
Cammuravi, you...you really...
Your own eye...
Your own eye...
Cammuravi
I will be as they are!
I am...
I am free!
I am...
I am free!
Ethel
Free...
You're right... We're free!
Free! The two of us!
You're right... We're free!
Free! The two of us!
Noah
What are you saying? Ethel, what's...?
Cammuravi
(grinning madly)
(grinning madly)
Attend, Ethel!
Ethel
(grinning equally madly)
(grinning equally madly)
Yes!
Our dream will not perish!
Our dream will not perish!
The two face each other and begin fighting, their battle with Ouroboros forgotten. Said Ouroboros have stopped in confusion.
Lanz
Uh? What the snuff's going on?!
Taion
Are the Consuls doing this?!
Mio
No!
This is... It's what *they* want!
This is... It's what *they* want!
Ethel
(joyously)
(joyously)
Absolutely right, Mio!
Mio
Ethel?!
Ethel
Ever since I met you all,
I have admired you!
I have admired you!
Mio
Admired us?!
Ethel
Your freedom!
I bless the fortune I have had...in meeting all of you!
You have...my gratitude!
I bless the fortune I have had...in meeting all of you!
You have...my gratitude!
Noah
Gratitude?
Cammuravi
This feeling of elation...
Liberating, is it not?
Liberating, is it not?
Ethel
I feel it too, Cammuravi!
Meanwhile, O is wiggling nervously. P stomps her foot.
Consul P
Wh-what are they fighting each other for?!
O?
O?
Consul O
Uhh... I-I can't believe this!
He... He won't listen to any of my commands!
He... He won't listen to any of my commands!
Noah
Ethel! Why in flames do you have to fight each other?!
We're supposed to be your enemies!
We're supposed to be your enemies!
Ethel
I told you, Noah.
Observe. This here is the purpose of my life!
Just know... You were the ones who finally opened my eyes!
Observe. This here is the purpose of my life!
Just know... You were the ones who finally opened my eyes!
Consul P
Stop this!
Stop it this instant!
Ethel!
Cammuravi!
Stop it this instant!
Ethel!
Cammuravi!
The two keep fighting, ignoring P entirely. P grunts in annoyance.
Consul P
In that case...!
P's Iris flashes. Red motes start to pour from the purple Flame Clocks.
Sena
Their Flame Clocks!!!
Taion
This is weird! Look at the way the light is moving!
Noah
Is that...
Is that their life force we're seeing?
Is that their life force we're seeing?
Within the cockpits, red motes fly off Ethel and Cammuravi too. They ignore this, continuing to clash relentlessly.
Consul P
(furiously)
(furiously)
Have you gone completely insane?
You were supposed to kill Ouroboros!
So stop this senseless fighting and obliterate those brats!
You were supposed to kill Ouroboros!
So stop this senseless fighting and obliterate those brats!
Consul P
(suddenly dangerously soft)
(suddenly dangerously soft)
If you don't...
I'll take your precious little life,
and drain it dry!
I'll take your precious little life,
and drain it dry!
Eunie
Wha- Did you hear that?!
Noah
I knew it. So they really can drain their life!
Ethel! Cammuravi!
Ethel! Cammuravi!
Taion
Noah! We have to kill the Consuls!
Noah
You're right!
Noah runs toward the Consuls, but Ethel steps in their way mid-parry.
Ethel
It's OK, Noah...
It's over for us now.
It's over for us now.
Noah
That's rubbish! Ethel!
Mio
This is wrong. All of this is wrong!
There's no reason for you two to be fighting each other!
There's no reason for you two to be fighting each other!
Ethel
You might not understand now,
but someday you will.
This is what I...
This is what both of us want!
but someday you will.
This is what I...
This is what both of us want!
Noah
How can... How can any of this be what you want?!
You're both gonna die!
You're both gonna die!
Ethel
What we leave you is more important!
All our aspirations...
You must keep them in your hearts!
You must take them...
Make it all mean something!
You have to live...
You must live on!
All our aspirations...
You must keep them in your hearts!
You must take them...
Make it all mean something!
You have to live...
You must live on!
The last blow has sent Ethel and Cammuravi several paces away from one another. They stand facing each other.
Ethel
(eyes widening)
(eyes widening)
Here I come, Cammuravi!
Cammuravi
(readying himself)
(readying himself)
Let us cross blades, one last time!
They yell as they charge towards each other. Their final strike ends with their Ferronises in embrace-like contact. Both have blissful smiles on their faces as they evaporate into red motes.
Mio
Ethel!!!
The Feronnises are motionless as their lights go out.
Mio
Ethel...
Noah and Mio cancel their Interlink.
♫
Consul P
(flippantly)
(flippantly)
Tsk.
Well didn't they come in handy?
What was N thinking, picking those reckless hotheads?
Well didn't they come in handy?
What was N thinking, picking those reckless hotheads?
Consul O
Good grief.
Looks like...
we're just gonna have to wipe out this lot ourselves!
Looks like...
we're just gonna have to wipe out this lot ourselves!
The party turns toward the Consuls, anger writ plain on their faces.
Noah
You scumbags...
Consul P
Fine then.
I did expect something like this. Time for Plan B.
Interlinking...
You've been blessed with quite the talent. You feel special?
I did expect something like this. Time for Plan B.
Interlinking...
You've been blessed with quite the talent. You feel special?
Noah
What now?
Consul P
I do hate to burst your bubble...
but I'm afraid it's not just an Ouroboros thing.
O?
but I'm afraid it's not just an Ouroboros thing.
O?
Consul O
I'm ready when you are!
Hah!
Hah!
Consul P
Then...shall we?
The two Consuls each take on their Moebius form.
Lanz
Moebius...
Moebius P
Now, feast your eyes!
Purple lightning crackles around P and O. Their bodies deform and then reform as one giant creature, with a face on each side of its body.
Eunie
Ugh, can't unsee!
Moebius P
(waggling her finger)
(waggling her finger)
Do try to curb your disgust, you dirty pleb.
P speaks from the front face. They swivel to let O speak from the back face.
Moebius O
Hah!
We'll have you know that this is the true form of Interlinking!
We'll have you know that this is the true form of Interlinking!
Moebius P
Yes. The form in which two worlds become one.
A far more refined form than this...half-assed one you've stumbled upon.
Look upon us and tremble before perfection!
You'll writhe in agony before we-
A far more refined form than this...half-assed one you've stumbled upon.
Look upon us and tremble before perfection!
You'll writhe in agony before we-
P is interrupted by Mio's fist flying into her face. The Moebius is sent tumbling back a surprisingly long distance. The rest of the party gapes at Mio, who is breathing heavily.
Noah
Mio...?
Mio
Stop...
Moebius P
Stop?
Mio
(apoplectic)
(apoplectic)
Stop toying...with everyone's lives!!!
Thunder strikes as Mio yells.
Mio
What did they ever do to you? Why? All they wanted was their wish to be realized!
You turned everything into a game! Cast them away like dolls!
These are our lives here!
They're not some toys you can just play with!
You turned everything into a game! Cast them away like dolls!
These are our lives here!
They're not some toys you can just play with!
Sena
Mimi's right!
I've got no idea who you truly are. Though I hate to admit it.
However, I do know one thing!
You guys really make my sparks fly!
I've got no idea who you truly are. Though I hate to admit it.
However, I do know one thing!
You guys really make my sparks fly!
Eunie
You there, in the back. Feeling lonely 'cause you haven't been punched yet?
You better enjoy that while it lasts, 'cause I'm about to rearrange both your mugs!
You better enjoy that while it lasts, 'cause I'm about to rearrange both your mugs!
Taion
Usually I'm not one for outward displays of emotion.
But not today!
But not today!
Lanz
Noah, you better not stop us!
Noah
Oh believe me, I won't.
You make me laugh. Us, "half-arsed"?
Our conviction has never been stronger!
And now...we will show no mercy.
By Ethel and Cammuravi's lives, I swear...
I'll make you pay!
You make me laugh. Us, "half-arsed"?
Our conviction has never been stronger!
And now...we will show no mercy.
By Ethel and Cammuravi's lives, I swear...
I'll make you pay!
The party members drew their Blades as they spoke. The Moebius picks itself up off the ground and launches toward them, landing on all fours before standing up.
Moebius P
You Ouroboros brats!
Moebius P
Come on then!
This time,
you shall tremble
before our perfection!
This time,
you shall tremble
before our perfection!
Annihilation Event[edit]
The fight is going poorly for O and P. Mio, Eunie, and Sena's Ouroboros forms attack it from all sides. Their cores are glowing brightly, and the Interlink is audibly bleeping. Mio's Ouroboros lands some solid hits.
Moebius P
...How could this be...?
Our offense and defense...
They were perfect!
Our offense and defense...
They were perfect!
Sena's Ouroboros swings with her hammer. The Moebius shield, but Sena keeps pushing the attack through.
Sena
Aaaaaaaarrgh!
The shield breaks and the hammer clocks O's face.
Moebius O
How did they...?!
H-how could they?!
How are they so strong?!
That damn noise!
Shut UP with your infernal beeping!
H-how could they?!
How are they so strong?!
That damn noise!
Shut UP with your infernal beeping!
Moebius P
Don't go telling us our time is up now!
We were only just getting to the best part!
We were only just getting to the best part!
They right themselves.
Moebius P
(gasping)
(gasping)
I'll take these half-brains,
and throttle the life out of 'em!
I can still...
I can still do this!
Nothing for it. Go for full Interlink!
O!
and throttle the life out of 'em!
I can still...
I can still do this!
Nothing for it. Go for full Interlink!
O!
The Ouroboros take a step back as O and P begin charging up. Their cores burn more intensely and power collects in their fists.
Moebius P
Aaarrrggghhh!
Better brace yourselves. 'Cause you're gonna have a hard time...stopping this!
Better brace yourselves. 'Cause you're gonna have a hard time...stopping this!
P barely manages to finish the sentence before a kick from Mio's Ouroboros to the face sends them sprawling close to the edge of a nearby cliff. When the dust clears, the Moebius struggles to stand.
Moebius P
You're Ouroboros... Nobodies...
You are nothing...to Moebius...!
You are nothing...to Moebius...!
The Moebius cores are glowing dangerously bright, and the ground burns with dark purple flame where they touch it. A wind emanates outwards from their bodies, making the Ouroboros flinch.
Eunie
Oi, oi! Things are lookin' pretty snuffed up!
Taion
Noah, something's strange!
Despite all the power, the Moebius is walking extremely slowly. Though they speak together, their voices increasingly desynchronise.
Moebius P
Moebius O
Y-you'll never...get away with this!
Neveeeeer!
Ne...ne...ne...?
Neveeeeer!
Ne...ne...ne...?
As the light from their cores becomes blinding, P and O halt entirely. An explosion of purple light emanates outward from them; after it passes, the wind stops blowing outward and starts pulling inward.
Moebius P
Moebius O
Wh-what's this light?!
What's happening?!
Wh-why can't we move-?!
What's happening?!
Wh-why can't we move-?!
Black fog begins to coalesce, drawn in with the winds toward the Moebius.
Taion
The black fog?!
Taion remembers the spheres of emptiness in Eagus Wilderness.
Taion
No...the annihilation effect?!
Noah
What? Are you sure?!
Taion
Noah! We have to get away from them!
We have to retreat!
We have to retreat!
Sena
We're not gonna make it...!
They swap to Lanz's Ouroboros, which puts up a shield in a last-ditch attempt.
Lanz
Oh shit!
Noah
Mio!
Mio
I'm on it!
Mio's Ouroboros dashes straight towards the Moebius, black fog now pouring into its cores, as Taion's Ouroboros puts its own shield up.
Taion
Huh? Mio, what are you-
As they approach the Moebius, Mio's Ouroboros leaps up and they cancel their Interlink. Noah unsheathes Lucky Seven, and Noah and Mio both grip the hilt with both hands.
Noah
This is it!
Mio
It's the only...
way!!!
way!!!
Noah and Mio drive Lucky Seven into the earth right before the Moebius's feet. The ground cracks and crumbles off the cliff, taking the Moebius with it. Noah and Mio run back towards safe ground, the other Ouroboros running to shield them just before a blinding explosion blasts over the landscape. Below the cliff edge, the Moebius annihilate into a sphere of emptiness, rubble frozen in midair around the border. When the blast dies down, the others cancel their Interlinks.
Noah
Is it over...?
Sena
Are we...all in one piece?
Lanz
Yeah... Think I've got all my limbs attached.
Eunie
(cough) Queen's fingers, that was close!
Taion
(pleased)
(pleased)
Quite a snap decision there, Noah.
Noah
That was Mio's doing.
I'm very impressed.
I'm very impressed.
Mio
It was easy.
I do know how you think.
I do know how you think.
Mio turns around slowly towards where Ethel and Cammuravi's Ferronises stand. She and Noah approach in silence, each other's flutes in hand, before beginning to play.
Blue motes rise out of the empty cockpits and fill the air. Nobody speaks, although Mio sheds a tear, as they play through the entire piece.
At night, the party have made camp in a corner of the field, and are sitting around the fireplace.
At night, the party have made camp in a corner of the field, and are sitting around the fireplace.
Lanz
Noah. Can I ask a weird question?
Noah
Sure.
Lanz
In that ceremony... You didn't send..."them" off?
Noah
(audibly tired)
(audibly tired)
No, today's been a bit much.
I'm only human.
I'm only human.
Lanz
I know, right? Well then. That's a relief.
Mio
(softly)
(softly)
It's wrong. That shouldn't be what gives our lives purpose.
Wasn't there a different way? A better one?
Wasn't there a different way? A better one?
Lanz
Those two...fought for their ideal...
Something more important than their lives.
Something more important than their lives.
Eunie
Honor? Or pride?
Taion
Satisfaction, perhaps?
No, that's wrong...
Something we can't put into words.
No, that's wrong...
Something we can't put into words.
Mio
Yeah, but what? Can it really be that important?
Taion
I can't say.
Sena
Do you think they found it...? That..."something"?
Lanz
Be nice if they did.
Noah
You think so?
They turn to look at Noah.
Noah
I just...
Seems...so sad.
Seems...so sad.
Mio turns to look back at the campfire.
The next morning, Mio approaches Noah after his morning sword practice.
The next morning, Mio approaches Noah after his morning sword practice.
Noah
Sleep well?
Mio
Yeah... Well, sort of.
Noah
Well... Your eyes are red.
Mio
(frowning)
(frowning)
Hey, shut up... So what if they are?
Noah has to bend back to avoid a poke in the forehead. Mio turns and crosses her arms.
Mio
But...
I know what I have to do.
Everything's so...clear now.
I know what I have to do.
Everything's so...clear now.
Noah
Same here.
Mio
We'd better hurry. After all...the threat's not gone.
Noah
Yeah. That's true.
Noah
(smiling slightly)
(smiling slightly)
Heh.
Mio
Hm?
Noah
You surprised me.
Noah mimes a punch to the jaw. Mio bashfully puts a hand behind her head.
Mio
You did too. I... I didn't think you were the sort to take such a stand.
Noah
Sometimes, we're left with no other choice.
Mio
Mmm.
Yeah. I think you're right.
Absolutely right.
Yeah. I think you're right.
Absolutely right.
They look back toward the Ferronises.
Mio
What do we do about...Ethel?
Noah
When things are settled, we'll let Colony 4 know.
It's what she'd want. I'm certain of it.
It's what she'd want. I'm certain of it.
Mio
Yeah, you're right. She'd be...happy.
The two head back to the others.
Taking that First Step[edit]
Sena and Taion walk at the back of the pack as the party enters the Syra Hovering Reefs.
Sena
(pensively)
(pensively)
I wonder... How do you think Ethel felt?
Was that really what she wanted?
Was that really what she wanted?
Taion
(thinking mode)
(thinking mode)
This is my personal opinion, but...
Life's defined by moments. Your acts define you.
I think she found value in that.
To achieve something in the limited time left to her,
one defining moment was what she chose.
Life's defined by moments. Your acts define you.
I think she found value in that.
To achieve something in the limited time left to her,
one defining moment was what she chose.
Sena
You think Mimi...feels the same way?
Taion
(sadly, then resolutely)
(sadly, then resolutely)
I gave you my opinion. I'm sure Mio has her own thoughts on the matter.
Although, I know she doesn't have that much time left.
And hence, my being here now.
Although, I know she doesn't have that much time left.
And hence, my being here now.
Sena
So...you've chosen your path.
Taion
Until now I was afraid to take that first step.
But now...
I can do it.
But now...
I can do it.
Sena
(with a bit of anxiety)
(with a bit of anxiety)
Man.
Meanwhile, D, N, and Joran watch the reefs from Keves Castle.
Joran
You really think they'll come?
N
(eyes narrowing)
(eyes narrowing)
They'll come.
You can count on it.
You can count on it.
Consul D
(chuckling)
(chuckling)
Yeah? And then what?
If you wanna give 'em a hug, you can count me out of it.
If you wanna give 'em a hug, you can count me out of it.
N
I want to show something to "Her Majesty".
Consul D
Yeah? And what's that, then?
I mean, she's not even-
I mean, she's not even-
N
(adamantly)
(adamantly)
She needs to be there to see how hope dies.
Joran
What's this about now?
N
She can see it.
They turn to look at the Queen of Keves.
N
"Her Majesty" occupies the same niche of existence as we do.
Within the Castle's Vicinity, Part 1[edit]
The party arrives at a large gate.
Noah
Just past that gate, we'll find the Colony 11 garrison.
Beyond that is a residential zone. From there, there's a road to the Castle's main gate.
Beyond that is a residential zone. From there, there's a road to the Castle's main gate.
Riku
Gate penetration would not be easy.
Expect huge battle.
Expect huge battle.
Noah
Yeah.
So we'll take a detour through the hovering reefs to the right and swing around behind the Castle.
So we'll take a detour through the hovering reefs to the right and swing around behind the Castle.
Paths between said hovering reefs consist of tightrope-like wires, connecting a chain of islands to the Castle.
Noah
That's where we'll find the ether mine and freight entrance I mentioned.
Taion
Understood.
We shouldn't be hanging around here for long. Let's make for those "reefs", as you called them.
We shouldn't be hanging around here for long. Let's make for those "reefs", as you called them.
Noah
Good. This way.
Follow me.
Follow me.
They head towards a wire connecting to the first reef.
Within the Castle's Vicinity, Part 2[edit]
Much closer to the Castle, the party spies a collection of Kevesi transport Levnises around some ether deposits.
Lanz
There it is.
Black fog, too. Few enough numbers to sneak around.
Black fog, too. Few enough numbers to sneak around.
Sena
Is Colony 4 gonna be safe, do you think?
Mio
They should be OK. We haven't seen the light for a while.
I think that's a good sign.
I think that's a good sign.
Taion
Let's move. The fact that we killed Consuls must be old news at this point.
Could have made examples of a few people by now.
Could have made examples of a few people by now.
Eunie
They ain't expecting us to sneak aboard, though. We've got 'em with their pants down.
Let's get in there, mess 'em up, get out, bish bash bosh.
Let's get in there, mess 'em up, get out, bish bash bosh.
Noah
Actually...
They may have already...anticipated our moves.
They may have already...anticipated our moves.
Lanz
Nah, mate. Come off it.
Noah
Think about it... How would they have known where we'd be?
Lanz
Uh...
Noah
Can't be a coincidence.
I mean sure, it could have been intuition on Ethel's part,
but we have to be realistic.
I mean sure, it could have been intuition on Ethel's part,
but we have to be realistic.
Eunie
So it's a trap? You wanna turn back?
Noah
No...we'll go.
We can't turn back now. We can't allow their deaths to have been in vain.
We can't turn back now. We can't allow their deaths to have been in vain.
Taion
So you would entertain the risk?
Noah
It does sound bad.
Taion
(appreciatively)
(appreciatively)
You know, I think I kind of like it.
Noah's eyebrows raise with a slight smile. Unbeknownst to the Ouroboros, they are being watched by a young woman — the same one who took Guernica's eyepatch.
Mission Briefing[edit]
- "Mission Briefing" redirects here. For the music track in Xenosaga: Pied Piper, see Mission Briefing (XSPP).
The party watches as Levnises mine ether and transport it to the nearby Castle.
Sena
Looks like you were right, Noah. There's a whole bunch of containers here.
Manana
A welcome gift for easy sneakings!
Noah
Let's go over this again.
First, we get to those containers without being spotted.
With me so far?
First, we get to those containers without being spotted.
With me so far?
Eunie
Anyone spots us, we're like ninjas. We take 'em out quickly and silently.
Noah nods and pulls up the Keves Castle plans on his Iris.
Noah
Once we're inside, we pick the right opportunity to proceed through the hangar.
Our goal...is here.
Our goal...is here.
A spot inside Keves Castle is highlighted.
Mio
The maintenance hatch, that leads outside.
Riku
From there we head to outer deck.
Noah
Right.
Enemy presence should be lower around there. Then we move to the main housing.
Enemy presence should be lower around there. Then we move to the main housing.
Lanz
Assuming we get there, how do we trash it?
Taion
I can brief you on the next steps.
Noah gives Taion a nod.
Taion
After analyzing the data we got from Bolearis, I discovered a flaw in the Annihilator's construction.
Riku
A weak point?
Taion
Indeed. Here.
The Iris highlights a blue line running from the top of the Castle to its heart, then to the Annihilator on the outside.
Taion
The weapon is designed to temporarily render the black fog inactive, condense and collect it, then release it in one blast.
Our best bet is to destroy the neutralizer assembly from which it draws its power,
but it's located in the Castle interior. Getting there will be no joke.
Once there, we'll need to damage the auto-balancer in the barrel's housing.
Our best bet is to destroy the neutralizer assembly from which it draws its power,
but it's located in the Castle interior. Getting there will be no joke.
Once there, we'll need to damage the auto-balancer in the barrel's housing.
A structure attached to the back of the Annihilator is highlighted.
Taion
Most likely it was built in a hurry. The movable barrel is affixed to this outer ring that you see here.
The ring encircles the Castle.
Taion
But the ring isn't strong enough to take the barrel's weight or absorb the recoil.
That's why the auto-balancer was added after construction, as an afterthought.
That's why the auto-balancer was added after construction, as an afterthought.
Eunie
So what, we've just gotta smash that thing to pieces?
Taion
Smash it and the entire ring begins to fall apart, and the barrel collapses under its own weight.
Mio
How strong is the auto-balancer?
Not too sturdy?
Not too sturdy?
Taion
Nothing Ouroboros can't handle.
Eunie
So, what's this thing?
The Iris highlights a structure atop the ring where the Annihilator is affixed.
Taion
That is a refrigeration unit - the barrel needs vast amounts of energy.
It would have to be kept cool at all times, to keep the energy in check.
It would have to be kept cool at all times, to keep the energy in check.
Eunie
I'm surprised it's so huge.
Taion
Seems that was built quickly too. It's got both bulk and heft to it.
They probably couldn't have made it any smaller.
They probably couldn't have made it any smaller.
Eunie
Hmm. A rush job, huh.
Lanz
OK then. We all good to go?
Noah
Yeah. No more taking it easy. Let's make this happen.
The others nod.
Castle Invasion![edit]
The party has successfully entered a storage container and been transported to Keves Castle without being seen. In the hangar, they regroup behind some tall containers.
Sena
So, where's the maintenance hatch?
Taion checks his Iris.
Taion
It's in the reserve area on the upper level.
First we'll need to take the elevator that can get us up to that floor.
First we'll need to take the elevator that can get us up to that floor.
They look to a freight elevator one level up.
Eunie
I don't see any guards.
Manana
Too foggy, for taste of Manana.
Lanz
If we're gonna move, now's the time.
Noah
That said, we are indoors. Move fast, but keep your eyes peeled.
Mio
Yeah, of course.
Not Long Until Annihilation[edit]
The party runs out of the maintenance hatch.
Riku
Riku see!
There is Annihilator!
There is Annihilator!
Said Annihilator is as big as a Ferronis, with the cooling unit glowing yellow-hot on top.
Manana
(shocked)
(shocked)
Bigger than Homecoming pudding!
Eunie
That's huge. Think of the firepower... Two or three colonies could, like, be wiped off the map with one shot of that.
Mio
We have to hurry! If it starts moving now...
Noah nods.
Noah
If the map is correct, the auto-balancer should be in that housing.
Noah looks at the section of the Annihilator directly against the ring.
Sena
That's what we're after, right?
Noah
Yeah.
The party runs off towards it.
D and Joran[edit]
The party has reached the Annihilator.
Noah
It looks even bigger, seeing it up close...
Taion looks up at a mass connecting to the ring.
Taion
Noah. That's the auto-balancer.
Noah
Right. Just like on the map.
Lanz
Well then, let's get to it. Sena!
Sena
My pleasure!
Lanz takes a step forward, but is stopped immediately by a glowing talon spearing the ground before his feet. He and Sena brace themselves as the talon explodes, then look up to see a Moebius — the same one from the first encounter at Gura Flava Lowlands, whom the audience knows is called D.
Moebius D
Sorry pals, 'fraid I can't let you do that.
Noah
You?!
Moebius D
(casually)
(casually)
'Sup? Been a while, eh?
Lanz
Moebius... How'd you figure it out?
Moebius D
(audibly eye-rolling)
(audibly eye-rolling)
You lot aren't too bright, are you?
Sure, we can't pinpoint your exact position inside all the black fog...
but we can get a general idea where you're hanging out.
Once we picked up your reading near the Castle, we knew.
I mean, what, you were just passing through, were you?
You'd have to be an idiot to think that.
Sure, we can't pinpoint your exact position inside all the black fog...
but we can get a general idea where you're hanging out.
Once we picked up your reading near the Castle, we knew.
I mean, what, you were just passing through, were you?
You'd have to be an idiot to think that.
Lanz
Grrr!
Eunie's expression has turned fearful. She remembers the similar Moebius destroying the colony around her from her nightmare. Taion's voice snaps her back into reality.
Taion
(concerned)
(concerned)
Eunie? What is it?
Eunie
(hesitantly)
(hesitantly)
It's... Nothing.
This guy just does my head in, is all.
This guy just does my head in, is all.
Manana
He very condescending.
Lanz
I couldn't agree more. Let's shut him up then.
Moebius D
Hehehehehehe...
The Moebius teleports down to the party's level and transforms into Consul form. Both D and Joran are standing there after the transformation.
Lanz
(frowning)
(frowning)
Joran... You're here too...
Joran chuckles blithely. D undoes his helmet to reveal the face of a young adult man.
Noah
So that's what you look like...
Consul D
(smugly)
(smugly)
Whadda ya think? Quite the looker, eh?
Sena
I knew it was a trap!
Joran
I'm not entirely sure I would say "trap" exactly.
Eh, you'd have to ask N for the details.
Eh, you'd have to ask N for the details.
Noah
(brows furrowing, to himself)
(brows furrowing, to himself)
N?
Consul D
So you took down P and O, didja?
Not bad at all!
Not bad at all!
Joran
(incredulously)
(incredulously)
Good riddance, I say. Idiots.
I mean, going past the time limit while Interlinking? Who does that?
Dumbest thing I've ever heard!
I mean, going past the time limit while Interlinking? Who does that?
Dumbest thing I've ever heard!
Taion
So that really was it. The time limit.
Consul D
Well, since you lot have already tangled with them, we can make this quick.
I'm just glad I won't have to explain this.
I'm just glad I won't have to explain this.
Joran
Yes. Why even explain?
The two transform back into two Moebius. Joran's is short and stout, with a helmet like a jester and large hands, while D's is taller and looks like the original Moebius, but lacking the hammerhead-like head shape. It's definitely the same Moebius from Eunie's memory. After a second, they Interlink into the familiar monster.
Taion
(unamused)
(unamused)
How typical.
Joran
So? Loads better than P and O, right?
Hehehe!
Hehehe!
Riku
Can beat them this time?
Lanz
Won't know until we try!
Sena
Well, what are we gonna try?! Joran's in there, you know?
Lanz
(still angry)
(still angry)
Yeah, I noticed!
Eunie
N-Noah?!
Noah
No time to think!
For Ethel's sake... We have to destroy the Annihilator!
For Ethel's sake... We have to destroy the Annihilator!
The party draws their weapons.
The Annihilator Activates[edit]
The ring surrounding Keves Castle glows and begins to rotate.
Manana
Annihilator has started moving!
Riku
This is bad, Noah!
The fight is still going on. Noah and Mio interlink, running towards the Annihilator.
Noah
I see it!
The Interlink of D and J lands directly in front of them and blocks their path. Lanz and Sena join in with their own Interlink; D and J fight both of them at once, with seemingly little effort. D is loving being menacing — each of his gestures and lines are performed with maximum intimidation.
Moebius D
No you don't!
Haa!
Haa!
The Moebius parries attacks from both sides, then ripostes by punching Lanz's Ouroboros's arm clean off. Lanz yells. The Moebius quickly turns around to block Noah's Ouroboros's sword swipe, then forces them back as they switch to Mio's Ouroboros.
Moebius D
Whatcha slackin' around for?
If you don't hurry...
the Colony's gonna be a pile of ash!
If you don't hurry...
the Colony's gonna be a pile of ash!
Mio's Ouroboros's left arm is severed. The Moebius catches her follow-up kick and flings her across the battlefield. Meanwhile, Eunie's Ouroboros is hesitating, a good distance away.
Taion
Eunie! What are you doing?!
The Moebius turns to look at her. Eunie's Ouroboros flinches, jumps up and attacks with a rain of small projectiles from her wings. The Moebius simply takes it, standing still as if it were actual rain, grinning up at Eunie. After a few seconds, it teleports as Mio's Ouroboros grows its arm back.
Mio
(urgently)
(urgently)
Behind you, Eunie!
Eunie
Huh?!
The Moebius has reappeared directly behind Eunie's Ouroboros. It catches her head mid-flinch and tosses her into the Annihilator, then follows up with a much more powerful hail of bolts, incapacitating the Ouroboros.
Taion
What's the matter, Eunie?! You're too slow!
Eunie's Ouroboros struggles to get up. D looks at her with a sinister grin, visible to the audience in the Interlink space.
Moebius D
Girly.
I think we've met before.
I think we've met before.
Both Taion and Eunie gasp.
Eunie
Wh-what?
Moebius D
Heh heh heh... Those eyes!
You're afraid, aren't you?
Why so scared?
You're afraid, aren't you?
Why so scared?
Eunie's eyes are wide and pupils are small as she remembers the talon against her eye. D's grin carries over into the Moebius's expression.
Moebius D
I'll kill you whenever you cross my path!
Taion
Let me lead! I'll handle this!
Taion swaps his Ouroboros form in and narrowly dodges some bolts.
Taion
Go, Mondo!
The Mondo fly out of the Ouroboros and attack the Moebius from multiple angles. The attacks are deftly dodged.
Moebius D
You're not hittin' me!
Taion
Hah! Sure about that?
Moebius D
What?
Taion
Bind!
The Mondo, which have been positioned all around the Moebius, tighten in and prevent the Moebius from moving.
Taion
Scatter!
The Mondo surrounding the Moebius explode, kicking up a cloud of dust.
Sena
We won?!
Noah
(eyes narrowing)
(eyes narrowing)
No...
The Moebius launches itself from the dust cloud, surrounded by green healing energy.
Taion
What?!
Before Taion can react, it grabs his Ouroboros' head and throws him into the Annihilator housing.
Lanz
(venomously)
(venomously)
Joran...
Joran
(pleased with himself)
(pleased with himself)
Sorry, I don't think so.
You'll have to do something about me first.
You'll never win this otherwise.
Heh heh heh!
You'll have to do something about me first.
You'll never win this otherwise.
Heh heh heh!
Taion's Ouroboros flops to the ground. The Moebius lands in front of it. Lanz's Ouroboros starts charging at the Annihilator, switching to Sena's.
Lanz
Well then... We'll just have to take out this!
Sena
Mimi! You gotta keep them busy!
Mio
I'll do that!
Mio's Ouroboros jumps at the Moebius from behind. The Moebius tilts its head very slightly before a storm of bolts dismembers both Sena's and Mio's Ouroboros.
Moebius D
What, you thought this was just a fashion choice?
The Moebius points to the glowing horns to either side of its head.
Moebius D
These can sense the slightest shifts in the air.
Kind of a sensor, really.
Even without looking at you,
I can tell exactly what you're doing, so you brats better learn fast!
Kind of a sensor, really.
Even without looking at you,
I can tell exactly what you're doing, so you brats better learn fast!
It picks up Taion's Ouroboros and flings it back away from the Annihilator. Eunie's form swaps back in as it rolls. The Annihilator has gotten into position and is now charging up. The Moebius tauntingly beckons at the three sprawling Ouroboros forms. Eunie whimpers as the Moebius stands upright. The other two Ouroboros switch to Lanz and Noah's forms, and run at the Moebius.
Taion
The Annihilator!
While Eunie gasps for breath, the other two Ouroboros are getting their rears handed to them.
Taion
Eunie, what are you-?! Move!
If you won't move, let me-
If you won't move, let me-
Eunie
(whispering)
(whispering)
Taion...
Eunie says something to Taion that the audience doesn't hear. Taion's eyes widen. Meanwhile, Lanz's Ouroboros's torso has been kicked clean off its legs and rolls until it bounces unceremoniously off Eunie's. The Moebius, now standing alone, narrows its eyes at Eunie. Eunie screams, summons her Ouroboros's cannon, and swipes it wildly at the Moebius, grunting loudly. The Moebius easily dodges, even shrugging at her between swipes. After a few seconds, it catches the cannon under its arm. Eunie struggles to pull it free.
Moebius D
Getting desperate?
Noah
Eunie?!
D chuckles and holds the Moebius's talon up to Eunie's Ouroboros' head, just as in her dream.
Moebius D
Or maybe you've realized that the end is nigh.
Eunie yells and fires her cannon from under the Moebius's arm. The sustained blast hits the Annihilator's housing, to D's surprise. He lifts his arm, redirecting the cannon harmlessly to the ground. Eunie switches attacks, freeing herself and causing the Moebius to jump back. It has no trouble dodging a variety of attacks. Flying towards the Moebius, Eunie switches to weak feather-like attacks, which uncharacteristically stick into the Annihilator housing this time. The Moebius stops dodging, tanking the hits to get behind Eunie and choke-slam her into the Annihilator.
Moebius D
I thought I told you...
I can read your every movement in the air!
I can read your every movement in the air!
Eunie's expression suddenly changes from fearful to smirking.
Eunie
Hah!
Moebius D
Huh?
Eunie
All you're sensing...is the area around you.
Moebius D
What's your point?
Eunie
Well, if I make some distance, looks like you can sense...spark all!
The Ouroboros within the Moebius's hands disappears with a cloud of Mondo. The Moebius, now holding nothing, falls down against the Annihilator, where Taion's Ouroboros has suddenly appeared behind him.
Moebius D
An illusion?!
Taion
Just so!
Taion's Ouroboros snaps its fingers. The "feathers" sticking into the Annihilator reveal themselves to be Mondo.
Taion
(emphatically)
(emphatically)
Scatter!
The Mondo detonate simultaneously, cloaking the auto-balancer in an explosion.
Moebius D
Son of a-
You did that at the start?!
You did that at the start?!
Before the Moebius can move, Eunie has switched back to her own Ouroboros and shoots its appendages at it, pinning it to the ground.
Eunie
Heh... Thought you had my number?
You were so into my fear that you didn't notice what changed!
You were so into my fear that you didn't notice what changed!
Eunie's Ouroboros floats down directly over the Moebius.
Eunie
And sure, I was scared. But even then...
You'll find I'm no quitter!
You'll find I'm no quitter!
D has left Menacing Mode and entered Panic Mode. Explosions rock the Annihilator housing. He yells in pain as the Moebius tears its body free from the pin (leaving its arms behind) and tries to shuffle away from the Ouroboros.
Eunie
You ain't escapin'!
Eunie resummons the appendages and fires them again, trapping the Moebius against the Annihilator. Her Ouroboros presses her foot against the Moebius's head.
Taion
Eunie!
As the Annihilator starts to fall, Eunie jumps away.
Moebius D
(panic-ordering)
(panic-ordering)
J! Split up now!
Joran
(also worried)
(also worried)
Got it.
The falling Annihilator explodes in a gigantic blast. Eunie's Ouroboros blocks it with difficulty, alongside Mio's and Sena's.
Once the explosion is over, the party exits their Interlinks and peers over the edge where the Annihilator and Moebius fell.
Once the explosion is over, the party exits their Interlinks and peers over the edge where the Annihilator and Moebius fell.
Lanz
Are they dead?
Taion
No... I shot one of my Mondo into their body.
The audience is briefly shown when the Moebius tanked one of the feather projectiles — now known to have been Mondo.
Taion
I sense it's still there.
I'd say it's likely they got away.
I'd say it's likely they got away.
Lanz
That right...?
The others grimace.
Taion
Eunie... Have you ever met him before?
As in before we became Ouroboros, I mean.
As in before we became Ouroboros, I mean.
Eunie
(uncomfortably)
(uncomfortably)
No idea...
But I think that...something inside me remembers.
That guy...and his claws...
But I think that...something inside me remembers.
That guy...and his claws...
Noah
Maybe that has to do with Moebius too.
Why they exist here in our world.
Why they exist here in our world.
Eunie
Well then... I've gotta know, don't I?
And then, I'll break free...
And it won't have to feel like I'm suffocating...
And then, I'll break free...
And it won't have to feel like I'm suffocating...
Sena
(concerned)
(concerned)
Eunie...
Noah
We can think more later. Right now we should make ourselves scarce.
Mio
You're right. We might have destroyed the Annihilator, but we haven't liberated the Castle.
Escaping to the Channel[edit]
Back within Keves Castle, the party's escape channel is blocked by a large turbine.
Lanz
(grouchily)
(grouchily)
Great. We can't go on with this thing in the way!
Riku
Maybe this channel...not connect to outside Castle?
Noah
Weird... This wasn't on the map.
Noah pulls up his Iris.
Eunie
So where are we at, right now?
Noah
Somewhere here in the mid-level?
It's OK. If we go a bit further, we can get back in the channel.
It's OK. If we go a bit further, we can get back in the channel.
They look over to where a series of containers are being elevated up a floor.
Sena
Might as well, then. Let's see where this goes.
Noah
Yeah.
Cradle[edit]
The party's path has exited to a spacious room.
Mio
Um...are you sure we're on the right path?
Doesn't this feel off?
Doesn't this feel off?
Noah
(trailing off)
(trailing off)
We followed the right route...
According to Bolearis's data, we should be...
According to Bolearis's data, we should be...
Manana
(awed)
(awed)
Everything here look so sumptuous and lavish!
Noah
Wait...
Mio
Hm?
Noah
(alarmed)
(alarmed)
It's the right path, but...
We shouldn't be here!
We shouldn't be here!
Mio
What do you mean? Why shouldn't we?
Noah runs off to the middle of the room. The others follow.
Noah
Uhh...
I should have known!
I should have known!
♫
Eunie
Th-this place. I saw an image of it in training.
Lanz
Oh. Oh...
Shit, we gotta go!
Shit, we gotta go!
Taion
Noah, is this where I think it is?
Noah
(quietly)
(quietly)
Yeah.
The throne room!
The throne room!
Riku
This not just bad place.
This worstest place, heart of enemy base!
This worstest place, heart of enemy base!
Taion
We haven't been noticed yet. Let's get out of here, now!
Noah
Good idea.
They run off, but suddenly Noah hesitates.
Mio
What are you doing?! We have to go!
Noah starts running back towards the centre of the room.
Eunie
Noah, what're you playin' at?! Come on!
The others follow him. Surrounding the throne are hundreds of cradles.
Mio
Is this...?
Noah
Yeah. I barely remember it...but yeah.
A brief flashback plays of an early scene in Chapter 1, where an embryo grows into a child in a Cradle.
Noah
This is the place...where we were born...
Lanz
Spark... This is creepy.
Were we...ever like that?
Were we...ever like that?
Eunie
My skin's crawlin'... Please can we leave?
Sena
All those people... Do you think they're sleeping?
Or maybe they're...
Or maybe they're...
Noah turns around and something catches his eye.
Noah
Wait, is that...?
It *is* her!
It *is* her!
Mio
What?
He runs over to a cradle.
Noah
Ethel!
Mio
Huh?!
The others follow. Sure enough, inside the cradle appears to be a young Ethel.
Taion
That's crazy. How can it be Ethel?
Sena
Well, it sure looks like her... but this is definitely a first-termer!
Eunie
No. It really is Ethel.
From when we first met her.
From when we first met her.
Lanz
Yeah. No mistake.
Mio
What do you mean, when you first met...?
Noah
(increasingly shocked)
(increasingly shocked)
What in the...spark...*is* this?!
Eunie
This is what they taught us, right?
That our lives are born from the Queen...
That our lives are born from the Queen...
Taion
You are as well?
Eunie
Huh? Same for you guys?
Taion nods.
Taion
We soldiers are born from the Queen, we fight...
and then...
and then...
Queen of Keves
(from offscreen)
(from offscreen)
To the Queen you return.
The party looks over in alarm to where the Queen descends into the room on her throne. They run over to the throne.
Noah
Huh...?
Lanz
Th-the Queen...
Noah
Melia...
Mio
That's the...Queen of Keves... Melia...
Queen of Keves
(emotionless)
(emotionless)
You have returned...
My beloved...soldiers...
My beloved...soldiers...
The party
(disturbed gasps)
Noah flinches as N teleports into the room.
Noah
Uh?
A Consul?
A Consul?
N
Ouroboros rabble.
You dare to intrude on the presence of Her Majesty, Melia Antiqua?
You dare to intrude on the presence of Her Majesty, Melia Antiqua?
Sena
There's a Golden Consul...?
Eunie
What is this guy?
Taion
He's not like the other Consuls we've met... Mio, be careful!
Mio doesn't react. She continues staring at N.
Taion
Mio!
Mio
(back in reality)
(back in reality)
Ah...sorry.
Taion
What's wrong?
Mio
(hesitating)
(hesitating)
Uh, nothing. Don't worry.
I'm OK...
I'm OK...
Taion looks unconvinced.
Mio
(I know him...)
(But from where...?)
(But from where...?)
As N looks at Noah, Noah's vision goes blurry and he puts a hand to his head.
Noah
(in pain)
(in pain)
What is...this sensation...?
The Queen of Keves sets her staff down.
Queen of Keves
I have endeavored, for countless years...
to protect...and shelter Keves under my aegis.
And now you seek to bring ruin to this world.
This grieves me.
to protect...and shelter Keves under my aegis.
And now you seek to bring ruin to this world.
This grieves me.
Lanz
Come off it. How are we bringing ruin to anything?
Queen of Keves
You seek to deny it?
Think. Upon your actions.
Have you, or have you not... destroyed Colony Flame Clocks?
Think. Upon your actions.
Have you, or have you not... destroyed Colony Flame Clocks?
Eunie
We didn't have any choice!
Queen of Keves
No choice?
Indeed. I assume then...you had no choice but to collude with our sworn enemy?
Indeed. I assume then...you had no choice but to collude with our sworn enemy?
Noah
That's why you've been trying to wipe us out?
Both us, and Ethel's Colony 4?!
Both us, and Ethel's Colony 4?!
Queen of Keves
Verily it is said...
Ouroboros abhor this world.
You must be erased, lest this world be destroyed.
Ouroboros abhor this world.
You must be erased, lest this world be destroyed.
Eunie
We don't "abhor" anything!
Do you realize how many battles we've fought and won for Keves?
We've served you our whole lives. And now this bollocks?!
Do you realize how many battles we've fought and won for Keves?
We've served you our whole lives. And now this bollocks?!
The Queen is silent.
Noah
Your Majesty! Please!
Queen of Keves
You say you fight for Keves?
That you've served *us*?
Are you certain?
Rather it seems...you have been fighting for yourselves and none other.
That you've served *us*?
Are you certain?
Rather it seems...you have been fighting for yourselves and none other.
The party collectively gasps.
Queen of Keves
You cling to life in your desperation.
That is why you have fought.
Unchecked, Ouroboros will lead this world to ruin.
Now, by my authority, you shall perish.
That is why you have fought.
Unchecked, Ouroboros will lead this world to ruin.
Now, by my authority, you shall perish.
Noah
(resigned)
(resigned)
So...
That's it? That's your verdict, then?
That's it? That's your verdict, then?
N
It is not Her Majesty's "verdict".
'Tis the will of the world.
'Tis the will of the world.
Noah
It's what?
Queen of Keves
Indeed. The security of this world is paramount!
Therefore, Ouroboros...
The end is nigh...for you shall die by my hand!
Therefore, Ouroboros...
The end is nigh...for you shall die by my hand!
The Fake Queen[edit]
Mid-fight with the Queen, a transparent wall has appeared between the party and the Queen. When struck, it turns blue and rebounds whatever hit it. The party members attack it with strikes and projectiles, to no avail.
Eunie
Wha-what the snuff is that? Stupid wall of light thing!
Sena
It's stopping our attacks in their tracks!
The Queen raises her staff, and three balls of elemental fire form above it. After a moment, they are discharged towards Mio and Sena, passing through the barrier as if it weren't there. Sena takes a hit from one, yelling in pain.
Mio
Sena!
A wall of Mondo protect Sena from a follow-up fireball. The next one targets Taion, who dodges. Mio manages to jump out of the way of several fireballs, but takes a clean hit from the last one.
Noah
Mio!
Noah and Lanz rush over to help her. Eunie continues shooting fruitlessly at the Queen.
Mio
(getting back up)
(getting back up)
Sorry... Lost my focus.
Lanz blocks the next attack directed at Noah and Mio.
Mio
How's Sena?
Taion blocks attacks at Sena while Eunie heals her up. Once she's standing, Taion fires a near-continuous stream of Mondo at the barrier. They fall when they collide with it, singed slightly. Sena yells as she runs through the stream at the Queen and strikes with her hammer. Ripples travel through the barrier, but it holds firm as she pushes. When the Queen of Keves raises her staff again, Sena bails, running back towards the party to avoid a volley of fire. Eunie and Lanz continue firing from a distance. Noah reaches for his sword.
Noah
(unhappily)
(unhappily)
All right, then...
Lanz
Noah, you crazy?! That's the Queen!
Noah
I know... But we have to!
Lanz
Even so...!
Eunie
(alarmed)
(alarmed)
Noah!
The Queen has charged up the current elemental for much longer than usual; it is almost a dozen metri across, glowing intensely. The party braces themselves. Before the Queen fires, however, her body starts to vibrate and spark, her head at a strange angle. The party gasps.
Noah
Wh-?! What's she...?
As the vibrating intensifies, the oversized elemental shrinks to nothing. A particularly large spark dislodges the Queen's mask; it clatters to the floor. Behind it is no face, but instead a tangle of wires and speaker in place of a mouth, now smoking slightly. The "Queen" stops moving.
Noah
(lowering his weapon, shocked)
(lowering his weapon, shocked)
Her Majesty is a...machine?!
Eunie
Spark off!
Lanz
You serious?!
N begins to cackle maniacally.
N
(looking skyward)
(looking skyward)
Was that your doing, Queen? You haven't given up your false hope.
Very well. By all means, look on.
Witness how hollow your hope rings... as I slice it all to ribbons!
Very well. By all means, look on.
Witness how hollow your hope rings... as I slice it all to ribbons!
N casually pushes the Queen over as he saunters toward the party. Noah's vision blurs as he approaches.
Noah
Wh- Again... Blast it...
Why does he...make my... head hurt...
Why does he...make my... head hurt...
Noah drops his weapon in pain.
Lanz
Noah! What's wrong?
We're not done yet!
Take up your Blade!
We're not done yet!
Take up your Blade!
Sena
What's going on?!
Mio
Are you OK?
With difficulty, Noah picks his sword back up.
N
It is fate.
Noah
Huh? Fate?
N
Many have tried, but none have ever managed to escape its flow.
N summons his own Blade. It appears as a darker, twisted version of Noah's Veiled Sword, glowing purple with a Moebius lemniscate in place of the Ouroboros ring. It vibrates with a high-pitched hum.
Mio
Wait, that sword... How does he...?
As the party braces themselves, an alarm rings out in the room.
N
(annoyed)
(annoyed)
What now?
N picks up the Iris.
Keves soldier through Iris
Lord High Consul! Th-the Lost Numbers are attacking!
N
The Lost Numbers?!
Outside, a large number of Levnises approach the castle, under heavy fire. As they approach, Automatons drop from the machines. Several crash through the windows to the Throne Room and screech to a near halt, popping out Automatons that immediately start to fire upon N.
N withdraws his sword from its sheath and, too quickly to follow clearly, cuts through the hail of bullets. The Levnises begin flying towards the Cradles.
Eunie
Wait, those Levnises...
Sena
Yeah, we've seen one before. Gotta be!
They're the same type of Levnis that Guernica used. The Levnises pick up Cradles and fly out of the Throne Room. The party, sans Noah, turns and starts to run.
Lanz
Noah, let's book it!
Taion
Yes. They won't be attacking the Colony now.
There's no point in our being here any more!
There's no point in our being here any more!
Noah
You're right...
Still...
Still...
An Automaton fires a missile at N. He cuts it in two, but it still explodes. N, undeterred, looks straight at Noah through the flames.
Lanz
(more desperately)
(more desperately)
Noah!
Noah
Nghh... All right!
Noah finally turns and runs. As he does so, a Levnis fires a heavy stream of bullets into the Throne Room, causing an explosion. Several Levnises are hit with anti-aircraft fire, but many escape carrying the Cradles. Ethel is in one of them.
Left standing alone, N removes his mask.
Left standing alone, N removes his mask.
N
The passage of fate... How easily it slips from my grasp...
The camera finally shows N's face, removing all doubt that he shares the face of Noah.
N
Yet perhaps,
it will come within reach once more.
it will come within reach once more.
N opens his eyes. Though the rest of his face is the same, N's eyes lack the light that Noah's have. As he speaks, a Consul in silver armour walks up to him.
Silver Consul
And if it does? What will you do then?
The Silver Consul removes her mask. She looks just like Mio, albeit with long hair.
N
(relatively gently)
(relatively gently)
Need you ask?
I will give us equilibrium.
A time unchanging... Our eternity.
I will give us equilibrium.
A time unchanging... Our eternity.
Time bears down on us without mercy.
How should we live the days that we have left?
What should we spend them on?
We saw one possible answer to those questions.
But we cannot accept it.
Not even as a last resort.
After all, it was the only path that was offered to those two.
We should all be free to choose our own way.
That's our belief. That's why we fight...
Notes[edit]