Character story

Soldier: Captain Cecil! We will arrive at Baron shortly!

Cecil: Mhmm…

Soldier: See, even the captain…

Soldier: Even if it was an order…

Soldier: Stealing the Crystal from innocent people…

Soldier: We are the Red Wings, a proud airship fleet! And now we're robbing the weak and defenseless!

Cecil: That's enough!

Soldier: But Captain!

Soldier: How could we rob mages who didn't even resist!

Cecil: Listen up, all of you! The Crystal is absolutely essential for our Kingdom of Baron to prosper. His Majesty judged that the people of Mysidia know too much about the Crystal's secrets. We are the kingdom's airship fleet, the Red Wings of Baron! His Majesty's orders are absolute…

Soldier: Captain…

Soldier: Captain, monsters!

Cecil: All hands, battle stations!

Soldier: Agh!

Cecil: Are you all right?

Soldier: More incoming!

Cecil: Damn!

Cecil: Everyone okay?

Soldiers: Yes, sir!

Soldier: But all these monsters lately…

Soldier: Yeah, far too many.

Cecil: Is something… about to happen?

Soldier: We have arrived at Baron!

Cecil: Good. Bring us down.

Beigan: Excellent, so you have obtained the Crystal.

Cecil: …But the people of Mysidia didn't resist at all…

Beigan: Whatever do you mean? Come along, His Majesty is waiting.

Beigan: Sir Cecil, please wait here a moment.

Beigan: Your Majesty… If I may be so bold, I fear that wretch Cecil seems to be losing faith in you.

King Baron: Truly!? Nothing escapes my Captain of the Royal Guard. Well done! But it matters not, so long as we get our hands on the Crystal. Bring Cecil before me.

Beigan: Yes, my liege.

Beigan: Sir Cecil, His Majesty summons you. Please proceed.

King Baron: You have served well, Cecil. Now, where is the Crystal?

Cecil: Here it is, sire.

Handed over the Water Crystal.

Beigan: It appears to be genuine.

King Baron: So it is! Oh, how radiant! You may leave, Cecil!

Cecil: Your Majesty!

King Baron: Wh-what!

Beigan: Wh-what is it!

Cecil: Your Majesty, what is the meaning of all this? Everyone is losing faith in you!

King Baron: And you foremost among them?

Cecil: ! No, I would never…

King Baron: Did you think I knew nothing of this!? That someone of your standing should fail to trust me… Regrettably, I can no longer leave you in charge of the Red Wings! You are hereby relieved of your post as captain of the airship fleet!

King Baron: Your new charge is to hunt down an Eidolon! We have reports of a phantom beast, an Eidolon, haunting the land near the Valley of Mist. Slay the monster, then deliver this Bomb Ring to the village of Mist. You depart tomorrow morning!

Cain: Please wait!

Cain: Cecil would never…

King Baron: Cain. If this one worries you so, then go with him!

Cecil: Your Majesty!

King Baron: I have nothing more to say! Take the ring and begone!

Obtained the Bomb Ring.

Cecil: Sorry for dragging you into this, Cain…

Cain: Once we slay that Eidolon or whatever, His Majesty is sure to forgive you. You'll be reinstated to the Red Wings soon enough.

Cecil: …

Cain: Don't worry about it. Leave all the preparations to me, and rest up tonight.

Rosa: Cecil!

Rosa: Thank goodness you're safe. Your mission was so sudden, I was worried.

Cecil: Sure, we're safe… Hard to get so much as a scratch facing mages who didn't even resist…

Rosa: I'll come to your room later…

Cecil: Mhmm…

Cid: So you're back, Cecil!

Cid: Rosa's been worried sick! Make her cry and you'll have me to answer to, ya hear? Now then, are my darlin' airships okay? Your men are too rough with 'em. Hey now, what's with the long face?

Cecil: Well, Cid, you see…

Cid: Whaa? Eidolon hunting? As if anyone but you could command the Red Wings! Bah, what's gotten into His Majesty? He's tellin' me to make a new model of airship, but… I don't want 'em made into murder machines! Folks in town are all wonderin' about it too…

Anyhoo, you be careful now, hear! You'll take out those Eidolons with one swipe of your dark sword! Me, I'm headin' home. My daughter's been makin' a fuss 'cause I haven't been back home lately!

I've changed your linens. I hear you leave tomorrow morning, sir… Please rest well tonight.

Cecil: His Majesty… what has happened to him? He was once a renowned knight, and a kind and strong man. He took in orphans like me and Cain and raised us as though we were his own children. Mysidia's Crystal… Is it something we need so badly as to steal it from villagers who didn't resist? To think we did such a thing, even under orders!

Rosa: What happened? One day you suddenly leave for Mysidia, and the next you're going Eidolon hunting… And you haven't been yourself since you came back.

Cecil: No, it's nothing…

Rosa: Then look at me.

Cecil: In Mysidia, I… stole the Crystal from innocent people! I'm a Dark Knight on the outside… with a heart to match…!

Rosa: …You're not that kind of person.

Cecil: I'm just a spineless Dark Knight who can't defy His Majesty…

Rosa: Cecil of the Red Wings would never whimper like that! Not the Cecil I love…

Rosa: You're going to Mist tomorrow, right? If anything should happen to you, I…

Cecil: No need to worry. Cain is coming with me…

Cecil: It's late… You should get some rest too.

Rosa: Be careful…!

Cecil: Thanks, Rosa… But I'm a Dark Knight. You and I…

Cain: Let's go, Cecil.

Cecil: Counting on you, Cain.

Cain: Heh. Leave it to me.

Thus the Dark Knight Cecil, captain of the Kingdom of Baron's airship fleet, the "Red Wings," was stripped of his command. Together with Cain, captain of the Dragon Knights, he left Baron Castle for Mist, a frontier village in a valley thick with fog…

The airship, a vessel that soars across the heavens, had long been a dream of mankind…

But the airship's swift reach could become not merely a dream fulfilled, but even a tool of men's desires.

Through its airship fleet, the "Red Wings," the Kingdom of Baron became the strongest military nation.

Why then did Baron, already so mighty, seek the Crystal…? And why did so many monsters begin to appear in broad daylight…?

The Crystal, in silence, simply brimmed with its light…

"Turn back…"

Cecil: Who goes there!

"Leave at once…"

Cain: Is that the Eidolon speaking?

"Men of Baron…"

Cain: Who's there!

"If you turn back now, I will do you no harm. Turn back immediately."

Cain: Show yourself!

"You still mean to go on…?"

Cecil: We must deliver this Bomb Ring to the village of Mist!

"Then… you leave me no choice!"

Cain: The mist is gathering…!

Cecil: The ring is glowing…!?

Cain: What the…!

Cecil: So this is why we were sent all this way…

Cain: To burn down the village…

Cecil: WHY!? King Baron…!

"Waah, waah…"

Cecil: Who's that?

Girl: Mom's dragon died, so Mom did too… -sob-, -sob-…

Cecil: !

Cain: Come to think of it, I've heard of them. Those with the power to call forth monsters… Summoners, if I recall!

Cecil: It can't be… Because we slew that dragon, this girl's mother, too…

Girl: So you guys killed Mom's dragon!

Cecil: We never dreamed… it would kill your mom…

Cain: It appears that His Majesty sent us all this way to wipe out the Summoners of this village…

Cecil: How horrible…

Cain: …I feel sorry for her, but it looks like we must finish off this kid as well.

Cecil: Cain!

Cain: If we don't, we're done for!

Cecil: She's a child!

Cain: Could you defy His Majesty?

Cecil: If it means more slaughter like this, I refuse to obey His Majesty!

Cain: Heh. I figured as much. I won't let you leave Baron by yourself.

Cecil: Cain?

Cain: Much as I may be indebted to His Majesty, I couldn't possibly bring dishonor to the Dragon Knight name.

Cecil: Then Cain, you too…

Cain: But Baron is the strongest military power in the world. Just the two of us acting tough won't accomplish anything. We have to let other countries know about this and enlist their aid. We need to get Rosa out, too!

Cecil: Thanks, Cain.

Cain: Not for your sake, though.

Cecil: ?

Cain: Anyway, we're in danger here. We've got to hurry out of this village. What should we do with the kid?

Cecil: No choice but to take her along!

Cecil: Look, it's dangerous here. Come with us…

Girl: No!

Cain: We have no choice, then, even if we have to use force!

Girl: Don't come any closer!

Cecil: Wait!

Girl: I've had enough! All of you! I hate you all!

Cecil: Phew, the girl's safe…

!!

Cecil: Cain?

Cecil: Cain!

Cecil: I can't stay here forever… I've got to take this girl and escape… Cain… Please be alive!

Cecil: I need to let this girl rest…

"Welcome. Oh my, the little miss looks pale! Come, come, hurry to a room! Never mind the charge, go on in!"

Cecil: Thank you.

Cecil: You've come to.

Girl: …

Cecil: …I never asked your name, did I?

Girl: …

Cecil: …I as good as killed your mom… There's no way you could forgive me… But will you at least let me protect you…?

Girl: …

General: Found you, Cecil!

Girl: !

Cecil: Wait! King Baron is…

General: These are the King's own orders. He says he will pardon you if you hand over that surviving child from Mist. Apparently the people of Mist are dangerous!

Cecil: What!?

Girl: !

General: Now hand over the girl!

Cecil: I refuse!

Girl: I'm sorry, this is my fault…

Cecil: I'm the one who should apologize. Not that apologizing could ever make up for what I've done…

Girl: But you protected me…

Cecil: …

Girl: I'm… Rydia…

Cecil: Thanks… Rydia.

Summoner Rydia joined the party!

Cecil: Rosa!

Cecil: Rosa…

Rosa: …

Uhhn…

Cecil…

Don't die, Cecil!

Old Man: Hm! You there! Why, you wield the dark sword! I beg you, lend me a hand!

Cecil: What's the matter?

Old Man: My daughter Anna was taken in by a bard and has run off to Damcyan! An ominous air hangs over Damcyan!

Cecil: Then you must be the sage Tella!

Tella: Indeed, I am Tella! I grew worried and set out for Damcyan, but I've been held up by a giant monster in the Underground Lake ahead. The brute has tremendous power! I cannot slay it with my magic alone! But together with your dark sword, we might!

!? What's this! So this girl is a Summoner. She has considerable potential.

Cecil: We also need to go to Damcyan!

Tella: Then it's settled! To Damcyan, at once!

Sage Tella joined the party!

Tella: All right, let us rest here a while.

Tella: A barrier over this magic circle keeps monsters out. Here we can rest in a Tent or Cottage, and also Save. To prepare for our battle with the beast, let us recover our strength in my tent!

Tella: Asleep already, is she? She must have been exhausted. If I'm not mistaken, this girl is…

Cecil: A Summoner from… Mist.

Tella: She has great potential. With proper training, she should be able to master other magic as well. Ah, but what a sweet sleeping face… Just like Anna when she was little.

Cecil: She is your…

Tella: My only daughter. She ran off to Damcyan with a bard… all because I denied them my blessing…

Tella: What business have you in Damcyan?

Cecil: A friend of mine in Kaipo has come down with desert fever.

Tella: Ah, the Desert Light… Without that, even I can do nothing. So you're in a hurry too…

Cecil: What exactly is the monster in this cavern?

Tella: A dreadful brute with eight enormous legs. For the sake of Anna and your friend, we must defeat the beast first! I hope that ominous air I sense over Damcyan is just my imagination…

Tella: We can go above ground here for now. The beast lurks beneath the waterfall ahead! We'd best pitch a Tent above ground as a precaution!

Tella: The beast is down below!

Tella: Here it comes!

Tella: This brute is the Octomammoth!

Tella: Now we can press on to Damcyan! Behind these falls, we should find a way outside!

Tella: That's… Oh, Anna…!

Tella: You spoony bard! Look what you've done to Anna!

Bard: !?

Tella: Anna… you held on…

Anna: Father… he… Gilbert is the Prince of Damcyan… To hide his rank… he came to Kaipo as a bard… I'm sorry, Father… for running off like that… I'm in love with Gilbert… But you're my dear father… I had to have your forgiveness… so I was just about to return to Kaipo when…

Gilbert: The Red Wings of Baron, led by one who calls himself Golbeza…

Cecil: Who on earth is Golbeza?

Gilbert: I don't know… He was clad in peculiar black armor… and his strength was inhuman…

Cecil: But why would the Red Wings…!?

Gilbert: Once they seized the Crystal, they set fires… My mother and father, struck down… and Anna… shielded me from arrows…

Tella: This one… means that much to you…

Anna: Father, forgive me… Gilbert… I… love… you!

Gilbert: Anna!

Tella: Anna! Anna…!

Tella: …This Golbeza… who on earth is he!?

Gilbert: All I've heard is that he arrived recently in Baron and has been leading the Red Wings to gather the Crystals…

Tella: Pathetic! Crying won't bring Anna back! Golbeza of Baron…! I'm coming to avenge Anna!

Cecil: Tella, don't go alone…!

Tella: I need no help! I'll deal with Golbeza alone!

Tella left the party.

Gilbert: A-Anna… -sob-, -sob-…

Rydia: Weakling!

Rydia: Mister, you're a man, aren't you? A grown-up! Yet look at you…! Even I…

Cecil: Rydia…

Gilbert: You're right… I am a weakling, just like you said! So I'm going to stay here with Anna forever! Nothing matters anymore!

Cecil: You're not the only one who's grieving! Doing that wouldn't please Anna at all! Besides, right now we need your help!

Gilbert: Me, help you?

Cecil: I'm Cecil. To save a friend of mine stricken with desert fever in Kaipo, I must have the Desert Light. And for that… I need your help!

Gilbert: My help…

Cecil: Right. For Rosa's sake… I beg you!

Gilbert: It sounds like this Rosa is someone dear to you… You mustn't… lose the one you love.

Gilbert: The Desert Light is made from secretions that the Antlion in the eastern cave gives off when it lays its eggs. We must cross some shallow water to reach the cave. There is a hovercraft in Damcyan that can cross the shallows. We should also be able to cross the shallows back to Kaipo.

Gilbert: Come on, let's hurry!

Prince Gilbert joined the party!

Gilbert: Goodbye… Anna!

Gilbert: This is the Antlion's spawning ground.

Rydia: Eek!

Gilbert: It's okay. The Antlion is docile. It won't harm humans. I'll go fetch what we need.

Gilbert: Waaah!

Cecil: Let's go, Rydia!

Obtained the Desert Light.

Gilbert: That can't be! Why would the Antlion…

Cecil: There have been more monsters lately. Even animals that used to be docile are attacking. Just as I feared… it's an omen of something…

Rydia: Let's hurry to Rosa!

Cecil: Yeah, let's go!

Shined the Desert Light over Rosa!

Rosa: Uhhn…

Rosa: Cecil! You're alive! Thank goodness…

Cecil: That was reckless of you…

Rosa: I heard you died in the earthquake at Mist… But I couldn't believe it, so…

Cecil: I'm sorry… Anyway, just who is this Golbeza?

Rosa: King Baron sent for him to command the Red Wings in your place. Ever since he arrived, the King has been acting more and more erratically… I'm sure Golbeza is manipulating the King to gather the Crystals. The Water Crystal of Mysidia, which you brought back. The Fire Crystal of Damcyan. The Wind Crystal of Fabul. And finally, the Earth Crystal of Troia…

Gilbert: The Fire Crystal is already in his hands…

Cecil: He's Gilbert, Prince of Damcyan. It's thanks to him that we were able to cure you. This girl is Rydia… of Mist.

Rydia: Are you okay?

Rosa: Thank you, Rydia and Gilbert. If Damcyan has already been attacked, then Fabul is next! We have no time to waste! -cough-, -cough-!

Cecil: Don't overdo it, Rosa. We'll go to Fabul!

Gilbert: But Mount Hobs, on the way to Fabul, is covered in thick ice…

Rosa: …Rydia, can you use Fire?

Rydia: ! …Unh-uh, I can't…

Rosa: Surely a Summoner like you can cast a basic black spell like Fire— Ugh… -cough-!

Cecil: Rosa! You have to wait here after all!

Rosa: I'll be fine. Besides, I'm a White Mage. I won't be a burden…!

Cecil: …

Gilbert: Cecil… Rosa wants to be with you.

Cecil: …Okay, Rosa. We'll go together. It's already night… We'll leave tomorrow morning. For now, get a good night's rest.

Rosa: Cecil… Okay.

White Mage Rosa joined the party!

That night…

Gilbert: …

Gilbert: I'm still so lonely, Anna…

Gilbert: Anna!

Anna: Gilbert, I must be going… to become one with the great soul…

Gilbert: Anna! No, don't go!

Anna: Gilbert, have courage! You must not let Golbeza get the Crystals… You gave me your love. Now share that love with all people…

Gilbert: Anna, I'll fight! But courage, you say… Anna, what should I do…?

Rosa: Rydia. Try to cast Fire.

Rydia: …

Gilbert: Rydia?

Rosa: I know you can do it!

Rydia: …No.

Rosa: ?

Rydia: I hate flames!

Cecil: Oh… It's because of that Bomb Ring's flames that Mist was…

Rosa: Listen, Rydia. You're the only one here right now with the power to melt this ice.

Rydia: …

Rosa: If we don't melt this ice and reach Fabul, many more people will suffer terribly… Please… have courage!

Gilbert: Courage…

Rosa: Rydia, please!

Gilbert: Come on, Rydia!

Cecil: …

Rydia: …

…

…

Rydia: Fire!

Rydia learned Fire!

Gilbert: Amazing, Rydia!

Rydia: Hehe…

Rosa: Thank you, Rydia!

Cecil: Rydia…

Cecil: What's that?

Gilbert: Those clothes… He must be a monk of Fabul!

Monk: Hah!

Gilbert: That one's formidable!

Rydia: Let's help him!

Monk: I am sincerely grateful to you for coming to my aid in my hour of need. I am Yang, the head monk of Fabul. We were in the midst of training here on Mount Hobs when we were attacked by a swarm of monsters, and everyone was wiped out except for me… Even though they were all such seasoned fighters…

Cecil: We're also on our way to Fabul.

Rosa: A man named Golbeza is using Baron to gather the Crystals…

Yang: Then Fabul's Wind Crystal too…!

Gilbert: Yes… Damcyan's Crystal has already been taken.

Cecil: They're after Fabul next.

Yang: …! What a calamity. Our main force of monks has been wiped out. Those at the castle are all still novices. If we're attacked now, we won't stand a chance!

Rosa: Those monsters were probably sent by Golbeza too.

Yang: To eliminate us and render Fabul defenseless!?

Cecil: Then he must already be heading for Fabul, with so few left to defend it! We'll help out as well! Hurry, to Fabul!

Yang: However, to drag all of you into this as well…

Cecil: This is our fight too!

Gilbert: I'm the Prince of Damcyan.

Cecil: Rosa and I are from Baron. And this girl… I was deceived by King Baron, and I…

Rydia: …

Yang: So you all have your own reasons… I am sincerely grateful! May I ask for your aid in battle?

Cecil: Of course! Now, on to Fabul!

Yang: Fabul is beyond the mountain to the east. Come, let us hurry!

Monk Yang joined the party!

King of Fabul: Yang, you have returned.

Yang: Yes, Sire. There is a more urgent matter, Your Majesty. One known as Golbeza is mobilizing Baron to come seize the Crystal!

King of Fabul: Truly!?

Yang: These people were good enough to come and warn us.

King of Fabul: And who are you people?

Cecil: There's no time. You must fortify your defenses at once!

King of Fabul: But you have the look of a Dark Knight of Baron. Whether I may trust you or not…

Yang: Your Majesty! These are people you can trust! They came to my aid when I was attacked…

Cecil: There's not a moment to lose!

Rosa: Please hurry!

Gilbert: It's been quite a while, Your Majesty.

King of Fabul: Ah, Prince Gilbert!

Gilbert: Damcyan has already been attacked and its Crystal stolen! I lost my father, my mother… even my beloved…! Do you intend to let Fabul suffer the same fate as Damcyan!?

King of Fabul: Forgive me! So it was true. But without our main force of monks… Would you lend us your strength as well?

Yang: These are people of splendid skill! I would have them by my side on the front lines!

King of Fabul: If you so insist, then I will take a chance on you all! Ladies, you shall serve as healers.

Rosa: Understood.

King of Fabul: I'm counting on you!

Yang: Sire!

Yang: Well then, Sir Cecil!

Rosa: Be careful…

Cecil: You too… Rydia! Take care of Rosa!

"Here they come!"

Yang: Intercept them!

"It's the Red Wings—!"

Cecil: We'll be done for out here like this!

Yang: Retreat inside the castle for now!

Yang: Forgive me! I've dragged you into a hopeless fight!

Cecil: I thought I told you. This is our fight too! And we haven't lost yet!

Gilbert: H-here they come!

Yang: Gah! Fall back!

Cecil: Isn't the throne room upstairs…!?

Yang: Worry not. The King has taken refuge in a safe location with the women and children! We shall draw the enemy in and…

Yang: …strike!

Gilbert: We can't hold out here any longer!

Yang: Damn!

Yang: I locked it! We must hold them here!

Cecil: Where's the Crystal!?

Yang: It's right above us!

Yang: What are you doing!

Gilbert: He's… not human!

Yang: There's no end to them! We have no choice! Let us fall back to the Crystal Room!

Cecil: Gilbert!

Cain: It's been a while.

Cecil: Cain! You're all right!

Cain: Yeah.

Cecil: Fight with us!

Cain: Of course, I intend to. But it's you I'll be fighting, Cecil!

Cecil: Cain!?

Cain: It's a duel, Cecil!

Cecil: Don't do this!

Cain: Here I come!

Cecil: Don't tell me Golbeza has you too!

Cain: I'll put you out of your misery now!

Yang: I will not allow that!

"Stop it…!"

Cain: Rosa!

Rosa: Cain, not you too!

Cain: Uh… urghh! Don't… look at me!

"Why have you lost your senses, Cain…?"

Gilbert: Golbeza!

Cecil: You're Golbeza…!

Golbeza: So, you are Cecil. A pity, considering we have only just met, but here is my salutation!

Gilbert: Cecil!

Yang: Over my dead body!

Golbeza: I have no business with insects!

Golbeza: Cain… Dispense with the games and get the Crystal.

Cain: Yes sir!

Rosa: Stop, Cain!

Cain: !

Cecil: Stay back, Rosa…!

Golbeza: Oh, is this woman so dear to you? In that case, allow me to keep her in my custody. I'd very much like to meet you again. She will serve as a token of that promise. Let's go, Cain!

Cain: You're lucky to be alive, Cecil!

Cecil: Wa… it!

Cecil: Agh…

Rydia: Cure!

Rydia: Are you okay?

Gilbert: Thanks, Rydia. But they've taken Rosa…

Yang: And we couldn't protect the Crystal…

Cecil: Rosa…

Rydia: Get a grip, guys! I'm sure Rosa's fine. And we can just take the Crystal back, too!

Gilbert: …You're right!

Yang: Sir Cecil! Now it is our turn to lend you our strength. Let us rest and recover, and think of a way to rescue her.

Cecil: Thank you…

"Master Yang, you must be tired. Please rest well."

Gilbert: We must rescue Rosa!

Cecil: In order to face Golbeza, we're going to need an airship… But only Baron can make them…

Yang: I wonder if there's any way we can sneak into Baron…

Cecil: Since Baron's main force is the Red Wings, its navy is relatively weak. If we're going to sneak in, we should do it by sea…!

Rydia: Then we'll need a ship.

Yang: In that case, first thing tomorrow morning I shall ask the King to prepare us a ship. We are indebted to you all. The King, too, should not hesitate to help.

Cecil: Please do…

Yang: …Just who was that Dragon Knight?

Cecil: His name is Cain, and he used to be my… best friend… We swore to leave Baron together, and yet…

Yang: I see…

Gilbert: …Anyway, let's get a good rest tonight…

Cecil: …

King of Fabul: …I see. Understood. Yang. You shall accompany them and lend them your strength.

Sir Cecil, I have no words to thank you enough. To think that even Lady Rosa would be captured… I shall have a ship readied at once.

Sir Cecil. Take this sword with you. It was carried by a Dark Knight who came to Fabul long ago.

It is the least I can do to thank you for fighting on behalf of Fabul. However, the dark sword is, after all, a sword of darkness…

It should prove useless against true evil. You must defeat Golbeza, without fail.

Obtained Deathbringer!

King of Fabul: As soon as you are ready, make your way to the east dock. A ship should be waiting for you there.

King of Fabul: Should all the Crystals fall into that menace's hands, the world would face an unprecedented crisis. We're counting on you!

Yang's Wife: Hon! Take care and fight hard!

Yang: Right!

Yang's Wife: Cecil and the rest of you, hang in there too!

Cecil: We will!

Yang: Then take care of things while I'm gone!

Yang's Wife: Leave it to me!

Captain: Ahoy, so yer Cecil! I've heard tales o' yer exploits! Now then, you just sit back and relax. Baron? We'll be there in a trice! Right, let's cast off at once!

Captain: Weigh anchor, ye swabs!

Sailors: Yahoo!

Yang: So what do you intend to do once we reach Baron?

Cecil: First, let's go see Cid, the airship engineer. He knows airships inside out, and he should lend us a hand.

Yang: I hope the gentleman is safe.

Gilbert: …

Rydia: Are you cold? You're shivering.

Gilbert: No, it's nothing…

Cecil: What was that?

Sailor: It can't be!

Sailor: He really exists!

Sailor: The lord of the great ocean!

Sailor: He's…

Captain: Iiit's Leviathan!

Captain: Avast yer panickin', ye bilge rats! Hold fast and ride it out!

Rydia: Aaah!

Yang: Rydia!

Cecil: Rydia! Yang!

Cecil: …

Uh…

Ungh…

Cecil: Where am I?

Cecil: Rydia!

Cecil: Gilbert!

Cecil: Yang!

Cecil: So… I'm alone.

Elder: You are the one from before… Just what have you come for this time?

Cecil: I am Cecil, formerly in command of the airship fleet. Back then, I lacked the courage to defy the King's orders…

Elder: Apologizing to me won't bring back those who have died.

Cecil: …

Elder: However… I can see a faint glimmer of radiance in you now, at odds with that form of yours. It might be worth listening to what you have to say.

Cecil: I'm now fighting someone named Golbeza, who is manipulating Baron. But my friend was captured, and on our way to rescue her, we were attacked by Leviathan, and my other friends were…

Elder: …Perhaps that too is an ordeal bestowed upon you. But so long as you rely on the dark sword, you cannot defeat true evil, and worse, you yourself could be stained with an evil heart at any moment. If you wish to fight with a good heart, then go to Mount Ordeals to the east. A powerful destiny is bound to be waiting for you there.

Cecil: But I must hurry and save my friend!

Elder: Someone dear to you, I take it? But you must not be hasty! It seems you bear the burden of a great destiny… First, you should try to ascend Mount Ordeals. You must replace that wicked sword with a sacred one. I hear that those who can accept the sacred light may become sacred knights… or Paladins… Many have gone to Mount Ordeals with these aspirations, but not a single one has returned. …What do you say, will you go and try?

Cecil: …Yes!

Elder: However, with your dark sword and by yourself, it would be hard going. I will assign mages to go with you. Palom! Porom!

Girl: What is it?

Elder: Where's Palom?

Girl: Oh, Palom, not again!

Boy: So you're that Baron guy from before, eh? I've got no choice but to help out because of the old man's orders, so you'd better be grateful!

Cecil: These two?

Elder: Indeed. These are the twin mages, Palom and Porom. They're still in training, but they should be helpful. Though they are still young, I personally vouch for their talent.

Palom: You'd better be grateful that I, the great Palom, child prodigy of Mysidia, am gonna escort you!

Elder: Palom! This doubles as training for you two!

Porom: Sir Cecil, I believe? I am very pleased to make your acquaintance.

Porom: Hey, Palom, you too!

Palom: Pleased to meet ya, big bro!

Black Mage Palom and White Mage Porom joined the party!

Elder: Now depart for Mount Ordeals! Palom! Porom! I'm counting on you!

Porom: Your turn, Palom!

Palom: You don't have to tell me, I know!

Palom: Blizzaaard!

Palom: No sweat!

Bonk!

Porom: Palom! You know the Elder says we mustn't brag!

Porom: Well then, let us be on our way, Sir Cecil!

Meanwhile…

Golbeza: Come forth, Scarmiglione!

Scarmiglione: Scarmiglione of Earth, at your service…

Golbeza: That one called Cecil is not to be underestimated. It would be wise to strike now, while we still have the chance. Fortunately, he's a Dark Knight. That means his sword will be blunted against the undead you command. However, he's climbing Mount Ordeals.

Scarmiglione: Then, a Paladin…?

Golbeza: Your task is to dispose of him before he becomes one.

Scarmiglione: …Rest assured. Please enjoy watching from here, Lord Golbeza…

Golbeza: Then go!

Scarmiglione: Yes, sir…

Golbeza: Things have become quite interesting. Don't you think, Cain?

Cain: Yes, sir… But to underestimate Cecil's power…

Golbeza: I understand your respect for your former friend… which is why I've sent Scarmiglione after him. He is one of the Four Archfiends. He should give us a good show. Wouldn't you agree, Rosa!

Cain: I, Cain, will face him!

Golbeza: How dare you say such a thing after that disgraceful display the other day! You need only stand watch over Rosa!

Cain: Yes, sir…!

Rosa: Cecil, be careful…!

Cecil: Tella!

Tella: Cecil!

Tella: So, you're here to search for Meteor as well…

Cecil: Meteor?

Porom: If he knows of Meteor, then…

Palom: Hey, gramps! Are you that Tella?

Porom: Call him Master Tella! How rude!

Porom: It truly is an honor to meet you. We have been sent by the Elder of Mysidia to…

Palom: Keep Cecil under close wa—

Porom: Tee-hee! My name is Porom, and we are guiding Sir Cecil up Mount Ordeals.

Palom: And I'm Palom! So, gramps, you're the Tella who's famous even in Mysidia!

Tella: Children from Mysidia, I see. What befell Gilbert and Rydia?

Cecil: When we were heading toward Baron, we were attacked by Leviathan…

Tella: …They died!?

Cecil: Yes… And Rosa was captured by Golbeza…

Palom: That's gotta be his girlfriend!

Porom: Shh!

Cecil: But weren't you going to find Golbeza?

Tella: The magic I have isn't enough to defeat someone that powerful. I was searching for the legendary sealed magic Meteor when I sensed a strong aura from this mountain! Could it be that Meteor is here…

Porom: That spell is dangerous! Master Tella, you are rather… advanced in years…

Tella: Indeed, I am an old wreck! But! Even if it costs me my life, that villain… Golbeza… I must defeat him myself!

Cecil: …

Palom: Pfft! This is why grown-ups are such a pain.

Porom: Children should keep quiet!

Tella: And you, Cecil?

Cecil: I'm here to become a Paladin. I can't defeat Golbeza with the dark sword, it seems… I also wish to be freed from this vile thing…!

Palom: So who's this Golbeza guy?

Porom: You're so ignorant! He's the one controlling Baron!

Tella: Yes, he is the root of all evil!

Tella: But… a Paladin, you say. As I suspected, this mountain does hide something! I shall join you. …Just you wait, Golbeza!

Sage Tella joined the party!

"Fshrrrr…"

Porom: Palom! You said something, didn't you!

Palom: I didn't say anything!

"Fshrrrr…"

Porom: There you go again!

Palom: I told you it's not me!

"Fshrrrr…"

Tella: An evil presence!?

"I'm happy… so very happy… that I get to bury you all…"

Cecil: Who goes there!?

"I am… the ferryman of death… One of Lord Golbeza's Four Archfiends… Scarmiglione of Earth… It's feeding time… for my darling undead…!"

"Fshrrrr… How kind of you to kill me. The power of Scarmiglione of Earth, still terrifying in death… savor it slowly as you die!"

Scarmiglione: Curse you… to think I could be beaten by the likes of you…!

Scarmiglione: Ghh… gaaah…!

"My son…"

Cecil: Son!? Who are you?

"I've been awaiting your arrival… Now… something is happening that fills me with sorrow. I shall now grant you my power… Giving you this power will leave me wrapped in deeper sorrow still… Yet no other way remains."

"Now, leave your blood-stained past behind. Unless you overcome the self you have been, the sacred power will not accept you. You must conquer… your own self as a Dark Knight!"

Tella: Two Cecils?

Palom: What the heck!?

Porom: Sir Cecil!

Tella: Cecil!

Palom: Big bro!

Porom: Look out!

Cecil: Don't interfere! This is a battle with myself! To atone for my past transgressions, I must defeat him… this Dark Knight!

"Well done… I shall now turn my spirit into the power of light and entrust it to you. Take this… the last of… my light! My son… Stop… Golbeza!"

Cecil: P-please wait!

Cecil became a Paladin!

Porom: Are you all right?

Palom: So you really—

Porom: Shush!

Cecil: What's this feeling… It's strangely familiar… What was that voice…

Tella: Oh… Ohh!

Porom: Master Tella?

Tella: I'm remembering… a great many spells!

Tella remembered all of his forgotten magic!

Tella: !?

Me…

…teor?

Did that light grant it to me!? The most powerful sealed black magic, Meteor!

Tella learned Meteor!

Porom: Master Tella is impressive indeed.

Palom: Hey, Porom…

Porom: Sir Cecil…

Palom: Actually, we…

Tella: All right! I'm fully prepared! On to Golbeza!!

Tella: What are you doing, Cecil? Come, let us go!

Cecil: Yeah…

Cecil: But that light… I'm sure it called me…

"My son"…

Palom: Hey! Hold on!

Porom: Let us be on our way, Sir Cecil!

Cecil: Y-yeah!

Elder: Oh, just look at you!

Porom: As you can see!

Palom: I never thought he'd actually pull it off!

Cecil: What do you mean?

Elder: I felt bad, but I ordered these two to keep watch over you. Though it seems there was no need after all. Job well done, Palom and Porom!

Palom: Yup, that's pretty much the deal.

Porom: Sorry we hid that from you. But we had no choice.

Cecil: No, I deserved it. After all I'd done…

Elder: But you've overcome your past self and become a Paladin…! …!? That sword?

Cecil: It was granted to me at the summit.

Elder: My word! This inscription is identical to the legend passed down in Mysidia since antiquity!

Cecil: Legend?

Cecil: …That light called me "son." What exactly is that light?

Elder: What the light on Mount Ordeals is… and what this legend means… even I do not know… Only that we people of Mysidia have been told for generations to keep this legend in our prayers. And to believe in the one who bears the sacred radiance… Perhaps you are the one, after all!

Tella: All that remains is to defeat Golbeza without delay!

Elder: Oh, Tella!

Tella: It's been a while.

Porom: We made his acquaintance on Mount Ordeals.

Palom: Gramps here got his hands on Meteor!

Elder: Meteor…! Are things so dire that even that spell has been unsealed…!?

Tella: It appears so. With this, I shall avenge Anna!

Elder: Anna was…?

Tella: Struck down by Golbeza! I'll defeat him myself with Meteor!

Elder: Tella. Fight with hatred and you will ruin yourself! What's more, Meteor is far too dangerous for you right now!

Tella: Even if it ruins me! I'll never forgive that scoundrel!!

Elder: I thought you would say that. You haven't changed since the old days.

Tella: Nor have you…

Elder: However, Sir Cecil has also become a Paladin. If the two of you were to join forces…!

Cecil: But to stand against Golbeza, we'll need to return to Baron and get an airship…

Elder: Very well… I shall unseal the Devil's Road! Now that you've become a Paladin, you should be able to travel along it! Go forth, to Baron! I shall enter the Tower of Prayer and continue to pray for you all… I'm counting on you…! Sir Cecil, Paladin!

Cecil: Yes!

Elder: Palom! Porom! Your duty is done!

Palom: We're not done yet! Elder, you told us to help this guy out, right?

Porom: Please grant us permission!

Elder: You two… If Mount Ordeals accepted you, perhaps this is your destiny as well… I cannot leave Mysidia. Sir Cecil, Tella… Take care of these two!

Cecil: But…

Palom: You know what we can do!

Porom: Precisely!

Tella: Fear not. You have me as well!

Cecil: All right… I'm counting on you!

Palom: Yahoo, that's more like it!

Porom: Don't get carried away. Let's go!

Elder: Now, take the Devil's Road on the right side of town and head for Baron! From the Tower of Prayer above, I shall keep praying for you… no, for all living things! I'm counting on you…!

Cecil: Yang! It's you! You're all right!

Yang: You!

Cecil: Don't you recognize me now that I'm a Paladin? It's me, Cecil!

Yang: Cecil, I've been looking for you! Traitor to King Baron, you cur! Get him!

Royal Guards: Yes, sir!

Cecil: Yang, don't you recognize me!?

Yang: Of course I do, you fugitive!

Yang: Sir Cecil! I… Leviathan…

Tella: It would seem Baron was using you while you had lost your memory.

Yang: …I am sincerely grateful.

Cecil: What of Rydia and Gilbert!?

Yang: Rydia was swallowed by Leviathan. As for Gilbert… I do not know…

Cecil: I see…

Yang: Where are we?

Cecil: Baron. It'll be trouble if the soldiers overhear us. Let's find a room and work out a plan! Monk Yang joined the party!

Ain't ya a tough bunch! Flattenin' the royal guards like that! I like ya! Stay the night, why don'tcha!

Yang: And who is this gentleman?

Cecil: This is Sage Tella. Gilbert's…

Tella: My daughter staked her life on loving that man…

Yang: I see… I am Yang, head monk of Fabul.

Palom: And I'm Palom, child prodigy of Mysidia!

Porom: Please pardon his impudence. I am his twin sister, Porom.

Palom: Man, letting the likes of Baron use you like that!

Porom: Palom!

Yang: I am ashamed…

Cecil: In any case, we've got to rescue Cid…

Tella: But it won't be so easy to get in there…

Yang: Hm? What is this!

Cecil: This is the Baron Key! Of course! They had Yang commanding the royal guard, so… With this, we might just manage it!

Obtained the Baron Key!

"Sir Cecil!"

Beigan: You are unharmed!

Cecil: Beigan! Not you too…

Beigan: What about me?

Cecil: …being controlled by Golbeza…

Beigan: Most certainly not. I command the royal guard. No one can sway my loyalty to Baron!

Cecil: I heard Cid is being held prisoner?

Beigan: Some of the remaining royal guard and I tried to save him, but alas, I am the only survivor…

Cecil: I see. Let's go together! It'll be reassuring to have you with us!

Beigan: Yes, sir! Beigan, Captain of the Royal Guard, joined the party!

Cecil: What's wrong?

Palom: Something smells.

Porom: It smells like a monster!

Beigan: What, where?

Palom: You stink, man!

Porom: If you're going to put on an act, I'd appreciate a slightly better performance.

Cecil: So Golbeza got to you, too!

Beigan: I'd thank you not to put it that way… That gentleman has granted me a wonderful gift. Such marvelous power!

Palom: You're too gullible, big bro!

Cecil: Even Beigan…!

King Baron: Cecil, you are safe! You have grown quite strong.

Cecil: Your Majesty…

King Baron: You look like a Paladin. I see, so you have become a Paladin. But that won't do at all. Not a Paladin.

Cecil: Your Majesty… no, Baron!

King Baron: Baron? Kukakakaka… Who's that? Oh, right, I remember now. The fool of a human who went on about never handing over his country. I was posing as him, wasn't I… Hyah hyah hyah!

Cecil: You…! What have you done with His Majesty!

King Baron: Wanna see him? Wanna see your king? I won't make a sorry mess of it like Scarmiglione. After all, he was such a weakling, it's a wonder he was ever made one of the Four Archfiends. Guh-heh-heh-heh-heh!

Cecil: Then you're one of them too!

King Baron: Indeed! I am one of Golbeza's Four Archfiends, Cagnazzo of Water!

"Why, you… you lousy fake King Baron!"

Cid: How dare you, lockin' me up in that moldy old joint! I'm gonna beat you to a pulp! E-eh?

Cecil: Cid!

Cid: Cecil, it's you! You're alive! You had me all worried, you…!

Cecil: Sorry.

Cid: What happened to Rosa!? She ran off, sayin' you were alive…

Cecil: She was kidnapped by Golbeza…

Cid: What a sorry sight, and you right there with her! But man, that Golbeza… Not only is he usin' my airships for awful things, but Rosa too!

Tella: That girl's in danger. Quickly, take us to this airship of yours!

Cid: Who's this old fossil?

Tella: Look who's talking!

Cid: Hey now, I'm still young and spry!

Porom: Now, now… You're Master Cid, correct? This is Master Tella. He is a great sage.

Porom: This is Master Yang, head monk of Fabul. And I am Porom, an apprentice mage from Mysidia.

Palom: Hmph, a pair of old fossils!

Porom: That foul-mouthed one is my twin, Palom.

Palom: Heh, acting all goody-goody!

Yang: I am very pleased to make your acquaintance, sir. It's dangerous to remain here, so we must move swiftly.

Cid: Well now, you sure know your manners!

Cecil: Cid, where's the new model airship?

Cid: Heheheh…

Cid: Somewhere nooo one would ever think to look! It's a little handiwork I rigged up in advance!

Tella: I told you, we've no time! Rosa's life is at stake!

Cid: Man oh man, what a nagging geezer! I get it already! Come on, it's this way!

"Kukakaka…"

"So you beat me, eh? But I can get rather lonely. Kukakaka… The terror of Cagnazzo of Water, dreadful even in death… savor every bit of it as you die! I'll be waiting for you in hell! Hee-heh-heh!"

Tella: The walls!

Cid: It won't open!

Tella: This one won't either!

Cecil: Palom! Porom!

Palom: Thanks for everything, big bro!

Porom: It was like we had gained a big brother. I was so happy!

Tella: What are you two doing!

Palom: We won't let you guys die here!

Porom: Master Tella! Please take care of Sir Cecil!

Palom: Let's do it, Porom!

Porom: Yeah!

Cecil: Stop…!

Palom and Porom: Break!

Cecil: Palom…

Porom—!!

Tella: How rash…! Hold on!

Esuna!

The two turned to stone of their own free will, so it has no effect…

Tella: Those fools! This old wreck should have been the one to die!

Yang: Such young children…!

Tella: I'll settle this score myself!

Cid: This battle's for the fallen! Let's launch the Enterprise!!

Cecil: Just you wait…

Golbeza…!

Golbeza: So even Cagnazzo fell. It seems he's grown quite formidable…

Cain: About the one remaining Crystal…

Golbeza: I know… but that place is a bit troublesome.

Cain: Perhaps we could send Cecil to fetch it?

Golbeza: Send him…?

Cain: We have Rosa here. We could exchange her for the Crystal… Would that suit you?

Golbeza: I see… A fine idea. And that will be our chance to dispose of him, too…

Cain: Then I shall go and relay the message.

Rosa: Cain!

Cain: I'll show you that I'm better than your little Cecil.

Cecil: Here, of all places?

Cid: The darkest place is under the candlestick, as they say!

Yang: To think it was hidden here…

Tella: Incredible!

Cid: Sorry to keep ya waitin', Enterprise! Let's go!

Cid: They sure showed up quick! I'll show 'em the Enterprise's power, good and proper!

Cecil: Wait!

Yang: That's a…

Tella: White flag?

Cecil: Cain!

Cain: So you're still alive, Cecil.

Cid: Cain, what do you think you're doing!

Cecil: Rosa… she'd better be safe.

Cain: Heh, so you really are worried about her? If you value Rosa's life, she's yours in exchange for Troia's Earth Crystal.

Cecil: What?

Tella: A dirty trick, you scoundrel!

Cain: Once you get it, I'll make contact again… Listen, see that you do! If you care about Rosa's well-being, that is.

Yang: You blackguard…!

Cecil: Snap out of it, Cain!

Cain: That is all.

Yang: Sir Cecil…

Cid: That blasted Cain…!

Cecil: Let's go to Troia… Cid, chart a course northwest…!

Cecil: Gilbert!

Gilbert: It's you, Cecil… So you survived. I'll… fight too…

Tella: What can you possibly do in your condition! Stay in bed and rest!

Gilbert: Tella… You held on. I'm sorry… I as good as killed Anna…

Tella: …

Gilbert: Truly… uuu…

Yang: Prince Gilbert, you must rest and recover for now…

Gilbert: Yang… So you also survived. Then Rydia as well…?

Yang: I am ashamed…

Gilbert: Oh, I see… Poor thing… Everyone's fighting, and here I am… How pathetic…

Cid: No need to worry! You've got ol' Cid and the Enterprise on your side! I hear you helped Cecil and Rosa. You just leave it to me!

Gilbert: You're Cid? Then you managed to get the airship—!!

Gilbert: Cecil! Where's Rosa?

Cecil: It's come down to exchanging Troia's Earth Crystal for her… But the Crystal is in the hands of the Dark Elf…

Gilbert: The Dark Elf…

Gilbert: Cecil, take this…

Cecil: What is it?

Gilbert: In my place… Please take it…

Obtained the Whisperweed.

Gilbert: Cecil… Save Rosa, no matter what!

Cid: Whoa, what a magnetic pull! If we've got metal weapons or armor equipped, we won't be able to budge!

Yang: My claws appear to be all right.

Tella: Fear not! You have my magic!

Dark Elf: IMPRESSIVE MAKING IT THIS FAR! EVEN THOUGH YOU FINALLY ARRIVED YOU CANNOT TAKE BACK THE EARTH CRYSTAL. DO YOU THINK YOU CAN BEAT MY MAGIC WITH SUCH EQUIPMENT?

Yang: Sir Cecil!

Tella: Leave this to us!

Cecil: If I could just use my sword…!

Gilbert: Cecil and the others… are in danger!

"You're in no condition to be moving around yet!"

"Where do you think you're going!"

Gilbert: …No need to worry. Just to my harp right over there… Ugh!

"You shouldn't even be able to walk steadily yet! Please don't push yourself!"

Gilbert: I don't care… There's no one who can save Cecil and the others… but me!

The sound of Gilbert's harp came through the Whisperweed!

Yang: Oh…

Tella: This warm tone…

Cecil: It's Gilbert's harp!

Dark Elf: WHAT! THIS HORRIBLE SOUND! GUH… GAAAH!

Gilbert: Now, Cecil! While this melody is playing, he shouldn't be able to control the magnetic field! Your sword! Equip your sword…!

Cecil: All right… Gilbert!

GRRR… HOW DARE YOU! I WILL KILL YOU ALL…!

Dark Elf: NGH… HOW DID THAT SOUND MAKE IT HERE! AS LONG AS I HAVE THE CRYSTAL… ETERNAL LIFE… GRAAAGH!

Cecil: We did it, Gilbert!

Obtained the Earth Crystal!

Clerics: That's…!

"That's definitely the Earth Crystal!"

"You brought it back!"

"Hooray!"

"Looks like you obtained the Crystal."

Cid: That voice!

Cecil: Cain!

Cain: Go outside and board your airship… I'll lead you to where Rosa is.

Cain: Where's the Earth Crystal?

Cecil: It's here! Where is Rosa!?

Cain: Heh. Not so fast. Follow my airship.

Cecil: Cain!

Cid: Where'd you disappear to!?

Cain: Don't be so hasty… Lord Golbeza would like a word about a return favor.

Tella: Golbeza!

Golbeza: I am most grateful that you have fulfilled your end of the bargain…

Tella: Show yourself!

Golbeza: I understand your impatience, but I'd like you to accept a favor in return.

Yang: A favor?

Golbeza: I am on the top floor of this Tower of Zot with your dear Rosa. If you make it all the way up here, I shall do you the favor of exchanging Rosa's life for the Crystal.

Cecil: Golbeza, you monster!

Golbeza: If you don't come quickly, I cannot guarantee your precious Rosa's life… Now, climb up to me!

"Welcome to the Tower of Zot!"

"Pleased to meet you!"

"We are the trusted servants of the mistress of this tower, Lady Barbariccia, Archfiend of Wind!"

"I am Dog of the three Magus Sisters!"

"And I am Mag!"

"I am Rag!"

"So sorry, but this is the end of the line for you."

"We'll be taking the Crystal."

"With our sisterly Delta Attack, you can kiss Rosa goodbye!"

"Impossible!"

"Our Delta Attack was beaten…"

"Sis…!"

Golbeza: Well done, gentlemen…

Tella: Golbeza!

Cecil: Where is Rosa!?

Golbeza: The Crystal comes first.

Cecil: Rosa had better be safe. Is she?

Golbeza: Of course she's safe. Now, give me the Crystal.

Cecil: Here it is!

Handed over the Earth Crystal!

Cecil: Give Rosa back!

Golbeza: Rosa? Whatever are you talking about?

Cecil: What!?

Cid: That wasn't the deal!

Tella: You're rotten to the core!

Golbeza: I have no business with a withered old man.

Tella: Perhaps not, but I have plenty with you!

Tella: Feel it…! Anna's pain!!

Golbeza: To think you'd use Meteor… Argh!

Cecil: Tella!

Golbeza: Even so… the Crystal is mine… Cain, withdraw!

Cain: …

Golbeza: So that Meteor broke my spell! So be it. I have no further use for you. I will repay this debt without fail!

Cecil: I won't let you get away, Golbeza!

Golbeza: Gah… do not underestimate me!

Golbeza: …!?

Cecil: Ugh… Why… won't you finish me off…

Golbeza: You…

Cecil: ?

Golbeza: Just who are you… Ugh… ughh!

Cecil: …?

Golbeza: We… we'll settle this another time…!

Yang: Sir Cecil!

Cid: Are you all right!?

Cecil: Y-yeah… It seems Meteor took its toll on him after all… But Tella!

Tella: I couldn't defeat him…

Cid: You shouldn't be talkin'!

Tella: This… may well be my punishment for fighting while consumed by hatred… Avenge Anna… I beg… of—!

Cecil: Tella!

Yang: !

Tella: …

Cid: Open your eyes! You damned old codger!!

Tella: …

Yang: Master Tella…

Cid: You live in peace now… with your daughter, y'hear…

Cecil: Tella… Anna…

…we will avenge her!

Cecil: Cain…!

Cain!

Cain: …Cecil! I-I'm sorry… What have I done…

Cecil: You were being controlled… it's not your fault.

Cain: But… I was still conscious. I… Rosa…

Cecil: !

Where's Rosa!?

Cain: She's up above! There's no time!

Rosa: Cecil!

Cecil: Rosa…

Rosa: I believed you would come for me…

Cecil: Without you, I realized… I… you…

Rosa: Cecil…

Cain: …

Cid: Hoo-boy, gettin' hot and heavy!

Rosa: Cain!?

Cecil: He's come back to his senses…

Cain: Forgive me, Rosa… It wasn't just that I was being controlled! I wanted you… to be by my side!

Rosa: Cain…

Cain: …

Cecil: …

Rosa: Let's fight together, Cain…

Cain: I'm sorry! Forgive me, Rosa! Cecil!

Cecil: …

Cid: C'mon! This ain't the time for lollygagging! It's dangerous here!

Cecil: Let's go, Cain!

Cain: Cecil…

Cecil: We need your power as a Dragon Knight! You'll fight Golbeza with us, won't you?

Cain: …Thanks, Cecil… Rosa…!

White Mage Rosa and Dragon Knight Cain joined the party!

"Ho-ho-hohoho…"

"To think you managed to wound Lord Golbeza… it seems we underestimated you all!"

Cain: It's Barbariccia of Wind, one of Golbeza's Four Archfiends!

Barbariccia: Cain. It seems you betrayed us too. And with all that power of yours!

Cain: Don't call it a betrayal. Call it coming back to my senses, Barbariccia!

Barbariccia: How dare you address me so casually! Had I known it would come to this, I would have eliminated you and Rosa both. But the one who wielded Meteor is no more. Now that you're all reunited, I'll bury you together, the best of friends to the end!

Cain: Heh. You're not the only one who can fight in the air!

Barbariccia: Cain, you…! Even if you defeat me… the last of the Four Archfiends remains! Together with this Tower of Zot… you shall vanish!!

Cecil: I-it's collapsing!

Cain: Damn!

Cid: Yikes!

Rosa: Hold on to me!

Rosa: Teleport!

Cecil: This is…

Rosa: Your room in Baron.

Cid: Should be safe now, 'cause that phony king is toast!

Cain: Cecil… There's something I must tell you…

Cid: What's up?

Cain: It's about the Crystals…

Cecil: The Earth Crystal we borrowed from Troia was stolen too… which means he's gathered all the Crystals now.

Cain: No, he's only gathered four of them so far!

Rosa: Aren't there only four in all…?

Cid: I've heard rumors of it!

Rosa: You don't mean…

Cain: Yes… the Dark Crystals!

Cid: The four Crystals of this world are, you might say, only the surface Crystals…

Yang: Then there are Crystals beneath the surface…

Cecil: The Dark Crystals!

Cain: Right. Which means that Golbeza has taken only half the Crystals!

Cid: I've only heard rumors of the Dark Crystals, but not where they would be…

Cain: Golbeza has located them, though.

Cecil: We have to hurry! So where are they?

Cain: Beneath the surface, quite literally… the Underworld!

Yang: The Underworld!?

Cid: We'll have to dig a hole or somethin'!

Cain: Anyway, he said that once he gathers all the Crystals, those of the surface and those beneath… that is, of Light and Darkness, the way to the moon will open…

Cecil: The way to the moon?

Cain: I don't really know what that means… but apparently this is the key. I'll give it to you.

Obtained the Magma Stone.

Cecil: What's this?

Cain: Apparently the way to the Underworld will open if you hold this up somewhere.

Yang: Somewhere?

Rosa: Where exactly would that be?

Cain: I don't know…

Cid: What's there to dwell on? We've got the Enterprise! We can zoom around the world in the blink of an eye!

Cecil: But we left it at the Tower of Zot…

Cid: Don't go sellin' me short, now! I told you she's the latest model! She came riiight back to Baron by remote control!

Yang: It is decided, then.

Rosa: Cid, we can always count on you!

Cid: Ain't it the truth? Hah! Well if that's what we're doin', let's head out first thing tomorrow! Get some shut-eye, then we're off to find the entrance to the Underworld!

Cecil: But… I wonder why Golbeza didn't finish me off back there…

Rosa: What's wrong?

Cecil: No, it's nothing… Let's rest…

Cecil: What's that!?

Cain: The Red Wings!

Yang: Are we a step too late!?

Cecil: Who's fighting them…?

Cid: Blast it! We're forcing our way through! Hold on tight!

Cid: Does it hurt, Enterprise? Hang in there for me!

Cecil: We're going down!

Cecil: Rosa!

Cecil: …Everyone all right?

Cid: Yeah… but the Enterprise is busted… Flyin' her like this'd be askin' for trouble.

Cecil: No choice… Let's get out.

Dwarf King: So you are unharmed.

Cecil: And you are?

Dwarf King: I am Giott, King of the Dwarves and ruler of this Underworld.

Cecil: What of the Dark Crystals!?

Giott: So that is indeed what brought you here. We thought you were with the others, but they were giving you quite a shelling. We very nearly shot you down ourselves.

Cain: Are the Underworld's Crystals still safe?

Giott: Sadly, two of the four have fallen into their hands.

Yang: So we were too late after all…

Giott: But the Crystal in this castle is still safe. The Dwarven tank corps drove them back, barely.

Rosa: So those were the tanks fighting the airships just now.

Giott: Oh, so you call those things airships? To think the world above has such things… Even our proud tank corps is a little hard-pressed when attacked from the sky… I know! Could you cover us with this airship of yours, as you call it?

Cid: Well, the thing is, what with that shelling and the crash landing, she's gone and got herself a bit busted.

Giott: If you need anything for repairs, shall I have it prepared?

Cid: I can patch her up for now, but the hull won't stand the heat of the Underworld's lava. We've got to go back to the surface and plate her in mythril! Right, I'll make a quick run up there!

Cecil: Cid!

Cid: Bah, I'll be right back! I'll come back better than ever, so be good and wait for me!

Rosa: Be careful…

Cid: Ho ho, Rosa! Don't go fallin' for me, now!

Cid left the party.

Cecil: King Giott, where exactly is this castle's Crystal?

Giott: Truth be told, it's in a hidden room behind this very throne! This way, as long as I'm alive, it's safe!

Yang: !

Cecil: What is it, Yang?

Yang: Someone's eavesdropping!

Giott: Who goes there!?

Cecil: There's no one here.

Yang: I sense a presence up ahead!

Giott: Open the doors!

Dwarf: Lali!

Cain: It won't open!

"Eee-hohoho."

Cecil: ?

Rosa: The dolls!

"We're the jolly Calcobrina!"

"Scary, cute little dolls!"

"Dummies!"

"Walking right in like that!"

"We'll beat you, and bring you…"

"…to Lord Golbeza as a present!"

"Eee-hohoho!"

"How dare you!"

"Owww!"

"But we already reported this place!"

"We'll be avenged!"

"Lord Golbeza!"

Cecil: What!?

"It has been a while…"

Cecil: Golbeza…!

Golbeza: I am much obliged to you for your assistance the other day. But the one who wielded Meteor is no more. So, by way of returning the favor from that day, I shall tell you why I have been gathering the Crystals. Eight Crystals in all, light and dark… together, they are the key to reawakening the Tower of Babil, the sealed path to the moon. It is said the moon holds a power beyond our human understanding. This Crystal makes seven… and thus only one remains. And for this, too, I have you to thank. It would be most discourteous of me not to return this favor as well. Accept it! This is my final gift to you!

Cecil: We beat him…! We beat Golbeza!

Rosa: Rydia, we owe it to you!

Cecil: But look at you…

Rydia: Leviathan swallowed me and took me to the Eidolon Realm.

Cecil: The Eidolon Realm?

Rydia: It's the world where the Eidolons live. They became my friends there. I can't use white magic anymore, but to make up for it, my summoning and black magic got stronger! But time flows differently in the Eidolon Realm than here…

Rosa: So that's how you grew up?

Cain: Cecil, who is this girl?

Cecil: Rydia, from the village of Mist.

Cain: That child!?

Yang: Well, this is a surprise…

Cecil: But why help us? I… your mom—

Rydia: Don't say it! The Queen of the Eidolon Realm told me… that a greater fate is now unfolding… and that we're the ones who have to stand against it…

Cecil: Rydia…!

Summoner Rydia joined the party!

"I… shall not die!"

Cecil: No! The Crystal!

Cecil: I'm sorry… The Crystal is in Golbeza's hands…

Giott: It can't be helped. Now we must guard the last Crystal with our lives.

Rosa: Where is the last Crystal?

Giott: In the Sealed Cave, to the southwest. Golbeza has gone there, but do not be alarmed. Without the key to its seal, none can enter that cave. And so, I have a favor to ask of you!

Cecil: It's our fault the Crystal was taken! If there's any way we can help…

Giott: With Golbeza bound for the Sealed Cave, now is our chance. Will you infiltrate the Tower of Babil and take back the seven Crystals?

Cain: The Tower of Babil?

Yang: You would have us infiltrate the enemy's own stronghold!?

Giott: Have no fear! Our tank corps will draw the enemy off! While they are busy, I want you to recapture the Crystals! With Golbeza gone, it's now or never!

Cain: What'll we do?

Rydia: It's the enemy's base, isn't it?

Rosa: It certainly is dangerous.

Yang: Yet one cannot take the tiger's cub without entering its den…

Cain: With Golbeza away, we won't get another chance.

Cecil: All right…

Cecil: We'll try!

King Giott: I am counting on you! Beneath this castle lies the entrance to a secret passage! Go as soon as you are ready! I pray fortune is with you in battle!

Obtained the Dark Crystal!

Got the King's permission? Then I'll let you through!

Doctor: Lord Rubicante, do take care…

Rubicante: Fear not. Eblana Castle, with its so-called ninjutsu, has already fallen. I leave things in your hands while I am away.

Doctor: Hyahyahya! No Lord Golbeza and no Rubicante! I'm in supreme command now!

Rydia: What a weird old man.

Rosa: Shh!

Doctor: Who's there?

Cecil: Blast!

Doctor: You! Cecil! When did you get in!

Cain: Heh. Rubicante's not around! Think you can beat us?

Doctor: Eeeegh! Don't mock me! I may not have been named one of the Four Archfiends, but I am Lukøje, the one they call Lord Golbeza's brain! I stake my pride on defending this Tower of Babil!

Cain: Don't make me laugh!

Dr. Lukøje: Grrrr! My beloved son, the creation of Lukøje himself, will have your heads!

Lukøje: Curse you! How dare you! Now you'll learn how truly terrifying I can be!

Dr. Lukøje: Hyahyahya… This Tower of Babil pierces the earth, linking the surface and the Underworld… Rubicante has already taken the Crystals to the surface! And the Giant Cannon I built will wipe out the Dwarves… Hyahyahyaaa!

Rydia: The Dwarves will be done for!

Yang: That Giant Cannon of theirs…

Cain: …we have to destroy it!

"Wahaha! Die, you Dwarf scum!"

Cecil: That's far enough!

"You lot!"

"How did you get in here!?"

"Get them!"

"Damn it! Then I'll do this!"

"Now no one can stop the Giant Cannon!"

Cecil: Oh no!

Cain: What have they done!

Cecil: Yang!

Rosa: What are you doing!?

Yang: Leave this to me! All of you, get out, quickly!

Rydia: No!

Cecil: It's going to blow, Yang!

Yang: …Forgive me!

Cecil: Yang!

Yang: Tell my wife… to live on for both of us!

Cain: Open up, Yang!

Rydia: Yang!

Rosa: Please! Don't do anything foolish!

Cecil: Yang!

Yang: It was a joyful journey!

Cecil: Open up, Yang!

Yang: Raaaaagh!

Cecil: Yang—!

"You do entertain me…"

Cecil: Golbeza!

Golbeza: Making merry while my back is turned? Playtime is over… It is time to say goodbye. Farewell…!

"Just in the nick of time!"

Rosa: Cid!

Cid: Hm? Where's Yang?

Rosa: Well…

Cecil: He stopped the Giant Cannon, and…

Cid: I see… Yang…

Rydia: Sniff…

Cid: And who's the young lady?

Cecil: The survivor from Mist… Rydia.

Cid: Tch! They're after us!

Cain: We can't shake them!?

Cid: We ought to be the faster ship…! Looks like they've souped up the Red Wings too!

Rydia: They're catching up!

Cid: Hang in there, Enterprise!

Cid: The engine won't hold! Take over, Cecil!

Rosa: Cid!

Cecil: Where are you going!?

Cid: Once the Enterprise is up top, I'll plug the hole with this bomb and stop 'em cold!

Rosa: Cid, not you too!

Cid: Heh… I'd have liked to see Rosa and Cecil's little ones… but I can't have Yang getting lonely. You head for Baron Castle and find my apprentices!

Cecil: Cid!

Rydia: Grandpa!

Cid: At least call me Uncle!

Cid: Got it? Now hurry to Baron Castle!

Cid: Golbeza! Behold the performance of a lifetime from Cid, airship engineer!

Rosa: Cid!

Rydia: Why does everyone…

Cain: Every last one of them in such a damn hurry to die!

Cecil: We head… for Baron!

Cecil! The boss asked us to make this hook and fit it to the Enterprise! It won't take a moment!

"Now you can lift the hovercraft and carry it around!"

"Stay aboard the Enterprise, line up over the hovercraft, and press the confirm button to hook it on or let it go!"

"Now you can reach the Cave of Eblana, too, which leads to the Tower of Babil!"

"Set the hovercraft down in the shallows by the continent, and switch over!"

Cecil: Actually, Cid is…

"So lively it wears you out, right?"

"Ha! You couldn't kill that guy if you tried!"

"Well, we've got a mountain of work, so we'd better go! Good luck!"

Man: At last we meet, Rubicante! I've been waiting for this day!

Rubicante: Oh? Have we met somewhere before?

Man: I'm the Prince of Eblana! The great Edge!

Rubicante: Eblana? Should that mean something to me?

Edge: You know damn well it does!

Edge: Damn… it!

Rubicante: Your strength certainly justifies your confidence… But you are no match for me yet. Go and hone your skills! I will take you on any time!

Edge: Get back… here… you…!

Cecil: Are you all right!?

Edge: P-pathetic… Me… losing like that!

Rydia: We're also after the Crystals Rubicante has.

Edge: Hands off! I'll… take him down… with my own hands!

Cain: He's one of the Four Archfiends. Your Princeliness.

Cecil: You've had a taste of his power!

Edge: Heh… Don't take me for some pampered little prince. Eblana's royal line has handed down the secret arts of the ninja for generations…! I'm a cut or two above… you chumps!

Rydia: Stop it! I don't want anyone else to die!

Rydia: Tella, Yang… and even Uncle Cid! All of them… all of them!

Edge: H-hey now…

Rosa: Rydia…

Rydia: Sniff…

Cecil: …He's the strongest of the Four Archfiends. We don't even know if we stand a chance! But we have to take the Crystals back from them!

Edge: …Can't say no when such a pretty gal is crying over it… This time, whaddaya say… we team up and go for it?

Cain: Honestly. All beat up, and that princely mouth of his still won't quit. I can't bear to look at him. Hey, Rosa.

Rosa: Cura!

Edge: Thanks, sweetheart! You're pretty cute yourself!

Edge: Awright! Let's all play nice and storm in there together!

Rydia: Hmph. Smooth talker!

Ninja Edge joined the party!

Cecil: How do we get inside?

Edge: Heheh! This is my pass-through-walls technique!

Edge: Here goes!

King of Eblana: Edge…

Edge: Dad! Mom!

Queen of Eblana: Thank goodness… You're safe too…

Edge: You too, Mom!

Queen of Eblana: Edge… Come…

King of Eblana: …along with us…

Edge: Where?

Queen: To hell!

Cecil: Look out!

Edge: AAAAAAAGH!

Rosa: How horrible…!

Rubicante: That Lukøje, taking such liberties…!

Edge: Rubicante! I'll never forgive you! NEVER!!

Rubicante: Turning your king and queen into monsters was Lukøje's own doing… For that discourtesy, I apologize… Unlike the others, I wish to fight fair and square.

Edge: Quit spouting all that crap!!

Rubicante: I'm fond of those with courage, such as yourself. …But a human swayed by such emotions can never attain complete strength. Not for all eternity…

Edge: Then I'll show you… this 'human' thing…

…we call anger!

Anger awakened Edge's dormant power!

Edge learned Flood and Blitz!

Rubicante: Hmm… So what you call anger makes humans stronger, does it? But my cloak of flame yields not even to the cold!

Rubicante: Now, let me heal you! Come at me with all your might!

Rubicante: I see… So that was the way… For even the weak… to join forces… Splendid! No wonder Lord Golbeza has had his hands full with you. You were fine… warriors! Fare… well!

Edge: …

Dad…

Mom…

I've avenged you…!

"Young master!"

Edge: Gramps! Everyone!

Retainer: We will fight too! Where is Rubicante!?

Edge: It's already over!

Retainer: Oh, that's our young master!

Edge: All thanks to these folks!

Retainer: It was you!

Edge: But who's this Golbeza?

Cain: The one pulling Rubicante's strings. He's gathering the Crystals, and plots to go to the moon!

Edge: The ol' moon up there? What for?

Cecil: It's said there's something on the moon with enough power to destroy the world.

Rydia: We're going to stop it!

Edge: Golbeza, huh! So all of this was because of him… I won't let him get away with it!

Retainer: But young master, you must rebuild the castle!

Edge: It's not just Eblana! The whole world's in danger! I'm gonna pound this Golbeza guy with my own two hands!

Retainer: Please, do take care…!

Edge: I know, I know! Now, leave the rest to me!

Retainer: Very well! We will mind the home while you are away! Good people, please look after the young master! Everyone! We're going back!

Everyone: Good fortune in battle, young master!

Edge: You got it!

Edge: Awright! Let's go knock Golbeza flat!

Rydia: We're taking the Crystals back!

Edge: I know, I know! C'mon, let's go!

Cecil: A trapdoor!?