WAXF Script
< Act 1-5 >
[The map of Elesius is seen. The camera zooms in on the capital, and we see an image of the castle.]
-Elensia City: Elesius Castle-
-Council of Elder Statesmen's Chamber-
[A man has his eyes closed as he holds a lit cigarette in his hand. Behind him is an overweight woman in noble garb, smirking.]
Toad-Like Woman: ...
Toad-Like Woman: As always, you're preceded by the vulgar stench of tobacco.
Toad-Like Woman: Does it please you to summon me as if I were a common servant? I suppose such boorishness is to be expected from those of lesser birth.
Smoking Man: ...
[The man turns and opens his eyes to look at her, looking displeased.]
Smoking Man: ...We've received a report from Creedmore. Apparently all of the prisoners have escaped.
Toad-Like Woman: Hmph. This is because you stalled the executions for so long, Charlton.
Charlton: It is the council's duty to employ proper methods of governance.
[He smirks.]
Charlton: But your habit of needlessly tormenting the populace... Perhaps you fancy yourself a monster from a children's storybook?
[The woman frowns and gnashes her teeth, holding up a fist.]
Toad-Like Woman: Such an insolent tongue! To compare my methods to a mere children's story...!
[Charlton frowns again.]
Charlton: The people need sound leadership and proper guidance.
If bloodshed is required in order to achieve that, it is imperative that we keep it to an absolute minimum.
Charlton: Perhaps you should consider refining your methods a bit, Reverend Mother Edna?
[The woman, Edna, places a hand on her hip, still gnashing her teeth.]
Edna: This whole Creedmore business was your idea in the first place, Charlton. Now if that'll be all, I've got other business to attend to.
[She turns to leave.]
Charlton: ...
Charlton: Then perhaps you would be interested to hear that the liberator of the prison camp was the late Princess Royal Alexia?
[Edna turns around again, holding a hand up.]
Edna: --BUH?!
Edna: ...
Edna: That...that little chit of a princess? That's impossible! I saw to it that...um, I mean... Um...
[She places her hand back on her hip and looks away, as if to feign innocence.]
Edna: ...
Charlton: We should have anticipated the possibility after they failed to recover her body.
[She frowns and holds her fist up again.]
Edna: No, no, it can only be an imposter! An imposter using Alexia's name to incite a rebellion!
[Charlton folds his arms.]
Charlton: Hmm...
Charlton: Using a fake princess as a figurehead to foment political unrest... You certainly make it sound plausible.
Edna: What, you're just going to leave it at that?!
Coarse Voice: Perhaps you'd like to set me after her, Mr. Charlton?
[Edna turns around and steps back as Rupert enters the room with a smirk on his face. Charlton's serious expression is back.]
Edna: Rupert Dandridge?! Since when did they start allowing stray dogs into the Council Chamber?
Charlton: I hadn't pegged you as the type to take up work like that on your own...
Rupert: In the month since I got here, the work's been nothing but dull. I'm ready for some action.
Rupert: And I mean, a lass parading around as a ghost princess? Sounds too good to pass up. So how about I go expose her for ya?
[Charlton's expression turns sour.]
Charlton: It's not a matter for you to concern yourself with. You don't even know what Princess Alexia looks like.
Rupert: Heh. You have a point.
Edna: Focus on your own job--getting the Martial Guard in order!
Rupert: All right, all right. Just sayin', I'm up for whatever, so long as the money's good.
Edna: Such impudence... Despicable!
Charlton: I'll send my subordinates to handle it. As you say, this situation must be addressed promptly.
[The screen fades to black before it switches over to Clarissa's group on a hill. She, Felius and Labyrinthia stand on one side as Levin stands before them.]
Levin: This is where we part ways, Your Highness. Take care on the road back to Poliasha!
Clarissa: Thank you, Levin. You saved us all back there. Not just me, but the people of Poliasha, too.
[Levin folds his hands behind his head and closes his eyes, looking a little smug.]
Levin: Heh heh! You really mean that! Man, to be praised by Princess Alexia herself...!
Tony: ...
[Labyrinthia brings a hand up to her chin in thought.]
Labyrinthia: (Hmmm... Tony seems to have taken quite an interest in Clarissa lately...)
Clarissa: ...
[Levin lets his arms fall back to his sides, looking worried.]
Levin: Huh? Your Highness...? Are you not feeling well or something?
Labyrinthia: My, look at the time. You'd best be on your way, Levin.
[Levin brings his hands behind his head again.]
Levin: Geez, Ms. Wordsworth, talk about a buzzkill...
Labyrinthia: Please give my regards to your father, the Captain of the Royal Guard.
[Levin places a hand to his heart.]
Levin: Once I tell Father about the conditions of this country, and the attacks by the Martial Guard, and about who's behind those attacks...
Well, I bet it'll finally sink through that thick skull of his.
Levin: And now the princess is back, too! Elesius really can return to the way things used to be, when all anyone wanted was to live in peace...
[Clarissa loses her smile.]
Clarissa: ...All anyone wanted was to live in peace...
Levin: Next time you see me, the Royal Knights'll be right behind me! Together, we can reclaim that peace! Until then...!
[Levin turns and leaves. The screen fades to black and switches back to the world map. There's a yellow ! on the town of Poliasha.]
-Poliasha-
[Though the city is wrecked, the villagers have returned. Two men stand before Clarissa and Labyrinthia.]
Brandon: I never thought I'd get to see this place again...
Fellman: It's all thanks to you, Your Highness.
Clarissa: Working to reclaim the peace that we've lost is a duty that all citizens of Elesius share. I'll be counting on you to continue the struggle.
Brandon: Truly, we can't thank you enough, Your Highness.
Fellman: I will never forget the debt that we owe you!
[The two men turn and leave and a young woman takes their place. Clarissa looks surprised.]
Krelia: Um... You...Your Highness...?
May I...speak with you?
Clarissa: Who are you?
Krelia: I, um... Until a fewmonths ago, I was a servant working for His Majesty...
Krelia: I...I made a foolish mistake, and was sent to the prison... But, um...what I wanted to say is...
Labyrinthia: Please, calm down and try to speak slowly.
Krelia: I'm sorry...
I was hoping to speak to Her Highness about her honored father, His Majesty King Hrathnir.
Krelia: While His Majesty had been bedridden for quite some time, his condition has taken a turn for the worse recently, and continues to decline...
[Clarissa looks shocked.]
Clarissa: His Majesty the King?!
Krelia: ...?
[Clarissa regains her composure.]
Labyrinthia: Please continue.
Krelia: Now that Your Highness has returned, I would respectfully suggest that you visit His Majesty as soon as possible, before...um...
Clarissa: I understand. Thank you, you've been most helpful.
Krelia: Of course, Your Highness.
[She turns and leaves. Clarissa looks down just as Felius arrives.]
Felius: Are you feeling all right, Clarissa?
Clarissa: Yeah, thanks... I'm fine. I'm just a little tired...
Clarissa: ...
Clarissa: Lying to people like this... It just feels so horrible.
Clarissa: Even if the lie was intended to save them...
Felius: ...
Clarissa: Felius... How long am I going to have to continue this?
Felius: ...Clarissa...
[Labyrinthia hangs her head.]
Labyrinthia: I'm sorry... If you hadn't encountered me, you wouldn't have become involved in all this...
Clarissa: It's not your fault, Labyrinthia.
Felius: It was inevitable that we'd collide head-on with these issues during our pursuit of Rupert.
Felius: Your lie didn't cause this situation. The blame for this rests on someone else's shoulders.
[Clarissa hangs her head again.]
Clarissa: Even so... I'm still going to have to deal with the consequences of it...
Felius: ...
[Labyrinthia looks up with a determined expression, surprising Clarissa into looking up as well.]
Labyrinthia: Clarissa!
Labyrinthia: I pledge to you, Clarissa, you who have risked your own life for the kingdom of Elesius, the same loyalty that I hold for the late Princess Alexia herself.
[Clarissa is shocked.]
Clarissa: What...?! Stop that, Labyrinthia! That's too weird!
Labyrinthia: No. It is my responsibility. Having lived twice as long as you, I have a duty to act as a responsible adult.
[Her expression softens.]
Labyrinthia: Please allow me to protect you from whatever perils might befall you in this land!
Clarissa: ...Labyrinthia...
Clarissa: ...
Clarissa: I'm sorry... It's really my fault for letting myself get down like this. I can't just sit around--
[They're interrupted when the innkeeper walks up to them.]
Innkeeper Ellen: I had a little business I wanted to discuss with y'all... Oh, am I interruptin' somethin'?
Clarissa: Not at all. I can't mope around like this forever, after all!
Innkeeper Ellen: ...?
Innkeeper Ellen: I haven't got a clue what you're talkin' about, hon, but whatever. Could you meet me back at the lodge?
Clarissa: Sure. We'll be there in a moment.
Innkeeper Ellen: I'll be waitin'.
[She turns and leaves and the player is allowed to go through town.]
(Shop)
Shopkeeper Brown: I never thought I'd get to sit behind this counter again... Thank you so much, Princess...
Shopkeeper Brown (Talk): There was some drunkard tending to the store when I returned. Quite a surprise, let me tell you...
--
Borhath the Drifter: Never in my dreams did I imagine seeing Lady Alexia with my own eyes...! I've never been so happy in all my life!
--
Foreign Traveler: You're...you're the princess of this kingdom?! W...wow! This is amazing! I've never spoken with someone so...well, so royal!
Oh, uh, can I shake your hand? And lemme get your autograph, too!
(Synth. Shop)
Alejandro: Hee hee... I can't wait to tell Muehlen that Lady Alexia visited his store while he was out! He'll probably break down in tears!
--
Gilliam the Drifter: The Jelly Blob is a gelatin-like creature that lives near bodies of water.
Their rubbery bodies are hard to damage with weapons. If you need to fight one, magic is the way to go, no doubt about it.
Of course, if the Blob's in the water, then not even magic will have much effect. You'll need a way to get them on terra firma first...
(Plaza)
Brandon: Thank heavens. Oh, thank heavens...
Elesius may be enveloped in dark clouds, but Lady Alexia's return is sure to bring hope to our kingdom's entire population.
--
Fellman: *Sob* I always knew you were alive... Oh, Prinnnnncesssss!!
(Inn)
Innkeeper Ellen: Hey, thanks for comin' over here. I wouldn't want to discuss this anywhere else.
[Clarissa brings a finger to her cheek, confused.]
Clarissa: ...?
Innkeeper Ellen: First off, I need to thank you for saving us all.
Innkeeper Ellen: And about you not really bein' the princess... I'll keep that to myself. It'll be our little secret.
Clarissa: ...
Innkeeper Ellen: In dark times like these, we need a little sunlight.
Innkeeper Ellen: So... Well, not just for that, but...I'm gonna wipe your tab clean. Your food and lodging the other night... That's on me.
[Clarissa smiles happily.]
Clarissa: Really?!
Innkeeper Ellen: Hey, now, don't get all excited on me. You're supposed to be a princess, remember?
Clarissa: Oh... Sorry...
Innkeeper Ellen: Now, I know it's pretty rude for me to do this to a princess, but... Could I ask you a favor?
Clarissa: Sure! I couldn't possibly refuse you.
Innkeeper Ellen: A whole bunch o' mush bugs popped up while we were out of the village, and I'd like you to go wipe 'em out for us.
[Clarissa looks confused.]
Clarissa: ...Mush bugs?
Innkeeper Ellen: Ah, they got some fancy name for 'em over on the coast... Jelly blobs, I think? Anyway, they're always ruinin' our boats and fishin' gear.
Innkeeper Ellen: Usually around this season, the whole village goes out with torches in hand to burn 'em off, but this year we need everyone to help with the rebuildin'.
[Clarissa smiles.]
Clarissa: I understand. So how about in addiction to clearing our tab, you throw in dinner tonight, and we'll call it a deal?
Innkeeper Ellen: You sure know how to work those angles, Your Highness.
Innkeeper Ellen: If the job turns out to be too much to handle, you could try to hire some Drifters to help. I run a little Drifter agency here as a side business, y'know.
Clarissa: Hah! Now who's working the angles!
-You can now hire Drifters at the bar.-
-Tutorial: Hiring Drifters-
*You are now able to hire freelance mercenaries (Drifters) to join your party.
*When hiring a Drifter, press the L or R buttons to roll their base parameters, then choose a starting class, gender, and voice type for them.
*Finally, choose the Drifter's starting level, give him or her a name, and the Drifter will join your party as a new unit.
(Inn)
Ellen: I see my faire share of freelance Drifters come through here. If you want to hire any, just ask. You oughta be able to find a good, reliable one!
Ellen (Talk): If you hire a Drifter, you can send him on search. He'll revisit places you've already been to and fetch all kinds of useful items.
Of course, you'll have to pay the Drifter an appropriate fee for the trouble, but they say that some items can only be found on search.
Also, about that Item Scope you found in the prison... That thing should be useful in searching, if I recall correctly.
I think Jim was talking about it earlier. Why don't you ask him about it? He's drinking over there in the corner.
---
Jim the Drunk: Oh, hey, you found an Item Scope? If you send a hired Drifter on search with one of those, it'll be easier for him to find better items.
In fact, the more Item Scopes you can gather, the nicer the items he'll bring back for you.
...And there was something else Item Scopes could do, too... Someone told me about this...
What the heck was it...? Ah, well. I'm sure I'll remember it sooner or later!
---
Krelia: I am gravely concerned for King Hrathnir's condition.
Princess Alexia, please return to the palace and visit His Majesty as soon as possible. He must know about your safe return.
-You can now use the "Search" menu.-
-Tutorial: About Searching-
* Select the "Search" command from the main menu to send a hired Drifter out to search for items.
* You can only send Drifters to areas that are currently available. They cannot explore areas marked by story event icons (red! or yellow!).
* Each area has its own set of items you may be able to obtain on search.
* The units you send out on search will return to you after a set period of time.
* Time will pass as you engage in free battles: you can also spend gella in the "Search" menu to force time to pass.
* Units that are out on search cannot take part in battles, and they do not earn EXP or CSP from free battles.
* You cannot enter areas marked by story event icons while units are out on search.
* You can discontinue a search early and call your units back at any time, but this will eliminate any chance of them retrieving items for you.
[When you leave Poliasha, the location Rusty Docks will appear with a red ! on it. Entering will take you to the Tactical Map.]
=D.E.R.=
Labyrinthia: Let's take a look at the Tactical Map we'll be fighting on.
Labyrinthia: We'll be starting here.
Labyrinthia: In quests when you have your choice of party size and makeup, your starting point will be displayed by colored HEXes like these.
Use the "View Map" command to see where your units will begin the battle. It's a good idea to check this every time you set off for the battlefield.
Labyrinthia: The enemy line looks like this.
Labyrinthia: Our mission here is to defeat the Jelly Blobs... those "mush bugs" Ellen told us about.
Labyrinthia: Jelly Blobs are known for their high resistance to all forms of physical attack.
Labyrinthia: The Blobs are weak against magic, however, so an Elementalist-centric party would be the wisest plan of action...
Labyrinthia: However, magic attacks will have little effect in the water, so the first order of business is to get the monsters on solid land.
Labyrinthia: Note these lanterns floating in the water. Jelly Blobs detest fire; if we can light up all of the lanterns, I imagine that would make them flee for land.
Labyrinthia: That's when the real battle will begin.
Labyrinthia: USe a fire-based skill on the lanterns to light them up. You can also use a water-based skill on them if you want to put them out.
Labyrinthia: We'll want to be careful about those Gremalkins over there, though...
Labyrinthia: Gremalkins work the opposite way from Jelly Blobs. Magic attacks are mostly ineffective against them.
Labyrinthia: It'll be important to strike a balance in your party between anti-Blob units and anti-Gremalkin units.
Labyrinthia: Use the class-changing abilities of ARMs to create the most effective party possible.
[The battle ends when all the enemies have been defeated. Back on the world map, Poliasha is marked with a yellow !.]
-Poliasha-
[Clarissa stands before Labyrinthia and Felius, giving them a serious look.]
Clarissa: I've given it some thought, and...well, I think I'd like to continue playing the role of the princess for a little while longer.
[Felius frowns and Labyrinthia's mouth widens in surprise.]
Felius: --!
Labyrinthia: Huh?!
Clarissa: This isn't me being my usual reckless self. I really did think this through before deciding.
Felius: May I ask why?
Clarissa: I don't intend to continue playing the part of the princess forever. If anything, it's the opposite.
Clarissa: I have to break free of this lie as soon as possible.
The only way to do so is to return this country to the true royal family.
Labyrinthia: You mean His Majesty, King Hrathnir?
Clarissa: Yeah.
Clarissa: I just need to free the king from the influence of the Council and then explain the situation to him. Then we can return the country to its rightful rule.
Felius: ...
Felius: If we're going to clash with the Counil, then we'll probably run into Rupert along the way. But, Clarissa...
Clarissa: I know. This means I'll have to bear an even heavier burden...
Clarissa: But I want to do this. I want to lead the people of Elesius back to the peaceful lives they once knew.
[Felius closes his eyes.]
Felius: If that's your decision, then I will accompany you.
[Clarissa smiles.]
Clarissa: ...Thank you, Felius.
[Labyrinthia brings her hand to her chin in thought.]
Labyrinthia: In that case, I've got an idea that might help. We need to report back in any case, so why don't we discuss it further at Ellen's place?
[Clarissa's smile becomes nervous.]
Clarissa: Sure, that's fine, but...what sort of idea? That makes me a little nervous...
[Labyrinthia smiles broadly.]
Labyrinthia: Oh, it's no big deal. Just a little way to speed your transformation along. That's all, really.
(Inn)
[Clarissa is now dressed in regal blue clothes with a cape.]
Clarissa: These clothes are so frilly it feels so weird...
Innkeeper Ellen: Wow, how's that sayin' go? "Fine feathers make fine fowl"? Dressed like that, you really do look like honest-to-goodness royalty!
Innkeeper Ellen: You sure you're not really a princess or somethin' from somewhere else?
Innkeeper Ellen: It's not just the clothes, y'know. I can sense a vague air of nobility about you, too.
Clarissa: Well, please don't! I don't have any of that!
[Labyrinthia puts her hands on her hips and puffs out her chest, one eye closed as if winking.]
Labyrinthia: I explained the situation to the people of Poliasha, and they took care of everything, from producing the fabric to sewing the garments.
Labyrinthia: Now no one could possibly doubt that you truly are Alexia Lynn Elesius, Princess Royal of the Kingdom of Elesius.
Clarissa: You don't think we're overdoing it a bit?
Labyrinthia: Not at all. This is perfect.
Labyrinthia: Just the sort of plan you'd expect from a capable woman like me! ...Ahem.
[Clarissa puts her fists on her hips and pouts.]
Clarissa: Oh, you're all just loving this, aren't you? Go ahead, laugh it up! Have your fun!
[Tony comes in between them and yawns.]
Brandon: Bwaaaaahhhhh!!!
[Everyone tenses up.]
Felius: --!
Labyrinthia: What's going on out there?
Fellman: There's a messenger! From...from the Council of Elder Statesmen!
Clarissa: ...The Council...
[Clarissa and Felius run outside and run into a blue-robed man.]
Clarissa: Felius...
Felius: Yes... This certainly confirms our suspicion that Rupert is involved with the Council.
Robed Man: ...
Robed Man: I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own two eyes... I am so please to see that you truly are alived, Your Highness.
Clarissa: ...
Robed Man: However, I hope Your Highness understands that this nation has undergone many changes during your absence.
Clarissa: And you think that's an excuse for the horrors the Council has put my people through?!
Robed Man: Respectfully, Your Highness, I was not send here to fight with you at this time.
[Clarissa untenses a little, but still keeps a serious look.]
Robed Man: If it please Your Highness, I was asked merely to relay the wishes of Council Chairman Charlton Blunt.
Robed Man: The honorable Chairman seeks only what is best for the national interests of Elesius. He hopes to resolve this matter in as peaceful a manner as possible.
Clarissa: --?!
[The screen fades to black and the player is prompted to save.]
[The map of Elesius is seen. The camera zooms in on the capital, and we see an image of the castle.]
-Elensia City: Elesius Castle-
-Council of Elder Statesmen's Chamber-
[A man has his eyes closed as he holds a lit cigarette in his hand. Behind him is an overweight woman in noble garb, smirking.]
Toad-Like Woman: ...
Toad-Like Woman: As always, you're preceded by the vulgar stench of tobacco.
Toad-Like Woman: Does it please you to summon me as if I were a common servant? I suppose such boorishness is to be expected from those of lesser birth.
Smoking Man: ...
[The man turns and opens his eyes to look at her, looking displeased.]
Smoking Man: ...We've received a report from Creedmore. Apparently all of the prisoners have escaped.
Toad-Like Woman: Hmph. This is because you stalled the executions for so long, Charlton.
Charlton: It is the council's duty to employ proper methods of governance.
[He smirks.]
Charlton: But your habit of needlessly tormenting the populace... Perhaps you fancy yourself a monster from a children's storybook?
[The woman frowns and gnashes her teeth, holding up a fist.]
Toad-Like Woman: Such an insolent tongue! To compare my methods to a mere children's story...!
[Charlton frowns again.]
Charlton: The people need sound leadership and proper guidance.
If bloodshed is required in order to achieve that, it is imperative that we keep it to an absolute minimum.
Charlton: Perhaps you should consider refining your methods a bit, Reverend Mother Edna?
[The woman, Edna, places a hand on her hip, still gnashing her teeth.]
Edna: This whole Creedmore business was your idea in the first place, Charlton. Now if that'll be all, I've got other business to attend to.
[She turns to leave.]
Charlton: ...
Charlton: Then perhaps you would be interested to hear that the liberator of the prison camp was the late Princess Royal Alexia?
[Edna turns around again, holding a hand up.]
Edna: --BUH?!
Edna: ...
Edna: That...that little chit of a princess? That's impossible! I saw to it that...um, I mean... Um...
[She places her hand back on her hip and looks away, as if to feign innocence.]
Edna: ...
Charlton: We should have anticipated the possibility after they failed to recover her body.
[She frowns and holds her fist up again.]
Edna: No, no, it can only be an imposter! An imposter using Alexia's name to incite a rebellion!
[Charlton folds his arms.]
Charlton: Hmm...
Charlton: Using a fake princess as a figurehead to foment political unrest... You certainly make it sound plausible.
Edna: What, you're just going to leave it at that?!
Coarse Voice: Perhaps you'd like to set me after her, Mr. Charlton?
[Edna turns around and steps back as Rupert enters the room with a smirk on his face. Charlton's serious expression is back.]
Edna: Rupert Dandridge?! Since when did they start allowing stray dogs into the Council Chamber?
Charlton: I hadn't pegged you as the type to take up work like that on your own...
Rupert: In the month since I got here, the work's been nothing but dull. I'm ready for some action.
Rupert: And I mean, a lass parading around as a ghost princess? Sounds too good to pass up. So how about I go expose her for ya?
[Charlton's expression turns sour.]
Charlton: It's not a matter for you to concern yourself with. You don't even know what Princess Alexia looks like.
Rupert: Heh. You have a point.
Edna: Focus on your own job--getting the Martial Guard in order!
Rupert: All right, all right. Just sayin', I'm up for whatever, so long as the money's good.
Edna: Such impudence... Despicable!
Charlton: I'll send my subordinates to handle it. As you say, this situation must be addressed promptly.
[The screen fades to black before it switches over to Clarissa's group on a hill. She, Felius and Labyrinthia stand on one side as Levin stands before them.]
Levin: This is where we part ways, Your Highness. Take care on the road back to Poliasha!
Clarissa: Thank you, Levin. You saved us all back there. Not just me, but the people of Poliasha, too.
[Levin folds his hands behind his head and closes his eyes, looking a little smug.]
Levin: Heh heh! You really mean that! Man, to be praised by Princess Alexia herself...!
Tony: ...
[Labyrinthia brings a hand up to her chin in thought.]
Labyrinthia: (Hmmm... Tony seems to have taken quite an interest in Clarissa lately...)
Clarissa: ...
[Levin lets his arms fall back to his sides, looking worried.]
Levin: Huh? Your Highness...? Are you not feeling well or something?
Labyrinthia: My, look at the time. You'd best be on your way, Levin.
[Levin brings his hands behind his head again.]
Levin: Geez, Ms. Wordsworth, talk about a buzzkill...
Labyrinthia: Please give my regards to your father, the Captain of the Royal Guard.
[Levin places a hand to his heart.]
Levin: Once I tell Father about the conditions of this country, and the attacks by the Martial Guard, and about who's behind those attacks...
Well, I bet it'll finally sink through that thick skull of his.
Levin: And now the princess is back, too! Elesius really can return to the way things used to be, when all anyone wanted was to live in peace...
[Clarissa loses her smile.]
Clarissa: ...All anyone wanted was to live in peace...
Levin: Next time you see me, the Royal Knights'll be right behind me! Together, we can reclaim that peace! Until then...!
[Levin turns and leaves. The screen fades to black and switches back to the world map. There's a yellow ! on the town of Poliasha.]
-Poliasha-
[Though the city is wrecked, the villagers have returned. Two men stand before Clarissa and Labyrinthia.]
Brandon: I never thought I'd get to see this place again...
Fellman: It's all thanks to you, Your Highness.
Clarissa: Working to reclaim the peace that we've lost is a duty that all citizens of Elesius share. I'll be counting on you to continue the struggle.
Brandon: Truly, we can't thank you enough, Your Highness.
Fellman: I will never forget the debt that we owe you!
[The two men turn and leave and a young woman takes their place. Clarissa looks surprised.]
Krelia: Um... You...Your Highness...?
May I...speak with you?
Clarissa: Who are you?
Krelia: I, um... Until a fewmonths ago, I was a servant working for His Majesty...
Krelia: I...I made a foolish mistake, and was sent to the prison... But, um...what I wanted to say is...
Labyrinthia: Please, calm down and try to speak slowly.
Krelia: I'm sorry...
I was hoping to speak to Her Highness about her honored father, His Majesty King Hrathnir.
Krelia: While His Majesty had been bedridden for quite some time, his condition has taken a turn for the worse recently, and continues to decline...
[Clarissa looks shocked.]
Clarissa: His Majesty the King?!
Krelia: ...?
[Clarissa regains her composure.]
Labyrinthia: Please continue.
Krelia: Now that Your Highness has returned, I would respectfully suggest that you visit His Majesty as soon as possible, before...um...
Clarissa: I understand. Thank you, you've been most helpful.
Krelia: Of course, Your Highness.
[She turns and leaves. Clarissa looks down just as Felius arrives.]
Felius: Are you feeling all right, Clarissa?
Clarissa: Yeah, thanks... I'm fine. I'm just a little tired...
Clarissa: ...
Clarissa: Lying to people like this... It just feels so horrible.
Clarissa: Even if the lie was intended to save them...
Felius: ...
Clarissa: Felius... How long am I going to have to continue this?
Felius: ...Clarissa...
[Labyrinthia hangs her head.]
Labyrinthia: I'm sorry... If you hadn't encountered me, you wouldn't have become involved in all this...
Clarissa: It's not your fault, Labyrinthia.
Felius: It was inevitable that we'd collide head-on with these issues during our pursuit of Rupert.
Felius: Your lie didn't cause this situation. The blame for this rests on someone else's shoulders.
[Clarissa hangs her head again.]
Clarissa: Even so... I'm still going to have to deal with the consequences of it...
Felius: ...
[Labyrinthia looks up with a determined expression, surprising Clarissa into looking up as well.]
Labyrinthia: Clarissa!
Labyrinthia: I pledge to you, Clarissa, you who have risked your own life for the kingdom of Elesius, the same loyalty that I hold for the late Princess Alexia herself.
[Clarissa is shocked.]
Clarissa: What...?! Stop that, Labyrinthia! That's too weird!
Labyrinthia: No. It is my responsibility. Having lived twice as long as you, I have a duty to act as a responsible adult.
[Her expression softens.]
Labyrinthia: Please allow me to protect you from whatever perils might befall you in this land!
Clarissa: ...Labyrinthia...
Clarissa: ...
Clarissa: I'm sorry... It's really my fault for letting myself get down like this. I can't just sit around--
[They're interrupted when the innkeeper walks up to them.]
Innkeeper Ellen: I had a little business I wanted to discuss with y'all... Oh, am I interruptin' somethin'?
Clarissa: Not at all. I can't mope around like this forever, after all!
Innkeeper Ellen: ...?
Innkeeper Ellen: I haven't got a clue what you're talkin' about, hon, but whatever. Could you meet me back at the lodge?
Clarissa: Sure. We'll be there in a moment.
Innkeeper Ellen: I'll be waitin'.
[She turns and leaves and the player is allowed to go through town.]
(Shop)
Shopkeeper Brown: I never thought I'd get to sit behind this counter again... Thank you so much, Princess...
Shopkeeper Brown (Talk): There was some drunkard tending to the store when I returned. Quite a surprise, let me tell you...
--
Borhath the Drifter: Never in my dreams did I imagine seeing Lady Alexia with my own eyes...! I've never been so happy in all my life!
--
Foreign Traveler: You're...you're the princess of this kingdom?! W...wow! This is amazing! I've never spoken with someone so...well, so royal!
Oh, uh, can I shake your hand? And lemme get your autograph, too!
(Synth. Shop)
Alejandro: Hee hee... I can't wait to tell Muehlen that Lady Alexia visited his store while he was out! He'll probably break down in tears!
--
Gilliam the Drifter: The Jelly Blob is a gelatin-like creature that lives near bodies of water.
Their rubbery bodies are hard to damage with weapons. If you need to fight one, magic is the way to go, no doubt about it.
Of course, if the Blob's in the water, then not even magic will have much effect. You'll need a way to get them on terra firma first...
(Plaza)
Brandon: Thank heavens. Oh, thank heavens...
Elesius may be enveloped in dark clouds, but Lady Alexia's return is sure to bring hope to our kingdom's entire population.
--
Fellman: *Sob* I always knew you were alive... Oh, Prinnnnncesssss!!
(Inn)
Innkeeper Ellen: Hey, thanks for comin' over here. I wouldn't want to discuss this anywhere else.
[Clarissa brings a finger to her cheek, confused.]
Clarissa: ...?
Innkeeper Ellen: First off, I need to thank you for saving us all.
Innkeeper Ellen: And about you not really bein' the princess... I'll keep that to myself. It'll be our little secret.
Clarissa: ...
Innkeeper Ellen: In dark times like these, we need a little sunlight.
Innkeeper Ellen: So... Well, not just for that, but...I'm gonna wipe your tab clean. Your food and lodging the other night... That's on me.
[Clarissa smiles happily.]
Clarissa: Really?!
Innkeeper Ellen: Hey, now, don't get all excited on me. You're supposed to be a princess, remember?
Clarissa: Oh... Sorry...
Innkeeper Ellen: Now, I know it's pretty rude for me to do this to a princess, but... Could I ask you a favor?
Clarissa: Sure! I couldn't possibly refuse you.
Innkeeper Ellen: A whole bunch o' mush bugs popped up while we were out of the village, and I'd like you to go wipe 'em out for us.
[Clarissa looks confused.]
Clarissa: ...Mush bugs?
Innkeeper Ellen: Ah, they got some fancy name for 'em over on the coast... Jelly blobs, I think? Anyway, they're always ruinin' our boats and fishin' gear.
Innkeeper Ellen: Usually around this season, the whole village goes out with torches in hand to burn 'em off, but this year we need everyone to help with the rebuildin'.
[Clarissa smiles.]
Clarissa: I understand. So how about in addiction to clearing our tab, you throw in dinner tonight, and we'll call it a deal?
Innkeeper Ellen: You sure know how to work those angles, Your Highness.
Innkeeper Ellen: If the job turns out to be too much to handle, you could try to hire some Drifters to help. I run a little Drifter agency here as a side business, y'know.
Clarissa: Hah! Now who's working the angles!
-You can now hire Drifters at the bar.-
-Tutorial: Hiring Drifters-
*You are now able to hire freelance mercenaries (Drifters) to join your party.
*When hiring a Drifter, press the L or R buttons to roll their base parameters, then choose a starting class, gender, and voice type for them.
*Finally, choose the Drifter's starting level, give him or her a name, and the Drifter will join your party as a new unit.
(Inn)
Ellen: I see my faire share of freelance Drifters come through here. If you want to hire any, just ask. You oughta be able to find a good, reliable one!
Ellen (Talk): If you hire a Drifter, you can send him on search. He'll revisit places you've already been to and fetch all kinds of useful items.
Of course, you'll have to pay the Drifter an appropriate fee for the trouble, but they say that some items can only be found on search.
Also, about that Item Scope you found in the prison... That thing should be useful in searching, if I recall correctly.
I think Jim was talking about it earlier. Why don't you ask him about it? He's drinking over there in the corner.
---
Jim the Drunk: Oh, hey, you found an Item Scope? If you send a hired Drifter on search with one of those, it'll be easier for him to find better items.
In fact, the more Item Scopes you can gather, the nicer the items he'll bring back for you.
...And there was something else Item Scopes could do, too... Someone told me about this...
What the heck was it...? Ah, well. I'm sure I'll remember it sooner or later!
---
Krelia: I am gravely concerned for King Hrathnir's condition.
Princess Alexia, please return to the palace and visit His Majesty as soon as possible. He must know about your safe return.
-You can now use the "Search" menu.-
-Tutorial: About Searching-
* Select the "Search" command from the main menu to send a hired Drifter out to search for items.
* You can only send Drifters to areas that are currently available. They cannot explore areas marked by story event icons (red! or yellow!).
* Each area has its own set of items you may be able to obtain on search.
* The units you send out on search will return to you after a set period of time.
* Time will pass as you engage in free battles: you can also spend gella in the "Search" menu to force time to pass.
* Units that are out on search cannot take part in battles, and they do not earn EXP or CSP from free battles.
* You cannot enter areas marked by story event icons while units are out on search.
* You can discontinue a search early and call your units back at any time, but this will eliminate any chance of them retrieving items for you.
[When you leave Poliasha, the location Rusty Docks will appear with a red ! on it. Entering will take you to the Tactical Map.]
=D.E.R.=
Labyrinthia: Let's take a look at the Tactical Map we'll be fighting on.
Labyrinthia: We'll be starting here.
Labyrinthia: In quests when you have your choice of party size and makeup, your starting point will be displayed by colored HEXes like these.
Use the "View Map" command to see where your units will begin the battle. It's a good idea to check this every time you set off for the battlefield.
Labyrinthia: The enemy line looks like this.
Labyrinthia: Our mission here is to defeat the Jelly Blobs... those "mush bugs" Ellen told us about.
Labyrinthia: Jelly Blobs are known for their high resistance to all forms of physical attack.
Labyrinthia: The Blobs are weak against magic, however, so an Elementalist-centric party would be the wisest plan of action...
Labyrinthia: However, magic attacks will have little effect in the water, so the first order of business is to get the monsters on solid land.
Labyrinthia: Note these lanterns floating in the water. Jelly Blobs detest fire; if we can light up all of the lanterns, I imagine that would make them flee for land.
Labyrinthia: That's when the real battle will begin.
Labyrinthia: USe a fire-based skill on the lanterns to light them up. You can also use a water-based skill on them if you want to put them out.
Labyrinthia: We'll want to be careful about those Gremalkins over there, though...
Labyrinthia: Gremalkins work the opposite way from Jelly Blobs. Magic attacks are mostly ineffective against them.
Labyrinthia: It'll be important to strike a balance in your party between anti-Blob units and anti-Gremalkin units.
Labyrinthia: Use the class-changing abilities of ARMs to create the most effective party possible.
[The battle ends when all the enemies have been defeated. Back on the world map, Poliasha is marked with a yellow !.]
-Poliasha-
[Clarissa stands before Labyrinthia and Felius, giving them a serious look.]
Clarissa: I've given it some thought, and...well, I think I'd like to continue playing the role of the princess for a little while longer.
[Felius frowns and Labyrinthia's mouth widens in surprise.]
Felius: --!
Labyrinthia: Huh?!
Clarissa: This isn't me being my usual reckless self. I really did think this through before deciding.
Felius: May I ask why?
Clarissa: I don't intend to continue playing the part of the princess forever. If anything, it's the opposite.
Clarissa: I have to break free of this lie as soon as possible.
The only way to do so is to return this country to the true royal family.
Labyrinthia: You mean His Majesty, King Hrathnir?
Clarissa: Yeah.
Clarissa: I just need to free the king from the influence of the Council and then explain the situation to him. Then we can return the country to its rightful rule.
Felius: ...
Felius: If we're going to clash with the Counil, then we'll probably run into Rupert along the way. But, Clarissa...
Clarissa: I know. This means I'll have to bear an even heavier burden...
Clarissa: But I want to do this. I want to lead the people of Elesius back to the peaceful lives they once knew.
[Felius closes his eyes.]
Felius: If that's your decision, then I will accompany you.
[Clarissa smiles.]
Clarissa: ...Thank you, Felius.
[Labyrinthia brings her hand to her chin in thought.]
Labyrinthia: In that case, I've got an idea that might help. We need to report back in any case, so why don't we discuss it further at Ellen's place?
[Clarissa's smile becomes nervous.]
Clarissa: Sure, that's fine, but...what sort of idea? That makes me a little nervous...
[Labyrinthia smiles broadly.]
Labyrinthia: Oh, it's no big deal. Just a little way to speed your transformation along. That's all, really.
(Inn)
[Clarissa is now dressed in regal blue clothes with a cape.]
Clarissa: These clothes are so frilly it feels so weird...
Innkeeper Ellen: Wow, how's that sayin' go? "Fine feathers make fine fowl"? Dressed like that, you really do look like honest-to-goodness royalty!
Innkeeper Ellen: You sure you're not really a princess or somethin' from somewhere else?
Innkeeper Ellen: It's not just the clothes, y'know. I can sense a vague air of nobility about you, too.
Clarissa: Well, please don't! I don't have any of that!
[Labyrinthia puts her hands on her hips and puffs out her chest, one eye closed as if winking.]
Labyrinthia: I explained the situation to the people of Poliasha, and they took care of everything, from producing the fabric to sewing the garments.
Labyrinthia: Now no one could possibly doubt that you truly are Alexia Lynn Elesius, Princess Royal of the Kingdom of Elesius.
Clarissa: You don't think we're overdoing it a bit?
Labyrinthia: Not at all. This is perfect.
Labyrinthia: Just the sort of plan you'd expect from a capable woman like me! ...Ahem.
[Clarissa puts her fists on her hips and pouts.]
Clarissa: Oh, you're all just loving this, aren't you? Go ahead, laugh it up! Have your fun!
[Tony comes in between them and yawns.]
Brandon: Bwaaaaahhhhh!!!
[Everyone tenses up.]
Felius: --!
Labyrinthia: What's going on out there?
Fellman: There's a messenger! From...from the Council of Elder Statesmen!
Clarissa: ...The Council...
[Clarissa and Felius run outside and run into a blue-robed man.]
Clarissa: Felius...
Felius: Yes... This certainly confirms our suspicion that Rupert is involved with the Council.
Robed Man: ...
Robed Man: I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own two eyes... I am so please to see that you truly are alived, Your Highness.
Clarissa: ...
Robed Man: However, I hope Your Highness understands that this nation has undergone many changes during your absence.
Clarissa: And you think that's an excuse for the horrors the Council has put my people through?!
Robed Man: Respectfully, Your Highness, I was not send here to fight with you at this time.
[Clarissa untenses a little, but still keeps a serious look.]
Robed Man: If it please Your Highness, I was asked merely to relay the wishes of Council Chairman Charlton Blunt.
Robed Man: The honorable Chairman seeks only what is best for the national interests of Elesius. He hopes to resolve this matter in as peaceful a manner as possible.
Clarissa: --?!
[The screen fades to black and the player is prompted to save.]