Bram
Hey, come on in!
If you need weapons then I'm your man!
Carmel
Welcome!
Why don't you come a little closer, sweet thing?
I've got some lovely new armor to help you keep safe...
Daniel
Welcome!
I'm just minding the shop for a while.
Don't worry!
I'm allowed to sell stuff!
Gad
Ah, there you are...
We've got a busy day ahead!
I want to see some fast deliveries, you hear me?
Gad
Hey, Jian...
Aren't you with Lucia?

You'd better get out there and find her, then!
I'll bet she's looking for you because what's one team member without the other?
Come back once you've found her.
Gad
We've got some bother, sorry to say.
Apparently there's a problem in Thieves' Woods.
I don't know the details, but if we can't get through... It means no work for us for a while.
Gad
Hey!
I've been waiting for you!
We've got a pile of jobs here needing your attention!
That means its time for you to start working, lad!
Gad
Jian, lad...
Are you sure you want to work, at a time like this?
Just don't push yourself too hard...
Jacob
It's feeding time!

Oh, it's you.
So, where's Lucia?
Jacob
It's feeding...

Oh, just you guys, huh.
Slacking off work again, are we?
Or did you actually come to eat something this time?
Jacob
It's feeding...

Oh, Jian...
OK, well, you see... I mean... Just try to buck up, OK?
Jacob
It's feeding time!

I hear you're off to save Lucia!
Yes... I would expect no less from you, Jian!
You go and do your very best, OK?
Adah
Wait a moment, are you... human?

What a lovely trip to the sticks this is turning into!
Eating alongside a human?!
One of my worst nightmares come true!
I cannot take much more of this!
Adah
Huh...
It is this obtrusive nature of all humans that has purchased the anger of King Zethos.
Adah
What?
Going to the Frontier?
Hah! Funny! A measly human?!
I shall have to remember that one!
Adah
Hey, you... I hear you fought with Ignatius?
That is quite impressive, I must admit.
I might have been too hasty in judging you.
Adah
Jian, right?
I think you've won me over.
Fight on, then!
For yours is the dream that all wish to see fulfilled!
Malachi
I come from Healriz.

But excuse me...
That could not possibly interest you.
My apologies...
Forget that I said anything.
Malachi
Healriz is an amazing place!
I could never be wrong now, could I? Not me!
But I don't think you'd quite get it.
Malachi
You guys... I hear you had a little fun over in Healriz.
Met with the anger of King Zethos and all that, yeah?
Poor fools... Take a good look at yourselves.
You're obviously not as strong as you thought.
Malachi
You lot, going to the Frontier?
Hardly the best spot for a picnic, now is it?
Change your plans, that's my advice.
Malachi
Well now... I've heard all about it.
Nasty business.
Keep up with the brave face, OK?
Malachi
Hey, Jian...
Now I hear you want to become a Dragonmaster!
Yeah, well, I'm sure you can do it!
I'm backing you all the way!
Cherenkov
Ah, Jian.
Finally, you grace us with your presence.

I wish I could afford to oversleep every day!
And if you're looking for Lucia, she already left.
Cherenkov
Impressive!
You know where to go!
Cherenkov
Jian, just what're you playing at?
Get over to the Fountain Square, on the double!
Lucia will be thinking you've stood her up!
Cherenkov
Hey, Jian!
At least wipe your shoes, OK?
Someone has to clean that mud up!
Cherenkov
Good to see you up, Jian.
How is that injury doing?

You still have your health, at least.
But this is quite a mess!

Try and keep your head up, understand?
Cherenkov
Ah, Jian!
I've heard the talk.
Who hasn't?!
Off to save Lucia! Impressive! But then I would expect no less from you!

Oh, and one other thing...
Don't you worry about your room.
I'll keep it free until you get back.

So go do what you have to!
Caren
Oh, what's this?
Jian, all alone?

Jian
Yeah... I'm looking for Lucia, actually.
Caren
Oh really?
Well then...

How about spending a little time with me instead?

Jian
Sorry, Caren, not right now!
Maybe next time?
Caren
Oh Jian...!
You're such a tease!
Caren
Say, Jian...
How about taking me along today?

Jian
Sorry, Caren, not today.
One partner is all I need.

Caren
Oh Jian...!
Stop teasing me!
Caren
Jian...
Are you going to be OK, all alone?
If you need my help, I could...?

Jian
..............

Caren
Well, I'm here if you need me... But it doesn't look like you do...
Caren
Say, Jian...
A dragon tamer... that's a Dragonmaster, right?

Jian
That's what I've heard, yes... And I desperately need that power to save Lucia!
Timothy
Tricky...!
But I'm only a step away!
This is a tough one.
Very hard!
Timothy
Ah, Jian!
What impeccable timing!
I have just finished my latest invention!

Jian
You never give up, do you?
So, what is it this time?

Timothy
Brace yourself... I mean it!
Are you ready for this?
Ready?!

I present... sky soaring shoes!

Jian
.........

Well, great...
See you around Timothy!
Timothy
What does that mean?
Don't you want to try them?
To fly?!
Timothy
Come on...
My latest invention!
Timothy
Jian, cheer up!
My inventions will help you to save Lucia, you'll see!
Timothy
Drum roll please... Ta~daaaaa!

Finally, they're finished!
The new and improved sky soaring shoes...
And they're called...
Jump Shoes!!

Jian
Jump Shoes??

Timothy
That's right!
With these, you can pounce on enemies from the sky!
Well, what do you think?
Pretty cool, huh?

Jian
Jump Shoes, eh...
You seem confident, Timothy, I'll say that.
Very well then! Thank you!
Timothy
Jian, cheer up!
I'm telling you, my inventions can help you save Lucia!
Timothy
Tricky...!
This is harder to figure out than any invention!
How to save Lucia... how?!
Jian
....It's morning...?

A good night's sleep, anyway!
Huh?
Lucia's already left, has she?
My name is Jian Campbell.
I've worked for Gad's Express as a courier for a while now, and recently I teamed up with this girl named Lucia Collins.
We both love excitement and adventure.
Working as couriers can sometimes land us in risky situations....
But that's all part of the fun!
I love acrobatics and standing on my head, and I do have quite a soft spot for Lucia... maybe!
Jian
Right then!
I'd better go looking for Lucia.
She's always angry when I oversleep!
Adina
I'm from Perit Village.

What's that?
You don't know Perit Village?!

It's far to the northwest from here.
Adina
What?
Trouble in Thieves' Woods...?! No! I'm too scared to hear any more!
Guess I won't be going home to Perit Village for a while.
Adina
Hey, have you heard the news?
They say that the Beast King himself is going to pay a visit to the Healriz Coliseum!
Adina
Just a moment...!

That girl with you...
Isn't she a beast girl?
Why is she with you, then?

Gabryel
I can hear you, you know!
And why shouldn't I be with them, anyway?!
Adina
The Frontier...
Isn't that where those who hate and oppose the Goddess Althena live?
Why would you want to go there?
Adina
Hey...
What do you know about the Barrel Desert?
I heard you can see ant lions there!
Adina
The Four Dragons... I know this one!
That would be the Red Dragon, White Dragon, Black Dragon and Blue Dragon, right?
Hiram
I wouldn't go to Healriz, OK?
No warm welcome for humans there!
Those beast folk like to keep to themselves.
Hiram
OK, listen up.
Stay away from Healriz, you hear?
Messing with beast folk brings trouble!
Hiram
What did I tell you? Huh?
Stay away from Healriz! Right? Clean your ears out next time!
Hiram
OK, pay attention this time.
Stay away from the Frontier!
There's dangerous folk behind every rock out there!
Hiram
Hey, cheer up, OK?
You just picked a fight with the wrong guy.
It's not your fault, Jian, not at all!
Hiram
You're quite something, Jian!
You always ignore my advice, you always come back alive, and now you're off to rescue Lucia!
Well, I'm behind you all the way!
Ikey
Hey Jian!
More deliveries today?
You two sure work hard!
Ikey
You want to go travel over to the Wrickcontinent ?
You could always take the Ferryboat.
Try asking Hyman about it.
Ikey
You want to go to the Frontier?
Now that's a tricky one...

Do something against the teachings of the Goddess Althena and you might get sent there...
But that is not really a good idea, is it?
Ikey
Life is full of ups and downs, isn't it?
Be sure to rest well before you do anything else.
Ikey
Jian...
Your recklessness is your biggest flaw.
If you really want to save Lucia, you need to grow up a little first. Model yourself on me, maybe?!
Isabella
Jian, what a surprise.
Where is pretty young Lucia today, then?
Isabella
You really are something, Jian.
So young, and yet shouldering such responsibility!
What with having to look after Lucia and all...

Lucia
Please, Isabella, enough of such talk.
I'm no trouble to Jian, I promise.
You make it sound as if...
Well, as if I were a child!
Isabella
You're too much for my old bones!
The Wrick continent?!
That could be quite a long journey... You had better prepare carefully.
Isabella
You're too much for my old bones!
Off to the Frontier, is it?!
Well, this is all beyond me.
You just take care, now.
Wrap up warm!
Isabella
Ah, Jian!
I want a word with you!
You are quite something, really!
Failing to keep such a pretty girl safe!

Jian
...........

Isabella
Quite something, indeed...
Do you even have a brain in that massive body? Eh?
Isabella
Oh, well, how lovely!
You're looking quite splendid, Jian!
Even dashing, I might say, all of a sudden!

So then...
Bring that pretty young Lucia back safe!
I'm sure she's waiting for you!
Jack
What are you doing here, of all places?
I just saw Lucia in Fountain Square.
I thought she was waiting for you...?
Jack
Lucia?
Sorry, I haven't seen her.
I'm off to Fountain Square.
Sorry I can't help!
Try asking Cherenkov, maybe?
Jack
I just got back from Thieves' Woods.
Although I almost didn't make it, to be honest!
That forest is like a maze.
Someone should make a path!
Jack
Hey there, big man!

I heard all about it, Jian!
You, fighting it out in the San Coliseum?!
And you did very well, too!

Hey....?
Why are you so upset, then?
Was it something I said?
Jack
Just between us, OK...
Tell me, is it true that the Cathedral of Althena was attacked by a Vile Tribe?

That's harsh...
Could we be in danger here, too?!

Lucia
I hope not, with all my heart.
Jack
Just between us, OK...
Is it true that Lucia has been kidnapped?

Gabryel
Hey, Jack!
Show a little tact, please!
Now is not the time.
Jack
What are you doing here?
I just saw Lucia in Fountain Square.
I thought she was waiting for you...?

Gabryel
Hey, Jack, cut that out!

Jack
Ah...?
Not that funny, I guess.
My most humble apologies!
Lila
Oh, I wonder what it is today!

Oh... sorry.
You're not here on a delivery, then?
Ah, well then, my apologies.
Lila
I'm very disappointed in my boyfriend!

He went and got lost in Thieves' Woods.
He'll never make it through Roland Forest like that!
Never!
Lila
Oh, how lovely!
I see you have a new friend!

Gabryel
I'm Gabryel! Nice to meet you!

Lila
Likewise, likewise...
Well then, can I ask you to deliver something for me?

Gabryel
Oh, I'm sorry... I'm not a courier like these two. Please take your business to Gad's Express!
Lila
I've heard of this place, Lind Village out in the Frontier.
A Vile Tribe village.
I wonder what the people are like there?
Lila
I'm very disappointed in my boyfriend!

He wants to move out into the sticks, just because a Vile Tribe might attack!
Well, he might not be my boyfriend much longer!
Lila
Over in Goolien.... I've heard of places called Noapeace and Rebric Village.
I wonder what it's like there?
Jose
I don't like this... I must say, I don't like this one bit!

The world, controlled by beastmen?
Beasts and beasts alone... No! I don't think I can stand it!
Joseph
Carefully, carefully...
Don't be rude to the master now!
Hyman
Ahoy there, Jian.
You outta luck, the Ferryboat just left.
Sorry, you're just gonna have to wait a while.
Hyman
Ahoy there, Jian!
Good timing, good timing!
The Ferryboat is just about to set sail!
Go on then, you'd better get on board!
Hyman
If you want to take the Ferryboat, get going!
Its about time for it to set sail.
Go on then, go! Go!
Jian
Hey...

This is Lucia's parasol.
What's it doing here?

But if she left this behind... I guess she can't have gone far.
I'll just wait here, then!
Jian
Come on...
Lucia
Oh, Jian, honestly...
Will you ever be able to wake up at a reasonable time?

Jian
Sorry...

Lucia
I told you yesterday, didn't I?
We have to take this package to Perit Village today, remember?

Jian
Of course I remember...
No need to get so worked up about it!
Your cute face will get all wrinkled if you don't watch out.

Lucia
Jian...!
Compliments only work for 30 minutes waiting!
I've been here for 3 hours.
If we don't get going soon, we won't make it back before sunset!

Jian
Ah, of course.
You don't like being outside at night, do you?

Lucia
I think that's perfectly reasonable!

Anyway, forget that for now... We had better get over to Gad's Express and pick up that package!
We must not delay this delivery any longer!

Jian
Just calm down, Lucia.
Take a deep breath.
Seriously, you really do worry too much!
That package isn't going to up and run off!

Lucia
Enough talk, already!
Especially if you have nothing nice to say.
Come on, let's go!
Gad
Hey, lad, late again as usual, huh?
Well, here you go...
Your next job.
Get right on it!

Jian
...

Gad
What's with the long face, eh? Its not like Lucia is dead or something now is it!
So long as you are both alive, you'll meet again.
Come on, buck up lad!

Jian
...

Gabryel
Gad, please, don't....

Jian
No, Gabi, the boss is right...

Gad
Oh, that reminds me!
I'd better hand this over, before I forget.

Jian
What's this?

Gad
Its for you... from Lucia.

Jian
...from Lucia...?

Gad
Yeah, to be delivered to you today.
When was it...

Ah, of course. That day you overslept and were searching the whole place for her?
Well, she left this here with me then.

Gabryel
But what's so special about today?

Jian
Now I remember!
Today is the day we first met! So... it must be a gift to celebrate!
Gad
Well great, lad!
This is a bit of good news, right?
So here you go, then, take it!

Jian
No... I can't.
I don't deserve it.
I failed to protect her, Gad!
I'm not worthy of her gifts...
Gad
So that's how it is, is it?
Yes, well, I am sure Lucia wouldn't want some moping sob-face having this either!
I'll just toss it out, then.

Gabryel
Hey, wait!
Gad, what are you doing?!
You can't just open Jian's present like that!
Gad, listen!

Gad
He doesn't care!
It's destined for the trash anyway, so may as well take a look first!

Gabryel
Oh...
Oh wow...!

Gad
Well, well, this is quite a pretty something!
It would certainly have suited you, Jian. Shame.

Jian
Lucia...!

Gabryel
Wait! Just wait a moment!
You still don't get it?
Just wanting to save her, however much, isn't going to get this job done, OK?

Jian
Gabi...

Gabryel
Jian, I know what you are feeling... it hurts so much, I know.

But calm down for a moment!
Think!
There could be a hundred of us, an army, and we could still never defeat Ignatius!

Jian
But I can't just forget about her, Gabi...!

Gabryel
Well, I do have one idea...
Let's try asking my father.
He might be able to help us.

Jian
The Beast King Zethos...?
Well, it's better than just moping around here, that's for sure!
OK, Gabi! Let's go!
Gabryel
Hold on a moment! Jian!
Wait! What about work?
Jian!!
Gad
Depressed one minute, hyper the next... Sounds like you might be seriously ill.
I think you'd better take some time off...
Gabryel
Hey, Jian...
We've got a request for a delivery to Perit Village.
What do you think?
You up to it?

Jian
Gabi, I'm still not sure...

Gabryel
Get down off the fence!
I want a decision! Yes or no?!

Jian
OK, OK, let's do it.
An easy enough job.
I should feel better if I work a little, too...
Gabryel
Good, that's a little more like it.
Get ready to head out, then!
Jian
A delivery to Perit Village... That's what started all this off in the first place.
Gabi, is the delivery a package by any chance?

Gabryel
Oh Jian, come on!
This is textbook stuff!
You know that couriers must never examine the delivery, never ask any questions of the client and resist any personal interest in the packages!
Jian
Yes...
You're right, Gabi, of course.

Gabryel
Are you sure you didn't injure your head, too?
Pull yourself together, Jian!
Now, let's go and pick up that delivery!
Lucia
Announcing a grand tournament! All confident, powerful fighters, unafraid of death, should hurry to Healriz for this chance to prove their worth!

Well, it sounds... masculine.

Jian
A tournament...? Interesting.
Lucia
Hey look... Chef required!
Probably not for me, though.
I'm only really good at making burnt food.
Jian
Chef required, huh... I don't think that's for me.
Jian
So what does Cherenkov read, I wonder...?
'Beginners Guide to Bed and Breakfast'...
'A Clean Hotel is a Profitable Hotel'... yeah, makes sense.
Caren
Oh Jian...!
You shouldn't tease a girl so!
Caren
What now!
Stop teasing me, Jian!
Caren
Jian...
Cheer up, for me, OK?
Caren
Jian...
Hang in there, tough guy!
Jian
Oh wow! Caren is a really great cook, you know?
Nothing like your famous 'Charcoal Surprise', Lucia.
I bet you'd like to cook as well as she does, right?
Jian
Hey...
How'd you like those apples?
Probably best not to take any, though...
Jian
Just as I thought...
Even the titles of these books mean nothing to me!
That Timothy is one smart guy...
Jian
This is the umbrella Lucia was using when we first met.
It only seems like yesterday.
But it's been over a year already...
Jian
Just a minute...
Those flowers...
Yeah, those are the ones Lucia really likes.
I wonder... could I take one?
Lucia
Oh wow!
How pretty!
My favorite flower!
Lucia
Hey, Jian...
Don't you think fireplaces are wonderful?
They're so romantic.
Jian
A fireplace, huh...
Yeah, I kinda wish I had one in my room.
Jose
Hold up a minute...
That girl there... she's a beast, right?
What's she doing with you, then?

This troubles me, it does!
Most unsettling, unsettling indeed.
Jose
I see, I see...
Those beasts have got it pretty bad too, huh.
This might mean, I mean exactly what it means is...

That it might... if you get my meaning...
Be that beastmen and humans have to, well...
Work together? Perhaps?
Jose
Tell me, sonny...
Do you know the phrase 'An eye for an eye?'

If someone hits you, you hit him back, you see?
And then you take your eye back... and take his...?
Something like that, anyway.
Jose
I don't like this... I must say, I don't like this one bit!

The world, controlled by the Vile Tribe?
The Vile Tribe, and the Vile Tribe alone... No!
I don't think I can stand it!
Lucia
Jian, stop that...
You can't just read someone else's diary!
Jian
'Dragonmaster Jose'...
Just what is this?
A diary?
Looks more like a novel...
Joseph
The master has been recording your exploits in his diary, every day without fail.
The day shall surely come when your story is considered a shining example of the bravery and valor of man and beast.

I'm sure people thousands of years from now will know of it!
Bram
Hey, come...

What's that? A package for me? Well, if you need a signature then I'm your man!
Thanks for that!
Carmel
Welcome!

What's that, sweet thing?
Oh wow! A package for me?
I've been waiting for this!
I just need to sign here, right?
Thanks a lot, cherry pie!
Daniel
Welcome!

What? A package?
I'm just minding the shop...
Don't worry!
I can sign for stuff!
There you go!
Well, keep up the good work!
Jacob
It's feeding time!

Hey! Whatcha got there?
A package for me, huh. Thanks! Mustn't forget to sign for it, must I?
Well, good job. See you again!
Cherenkov
Hey, Jian!
Oh, is that package for me?
Sorry to put you to such trouble...

Right, so I just sign here...
And there you go!
Thanks again!

Just one other thing... I didn't ask for a delivery of mud, you know.
Wipe those shoes next time!
Caren
Oh, what's this?
Jian, what are you doing here? Perhaps...?

What? A package?
That's all, is it...

Well, thank you.
I've signed for it.
Timothy
Ah, Jian!

A package! Excellent!
But I've got me hands full at the moment...
Sorry, just leave it there, will you?
Eh? A signature?

Just a moment then!
There, is that OK now?
Right, back to inventing!
Isabella
Now then, what is all this?
A package? Oh, gracious me!

You've impressed me again!
You've got your head on straight.
There you are then, dear.
My thanks.
Jack
Hey! A package for me!
That's cool!
Who could it be from?
Well, thanks a lot!
Jose
What?!
A package for me?!

Well, I guess I'll have it, then...
But hold on a moment...
It's pretty light, isn't it?
Hagar
There's danger up ahead!
Huge rocks have been scattered everywhere.
Who would do such a thing?
Who could?!
Hagar
I've finally managed to move those rocks!
Hope I haven't put my back out again.
Now, I just need to fix the bridge...
Hagar
The bridge is coming along nicely.
Just hope my back holds out!
It'll be done soon enough, anyway.
Micah
Nothing doing here...
This road is impassible for the moment.
We need someone to move those rocks!
Micah
Troubles come in threes, they say...
And here's the second!
The rocks are gone, but the bridge to Healriz is out!
Micah
Hold on a moment there...
You planning on going to Healriz, by any chance?
Well, you'd better not!
They don't exactly welcome humans.
Lucia
No!

Jian
...!?
Jian
Oh no!

This is bad!
Our package for delivery has been stolen!

Lucia
Its worse than bad!
Jian, what should we do?
If Gad finds out about this...

Our careers are finished!

Jian
...Fired, for sure.

Lucia
How can you be so calm?
Get with it, Jian!
If we don't get that package back...

Jian
I'm with it, I'm with it!
OK, so, we can't go back to Port Searis.
Then let's try Perit Village.
Ask around, see what we can learn.

Lucia
Yeah, that sounds good...

But... one thing...
We can't let anyone know what has happened!
If this gets out, our reputations are finished!

Jian
Yes, yes, I know.
You really do worry too much, you know!
Guide
West - Delrich Temple, Healriz
South - Port Searis
East - Perit Village
Guide
West - Perit Village
South - Port Searis
East - White Dragon Cave
Guide
North - Delrich Temple
Guide
West - Healriz
Guide
West - Delrich Temple
South - Healriz
East - Perit Village, Port Searis
Abel
Welcome!
Are you after anything in particular?
Well, take your pick!
All good stuff here!
Dina
Huh!
Let me tell you about my shop! It's a step up from those other places you've seen.
Got it?
You come to me when you want the best!
Jake
Welcome...
Preparation is everything, as they say.
Are you ready for anything?
Lilith
Sorry about all this...
With the trouble in Thieves' Woods, there's no work for you at the moment.
Lilith
Well, do I have you to thank for this?
We can start work again, anyway! We've got quite a backlog to see to!
Lilith
Oh, there you are.
Hard little workers, aren't you?
Well, I've got plenty to keep you busy!
Lilith
Sounds like you've been having a rough time...
Don't stress about work too much, for the moment. Just get back on your feet first.
Lilith
My apologies, at a time like this...
No need to push yourself too hard. Just take your time, take your time.
Moses
Hey there...
Did you come though Thieves' Woods, by any chance?

Lucia
We did, actually...
Why do you ask?

Moses
Well...
Odd things have been happening there recently.

Jian
Odd things...?
Actually, just now, we did....

Lucia
Jian?! Yes! Right! We did!
We did... make it safely through!

Moses
Well, that's good to hear.
You're quite a... lively girl, aren't you?

Lucia
I shall take that as a compliment.

Moses
As it was intended, I assure you.
If you want to know more, anyway, ask the village head.
He lives in the biggest house in the village.
Moses
Things are not improving...
Better stay out of Thieves' Woods for a while.
Moses
That's too bad...
Can't do anything if the bridge is out.
But you can still get to Delrich Temple, right?
Well, take care, then!
Moses
What's that?
You defeated the Sasquatch?
Jokes are funnier if you at least try to be convincing!
Moses
Finally, it's safe to pass through Thieves' Woods.
Now I can go shopping in Healriz again!
All's well that ends well, indeed.
Mae
They say that the trouble in Thieves' Woods is... the work of a giant's curse!

The legendary giant has awoken! Oh my!
Spewing fire, red eyes aflame...
He's coming to eat us all.
I know it!
Mae
What?
A Sasquatch is behind it all?
Well, if you say so... I still prefer the legendary giant theory.
Mae
Did you really defeat that Sasquatch?
So now it's safe to go into Thieves' Woods again?
Mae
Do you look up at the sky much, I wonder?
I love to gaze up at that shining blue star...
And dream about the people who live there.
Simon
Stay away from the White Dragon Cave!
Plenty of other places to play.
That cave is a sacred place, after all.
Simon
Are you the ones...
Who offered their help to Enos, by any chance?
Help worth accepting, from the look of you.
Simon
Please, don't say anything...
Just take it! Here!
Simon
You lot...
Well, among the youth of today, you show real promise!
I'm expecting great things from you!
Simon
Oh, this is fine indeed!
You did it! You really did.
Impressive, for youngsters, impressive!
Simon
I know! I understand!
Right now, you're standing on the verge of doing something great! Something massive!
Something so big that the very world will change!

I can see it.
I can understand it, I can.
Oh yes, Jian. I can.
Hester
What a terrible place the world is becoming!
It isn't even safe to go into the fields to work...
But those fields won't hoe themselves!
What is one to do, I wonder?
Hester
If it gets dangerous out there... You come a runnin' right back here!
Don't go throwing your young life away.
You hear me, sonny?
Hester
I'm just glad to see you back safe.
Hester
That creature had it coming, playing havoc at Delrich Temple and all.
Got what it deserved, thanks to you!
Hanna
I'm in a spot of bother, actually...
It's all thanks to this.... incident in Thieves' Woods, you see...
Hanna
Now it isn't even safe to go shopping!
Hanna
That Sasquatch is a wild one, mark my word!
If you fight him, be careful!
Hanna
Here you are, back safe and sound!
Go and see Enos then, quickly!
Hanna
What lives in the White Dragon Cave?
A White Dragon, of course!
But then again, I've never seen it.
That's just what folks around here have always said.
Ezra
Hagar and Micah went off to check out the trouble in Thieves' Woods.
I hope it's nothing serious...
Ezra
Oh dear!
This is troubling, most troubling!
Is there no brave young soul with the gumption to solve this problem? Eh? No?
Ezra
Speak up lad! What?
You'll go to Delrich Temple?
Well then, what are you waiting for!
Go give that Sasquatch one for me!
Ezra
Enos is waiting for you.
Go on up.
Ezra
To get to the White Dragon Cave, leave the village and head east.
After that, just follow the signs!
Enos
My apologies, but I do not have time to talk with visitors now!
Oh, this is a mess, a real mess!
Enos
I know the culprit, of course! This is the work of that Sasquatch!

Lucia
...Sasquatch?

Enos
Oh yes!
A fearsome monster, currently making Delrich Temple its home.

Lucia
...Delrich Temple??

Enos
That's right...
Once a place of worship of the Four Dragons.

Jian
...Four Dragons?

Enos
You don't know much, do you?!

Cool White in the north
Deep Blue for the south
Flame Red in the east
and night Black for the west!

Lucia
...I see.

Enos
As the temple is hardly used nowadays, that Sasquatch had taken it for its nest.

Jian
And it's the one causing all the recent trouble?
Enos
The very same!
And it's causing me no lack of sleepless nights!
In fact... Well...

But no, I could never ask such a thing...

Lucia
Oh, you can't just say that and then stop!
Please, go on. Don't leave us hanging like this!

Enos
Ah... maybe...
But, no, no, I could never...

Jian
Very well then!
We shall defeat this monster for you!

Enos
But... that is exactly what I was going to...

How ever did you know?

Jian
It was obviously going to happen. I was just speeding the process up a bit.

Enos
Ah, well, very well then.
Hagar and Micah should have moved the rocks in the Thieves' Woods by now.
The way to Delrich Temple should be open.

Jian
Then we will head straight over there.
Enos
Just a final word of warning...
Please, take due care in this matter!

Those rocks were placed there by the Sasquatch, so he is obviously extremely strong!
I want to see you come back alive, understood?

Lucia
Understood.

Enos
Then I send my hopes with you!
Enos
Delrich Temple is a complex place...
Be careful not to get lost!
Enos
I have no idea how to thank you, really I don't!
You have done a fine thing today, truly fine.

Lucia
I don't think you have to worry about any more Sasquatch antics in Thieves' Woods.

Enos
Yes... well, I hope you are right!
We could hardly take another day of this!
Ah, and one other thing...

Apparently the repairs to the bridge are finished.
Thieves' Woods is back to normal, at last.

That gives you somewhere else to visit, too!
The way to Healriz is open again.

Jian
Healriz... I've heard the name...

Enos
Yes, the beast town!
I know there is no stopping you, so I won't try.
But you are unlikely to get a warm welcome.
Still going to pay them a visit?

Jian
Oh yes! Of course!

Enos
You're a lively one, that's for sure!
Just what I expected!
Now, for a parting gift.
Please, take this.
Enos
Maybe... just maybe...
You might meet with the Beast King, Zethos.
That would be quite a tale to tell!
Enos
Oh, Jian, good to see you!

But whatever is the matter?
You do look most depressed...
Simon
Keep away from Thieves' Woods! If you value your life, that is.
Hester
Well, this is a first...
Even working the fields like this doesn't make me feel any better!
Beulah
Listen to this, will you...
Or maybe you've already heard?
About the giant in Thieves' Woods?
Beulah
Well, this giant...
They say he steals things!
Whatever he can!
You better keep your wits about you.
Beulah
Listen to this, will you...
That gossip about a giant...
Turns out it was a Sasquatch, they say now!
Or maybe you've already heard.
Beulah
Listen to this, will you...
The Vile Tribe has been expanding their influence!
Or maybe you didn't want to hear about that?
Beulah
By the way, this Vile Tribe... Just who exactly are they?
Has anyone heard? Anyone know?
Abednego
Excuse me...?
Did you say something, dearie?
Abednego
Oh, you just have to listen to this.
This is prime gossip, I can tell you...
Ah, now, what was it again...?
Abednego
Sasquatch... I don't remember...
Is that tasty?
Debora
You've come from Port Searis?
I'm glad you made it here safely, then!
There's been trouble in Thieves' Woods of late.
Seems like there is actually a thief in there!
Debora
Don't tell me...
Did something happen to you, too?

Jian
...I'm not allowed to comment.
Debora
Well, this is big news!
Turns out that the thief is a monster, a monster called Sasquatch.
Debora
Hey, do you know this one?
An odd rumor about Goddess Althena.

Jian
What kind of rumor?

Debora
Well, they say that, actually, Goddess Althena has been absent for who-knows-how-many years!
In other words... Gone!
Vanished! No more?!
Debora
Without Goddess Althena...
What's going to happen to the world?!
Oh, I'm too scared to even think about it!
Moses
Hey, are you OK?
You look kinda upset about something?
Moses
You guys really are something! I'm proud to be able to call you friends!

Flora
Friends?
Who's friends? Anyone we know?
Jian
The world certainly is big...
The Caldor continent is starting to feel quite small!
Simon
I knew it, I did!
That you would decide to become a Dragonmaster...
And I know you will succeed, too!
I know you can do it, Jian...
Lucia
Look at that!
What a pretty lamp!

Jian
It burns with oil from a plant called the Goatweed.

Lucia
Really?
You sure do know a lot, don't you Jian!
Jian
This is a pretty old fashioned lamp...
Still relying on plant oil in this day and age?
Hanna
Impressive.. I thought you were out of control, but...
You're actually really good kids.
Lucia
Oh, what beautiful flowers!
I wonder what they're called?
Jian
You really love flowers, don't you Lucia...
Ezra
Ah, you want to know about the Ghulian continent?
Well, I hear there is a pretty odd guy living in Tower of Kirlis.
They say he collects things from across the world.
Ezra
Speak up, lad! What?
You can fly now, can you?
Well, that's grand, I'm sure.
Enos
You're crazy!

You plan to take the Vile Tribe on?
But still...
There's nothing an old guy like me could say to change your minds now, is there?
Enos
Jian...

So long as we have you, there is hope!
Hope for all of us who believe in the future!
We're still counting on you, lad!
Jian
That's one impressive suit of armor...
Although it doesn't look like it's been worn recently.
Lucia
I guess they're not using this well any more?
It's totally dry.
Jian
Looks like it hasn't been used recently...
Abel
Welcome!
Hey, a package! Great!
I sign right here, yeah?
Thanks then, as always!
Dina
A package for me, is it?
I bet that's the best package you've ever delivered!
Well, thanks a lot!
Here's the bit you want.
Jake
Welc...
Ah, a delivery, is it?
I wonder who it could be from? I'd better prepare to open it!
Moses
What's this?
A package for me!
Well, what can I say.
Looking good... I have my admirers!

Wait a second...
This is the package I sent to her...!
Does this mean... I've been dumped?!
Enos
What?
A package for me?

Let's take a look, then...
Yes, it all looks in order.
Take this for your trouble!

It's only a signed receipt, of course!
Expecting something else?
Alvera
Now here's a sight!
Certainly not something we see every day, humans coming to pay our town a visit!
Balbo
What's this? Humans?
You the ones working for Sandro, are you?
Well, I ain't got nothing for the likes of you!
So... see ya.
Cara
Huh...
How weak and... pathetic you look.
You... humans.
Evelina
Oh, what should I do?
They say that the Beast King Zethos may well come to this very town... today!
Of all days!
Oh, the honor!
Gobi
Yer not gonna like this, kid, but... I ain't gonna apologize.
I hate humans!
Which means... Go away.
Juliet
Othello is the Mayor of our town, in name at least.
Leoncavallo is really in charge, you see.
Leoncavallo
Hey, kiddies.
Don't tell me you waltzed in here empty-handed?
Did you know this was my house?
I guess not. So get out.
Leoncavallo
Well, well!
You've got some tasty looking honey there!
Will you give it to me?
Leoncavallo
I do have a sweet tooth.
Hate bees, though!
Thanks for that, anyway!

I guess this means I owe you one...
If I can ever help you kiddies out, let me know.
Don't hold out on me now!
Leoncavallo
Hey, you've got guts, kid.
Impressive, standing up for yourself.
I just hope you don't regret it.
Leoncavallo
Hey, kid, cut the comedy routine.
You get into San Coliseum!?

Well... I guess it's only natural.
Everyone wants to watch the Tournament, right?
OK, I give in.
Here, some tickets...

Jian
Sorry, but...

I don't intend to sit in the stands.
I want to fight...
Fight in the Tournament!

Lucia
Jian? You never told me this!
Just what are you thinking!
You won't stand a chance!

Jian
Hey, don't count me out so easily, Lucia.
I think I've got a shot at it. I want to take part in the Tournament...
No, I must take part!

Leoncavallo
Look, kid...
You might think you're solid as stone, but the hard cases entering the Tournament have come from across the world to be here. Some human kid like you will get eaten alive.

Jian
So, you think a human can't beat a beastman, do you?
Is that your point?!
What's so different about me and you?!

Leoncavallo
.......

Lucia
Jian...

Leoncavallo
So... I'm thinking I'll give you a chance.
Back up your tough talk with some muscle, if you can.

Jian
Oh, I will!
Just what I wanted to hear!

Leoncavallo
There is a cave northwest of Roland Forest.
Within it dwells a violent, rampaging, marauding, fearless beast known as the Armored Boar.

Kid...
If you want to talk big, very well.
But how about saving it until you've taken out an Armored Boar or two, eh?
Leoncavallo
No mere human can defeat the mighty Armored Boar, and especially not some kid like you!
Leoncavallo
I've heard already, though I hardly believe it!
You defeated an Armored Boar.
Amazing!

Jian
That's right.
Me, a mere human... as you might say.

Leoncavallo
You've surprised me, certainly.

But... I still don't understand...
Why'd you want to get into the Tournament so badly?
Blood-crazed opponents hammering each other until one crumples to the dirt.. you won't see violence like that anywhere else!

Jian
.......

Leoncavallo
It could be the end of you, kid.

Jian
Still, I must enter.

If I can display the bravery and strength of a human in front of so many beastmen...
You may rethink your ideas about humans.
We may even come to understand each other!

I think... I know it can work!

Leoncavallo
You're staking your life on it, kid... I don't really understand it.

But I have to say, I've grown to like you.
If you are willing to go that far, well.
So be it! I'll help you out.

Here's what you've been after.

Jian
Could it be...?

Leoncavallo
Yep, a Tournament entry pass.

Jian
But... surely it belongs to someone?

Leoncavallo
You're sharp, kid...
To tell the truth, that one's mine.
So just you watch it...
You'd better not lose, OK?!

Jian
Thank you!
But, are you sure...?

Leoncavallo
Don't take on so, kid!
I couldn't beat you right now anyway!
Look at you, all fired up and all.

Jian
Leoncavallo...

Thank you!
I'll not waste this chance, you'll see!
Time for the beasts to see what a human can do!

Leoncavallo
You're the one to show them, for sure.
Do your best, Jian!
Leoncavallo
Now, go!
The Tournament is about to begin!
Marcella
My darling Leoncavallo!
He's the number one man in this town!
So strong! So cool!
And so, oh so rich, honey!
Your little boyfriend doesn't shape up, does he?

Lucia
Boy... friend...?
Marcella
What does my darling Leoncavallo like?

Easy, honey! Me, of course!
You think there's someone else?
Are you picking a fight with me?!

Lucia
No...I didn't mean a person... Like, food or something like that?
I heard he has a sweet tooth, right?

Marcella
Oh, right... I got all worked up, too!
You're thinking of honey, honey.

Lucia
Honey... honey?

Marcella
Just one honey, honey.
He loves the honey of the Insector that lives in Roland Forest.
What else do you want to know about him, then?
Marcella
Hey there, human girl!
You wouldn't be trying to steal away my man with your honey favors, would you now?
I can cat fight with the best of them, honey! Watch it!
Marcella
You'd better watch what you say... I don't want you going and upsetting my dear darling!
Nita
This town is divided into Western and Eastern regions.
You're in the Eastern region now.

In the Western region, you can enjoy shopping!
Yes, no need to worry!
Even humans are allowed to shop there!
Titus
Hold on a moment...?

You there, human girl!

Lucia
Me...?
I'm sorry, have we met before somewhere?
Titus
Ah... no, it's not that...

Lucia
What they said about not getting a warm welcome here was true!
Why ever is that?
Titus
Now that's an easy question.
This is a beastmen's town.
That simple.

Lucia
If you understand that, why are you living here?

Titus
No beastman will talk to a human unless they have to.
Unless someone twists their arm!
That makes this town great for a quiet life.

Lucia
I see... that makes sense... kinda...
Titus
Anyway, you'd be better off to leave before some trouble finds you, OK?
Othello
Oh, I'm terribly sorry.
I already have one human maid. Please, look for work elsewhere.
Rosa
You came from Port Searis?

I don't know why you are here, but you'd better get on back again.
Humans have a rough time spending even just a few hours here, trust me.
Tracy
Oh look, humans! How ugly!

This town is not for the likes of you.
Just leave, before I get really upset.
Vianca
Look, look!
Aww, humans! How cute!
Hey... we've never seen those humans before!
Carlotta
And like, what's with those clothes?
Totally lame, humans, like, lame-o!
You guys really are the pits.
Dolores
Hey, you. Move!
Elmo
I won't even pretend to understand humans.
There is one called Titus living here, but... I think he is a bit too odd to learn much from.
Juanita
Oh, what's this?
Some humans....?
I don't know many humans!
Quite a surprise to see you here...
Titus
Just as I feared...
Things have taken a nasty turn. It might be best to leave this town, quickly.
Titus
Well, hello again...
You seem to be handling things pretty well.
But don't let your guard down. Be careful, alright?
Titus
Of course, I can't be certain, but... I'm sure she is fine.
You'll see her again.
So try not to worry too much, OK?
Titus
Well, hello again.
And how can I help you today?

Jian
Well...
Actually, Beast King Zethos told us to come see you.
That you would be able to help us out.
Titus
Beast King Zethos?
Does this mean...
You intend on going to the Red Dragon Cave?

Jian
Yes.
The only way to defeat Ignatius is for me to become a Dragonmaster. I must!

Please, Titus, help us!
Tell me what you know!
Lucia...
Just who... what is she?

Titus
Ah, my boy, you ask so much.

Jian
Titus, please, we don't have much time!
Lucia is in danger, even now!
Ignatius has her!
Do you understand?
I have to save her, Titus!
Please, whatever you know, tell me!

Titus
Very well. Let me start by formally introducing myself.
Titus Lauren, Priest of the Goddess Althena, at your service.
Jian
Priest of... Goddess Althena?

Gabryel
But what is a priest doing here?

Titus
I perceived a threat to the Goddess Althena.

Jian
What kind of threat?

Titus
Something terrible...
A new and terrifying evil, poised to sweep over the entire world.

Gabryel
Do you mean... the Frontier?

Titus
That is correct.
Originally the Frontier existed to confine those evildoers for whom there was no other hope...
Until, that is, Ignatius turned his attention to it.

Gabryel
...What did he do?

Titus
Through a terrible abuse of Black Magic, he took the fiends of the Frontier and molded them into a Vile Tribe. Now, he stands at their head, a terrible and mighty army of evil.

The entire world is standing on the brink of being ruled by Ignatius and his Vile Tribe.

Gabryel
But hold on a moment... Isn't Ignatius a Dragonmaster?
Doesn't he serve the Goddess Althena too?
Why would he do all these terrible things?

Titus
It started when the Goddess Althena began to have doubts in her position.

She started to think that perhaps the future should be entrusted not to a single, all powerful individual, but rather to all the people in the world.
Jian
...And Lucia is...!
Titus
Yes.
In order to escape her pursuers, Goddess Althena transformed herself into a human girl. Lucia.
She sealed off her powers and her memories in order to avoid they're being used for evil, should she fall into Ignatius' hands.

Gabryel
But that still doesn't explain why Ignatius, a Dragonmaster, would be chasing Goddess Althena?
What's wrong with him?!

Titus
Ah, well, Ignatius believes the opposite of Goddess Althena. That the only way to lead this world into true paradise is for it to be controlled by a single, all powerful, omnipotent being, a central being watching over and directing everything.

Jian
....As Goddess Althena has until now...?

Titus
Ah, but his rule would not be as hers has been.
He desires to take the seat of Goddess Althena, and all the powers its position provides.
He ultimately plans to place even the Goddess herself under his control.

Ignatius and the Vile Tribe do not see the Goddess Althena as a divine being.
Nothing of the sort!
She is just something to be used for their own ends.
Jian
Althena this...
Althena that...!
I want to save Lucia!
That's all!

Gabryel
I understand, Jian, but...
Lucia is a goddess!
A heavenly being!
She is no mere courier...

Jian
I don't care about that!
I promised that I would protect her.
I'm going to save Lucia!

Titus
I see...
Sounds like you've got it bad.

Titus
But if you really intend to... If you really intend to save the Goddess Althena, then how about attempting the Trials of the Four Dragons?

Jian
But that would mean I'd become...?

Titus
Yes. Only one bestowed with the same powers as Ignatius has a chance of defeating him. Indeed, that is what Ignatius fears the most, for he too knows that another Dragonmaster would be able to fight him on equal terms.

Jian
Fight him on... equal terms?

Titus
In order to do so, you must pass the Trials of the Four Dragons and achieve the body and mental prowess of a titan! Do you think you can do that?

Jian
Oh yes! I can do it!
If there is a chance of saving Lucia, I'll do whatever it takes!

Titus
OK then, listen up.
Take Cathedral of Althena as the center.
There are caves to the east, west, south and north, and in each lives a dragon.
They are the Black, Red, Blue and White Dragons.

In order to become a Dragonmaster, you must go to each of these caves and pass the Trial of the Dragon within!
It will doubtless be a long and dangerous journey.
Gabryel
Hold on a moment, though.
Surely not just anyone can undergo these trials?

Titus
You are right, of course.
But Jian, tell me...
Haven't you started to feel his presence?

Gabryel
Jian? Feel who's presence?

Titus
When those open to the will of the Goddess begin to awaken to their powers...
A Dragonmaster and he who wishes to become a Dragonmaster shall start to resonate together.
Start to become aware of each other's presence.

In other words, Ignatius is starting to become aware of you, Jian, just as you have started to become aware of him.

Jian
Aware of Ignatius...?
Me...?
Jian
Well then, let's do this thing!
I'm gonna pass those Dragon's Trials...
And then I'm coming for you!
Ignatius, I'm gonna take you out!

Gabryel
Jian...
Titus
...Quiet!

Gabryel
Have they found us already?!

Jian
...Surely not...!

Titus
Prepare yourselves, just in case.
Titus
Who's there?

Girl
Hello?
Is Titus Lauren here?
I'm...

Gabryel
Hold on... I know that voice!

Jian
Gabi, hold on!
What're you doing?
Girl
Wah!!

Gabryel
Flora!
I thought it was you!
Flora
My heart almost stopped!
Did you have to leap out like that?

Titus
So she is a friend of yours, is she?

Gabryel
Yes. This is Flora.
She's on our side, I'm glad to say.

Titus
But why are you here?

Flora
Gabi's father told me to come. He said that I'd find you here.
Good to see you too, Jian!

Jian
Flora, I must say...
It's a surprise to see you here!

Flora
Ah, well, there is a reason.
You're going off on a journey again, aren't you! Its written all over your face.
In which case, you'll need my help.
Gabryel
Just what are you trying to say?
That I'm not enough on my own, eh?
Flora!

Jian
Put your claws away, ladies, please.
This is my journey to undertake the Dragons' Trials.

Flora
Oh wow!
The Dragons' Trials!
Fantastic!

Jian
Hey, this isn't a game any more! It's deadly serious!
We could all easily end up dead, OK?

Gabryel
And? You planning on leaving us behind again?
The brave knight protecting the poor defenseless princesses, is it?

Jian
No, that's not....

Gabryel
Lucia is important to us too, don't forget!
She's not just your friend.
I want to save her just as much as you do!

Flora
That settles that, then!
Just stop worrying, Jian.
We'll let you tag along with us, OK?

Jian
Yes, OK... hey!

Gabryel
Well then, we'd better get started!
Otherwise Ignatius' minions might Really catch up with us!

Titus
Very well.
Take care of yourselves, and be sure to come back safely!

Jian
We will...
And we'll have Lucia with us!
Titus
Do not underestimate Ignatius' power.
Please, take care... and be sure to come back safely!
Alvera
Now here's a sight!
Certainly not something we see everyday.
Humans and beastmen working together!
Alvera
Now here's a sight!
You look so down!
I didn't think even humans could look so feeble.
Alvera
I heard all about it!
We certainly don't see something like you every day.
Beastman, human, it doesn't matter any more!
You just do your very best, for all of us, OK?
Jian
I can see Victoria Square from the window...

...Hey.
I never noticed it before, but those Althena Statues actually look a little like Lucia... which means...?!
She's going to be hot when she hits twenty!
Balbo
Huh, what's this?
Some human kid playing at warriors, is it?
Off to slay the big bad beastie, are you?
Just get out of my face.
Balbo
Look, I know I've been rough on ya...
So... I'm apologizing, OK?
Now buck up kid, come on.
There's hope so long as you're still breathing.
Balbo
Huh, you really showed me a thing or two.
I mean, you're something else, human or not.
But don't go letting your guard down just because you won me over, ya hear?
Jian
Whoa!
What's a bottle of juice doing here?
Phew, I almost kicked it over!
Jian
Whoa!
He still hasn't put this away? Somebody might drink it...
Cara
Hold up, you there, claw girl. That's not a mask? I mean, you're a beast girl, yeah?
So what're you hanging around with this human for?

Gabryel
A mask?! Does my face look like a mask to you?!
You make me ashamed to be a beastwoman, honestly.
Human, beastman, so what?
Cara
You win some, you lose some, and some you lose, some you win.
That's called 'fighting',unles s I'm mistaken.
So, don't let it get to you... human.
Cara
First time I saw you, boy did I laugh.
You looked so small and weak!
But look at you now.
Now, I'm not laughing.
Evelina
Did I hear this right?
You obtained an audience with Beast King Zethos?!

Jian
An audience...? I guess you could call it that.
It was quite an... experience.

Evelina
Oh, really?
I'd love to hear more about it!
Oh, the honor!
It must be fantastic.
I'd so very much love to meet Lord Zethos myself!
Evelina
Hold on a second, though!
Why did Beast King Zethos grant an audience to a human like you?
I'm having trouble getting over that...
Evelina
Oh? You look quite upset...?
Finally coming down from meeting Lord Zethos, are you?
Evelina
I have to admit... I think maybe I've had you humans all wrong, perhaps for a while now.
Could you forgive me?
I might be on the sidelines, but I'll be supporting you!
Evelina
...!?

What?!
I didn't drink Balbo's Termite juice...
What are you talking about?!
Evelina
.....

OK, OK, I admit it!
Yes, it was I who drank that juice!
But please, don't let Balbo find out?
I couldn't stand to have him upset with me!
Jian
This is odd...
This bottle is half empty.
I wonder who drank it?
Jian
Well, I guess it just goes to show, you can't judge a book by its cover.
Gobi
Take a look around, kid!
This town is really something compared to the hovels you humans live in, I bet!
Gobi
Come now diddums, what's with the long face?
Don't take on so!
You're only human, after all.
The sooner you accept that fact, the better!!
Gobi
OK, I gotta admit it... I'm impressed that a human has done so much. You're obviously stronger than you look.
And smarter. And braver.
Jian
A white table.
I've been wanting one just like this, actually.
Juliet
Over on the Wrick continent there is a beast town even bigger than this one!
But you knew that already, right?
Juliet
You're quite impressive, you know?

I don't think any other human has ever been to the Frontier and made it back alive!
You're the first!
So try to be a little more confident.
Juliet
I wonder, are there any towns bigger than this one over on the Ghulian continent?
Hey, do you know?
Jian
She sure owns a lot of weapons...
Caution is one thing, but she could start a war with these!
Leoncavallo
I've heard all about your latest exploits!
Curse me, kid, you're even wilder than I thought!

Well, you're not backing down now, are you?
Hah, as if, as if!
I'm sure glad I gave you that entry slip...
Don't let me down this time, either, alright?
Leoncavallo
Hey, kid, that wasn't like you now was it!
Caught you off guard, did he?

But hey, you're a monster!
Remember?
So you are going to get a little revenge, am I right?
Well? Hey, I know I'm right.
Leoncavallo
Look at you, all dressed up and ready to kick some!
I'd expect no less from the guy who took my place in the tournament.
So go on, go clean up!
Jian
The Tournament Entrants List...

This thing sure is big...
They've got entrants from all over the world!
Jian
Thinking about it now, some real tough cases took part... I guess I must have been really lucky, as much as anything else, to do so well.
Marcella
Now look at you, with a girl on each arm!
I bet you think you're a real stud muffin, huh?
Well I won't be falling for you any time soon!
Marcella
Oh, stop your sniveling.

You lost a fight. So what?
I've lost plenty in my time, I can tell you!
Come on, honey buns, wipe those pretty eyes.
A tear-streaked face doesn't suit anyone.
Marcella
Hey there, honey...
You know, each time I see you, I think you look cooler.
Are you trying to make me fall for you, is that it?
Nita
This town is divided into Western and Eastern halves.
You're in the Eastern half now.
Nita
This town is divided into Western and...

...OK, OK, you get it by now.
I just don't have much else to say!
Jian
Hey!

That was close...
But what's a set of scales doing here?
Titus
I expected no less!
Well done with the trial of the Red Dragon!
You really are the chosen one. Good luck meeting the White!
Titus
So, you passed the trial of the White Dragon.
You still have the Black and Blue Dragons left to meet.
Hurry, before it is too late!
Titus
So, you have come this far...
The trial of the Black Dragon is now behind you.
Anyway, you'd better hurry and meet with the Blue Dragon!
Titus
To be honest... you have surprised even me.
Yes, you may be a chosen one, but you have exceeded even my expectations!

I see it now... all four Dragons are with you, always!
I'm now sure that you can finish this...
Titus
And now... to confront Ignatius!
No one can stop him but you!
Fulfill your destiny!
Lucia
Hey...

This album looks like...?
Jian
This album...
Lucia's got one that looks exactly the same.
Just a coincidence, I guess...
Othello
Oh, I'm sorry... I don't have anything for you to deliver today.
Please, try someone else.
Othello
So, you're more than just a delivery boy?
You should've said something.
Well, cheer up and fight on!
Tally ho!
Othello
Look at you now...
You've proven yourself to us all!
Fight on!
Lucia
Oh wow! What a pretty parasol! I think it would really suit me!
Jian, what do you think?
Jian
A parasol...

I bet Lucia would love this.
Rosa
You want me to say this again? OK... Just turn around and go back the way you came.
Spending time in this town is more trouble than it's worth if you're human!
Rosa
Hey, grumpy.
Who burst your bubble, then?
That's not like you! Smile!
Rosa
I've been hoping you'd come by.
Turns out you're really something, aren't you?
You've done great things for the humans in this town!
Tracy
Oh, you again.
And you've got a beast girl with you now?
We don't see that often around here...
Tracy
I've heard that falling in love makes a person weak.
What do you think?
Feeling weak recently?
Tracy
Oh, woe is me!
I wish there was someone to protect me!
Where, oh where is my valiant prince?
Vianca
Hey...
Look, look! Humans!

But just a moment...
One of them is a beast girl!
Vianca
Here's how I see life...
The first half is all about getting into trouble, and the second half is all about sorting that trouble out.

So welcome to the second half! You've got a short lifespan, huh?
Vianca
I see it, now... Beastmen and humans, working together, can achieve anything!
I've made this amazing discovery thanks to you!
Lucia
Hey, I'll tell you something cool!
Or perhaps you know already?
They say that if you face backwards and throw a coin in, your wish will come true!

Why don't you try it, Jian?
Jian
What was it she said...
Face backwards and throw a coin...?

....

Hold on...
What am I doing?
Carlotta
What's up, lame face?
You certainly are one ugly run-down creature!
I mean, just so totally, like... human.
Carlotta
Like, if I now look closely at your fabrics... I do believe they are, like, kinda cool!
You could totally start a new fashion!
Dolores
You've forgotten what I said before, right?
So, how is being strong working out for you?
Dolores
Excuse me...
Could I get your autograph?
Elmo
Actually, I'm a dentist.
Can you see it?
I'm pretty skilled, too, even if I say so myself!

Let me tell you about something that happened to me once.

'There's good news, and bad news,' I said.
'The bad news is, I pulled out the wrong tooth!'

'But the good news is, the rotten tooth that you were suffering from...'
'It's all better, all by itself!'

I haven't seen that patient again since!
That's real skill for you.
Elmo
How about I take a look at your pearly whites, huh?
What? You would refuse my skilled hands?
No need to hold back, come on, open wide!
Elmo
Oh yes, the other day...
My new assistant started work.

She looked quite nervous, it being her first job.
So, trying to help her relax, I said, 'Don't worry, it's my first time too!'

But I think my plan backfired...
She hasn't come to work again since... I was only trying to be kind...
Juanita
You know, I have the strangest feeling... I think maybe I've turned into a cat.

What's that you say?
When did I first feel like this?

Well, let me think... I guess... since I was a kitten?
Juanita
Oh this is terrible!
Oh my paws and whiskers!
My brother has turned into a tomato!

Yes, I know, this is very irregular. Yes, I know, it couldn't possibly happen.

But look, look at this!
This tomato...
It's my brother!
Alvera
Why yes, I am Alvera...

A package for me?
Whoever could that be from?
Well, I'll take it from you!
Thanks!
Balbo
What! A package?
Well, thanks...
Here ya go. So... see ya.
Gobi
Humans...!?
With a package for me...?
Well... huh. Thanks.
Juliet
Thanks very much!

I just sign here, right?
Thanks for bringing this to me, anyway.
I'm sure I'll be seeing you again!
Leoncavallo
Don't tell me you just rolled up here empty-handed?

A package...?
Well, that isn't exactly empty-handed... I guess I can let you off.
Nita
This town is divided into...

Oh... A package?
Sorry about that, then!
Here's your receipt!
Othello
What's this?
You've brought a package for me?
Good to see you working!
Well done.
Marietta
Looking at you, I gotta wonder...
Can those pasty limbs of yours really handle the stuff I'm selling?
Paolo
Oh, look at this!
You weak little things sure are going to get the most out of my stuff!
Norma
Thanks for your business!
I've heard it said that humans are quick, nimble, and good with their fingers?
So you should get on well with my goods!
Sandro
Hey, so how are things?
Work hard for me, OK?
Off you go then!
Toscanini
Well...?!
Sorry, but...
There's no food here I want humans eating.
Lucrezia
Today you'll see something special!
The strongest men from across the world are gathering!

Lucia
What's so great about that?

Lucrezia
Why? Must you even ask?!
Don't you like muscles?
Have you no eyes?!
Ungaretti
Hey, human dudes!
You here to chew down on Hellbird steaks, too?
Get some of that good stuff inside you!
Tartallia
Oh, I'm sorry...
All our rooms are taken.
It's due to the Tournament at San Coliseum... participants, spectators, this is our busiest season!
Aaron
Well, hello there!
I'm a traveling merchant.
I travel across the entire world!
Aaron
I can't take this much longer! I heard it was rough on humans here, but I never imagined it would be like this!

Are you here to see the Tournament?

Lucia
Oh? There's a Tournament?

Aaron
Which reminds me... I don't have time to stand here yapping!

We humans need the permission of Leoncavallo in order to get into the Coliseum.
Which means I need to find a bribe!

Lucia
A... bribe?

Aaron
OK, well, let's call it a present.
But man, you guys are really in the dark!

Leoncavallo has a famous sweet tooth!
And to get his permission, you need to soften him up a bit first.

Lucia
Ah, so a present. But what?

Aaron
His girlfriend, Marcella, should know.
I was about to go ask her.
Aaron
Now they are saying that Beast King Zethos is coming to watch the Tournament!
I've gotta be there for this one!
Pacini
You're the one who fought in the Coliseum?
Not much up close, are you...
Guess it was just luck.
Rosina
You sure surprised me!
A human, standing victorious over beastmen!
Or have my hallucinations started again?!
Orland
You almost gave me a heart attack.
But I've started thinking, you know... Maybe humans really are strong, after all?
Manzoni
You know what... I think you might actually be strong?
Amazing...
Just a gut instinct I have.
Luria
Hello!

Oh, I'm sorry.
No admittance without a ticket.
Luria
Hello!

Oh my!

You are a participant...?!
Well...
Don't come running to me with your broken limbs!
Guard
No unauthorized entry, humans.
Guard
Get your authorization from that desk over there.
Jian
I'm next!

Lucia
Jian!
Please, you don't have to do this!
Its dangerous! Too dangerous!

Jian
Lucia, still worrying, as always!
Don't you see?
I have to fight here!

Lucia
But, Jian...!

Jian
I'm gonna show them all that humans are no different from beastmen! We're just the same! I'm gonna show them how great humans can be!

Lucia
.......

Beast King Zethos
Oh, who requested the clown?
Quite a performance!
But a human does not stand a chance!
We should just toss you out, human!

But we are feeling generous today.
Let us see how long you last before you come begging for your life! Or indeed, before you are eaten alive!
Jian
....What?!

Lucia, get back!
Lucia
Jian, you're hurt!

Jian
But not defeated!

This isn't over yet!
Jian
What next?!

Looks even stronger than the last one!
But no match for me!
Lucia, get back!
Lucia
Jian...!
Please, oh please, stop this!
You've done enough.
More than enough!
Please, just end this here...

Jian
Sorry, Lucia... not yet!
Jian
Now this is more like it!

A worthy opponent, at last!
Lucia, get back!
Lucia
Jian, you moron!
You loser, you idiot, you fool!
You're making me worry so much! I may never forgive you for this!

Jian
Lucia, I'm sorry...
But look at me!
I'm fine, hardly a scratch on me!

Beast King Zethos
...Is he really a mere human?
Lucia
Jian, no!
Strange Girl
Quick, this way!
It's dangerous to stay here!
Follow me, quickly!
Lucia
I'm Lucia.
Thank you for your help!
But... I mean, aren't you...?

Strange Girl
...A beast?
Is that what you want to say?

But aren't humans and beastmen the same?
Both blessed by Goddess Althena, both watched over by her? Aren't they?

Lucia
...You're right.

Strange Girl
My name is Gabryel, anyway!
You can call me Gabi, if you like!
I'm....

Lucia
What is it, Gabryel?

Gabryel
Look over there!
What's going on, I wonder?
Let's go and check it out!
Lucia
....Jian?

Gabryel
What...?
Lucia
Jian! Oh no!
Hang in there, Jian!
Please, don't die! Oh, Jian!

Gabryel
Jian...?
This is the human who fought so bravely in the Coliseum?
But this is terrible!

Jian
Ow, my head.... Lucia....
What... what happened to me?

Lucia
....You're alive!

Jian! Oh, Jian!
I thought... thought you were dead!
You had me so worried for a moment there!
But I'm so glad you are OK.

Jian
Heh, sorry about that!
What happened to me, I wonder?

Hey... Lucia!
What's wrong with me?!
My body... won't do what I tell it to!

I can't perform any of my special skills!
None of my techniques!
No standing on my head!

Gabryel
It sounds like... the Curse of Lost Equilibrium...?

Lucia
Curse of Lost Equilibrium...?
That sounds... nasty.

Gabryel
It's a black magic spell that blocks an opponent's movement. In Jian's case...
It looks like he can no longer stand on his head.

Jian
Who was it?! Cursing me!
Who was it who put this terrible thing on me!

Gabryel
Zethos...
The Beast King, Zethos.

Jian
The King himself...?!

Gabryel
You'll have to meet with him if you want the curse to be lifted, I'm afraid.
Perhaps I can help you with that.

Jian
What do you mean?

Gabryel
Follow me, you'll see!
I can get you a meeting with the King.

Lucia
You can do that?

Gabryel
The Beast King is now in a city called Leephon.
I know the way there!
Follow me!

Jian
Thank you! Miss...?

Gabryel
It's Gabryel!
Call me Gabi, OK?
And no "Miss" either!

Jian
Thank you, Gabi!
Sorry to put you through this.

Gabryel
Don't worry about it!
Let's just get started for Leephon City!
Marietta
Come on in... I'd love for you to use some of my stuff!
Paolo
Well, hello there!
I'm sure that the stuff I'm selling will suit customers of your caliber!
Norma
Thanks for your custom!
Humans really are quick with their fingers, aren't they...
I hope my stuff continues to help you out!
Sandro
Hey there...
No need to push yourself, if you don't want to work.
You sure about this?
Toscanini
Welcome!
You eat whatever you want, as much as you want!
Don't worry, it's all on the house!
Toscanini
Welcome!
You can't fight on an empty stomach.
But if you want to win that fight, you'll need to eat a lot and get plenty of sleep!
Jian
I've never really seen beast food before, but...
You eat... this, do you?
Sorry, but I don't think my stomach is made for it.
Lucrezia
I'm disappointed in you!
You could have told me you were one of the valiant, well-muscled hunks I idolize!
Lucrezia
I heard about your troubles... Pure strength isn't enough sometimes, is it?
If there's anything I can do to help, just say the word!
OK?
Lucrezia
I don't know what these Vile Tribe guys' problem is, but sounds like they need a good beating.
I can tag along if you'd like.
Ungaretti
Hey, I see the aroma has attracted you too!
The Shreeker Pasta here is the best, just fantastic.
Dudes, you need to taste this chow!
Ungaretti
Hey, just between us dudes, but...
Have you checked the new menu? Madfang Roast!
What's that all about?
I'm not eating one of those dirty beasts!
Tartallia
Oh, I'm sorry...
All our rooms are taken... again.

We are just coming into the peak season for sightseers and tourists.
Tartallia
Hey, you there...!
I've heard all the rumors!
I'd love for you to stay here in my hotel, and then I can charge extra to stay in the room used by the mighty hero!

But, all our rooms are full... Sorry...
Jian
What's this...?
'Guests only beyond this point'
I see, so the rooms must be back there.
Aaron
Hey again!
Wow, you really were amazing!
I never thought I'd see a human fight so well.
Man, it felt good, I'll tell you that much!
Aaron
Well then... I think it's about time I hit the road.
I'm going to try crossing the Barrel Desert.
You guys hang in there!
Aaron
Man, that was hot!
I tried to cross the Barrel Desert, aiming for the Red Dragon Cave, but it was too much for me.
I'll have to think of a different route.
Aaron
Hey again... what's that?
You're going to the Red Dragon Cave?
Well, that's an impressive goal. Maybe I can help you out a little!

The cave is a blazing pit of lava and flame!
If you absolutely have to meet the Red Dragon, you'd better find an Insulation Crust!
It will protect you from the heat.

Jian
Where can we find one?

Aaron
There are holes here and there in the cave.
Just keep checking them all and eventually, with luck, you'll find one!
Aaron
You guys...
Quite the adventurers, aren't you?
But you don't compare to me!
Do your best, but don't think about competing.
Pacini
The more I see of you, human... the more convinced I've become that your victory in the Coliseum was just luck.
Pacini
Rumors of your exploits have reached us here!
You really are strong, aren't you?
I don't know what was wrong with my eyes, forgive me!
Jian
What's that?
It looks like... a flag?
Rosina
I heard that Leephon City was attacked by the Vile Tribe.
Or am I hearing voices again?
Rosina
You've certainly accomplished a lot.
I would love to do what you're doing, but my blackouts have started again...
Orland
You've had it rough, by all accounts.
But just take a moment to consider this.

Your grief now, however terrible it may seem, could actually provide you with the strength required to overcome the potential grief ahead.
So, turn it to your advantage! Stick to it. You can do it!
Orland
That's more like it.
Just as I've thought all along!
Humans are strongest in heart and mind.
That strength allows you to overcome almost anything!
Manzoni
You've really been to the Frontier and back?
I find that hard to believe... That's where those who disobey the Goddess are sent, right?

...So, what did you do?
Manzoni
OK, I think I understand the situation now.
But I do have one last question...

...Come on, tell me what you did.
Luria
Hello!

There are no events planned for the near future.
I'm looking forward to your entry in next year's tournament!
Jian
Hey, there's something written here...

'Caution! Dangerous Beasts!'
They got that right...
Guard
The tournament is over.
Only authorized personnel are allowed beyond this point.
Guard
That was quite a fight you put up.
I'm looking forward to next year already!
Marietta
What's that? A package?
And a heavy one too!
Thanks for bringing it!
Paolo
Hey, the weaklings!
Bringing a package for me?
Well, that's cool.
Thanks a bundle.
Norma
A package for me?
Good of you humans to bring it all the way here!
Well, just put it down around there somewhere.
Thank you very much!
Toscanini
Wel...?!

Sorry, humans, but...
What? A package?
Eh, well... OK. I can take that from you.
And, you know... thanks.
Tartallia
Hey, I'm sorry...
All our rooms are taken.

Oh?
You're here on a delivery?
Well, thanks for that then.
Quite out of your way, I'm sure!
Lucia
Oh wow! How beautiful!

Jian
Hey, Lucia, careful!
You know the legends about the giant, right?

Lucia
I know, I know!
I just wanted to touch it!
I don't need you mothering me, Jian, OK?
Gabryel
Hey, look!
How pretty! What is it, I wonder?

Jian
Don't touch that!
That sacred stone must not be moved!
You don't know about the legend?!

Gabryel
...Legend...?
Well, whatever you say.
Jian
OK then, listen up.
Long, long ago...
A fearsome giant, wishing to rule the world, went to question Goddess Althena.

'What can I do to make this world my own, Goddess?' he demanded.

The Goddess replied, 'In a single night, build a temple with one hundred stone steps in front.

Flora
Whoa!
That's a pretty tall order!

Jian
You'd think so.

But, for such a terrible giant, it was a simple task.
It took him only half the night to carve one hundred steps and a fabulous temple.

Gabryel
Surely that means our world...?

Jian
You'd think so.
However, being ruled by the giant would be terrible.
Fearing this, humans crept up while he slept and removed one of the stone steps.

Morning came and the giant proudly showed the temple to the Goddess.

However, due to there now only being ninety-nine steps, rather than becoming ruler of the world the giant was packed off to the Frontier.
That's the legend, anyway.

Flora
But what's the moral of the story?

Gabryel
...and everyone around here believes this legend?

Jian
I guess so.
That sacred stone is the step that was removed.
It's become something of an object of worship.

Gabryel
So that's where 'never complete the hundred steps of Delrich Temple' comes from?

Jian
That's right.

Flora
That glint in your eye, Jian!
You're going to complete the hundred steps, aren't you!?

Gabryel
What?!

Flora
Come on, Gabi, don't tell me you're actually buying into this superstitious nonsense?

Jian
I'm not.

Gabryel
...But are you sure about this?

Flora
I don't know about you, but I'm not seeing the White Dragon Cave anywhere around here.
I doubt we're going to stumble on it tracking blind circles around this forest, either.

Jian
Flora's right.
The key to locating the White Dragon Cave must be at Delrich Temple.
And it may well involve completing the stone steps.

Gabryel
OK, well, I see your point...
But I'm still a little worried about this!
Jian
I guess...
This is the entrance to the White Dragon Cave?
Jian
Looks like we finally found it!

Gabryel
This must be the White Dragon Cave.

Jian
Yeah, I think so.
So the entrance was here all along!

Flora
It's so dark...
But I guess the dragon is in there!

Jian
Let's hope so.

Gabryel
Well, there's only one way to find out!
Flora
Hey... look...

Gabryel
...The White Dragon?

Jian
...Looks that way...

White Dragon
Child of man.
Are you the one called Jian?

Jian
I am. And you are... the White Dragon?

White Dragon
But of course...
Unless you see something else, perhaps?

Jian
Not at all...
Tell me, how do you know my name?

White Dragon
You undertook the Red Dragon's Trial... And thus we dragons now know of you.
Now, have you come to defeat me, too?

Jian
Please, if there is another way...

White Dragon
Oh, come now.
There is no need to deny it.
We dragons are the embodiment of Goddess Althena's magical power.
We may lose our form, but we can never cease to be.
The energy that comprises us is simply released, in order to bestow our Black Magic.

Jian
...But still...!

White Dragon
Think no more of it.
Rather, you should be worrying about Ignatius. He can already feel your presence, and it is only getting stronger.

It is only natural, of course. For you are rapidly becoming a threat to him and his plans.

Jian
I hope so!

Gabryel
Jian is here for the Dragon's Trial!
Please, let him take it!
Quickly!

White Dragon
Ah, the Dragon's Trial...
Just like Ignatius before you.

He took my trial, received by Black Magic, and went on to become a Dragonmaster.

Thus, what proof can you offer me that you will not follow the same path of rebellion that he has?
Jian
What?
You think that I would choose to become like Ignatius?!

White Dragon
That is not what I said.
I merely asked for proof from you that such a thing could never happen.

Jian
I don't know what to say...

White Dragon
I fear you'll never convince me.
No matter how you try to explain it, there is no way for me to know the truth.

The only truth I can know is that which I have seen or experienced.

Flora
But that's so... hard-headed!
Jian is nothing like Ignatius! I promise! Please, believe me! Let him take the Dragon's Trial!

White Dragon
Ah, well... That, at least, you need not worry about.
For, by being here, you have already passed my Trial.
Gabryel
What? It's over already?!

White Dragon
You moved the sacred stone, did you not?

Gabryel
Yes... but...?

White Dragon
How long has it been said that the stone must not be moved?

People have learned to obey just because it is the simplest thing to do.
So long as it does no harm, people tend to believe and follow such superstitions.

But therein can lie danger.
A Dragonmaster must be able to both perceive truth and be willing to put those perceptions to the test.

You have already admirably displayed these skills.
Which means, you have passed.

Flora
That was the trial...?!
Well, if you say so...
Good news, eh, Jian?

Jian
No... not at all!
I don't believe it!

Gabryel
You don't?

Jian
You said it yourself, White Dragon!
That I must prove I am different from Ignatius!

White Dragon
You are right, I did.
What of it?

Jian
I'll prove it to you, then, here and now!
That I'm nothing like Ignatius!
White Dragon
I see...
So, rather than believe me, you want to prove yourself in combat, do you?

Gabryel
Hey... just hold on a moment!
Where does that come from?!

Jian
I'm going to save Lucia!
That's why I'm different from Ignatius!

White Dragon
What difference does that prove...?

Jian
Unlike him, I have someone to protect...
Someone I love!

Flora
Hey, Jian...
You really pick your moment, don't you.

Jian
Now fight me!
White Dragon
Congratulations, Jian...!
You saw through to the truth.
Past my lies that you had already passed the Dragon's Trial!

And that is not all!
I saw through to the truth inside you!
Your pure heart, so different from Ignatius!

Jian
White Dragon... thank you!

White Dragon
So tell me, Jian...
You need only look down and you can see your feet.
But it is impossible to look at your own back.

Jian
...My back...?

White Dragon
The truth, Jian, is there whether you can see it or not. It exists regardless of what people think.
Do you understand?

In order to become a Dragonmaster, you must have the ability to tell truth from lies.
You must walk the correct path, as an example to all who follow behind.

Jian
Yes, White Dragon.

White Dragon
Even if you cannot see it yourself... you must always remember that many others will be watching, and following, your back!
Flora
Oh...

Gabryel
White Dragon...!

Jian
...Thank you...
Abbado
Come on in!
You need weapons, right?
Right?
Well this is the place to get them!
Abbado
Come on in!
I've gathered my wares from across the world, don't you know. Which means plenty of rare goodies!
Cabot
Hey there!
In a spot of bother, are we laddie?
Well, I'm not one to judge my customers!
But you'd better get some new gear, you hear?
Cabot
It's simple!
This is the port with everything!
Which means this shop has everything, too!
Domenico
This just downright sucks...
Here I am, peddling to humans! Humans!
What is the world coming to, I ask you!
Domenico
Welcome... no, I mean it!
You guys are more than welcome.
Fancy a discount, maybe?
Dayan
You must've heard, right?

Big trouble at Cathedral of Althena...
Bigger things than work going down right now.
Dayan
Hey, delivery boy!
You've really gone above and beyond, huh!
I'm proud to have you working for me!

Which reminds me...
Work! Work!
Get it done!
Dayan
Hey, how you doing?
I've got a mountain of jobs for you.
Get them done!
Raiban
This is bad... real bad!
Oh man, I never dreamed this would happen!
What should I do?! What?!
Raiban
Hey there, come on in!
Everything's back to normal, thanks to you kids.
I'd love to give you one on the house, but... I don't have any milk. Sorry.
Raiban
Hey there!
I hear you are off to the Frontier?
Oh boy, you're really something!
You make me proud to be human!
Raiban
Now just listen to me for a moment...

Life is full of happenings.
Things happen.
Do you see what I'm saying?
Wouldn't life be dull if nothing ever happened?
Good things happen too!

So look...
Buck up, kid, OK?
Raiban
I could feel it in my bones, right from the start.
I knew you were something special!
You've proved me right, too!
Lil
I'm not going to beat around no bushes.
Load those buns of yours on the next ferry out of here.
Before things get too hot for you to handle, ok?
Lil
Hey, you!
I heard you gave that Gronk a right beating!
Your sweet little butt is tough too, huh?
Lil
Well, I did warn you!
But you went ahead anyway, didn't you?
Now you see what I meant, huh? Take the next ferry out of here, OK?
Lil
You're doing this for that girly, huh?
She was a cute little thing, I'll admit... I wish some guy would do what you're doing for me!

Go get her, then, sugar rump!
Monica
Say there...
You think it's true that Cathedral of Althena has fallen into the hands of the Vile Tribe?
Monica
Thank goodness!

To tell you the truth, I've been accepted to study magic at the Cathedral of Althena School of Magic, starting in the spring.
Thanks to you, I'll be able to go now! Thanks so much!
Monica
Say... I've been thinking...
You know how, in your dreams, all things are real?

But what if...
What if you dream they're not?
Monica
Say there... I've got some tasty leftovers here... if you're feeling a little hungry?

What...?
No thanks? Oh, OK.
Monica
Say there...
Is the world really going to fall into the hands of the Vile Tribe?
Monica
Poor little me... I wonder, where is my brave prince who would risk his life for me?'
Carmen
Oh dear....
The Curse of Lost Equilibrium?

So tell me...
Just what did you do to upset King Zethos?
Well, whatever it was, you're going to be stuck like that for a long time.
Carmen
You got a moment?

I heard you defeated Gronk?
But you didn't, right?
You shouldn't spread lies like that.
You know about the boy who cried blob, right?
You poor, weak little human.
Carmen
You're not normal, are you.
I mean, not human...

But, well, you're human, of course!
That's not what I meant... I mean, you're something... special, right?
Carmen
Hey there.
What's wrong?
You don't look yourself today at all!
Come on, tell me how great humans are again.
Carmen
I owe you an apology.
And I'm right behind you from now on!

No matter what anyone else says, I'm on your side, Jian!
Berio
You're quite the comedian.
Off to see King Zethos?!
I guess you've got a picnic to share with him too!
What a merry little world you must live in.
Berio
Hey there, picnic boy.
I hear you took out Gronk?
Huh, so what!
Don't go getting all full of yourself!
Berio
Tell me, small fry...
You heard the name Rufus?
He is the hero of all us beastmen.
The invincible warrior Rufus!
Berio
Well, I don't believe it.
I don't believe it, not for one minute!
The invincible Rufus...
Our hero, Rufus, defeated?!
There's been a mistake made, right?
Come on, tell me I'm wrong!
Berio
Please!
I'll stop making fun of you!
Avenge Rufus for us!
Avenge our hero... Please!
Absalom
Oh, this is bad news...
Cathedral of Althena was attacked by the Vile Tribe.
They've sent reinforcements from Leephon City...It's that bad.
I really hope that's enough...
Absalom
Well, that's good news.

Students from the Cathedral of Althena School of Magic stay here too, you see.
If that mess didn't sort itself out I was going to have to think about a different trade!
Absalom
The world is on the downslide, isn't it...
Now they say there's going to be a war?
I don't believe it... Everyone got along in my day...
Absalom
Well, what did I say?

When someone wins a fight, that also means someone lost.
Win or lose, nothing good will come of it!
Absalom
So, the brave knight is off to slay the bad guy!

You're perpetuating the circle of violence, that's all!
So long as you resort to combat there will never be a peaceful solution!
Can't you see that?
Give it some thought, OK?
Deliah
Oh, this is terrible... terrible!!

Eh? Don't tell me...

You haven't heard?
Well OK... here goes...
It's going to rain tomorrow!
Imagine!
And I have all this washing that needs to be dried!
Deliah
Out of the way! Move!
I'm trying to clean here!
Oh and just take a look at your feet!
Coming in here with muddy boots on. I have to clean this up, you know!
Deliah
What do you think?
You can see your face in the polish on that table!
And rightly so.
I've been cleaning since dawn to get it looking this good.
So don't you go messing anything up, you hear?
Jian
Looks like no one lives here...
Ira
Cathedral of Althena?
Yes, that's where the Goddess Althena is.

They have a School of Magic, too...
Guess what you can study there?
Magic, of course!
Actually, I'm a student there!

But I've been hearing unpleasant things recently...
Like, Gpddess Althena's not in the Cathedral any more?
Well, it is true that she has not shown herself for a number of years now.

But if she really is gone...

What's going to happen to the world?
Maybe that is why the Vile Tribe attacked?
That's got to be it! Oh my!

Oh, what I am to do?
Looks like no school for a while, anyway...
Ira
But, to be honest...
I'm actually a little happy about all this, because... I haven't done my homework yet!
Ira
What?
The School of Magic is starting lessons again?

Oh my!
I still haven't done that homework!
Ira
Finally...
Finally finished my homework!
Why do I always leave things until the last minute?
Ira
Oh, my head...
This studying magic stuff is pretty tough, when you get down to it!
Maybe I should quit the School of Magic...
Ira
This is bad! The worst!
The upcoming exam...
It looks super hard!
Maybe I really should quit the School of Magic...
Edna
Come one, come all, take a look, take a look!
I've got rare goods from the four corners of the world!
Find something, buy something!
Jay
Hey there, you, tough guy.
No fakes here!
Take a good look, OK?
You won't find stuff this good anywhere else!
Belinda
Huh, look at you!
Who do you think you are, human?
This isn't the time or place!
Belinda
Gronk?

He's a monster raised by the Vile Tribe.
A pretty intelligent one, too.
He's got underlings called Deuce, and alone or together, they're really tough!
Belinda
You've got to be kidding.
You defeated Gronk?

Dream on, kiddo.
But you do make me laugh, I'll give you that.
You humans really are a laid back bunch.
Belinda
You guys...
You're actually pretty tough, aren't you?
But still... don't go getting full of yourselves now!
After all, you are only human...
Belinda
Hey, you!

Is it true that Rufus was defeated?
You know something, right?
Tell me it's a mistake!

Jian
....I wish I could...
Belinda
My apologies... I got you all wrong, I think.
Just come back safely, OK?
Claudio
This is Olbeage, a bay town.
If you need anything, Carducci is your man.
This town is controlled by us beastmen, you see.
Claudio
Well, Olbeage is a place to relax, let time just pass you by, to enjoy a fine meal and the fine view.
At least, that's how it should be...
Claudio
You guys always look so busy.
How about relaxing once in a while?
There are some great restaurants here...
Claudio
Things piling up on you, are they?
Well, you know... that's the time to take things easy over a well cooked meal.
Claudio
Beastmen, human, it doesn't matter.
We can all enjoy a nice meal together!
Yeah! Let's do that right now!
Carducci
I can hardly bear to consider it... What if the Vile Tribe attacked us here?!

I hope those guards aren't slacking off...
Hey, you look like you've got some free time.
Go over to the checkpoint and see if things are OK, will you?
Carducci
Things have taken a turn for the worse!
Cathedral of Althena met with a surprise attack from the Vile Tribe!

We have guards protecting the bay, but...
It's surely only a matter of time, now!
What should I do! What?!

Jian
I'd like to know more about...

Gabryel
I'll take care of this!

Carducci
You...?!

Jian
Hey, Gabe!
What're you saying?!

Gabryel
Jian, don't worry!
Leave this to me!
I've got a great idea.

Carducci
Hold on a moment...
Just who are you?

Gabryel
Your guardian angel, perhaps?

But we don't have time for joking around, do we.
The situation at Cathedral of Althena is certainly grave.
Please, let us handle this!

Carducci
Let you handle it...?

But just what are you going to do?
More to the point, what exactly can you do?

Gabryel
Don't worry!
But I don't have time to explain.

Jian, Lucia...
You guys wait here.
I'll be right back!

Jian
What do you mean, right back...?
Hey, Gabi!
Where are you going?
Hold on, Gabi!
Lucia
Gabi...
She must have a plan of some sort, right?
Guard
Who goes there?
Halt! State your business!
Those without permission are not...

Gabryel
Those without permission are not what?

Guard
...?!

That's... why...
The royal emblem?!

You... you...
Where did you get that?!

Gabryel
Does it really matter?
So, what's it to be...
Am I allowed through, or not?

Guard
Ye...
Yes, of course.

My apologies. Please.

Gabryel
Ahem...

Well then, pleased we have that sorted out.
I'm glad you made the right decision. This will only reflect well on you!

Guard
Yes... thank you...
Lucia
...!?
Gabryel
Sorry to keep you waiting!
Ok, everything's sorted out.

Jian
Sorted out...
What is?

Gabryel
What do you think, muscle head?
We can now leave the Bay.
They've decided to allow us through the checkpoint.

Carducci
What? But how did you...?

Gabryel
I'll leave that to your imagination.
Well, you two?
What do you think of me now?

Lucia
Gabi, incredible!
Just what I'd expect from you.

Jian
You certainly have your moments.

Carducci
Well... I have no choice.
It is beyond my jurisdiction to override this decision.

Leave the bay and head northwest to get to Cathedral of Althena.
But please...
Do be careful, OK?
Carducci
But, I wonder...
How did she get the guard's permission?
Just who are these people...?
Carducci
Impressive!
You are really something special, after all!
I'd better stop judging humans simply by appearances.
Carducci
Our hero Rufus shall save us all!
Those Vile Tribe fiends shall fall like wheat before him!
You'll see.
Carducci
I know it's not true.
Rufus, defeated? Gone? Ha!
Vile Tribe propaganda, that's all!

Jian
...
Carducci
Hey!
You give them one for Rufus too, you hear me?
We're counting on you, Jian!
Eva
NO! NO! Get away from me!

Oh, you scared me stupid!
Who are you guys?
Could you... go away?
Guard
Halt! Halt!
Those without permission are not allowed to pass.
Go back! Go on, off with you!
Guard
My apologies for my conduct earlier. The bay gate has been opened for you.
Please, hurry through before the Vile Tribe find out.
Guard
...Amazing!

You really defeated Gronk?
If so... then I have to report this to Lord Zethos at once!
Guard
My Lady...!
My apologies again for my prior conduct!
Please, can you forgive me?
Guard
Just pleased to see you safe, Ma'am.
Guard
Nothing to report!
Take care, my Lady!
Guard
It's our duty here to hold off Gronk.
It's far too dangerous to leave the bay at the moment!
Please, turn back!
Guard
Gronk and those Deuce are a violent bunch!
Please, be very careful.
Come back safely!
Guard
Incredible...!
You took out both Gronk and his Deuce?!

That settles it, then!
I've got all the papers here!
Come join the Guard!
Guard
My Lady... that is...
Princess...!
Where might you be going today?
Guard
My Lady!
Are you OK?
Please don't do anything rash.
Guard
This place is safe in our hands!
Guard
Gronk has attacked, with four Deuce in tow!

Our comrades have gone out to meet them, but... I fear they won't hold them off for long!
If they fail...then we are doomed!

Curses!
Is there nothing we can do?
We have to hold them off here! We have to!
Guard
I don't know how long our comrades can hold out for...
Please, hurry!
Save as many of them as you can!
In the name of the king...!
Guard
I don't believe it...?!
You actually defeated Gronk?!

Well then, hurry to see King Zethos!
I'm sure he is waiting to meet with you.
Guard
My Lady...
There was no need for such subterfuge.

Honestly, you should have just told us the truth from the start... I can't believe some of the things I said! Your pardon!
Guard
My Lady... I don't know what to say!
Please, just be careful!
Guard
My Lady, please be careful... I wish you every success!
Amos
Welcome to Port Olbeage!

...is what I'd like to be saying right now.
But there are bigger things afoot!
Really, who could have imagined that things would turn out like this?!
Amos
You want to take the ferry?
You'd better get a move on, then!
It's about time for it to set sail.
Jian
Premium aged wines...?
I think I'm too young for those.
Jian
That is one big pot...
What could it be for, I wonder?
Jian
This is meant to be an empty room...
So what's this food doing set out?
Jian
Wow...
Books on magic, and serious stuff too!
Just looking at them is hurting my head...
Jian
Maybe I could use this spot to sell some stuff?
Lucia
Hey, look at this!
Someone's stacked these boxes really high!
I hope they don't fall over...
Jian
What's this?
Someone's left a book here.
Eva
You guys have become quite famous!
I'll invite you to my next house party, OK?
Just promise not to scare anyone!
Eva
I know what you've been through... Sounds like you need to take a break!
I can cook for you, if you'd like?
Eva
No! NO! Get away from me!

Oh, what? Just you again...
You're always creeping up on my, that's why!
Thank the Goddess you weren't the Vile Tribe.
Lucia
Oh wow!
What a huge kitchen!
Makes me feel worn out just looking at it!
Jian
Now this is a kitchen.
Plenty of room for Lucia to burn things in here!
Jian
Whoa, that's the biggest one of these I've ever seen!
I guess guards can handle it...
Jian
It would be nice to relax and do some fishing sometime...
Jian
Oh, Lucia...
Abbado
Say, is that package for me?
Finally, it's here! Oh yeah!
Thanks for that, buddy!
Cabot
Oh...? A package?

Finally my network of contacts is starting to pay off!
This shop will be number one before long!
Pretty impressive, huh?
You impressed?
Domenico
Ah, a delivery, is it?
OK, I know the drill.
All signed for!
Good job.
Raiban
Happy hour, every hour!

Huh?
You don't want to eat anything?
A package?!
Well, you sure do work hard.
Absalom
I don't believe it!
It can't be true! No!
A package for me?
Is this a mistake?

Well...
You're right, it is for me.
Thanks, then.
Ira
Oh wow!
Something for me?!
This is what a divine face like mine gets you, you see!
Adoring fans!

Oh, hold on...
It's just from my mother! Huh! She always did know how best to dash my hopes.
Carducci
What's that?
Oh, right, a package.

I was hoping for something more exciting, but...
You're just doing your job.
I guess you want a receipt, too?
Eva
Ah!

Oh, you scared me!
And just who might you be?
What? A package? That's all?
You really scared me, OK.
Like, really.
Agostini
Welcome to my home!

Although, I wouldn't expect too much... I don't really have much to entertain humans with!
I'm sorry... you understand, right?
Angelica
Oh, how charming!
How many years has it been since I last saw a human?
Bruno
Hey! Hey, you!
I dunno who you lot are, but you know who lives in that castle up there, right?
King Zethos!
So don't cause any trouble!
Enrica
Let me tell you something!
A beast girl only truly falls in love once in their entire life!
And that's with their first love!
Francesca
Oh wow!
So you really do exist?
I thought humans were a myth or something!
Guzman
Oh, I'm in a right pickle!
Garcia loves wine, you see.
But he won't drink a wine that he has tasted before!
Its getting harder and harder to find rare wines for him!
Oh, what can I do...?
Mantegna
Oh, I'm in a right bind!
Garcia loves strange foods, you see.
But he won't eat anything that he has tasted before!

It's getting harder and harder to find rare foods for him!
Oh, what should I do...?
Garcia
Yes, I am Garcia!
There is nothing I cannot buy! Anything I want, it is mine!
Like that!
Rosita
Excuse me?
I heard you came from Port Searis?
Well then, might I ask...

Did you see my brother there?
He said he was also going to Port Searis, so...
Well, if you do see him, tell him I'm thinking of him!
Vasco
Its true! I saw it!
Wish I'd never looked though.
Out from Sungrid Bridge toward the Frontier...
I saw a wasteland so barren as to freeze your blood!
Miranda
Due you know of the continent called Ghulian?
Supposedly it is mainly populated with humans.
You'd probably get on quite well there.
Marco
This town is the biggest in the world!
Did you know that?
And Garcia is the richest beastman in this town!
Ochoa
If I ever want to get married then I need to think about classes at the School of Magic.

Girls nowadays need to be able to perform a spell or two, right?
You agree with me, don't you?
Pasolini
Now this is a surprise...
What are humans doing here?
Well, whatever you want, you are not welcome in this town.
Go on, go back to wherever you came from.
Valencia
Thank Althena for our guards, the Phoenix Knights!
Without them here, well... I dread to think what may have happened!
Torricelli
It was a slap to the face, that's for sure... I never expected the Vile Tribe to get so close!
The world's really becoming a dangerous place...
Palestrina
Hey, have you heard the rumor? They say it was humans who saved Cathedral of Althena!
Can you believe it?
They'd have to be much bigger than you, for starters!
Silone
I heard that the Vile Tribe can get away with all this wickedness because of the absence of Goddess Althena!
Do you think that's true?
Tasso
I live by the Sungrid Bridge.
I just came into town to do some shopping today.
In fact, I'd better be getting back...
Jian
Gabi...

Gabryel
I'm sorry... I mean, I...

Lucia
Hey, we're not bothered about that anymore. If anything, I owe you an apology!
I didn't wait to hear what you had to say... It was cruel to say those things. I'm sorry.

Gabryel
Oh, Lucia...

Lucia
So come on, smile, OK?
This isn't like you, is it!
Cheer up!
And fight back next time, OK?

Gabryel
Thank you... I thought you wouldn't want to know me, now...

Lucia
What was that?
Did you hear something, Jian?
Anyway, forget that.
So, what next?

Gabryel
I'm not sure... I've been thinking hard about it, though!

Jian, what do you think?

Jian
.....
I'm not sure what you want me to say...
But I do think... well, you should just be yourself, Gabi. That's all.

Lucia
He's right!
Yes, that's exactly what I think, too.

Gabryel
...Be... myself...?

Lucia
Gabi...? OK?
Gabryel
Then what are we hanging around here for?
We're crossing the Sungrid Bridge, right?
So let's get a move on!

Jian
Even quicker than I expected!

Lucia
Gabi!
Yes, that's more like it!

Gabryel
Oh, you two...
Thank you both, so much.

Lucia
One thing, though...
You'd better let the Beast King know, right?

Gabryel
No, let's just go...
It's better this way.
I'm not going to do my father's bidding any longer.
It's time I decided my future for myself!

Lucia
Yes!
That's it! That's the spirit!

Jian
I've heard that women change their minds quickly...
And seeing you two together, there is more than enough evidence!

One minute you're fighting, then almost in tears, and now this!

Gabryel
Hey, Jian?
Did you just say something?

Jian
Ah, no...
Nothing, nothing.

Lucia
Right!
Then stop your mumbling!
Let's get going!
Agostini
I need to check something with you...
You've really been to the Frontier and back?
If so, we beastmen may have been underestimating the strength of humans...
Agostini
We have been too hasty...
Arbitrarily deciding what humans cannot do.
You've fought the Vile Tribe!
THE VILE TRIBE!
My apologies... I never even imagined such a thing.
Jian
'Join Us! Phoenix Knights!'
Looks like they're recruiting.
Angelica
Hello again!
But where's that pretty girl who was with you before?
Did she dump you?
Oh, you poor thing!
Angelica
Impressive!
You are going to be a Dragonmaster!

I know something about that.
Two dragons live in the Caldor continent and two dragons live in the Ghulian, so I'm told.
Bruno
The Goddess Althena turned this dead world, that had no grass, no trees, not even air, into a beautiful, green planet for us to live on.

It's thanks to the Goddess Althena that you and I are standing here right now!
Hope you appreciate that fact!
Bruno
I heard a strange rumor...
That Goddess Althena has been taken by the Vile Tribe.
If that is true... I don't want to say this, but...
The world is in big trouble!
Jian
Let's try something...

...OK, so rubbing it does nothing.
Enrica
I realized something for the first time when the Vile Tribe attacked.

That our world is at peace only due to the magical power of the Goddess Althena...
That her power is all that truly protects us!
Enrica
So tell me...
The balance of our magical world is starting to crumble.
The Goddess Althena has been taken by the Vile Tribe, and this is causing magical power to weaken...

Have I got this right?
Francesca
Hey, humans...
You've been to the Frontier, right? Which means you saw the Vile Tribe?
Tell me, then...
What were they like?
Francesca
Hold on a moment...
Isn't the Dragonmaster meant to protect the world, along with the Four Dragons?
So what's he playing at?
How did all this happen?
Guzman
I'm not sure what's going on, but... our Beast King Zethos has been acting a little odd recently... I can't really explain it...
Guzman
I've heard of a village on Ghulian where humans live peaceful, happy lives.
I think I'd like to try living like that myself.
I've had enough of the city.
Jian
Amazing...
Shoes encrusted with jewels!
Of course, they've only been worn once... What a waste.
But they wouldn't be any good in battle.
Mantegna
I've heard that some humans live in the Frontier.
I wonder... what kind of existence can they have in a place without the magic of the Goddess Althena?
Mantegna
The girl with the bow...
She's from the Frontier, is she?
But she's not Vile Tribe, right?
Garcia
Yes, I am Garcia!
This Ignatius problem is all about money.
I'll just buy up the entire Frontier!
Money can solve anything!
Garcia
What's this I hear?
You're going to take Ignatius on again? Fantastic!
Especially for the youth of today.

If you make it back safely, I'll buy you something special!
Jian
I don't believe this...
This mattress is made from money!
The pillows are stuffed with it!
Rosita
Have you heard of a continent called Ghulian?
I hear it's quite a place...

But I could never make it through the Meryod Cave.
There was a ferry long ago, I heard, but it doesn't run any more.
Rosita
The Meryod Cave is a very dangerous place...
That's what my brother told me, anyway.
He tried to pass through it many times and barely made it back alive each time!
Jian
Hold on... I think I've seen this box before...
Did I deliver it here?
Vasco
You're kidding, right?
You've really been to the Frontier?
Vasco
There are said to be human towns and villages in Ghulian. The rolling countryside, surrounded in nature...
Might be a nice place to spend some time!
Jian
Is that...
Beast King Zethos!
They even have posters...!
Miranda
A strange old man named Kirlis lives in Ghulian, supposedly.
He's said to have an impressive collection of rare things from around the world.
Miranda
I've heard of a village in the middle of a forest in Ghulian. Doesn't that sound romantic?
Marco
Have you heard of Barrel Desert?
They have ant lions there that can suck you in!
You'd better watch your step if you ever go there!
Marco
That reminds me... I've heard that two dragons live on Caldor.
The Red and White Dragons...
Jian
Now this is impressive...
What a suit of armor!
It looks like it's made from dragon scales!
Is this dragon mail, perhaps?
Ochoa
And...

Transmo-frogrification!

Oh, this is no good... I'm not making any progress.
I've been studying the spell to turn a human into a frog on my own, but it won't work!

I guess I do need to go to the School of Magic, after all...
Ochoa
Those dragons...
Why do they all live in caves? Pretty odd choice for a home, if you ask me.
Jian
What's this...?
Pretty careless leaving it lying around here, to say that it probably has money in it.
Pasolini
The humans found at Althena's Cathedral...
Was that you, by any chance?
Just what happened?
Pasolini
The human who has gained the King's trust...
Is that you, by any chance?
Just how did you manage that?
Valencia
I've got a great idea!
Why don't you join the Phoenix Knights?
They'll train you up good.
That sounds like a good idea!
Valencia
I'm sorry...
The Phoenix Knights are for beastmen only.
Humans are not allowed.
I was so sure you'd do well...
Jian
Now, I know my boxes...
And this is one heavy box.
Just what could be inside?
Torricelli
You fought with the Three Brothers of the Vile Tribe?
Now that is impressive!
So what went wrong after that? Did you... let your guard down, perhaps?
Torricelli
Rufus is our hero!
He always has been...
And he always will be!
Palestrina
Hey, have you heard the rumor? Humans fought the Vile Tribe in the Frontier!
I don't believe it!
They'd have to be taller than you, at least!
Palestrina
Beast King Zethos has made a proclamation that there is to be no more discrimination against humans.
I wonder what happened to spark that off?
Jian
'Pisarno Square...'?

This square is famous for being where Pisarno, founder of the School of Magic, received the teachings of Althena.
Even now, he is still a hero to all beast people.

I see... so it's named after a hero.
Silone
This fountain is called the Fountain of Truth.
It reflects the true heart of all who look into it.

Liars, or those with a false heart, see themselves reflected with the face of a monster.
Why don't you take a look?
Silone
How rude! Honestly!
I looked in the pool and saw the face of a monster!

But... now that I look more closely...
That's just my face.
So what does that mean?
Tasso
I'm in something of a fix...
You know about the trouble at Sungrid Bridge?
So I don't really feel like going home. I think I'll just hang around here a bit longer.
Tasso
Silone has got it all wrong.
It makes no difference what your heart is like when you look into that fountain.
It just shows the truth, nothing more!

And yet she sees the face of a monster...

I guess you know what that means, right?
Agostini
What's that?
A package, for me?

It certainly is nice to receive something, especially when you don't know what it could be!
Thank you very much.
Garcia
Hey, hey, hey!
I've been waiting for this!
Something else expensive for my collection, I'm sure!
Well then, hand it over!
Come on, quickly!
Miranda
Wow! A package for me?
Thank you!
Well, I've received it.
I'm pleased you stuck around!
Pasolini
Look, human... what?
A package?
Right, OK... sorry about that. I just sign here, right?
Thanks.
Torricelli
A package, for me...?
Not sure that I want it!
It could be from... you know, the Vile Tribe...
Quasimodo
This place is called Peace Hall.
We discuss all of our problems here.
Maria
Whoever believed that such a thing could happen at Cathedral of Althena?
We shall have to be vigilant from now on.
Linda
I'm just happy that the priests and students at Cathedral of Althena School of Magic are all safe.
That's thanks to you, too, isn't it!
Janus
Good to see you...
The stuff I'm selling, you won't find anywhere else.
So it won't hurt to buy something, right?
Beast King Zethos
Please, try not to think badly of her...
She did not mean any harm.

Jian
I know...

Lucia
But I understand so much more now... That's why she was also so bossy in battle!
Every other second she would be shouting 'Don't let your guard down. Be ready for anything...'

If I started cutting corners or playing around while fighting, she'd get so angry!

Jian
She couldn't bear the thought of losing you, Lucia.

I guess she knows all too well what it takes to fight in the Frontier... because she has seen how those she herself has selected, fail and fall.

That's why she believes in putting your all into even the smallest of skirmishes, and fears letting your guard down more than anything...
Because she knows what may happen if you don't.

Lucia
Oh, poor Gabi...!

Beast King Zethos
But this time, she appears to have made a terrible mistake.
As I fear, I have too.

Jian
A... mistake?
What do you mean?

Beast King Zethos
I admit it, you are strong.
But you are still only human.

All our strike forces until now have been made up of the strongest beastmen we could find.
I don't think a human has ever dared to even set foot inside the Frontier.

We watched you fight in the Coliseum and I admit, we were both very impressed with what you did.
But ultimately, humans are not made for combat.

Jian
...Is that your answer, then?
I have to admit, I did wonder what the high-and-mighty Beast King, who still shows no remorse over the terrible curse he himself placed on me, would have to say!

Lucia
Jian, calm down...

Jian
No, Lucia, let me finish!
I'm not about to forgive anyone who puts humans down so easily, even if he is a king!

Beast King Zethos
Well, I do apologize for placing you under the Curse of Lost Equilibrium.
But the curse will lose its power naturally, in only, oh... a few more days time?

Jian
What? What do you mean?

Beast King Zethos
The new strike force will set out tomorrow, led by a beast mercenary called Rufus.

I guessed that Gabryel would set her sights on you, and end up bringing you to me.
But including a human in the strike force would stir up unwanted animosity across the world.

Thus, I decided that a temporary hindrance to your powers was required.
Then, she would surely just give up on you.

But she did not...

Because, from the moment she declared that she would allow no more casualties, she went looking for truly strong warriors.

And she found one and came back... with you.

Jian
...Gabi...

Beast King Zethos
Even under the burden of my curse, you battled on and overcame fearsome trials.
Indeed, here you are, standing before me...
I cannot hide my surprise at this turn of events.

Jian
...I don't give up easily.

Beast King Zethos
Indeed, you do not!
But, so what?
You are still human!
Do you truly believe that a human can save us from this peril? Indeed, save the world? That you can fight and win against the Vile Tribe?

Jian
I won't know that until I try, will I!

Beast King Zethos
...!?

Jian
I've lived my life so far without ever once thinking that humans and beastmen are different.
But I've just found a big difference, haven't I!

Unlike humans, beastmen don't seem to be able to believe in themselves, do they?
You're really making me glad that I wasn't born a beastmen!

Beast King Zethos
Belief in oneself...
Very well. If you are willing to go that far, try and cross the Sungrid Bridge.
That will lead you into the Frontier.

Jian
You have made the right decision!
I'll prove to you how well these 'humans' you dislike so much can fight!
Come on, Lucia!
Lucia
Hey, Jian!
Hold on a moment!
Stop tugging!
Jian!
Ezekiel
Lord Zethos...
Are you sure about this?
Permitting ones like them to...?

Beast King Zethos
Yes, I am sure...

Well, my daughter, I expected no less from you!
Finding humans of this caliber... impressive!

What do you think, Ezekiel?
Are you not in the least bit interested to see what will happen?
Beast King Zethos
It requires real courage to cross the Sungrid Bridge, mark my words.
And you may not be able to return from the you have defea ted the Vile Tribe.

Prepare well for the long battle ahead! Equip yourselves well before departing!
Ezekiel
Lord Zethos has important matters to discuss with you.
Listen carefully to what he has to say.
Ezekiel
I am worried about my lady.
You can probably find her in Pisarno Square.
That's where she goes when things get too much for her...
Guard
Don't be rude to our king, now!
Guard
Quiet!
No talking here.
Guard
Please, just don't cause a fuss, OK?
Guard
Sir!
Nothing to report, sir!
Guard
Just between me and you...
What do you think will happen if the Vile Tribe attack?
I guess we guards will have to... fight, right?
Guard
Huh... I hate humans.
You're just so ugly. Get lost.
Guard
ZZZzzzz...!

Ah!
I wasn't sleeping on duty!
Never!

Huh, just some human kids?
Man, I thought it was Lord Zethos!
Don't scare me like that, OK?
Guard
I'm not sleeping!
I mean... nothing to report!
Guard
Standing here all day is actually a lot tougher than you might think.
I wonder if I can swap spots with someone...
Guard
This is Zethos Castle, residence of our king.
Those without clearance are not allowed inside.
Guard
This is no place for tourists! If you don't have business here, get lost!
Knight Guard
Sorry, can you move please?
I need to sort all this junk out in preparation for our next battle.
Knight
Oh, you want to join Zethos' Knights?
Well, you'd better find our captain, then...

Sorry, I'm mistaken?
Well, my apologies, then.
Sorry for getting in your way...
Knight
We're currently looking for new Knights...
You sure you don't fancy it?
You get great dental!
Knight
The captain is in the guard house, if you want him.
Knight
We are fortifying our numbers with the best of the best, in preparation for the tough times ahead.
Come on then, Vile Tribe!
Bring 'em on!
Knight Captain
Hey there, human.
You're the one who defeated Gronk, right?

Well, a real shame, but...
The Phoenix Knights are not allowed human members, so...
No hard feelings, right?

Jian
...Yeah...
Ezekiel
My Lord Zethos!
I have brought those humans to see you.
The ones who were trying to get into the Chamber of Rebirth in Cathedral of Althena...

Beast King Zethos
Confirm it for me, Ezekiel...
They also, truly, defeated Gronk?

Ezekiel
Apparently so...
Rufus said as much.

Beast King Zethos
I see...
So humans defeated Gronk and his Deuce...?

Ezekiel
That certainly appears to be the case, my Lord.

Beast King Zethos
Interesting...
Maybe, just maybe...
Very well!
I shall meet with them!
Lucia
Hey, get your paws off me, OK? Is this any way to treat a lady?!
Beast King Zethos
Well, this is quite a sight!
What a feisty young girl you are.

Lucia
...?!

You're Beast King Zethos?!
Finally... we've made it!
You'd better put my poor Jian back to normal right away, or I swear I'll...!

Beast King Zethos
Jian...?
My apologies, girl, but I have no idea who you mean.
What exactly do you want me to do?

Jian
So this is Zethos, is it?!

Beast King Zethos
... This? It?

Jian
Just tell me, why?
Why did you do it?
First at the Coliseum, and now this!
Do you really want to repress humans that badly?!

Come on, then!
I'm waiting for an answer, Zethos!

Beast King Zethos
...No, impossible!
Can it be? That youth from the tournament?

Lucia
Yes, it can! It is!
My Jian, whom you saw fit to plague with the Curse of Lost Equilibrium!

Gabryel
...

Beast King Zethos
I see...
Well, I think I understand what is going on here.

And so? What do you want from me, young human girl?
Lucia
Oh, nothing much...
Prepare yourself!
I won't hold back!
Ezekiel
Lord Zethos...!
Beast King Zethos
So that's how it's to be, is it?
Very well! Entertain me!
Ezekiel, get back!

Lucia
Come on, then!
No need to hold back, King!
You'd better not take it easy because I'm a girl!

Beast King Zethos
Oh, I do not intend to, human. But do you really believe that a cursed knight and his sweet little princess have the strength to defeat me?

Lucia
Just you wait and see!

Beast King Zethos
Well, ladies first.
Come on then, have at me!
Jian
Lucia, get back!
I've got to handle this one myself...!
Gabi, take care of Lucia!
Beast King Zethos
Human boy...
You'll find me quite different from that Vile Tribe, I think!

Jian
I'd expect no less!
Now shut up and fight!
Lucia
Jian!

Jian
....

Lucia
That's great!
Jian, you're back to normal!
The Curse of Lost Equilibrium has been broken!

Jian
Thank you, Lucia.
I always seem to make you worry, don't I?
And you, Gabi...
It's thanks to you that I got this far.
Thanks for everything.

Gabryel
Hey, knock that off!
No need to thank me, after all we've been through together!

Beast King Zethos
Well, that hurt!
My ears are still ringing!
I must've let my guard down...
Lucia
Hey!
Is that any way for a king to behave?
How about you cut out the excuses and just recognize how strong Jian is?
Jian
No, Lucia... you don't get it. Beast King Zethos didn't fight at full strength.

Lucia
He didn't?!
Jian
Now, I want my answer!
Just what has this all been about?

Beast King Zethos
...Very well...

Lucia
Hold on, I still don't get it! What do you mean, he held back?

Beast King Zethos
Jian, is it...
Your fight at the Coliseum was impressive, I admit.
As impressive as your deeds at Cathedral of Althena!

You have done well to battle against such odds and make it here safely.

I can see where your initial interest in these two must have come from, Gabryel.

Jian
...Gabi...?!
Lucia
Now I'm even more confused!
Gabi, what's he talking about?

Gabryel
...
Lucia
Does this mean...
You've been deceiving us...?
That you had some... ulterior motive in becoming our friend?

Gabryel
Lucia, please...

Lucia
Come on then, let's hear it!
Gabi! If that's even your real name?!
Gabryel
Papa, I can't do this any more!
Please, no more... I'm so sorry!
Jian
Gabi!
Beast King Zethos
Please, forgive my daughter... She did not mean to hurt you.
Jian
Hold on... daughter?!

Beast King Zethos
I'm afraid she's been working for me, traveling the world and searching for powerful fighters.
She has suffered more than I thought, it seems.

Jian
I'm sorry... I still don't really understand?

Beast King Zethos
You know of the Vile Tribe?

Jian
Yes...
We fought them at Cathedral of Althena.
They were pretty strong, too.

Beast King Zethos
Well, that's only the start of it.
Our world stands poised on the brink of a crisis like none we have faced before.

Why? Because the Goddess Althena has fallen into the hands of the Vile Tribe.

Jian
Are you... sure?!
If that's true, then the magic in the world...!

Beast King Zethos
It is already growing weaker.
The region known at the Frontier is threatening to envelop the entire world, even as we speak.

However, we are not about to just sit idly by and watch this happen! Of course not!

We've been gathering fighters from across the world and sending them into the Frontier.
My daughter was helping us with this endeavor.

Countless times now we have gathered a force, sent them into the Frontier and awaited their return. But our hopes remain unfulfilled, for not a single one...
Not a single warrior has returned alive from the Frontier. Not... one.

Jian
...

Beast King Zethos
Each time, I have watched my daughter fall into a deeper depression at the loss of those she has helped gather.

And yet, we cannot allow the evil of the Vile Tribe to find any greater purchase among us! No matter how many times we are defeated, we must rise up and fight back again!

Jian
But...

Beast King Zethos
I know, I know.
We are reaching our limits.
Anyway, I would like to make things up to you.
Please, take a little time and get some rest.

Jian
Thank you...
Ezekiel
My lady, you are here too?
Just what can we do for you?

Beast King Zethos
Jian...
You look all better now, I see.

Gabryel
Papa, please!
Tell us how to defeat Ignatius!

Ezekiel
My lady!
Just what has brought this on? With respect, I would have thought you, of all people, would now understand Ignatius' strength.

Beast King Zethos
Ezekiel... I am sure they do understand, all too well.
But look at their eyes!
Serious, blazing eyes!
Do we not have a duty to answer sure fire?
With honesty?

Ezekiel
My Lord... My King...!

Beast King Zethos
Jian...
Have you heard the word Dragonmaster before?

Jian
...Dragonmaster...?
Gabryel
Ah, I know!
It is said that Goddess Althena has four faithful Dragons, sworn to protect her with their very lives. And these Dragons are commanded by the Dragonmaster!

Beast King Zethos
You are correct, my daughter.
And currently, Ignatius is the Dragonmaster of the Goddess.

Jian
...What?!
Gabryel
But... that's impossible!
Ignatius... a Dragonmaster?!
Which means... the fighters I have been bringing to you, you have intended them to fight a Dragonmaster?!
No way...!
But they don't have a chance!
Papa, that's awful!

Beast King Zethos
Perhaps I have been unfair to you, my daughter.
I will accept that...

But look at your side now.
Jian ventured into the Frontier, fought with Ignatius, and yet here he stands! Alive and well to tell the tale!

Gabryel
...That's true, but still...

Beast King Zethos
You are the one who just said that none could stand a chance, are you not?
And yet Jian, whom you selected, is trying to alter the future for all of us!

Gabryel
But... I didn't know...!

Jian
Gabi...
Don't worry about it.
You beasts do little but mock us humans, I know.
I've seen it.
Saying how we're so weak, worthless, pathetic.

Gabryel
Jian... I've never said that!
Not once!
Never even thought it!

Jian
I know.
But you are the exception, Gabi...
Most beasts, well...

Beast King Zethos
Jian...
May I ask something of you?
That sword... it belongs to Rufus, does it not?
Jian
It does...

Beast King Zethos
I have been thinking... pondering...
The meaning of that sword being here...

Jian
....

Beast King Zethos
And I think I understand, now, why Rufus was willing to lay his life on the line to protect you.

I am ashamed... Not just for myself, but for all of us beastmen. How we have mocked and oppressed humans!
I am... truly, truly ashamed.

Gabryel
Papa...

Beast King Zethos
Thank you for keeping my daughter safe.
Please... could you find it within yourself to forgive us? Could we perhaps... join hands, now, and fight together to take back peace from the jaws of the Vile Tribe?

Jian
Yes, King Zethos!

Beast King Zethos
There is a man called Titus Lauren living in Healriz.
He should be able to help you both.

Gabryel
Papa...
You mean...?

Beast King Zethos
You wouldn't listen even if I tried to stop you!
You're old enough to make your own decisions, too.
Decide for yourself what you will do.

Gabryel
Papa... thank you!

Beast King Zethos
Jian, please look out for my daughter!

Jian
I shall.
Beast King Zethos
Gabryel, my dear daughter...
Do not push yourself!
If things get too dangerous, turn back! Do you hear me?

And Jian! Please look after my daughter!
Beast King Zethos
...

Gabryel
Father, I'm sorry...
There was nothing I could...
Beast King Zethos
Say no more...
You are back here, safe.
That is enough for me.

Gabryel
Papa...
Beast King Zethos
Great Althena!
...Isn't that...?!

Gabryel
Yes. Rufus' sword.
Ignatius had it.
Beast King Zethos
Which means...
The advance party was wiped out...?

Gabryel
No.
Not wiped out!
Jian and I made it back, didn't we?
We can still fight!
Beast King Zethos
Gabryel...
You have grown up so much, in such a short time!
Don't you agree, Ezekiel?

Ezekiel
Certainly, my King...
But I must admit, I fear terribly what may befall Lady Gabryel, facing such dangers!

Beast King Zethos
You make a good point...
Perhaps we should chain her down now, before she gets away again, eh?

Ezekiel
Please, Lord Zethos... I fear the time for such levity has long since passed.
The Goddess Althena is now in the hands of the Vile Tribe!

Beast King Zethos
You are right, of course.
But that, that was a shock.
To think, that girl was the Goddess all along!

Gabryel
I still don't think Jian believes it...
But I saw Lucia clearly.
It was her.

Beast King Zethos
Which means...
Ignatius could attack again at any moment!

Ezekiel! Send out the word!
Strengthen the guard on Cathedral of Althena and be ready for attack at any time!

Ezekiel
Yes, my King. At once.
Beast King Zethos
So, my daughter...
How is the youth Jian taking this?

Gabryel
Not well, I'm afraid.
Two big shocks in quick succession.

First the truth about Lucia, and then being beaten by Ignatius...
We're going to have to handle him carefully for a while, I fear.

Beast King Zethos
I see...
Well, I trust your judgment.
For now, just your being at his side is enough.
But I do hope that he recovers quickly...
Quasimodo
Our eternal theme is that people should live peacefully. Beast King Zethos has different ideals to those of Ignatius.

Beast King Zethos created a kingdom and laws in order to allow people to live peacefully.
So long as people abide by these laws public safety is maintained.

However, Ignatius believes that he is the law, that he is a God himself, and he wants to rule supremely over all that he can.
Quasimodo
The Goddess Althena...
Beast King Zethos...
and Ignatius.
Each has their own way of leading the people.

Regardless of the finer points, I can say this...
Of the three, only Ignatius has evil in his heart, and only he employs methods not in the interests of all.
Jian
I guess they stand on this platform and discuss all manner of issues...
Maria
This is frightening news...
Confirmation that the rumors about the Goddess falling into Vile Tribe hands are true.
Then the worst possible situation has come true!
Maria
The magical power of the Goddess Althena is massive.
If that power falls under the control of another, there would be no stopping that person!
Linda
Why can't people cease meaningless conflict?
Someone, please, tell me why!
Why?!
Linda
If this magical world falls under the control of evil...
Then it shall be the end of us all! We shall never know peace again!
Jian
They could sell some of this armor, and at a good price too... I'd buy a suit of it!
Ezekiel
My Lady, please, take the utmost care...
Come back to us safely!
Guard
Nothing to report!
Knight Captain
I'm sorry...
Only the truly strong are allowed membership in the Phoenix Knights.
Don't take it badly, kid.
Knight Captain
Now I look like a fool, don't I?
Well, we'd love to have you join us. But I know you have other problems right now.
I'll just leave the offer open, OK?
Gabryel
I'm sorry...

I don't want to meet Papa yet, OK?
Please, let's go back.
Janus
Welcome, wel...

Ah...
A delivery, is it?
Sorry, thought you were a customer!
OK, well, thanks for that!
Vile Tribe
Hey! Get in here!
You going after Zethos' minions, are you?
You'll need what I'm selling, then!
Vile Tribe
The morons dispatched by Zethos are strong, I'll give them that...
You're going to need tough armor to take them on!
Vile Tribe
Come in, come in!
I've got everything you might need!
Just take your time.
Vile Tribe
You looks likey a potential customer!
I'll buy anyfink, anyfink at all!
So you be bringing me anyfink!
Vile Tribe
The fee is 100S.
Do you want to know how lucky you are?
Then let us begin!
Go ahead!
I see...
That's a shame.
Vile Tribe
The fee is 100S.
Go and smash your piggy bank, and get back to me.
...Oh no!

My apologies...
You have EBL for the day ?
Extremely Bad Luck.
You'd be better off crawling back into bed until tomorrow.
...Bad news!

This is not good...
You are Unlucky!
It could've been worse, but... You'd better take it easy until your luck changes.
...Fair enough.

It looks like you are Lucky.
That's pretty good, right?
At least there is no danger to your life!
...Great!

This is nice for you!
You're Very Lucky!
I think something wonderful may be about to happen!
...Incredible!

Congratulations!
You are Super Lucky!
This is fantastic!!
Amazing things lie in store for you!
Vile Tribe
My 'fortune tickets' always tell the truth!
When you have good luck, you might find enemies offload more goodies when beaten!
So go on, give it a try, why don't you?
Nameless
We don't believe in Althena, so our village doesn't need an Althena statue.
The only thing we believe in is... Ignatius, and Ignatius alone.
Nameless
For a long, long time now we have suffered as a race forgotten by the rest of the world.

I have no trouble believing that even the Goddess Althena, the very one who sent us here, has long since forgotten that we exist.

You could never understand the pain that comes with simply existing...
The pain of having no purpose.
Nameless
Resistance is futile!

Finally, the time has come for us to take back the green, lush lands for ourselves!
Our Lord is making his stand, to save every living creature in the Frontier!

Our Lord! Ignatius!
The final ray of light piercing the dismal clouds of our fate!
Nameless
All he is trying to do is lead us, the Vile Tribe, in transforming the Frontier into a green and verdant paradise!
Why must you continue to interfere?!

You're not the only ones trying to get back something you've lost, you know!
Just give that some thought...
Vile Tribe
There is the entrance to a mine shaft in the center of the village.
It isn't used anymore, though. This whole area was mined out, long ago.
Vile Tribe
The Goddess Althena?
We want nothing to do with her.
Our Lord is all we need.
Vile Tribe
I heard that, long ago...
We kept many humans here in order to work the mines.
I have to wonder, though, could puny little humans really have helped out much?
Vile Tribe
I have to wonder...
If the world is heading toward destruction, will the Goddess Althena save us Vile Tribe, too?

After all, she was the one who put us all the way out here in the first place...
Vile Tribe
We've all heard the talk.
That some humans are living here, hidden away.
I've never seem them, though.
Vile Tribe
I'm just going to be direct with you...
Lord Ignatius is going to save this land, and save us too!
So please, stop your interfering and let him do it!
Peres
Flora, I'm sorry... I can't leave this place.
I can't leave the others.
But you can go with these people, go and lend them your strength.

One word of caution, though... Look before you leap, understand?
You can be reckless, at times!

Flora
That's rich, coming from you!
Don't worry, though.
I'll be careful.
Peres
To reach Ignatius' Vile Castle you need to navigate Guystole Mine, cross Sandra Desert and pass through Elda Canyon.
It is a long trip, so you'll need to be ready for anything.
Peres
Hey there... oh, Flora?
She hasn't been back here...

And I haven't seen that beastman called Rufus for a while either, now that you mention it.
I hope nothing has happened to them!
Peres
Did Flora manage to help you out?

She tries her best, I know...
But she is naive and prone to being reckless, hardly the best combination!
I'm just glad that she is back safely.
Peres
If you had the time... I would like to see you fully rested before heading out again, but I know that's not possible.
Please, promise you will take the utmost care!
Peres
I see...
Rufus met his end, did he...
But I'm sure that he had no regrets. I think I understand something of what he must have been feeling...
Peres
Flora...
There is no need to worry about me!
Just do what you have to do, as you wish to!

But I do ask one thing...
If things get too out of hand, you can always run away!
There is no shame in staying alive!
Peres
Flora...
To be honest, I didn't think you would achieve quite so much...
You have really grown up!

Flora
Hey, cut that out!
I'm blushing, look!
My face is bright red!
I'm just me, the same old me!
The same me you've always known.

Peres
OK, OK, I believe you...
Which means you are still as reckless as ever, aren't you?
Watch out for that!

Flora
I will! Don't worry!
Peres
Well then, off you go.
Oh, and one last thing...
Be sure to come back safely!
Asher
We do what we can when Zethos' men come through here, always have.
And yet none have made it through Elda Canyon.
Not a single one of them has come back alive...
Asher
Rufus?
Well, I didn't see him...
He could have just run off, you know?
I wouldn't blame him, really.
Getting a bad name beats having to fight the Vile Tribe!
Asher
You made it beyond Elda Canyon?
That makes you tougher than me, I reckon.
Don't tell anyone I said this, but... you've got a chance to forge a legend, kid.
Asher
Look on the bright side...
You're still alive, right?
Which means you'll get a second chance. So long as you're still alive, right?
Asher
Everyone is talking about you, even around here!

Kid, you're something else.
And only a little further to go!
The vein of gold is right ahead, kid! Go!
Dan
Oh yeah, I've seen that look before.
You want to know why we live out in the Frontier.

Well, long, long ago...
Humans where captured by the Vile Tribe and forced to work in the mines of the Frontier.

But some of them escaped and made this Underground Tunnel their home.
Our boss at the moment is Peres.
Dan
Just between us, like, but... I'm planning on making a secret tunnel all the way to Sungrid Bridge!

Once it is complete, well...
We'll be able to travel over to the Wrick continent without those Vile Tribe ever finding out!
Pretty cool idea, huh?
Dan
Hey, guys... I can't say this too loud, but... that secret tunnel I was talking about, to Sungrid Bridge?
It's almost finished!
Dan
What do you say?
Want to get your hands dirty with my tunnel project?
I've got enough spoons for us all!
Dan
Bad news, fellow conspirators. I finished the secret tunnel, but I must have miscalculated somewhere... when I broke the surface, sea water came rushing in!

I'm back to square one...
Well, at least as far as the tunnel is concerned.
All that dirt scooping has really buffed me up!
Paul
You are going to fight Ignatius? What?
That's stupid!
That'll never work!
Nothing good can come of it.
Just go back home.
Paul
You're going to fight Ignatius? Come on!
You'll never manage that.
My advice to you is, well...
Just go home.
Paul
Still after Ignatius, are you? I suppose you might have a chance with Rufus along.
But still, I think you're wasting your time. And life.
Paul
I told you, didn't I!
Didn't I?!
That you were no match for Ignatius...
Listen to me this time...
Just go home.
Paul
I know, I know, you're after Ignatius.
Well, I've got it by now... I won't try to stop you any more! Off you go, then!
Results follow determination, I guess.
Huldah
This Underground Tunnel is connected to Lind Village by a secret passage.
The Vile Tribe will never learn that we're here!
Huldah
Hey, you guys alone?
I thought Flora was with you!
Man, where has she got to?
Huldah
Hey, you guys.
I heard Flora is back with us, yeah?
And excited about something, too.
Huldah
You are one crazy guy... I never thought you'd do so much... get so far.
Good stuff!
Huldah
Just what I'd expect from Peres' sister.
Everyone's counting on you, Flora!
Just keep it up!
Rufus
Look, Jian... I...

Jian
....
Flora
That's just too much!
I did my best as a guide, and then I just get cast aside!
Lovely!
Flora
I want to go along... I do.
But I can't leave my brother here, and I'm sure you'll be fine if Rufus is with you.
Still, I'll be here if you need me again!
I'm sure I can help you out!
Flora
Oh no... poor Rufus...!
But you're not letting it lie, right?
You're going to get a little payback for Rufus, right?
I'm itching to do something, too!

Jian...
Come on, cheer up!
If you need my help, but just let me know!
Jian
...

Where... am I...?

Flora
Hey, brother, over here!
He's coming round!

Jian
Who... who are you?
What happened to me?

Peres
My name is Peres, and this is my sister, Flora.

Flora
You're a little crazy, aren't you?
I mean, you do seem popular with the ladies...
But Sungrid Bridge is hardly the place for you and your two girlfriends to be dating.

Jian
...?! Lucia!

Where is she? Oh no, Lucia!

Flora
Just hold your horses tiger... You'd better worry about yourself a little first.
You were fighting Gideon, alone!
You're lucky to still have all your limbs attached.

Jian
I don't care about any of that!
Lucia! Tell me where Lucia is!
Gabryel
Jian... they took her away.

Jian
...Gabi!?
You're safe!
But what do you mean... taken?

Gabryel
It was the Vile Tribe.
Like she just said, Gideon showed up.
Rufus... he was placed there to stall us.

Jian
What...?!

Gabryel
Jian, I need to ask you something.
Have you been... hiding anything from me?

Jian
Hiding something?
Like... what?

Gabryel
Lucia, Jian. Tell me.
Who... what is she?

Jian
What do you mean...?

Gabryel
Gideon answers directly to Ignatius.
If he is involved, that means this is something big.

Jian
Ignatius...? Who's he?

Flora
The leader of the Vile Tribe.
They say he's an omnipotent being, but we don't believe that.
He's a tyrant, nothing more!

Jian
So what does he want with Lucia?

Gabryel
I've been worried about that, too.
I can't think of any reason why Gideon would have orders to capture Lucia.

Jian
Oh, Lucia...!
Gabryel
Hey, hold on Jian!
Just where do you think you're going?

Jian
Where do you think?
I'm going to save Lucia!
I have to protect her!
I made a promise that I would keep her safe.
Lucia means more to me than a sister!
She means... everything to me!

Gabryel
Jian...

Flora
...

Rufus
Then... I shall lead you.

Gabryel
Rufus...?!
You can move already?

Rufus
Yes...
Thanks to you.

Jian... wasn't it?
It is also partly my fault that your companion was taken. I must atone for this, if I can.
Allow me to lead you.

I know the route to Ignatius' Vile Castle better than anyone, I believe. And humans will have a tough time passing through Elda Canyon alone.

Jian
...
Sorry, but no thanks!

Rufus
You refuse me?!

Gabryel
Jian, think about this for a minute...

Jian
You are not the only one who knows the Frontier well, Rufus.
I would like our guide to be... you, Flora, if you would be so kind!

Flora
Who? Me?
I mean, I do know the region well, but...

Peres
No need to be modest.
Why not go along?
They could use your help, I bet.

Flora
Even you think I should go...?

Jian
Flora, please... I don't care about this Ignatius guy. But I must save Lucia, no matter what!
And I'll need your help to do that.

Flora
Very well, then.
If you think I can help, I'll do my best!

Jian
Thank you...
Well, if that is settled, let's get going!
Gabi, come on!

Gabryel
Hey, hold on Jian!
Just wait a minute!

Look, Rufus, sorry about this...
Give my love to Papa if you return to Leephon, will you?

Rufus
Return to Leephon?
What do you mean...?
My Lady, just a moment!

Gabryel
Jian, I said hold on!
You're not leaving me behind!
Peres
Jian, is it...
He appears to have a dream...
A dream that may save the future for us all.

Rufus
...

Peres
Long ago, all humans had a dream...
Living beneath a bright sun, every day filled with hope for the future.

But that has been taken from us now.
Taken by the Vile Tribe... and you beasts.

Rufus
Peres, I'm not sure what...

Peres
Just do as you please.

He has gone to take back all that we have lost.
Dreams and hopes, enough for us all.

I only ask one thing of you.
Please, do not try to stop him.

Rufus
Dreams and... hope...
Flora
There is a secret passageway that leads into an unused part of the mines up ahead.
Once we get back above ground, we'll be in Lind Village.

Gabryel
Lind Village?

Flora
That's right.
It's the only Vile Tribe village in the Frontier.
Regular humans and beastmen will get into trouble just walking in there, but...

Here you go!
Take these!

Jian
What's this...?

Flora
We call them Ignatic Stones.

Gabryel
What do they do?

Flora
Apparently, they weaken the magical power of Goddess Althena.
Something like that, anyway.
Basically, it means we can move safely among the Vile Tribe.

Gabryel
I see...
Pretty vital in the Frontier, then.

Flora
That's right!
So don't lose them!

Jian
Thanks, Flora.
Let's get going!
We need to rescue Lucia as quickly as possible!

Gabryel
You're right. Let's go!
Alisa
Oh, hello there!
There are many dangers outside the town.
You'd better get some decent weapons in!
Begin
Welcome...!
I've had a sudden influx of customers recently.
...So, what do you want?
Davida
I receive items from the Caldor continent and the Wrick nowadays, too!
I hope you can find something you like!
Eliff
That ferry has really stirred up business. I expect to see you working hard!
Gamariel
Oh my stars!
Now this is a rare sight...
We don't get beasts visiting here very often!

A shame, then, that I have some bad news!
All our rooms are full, I'm afraid.
Flora
No way!
These are Ghulian Tomatoes!
My Favorite!
Where did they pick all of these?! Take me there!
Josepha
Well, I'm not so happy about all this...
That ferry starting up has doubled my workload overnight!

I clean, and clean, and clean some more... and still dirt everywhere!
I'm too busy for idle chatter, I'll tell you that much!
Gabryel
Hey...
Looks like this is the place to see around here!
Oh, wow!
They have a hot spring, too!
Jessica
Are you travelers?
How wonderful!
All thanks to the ferry, isn't it! How convenient!
Jian
Once you've seen one INN room, I guess you've seen them all. Reminds me of my room back at Cherenkov's...
Luke
Well, I can't help wondering, you know... What happened to change his mind?
Why has Beast King Zethos suddenly taken such an interest in our town?

Gabryel
...Who knows...?

Luke
Come on, think about it for a moment.
Beastmen have always thought humans small and weak...
They've taken every chance to mock us.

So... what does he hope to accomplish here now?
I've really got to wonder...
Is it actually possible for man and Beastman to get along?
Luke
This is going to sound nasty, but... I just don't think I'll ever grow to like beastmen.
But I guess the odd guy like me will help to balance things out, you know?
Gabryel
Wow... a stack of nothing but stories of Beast heroes.
So, in reality, he admires beastmen...
Marion
Have you ever heard of the Photon Plant?

Jian
Sounds powerful!

Marion
Well, actually it is just a glowing plant.
You can find it in the nearby Black Dragon Cave.

I don't want to sell it short, though...
Because of its ability to produce light, it is actually very useful in such a dark cave.
Marion
Valley of Neza is a valley of mist... I'd say watch your step, but you won't even see your feet!
Flora
Check this out!
This salad... it's glowing!
Faintly, maybe, but it is!
I couldn't eat that!
Marilyn
Welcome to Noapeace!

This town was built as a symbol of peace.
Which means no trouble or rough-stuff, get it?
Marilyn
Our Noapeace was built as a symbol of peace.
To be honest, I'm starting to think my slightly violent tendencies don't fit in here.
Nahum
There are other human settlements here on the Ghulian continent.
For instance, if you head south from here you'll come to a place called Rebric Village.
Nahum
Search the whole world!
Go on, do it!
You'll never find a place more at peace than our town.
You feel it too, right?
That's peace, baby, peace.
Rachel
You're kidding? You came here through the Meryod Cave?
Risky stuff!
A born thrill seeker, are you?

Well, you can get your kicks elsewhere now that we have the ferry.
Rachel
How about moving to our lovely town?
It's the good life, no doubt about that!
Everyone would really welcome you, I'm sure!
Rebecca
This town is the only port on the Ghulian continent!
Now we actually have a ferry, things can only get better!
The sky... no, the Blue Star is the limit!
Rebecca
Nannette worries far too much! This town is at peace, now and forever. Nothing is going to happen here!

But all she can talk about lately is the Vile Tribe, and how they might come here.
It's getting old.
Gabryel
I totally understand...
Girls can eat so much, sometimes!
I mean, it happens.
Cart loads of food.
Nannette
Well, don't say I didn't warn you!
They're all so happy about the ferry, but what about the Vile Tribe attacks which have happened on other continents?
Well?! What happens if they come here, too?!
Nannette
Rebecca is far too laid back!
Stuffing your head with this peace stuff should only be taken so far.

Who knows what's going to happen tomorrow?
No one, that's who!
She needs to get a grip on reality.
Solomon
I'm worried, to be honest.
Worried that our peaceful town could become embroiled in events we don't understand, if it continues to grow so rapidly.

I'd really like to just take a step back, for a while.
Solomon
You're planning on saving the world, are you?
Putting an end to the tyrant Ignatius?

Jian
Not quite...
I'm not capable of anything so grand.
I just want to save Lucia!
That's all.
Solomon
Jian, was it?
You're an honest, decent kid.
I'm sure you can fulfill your dreams, no matter what they are!
Flora
Sorry, am I dribbling...?
Look at that meat, though!
I'd sure like a bite of that.
Gail
We have the largest bell in the world hung here!
It was used at Cathedral of Althena to ring on special events and festival days.

But since the rumors of the Goddess being absent have started to circulate, my chances to ring the bell have decreased sharply.
Gail
I, and my forefathers for many generations, have recorded the passage of time. Come rain, gale, shine or snow, I shall continue to make my records.
Gabryel
'The Telling Toll of Tolling'
'Tolls, Tithes, Bells and Belfries'
...Incredible. What difficult books! I can't understand a word in any of them!
Naval
I'm busy as a squidling at high tide, thanks to the ferry!
If you want to ride it, you'd better hurry!
Come on, landlubbers!
Alisa
Oh, hello there!
What, you've got a package for me?
Thank you!
Begin
Welcome...
Oh, sorry!
You're on a delivery?
Great! Thanks, then!
Davida
Oh wow! Cool!
I've been waiting for this!
Finally, it's here!

This means my new range of goods is now ready to go on sale!
Come and take a look sometime!
Gamariel
What? A package?
Well, it's certainly addressed to me...
Thanks!
Nannette
Really? A package for me?
Who could it be from...
It's a nice feeling though, isn't it!
Thanks.
Solomon
A package for me, right.
Great, thank you.
I just sign here, yeah?
Hagar
A package?

Sorry, my back is out again... Just put it down somewhere, lad.
I know, I need to sign...
Just here, right?
Agag
Weapons for all ages!
You're doing well to get all the way out here!
How about a bladed memento of your trip?
Bethel
Oh gracious, you're far from home!
I've got some armor that'd suit you perfectly.
Well, come on in, take a look.
Esther
Come on in!
You're from the city, right?
Don't worry about quality, though.
We've got the best stuff, even right out here.
Jody
Hello!
Amazing you bothered to come all the way out here!
I'd better put you to work, then!
Janice
Head right for the West Moto Rainforest... and left for the East Moto Rainforest!
Either way, you can bet it's going to be raining!
Raphael
What?
You love all this 'nature'?

Interesting...
So you city dwellers call this kind of place 'nature', do you?

So... and just let me run with this... That means the cities that you live in could be called 'unnatural'?
Naomi
You look like you're up on the news...
Is it true that the ferry in Noapeace has started to run?
If so... that means we can get to the Caldor and Wrick continents, right?
Saul
Did I hear you right?
You're going to the Blue Dragon Cave, to meet the Blue Dragon?

Well then, you'd better listen carefully to this!

It's said that the Blue Dragon uses the power of three treasures to suppress and control the flow of water from a series of underground lakes, in order to conceal himself.

Which means... yeah, I can see you're digging me!
If you want to meet with old Bluey, it'd be reasonable to expect that you're going to have to take those three treasures out of play!
Saul
You need to remove those three treasures I told you about if you want to meet the Blue Dragon.
Can you remember all that?
Saul
Well?
Just as I told you, right?
Bet you're glad you hooked up with the Blue one, anyway.
Now go do what you do!
Saul
I gotta keep my cool... I've been swapping letters with this chick from Port Olbeage, and now she's gonna come all the way here to pay me a visit!

Of course, this will be the first time we meet.
I wonder what kinda girl she is?
Roxane
Have you heard of Kirlis?
He's an eccentric old guy who lives alone in Tower of Kirlis.

They say he gathers junk from across the world and uses it to build crazy stuff.
He'll be happy to take any rare but useless stuff you have off your hands.

Flora
Rare... but useless...?
Like what?

Roxane
Well...
You'd be best off to ask him yourself.
Roxane
Keep this to yourselves, but... I've heard that Kirlis is making some kind of flying machine.
Pretty unbelievable, huh?

I wonder if something made from junk, without using magic, will really be able to fly...
Tovia
Hey, you there...
Do you know of the Blue Dragon Cave?
Really...
That's a real shame.
I did so want to talk to someone...
Really...
Then allow me to enlighten you!

It's a type of cave known as a ponor...

That's a cave that draws in all the moisture from the surrounding area, meaning that the cave is always running with water.

It even takes the water from the river in this village.
Pretty impressive stuff, huh?

But that's only the start of it...

There's an underground lake which erupts periodically...
It's called the Blue Dragon Lake. And within it, stone flowers grow!

The flowers are called Anthodites... Needless to say, they are incredibly rare.
If you can find some, I am sure Kirlis would want to get his hands on them...
Really...
Then allow me to enlighten
you!

There's an underground lake which erupts periodically...
It's called the Blue Dragon Lake. And within it, stone flowers grow!

The flowers are called Anthodites... Needless to say, they are incredibly rare.
If you can find some, I am sure Kirlis would want to get his hands on them...
Tovia
Did I just hear you right?
You managed to obtain some Anthodites?
I know I told you all that stuff... But I never expected you to actually pick them!

I guess Kirlis really wants them, huh?
Tovia
Hey there!
Having heard about your little adventure, I've been unable to sit still...

So I've decided to take a little trip to the Blue Dragon Cave myself. I'm just finishing preparations.
Well then...
Allow me to enlighten you.

The Blue Dragon is worshipped here in the village as the master of all water, vital to life.

Then, there are the Blue Dragon's treasures...
They may just look like rocks, but they conceal incredible power.

The treasures prevent the lake from erupting and conceal the presence of the Dragon.
That makes it very hard to meet with him.
Tovia
So, guys...
Do you know about the Blue Dragon?
Yvonne
I'm a little afraid to ask this, but...
Is it true that the Vile Tribe have been attacking humans and beastmen, towns and villages?
Do you think we will be safe here?
Zachariah
Ignatius...
A Dragonmaster turned tyrant.

Goddess Althena is missing, and now her Dragonmaster has gone off the rails...
What's going to happen to our world?
Susan
This is Rebric Village.
We may not have buildings like your cities, we do have the best tasting water in the world.
Agag
Weapons for all ages!
What? Oh, a package?

A delivery all the way out here!
You sure are a hard worker!
I think I ought to be taking notes, the way my business is going!
Bethel
Oh gracious me, a delivery?
Aren't you a hard worker.
You've really helped an old lady out.
Esther
Wow! A package for me?
Who could it be from?
You really do deliver all the way out here, too, don't you!
Thanks!
Saul
What? A package?! Oh baby!
Could it be... could it be?!
My heart is pounding now!
It must be from... her!
Tovia
Oh, great timing!
I was just thinking how much I'd like someone to talk to.
What? A delivery?
Oh, right, I beg your pardon.
Zachariah
What, you work as a courier, do you?
Very impressive!
You're chasing your dream, and working at the same time!
Just keep it up!
Jian
Hey! Look at this!
Lucia
Alright!
We got the package back safely!

Jian
Oh yeah!
Now we won't get fired!

Lucia
Thank Goddess Althena for that.
Jian
You can thank her from me, too.
Now, we have a delivery to finish!

Lucia
That's right. Let's go!
Lucia
Hey, look at that.
Isn't it strange that only one stone step is missing?
Gabryel
Hey, look at that.
Why do you think that only one stone step is missing?
Jian
There we go, then!
The sacred stone fits perfectly in place, so now there should be 100 steps.

Gabryel
Are you sure about this...?
I can't help feeling something bad is going to happen!

Jian
Yeah, I guess we had better be ready for anything...
Kinda exciting!

Flora
Maybe we'll get attacked by that legendary giant?!
We've broken its seal!
It's free! It's coming!
Gabryel
Jian! Flora!
Cut that out!

Jian
Hold on, though...

Flora
Yeah...

Nothing's happening!

No entrance to the White Dragon Cave, no monsters, and no White Dragon.

All that build up for nothing!

Jian
...So now what?

Gabryel
Hey! I think I've got it!
Jian
You worked it out, Gabi?

Gabryel
Yeah... yeah, I have!

Flora
Well don't just keep it to yourself!

Gabryel
The sacred stone!

Flora
What about it?
Jian put it in the wrong place?

Gabryel
No, nothing like that!
The real meaning behind 'never complete the 100 stone steps'...
Could it mean that the sacred stone itself should not be moved?

Jian
I see...
And that would mean...!

Gabryel
Yes!
If something is going to happen, it's going to happen back at that pedestal!

Jian
Alright then!
Let's get back there!

Flora
Hey, hold on a moment... I don't understand!
Explain it again, OK?
Hey, you two!
Wait for me, will you?
Red Dragon Statue
Before the 'White Dragon Statue'... and before the 'Blue Dragon Statue'!
White Dragon Statue
Before the 'Black Dragon Statue'... but after the 'Red Dragon Statue'!
Black Dragon Statue
Before the 'Blue Dragon Statue'... but after the 'Red Dragon Statue'!
Blue Dragon Statue
After the 'White Dragon Statue'... and after the 'Black Dragon Statue', too!
Jian
OK!
So, we start from the 'Red Dragon Statue'!
Jian
And then...
The 'White Dragon Statue'!
Jian
Next...
The 'Black Dragon Statue'!
Jian
All right! Which means...
The 'Blue Dragon Statue' comes last!
Jian
Sounds promising!
I think we've solved it!
Jian
...But wait?

What's this?!
Something's wrong...
Perhaps there is a sequence to solving this...?
Lucia
Hey, Jian, think back!
Four Sasquatch attacked us, right?
Which means...
Lucia
OK!
That leaves... two more, right?
Lucia
Jian, are you OK?
That leaves only one more of them!
Jian
Hah! Take that!
So we've dealt with all four of them!

Lucia
Yes!
I feel a lot better now, Jian! But... where is the package?
Jian
They must have hidden it around here somewhere!
Come on, let's get searching!
Jian
Oh man!

So this must be an Armored Boar!

Lucia
I think so!
Careful, Jian!
I think he's upset with us!

Jian
You be careful too, Lucia!
Now come on!
Let's finish this!
Jian
Hold on?
Look, there's something written here.

It's no good...
What could it mean?
I can't make any sense of this...
Jian
It's no good...
It just doesn't mean anything! I can't make any sense of it.

Gabryel
It says 'Retaw No Klaw Nac Enoon,' right?
Could it be some kind of spell?

Flora
Ah ha!

Gabryel
Flora, what is it?
Have you worked it out?

Flora
Just a thought...
Try reading it backwards!

Gabryel
Backwards?
OK, well, here goes...

noonE
caN
walK
oN
wateR...!
Jian
Incredible!

Gabryel
That's quite a fancy setup.

Flora
Take a look at that.
Glad I'm along now, aren't you?
Huh? Huh? No problem!
Now, let's go!
Jian
...?!

Look at this!
What's going on here?!
Priest
May the blessings of Althena be upon you!
You are the ones who saved us from the Vile Tribe?
Thanks to you, everything is back to normal.
Priest
This is Cathedral of Althena.
May the blessings of Althena be with us all, always!
Lucia
This is... petrification magic?
Who would do such a terrible thing?!
Priest
My humblest thanks..!
Oh indeed, my most humble thanks!
We are saved, thanks to you!
Saved!
Priest
The Goddess Althena is with us all, always.
She will surely bring both blessings and peace to you, too!
Jian
What now...?

The door won't open!
Just what's going on here?
Jian
Now that is an Althena statue...! Wow!

Lucia
Hey, what's this?
Looks like something fits in here.

Gabryel
A jewel or something, perhaps?
Jian
OK... here we go.
Is that it?
Jian
But, I mean... wow.
That is one big statue.
She's... huge!
Lucia
OK... there we are.
Is that it, I wonder?
Lucia
Odd...
Nothing happened.
Gabryel
There we go!
That looks OK.
Gabryel
But this is odd...
Nothing happened?
Jian
Right!
How about this?
Jian
....Hummm....
That's strange.
Lucia
Hey... what was that?!

Gabryel
It came from upstairs!

Jian
Right, let's check it out!
Priest
I shouldn't really tell you this, but...
To tell you the truth, the Goddess Althena has not appeared before us for a number of years, now.
Priest
The only thing that can fill your pain-filled heart with happiness again is that very same heart.
Priest
Many great days lie ahead of you, I am sure.
But finding them, making them, that is the hard part.
I hope that your tomorrow is your first great day!
Priest
While I don't want to believe it...
The rumor that the Goddess Althena has been captured by the Vile Tribe is gathering momentum.
Priest
We are born twice into this world.
The first time, simply to exist...
And the second time, to live!

You have learned much, haven't you. For both you, and those important to you.
Priest
The most important thing for us is not good and evil according to the head.
It is good and evil according to the heart!
Priest
You can learn many things at the School of Magic.
But the most important thing is not the knowledge itself, but the heart of those who use it.
Priest
If you do nothing at all, then time seems to pass very slowly.

But if you try to accomplish something, anything, then there is never enough time.
Time will not wait for you, either!

In either case, time will just continue on regardless.
Priest
Even in a world that has lost everything, there is still a future.
So long as you yourself do not cast it away...
Priest
To think, the Vile Tribe attacked us here!
Oh, Goddess Althena!
Lend us your power!
Your strength!
Priest
Even if you are defeated...
Your fight shall go on!
And so long as you do not give up, then you shall never truly be defeated.
So long as you never give up!
Priest
Fight as you see best, and trust your own judgment.
If you don't, you may start to doubt yourself.
And once you find such doubts, your next fight will be even harder.
Priest
Why did the Vile Tribe come here?
What could they have been after, I wonder?
Oh, Goddess Althena!
Please, protect us!
Priest
The result alone is not important.
What is important is the bravery to accept that result!
Priest
The idea that they alone are right and everyone else is wrong is the greatest obstacle to any who aim to become a Dragonmaster.
Priest
Our magical world is growing weaker!
We can no longer ignore the facts.
Goddess Althena may indeed no longer be here...
Priest
Wounds come from fighting, to be sure.
But first, consider the bravery which that fight took. Wounds shall heal naturally, given time, but bravery is far harder to find.
Priest
I think that you may have been born to become a Dragonmaster.
In which case, you need think of nothing else.
Priest
If you find yourself lost, your choice is simple!
Always take the harder, more difficult path!
Priest
If you do not part, how can you meet again?
Priest
The path to becoming a Dragonmaster is fraught with peril.
You must overcome these dangers in order to succeed!
Don't back down!
You can do it!
Priest
I really don't know what might have happened to us if you had not come along.
May the blessings of Althena be with you!
Priest
There are only two paths that you can take.
The one you wish to walk but may fail at, or the one you can walk easily but do not wish to.
Priest
Two of you can go, and indeed three of you can go...
But I am sure that you will have to take the final step alone.
Jian
Hey look, there's a name here...
Professor Anton...?
I guess this is a classroom, then.
Professor Anton
Ah, you must be the new students!
Please, sit wherever you like. Now then, time to start the class!
Professor Anton
Hey! Where have you been, might I ask?
You can't just get up and leave class like that!
Sit back down!
This next topic will be on the test!
Professor Anton
I would love to be able to teach my class about the exploits of a hero like you!
I want to get a full textbook out of you, understand?
Lucia
Oh, look at this! A student?
Poor little thing...
We've got to save him!
Bolyai
I wasn't scared!
I tried to fight!
I'm sure of it!
But when I came to... I couldn't remember what happened... I guess I... scared them off, right?
Bolyai
I'll tell you what my dream is...
I'm going to study hard here everyday, and become one of King Zethos' knights!
What do you think?
Pretty cool, huh?
Bolyai
I know about you...
You're aiming to become a Dragonmaster, right?
That's cool... really cool!
Gabryel
This is too much...
Just too much! Unforgivable!
Come on, let's find the culprit!
Dorati
That was Gronk, no doubt about it.
Never again, I'm telling you!
Once in a lifetime is enough for an experience like that.
Dorati
I heard about Rufus.
He was our hero, and yet... I can't believe that he's gone!
Dorati
I've made up my mind.
I'm going to study harder than ever before!
And once I'm a powerful magician I'll be able to take revenge for Rufus.
Jian
It makes me wonder, though...
Just what does this Vile Tribe hope to achieve by doing this?
Amalia
You know what I think?
That the Vile Tribe was trying to get into the Chamber of Rebirth, that's what I think.
Amalia
Don't try and hide it from me! The Goddess Althena isn't here any more, is she?
She's been captured by the Vile tribe! I know it!
Amalia
Well, here's to hoping...
May the blessings of Goddess Althena be with you always!
Jian
Hey, look at this.

This professor wrote something on the board before being turned to stone!

Lucia
G... r... o... n... k!

Gabryel
Just as we thought.
But it goes to show, you should never underestimate an academic!
Professor Elman
When that monster attacked me I thought I was dead for sure! I never want to experience that again!
Professor Elman
I've had trouble sleeping since being turned to stone.
And now they say Goddess Althena is in the Vile Tribe's hands?!
Professor Elman
It is my students here, and young ones like you, who shall inherit our world.
Do your best to make it a good place!
Lucia
This breaks my heart...
Don't worry!
We'll restore you soon!
Just wait a little longer!
John
I have to sleep with the light on, now.
I can't help but imagine what might happen if those Vile Tribe fiends come back again!
John
What? You were defeated?
So who's going to protect us now?!
No! I don't wanna be turned to stone again!
John
I finally cracked.
I've applied for leave from my studies.
The undercurrent of potential danger in this place is just too much for me right now.
Gabryel
Look at this girl's desk!
She's got answers written on here.
Looks like they were going to have a test...
Lena
I want a word with you!
Thanks to your meddling, the test is going ahead as planned!
I knew being turned to stone was too good to be true.
Lena
Ignatius is a loser... sorry, Dragonmaster, right?
The guardian of the Goddess?
So why's he causing all this trouble?
Lena
I want to ask you something... I'm studying Black Magic.
It's magic so dangerous that it can wound or kill, isn't it?
Lucia
Wow!
Look at all these books!
They all look so hard to understand!
Head Librarian Jaansen
Everything is contained within the books here, every detail about our world and all the things in it.

The problem is that no matter how hard you try, you could never hope to read or remember it all.
Head Librarian Jaansen
Ah, a book to read when you are sad... I know I've got one around somewhere, but it'll be a race to find it before you cheer up, from the state of things!
Head Librarian Jaansen
How to become a Dragonmaster?
I am sure there was a book on that subject here...
Exactly where, though... shall I start digging?
Lucia
He's in the Principal's office, alone, so I guess that makes him the Principal?
Looks like they went right to the top.
Principal Zeeman
To be able to study in the very house of the Goddess Althena herself...
Can you imagine anything more wonderful?
Well, can you? Go on, try me!
Principal Zeeman
Why don't you lay aside your weapons and join us here in some study, instead?
Principal Zeeman
If you are aiming to become a Dragonmaster, you'll have to master Black Magic, won't you? Just be careful that you don't lose sight of yourself, OK?
Deuce
Raow!

Jian
Oh, ain't you a cute little thing!
Come on then, I'll play with you!
Deuce
Raow! Roaaaaw!

Lucia
All their squeaks and roars are starting to grate on my nerves!
Deuce
Raow! Raow!

Gabryel
I guess this thing is the culprit!
Time to teach it that evil doesn't pay!
Come on!
Prepare yourself, thing!
Deuce
Raaaow!

Jian
Why you...
You think you can get away with this?
Well if you do, you're wrong!
Jian
...Hey!

Curses!
We've been trapped!
Jian
Hold on...

This one seems different from those others! Watch out!

Gronk
Graow! Graow!

Lucia
Ugh, I feel ill!
Jian
It's no good..
We're trapped in here!
Jian
...What?

This is odd...
Why won't the door open?

Lucia
...
Gabryel
Rufus...!
Jian
Rufus...?
I've heard that name!
But what are you doing here?

Rufus
I think you need to check the script. That's my line...

Jian
Are you here to fight?!

Rufus
Take a moment to look around...
To get a better grip on your surroundings.

Jian
...Oh, right.

Lucia
Jian, what're we going to do?
They've got us surrounded...!

Rufus
Take her away!
Lucia
No! Get off!
Don't you touch me!

Jian
Hey! Let go of her!
What do you want with Lucia, huh? Let her go!
Jian
Lucia...!

Lucia
Jian! Help!
Jian
Lucia! Lucia!
Rufus
I'm not a big fan of such methods, but...
A human acting so heroically would disrupt our way of life here, if the public were to ever find out about it.

So, you really left us with no choice...

Gabryel
Jian...

Rufus
No choice at all...
Priest
My lady...!
Gabryel
My head's still ringing like a bell...
...hold on? Where are we?!

Priest
My lady....!
Are you injured?!

Gabryel
Could this be...?
Cathedral of Althena?

Priest
I am so glad to see you back safely!
King Zethos is most worried about you!
Please, go to see him right away!
Gabryel
...Hold on!

Jian!
Hey, Jian...!
Come on, wake up! Jian!
Priest
Let me check him...

Do not worry, my lady.
He is merely unconscious.
Please, leave him in my care.
You must meet with your father.

Gabryel
But...!

Priest
My lady, I beg of you!

Gabryel
...Very well.

Priest
Thank you, my lady.
Now please, hurry!

Gabryel
I shall.
I'm leaving Jian with you, understand?
I shall be back to check on him.

Priest
Worry not, my lady, worry not! Rather, make haste! Please!

Gabryel
...
Lucia
...Look!
Oh, Jian! There's someone injured up ahead!

Gabryel
It can't be... no, it is!
It's Rufus!

Lucia
From King Zethos' Strike Force?!
Jian
Lucia, give me a hand!
He's hurt bad!
We'd better hurry!

Lucia
Yes, of course! Don't worry!
With the help of Althena's power...

....what?!
Gabryel
What's wrong?
I'm not getting any magic!

Lucia
I'm trying! I am!
But... it's not working?!
Jian
...I feared this might happen. I've been expecting it for a while now, actually.
Althena's power is growing weaker, isn't it?

Gabryel
What do you mean?
Jian
Well, the Goddess may have actually been captured...
And even if she hasn't, her magic probably doesn't extend out to the Frontier, does it?

Lucia
Jian, I think he's trying to say something?
Please, Rufus!
We can talk later! Rest!

Jian
No, Lucia... Rufus, go on!
Rufus
R... run... away...
Th... is... a trap...!

Jian
Quick! Go!

Lucia
Help!
Jian
Lucia! No!

NO!
Ignatius
And you are sure about this, are you, Jude?

Jude
Yes...
No doubt, Master, that girl is the one.

Ignatious
Cursed Althena!

Jude
We'd normally have no trouble snatching one pretty little girl away, my Master...
But she was with the daughter of Zethos, Master.
We didn't want to go stirring that one up, no we didn't.

Ignatius
The Beast King, is it.
I still have... matters to settle with him, too.
But now is not the time.

I had thought to occupy Cathedral of Althena in order to draw her out, but it looks like that is no longer necessary...
Not when we have captured Althena herself!

Jude
Yes, Master.
It's to my shame that I didn't realize sooner that this girl was Althena's chosen disguise.

While Althena has been gone, I've been spreading lies among beasts and humans, whispering that we have captured Althena. Now these rumors shall finally become reality!

Ignatius
You have done well.
Those pathetic beasts and measly humans fear Althena's absence more than anything.
We must continue to make use of this!

Jude
As you say, Master.
And to think, she crossed Sungrid Bridge of her own accord! We couldn't have planned it better!

Ignatius
Indeed!
Finally, the time has come.
The time of awakening!
We must put that girl to work...
As the Goddess Althena!

With Althena under our power we shall be able to take Cathedral of Althena without needing complex strategy.
And once we accomplish that... That mewling pup Zethos shall kneel before me!

Jude
Yes, Master.
It shall all be as you say.

Ignatius
You can grovel more later, Jude.
For one problem remains... breaking the barrier around the Chamber of Rebirth.

Using the Chamber is the only way to reawaken Althena, so we must get inside... which means the Four Dragons now stand in our way.
The Dragons are quite tough... But I think there might be a better way...
Jian
What's this?
It looks like a big hole...?

Gabryel
Jian, careful! Don't get too close to the edge!
You don't know what might be living down there!
Jian
I get it now!
This is the hole that Aaron talked about!

Gabryel
Hey, look at that!
What could it be?
Something is shining down there!

Jian
Could... could it be?!
Jian
The Red Dragon...!

Red Dragon
Greetings, child of man.
Am I perhaps the first dragon you have met?

Jian
You are... madam...?

Red Dragon
And so formal!
Fear not, for though I could pluck you up and eat you, I am not about to do so!
Instead... I am wondering what has brought you here?

Jian
Of course... I have come to undertake the Dragon's Trial.

Red Dragon
Well, well!
And you think yourself up to my challenge?

Jian
...I believe so.

Red Dragon
Regrettably, that is not going to be possible.

Jian
But why...?
If I may be so bold...
Am I unworthy?

Red Dragon
That is not the problem, child of man.
If you wish to become a Dragonmaster, you must know about Ignatius, do you not?
That he has turned against the Goddess in rebellion?

Jian
I do...

And that is why I must become a Dragonmaster, the same as Ignatius!
In order to defeat him!

Red Dragon
We dragons, as servants of the Dragonmaster, cannot turn against Ignatius.

Furthermore, we cannot allow the existence of anyone who would threaten our master.
It follows that we cannot aid anyone who wishes to become such a threat.

Even if he is the leader of a rebellion against the Goddess, the Dragonmaster means everything to us dragons.
Gabryel
Hold on a moment!
So you're saying that you don't care what happens to this world?!

Red Dragon
I am not the one who decides such things.
My role is merely...
To serve the Dragonmaster, the master of us dragons.
Please, leave this place.

Flora
Oh, well, that's very high and mighty of you!
Jian, forget this jumped up lizard!
Let's get out of here!

Jian
No, Flora, we can't just leave!
I have to defeat Ignatius and rescue Lucia. I have to!
Which means I have to pass the Dragon's Trial. I can't leave here until I have!

Gabryel
Oh, Jian...

Jian
Red Dragon...
You leave me no choice!
I shall defeat you!

Red Dragon
Well said!
But remember what I said about being able to eat you!
And my Black Magic is quite something too!

Do you still want to fight me?

Jian
What do you think?
Come on!
Red Dragon
...Congratulations, Jian.

Jian
Congratulations... for what?

Red Dragon
You have passed.

Jian
You mean... this was the Trial?!

Red Dragon
That is correct.
A Dragonmaster requires unwavering willpower in the face of all adversity.

You have overcome the Trial of the Red Dragon and proven yourself worthy to receive my powers.
I acknowledge your strength and shall bestow my Black Magic upon you.

Jian
Black Magic...?

Red Dragon
Magic that can drain the very life from weakened or injured creatures.
If used for evil, as Ignatius is now doing, it has the potential to dominate the world.

A very dangerous branch of magic, but then that depends upon the intent of the one who wields it.

Jian
So that's what Black Magic is...

Red Dragon
Finally... one more thing...
Why do you wish to become a Dragonmaster?
Why do you offer yourself up for the role of protector of the Goddess and this world?
Jian
....

Red Dragon
Tell me, why?

Jian
Well, it's kinda hard to...

Red Dragon
Tell me, please!

Jian
I want to... protect...

Red Dragon
Protect...?
What? This world?
Or perhaps... the Goddess Althena?

Jian
Lucia... I want to become a Dragonmaster to protect Lucia! That is the reason why I must succeed!

Red Dragon
And you need strength to do this?

Jian
...I believe so.

Red Dragon
Well, remember this, child of man...
A reliance upon strength, upon battle, shall always create a winner and a loser.

You have won, and thus I have lost.
And, just as I am on the verge of doing now, the loser shall vanish forever from this world.

Can you continue to fight, bearing this knowledge?
Jian
Re... Red Dragon!!

Flora
Oh, Jian...

Jian
I can! I shall! I must!
I will fight on, and save Lucia!
Tell me, what's so wrong with that?! Answer me, Red Dragon!

Gabryel
So... this is the Dragon's Trial...

Jian
Answer me, Red Dragon...!

Red Dragon!
Gabryel
Jian, is this it?

Jian
Yeah, I think so...
The Red Dragon Cave.

Flora
Which means...
This is the place to meet the Red Dragon.

Jian
I certainly hope so, or somebody's going to have some answering to do.
Well, let's go!
Jian
Anyway... I'd better find Lucia, quick!
She's probably about ready to boil over!
Jian
Oh, Lucia!
Where have you been?
Jian
Hold on...!
Now I remember!
We were going to meet up at Fountain Square!
Lucia
Jian, come on...
We'd better get this package to Gad's Express right away, or we'll end up being late with the delivery!
Lucia
Right, so all we need to do is take this package to Gad's Express in Perit Village, correct?

That means we'll have to go through the Thieves' Woods, though...
Do you think our current gear is up to it?
Jian
Well, he ran off toward Perit Village.
So let's go there first, OK?
Someone might be able to help us.
Lucia
We're looking for information, right?

That's why we came here to Perit Village.
And while we're here, why don't we go and talk to the village chief?
Lucia
Enos looked pretty wound up, didn't he!
Something is going on in Thieves' Woods...

Say, Jian...
Why don't we go and check it out for ourselves?
Jian
I'm starting to get this, now...
Everyone is upset because it's too dangerous to pass through Thieves' Woods any more...

Lucia
I'll tell you what we should do, Jian...
Let's go see Enos, the village chief, again!
Lucia
A Sasquatch?
Jian, could that be the thief?

Jian
Yeah, I think it is.
The fiend who took our package!

Well then, that means we're ll done here!
Let's head on over to Delrich Temple and deal with him!
Lucia
Hey, Jian, I've been thinking...
Did you notice those four dragon statues at the entrance to Delrich Temple?

Jian
Yeah, but... what about them?

Lucia
I'm not sure... Just something about them suggests some kind of puzzle to me.
Jian
There's something here at Delrich Temple, something we have to solve to proceed...
Well, that's not stopping me!
We are coming for you, Sasquatch!
Jian
I think maybe that did the trick...
All right then!
Sasquatch, I'm gonna make you pay!
Jian
That Sasquatch must have hidden our package around here somewhere!
All we need to do is find it!
Lucia
Thank the Goddess!
We've got the package back safely!

Jian
I didn't see the Goddess helping out, but anyway...
Let's get back to Perit and deliver this to Gad's Express! Come on!
Lucia
Oh, hold on...!

We'd better go and tell Enos how things worked out.
I bet he's worried about us!
Lucia
So, Jian...
You really want to go to Healriz?

Jian
Yep! I've made up my mind!
There's something that I have to do there... no matter what! Come on then, Lucia!
Off we go!
Lucia
So, Jian...
What is it you want to do in Healriz?

Jian
OK, I guess I should tell you...
You know there's going to be a grand tournament held there soon, right?

Lucia
Yes, but... Hold on, Jian!
You're not planning on taking part?!
Lucia
Marcella, wasn't it?
What do you think, Jian?

Jian
Let's go and see what she has to say!
Lucia
Quite funny if you think about it!
Honey, honey!
Doesn't really suit his image, though, does it?

Jian
I guess not.
Still, we need Insector honey from Roland Forest, right?
And please, stop saying honey twice!
Lucia
Oh Jian, honey...
You found the honey! Great!
Lucia
No way, Jian! No way!
Just what was all that about?
I'm not letting you take part in any tournament!
You'll get hurt for sure!
Maimed, even!

Jian
Armored Boar, is it...
Well all right then!
Back to Roland Forest we go!

Lucia
...have to watch you get
crippled from...
Hey! Are you even listening to me?!
Jian
That Armored Boar is somewhere around this area, no doubt about it.
All we have to do is root him out!
Lucia
Good work, Jian!
We've beaten the Armored Boar!

Jian
Yep, piece of cake!
Now we just need to report back to Leoncavallo.
Lucia
Jian... I do understand how you feel, but... are you really going to fight in the tournament?

Jian
Yes, I am... I just have to do this, Lucia. It's very important.
Don't worry, OK? I'll be fine!
Lucia
Why you... total tinder head!
You can never swallow your pride, can you!

Jian
That's right!
This old tinder head is burning now!
To San Coliseum, on the double!
Gabriel
If we're headed for Leephon City, we have to take the ferry from Port Searis!
You do know your way home, don't you?
Lucia
I wonder what all the fuss is about?
Sounds like something's happened at Port Olbeage...
Jian
Something is definitely up...
Let's go to the checkpoint and, eh... 'check' it out!
Gabryel
Say, I've an idea...
Why don't we try talking to Carducci again?
Well, let's go!
Jian
The Vile Tribe at Cathedral of Althena...

Sounds nasty!
I don't know how dangerous this is going to get.
You two can wait here, if you like.

Gabryel
I'm sorry, are you talking to me?

What do you think this claw is for, bub? Trimming the verge?
My father raised me to never run from a fight!
But you can stay behind, if you like.
Jian
Cathedral of Althena... I'm starting to get a bad feeling about this!
Jian
It's worse then we thought!
All the people at Cathedral of Althenahave been turned to stone!
Jian
Right, of course!
We need to fit something into that massive Althena Statue.
Well, we'd better start searching for it... whatever it is!
Jian
Looks like it fits!
So now we need to defeat the Deuce and recover all four stones!
Gabryel
I just hope things continue to go smoothly.

Lucia
Yeah, me too...
Jian
OK, big trouble ahead!
We'd better be ready for this!
Jian
And there we have it...
As tough as the rumors made him out to be.

Lucia
Wait...
Look, Jian!

Gabryel
I think that door might be a way out!
Lucia
Jian...
What should we do now?

Jian
I was just about to ask you the same thing...
Jian
OK!
First, let's find Gabi.

Lucia
Right! Good idea!
Gabryel
Pick up your feet, slow poke!
We're headed for Sungrid Bridge, right?
So let's get going, already!

Lucia
That's a relief, anyway.
Gabi seems to have cheered up!

Jian
Yeah...
Although I think maybe she is a little too energetic, now..
Jian
Here we go!
Once we cross Sungrid Bridge we'll be in the Frontier!
Get ready for anything!
Let's go!
Flora
Once we get back above ground, we'll be in Lind Village.
It's the only Vile Tribe village in the Frontier.
The Ignatic Stone will keep us safe, so let's get going!
Flora
I don't know what's happening in the Frontier...

We'd better stock up on supplies and equipment here, while we can.
Even once we are through Guystole Mine, we'll still have to cross Sandra Desert...
Flora
But still, I can't quite get over you two!

Gabryel
Huh? What do you mean?

Flora
A human and beast dating!
You're the first I've met...
But you make a lovely couple.
Gabryel
A... couple...?!

Are you kidding?!
Me and Jian?!
Whatever gave you that idea?!

Flora
Oh... sorry, I just thought...

Gabryel
And anyway, what about Lucia, huh?
Jian and Lucia are...

Jian
...Lucia...
Flora
...What's wrong?

Gabryel
Oh, no...
It's nothing.
Well, let's head for Sandra Desert!
Flora
OK!
No need to waste any more time around here. Let's hurry on to Sandra Desert!
Flora
Just a little further!
Once we cross the Sandra Desert, we will be at Elda Canyon!

Although... I have to admit, this is all new to me, too!
Jian
I'll bet Gabi is fuming...
And I guess I was unfair to Flora, after she guided us all the way here.

But... I had no other choice!
I can't put either of them in any further danger...
Rufus
Well then, easy enough.
Pass through Elda Canyon and there's Vile Castle.

Jian
Good... I'm finally here!
Hold on, Lucia!
Rufus
Vile Castle...

Jian
I just hope Lucia is really in there!

I'm coming, Lucia...!
Gabryel
Say, Jian...
Do you think Rufus is OK all alone?

Jian
I'm worried too, Gabi...
But we need to worry about ourselves, too!
Now, stick close to me!
Gabryel
Well then, let's get this package delivered!
Gad is waiting!

Jian
...Yeah.
Jian
Gabi...!
We need to meet with the Beast King, right away!

Gabryel
I know, I know!
Papa will be in Zethos Castle. No need to get your fur all ruffled up... or whatever humans do.
Gabryel
Titus Lauren, living in Healriz, huh...
Jian, do you know this guy?

Jian
Nope, not at all...
Just who is he, I wonder?
Flora
Let's get down to business!
We need to pass through Roland Forest and then cross Barrel Desert!
That's where the Red Dragon Caveis!

Gabryel
Impressive...
So you know this region too, Flora?

Flora
Not quite.
Actually, I asked someone in that town back there.
I've never been here before in my life!
Flora
No need to over-think this...
Just leave it to me!
Everything will be fine!
Now, to cross Barrel Desert!
For beyond lies our goal, the Red Dragon Cave!
Flora
Oh! I just remembered something else!
I was told to watch out for ant lions in Barrel Desert.
We'd better watch our footing, then. Tread carefully!
Flora
I guess I already know the answer, but...
Are we really going to see the Red Dragon?
I really hate hot places!
Could I sit this one out?
Gabryel
Jian, maybe it's too early to say this, but...
Do you really think the Red Dragon is in here?

Flora
I reckon he is!
Otherwise, what's this red hot lava cave doing here?!
Flora
These Dragon Trials are actually a lot harder than I thought they'd be!

And we have to do three more of them?!
I'm not sure if I'll make it...

Gabryel
Of all the things to hear now... honestly!
This is only the beginning, bow girl! So no more jawing!
Off we go to meet the White Dragon!
Jian
I'm sure the key to finding the White Dragon Cave is somewhere at Delrich Temple.
I'm thinking we may have to complete the stone steps in order to proceed...

Flora
So let's get on with it!
Gabryel
Of course!
How dumb have we been!
If anything has happened, I'm sure it will be back at that plinth!

Jian
OK!
So let's get back there!
Jian
This is it! Found it!

Gabryel
Finally, we're going to meet the White Dragon!

Flora
Ah, but first comes the White Dragon Cave... I just hope he lives near the entrance!
Gabryel
Well then...
What's next, Jian?

Jian
OK...
So, remember what Titus said.
There are Four Dragons to the north, south, east and west of Cathedral of Althena.

We've already passed the Trials of the Red in the west, and the White in the north.
So that leaves us with the Black in the east and the Blue in the south.

Flora
OK, I'm following you so far...
Which means we have to cross to the Ghulian continent, right?

Gabryel
Right. And that means passing through the Meryod Cave!

Flora
Huh? Never heard of it!

Jian
I have...
Comprised of the West Meryod Cave and East Meryod Cave, it's about as dangerous a place as there is in these parts.

Flora
As dangerous a place... as there is?!

Gabryel
I guess that means we need to be absolutely sure about this trip to the Ghulian continent.

Jian
Let's do it!
Flora
The Meryod Cave...
It actually sounds like fun!
Hurry up, then!

Gabryel
Sweet goddess, girl... I think your quiver is a few arrows short.
Flora
Right, I know this!
After the West Meryod Cave comes the East Meryod Cave, right?
I'm not going to forget this!
Flora
So, once we get through the East Meryod Cave, we'll be on the continent of Ghulian, correct?

Gabryel
That's right...
We can start by taking a break in Noapeace!
Flora
Noapeace... what an odd name!
I'm getting even more excited now!
I can be excited now, can't I? Aren't you?

Gabryel
Flora!
Do we have to have words?
This isn't a pleasure trip, understand?

Flora
I'm not an idiot, Gabi, OK!
I just want to see new places!
Flora
Photon Plant, huh?

Gabryel
Apparently found in the Black Dragon Cave.

Flora
Do you think, perhaps... that the Black Dragon might live in the Black Dragon Cave?

Jian
...You know, he just might.

Flora
Well then, let's get going!
Black Dragon Cave, full steam ahead!

Gabryel
That sounds like the next step.
Which means we have to pass through Valley of Neza!
Flora
Let me get this straight, then. The Black Dragon Cave is beyond Valley of Neza, right?

Gabryel
That's what we heard.
All we can do now is go and check it out!
Flora
Are we going to be able to make it though...?
This Black Dragon Cave is so dark inside!

Gabryel
We just need to find a source of light.
Gabryel
I see...
A Photon Plant can light our way!

Flora
Great! That's plant power!
Flora
Congratulations, Jian!
The Black Dragon's Trial is over with!

Gabryel
Yes, good job...
Which leaves only the Blue Dragon.

Jian
Thanks, you two!
I'd never have made it this far without...

Gabryel
Hah!
What's this, all of a sudden?

Flora
Gabi's right, that's not like you, Jian!
We are all in this together, right?
Of course we're going to help you out!
Jian
Flora, Gabi...

Gabryel
OK, OK, group hug over.
So, Jian, what next
Jian
I've got it planned out already.
You saw the big forest south of Valley of Neza, yeah?

Gabryel
You mean the East Moto Rainforest?

Jian
It looks like we're going to have to pass through that forest in order to reach the Blue Dragon and the final trial.

Flora
Oh yeah, and I know what you are about to say.
'Who knows what dangers we may face?'
Blah blah blah... let's get going already!

Gabryel
I wouldn't have used those exact words... But it looks like our minds are made up!
So, what are we hanging around here for?
To the East Moto Rainforest!
Flora
Right, this one's easy...
We're headed for the East Moto Rainforest, aren't we?
Flora
I just had a thought...
If we're going into the East Moto Rainforest, do you think we will need an umbrella or parasol or something?

Jian
Parasol...?

Flora
Huh?
What's wrong, Jian?
The look on your face could depress a clown!

Gabryel
Flora...!

Flora
What?!
Hey, what did I say?
Flora
Say...
Don't you think Rebric Village is a beautiful place?
So different from the Frontier where I grew up...
Flora
Say...
Can the Blue Dragon really be found just by wandering around, do you think?

Gabryel
You're right... We should gather more information in Rebric Village, I think.
This is a waste of time.
Gabryel
So, to get to the Blue Dragon Cave, we have to pass through the West Moto Rainforest.

Flora
And to meet the Blue Dragon we have to remove the three treasures...
That's what that funky guy said, right?

Gabryel
Yes, and we also have to get to the Blue Dragon Cave in the first place.
OK Jian, what the next move?

Jian
Do you even have to ask?

Flora
I certainly didn't!
Let's get going!
Gabryel
Right... to get to the Blue Dragon Cave, we have to pass through the West Moto Rainforest.
Jian
...

Flora
What's the frown for, Jian?
Something weighing on your mind?

Gabryel
The same thing as on mine, most likely.
Once the Blue Dragon Trial is over, you will become a Dragonmaster, won't you Jian?

Jian
I haven't decided that yet...
All I want is the strength...

Flora
To save Lucia!

...right?

Jian
...That's right.
Flora
We'd better start looking for these treasures then!

I don't know, though...
Something about this Blue Dragon Cave is really creeping me out... It's all a little too mysterious for me!
Jian
Well then, now we're here, let's start searching for the stones Saul told us about.

Gabryel
Once we remove all three of them...

Flora
We will be able to meet the Blue Dragon! Cool!
Flora
Hooray!
That's all of the stones removed.
Now we can meet the Dragon, right? Finally!

Gabryel
That's what the villagers said...
But no one told us where...

Jian
All we can do is search, then! He's got to be somewhere here in the Blue Dragon Cave.
We'll meet him eventually, just gotta do the leg work!
Flora
What are we going to do?!
We'll never get there in time!

Jian
Don't give up!
Don't even talk like that!
There has to be a way...
Think!

Gabryel
Well, we can't do anything here...
Let's see what they have to say in Rebric Village.

Someone might have some useful information!
I'm sure we'll find a way, Jian! So come on!
Gabryel
Anthodites...?

Jian
Flowers said to grow in Blue Dragon Lake.

Flora
OK, let's get what we're all thinking out in the open...
You want to go to the Blue Dragon Cave to get these flowers?
You've got to be kidding!

Jian
It looks like that's our only choice...
We don't have any other leads. Sorry, Flora...
Gabryel
Anthodites...?

Jian
Flowers said to grow in Blue Dragon Lake.

Flora
Hold on... could they be the stone flowers that old crackpot Kirlis was cackling about?
Jian
Of course!
You might be onto something there, Flora!
The flowers growing in Blue Dragon Lake must be the stone flowers that Kirlis asked for!

Flora
OK, let's get what we're all thinking out in the open...
You want to go to the Blue Dragon Cave to get these flowers?
You've got to be kidding!

Jian
It looks like that's our only choice...
We don't have any other leads. Sorry, Flora...
Jian
Of course!
That could be it!
The flowers growing in Blue Dragon Lake must be the stone flowers that Kirlis asked for!

Flora
Well, we definitely did see something flowering when we were in the Blue Dragon Cave.

Hold on!
I know what you're thinking!
You want to go to the Blue Dragon Cave to get these flowers?
You've got to be kidding!

Jian
It looks like that's our only choice...
We don't have any other leads. Sorry, Flora...
Jian
OK!
We've got our hands on an Anthodite!

Flora
Excellent!
Now we take this to Kirlis, right?

Gabryel
That's the plan... I just hope he's willing to help us!

Jian
Well, keep your fingers crossed!
We need to get back to Vile Castle and stop Ignatius as quickly as possible!
Flora
Hey look, a note says...
We should go up to the roof!
Jian
Incredible...
If the XR45 Sakura really does fly, we can get straight to Vile Castle!
Finally, a real chance to save Lucia!
Flora
Now he wants a Levitation Stone!
Kirlis is a little odd, too, isn't he...

I'm afraid I won't be able to believe the stone can make anything fly until I see it with my own eyes!

Gabryel
Oh, Flora...
You must really be scared of the thought of flying.

Flora
But we are still going, aren't we?
To this Negri Ocean Lab place, or wherever it is!
Flora
What?! You think I'm scared?
You think a trip in that airship scares me or something?

Look, I'm all over that now!
No problem! I'm fine, really!
Not scared at all!

Gabryel
Hey, no need to get so stressed!
Did I say anything?
You can be so weird sometimes, Flora!
Jian
...

Gabryel
What's up, Jian?
You look kinda down.
Jian
We have to hurry...
Hurry before it's too late!
I must stop Ignatius... before Lucia is lost forever!
Jian
Face it with a smile or tear in your eye, for this is the final battle!

I'm going to put a stop to Ignatius and all of his plans. Lucia is coming home with me!
Gabryel
Jian...
You kept Rufus' sword, all this time?

Jian
...Yes.

Gabryel
Thank you...
Rufus was our hero, the hero of all the beastmen.
You did a great thing.

Jian
But that's not why I did it!

That's not it, don't you see?
Rufus was fighting for us!
To keep us safe!
He was our comrade... our friend...

This is not merely about revenge... It's more than just getting payback for him!
I don't know, it's hard to explain...

But all I can say is this.
The sword of our friend has, as you can see, saved us again.

Gabryel
Jian...

Flora
Whoa...!
Jian, that was way cooler than I expected from you!
Jian
This doesn't feel right...
Where's Lucia? Where?!

Gabryel
Calm down, Jian!
If Lucia isn't in the Chamber of Rebirth...

Flora
It means she has either already been reborn... or that nothing has happened yet! Hey, there's still a chance, then!

Jian
...I hope you're right.
Jian
I wonder... was this really for the best...?
Jian
Lucia...
Jian
...!?

Ignatius...

Gabryel
What?
What's wrong, Jian?

Jian
I can feel it...

I'm sensing Ignatius... so strong!

He's here!
I'm sensing him from the Chamber of Rebirth!
Luciaaaaaaaaaaa!!!
Jian
Well, thanks for everything, Flora.
Only Elda Canyon remains and then I'll finally be at Vile Castle.

You've brought us far enough.
Gabi, could you please see Flora safely back to Lind?

Gabryel
Back to the village...?
Jian, don't tell me you plan on going alone!

Jian
...

Gabryel
No way!
I'm going with you!
How're you planning on fighting alone?!
You won't even make it inside! You can't just send me packing now, OK?

Flora
Which means... I'm going too.

Jian
I'm happy to hear you say that...
But you'll only get in my way. I have to carry on alone.
I'm sorry.

Gabryel
What was that...?
Get in your way, will I?

Well, Jian, what a burden I must have been!
So good of you to have put up with me for so long!
Flora, we're obviously just unwanted baggage. Let's go.

Flora
...OK...

Gabryel
Jian, you utter moron!
This is it between us!
Gabryel
Huh, look at that!
Off he goes, without even saying goodbye.
Pretty cold.

Flora
...
Caucus
Hah, take a look at that.
The stupidity of humans, for all to see!
You've got some guts, kid, strolling right into Ignatius' domain.
But you're still stupid.

Jian
What have you done with Lucia?!

Caucus
Lucia?
Can't say that name rings any bells.
Hey, you, heard anything?

Orcus
Not a thing...
What's she to you, anyway, weakling? Your pretty little human girlfriend?
Or maybe a furry beast bi...

Jian
Silence!
I swore to protect her... which means every last one of you is going to pay for what you've done!

Morus
I am so very close to being scared, honest.
Take a look about, buddy.
You should be starting to feel like a rat in a bag right about now.

You still think you're gonna make us pay?
All of us?

Jian
...I'll take as many of you with me as I can!

Orcus
Like he said, you got guts, but you're dumb.
You think you can take even one of us? You're dreaming.
Now wake up. Its time to die.

Jian
....!
Caucus
...Ouch!
Orcus
Huh?! What just happened?

Morus
Where...
Where did that sword come from?!

Orcus
Now I want a little payback myself!
Come on out! Show yourself!
Jian
...But why?

Rufus
Jian... I don't want to be a burden, but perhaps I could join in?
Gabryel
He's not stupid enough to turn us down this time.
Right, moron boy?

Jian
Ga... Gabi?
What are you doing here?

Gabryel
You can thank me later, after we've dealt with the rest of these goons!
Rufus, take that side!
Jian, pull yourself together!
You're with me!

Jian
Gabi...!
Caucus
Can't say I'm surprised to see you again, Rufus.
Shame. For a while, I really thought you were dead.

Rufus
Well, my apologies... I do profess to a talent for not getting killed.

Morus
That's nothing compared to my talent for killing!
I'm gonna make sure your head is completely off this time!
No mistakes!

Rufus
Try your best, but I doubt it will be enough.
You see, I don't want to die.
Jian
Gabi, are you OK?

Gabryel
Yeah, I'm fine!
How about you, Jian?
All in one piece?

Jian
Yeah, of course!

Rufus
...

Jian
Rufus, look...

Rufus
Say no more, Jian.

I know you don't think much of us beastmen.
I can live with that.
But...

Gabryel
Enough already!
You really think that matters any more?

We're friends now! Comrades!
Does human this or beast that really make any difference?
No! Not at all!

Rufus
...Friends?

Jian
...Comrades?

Gabryel
This is not the best place to be sitting around, either!
Pick yourselves up or I'm leaving you behind!
Now come on!
Rufus
...

Jian
Gabi...
Jian
No!
I've been trapped?!
Rufus! Can you hear me?!
Rufus!
Gabryel
What the...!
Jian, look!

Rufus
Gideon!

Jian
That's Gideon?

Rufus
I'm afraid so...
A true demon, even among the Vile Tribe. Needlessly violent and super powerful...
We don't stand a chance without a solid plan!

Jian
I'm supposed to have fought him myself, but... I don't really remember it...

He's responsible for taking Lucia...!
Another one of these monsters I can't forgive!
Looks like its time to settle this!

Rufus
No, wait.
Leave this to me.
Jian, you guys go on ahead.

Jian
But... Even you can't fight him alone!

Rufus
Are you forgetting?
I can't be killed!
I'll be fine! I always am.
I'll catch up with you, don't worry!

Jian
...

Rufus
So, what are you staring at?
Get going!
You're only a step away from Ignatius.
Time to save Lucia, right?

Jian
Rufus... thank you!

Rufus
You can count on me!
I'll keep Gideon right here.
He killed many of my comrades, don't forget. This is a good chance to avenge them, too!
Go on then! Off you go!

Gabryel
Be careful, Rufus!

Rufus
I'm always careful.
The same to you, my lady.

Gabryel
Rufus...
Rufus
Right then...
Shall we kick things off?

Gideon
..D...i...e...

Rufus
You always did have a way with words.
Let's see what you have to say about this, then!
Jian
Lucia!
Where are you?
Answer me, Lucia!
Ignatius
Welcome to my humble abode.
But you are quite the barbarian, aren't you?
Forcing your way in here, ignoring your host, and shouting your lungs out for all to hear.

Jian
...Host?

Ignatius
Yes!
For you stand before Ignatius!

Jian
You?!
You're Ignatius?!

Ignatius
Oh, you seem surprised?
Did you think I would be some three headed monster, perhaps? An ogre with one eye?
Gideon
...B...a...c....k...

Ignatius
Ah, my Gideon, there you are.
A pleasure, as always.

Jian
...No...!

Ignatius
Oh dear, what's this?
Gideon appears to still have bits of your friend between his teeth!
He is clutching something... let's see...

Jian
Oh, Rufus...!

Ignatius
Here, you can have this toothpick back. A parting gift from a precious friend, no?
Come, take it.
Gabryel
Jian, that sword...

Jian
I did not want this to happen... Ignatius!
Just give Lucia back!
Ignatius
You upstart...
So full of vigor, aren't you.
But vigor alone is not enough to defeat me. And your lack of refinement is starting to grate on my nerves.

Jian
Refinement?! This, from you?!

Ignatius
Oh, a kidnapping here or there. So what?
Still, this is truly a fine sword.
Here, as I said, take it!
Ignatius
You couldn't even scratch me with that, let alone kill me, whelp.
Now, I'm busy. Goodbye.

Jian
Wait!
Return Lucia to me!

Ignatius
Lucia, Lucia, Lucia.
Learn some new lyrics!
Althena really has you duped, doesn't she?

Jian
Duped?

Gabryel
Althena...?
What has the Goddess got to do with this?

Ignatius
But Goddess, oh sweet Goddess! You may fool these simpletons, but not I!
You sweet, sweet fool!

The fate of the Goddess, and of this world, now rest in the palm of my hand. Finally, both where they belong!
And there is nothing you can do about it!
Jian
Draw your sword! Fight me!

Ignatius
Whelp...
What did I just say?
Vigor alone is only going to get you killed!

Jian
Give me back my Lucia!

Ignatius
No, I won't. Go home!
Why hurry to your death?
Do you really believe that a human and a beast, such a motley pair, can defeat me?
Ignatius
Don't say I didn't warn you, then!
I'll show you now just how small and pathetic a creature you really are!

Jian
Silence! Lucia...
Return Lucia to me!

Or die!
Althena
Halt! You must not kill them!

Ignatius
...What?

Althena
You must not kill these mortals.

Ignatius
Althena! Why are you here?

Althena
Did you not make me a promise, Dragonmaster?
A promise that you would cease your killing...?

Ignatius
Huh... Well, remember this moment, whelp.
One more swing, and you would have been dead.

Jian
Lucia... is that you...?

Ignatius
What are you doing?

Althena
I shall send them to Cathedral of Althena...

Ignatius
As you wish, Goddess!
I just hope you aren't around next time.

Jian
Lucia...
That's you, isn't it... Lucia? Please... say... something...

Althena
...
Gideon
...E...a...t...

Jian
Oh great!

Gabryel
It's Gideon again!

Flora
Whoa...
That is one ugly creature!

Gideon
...E...a...t...!

Jian
Rufus! I shall avenge you!

Gabryel
Jian, that sword?!

Jian
Yes... Rufus' blade!
I've been keeping it for this very day!
Gideon, eat this!
Gideon
...P...a...i...n...!

Flora
Alright!
Straight through him!

Gideon
...E...a...t...!

Jian
You can't be serious!

Gabryel
He's still coming!
Flora
I don't believe it!
But he must be hurt badly, right?
I mean, he ripped the sword from his own body!

Gabryel
What shall we do, Jian...?
Now Gideon is using Rufus' sword!

Jian
Rufus...
Lend me strength! Please!
The strength to defeat your enemy!

Gabryel
Jian...! I'm here, too!

Flora
Don't forget me!

Jian
Revenge!
Jian
What is this place?

Gabryel
Could it be...
The Chamber of Rebirth?

Flora
The Chamber...

Jian
Lucia...?!
Gideon
...N...o...t.....o...v...e...
..r...y...e...t...

Gabryel
This is some kind of joke, right?

Flora
I don't think so!
It all feels a little too real to me!

Jian
Watch out, you two!
He looks different from before!

Gideon
...D...i...e...!

Flora
Well...
Here he comes!

Jian
We can't avoid it...
So let's finish him, once and for all!
Jian
Ignatius, where are you!
Show yourself!

Oh, no way!
Gideon
...K...i...l...l...!

Gabryel
I can't believe this guy!
Just how many times do we have to fight him?

Flora
He's so ugly, too!
I just want to run away!

Jian
There's only one thing for it! Don't stop hitting until you are sure he's dead!
Jian
Gabi, Flora, are you OK?

Gabryel
Just about...

Flora
Me too!

Jian
Ignatius, come out!
I know you're watching, Ignatius!
Lucia!!

Ignatius
I'm right here...
Jian
Ignatius...!
Ignatius
I should thank you, I suppose, whelp.
Due to your kindly releasing the Four Dragons, I can finally achieve my goal.

Jian
Lucia...

Ignatius
Now, let me introduce you...
Reawakened, divine again, my Althena!

Jian
Lucia...!
No! We're too late?!
Lucia, say something!
Goddess Althena
I am Althena...
The omnipotent ruler of this world.
You foolish mortals who dare defile my sanctuary!
Be gone!

Jian
What are you saying?!
Lucia, it's me! Jian!

Goddess Althena
You are not permitted to come any closer!
Leave at once!
If you do not, then you shall face my wrath!

Jian
Lucia, what has he done to you?
Don't you remember me...?
Lucia!
Gabryel
Jian, it's no good...
Now she is awakened again, she can't remember ever being Lucia.
Just as when she was reborn as Lucia, she had no memories of being the Goddess....

Jian
No! I won't accept that!
My Lucia... she isn't Althena! She's just... Lucia!

Ignatius
Oh, you poor thing.
Why, I think there is a tear in my eye!
Love is all powerful, is it?
Or eternal?

You fool!
The only all powerful, eternal thing in this world stands before you now!
Althena herself!

Jian
You're wrong!

Ignatius
Love steals everything.
Don't you see?

You may believe that you are giving that single-minded love of yours, but in truth you are stealing everything with it!
See the truth!

Jian
What?!
You think that I've been... hurting Lucia?!

Ignatius
Face reality, whelp.
How do you explain the fact that your precious Lucia is here, now, reborn as the Goddess Althena?

Jian
Oh, Lucia...
Can't you remember, please!
Remember why you chose to become Lucia!

Goddess Althena
...

Ignatius
Well, this is very moving.
But it all seems a little one-sided. She has moved on!

Perhaps it is time we settled things between us, then?
There cannot be two Dragon Masters in the world, after all.
I am more than enough alone.

Jian
...
Gabryel
Wait, Jian...!
What are you doing?!

Jian
Lucia, look...
Here are the Dragon Rings I received for completing the Trials of the Dragons.

Please, give them back to the Dragons?
You can do that, right?

Flora
Hey... Jian...?!
If you give back those rings, what'll happen to your Black Magic?

We're just about to fight Ignatius here!
Don't you think it might be better to hold onto them?

Jian
No, Flora, I don't... I don't want to be a Dragonmaster.
I just want to go back to Searis, with Lucia.

Goddess Althena
...

Ignatius
Oh, you poor fool.
Your long journey has crippled your wits, I see.

You have passed the Dragons' Trials.
Even if you give up the Black Magic now, that will not change anything.
You are a Dragonmaster.

Jian
Ignatius...
If you want to kill me, do it! I'm not about to run or hide!

Gabryel
Jian, are you serious?!
You can't fight Ignatius unarmed!

Ignatius
You push me further than I can take, whelp! Very well!
Another taste of my power for you!
Goddess Althena
...!

Gabryel
Jian...!

Jian
Stay back!
Don't worry! I'm fine!

Ignatius
Now, to finally run you through!
Or have you had enough?
Well, I'm not about to stop!
Meet your end!
Jian
Ignatius...
You still don't get it, do you?
We can't solve this by fighting!

I may defeat you, or you can defeat me, it does not matter! One of us will end up defeated!
That is what matters!
We are only strengthening the circle of hatred!

Ignatius, wake up to the truth!

Ignatius
What nonsense is this?
I have become all powerful!
Indeed, I am a God!
Goddess Althena herself is within my power.
What have I to fear now?
Nothing!

Jian
...And yet you still fear something, don't you. Not me!
Yourself! You fear yourself!

Ignatius
How dare you!
You are finished, whelp!
Gabryel
Jian, look out!

Flora
No...!
Goddess Althena
...

Jian
Lucia!
Jian
Lucia, please!
Say something!
Come back to me!

Goddess Althena
I am... Althena...
The Goddess... Althena...

Gabryel
Lucia, are you OK?
Oh, please be OK!

Ignatius
Althena!
Curse you!
Are you willing to go so far to stop my plans?!

Flora
Jian...

Jian
Ignatius!
I tried to reason with you, but this is it!
This is unforgivable!

Ignatius
Foolish Althena...!
How long it took me to bring you under my control!
And now, to lose that advantage, like this!
I did not think you capable of such foolishness.

Goddess Althena
...Igna...tius...

Ignatius
No matter.
The same as a Dragonmaster, this world only needs one all-powerful being. Which looks like me, on both counts.

And you, whelp. All your talk of circles of hatred!
It looks as though you are ready to fight me now!

Jian
Ignatius! Raise your sword, defend yourself!
I'm going to finish you!

Goddess Althena
No... please... stop...!

Jian
Lucia!
Can you hear me?!

Goddess Althena
Please... do not fight...
Think... about what you learned... during the Dragons' Trials...

Cannot you now see that simply defeating your opponent does not solve anything?
Prove to me... that you have learned this lesson!

Jian
But... but Lucia!
I'm trying, but... look what he has done to you!
I can't find the strength to forgive him for that!

Goddess Althena
The bravery to quell one's rage...

You do not need to defeat him... whom you see as your enemy...
Rather, you require... the bravery to open your heart and forgive. Forgive... him...!

Jian
Lucia...!

Goddess Althena
Please, do not... cry for me... I am no longer... required...
This world does not... need me...

Gabryel
What do you mean, Goddess?
Goddess Althena
The strength to forge the future... it must come not from a single, all-powerful being... but from each one of you... alive in the world today.

Jian
What do you mean, Lucia?

Goddess Althena
A being like me... in charge of everything... is not good for the people as a whole.
This world should be ruled by... all peoples... together... Ruled equally...

The beastmen... and humans... and even the Vile Tribe... must all live together, side by side...

Flora
But... we can't live without you...
Oh Goddess! We need you!

Goddess Althena
No, my child... You do not.
Think of all you have learned. Each of you are already, in your own way, just as powerful as I ever could be.

Jian
...

Goddess Althena
A single... all powerful... supreme being such as myself... is no longer needed. It is my fate to... fade... away...

Jian
Please! Wait! Listen to me!
Lucia, what are you going to do? Where are you going?
Lucia! Answer me!
I love you! Lucia!
Jian
Lu... Lucia...!

Gabryel
Oh no!
Jian, look!
Ignatius has got Flora!
Ignatius
A real tearjerker, I must admit!
Now that Althena is gone, there is no reason for me to remain in the accursed Frontier.

Jian
What are you planning now?

Ignatius
The ruler of this world!
The all powerful being to command all!
That... is I!

All who oppose me face death!
Well, what do you think?
Will you kneel before your new God?

Jian
Let Flora go!

Ignatius
Silence!
Stay where you are, then!
If that is the way it is to be, I'll kill you all now!
Starting with this pretty little thing right here!

Flora
Jian!
Forget about me!

Jian
Never! I'm going to save you!

Ignatius
Oh really... big words!
I thought I told you not to move?

Jian
Why you...
Is there nothing you will stoop to, Ignatius?!
Ignatius
...What the?!
What is this?!
Gabryel
Flora!

Ignatius
What...?!
No!
Jian
Ignatius...!
Ignatius
Hah!
I don't need your help, whelp. Release me!

Jian
No!
Don't let go!
Ignatius!
Jian
Ignatius!
Gabryel
Jian...!

Flora
Are you OK?

Jian
Ignatius... I couldn't save him...

Gabryel
With the release of Goddess Althena's power, this Cathedral is rapidly becoming unsafe!
We have to get out of here!
Cathedral of Althena itself is going to collapse!
Hey, Jian, can you hear me?!

Jian
I failed...
In the end, who did I save?
No one...
Oh, Lucia...!

Gabryel
This is not the time!

Flora
Gabi's right!
Anyway, Jian, you protected us, didn't you?
I'm still in one piece, thanks to you!

Jian
Flora... thank you. But...

Gabryel
Enough talk!
We're getting out of here!
Flora
Oh, wow...
So this is the Black Dragon's Cave?

Jian
I think so!

Gabryel
It's mysterious enough, certainly. Is that limestone?
I wonder where the Black Dragon is?

Jian
Probably deep inside.
Well, let's get started!
Who knows, the Dragon may come looking for us.
Jian
Hey...!

This must be it!
A Photon Plant!

Gabryel
It sure does glow, just like Marion said.

Flora
Amazing...
But I was so hoping to catch some fireflies!

Jian
With this, we can light up the darkness.

Gabryel
Let's hope so!
Well, back to the search!
Jian
What's that?
Something... shining?

Flora
Looks like... fireflies?

Gabryel
Fireflies?
In a cave like this?
...Surely not.

Flora
Hey, there might be!

I know! Let's catch some fireflies to light our way, shall we?

Gabryel
I don't think that would work, Flora...

Flora
Oh, lighten up, Gabi... I thought it was a good idea...
Mysterious Voice
Halt!
Flora
Who's there? Show yourself!

Jian
The... Black Dragon?

Black Dragon
You are Jian, I take it?
Pretty small for a hero.

Gabryel
Hey, show yourself!
Where are your manners?

Black Dragon
Manners, is it?
No need to take on so.
I am going to run away!
In fact, I am already among you...

Jian
Black Dragon...
We don't have much time!
Can you please let me take the Trial?

Black Dragon
Ah, the Trial...
Well, Jian, I have been observing your battles.
You certainly appear to have the qualities required in order to become a Dragonmaster...

Jian
...I hope so.

Black Dragon
So let us get started.
The Trial of the Black Dragon!
Jian
What?!
Don't you have something to say first?
That's it? We just fight?

Black Dragon
It's simple enough, I think.
I am the embodiment of all you see as evil.
You must learn what true evil is, for yourself.
See it with your own eyes.

Why?
Because the knowledge of true evil, and thus the ability to recognize it, is a vital skill to a Dragonmaster.

Jian
...True evil...

Black Dragon
Well then, are you prepared?
Prepared to look upon purest evil?
And do you think you can stand against, and defeat it?
Jian
Black Dragon...?
Just what is the meaning of this?!

Black Dragon
I must say...
You did well.

Jian
...

Black Dragon
Evil does not necessarily exist outside of yourself.
Have you ever considered this?

Evil lurks within each one of you...
So long as that evil remains safely within, the world may yet know peace.

Jian
Evil... within me...?

Black Dragon
All people battle with the evil inside themselves.
Standing against it is the only way to save the world from evil.

It sounds easy, doesn't it.
Easy to say, certainly.
But it is actually the hardest thing in the world.

Indeed, have you not just experienced, at the risk of your very lives, how hard it can be to fight against yourself?

Jian
I have.

Black Dragon
Then do not forget this lesson.
Because you are the only one who can fight the evil that lurks within yourself.

As a Dragonmaster... especially, remaining strong in the face of such pressure shall be your hardest task.

You must not submit, as Ignatius has!
Jian, I am counting on you...
Jian
Yes, Black Dragon...
Flora
So, this is the Blue Dragon Cave?

Gabryel
...I think so.

Jian
Finally, we're almost there!
Hang on, Lucia!
Gabryel
Oh my, what a beautiful lake!

Flora
Hey, look!
At the bottom of the lake!
There are... flowers down there!

Jian
Flowers?!
You're seeing things again, Flora.
How could flowers survive in a cave like this, let alone at the bottom of a lake?

Flora
But...
Look! I can see them!

Gabryel
Hey you guys! Cut it out!
Let's keep moving!
Jian
I don't believe it...
Looks like I owe someone an apology...

Gabryel
What's wrong, Jian?

Flora
Ah ha!
Look, I was right! Flowers!

Jian
Tovia was telling the truth, then!

Gabryel
What beautiful flowers!

Flora
Now we're much closer...
Looks like they're made from stone!

Jian
I wonder, just how many hundreds of years it has taken for them to blossom?

Gabryel
Stone flowers!
How mysterious!
And kinda romantic too, I think!

Jian
Yeah... I wish Lucia could see this!
Jian
I don't believe it...
How can this be?!

Gabryel
What is it, Jian?

Flora
Look, look!
I knew I was right! Ha!

Jian
Looks like Tovia was telling the truth...

Flora
That's right!
I told you, didn't I?!
Flowers! I was right!

Jian
My apologies, Flora...

Gabryel
This is amazing...
They are really quite beautiful, aren't they?

Flora
Now we're much closer...
Looks like they're made from stone!

Jian
I wonder, just how many hundreds of years it has taken for them to blossom?

Gabryel
Stone flowers!
How mysterious!
And kinda romantic too, I think!

Jian
Yeah... I wish Lucia could see this!
Flora
Oh wow! How pretty!

Gabryel
I can't believe my eyes!
Who'd have thought a place like this could exist at the bottom of a cave?

Jian
I can almost feel nature breathing... What scale!
It's just... massive!

Flora
Quiet a moment... I can hear something...
What is that? A... waterfall?

Jian
...Quick!
Both of you, back!
Jian
The Blue Dragon...!

Blue Dragon
Ah, I thought it might be you... I have been waiting for you to get here.

Flora
Waiting, for us?
Wow! We're getting pretty famous, I guess!

Gabryel
Flora! Cut that out!

Blue Dragon
Those are the rings of my brethren, are they not?

Jian
They are.
I have passed each of their Trials.

Blue Dragon
Indeed...
We Dragons are the embodiment of the magical power of the Goddess Althena.

This magical power has started to weaken, and now it is all I can do to maintain my consciousness.

Before even that finally vanishes, I had hoped to pass my abilities to one worthy of the title of Dragonmaster.
Now, thanks to you, it looks like I will get that chance.

Jian
You will let me take the Trial, then?

Blue Dragon
Of course.

You've learnt, through battle, how to properly handle power and the respect such strength deserves.

You have displayed the ability to see the truth in everything in this world, and you have stared down and triumphed in the face of true evil.

And now, finally, I shall grant you wisdom.

Jian
...Wisdom?

Blue Dragon
Yes.
The final requirement of a Dragonmaster.

Jian
...

Blue Dragon
He who takes on the powers of a Dragonmaster has the command of Black Magic.

As I am sure you have been warned, Black Magic can be highly dangerous.
Thus, a Dragonmaster requires wisdom in order to use it correctly.

Justice lies within wisdom!

This is the final Trial!

Jian
Justice... within wisdom...

Blue Dragon
As you are the one who wishes to become the Dragonmaster, you must take this Trial alone.
Are you ready?
Then let us begin!
Blue Dragon
Is that your best?
Determination alone will not win you many battles!

Jian
What should I do...?
Think!

Blue Dragon
You two, there?
Help him, if you like.

Flora
What...?

Gabryel
Yes!

Blue Dragon
Young one... I recognize within you the ability to judge all matters correctly.
That is true wisdom!

But as such wisdom progresses, you may lose your simple, pure heart and thus become capable of making a grave mistake.

In other words... like Ignatius, you may pass this Trial and receive great wisdom, but forget your purity and succumb to vanity or desire, and you will end up turning that wisdom to evil!

So, what should you do?
Think carefully!
Very carefully!
Well then, again!

Jian
It's no good... I don't know!
What should I do?!

Gabryel
Jian, don't think too hard!
Just simply take in what the Blue Dragon is saying!

Jian
Simply... take it in...?

Flora
You've got ears, right?
Like he said! Never forget your simple, pure heart!

Jian
I see...
That's it! That's the answer!
Gabryel
Hey, Jian!
No time to celebrate now!
Here comes the Blue Dragon again!
Blue Dragon
Jian, isn't it...
You fight well!
I am impressed.
And it looks as though you have worked out that which I desired of you, too!

Jian
I have...
To be open to what others have to say...
A pure heart, always valuing the opinions of companions.

Blue Dragon
Yes! That is it!

A Dragonmaster must undertake the vital role of being responsible for both Goddess Althena's magical power and the protection of the world.
This places a great deal of power at their command.

Thus, should a Dragonmaster stop caring for others and turn these powers to simply fulfilling their own desires, you can imagine what might happen!

You only have to look at what Ignatius has become to begin to understand.

Jian
Yes...

Blue Dragon
Three heads are better than one.
The presence of your trusted companions is what led you to this conclusion!

No matter how great the power you obtain is, you must never forget to listen to others!
Do you understand?
Flora
Hey, we really helped out!
But it's not as if we'd ever let you forget about us!

Gabryel
I'm glad it worked out, too... But the final challenge still lies ahead.

Flora
What do you mean?

Gabryel
In order to become a true Dragonmaster, it is necessary to defeat the current one...
In other words, to defeat Ignatius.

Jian
I know...
But if that is what it's gonna take to save Lucia, there's no stopping me!

Blue Dragon
Now then, go!
Once I, last of the Dragons, lose my physical form, the barrier we have maintained around Cathedral of Althena shall quickly begin to lose strength!

Ignatius has probably been waiting for this chance to reawaken Goddess Althena!

Flora
Reawaken the Goddess...?
You mean...

Gabryel
Lucia will turn back into Goddess Althena?

Jian
What? She can do that?!

Blue Dragon
While the Dragons and the Dragonmaster vow eternal loyalty to the Goddess Althena, measures are in place to prevent that which Ignatius is now attempting.

Therefore, even he cannot enter the Chamber of Rebirth, located in Cathedral of Althena.

However, that barrier is now weakening... Ignatius may have a chance to reawaken Goddess Althena by gaining access to the Chamber.

If he does so, then all will have been for naught!
I can feel it... see it...
As I fade, the barrier fades with me...

And there, waiting impatiently, willing me into nothingness... Igna...tius...!
Jian
We have to hurry!
Before it's too late!
I could lose Lucia forever at this rate! Quick!
Back to Vile Castle to stop Ignatius!

Flora
But...
We'll never make it back to the Frontier in time!
Not if the barrier is already gone!

Gabryel
Jian...

Jian
I'm not giving up yet!
And neither are you!
There has to be a way!
There has to be... I know it!
Jian
Here we go...
This must be one of the treasures Saul talked about.

Gabryel
Yes... one of the Blue Dragon treasures.

Flora
...Hold on, though.
It's just a rock!
Some treasure!
And this is meant to control the eruptions of the lake?

Jian
That's what he said...
All we can do is collect them all and see what happens!
Jian
What's this...?
It kinda looks important...
Jian
Here we go!
Saul said three treasures, right?

Gabryel
Which means...

Flora
One left!
Gabryel
What is this thing?
It looks like it has a lid on it...?
Jian
Great!
We've got all three treasures!

Gabryel
Which means...

Flora
Now we can meet the Blue Dragon!
Flora
What's this?
An odd looking stone...
Jian
This must be it...
The Levitation Stone that Kirlis told us about.

Gabryel
Well, it's floating, OK...
Looks like we found it.

Flora
Don't let me near it!
I think I want to smash it!
Jian
Flora...I'm sorry.
Please, try to understand.
We don't have time to walk to the Frontier.

I'm betting everything on this airship story.
If it really does allow us to fly... then we can go straight to Vile Castle and save Lucia!

Flora
...I know...

Gabryel
Flora...?

Flora
I'm fine! Fine, OK? Oh, what?
You think I'm scared of that airship or something?!
That says a lot about what you think of me, huh!
I'm fine, I'm telling you!
Not scared at all, OK?

Gabryel
Flora...
You're doing a good job of convincing me otherwise, but...

Flora
Oh, Gabi!
Stop picking on me!
Let's just go, OK?

Jian
Flora... thank you.
Kirlis
Oh my, now this is a surprise!
How long has it been...
How long since I last had visitors to my tower...?
So, then...
You brought something for me, have you?
What's that...?
You've got nothing?

Zip? Zilch? Zero?
Then I've nothing more to say! Be gone! Be gone!
Kirlis
Huh, you young punks nowadays have no manners!
No courtesy! No refinement!
Back, back! Away! Be gone!
Kirlis
How rude! Such insolence!
You dare to ask what I want?!

Jian
Ah... yes...?

Kirlis
Huh... see-through, you are!
I know exactly what it is you're after!
You've fixed your beady eye on my XR45 Sakura, right?

Forget it!
Over my withered corpse, perhaps!

...is what I'd like to say, spittle flying.
But I'll give you a chance!
Persistence is a virtue, and all that!
So... bring me a stone flower!
Gabryel
A stone flower?

Kirlis
That's right! A stone flower!
Hah, so you're not up to the task?!
Kirlis
Could it be?! Bless my bones!
That's an Anthodites!
The phantom stone flower!
So... would you give it to me, perhaps...?
Kirlis
Really? Really?!
My thanks, young'un!
I simply must have anything rare... Rare things for my collection!
Kirlis
Huh, so you get your kicks picking on old folks?
Come now, you young punk, you don't need it!
Hand it over, won't you?
Kirlis
Well then, get ready!
Prepare your mind for expansion!
For I am currently creating something incredible!
Head up onto the roof and check it out!
Kirlis
There you go!
Surprised? Shocked? Amazed?
No, no, don't strain your vocal chords!

I know... I know... You're too surprised to even speak!
Same thing happened to me, when I had the idea!

Flora
So... where exactly is this going?

Kirlis
Of course, of course...
Look here!

This is called a Levitation Stone...
It's going to be the power source for the airship.

Gabryel
Hold on...?
A stone that can fly?

Kirlis
That's right!
You'd better believe it!

But I can tell, you're shocked and surprised. This is not an ordinary stone, after all!
It's a Levitation Stone, that's why!

Flora
So...
Let's see some flying!

Kirlis
Well... you see... the thing is...
Yes, that is the problem.
The crux of this matter!
Levitation Stones only work in pairs!

You need two of them to tango, as it were! Or even rumba!
The awesome power to float is created by the resistance between a pair of stones, you see.

Jian
So where's the other one?

Kirlis
Well said! Sharp, you are!

One might be found...
In Negri Ocean Lab!
That's the place! So...

Gabryel
You want us to go and get it for you, right?

Kirlis
I see... you're smart.
That's just what I want!
How'd you know?

Flora
It's hardly... airship science?

Kirlis
You've got that right!
Well them, off you go!
Run along!
The Levitation Stone from Negri Ocean Lab!
You got that?!
Kirlis
If you manage to get a Levitation Stone for me, as I have asked... I'll let you fly in her on her maiden voyage!
I'd say that's quite an offer, I would!
Kirlis
Amazing! Brilliant! Fantastic! That's it! A Levitation Stone!

Bless my bones, you are impressive, young'un!
You did it, you really did it! I almost didn't dare dream!

Now my dear XR45 Sakura will be completed!
You'll be able to fly, fly, high as the sky, wherever you please! Oh yeah!
Kirlis
I might live in this tower, yeah... But I have ears, and they still hear things.
So what's this I hear about you fighting for sake of the world and the sake of its people, eh? Impressive!

If my dear XR45 Sakura can help you out, well, it will be my pleasure to offer her airborne services!

The Frontier or wherever else you want to go, you can fly straight there now!
Pretty cool for an old fool, huh? Off you go then!
Save the world, why don't you?
Jian
OK, now I know the old guy is crazy. This heap of junk is never going to fly!

Gabryel
Hey, don't be so sure.
I like the design, anyway!

Flora
I don't really care if it flies or not... because I won't!
Sorry, but... I don't like heights.
Jian
Just think, for a moment though...
If it really does fly, we'll be able to save Lucia much faster than I ever thought possible!
Jian
Thank you, both of you...
I'm going to use this to fly and save Lucia, now.

However, there's no guarantee that I'll make it back.
Flora... look at this thing!
It could easily just fall apart in the air!

So, I've decided...
I'm going on alone.

Gabryel
Jian, you dunce!
This act is getting old!
How many times are you going to try and ditch us?
I'm going with you.
Full stop. No arguments.
Lucia is special to me, too, you know!

She was my first... my first friend... And my first true comrade!

You think I want to lose her?
I want to save her just as much as you!

Jian
Gabi...
Flora
Don't count me out, either, OK?
If it looks like it's going to break up, I'll hold it together with my teeth!
I'm fine! Let's go!

Jian
Flora... thank you.
Gabryel
Well, Jian...
Do you finally understand now? So stop this time wasting nonsense and let's get airborne!

Flora
G...G...Gabi's right!

Jian
Both of you... thank you.
Long, long ago...
This was a dead world, without grass, without trees, without even air.

Then came the Goddess Althena, her servant the Dragonmaster and the Four Dragons.

Althena's magical power gave moisture to the earth and transformed the desert of death into a lush paradise.
The world became aware of life, and embraced it.

This reborn planet became the home of countless people, living under the watchful gaze and blessed by the Goddess Althena.

The Dragonmaster vowed eternal loyalty to the Goddess, and was appointed as Master of the Four Dragons to protect the harmony of the world.

The Goddess Althena became the source of life at the center of this magical world.

The 'Beastmen'.
Blessed with powerful bodies, swift reflexes and brimming with vitality, they excelled physically.

And mirroring them, the 'Humans'.
Blessed with intellect and the ability to use complex tools, but with smaller, weaker bodies.

As time passed... the relationship between these two races began to lean in favor of the 'Beastmen'.

The dynamic 'Beastmen' built a magnificent castle and lived a luxurious, rich lifestyle.
The 'Humans', desiring quieter surroundings, moved away from the cities.

These opposing lifestyles placed reasonable distance between the two races, creating a balance and ultimately aiding the maintenance of lasting peace.

Turn now to the flourishing Port Searis in the continent of Caldor.

A youth who loves acrobatics, named 'Jian Campbell', is making a living here as a 'courier', along with his friend 'Lucia Collins'.

The pair of them love excitement... especially when spiced with just a little danger.
Titus
Is this your first visit to the continent of Caldor?

Peles
Yes... I have heard countless stories of it, but... I did not realize that it was such a beautiful place.

Titus
Ah, yes, it is certainly beautiful...

Peles
So... is this allowed, do you think?
The rebirth of the Goddess Althena as a human...?

Titus
It is not my place to say.
But, I can tell you this.
This is not the first time that our Goddess has been reborn in such a way.

Peles
Quite amazing... releasing all of her magical power out into the world like that!

Titus
Goddess Althena said it herself.
That she is with us, inside us all, at all times.
That, though weak and fragile, it is our lives which truly bring light to this world.
Peles
I dare say I agree with that way of thinking.

Titus
Happiness does not lie in control by an all-powerful, all-seeing being.
I can only hope that from now on we shall all be better able to fight against the evil lurking inside us.

Peles
And Goddess Althena transformed herself in order to show us that...?

Titus
Yes...
She is showing us the way, by choosing to live among us as Lucia once more.
She is the single beacon of light that has come back to us from the void...
Lucia
Come on, Titus, you slow-poke! Let's get going!
And so, with the Blue Star looking on, our story has just begun...

Carried by the wind, on wings of hope, time moves toward the future.
For now, all is peaceful.
But one day, the time for valor shall return again.
A day when an adventurer will become... Dragonmaster.
THE END