======================================================================= VANDAL HEARTS SCRIPT transcribed by Kamau mglanville@hotmail.com Please ask my permission before putting any part of this script on your site by e-mailing me at mglanville@hotmail.com Vandal Hearts (TM) is an original game developed by KONAMI COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT TOKYO KONAMI CO., LTD. reserves all copyrights, trademarks, and other industrial property rights with respect to this game. ======= CONTENTS ====================================================== Act I: A Premonition of War Act II: Island of Madness Act III: Escape to Tomorrow Act IV: The Successor Act V: The Legacy Act VI: A Fool's Epitaph Extras: villagers, dojo, death quotes, errors ======================================================================= ======================================================================= Sostegaria... For over a millennium the fertile lands in the heart of this vast continent were ruled by the Holy Ashah Dynasty, descendants of Toroah the Messiah. However, it is man's doom to forget... Amidst all the wealth and exotic pleasures, the nobility lost their way and sank into corruption and depravity, forgetting even the holy teaching of Toroah. It was in these days of unrest that the citizens, struggling under an oppressive regime, rose up and - under the leadership of Arris the Sage - took up arms against the Kingdom. That was the first outbreak of violence in what would later be known simply as "The Revolution". The Royal Army's counterattack was swift and fierce, but time and time again they were put to flight by the cunning strategies of Arris and the indomitable will of the advancing Liberation Army. Victory in hand, the rebels set up a Council and worked to establish the continent's first democracy. And so, the republic of "Ishtaria" was born. However, Arris the Sage, whom all hoped would lead the country, mysteriously vanished and has not been seen again to this day. Now, 15 years later, the shadow of war once again threatens Ishtaria... ======================================================================= 1254 at Gillbaris Island "Castle Ruins" (We see three soldiers enter a large temple of some sort. One of them is unmasked. They examine the temple.) Soldier: What is this place? (A fourth soldier enters. He is also unmasked and wears a long, red cloak. He looks very important. He speaks...) Magnus: Ah... A hidden room. (Magnus, the cloaked soldier, walks forward.) Magnus: Hmm?... What's that? (The camera swivels round and we see a raised platform with an ornament of some sort on it. There is a red orb in the ornament. Magnus steps up to it and the other soldiers follow him.) Magnus: Oh... That sparkle... This must be it!... (Magnus reaches out and touches the orb and rays of energy blast out of it suddenly.) Magnus: Th... These rays... What's happening? (The orb glows white and the soldiers are blinded by the bright light.) ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT I: A PREMONITION OF WAR ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (Complete blackness. We can hear the sound of running water, and birds are singing.) ...Ash... ...Ash!!... (The blackness fades into a grassy area with hills and trees. Three men in long brown robes are standing side-by-side with some sort of cargo.) Merchant: Ash!... Man called Ash: Huh... Oh sorry... I was just thinking... Merchant: Well you better get up. We've got some trouble. Other merchant: We're surrounded! (The camera zooms out to show a large gang of thieves emerging from the hills and trees. It zooms back in on an archer.) Thief: He he... You're trapped. Don't you know that this valley belongs to the "Fangs of Umbaba"? Other thief: They're just some dumb wandering peddlers... Ignorance is the root of misfortune, as they say. Thief: If ya wanna live, hand over everything ya got! Although, we'll probably kill you anyway! ...Right boss? (The camera pans across to a large man with a big sword.) Zoot: Wa ha ha ha... Ya got that right! (The camera pans back to the three merchants.) Man called Ash: .................... Thief: Hee hee hee Too scared to talk baby? (The archer runs up to Ash, but the merchant pulls a sword from his robes and slices at the thief, killing him instantly.) Zoot: What the...! Merchant: Ha! Where's that stupid laugh now?! Other merchant: Now you're the ones who are trapped! Zoot: Who the hell are you guys? (Ash quickly removes his cloak to reveal a man in shining armor with a sharp sword and a solid shield.) Ash: Ash Lambert. 3rd Platoon, Ishtarian Security Forces. (The first merchant removes his robes. He is a grinning soldier with a red bandanna and a bow and arrow.) Diego: Diego Renault. From the same. (The third merchant removes his robes. He looks similar to Ash only with a larger sword. His hair is tied back into a small ponytail and he has short stubble on his face.) Clint: Clint Picard. Likewise. Zoot: Ash?!?... Ash of the Black Wind?! Ash: Surrender quietly and we'll grant you quarter! Zoot: Against only three?... Kill them now! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE AGAINST THIEVES ** VICTORY = Defeat of Zoot Gach DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * Zoot: Argh... Don't kill me! I'm pleading with you! (The screen fades to black and then back in again. Zoot has been tied up by Ash, Diego and Clint.) Diego: That should teach you guys a... huh? It's you! I knew I'd seen you before... Zoot Gach! Ash: What?! The same Zoot Gach that we threw in jail just 2 months ago? Diego: Yup. Same bonehead grin. Don't ya recognize him? Zoot: The pleasure's all mine. Diego: Wait a minute... Only 2 months and he's already out?! He must have busted out! Ash: True, but I don't think for a minute that this loser would be able to break himself out of prison. Zoot: Staves and stones may crack yer bones... But it don't bother me cause my friends won't forget about me! Diego: What does that mean?! Answer me! Zoot: Oh nothing... I'm just mumbling. Clint: Ah... I think I get it. Ash: .................... Clint: Bandits have shut off all trade in this valley. Whoever freed him is probably reaping huge blackmarket profits... A crooked politician or merchant pulled strings. So what else is new? Diego: That burns me up! Should I put an arrow in him right now, Ash? Zoot: No... Stop!... Ash: Hold it Diego. Killing this flea is no answer... Our job is finished. Let's go back to Shumeria! ======= CAPITAL SHUMERIA ============================================== Ash: First let's go to HQ and give our report. (Ash and his companions MOVE to Security Force HQ. We see a room with a desk. The three men are with another older man.) Ash: ...And that concludes my report. Clive: I see... Well done. Let's take a good look into the background of this... Zoot Gach. Ash: I agree. Diego: As always. The big guy gets away, the truth gets swept under the carpet, and only the small guy gets screwed! Clint: Hey! You're outta line! Clive: Hmm... You're right. There are lots of things wrong with this government... Corrupt politicians, oppressive taxes and not enough police. The rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer. But no matter how filthy things get, as long as we remember who we are... We, the people, have the freedom to change things for the better. And it's that freedom that so many people died for 15 years ago! Ash: I understand... Diego: I had no right to mouth off like that. I'm sorry. Clive: No... It's all right. In any case, you all did a fine job. Why don't you relax a little. (It fades back to the town square again.) Diego: Now how about we head to the tavern for a drink? ======= CAPITAL SHUMERIA TAVERN ======================================= (Ash and the others go to the tavern and talk to the people there. If you try to leave the bar, a man enters.) Man: H.. Help... Somebody... ...Riot... Ash: What?! Clint: Calm down and tell us what happened. Man: A riot has broken out in the Dover District! Diego: Dover District... AKA the Royal Ghetto. But they hate bloodshed. They're always the first to negotiate. Man: That's the terrible part! The army decided that the Royalists were behind the assassination of Smetana, and they came to take Count Claymore away. Things got tense. The young nobles gathered around the soldiers... Then there was some shoving and someone drew a sword... Clint: What kind of fool... Ash: Let's get over there right away. ======= DOVER DISTRICT ================================================ (The three soldiers stand in an old street in the rain. A man is ahead with his back to them. He is wearing large crimson armor and has a very large sword in its sheath.) Ash: These are the advance troops? (The camera pans across the city. Crimson-coloured knights are duelling with rioters in light clothing.) Crimon Soldier: Hayahhh! Rioter: Waaaa! (The soldiers kills the rioter.) Crimson Soldier: Kiiiiyaaaaaaa! Rioter: Unnnnnh! (The soldier kills the rioter.) Rioter: We... We surrender! Crimson Soldier: Surrender to death! Rioter: Aaaaaahhhhhh! (The soldier kills the rioter.) Diego: Barbarians! Clint: Crimson Guard. Special anti-terrorist forces... An elite fighting force formed by the well known right winger, Hel Spites. They're famous for being ruthless with terrorists, but this is too much! Kane: (the man in the crimson suit) Troops... Assemble! (The camera swivels round to show the crimson soldiers forming a small unit in front of Kane, and he turns to face Ash.) Kane: Well if it isn't the Security Forces! What are you doing poking your little noses around here? Ash: .......... Kane: I know you... You're Ash Lambert. The son of a traitor becoming a platoon leader. What a joke! Diego: What did you say! Clint: You scum! Ash: Stop it both of you! Diego: But Ash... Ash: Let him talk. Kane: Always trying to sound like a saint, aren't you? As you can see, we've cleared the area of enemies. Some are still holed up in that church, but we have business elsewhere. As long as you're here, you can take care of those left in the church. Make sure you do a good job now! (Kane leads the crimson soldiers away and they watch him leave.) Diego: That lousy creep! Clint: Yes, but what are we going to do, Ash? Ash: Let's go and see if they will surrender. It looks like there are no enemies around, but don't relax your guard. (The camera rotates and zooms out to show the town, when some War Ghosts and Hunter Imps appear. It zooms back to show the soldiers.) Diego: Where did these monsters come from?! Ash: They've been summoned by a powerful mage! Clint: We're gonna have to cut through them! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN THE DOVER DISTRICT ** VICTORY = Arrival at church DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * AFTER 1 ROUND * Diego: This is a pretty filthy place for nobles to live! Ash: After the war, their estates were confiscated and a special tax was levied on them. They can't even vote. Clint: Just as the Ashah Dynasty did, we are oppressing them just for being who they are. Politicians always make the weak in society pay for others' mistakes. Diego: That would make anyone want to fight back! ======================================================================= * AFTER 2 ROUNDS * Ash: We have to release that drawbridge! If we 'examine' the switch, it should release it! ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (Ash, Clint and Diego enter the church where they find a small group of rioters with weapons.) Ash: You're surrounded. Drop your weapons. We don't want any more needless bloodshed. (A smartly-dressed man walks towards Ash from the altar. He has a stick in one hand. It is Count Claymore.) Count Claymore: You mean that, don't you? Ash: Of course I do. Young man: Don't listen Count! He's a blood drinking devil! Count Claymore: But if we continue, everyone will die. Other young man: Excuse me, Count... But how can you trust these soldiers that just slaughtered us? Count Claymore: Peace needs to begin somewhere. Also, this man seems different than those crimson murderers. I'll give him a chance. (Count Claymore steps forward.) Count Claymore: We surrender. (The men all drop their weapons and step back a bit cautiously.) Ash: I'm Ash Lambert. Ishtarian Security Force. Thank you for your quick compliance. Count Claymore: My name is Roland Claymore. This riot is my responsibility. Please do not blame anyone else. Ash: We have laws here. It's not for me to decide... But I will report that you offered us no resistance. Kane: That's enough! Stop right there! (They all turn to see Kane and the Crimson Soldiers enter the church, and they close the doors behind them.) Ash: The Crimson Guards have come back. Kane: Nice job for a bunch of weaklings like you! But we'll assume control from this point on! Or maybe this son of a traitor wants to take credit for this? Ash: I want no credit. Do as you like. (The Crimson Guards march forward and Clint and Diego move aside. Kane stops when he reaches Ash, waits a while, then Ash also steps aside.) Kane: Thank you, I will... Which one is Claymore? Count Claymore: I am... Kane: Good. Come over here. (Claymore walks over and stands next to Kane.) Kane: I have no need for the others. Kill them! (The Crimson Soldiers advance and the rioters try to run away. Diego steps forward in horror and we hear swords slicing flesh as blood sprays up from off-screen.) Count Claymore: What have you done?! (Claymore walks forward and falls to his knees. The camera pans across to show the corpses of the rioters, then pans back to show Ash and his companions.) Diego: Murderer... Clint: I won't forget this! Ash: Kane you bastard!!!! Kane: So the traitor finally shows his colors? Good! I've wanted to cross swords with you for a long time! (Kane draws his mighty blade, but the church doors swing open and Clive rushes in. He stands between them.) Clive: Stop it you two! Ash: Commander Beckett! Clive: Stop! You're both sworn to defend this country! Kane: Leave us be old man! Clive: You had best watch that mouth of yours, Kane! The Crimson Guard is already in enough trouble with the council. More trouble and even your dad, Hel Spites won't be able to help. Kane: Save your hollow threats for someone else... But I will be a big man and forget your rude words to me today. However, I'm taking this old blueblood with me! (Kane leads the Crimson Guards out of the church, taking Claymore with them. They close the doors behind them.) Ash: Damn him... Clive: Thanks for staying cool, Ash. It will be fine... ======================================================================= The next day... (We see Clive and another man standing in his office. The other man has long black hair and large metal shoulder pads. He is wearing an ornate royal-looking cloak.) Ash: Excuse me sir. (Ash enters the room and the other man steps forward. Oh! You must be Ash! Clive: Ash, this is Dolf Crowley, a representative from the Young Revolutionary Party. Ash: Nice to meet you. Clive: Dolf has been sent out as a mediator to deal with yesterday's incident. Ash: Hmm.............. Dolf: I understand exactly how you feel Ash. The Crimson Guards were completely at fault in yesterday's massacre. Normally there would be need for a mediator in a case like this, but there are a few complications. As you know, the Crimson Guards are the pet project of Hel Spites, the Minister of Defense. Hel's tactics may be questionable, but his power and influence in the council are not. I personally think that he is a dangerous man who needs to be watched. Ash: .................... Dolf: Two council members are competing to become head. Hel Spites and Renaldo Castille, who is as you know the head of the Domestic Security Forces, your boss. See the pattern? Ash: You're saying it's more than just a personal grudge between us and the Crimson Guard. Do you think it could escalate into a confrontation between the DSF and the army?! Dolf: Well... Let's not be overly pessimistic. But we need to act swiftly to avoid future trouble. Ash: ...So what do you want us to do? Dolf: As punishment we'll send you on leave away from your policing duties here in the capital. But that's just to establish your cover! The truth is that I have a top secret assignment for you... (The screen fades to black and fades back into a conference room. Ash, Diego, Clint and Clive are gathered around a large table.) Diego: So what is this top secret mission? Ash: Do you know who General Magnus Dunbar is? Diego: Of course. The greatest hero of our country! Why? Clint: He's also 2nd in line behind Hel in the Defense Ministry. Ash: Well 3 months ago he went to Gillbaris Island with a squad of hand picked soldiers and he hasn't been seen since. Clint: Gillbaris Island? In the Gadar Sea? Why? Ash: I don't know. But I've heard rumors that he was acting on secret orders from Hel who was planning a coup d'etat. Clint: That guy is out of control. Diego: And he wants us to investigate that, huh... Clint: But Magnus is known for his sense of justice. I don't think he would just blindly follow Hel Spites' orders... Clive: This secret assignment makes me uneasy... I'm still not personally sure how much we can believe this Dolf. It may be a wise idea not to accept this assignment... Ash: No. I'm going to go. If we stay here we may cause trouble for you. You've been a good friend to me. Clive: Ash, that's not why I had you assigned here! Ash: Of course I know that. But whatever Dolf's reasons may be, we can't ignore what happened to General Magnus. Clint: That's true. Diego: I wanted to take a vacation anyway. Clive: I understand... But this is a dangerous assignment. I want you to be careful every step of the way. ======= PALACE RUINS ================================================== (After leaving Shumeria and travelling to the palace ruins, we see the gang amongst old-looking columns and structures.) Ash: This was the palace of the Ashah Dynasty. Clint: 15 years ago Arris' army arrived here. This magnificent palace was burned to the ground. Even now, when it grows dark, the spirits of the dead haunt this place. Diego: Hey cut it out! You're giving me the creeps! Mysterious voice: Go back where you came from! Diego: Eeeeeeek! Mysterious voice: A curse will befall all who enter here! Ash: Don't be silly. Nothing to be afraid of. Mysterious voice: Fools! Die then if you wish! (The camera zooms out to show many Clay Golems teleporting down into the ruins.) ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN THE PALACE RUINS ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (A small girl with blonde hair emerges from behind a column. She is wearing red robes and has a staff of some sort in her hand.) Girl: My clay golems!... (She runs over to where the three soldiers are standing.) Ash: That doesn't sound like the same voice! Clint: So this is the one who created the golems... Diego: That was a pretty vicious thing to do! Girl: You're the vicious ones! Trying to make my daddy into a traitor!... Ash: Daddy?... Who are you?... Girl: Eleni Dunbar, daughter of Magnus Dunbar. Ash: General Dunbar!?! But it seems that you're misinformed. We're just trying to... Huxley: Miss Eleni! (The camera rotates to show an old man shuffle across the stone bridge. He is wearing white robes and has a long, grey beard. He is also carrying a staff.) Eleni: Huxley!... I told you not to follow me! Huxley: But Miss Eleni... Oh... Some gentlemen from the DSF, I hope she didn't bother you... Diego: 'Bother'! She tried to kill us!! (Huxley bows down to Ash and the others.) Huxley: A thousand humble pardons, my lords... I am Miss Eleni's tutor, Huxley Hobbes. It seems as if the young miss has heard some foolish rumors... Eleni: It isn't a foolish rumor! (Ash walks over to Eleni.) Ash: Please just listen to our side of the story... Some say that Magnus was planning a coup, but we never believed it! Eleni: So you think something happened to him? Ash: That's what we came to this island to find out. Eleni: I believe you. Let's get started! Huxley: Absolutely not! I won't allow it, Miss! Eleni: It's my decision! And stop calling me 'Miss'! Please Ash, I want to help my father! Let me come with you! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- * QUESTION * > 1. OK. Let's go! > 2. No you're too young! * ANSWER * > 1. OK. Let's go! Ash: OK. Let's go! But you better be able to take care of yourself! Eleni: Thanks Ash! Diego: Geez, Ash. I can't believe you! * ANSWER * > 2. No you're too young! Ash: No you're too young! This is no picnic! Eleni: Fine. I'll just go to Gillbaris Island myself. Diego: I guess we have to take her now, Ash... Ash: .................... ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Huxley: What?!!!!..... In that case, I shall be forced to go as well. Although I appear frail, I am a master of healing. You will need my help! Eleni joined your party. Huxley joined your party. Diego: Even the old guy is gonna come with us?! Oh man! ======================================================================= (The screen fades into a dark prison somewhere. Count Claymore has been chained to a post and Kane is standing in front of him. Lurking by the door is a man in grand robes and armor, his grey hair elegantly combed back across his head.) Kane: C'mon old man, tell us what you know! (Kane steps forward and hits Claymore in the face.) Count Claymore: Oooof. I... know... nothing... Hel: Don't lie, Count. As the highest ranking nobleman, you must know! Count Claymore: ............... Kane: Fool! My father heard you! How about that?! (Kane hits Claymore across the face again.) Voice: Hey it's not nice to mistreat old people. (The camera pans back to the entrance and the gates roll down. Dolf walks in and stands beside Hel Spites.) Hel: Oh, it's you. Dolf: Don't kill the old fool... yet. There is still valuable information that we require. Kane: I like you. You're almost as evil as I. Would you like to take a crack at breaking this old man? Hel: Enough, Kane! So... Dolf... How goes our little plan? Dolf: Everything is going as scheduled... Just to be sure, one of my people has even infiltrated their group. Hel: Good... Now we just have to wait for them to arrive at Gillbaris Island. Count Claymore: Gillbaris Island! No... You mustn't! Dolf: Ho ho. I knew you knew something. Count Claymore: Ooops... Kane: Now you can tell me everything you know... ======= RHINE BRIDGE ================================================== (The group has assembled on a large wooden bridge held up by thick cables. Beneath them is a fast-flowing river.) Huxley: These kinds of bridges just aren't safe. Diego: C'mon! I'm going anyway! Clint: I'm not so sure about that... (The camera pans across to the other end of the bridge where there is a large gang of thieves. They look similar to Zoot's gang, only with a darker shade of green on their clothing.) Thief: Huh? Those aren't merchants. Other thief: Don't bother me none! We can always sell their stuff for money after we kill 'em. Diego: Oboy... Where did these guys come from all of a sudden? Ash: Don't worry. Piece of cake! Thief: Hey it looks like these guys are game! Other thief: Don't worry. We won't even bloody our hands! Clint: Look out! I smell gunpowder! (The camera zooms out and the part of the bridge behind the group explodes, leaving a wide gap back to the land. The cables still hold the rest of the bridge in place.) Thief: Huh? I missed. Well that's okay. This bridge will collapse soon anyway. They're headed for the bottom of the river. Huxley: This is not good. Ash: Let's cross this bridge before it collapses! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE ON THE RHINE BRIDGE ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * EVERY TURN * (A piece of the bridge will explode every turn. Any units, allies or enemies, are killed if they are standing on the part of the bridge as it explodes.) * AFTER 1 ROUND * Diego: Eleni, why don't you whip out some golems now? Eleni: Don't you remember? You destroyed them all! Do you know how long it took me to make those golems? One year to form them from the mud and two years to give them life! Diego: Okay okay, I got it... Next time you should make them a little more durable! Eleni: Hmph! * AFTER 2 ROUNDS * (An female archer dressed in pink garments appears on the other side of the bridge.) Female warrior: Looks like you guys could use some help! Ash: Who are you? Female warrior: My name's Kira Wulfstan. Let's fight together. * WHEN KIRA ATTACKS * Kira: Suck on this, brigand! Ash: What a fighter! * VICTORY * (Having killed all of the thieves, the group assemble on the safety of the land the other side of the bridge.) Ash: I'm Ash Lambert... Thanks for helping us. Kira: I'm Kira. A mercenary. Diego: A fierce warrior and a beauty as well. I think I'm in love... Clint: That's rude Diego. Kira: That's okay. Want to hire me as a bodyguard? It looks like you only have this one cute guy as your basic archer class. I'll bet you could use another archer in your party. How about it? Diego: He he. She called me cute! You're a fine archer! We welcome you to our party, right Ash? ----------------------------------------------------------------------- * QUESTION * > 1. Of course we do. > 2. But... * ANSWER * > 1. Of course we do. Ash: Of course we do. You'll be a great help. Diego: Now things are getting interesting! * ANSWER * > 2. But... Ash: But this is a top secret mission! Diego: So what?! What about Eleni and the old man? Ash: Okay... That's a good point. She can come. Diego: Yahoo! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Clint: Are you sure, Ash? We shouldn't involve some woman who we hardly know. Kira: Oh yeah? Well I bet I'm a match for even you! Clint: It's not your strength that I'm questioning... Diego: You sound like a grumpy old man, Clint! Clint: ............... Ash: The sun will set soon... Let's make camp. ======================================================================= (Night-time, Ash is standing beside the river playing a soothing melody on a small instrument (I think it's an ocarina). Eleni slowly wanders down and waits nearby for him to finish playing.) Eleni: That's beautiful... Ash: Oh... It's you. Couldn't sleep? Eleni: I want to apologize for forcing you to take me. Ash: Well I understand you're worried about your dad. But you should know that it's possible that your dad really is a traitor. It's also possible that he has reasons that neither of us know about. I want you to be ready to judge for yourself when the time comes. Eleni: ...I know what you're trying to say but I trust my father completely! Ash: ............... (There is a long pause as Ash and Eleni both watch the river flow by.) Eleni: The truth is... I'm adopted. 15 years ago, Magnus found me. My parents had been killed in the war and I couldn't remember who I was or what my name was. But Magnus loved me as if I was his own flesh and blood. That's why I'll always trust my father even if no one else does. Ash: That's beautiful. I'm jealous of you... Eleni: You don't trust your father? Ash: He died during the Revolution. Eleni: I'm so sorry! Ash: No. Don't be sorry. He doesn't deserve it. My father was a soldier in the Liberation Army, but he switched sides and died a traitor's death. My mother and I faced constant humiliation... After mother died I fell apart and only Commander Beckett trusted me. He saved me from myself... Eleni: Mr. Lambard... Ash: Anyway, I didn't mean to bore you with that... Please call me Ash. Okay Eleni? Eleni: Sure... Ash and you can call me Eleni. Sweet dreams, Ash. Ash: Goodnight, Eleni... (Ash watches as Eleni walks back to where she came from. He folds his arms and closes his eyes.) ======= PORT CITY MINATO ============================================== Ash: We need to find a ship to take us to Gillbaris Island. Let's go to the tavern and ask around. Clint: Hmm... It's strange. Last time I was here, this was a lively and bustling port city... ======= PORT CITY MINATO TAVERN ======================================= (Ash and the others go to the tavern and talk to the people there. If you try to leave the bar, the bartender stops you.) Bartender: Wait a minute! There is one chance... Nah... Forget it! He'd never do it! Ash: Tell me! What? Bartender: Well his name is Grog Drinkwater... He was a great sailor once, but his younger brother was killed by Hassan the Pirate and he hasn't been the same since... Ash: Let's go have a talk with this fellow Grog... ======= GROG'S HOUSE ================================================== (A small house with bottles of drink all over the place. A man is sitting on the rug in the middle of the room, gulping down drink from a bottle, which is supposedly alcohol. There is a knock at the door, but the man ignores it.) Ash: Excuse me?... (There are three more knocks on the door, and the man doesn't even look away from his drink.) Ash: Anybody home?... (Three more knocks and still no response.) Ash: I'm coming in. (The door opens and Ash, Diego and Clint all walk inside. Still, the man continues to drink, apparently oblivious to the world around him.) Diego: Man, this place stinks of wine! Grog: You bust into my place and then mouth off?! Ash: Sorry, we knocked but no one answered. Grog: Stupid punks!!! I didn't answer cause I didn't wanna be bothered! Clint: Well we're here anyway. We want to hire you and your ship to take us to Gillbaris Island. Of course we will pay you handsomely. Grog: Gillbaris Island?!... Even you strangers must have heard the rumors of Hassan the Pirate! If ya don't wanna die, you'll forget about goin' there! Ash: We're not leaving until you agree to take us... (The screen fades to black, then fades back in again. The room has got darker. They must have been waiting a long time...) Grog: ...C'mon already. We'd never make it there! Ash: We can protect you from those sea dogs. Grog: Okay. I'll make a deal with you. If you guys are strong enough to defeat the monster livin' in the sand dunes outside of town, I'll think about it. Ash: Okay. It's a deal. Diego: Ash, you don't even know what the heck it is! (Ash and Clint ignore Diego and leave the house, and the archer quickly hurries after them.) Grog: Don't get your fool selves killed... ======= SAND DUNES OF SEA ============================================= (The group are standing on the sand fields, dead trees here and there. It looks like a vast desert.) Huxley: Oh this sand is killing my flat feet! Eleni: I told you not to come along! Kira: By the way, what kind of monster is it? Clint: Huh? There's something moving under the sand! (The camera rotates to show six clawed hands burrowing out of the sand. In the middle of them, a large insectoid monster head emerges and the sand raises to form a hill with the monster's head at the top.) Huxley: Oh no! It's a bug!... I detest bugs!!! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE ON THE SAND DUNES OF SEA ** VICTORY = Defeat of monster DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * EVERY ROUND * (Any arms which have been killed previously are resurrected in the corners of the battlefield.) * AFTER 1 ROUND * Ash: We're gonna have to aim for its head! * VICTORY * (To the next scene...) ======= GROG'S HOUSE ================================================== (Ash, Diego and Clint are back in Grog's house. This time the man seems to have tidied up the place. He is no longer drinking and the bottles have been cleared up. Also he is... STANDING!!) Grog: I never thought you guys were really gonna do it. Clint: So that means you'll take us now, right? (Grog turns around and steps away, revealing a mighty sword and shield on his back. The camera swivels round to show us his face.) Grog: ............... Let me sleep on it, okay? Diego: Sleep on it?! You promised! Ash: Hold on... (There is a brief pause.) Ash: We'll accept your answer tomorrow, but let me just say one thing... Whoever it is you've lost, drinking won't bring them back... Just remember that... (Ash, Diego and Clint leave the house. Diego pauses for a moment to look back at Grog, then follows the others. After the front door has closed, Grog bows his head.) Grog: ...Little brother... I'm sorry... ======================================================================= The next day... (The four men are back in Grog's house.) Grog: All right. I'll take you! Ash: Thanks a lot! Grog: I thought about what you said and you were right. Grog joined your party. Grog: The ships docked just outta town... ======= GADAR SEA ===================================================== (Out in the ocean with no land in sight, a large ship sails past and we can see a number of menacing-looking pirates on board. It sails alongside Grog's ship and two bridges extend from the side, joining the two vessels.) Grog: Ha! I knew he'd show up! Ash: That's Hassan the Pirate? (The camera swings round to focus on Hassan, a muscle-bound pirate with a long ponytail, tanned skin and a gigantic axe in his hands.) Hassan: Been too long since we seen some action! Pirate: You're so famous that no ships even try to come through anymore. Look! This is no trader, but there's 2 women! Hassan: Eh? Who's that?! Grog: I've come to avenge my friends! Hassan: You really want to fight me!?! Pirate: Master? What's the problem? Hassan: Ho... Ho... No problems... Let's fight then! You ran away while you're friends died [sic] one by one! No drunken good for nothing has-been can fight me and live! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN THE GADAR SEA ** VICTORY = Defeat of Hassan DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * Hassan: Argh! Brother... (The screen fades to black. When it fades back in, Hassan is laying on the deck of his ship, wounded. The others are all around him and Grog is kneeling beside him.) Hassan: Oooof... Ss... Strong... Always stronger... me Grog: Fool... You goddamn fool! Diego: ?!... What's going on here? Clint: He said his brother was killed by pirates.... But in reality Hassan was his brother?! Hassan: Ever since we were kids, I was always trying to catch up to you... Always trying to be stronger, tougher than you... For a while I thought I had passed you, but I was just a filthy pirate... I'm sorry for what I did to your friends!... Ugh! Grog: It's okay now... Try to relax!... Hassan: I wish I could go back... Do it over again... I... just... got... tired of... chasing you... Good bye.......... (The group watches as Hassan's breathing lessens and he dies. Grog bows his head and closes his eyes. The screen fades to black.) (When it fades back in, Grog is standing at the back of his ship, staring out into the ocean. Ash approaches him from behind.) Ash: I'm sorry, Grog. I got you involved with no idea of what I was doing... (Grog turns around, smiling.) Grog: No... It was a good thing. Didn't you notice how peaceful his face looked in death? He wanted to die... by my hand. He was consumed by guilt! I knew how he felt, but I ran away from it. I'm glad he's finally free! Ash: ............... Grog: Don't worry about it! You got yer own problems. Anyway, I want to come with ya. I have no life back there and I can see you'll need my help! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT I: A PREMONITION OF WAR END ======================================================================= ======================================================================= Gillbaris Island.... Over the centuries, this tiny island in the Gadar Sea has given rise to numerous myths and legends. It is called the Island of Ancient Mysteries and has been the subject of much speculation over the years. It is the island of General Magnus' disappearance and it is here that Ash and his companions now venture. ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT II: ISLAND OF MADNESS ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (Fade in to show the group on the outskirts of a small town with tiny huts and wooden fences.) Grog: So here we are. The island's only city. Kira: But there's something wrong with this place! (The camera pans across the village. There are stone statues of weird beasts here and there and the villagers are all facing the group. Their skin is an unnatural green and their eyes are red. They are all holding dangerous-looking sharp farming tools.) Villager: Interlopers! (Pans across to an old man, also green.) Villagers: Interlopers are here! (Pans across to a young woman.) Villager: Kill the interlopers! (Pans across to another woman.) Villagers: Kill them! (Pans across to a young man.) Villager: Kill them all! (The camera finally pans back to the group.) Huxley: Not exactly what I'd call a warm reception... Eleni: Oooh!... There's an evil and malicious force coming from those statues! (The camera zooms across to one of the stone beasts and we hear an eerie wailing noise, then pans back to the group.) Clint: They're being controlled by those statues?! Ash: Destroy the statues but spare the villagers! Diego: Easy to say, but what if they attack us? Clint: The blocks can be used to slow them down. Push the blocks to guide them and maybe we can avoid killing them. ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN YUZU VILLAGE ** VICTORY = Destruction of statues DEFEAT = Death of Ash and villagers ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (The group are bunched up in the middle of the village and still the zombie-like villagers are advancing upon them slowly.) Diego: We destroyed the statues but they keep coming! Eleni: Don't be so sure. Take a look! (There is a bright white glow and when it fades, the villagers have returned to normal, their skin regular colour and their eyes normal.) Villager: Huh... Where are we... What's going on?... Villager: It was like a horrible nightmare... Villager: Yech! My mouth tastes terrible! Ash: Ha ha! Well I'm glad you're better now. (The screen fades to black and then back in to the interior of a building, presumably in the village. The group are standing inside with a few of the villagers.) Mayor: Thank you for saving us! Ash: What happened to you anyway? Mayor: It all started 3 months ago... It started when soldiers came from the mainland to do an investigation. Clint: That must have been Magnus! Mayor: Yes! That was his name, Magnus! Diego: You said they came to investigate...? Mayor: Yes. The ruins of a fortress... But we never go near it... Ash: Why is that? Mayor: There are many scary legends about the ruins Some say they can see flickering lights or hear strange wailing... When Magnus told us why he had come, we tried to convince him not to go. But he just laughed at all our warnings... A few weeks went by as usual, and then one night... (The screen fades out and then in to show the same building. The mayor is standing alone inside when a villager rushes in.) Man: Mayor... Monsters... A whole bunch of 'em!!! Mayor: What are you talking about?! (The man runs to the back of the room as three creatures run inside. They have pink and purple armor and strange white eyes. Each one is carrying a curved knife in each hand.) Man: Aaaaahhhhh!!! Mayor: What in hell's name are you! (Another creature enters the building. It looks exactly like General Magnus only his armor is also pink and purple and his skin has turned purple. His eyes are glowing white and his armor is shimmering in an eerie way.) Mayor: You... I know you!!! (Beams of energy fly through the air around Magnus and three beams which look like electricity fire from his hand into the mayor and the villager. One is green, one blue and the other purple.) Mayor: Uggghhhh!... (The villagers' skin has turned green like when Ash and the others first met them. The screen glows white. When it fades we are back in the room with the group in the present again.) Ash: And you don't remember anything after that... Mayor: That's right... And yet I'm certain that it was Magnus that did this to us... Clint: It seems hard to believe and yet... Ash: We have to go to the ruins to check things out I know it's dangerous, but there's no other way! (Fade out. Player is free to explore the village and leave the town when they are ready.) ======= YGDRA CANYON=================================================== (There is a bridge with over a narrow but fast-flowing river. Three people run up to the bridge and then back and forth as if in panic. One of them is wearing silver knight armor, one is an archer and is wearing a blue outfit, and the other one is female and wears long white robes. The archer is the first to speak.) Amon: It's no good!... We're finished! Dolan: Don't give up! Over that bridge and we'll soon be in Yuzu Village. Amon: But what if they've taken the village too?! Sara: Enough, Amon! You're too pessimistic! Dolan: Uh oh! They've caught us! (Eight of the pink/purple creatures from the village and one dog appear nearby.) Dolan: I'll distract them while you two get away! Sara: We won't leave you alone! Amon: Look! Some strangers have arrived! (The camera pans across to the other side of the river where Ash and the others have arrived.) Huxley: Those people are under attack by demons! Ash: We're coming to save you! Hang on! Dolan: We'll try! Dolan joined your party. Amon joined your party. Sara joined your party. Diego: But how are we gonna get to the other side? (The camera shows that the river near Dolan and the others is, in fact, an aqueduct with a closing function. It is over another wider river.) Kira: If we can shut off the flow of water in the aqueduct, we can cross. Look for a switch! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN YGDRA CANYON ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash or Dolan ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (The group are standing by the aqueduct with their new-found companions.) Dolan: We owe you our lives... Eleni: Captain Dolan!... You're Captain Dolan! Dolan: Well if it isn't Miss Eleni! Ash: You know each other? Eleni: Yes. Captain Dolan is one of my father's men. Clint: Tell us Captain, what were those monsters? (Dolan and Sara look at each other, then Dolan and Amon.) Dolan: Those are my men trans- formed into monsters. And they are being led by General Magnus. Eleni: I don't believe you! You lie! Dolan: I'm sorry Eleni, but it's the truth. Ash: ...Well anyway, this place isn't safe. Let's go back to Yuzu Village. ======= YUZU VILLAGE ================================================== (The group are all inside the building in the village.) Dolan: Let me try to explain the whole story. As you know, we came to investigate the ruins on this island. We were sent after stone tablets, indicating that these ruins are the site of Toroah's Ark, were discovered! Diego: 'Toroah's Ark'? From the Holy Tome? Dolan: I know it's hard to believe, but this has tremendous political significance for the new government. (Clint steps forward.) Clint: Wait... I think I understand... The Ashah Dynasty claims to be descended from Toroah who used the Ark to survive the Great Calamity. Discovery of the Ark would provide evidence that Toroah is no legend. If the story of Toroah is real, then the Ashah Dynasty has a rightful claim to rule Ishtaria. Dolan: That's correct. Furthermore, with all of the recent terrorist attacks, we thought that this kind of news might cause a mass riot. That's why we came to this island secretly. Diego: I see why you came here. But where did those monsters come from? (Dolan looks at Amon and Sara and they look back at him.) Dolan: I'm not exactly sure myself. We were only away for a short time, but something happened. When we got back and saw how they had transformed, we tried to escape but they captured us. It wasn't until today that we managed to escape. Ash: So there's no clues as to what happened? Dolan: It's possible that Magnus had a secret mission. He did seem to be searching for something in particular... (The screen fades out and the player is free to explore Yuzu. The following occurs when you try to leave the village...) Dolan: Wait a moment, Ash. If you're going to the ruins, I'd like to go with you. Unlike the villagers, the soldiers can't be cured. There's no other way, so I'll free them from their nightmare with my own blade. Sara: I'm going too! If I don't, I'll regret if for the rest of my life. You're going too, right Amon? Amon: We just escaped and you want to go back there?! Sara: You're going to make me go alone? Amon: OK I got it! I'll go too... ======= LORIS BEACH =================================================== (The group are on some dead wastelands with bubbling purple pools all around them.) Sara: Enemies! Not too many, but... (The camera pans around the battlefield showing various monsters ahead of them all.) Amon: Uh oh! There are more behind us! Kira: I'll take care of the ones back here! (Kira walks off behind the group to the monsters.) Clint: Don't be a fool! (Clint chases after her. After he passes a small hill, two zombie- soldiers appear from behind it and then two golems teleport in.) Dolan: Damn! There's still more! Huxley: We're totally surrounded! Ash: Stick together or we'll never get out of here! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE ON LORIS BEACH ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * AFTER 1 ROUND * Ash: Look out for the poisonous areas! * VICTORY * (Ash, Diego, Huxley and Dolan are sitting around a camp fire at night.) Ash: There's one thing I don't understand... How can these fortress ruins also be Toroah's Ark? Dolan: I don't completely understand either, but the idea of an Ark may be the result of a bad translation from the ancient language of Dhuron. Huxley: Hmmm. If there really was a 'Great Calamity' as is written, then the people would have been more likely to go inside a fortress rather than a ship! Diego: By the way, where did Kira go? Huxley: Hmmm. Clint isn't around either... Diego: That creep... I saw her first! (Diego walks off and the screen fades to black. It fades back in to show Clint and Kira standing by a river or lake.) Kira: I hope you called me here for a good reason! Clint: A warning... You fight too recklessly! Kira: I think I've proven my prowess in battle... Clint: Oh I admit that you're a first class warrior. You fight as if you have nothing to lose. There's a sadness to you... It's almost as if you don't care whether you live or die. Kira: ............... Clint: Well... That's all I wanted to say. (He starts to walk away.) Kira: Wait! (Clint stops.) Kira: I guess I should thank you for saving me today. Clint: ............... (Clint walks away and Diego passes his as he enters. He looks back to watch Clint leave, then walks over to Kira.) Diego: Did you two have some kind of fight? I looked everywhere for you. Kira: He's a self-righteous jerk! Diego: Before you say that, listen to this story... He saw his lover slain right in front of his own eyes. Kira: By the gods!... (Diego walks down to the water.) Diego: It's been almost 3 years now... The scum who did it had a grudge against Clint, and Clint knew it... Bastard shot her and galloped away... All in front of Clint... He still blames himself for not preventing it. It eats him up inside... That's why he tends to come on a little strong. Cause he cares so much. Kira: I had no idea... ======= CASTLE RUINS ================================================== Ash: We've finally arrived. Eleni: Father is somewhere in there... (The camera rotates to show a wide fortress guarded by lots of monsters and zombified soldiers. There are two elevators leading up to the top of the fortress.) Amon: We need to use that lift machine to get inside. Let's split into two groups so we can use the lifts on either side. Ash: Good. We'll meet in front of the entrance! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE OUTSIDE CASTLE RUINS ** VICTORY = Arrival at entrance DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (The group are standing at the entrance to the ruins at the top of some stone steps.) Clint: We made it. Diego: Yeah, but what's next? Grog: Are you sure we're ready, Ash? ----------------------------------------------------------------------- * QUESTION * > 1. Let's head back... > 2. We're ready to go. * ANSWER * > 1. Let's head back... Ash: Let's head back and resupply. * ANSWER * > 2. We're ready to go. Ash: We're ready to go. Stay alive everybody! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ======================================================================= (Fade to the interior of the ruins. Observant players will notice that this is the temple from the very first scene of Vandal Hearts. Magnus is standing in the middle of the hall with his back to the group.) Ash: General Magnus! Magnus: ............... Eleni: Daddy! (Eleni rushes forward towards Magnus.) Ash: Eleni, wait!! Magnus: L...Leni is it you? Eleni: Yes daddy! (Magnus bends over and begins to glow brightly.) Magnus: No!!!..... Get away from me!!! Eleni: Daddy, what is it?... Magnus: Hurry... I can't resist much longer!... Eleni: Daddy... What's happening to you?! Magnus: ............... Eleni: Daddy! Daddy!!! Dolan: He can't hear you! Get out of there! (Explosions of all different colours erupt around Magnus and he flashes and flickers. When the explosions die down, he has purple skin like the monstrous soldiers. White rays burst out of him and Eleni falls back.) Eleni: Ayaaah!!! (Magnus disappears and re-appears at the far end of the hall.) Magnus: ...Will... kill... you... all...!! (White rays shoot towards him and a large bronze rune image appears. A beam of purple light shoots up into the sky with strange runes flying around. The camera zooms out and many monsters appear in the hall.) Ash: We have no choice but to fight him! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE INSIDE CASTLE RUINS ** VICTORY = Defeat of Magnus DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * Magnus: Gwaaaaahhhhh!!! (Magnus falls to the ground.) Magnus: Uhhh... (The group are run to him as the evil colour fades from his skin. Eleni and Dolan kneel beside him.) Eleni: Daddy, don't die! Magnus: Uhhh... Dolan: He's back to normal! Magnus: Magic stone's curse... Finally ...broken? Ash: Magic stone? What's that? Magnus: I was sent here to retrieve the stone... But he never told me what could happen... Ash: Who is 'he'? Magnus: He used me... It was all his doing... (There is a silent pause as the group wait. Suddenly an arrow soars through the air from off-screen and lands in Magnus' chest.) Magnus: Aaargh! Eleni: Nooo! Daddy, no! Dolan: General! (Ash steps forward.) Ash: It's you!!! (The screen pans down as Kane and six Crimson Guard soldiers enter the temple ruins and surround the group.) Kane: Hey, don't be so mad! I came to help you! Eleni: Hang in there, daddy! Dolan: Don't worry. I don't think it hit any vitals. Kane: Darn, we missed. Ash: You bastard! Man's voice: Well done, Ash my boy. Ash: I should have known you were behind this! (Kane steps aside as Dolf enters and bows before Magnus briefly.) Dolf: Tee hee hee... Great job, Ash. You and your men can be proud! Thanks to you, Magnus' coup d'etat plans have been stopped. Ash: What?! Dolf: You truly deserve the title of 'hero'. And now... Eleni Dunbar and Huxley Hobbes... You are under arrest as followers of the traitor Magnus. Come with us. (Dolf starts to leave but stops.) Diego: But you can't just... Dolf: Of course I can! Eleni: Leave us alone! Can't you see he's hurt! (A Crimson Guard soldier approaches Magnus but Ash stands in his way.) Ash: Back off! Dolf: Ash my naive friend... As you know, interfering with us is tantamount to treason... Think well on whether you want to be known as a hero or whether you want to be known as a traitor like your father! Ash: ............... Diego: Don't worry Ash, we're behind you! Clint: Yeah! We know who's really behind this! Ash: ............... Dolf: Glory or shame, Ash. Which will it be? Ash: .....Okay. You win. Do as you will... (Clint rushes towards Ash.) Clint: Ash!!! Diego: Ash, you can't!... Ash: Put aside your weapons... We're officers who have sworn loyalty to the state... Dolf: Ho ho ho. A very wise decision Ash my boy... We're going to tour the ruins a few more days. In the meantime, put the prisoners in the dungeon downstairs. Diego: Ash, what's wrong with you? Say something! Ash: ............... Dolf: Ho ho ho. Ha ha ha. Hee hee hee... Cough. ======================================================================= (Fade to Loris Beach at night. Ash is wandering along by himself.) Man's voice: Ash!! (Clint appears and walks over to Ash.) Clint: Where are you going this time of the night? Ash: Clint... (Diego also appears and joins them.) Diego: You don't think we'd let you go alone, do you? (Enter Grog, who also walks over to Ash.) Grog: You're not as quiet as you think... Ash: Diego and Grog, too? Clint: You should have let us in on your plan... Ash: I didn't want to involve you all in this... There's no need for all of you to be labeled as traitors. Grog: We're already involved up to our necks! Besides, without you I'd just be a washed up old drunk... I want to do the right thing! I want to make my dead brother proud! (The screens pans across as Dolan, Amon and Sara wander across the beach and join the ever-increasing group of people.) Sara: What's everyone doing out here? Amon: Taking a midnight dip in the water? Dolan: Ha ha. We were planning the same. Clint: Ash, we're with you. You're our leader, just tell us what to do! Ash: Ha! Well it looks like we're in it together! Let's go and save Magnus and the others! Grog: Now you're talkin'! Diego: It's about time! (The screen pans down to show Kira standing behind a nearby tree, then fades to black.) ======= CASTLE RUINS ================================================== (Darkness has fallen. The group are gathered at the castle ruins where they had fought not long ago.) Sara: Magnus must be in the same dungeon we were in. So we should be able to just go back the same way we escaped. Grog Whoops... I got bad news... We've been spotted by guard dogs! (The camera swivels around to show a large group of menacing-looking guard dogs with spiked armor on their backs. It zooms back to Ash.) Ash: If those dogs raise a racket... It'll blow any chance of stealth we might've had! Let's take 'em out fast! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE OUTSIDE DUNGEON ** VICTORY = Conquest within 6 turns DEFEAT = Death of Ash or time up ======================================================================= * AFTER 1 ROUND * Ash: Make sure you cut off their retreat! * AFTER 3 ROUNDS * Ash: We're running out of time! * VICTORY * (Cut to a dark cell. Magnus is lying on the floor and Eleni is knelt down beside him. Huxley stands by his head.) Magnus: Oooohhh... Eleni: Try to be strong, daddy! Magnus: Eleni... I was a fool... I sent all my men to their deaths... For what?! (Eleni shakes her head furiously.) Eleni: It's not your fault! You were possessed! Magnus: I wish that were so... The Magic Stone isn't good or evi, it is only pure power... It just magnifies the user's true nature. When I touched the stone and felt its powers, I was seduced by my own demons... I let the power consume me... It's all my fault. Eleni: Why father? Why did you look for this stone? Magnus: To resist Hel Spites. I'm certain that Hel is planning a coup d'etat in the near future. I knew that in order to stop him, I would need more power... I was desperate and that desperation led me down the wrong path... We must get the stone back! It holds a frightening secret... (Huxley turns his head, then slowly walks over to the iron bars which block their exit.) Huxley: Someone's coming! (He stands back as the bars slide down and Ash strides in. Eleni jumps to her feet.) Eleni: Ash!... How did you?... Ash: Forget about it. Let's get outta here! (As the screen fades to black, Ash and Huxley walk over to Magnus. It fades back in to show the entire group and Magnus gathered outside of the dungeon where they had fought just minutes ago.) Magnus: Wait! We've got to get the Magic Stone! The person pulling Dolf's strings is Hel Spites! We can't let that madman get his hands on the stone! Man's voice: So you finally caught on, did you? (The camera swivels round as six Crimson Guard soldiers, Dolf and Hel Spites come marching across the field and stop before Ash and Magnus.) Hel: But you're too late now, Magnus! Magnus: What do you mean?... Dolf: I've got that stone you want right here! A grunt like you can't appreciate the true power of this stone. But I on the other hand... Magnus: You pampered little poodle!... You knew what that stone was going to do to me, didn't you?! Hel: You reap what you sow, General! You came here to betray me and you deserve what happens to you! Ash: That means that... We were just part of your scheme to frame General Magnus?! Dolf: Ho ho. Exactly! I'm disappointed in you, Ash. Your feelings led you the wrong way. Not that it would have mattered anyway... Let me introduce you to my beautiful young assistant. (The camera rotates to show Kira walking towards the group without her battle armor and bow.) Ash: Kira!! Clint: Kira... How could you? Kira: ............... Dolf: Thanks to her, I knew all your moves. Hahaha... Well, I think it's just about time for you to die. Magnus: I won't allow that! (Bright multi-coloured explosions errupt around Magnus' body and when they die down he has transformed into his possessed monster self from the castle ruins. He raises his arms and purple rays of energy fire from his eyes at Dolf, who points his hands at Magnus, sending blue rays in his direction. The rays clash between the two men, creating bright blue spirals of burning energy. They are locked in this position for about twenty seconds, the others watching powerless.) Dolf: You still retain some power from the stone?! Magnus: I...willl...stop...you! Dolf: No, we're tearing a hole in the time-space fabric! (With a mystifying roar, a dark blue warp hole grows from the point where the rays meet. In the middle of the hole are two runic symbols, one bronze and one blue, rotating and spinning randomly. They slowly move towards Magnus.) Magnus: Aaaaaaahhhhh!!!!! (The warp hole reaches Magnus.) Magnus: Iiiiyahhhh!!! (Magnus is sucked into the hole.) Ash: Wooooaaahhh!!! (Ash is also sucked in.) Grog: Ugh! What the!... (Grog is next.) Sara: Eeeeeeeehhhhh!!! (Finally, Sara is sucked in. They disappear as the hole closes and the runes vanish.) Eleni: Daddy!!!... Ash!!!... (Hel leans back and begins laughing.) Hel: Heh heh heh... Ho ho ho Ha ha ha Hee hee hee! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT II: ISLAND OF MADNESS END ======================================================================= ======================================================================= After the disappearance of Ash and the others, it is announced that General Magnus has been assassinated by an extremist faction within the Security Forces. News that a national hero has fallen at the hands of terrorists sends shockwaves through the country and most blame the Domestic Security Agency which controls the Security Forces. This results in the ouster of Renaldo Castille, Hel Spites' political arch rival. Defense Minister Hel Spites, highly praised for his quick handling of the terrorist threat, is elected Prime Minister the following month. In the name of national security, Hel requests emergency powers from the Council, but as soon as he is granted those powers, his tyrannical nature emerges. He abolishes the Council, creates a secret police and establishes a privileged class.. Finally, he revives imperialism and claims that he will place himself on the sacred and inviolable Ishtarian imperial throne. Realizing the danger, some citizens join anti-imperial movements, but these are easily crushed by the Crimson Guard. It was the second coming of the Dark Ages and terror reigned over all... ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT III: ESCAPE TO TOMORROW ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (As the screen fades in we see Ash and Grog standing on a very small rocky island in a lake of molten lava. In the background Sara is crouched down beside Magnus.) Grog: Where in the heck are we?! Ash: I don't think we're in Kansas anymore... (The camera pans across to Sara and Magnus.) Sara: Ash! Something's wrong with the General! (Ash and Grog hurry over.) Magnus: Oooohh... Ash: General, hang in there! Magnus: Ash... It's no good... It's the end for me... Ash: General... No... Magnus: I've stared death in the face all my life... I know what she looks like and I do not fear her cold embrace... Ash: ............... Magnus: I was raised in a poor farming village... I was going to lead the simple life, following in my father's footsteps... But then the Revolution came and our lives were thrown into turmoil. For country!... For ideals!... For liberty!... But however pretty the slogan, there's no such thing as a good war... They call me a hero, but I'm just a murderer with blood on his hands... Ash: But think of the people you saved, like Eleni! Magnus: Eleni.... 15 years ago, I found her wandering around the ruins of her town. Adopting her was my attempt to make restitution for my sins.. Ash, don't make the same mistakes I made... You must stop Hel and Dolf! Return this land to its former greatness! ...I beg you, Ash... Retrieve the Magic Stone.......... Ash: General! General Magnus!! (Magnus' body goes limp as the life fades from his soul. The screen fades to black. When it fades back in, Ash, Grog and Sara and gathered around a makeshift grave - two wooden sticks bound together to make a cross.) Grog: Too bad we had to bury him in this weird place. (Sara looks around.) Sara: Hmm... Something feels very wrong. (The camera swoops around the tiny island as evil-looking flaming skulls appear from the lava and surround them.) Grog: What are these things?! Ash: I don't know, but they're attacking! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE ON PLAIN OF SORROW ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (Ash, Sara and Grog are standing by Magnus' grave. A man approches from behind them. He is wearing long black robes and has long white hair. In his hand is a wooden staff.) Mystery man: Aha. So this is why the spirits were so noisy... Ash: Huh?... (The camera spins round and shows the man from the front.) Mystery man: You've destroyed the spirits? That was cruel. Those are the spirits of people who died young. They are harmless... Grog: Harmless?! Are you crazy? Those things tried to bite our heads off! Mystery man: They were drawn by the smell of blood. You people have the blood of many on your hands. Ash: Who are you? Mystery man: My name is Zohar and I am just as you see me. I have been exploring this strange land for some time. Just south of here is this land's only town. You should visit it. Good luck, strangers... (The camera turns back as Zohar walks away.) Grog: What a strange guy... Sara: Zohar?...Where have I heard that name before? Ash: In any case, let's go pay this town a visit. ======= REMOTE TOWN =================================================== Grog: These houses are really old looking. Sara: Not true. That house is ultra-modern! Ash: You're both right. It's both old and new... (Ash, Grog and Sara go to the tavern and speak to people, then leave.) Grog: It looks like we might be stuck here... Sara: A loophole in time... I've heard legends. The ship that was lost at sea and found 10 years later in the desert... Or the ancient princess who vanished while strolling in the garden. Ash: But we've got to get back! We promised the General that we would stop Hel and get the stone back! Zohar: Are you referring to the Magic Stone? Ash: You're the guy from before! Zohar: Yes...I am Zohar. If you don't mind, please tell me about this Magic Stone. Let's go to my home outside of town and talk of this... (Fade to a very small house where the four people are gathered.) Zohar: I see... You and your companions are trying to stop this man named Hel... But are you absolutely sure that's the right thing to do? Think about it. The generation before you gave up their lives to build an ideal society and what was the end result? We've let the Council turn into a den of thieves and liars! There will always be war, but by stopping Hel now, who is to say you won't be paving the way for someone even worse than him?! (Ash, Grog and Sara bow their heads.) Ash: Maybe you're right. (There is a pause...) Ash: But a brief peace is better than war! I can't sit and do nothing when I know that people are going to die! Zohar: Hmmmm...... I suppose it is the struggle that lends dignity to our lives... ...It's decided. I will help you in your brave mission. Zohar joined your party. Ash: So how can we...? Zohar: There's only one way to get back to your time. First we have to go back to the exact spot where you first arrived. ======= PLAIN OF SORROW =============================================== (Ash, Grog, Sara and Zohar are gathered around Magnus' grave. There are huge runic symbols on carved into the ground and four strange metallic posts with red orbs on top in all four directions.) Zohar: The preparations are complete... The space-time warp you entered was caused by a powerful magic source. This type of force always creates a counter-force. These Mage Towers will gather the force and recreate the warp! (Sara looks around.) Sara: I sense something!... (The camera zooms out and more flaming skulls appear, surrounding the group.) Grog: Not these creeps again! Zohar: Those spirits will drain the tower's energy! I suppose we have no choice! We must protect the towers! If this doesn't work now, you'll never get back home! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE ON PLAIN OF SORROW ** VICTORY = Defend towers for 5 turns DEFEAT = Death of Ash or towers ======================================================================= * EVERY ROUND * (Any spirits which have been killed previously are resurrected in the corners of the battlefield.) * AFTER 2 ROUNDS * Ash: When will the warp open up? Zohar: Just a little longer! * AFTER 1 TOWER HAS BEEN DESTROYED * Ash: Things are looking grim. * AFTER 2 TOWERS HAVE BEEN DESTROYED * Ash: They're destroying the towers! * AFTER 3 TOWERS HAVE BEEN DESTROYED * Ash: We must protect the last Mage Tower! * AFTER 4 TOWERS HAVE BEEN DESTROYED * Ash: Damn! They've destroyed them all! (Defeat.) * VICTORY * (The four characters are standing around the grave.) Zohar: The warp will open any minute now! (The blue and bronze runes appears just like before and grow.) Grog: There it is! Ash: Everyone jump in! (They jump into the middle of the warp and are shrunk to invisible specks. The warp closes behind them, leaving Magnus' grave alone in the Plains of Sorrow.) ======= TERASU VILLAGE ================================================= (Fade to a large grassy area. There is a river with a bridge and a small building on top of a hill. At the bottom of the hill are lots of men in armor with weapons. One of them is wearing pink (yes, pink) armor. He is quite fat and holds a large cutlass. It is Zoot Gach from the very beginning of the game.) Zoot: Give up, traitors! You're surrounded! (At the top of the hill next to the building we see Diego, Dolan, Clive Beckett and Huxley.) Diego: Zoot Gach, you slimebag! You may work for the Empire now, but you're still just a petty thief! Huxley: The Empire has hired criminals to swell the ranks of the army. Now these scoundrels steal from the innocent under the protection of the Empire. 'Tis a sad sight to behold. Clive: And I was foolish enough to trust Dolf... Dolan: Don't blame yourself! We all fell for it! Zoot: What's the delay! The villagers in this area are all rebel sympathizers anyway! Torch it! We'll burn all these villages to the ground! Dolan: Not while I'm alive you won't! Diego: That's double for me! Clive: We don't stand a chance!... But let's take as many of them with us as we can! (Pan to the other side of the bridge where the warp is just closing. Sara, Grog, Ash and Zohar are standing there.) Ash: Where are we? Grog: It looks like we made it back! Diego: I can't believe it!!! It's Ash!!! Clive: It can't be!... Is it really you?! Ash: Clive, my friend! Diego! Zoot: What the!! Where did they come from? Diego: Haha! Now we can turn things around! Ash, they're Hel's boys! Let's show 'em the old crunch play! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN TERASU VILLAGE ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash *NOTE* For this battle Clive is on the player's side but cannot be controlled. ======================================================================= * WHEN ZOOT GACH IS KILLED * Zoot: Gaaaach! * VICTORY * (The group are stood beside the river.) Ash: Commander... Clive. Well met! Clive: Ash! Beyond hope... But where have you been these past 3 miserable years! Grog: 3 years! We've only been gone 1 day! Zohar: The truth is we're lucky to have come this close! We might have easily been off by 20 years or more! Sara: It can't be true... Clive: Let's go back to the village and talk it out! (Fade to the inside of a small building with a large wooden table in the middle. Ash, Diego, Dolan and Clive are stood around it.) Ash: So that's what happened while I've been gone... Clive: Many good people want to resist Emperor Hel... But all of their leaders have been either executed or exiled. If only we could bring everyone under the same banner... Ash: Let's do it!! We'll set off some fire- works that will rouse the resistance from sleep! Diego: Fireworks, huh? What's the plan? Ash: We'll storm the Imperial prison! Clive: The one that they brag is impenetrable?! (Dolan nods.) Dolan: It would be a great victory for the rebels! That's where they hold the political prisoners. If we could free them, we might finally be able to organize ourselves. Diego: Clint, Eleni and Amon are being held their too! It's perfect. Two birds with one stone! Dolan: I think we should try it. (They all nod.) Ash: I'll lead the troops during the actual attack. Clive, I want you to start trying to galvanize the resistance. Clive: I understand. Diego: Things are just starting to get interesting! ======= BASIL GATE ===================================================== Dolan: We've got to pass here to reach the prison. (Pan to the other side of the gate where numerous soldiers and monsters are waiting.) Sara: They're not going to just let us pass... Ash: They're not expecting us so let's hit 'em hard! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE AT BASIL GATE ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (Fade to a palace room with a long table and valuable-looking ornaments. At the head of the table is Hel Spites. Also at the table are Dolf, Kane and three other men.) Hel: Dolf, fill everyone in. Dolf: First take a look at this. (The camera swivels round as Dolf takes a jar from his cloak. Inside the jar on a rich velvet cushion is the Magic Stone.) Dolf: As you can see, this is the Magic Stone that has everyone so excited. The Empire's greatest scientific minds have been studying this stone. They found that this stone is from when the universe was born! It contains a spark of the original Flames of Judgment! Financier: The Flames of Judgment? Are you insane? Dolf: No. It's the same power that we've all heard of. The power that brought this world to the very edge of destruction! Financier: Don't make me laugh! I admit that the stone is unusual. But I don't believe that it has the power to evaporate entire cities or destroy the world! Dolf: You're right. Currently something called the Royal Ring is keeping its true power in check. Financier: The Royal Ring?... Dolf: Remember your history. Toroah saved the world by sealing the Flames of Judgment with a ring. This ring was passed on to his descendants along with a holy command. They were to found a country to protect this holy ring at all costs. This was the Holy Ashah Dynasty's task! But at some point they forgot. 18 years ago when the royal family was cast down, the ring was lost. Kane: So you want us to find this ring, huh? Well I don't like it! The Crimson Guard are all the power we need to rule this country! Hel: Kane, listen to me for a minute. Oppressing the people is easy, but ruling them is a different thing. Kane, you and I are strong. We make our own path in life. But most people are weak, relying on the power of religion or government to protect them. These weaklings need symbols to follow. What better symbol to rule the people then the Flames of Judgment? It's time for us to unify this continent under one banner! We must find the Royal Ring. Search this land from high to low! (Gradually fade to Kira alone in another palace room, unarmed.) Kira: Clint... Dolf: What are you feeling sad about, Kira? (Dolf approaches.) Kira: Oh!... Master Dolf... (Dolf walks closer to Kira.) Dolf: You still feel bad about betraying your friends? Kira: No..... Dolf: Hmmm... I wonder. I wonder if you have what it takes to get your revenge. Have you forgotten what they did to your family? Kira: Of course I haven't forgotten... Dolf: Kira, I know exactly how you feel... But people must realize what's happening in this country. Hel and his minions are sacrificing countless innocents and for what? All to pursue his insane goal of world domination. Kira: !!!............... Dolf: I'll make my move soon. I need your support! Kira: I'll help, Master Dolf. (Kira walks over to the double doors, opens them and leaves. Dolf steps over to the window and waits for a moment. Suddenly, a figure in black and gold armor warps in. He wears a metallic helmet which shows only his eyes, nose and mouth and holds a staff with a skull on top.) Xeno: Dangerous my lord... Dolf: Eh?! Xeno!!... Xeno: You put too much trust in that girl! Dolf: Take care how you speak to me! Xeno: Forgive me... (Xeno bows to Dolf.) Dolf: But as long as you mention it... I'd like you to keep an eye on her for a while. (Xeno straightens up.) Xeno: It shall be as you command. (Xeno warps away and Dolf is alone again.) Dolf: ............... ======= REED HIGHWAY =================================================== (The group are all assembled in the middle of the road. Diego runs towards them.) Diego: We've got trouble, Ash! An enemy patrol is heading this way! (Pan to further up the road where a group of imperial soldiers are, lead by Lando.) Ash: If they spot us we lose the element of surprise. Zohar: Once they see the gate, they'll know anyway. Dolan: In either case, we can't let them leave here... Ash: Hide behind the trees. If we move, they'll notice us and flee for sure. Wait until the time is right and hit 'em with everything you got! (The group split up to opposite sides of the highway and hide in amongst the trees. Huxley runs further down the road to the switch controlling a large bridge.) ======================================================================= ** BATTLE AT REED HIGHWAY ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash / Enemy escape ======================================================================= * AFTER 1 TURN * Ash: Wait until they're a little closer... * AFTER 2 TURNS * Ash: ............... * AFTER 3 TURNS * Ash: Just a tiny bit longer... * WHEN THE PLAYERS MOVE ANY OF THE UNITS * Lando: What are rebels doing around here?! They can't be planning to attack the prison, can they?! Somebody! Get away from here fast and warn the others! (All of Lando's units retreat.) * WHEN LANDO IS KILLED * Lando: Wahhh!... Kane, avenge me!... ======= PRISON FORTRESS ================================================ (Inside the prison Clint is locked in a cell with another short, plump, balding man with funny little glasses. Two jailers approaching with Count Claymore between them. They open the cell door and push him inside.) Jailer: I've got a new friend for ya! Enjoy! (The jailer kicks Claymore in the back and he collapses in the cell on the floor. Clint and the other man rush over to him.) Clint: Hang in there, old man! Count Claymore: Ooohhhh..... Darius: (the other man) Horrible... Treating an old man like that... Count Claymore: Where... Where am I? Darius: The dungeon. Don't worry... we're friendly. My name is Darius. I'm a tinkerer by trade. I quarreled with a soldier... Next thing I know I'm in here. The big guy here calls himself Clint... Clint: !!... I know you. You're Count Claymore. Darius: You two know each other? Count Claymore: Yes. But I'm sorry, I don't... Clint: The riot in the Dover District... Count Claymore: Oh yes. From the Security Forces. Clint: But what have you done to be beaten like this? Count Claymore: They're frantically searching... Searching for the Royal Ring... Clint: The Royal Ring? Count Claymore: It has the power to tame the Magic Stone. Clint: Magic Stone? Please tell me what you know! (Fade to black. When the screen fades back in Claymore has been propped against one of the walls.) Clint: So that's the history of the Magic Stone... Count Claymore: I truly don't know where the ring is either. But it must not be used for evil or it will be the end of the world! (Darius turns his head to the cell gate. He walks over and peers down the corridor.) Darius: Footsteps!.. The jailer again? (Clint rises to his feet as Kira approaches, opens the gate and enters.) Clint: You!!... Kira: Clint... They're planning to execute you tomorrow! (She pulls a set of keys out from behind her back.) Kira: Here are the keys. I have weapons outside. Take me with you! (Kira throws the keys on to the floor in the middle of the cell.) Clint: Why should I trust you? Kira: I'm sorry... I couldn't betray Dolf... I understand if you despise me, but please don't die! (She walks away.) Clint: Kira!!... Darius: You'd better run while you still can!! By the way, I think I'll come with you! Darius joined your party. Clint: Count... You're coming too. Count Claymore: It's no good... I can't make it... I'll be fine. They won't kill me until they find the Royal Ring. Clint: Sorry Count... We'll come back for you! (Clint takes the set of keys and leaves, closely followed by Darius. Fade to a network of corridors in the Prison Fortress. Clint and Darius have equipped themselves with weapons and armor and have met up with Eleni and Amon.) Amon: They were gonna kill us, huh? Thanks for the rescue, Clint! Eleni: But how did you get the keys? Clint: I'll tell you after we get out of here! Darius: Listen to me carefully!... Don't bother hittin' these juggernauts from the front or side. Ya have to circle 'round and attack their backs! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE INSIDE PRISON FORTRESS ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Clint ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (Cut to a courtyard near the gate of the Prison Fortress. Clint, Darius, Amon and Eleni have escaped but are surrounded by soldiers and seem to be largely outnumbered.) Clint: Oh oh! Where are we? (The camera pans to show, up on the battlements, a large figure in black robes with a bald head. He is carrying a rope with a scythe on the end. He is Dumas.) Dumas: You are stalwart indeed to escape my dungeon! If you were wise, you would have stayed below and died quietly. Now you shall die a less pleasant death!! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE OUTSIDE PRISON FORTRESS ** VICTORY = Defeat of Dumas DEFEAT = Death of Clint ======================================================================= * AFTER 1 TURN * Dumas: Ha... Slay them all!!! (Pan to the other side of the courtyard where a jailer has appeared.) Jailer: Lord Dumas!!!... The rebels!!! Dumas: Speak up! (The jailer is out of sight but we hear swords slashing and the cries of men.) Jailer: Gwahkkkk!!! (The camera pans back to where the jailer was and we just see the last drops of blood splash on the floor. Ash, Dolan, Diego, Huxley, Grog, Zohar and Sara have arrived and are up on the courtyard walls!) Ash: We're taking over this prison! Lay down your arms or die!! Clint: I can't believe it! It's Ash! Ash: Hold on Clint! We're coming! Dumas: Impudent whelp!... You will beg to die! * VICTORY * Dumas: Gwahkkkk!!! (The group are assembled at the prison gate.) Clint: Ash, you're alive! Ash: My words exactly, Clint. Darius: Claymore and the other prisoners are free now! Huxley: I know that low-class voice... Darius!! Darius: Well if it isn't old man Hobbes! (Darius walks over to Huxley.) Ash: Are you two friends? Huxley: Hardly. We are simply from the same village. He was always slapping together some piece of junk and making trouble. Darius: Look who's talking? This guy's famous for the time he was doing healing experiments in town. He accidentally turned a farmer's pig into a chicken. Ha ha! (Huxley goes red in the face and begins to shake his staff at Darius.) Huxley: Well you burned down the schoolhouse! Diego: C'mon you two, cut it out already! Dolan: It looks like our plan was a great success! Ash: But this is only the first step. The real war with the Empire starts from this point on! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT III: ESCAPE TO TOMORROW END ======================================================================= ======================================================================= News of the fall of the supposedly impregnable prison spreads quickly throughout all of Ishtaria and is a tremendous shock to the imperial government who believed themselves unassailable. Upon hearing this news, the Resistance movement is revitalized. They begin staging large revolts throughout the land and succeed in liberating the southern region. In the meantime, Ash and his companions hold a meeting with Clive Beckett who is acting as a pipeline to the Resistance. ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT IV: THE SUCCESSOR ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (Fade in to a meeting room. Clive, Ash, Clint, Eleni, Diego and Dolan are seated around a table.) Eleni: So it's true... Daddy really is... Ash: Eleni, I'm... Eleni: I'm all right, Ash. I was ready for it... (She pushes back her chair, walks over to the door and closes her eyes.) Eleni: ...Excuse me. I think I need some fresh air... (She leaves the room. Ash runs to the door.) Clive: Let her be alone for a while... There are some things we need to face by ourselves... Ash: I understand... (The camera swivels round as Ash takes his seat again.) Dolan: Clive, how goes the resistance movement? Clive: Very well, thanks to you people. The region of Ishtaria between the Tarre River has been liberated. Clive: That's fantastic! Clive: But things are going to get much harder... The north has many strongholds which will now be heavily guarded. Also, the Empire is courting the support of the neighboring country of Urdu in exchange for granting them the southern region. If that happens, we'll be forced to fight on two fronts... Ash: We mustn't let that happen... Clive: There's another issue which must be dealt with. The Empire is searching for the Royal Ring. If they find it, their power will be unstoppable. Go to Kerachi. There's an informant there for you to meet. Find the Royal Ring before the Empire does. Diego: Kerachi... Damn it! (Diego turns his head away.) Clint: What's wrong, Diego? (Diego turns his head back, smiling as usual.) Diego: Huh?... No, it's nothing... (Fade to black. When the screen fades back in we see Clive heading across a town square dressed in brown robes with a sword and shield.) Ash: Commander! (Clive stops and turns round.) Clive: Oh... Ash! (Ash appears and walks over to Clive.) Ash: Leaving already? Clive: I'm going to meet with a rebel group in the east. Ash: I... I'm afraid I've cursed you too, Clive. Clive: What are you talking about, Ash! Ash: This may not make any sense to you, but... I feel like somehow my traitor's blood has doomed you all... The acorn never falls far from the oak they say... Clive: Ash... There's something very important that I need to tell you... Diego: So there you all are! (Diego and Clint approach.) Diego: You were gonna leave without a word! Clive: I didn't want to disturb you all... Clint: Be careful, commander. Clive: Thank you, Clint. Ash: Clive... Clive: Ash... Believe in yourself! Believe in your friends! You're no traitor! * WHEN THEY LEAVE KHANOS CITY * Darius: Ash, they've surrounded the town! Ash: What?! (Cut to a town scene. Kane and three Crimson Knights are gathered in one corner of the town.) Kane: Ash! So you're alive! (The camera pans across the town past a bridge to where the entire group has gathered.) Ash: Kane!!..... (Pan to another corner of the town. Here a female archer in Crimson Guard clothing is waiting with three more knights.) Sabina: These are the fools that destroyed the prison? (Pan once again to the next corner. There is a man in large armor with a huge battle hammer.) Dallas: They look like puny weaklings! (Finally to the last corner where a punk man is waiting with claws.) Kurtz: They're no match for the Crimson Leaders! Kane: Don't forget they killed Lando!! Sabina: Lando was always the weakest of us... Don't worry. We'll make certain he doesn't leave here alive. Sara: The Crimson Leaders are all here!!... Dolan: We're not ready to take all of them on! Ash: We've got to break out of this trap... Everybody! Concentrate on getting out of here! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN KHANOS CITY ** VICTORY = Arrival at village exit DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * IF KANE IS DEFEATED * Kane: You got lucky, punk! But I'll be back! * IF KURTZ IS DEFEATED * Kurtz: Impressive! But I will see you again! * IF SABINA IS DEFEATED * Sabina: I underestimated you! I've got to fall back. < During the transcription process I did not manage to defeat Dallas or Kane. If anyone finds out their death quotes please send them to me at mglanville@hotmail.com > * VICTORY * (Cut to the room where Dolf met Xeno before. Dolf is staring out of the window and Kira is stood behind him.) Kira: You called Master Dolf? Dolf: A traitor was involved in the prison attack... Kira: Yes... I heard. Dolf: Just before the attack, there was a riot inside. Attacked from the inside and the outside, the prison couldn't stand. One more thing... The rioters got weapons and the keys from someone! You wouldn't know anything about it, would you? Kira: No... Not a thing. (The camera spins around and Xeno warps in.) Xeno: Wa ha hah! You mustn't tell lies, little girl! (Kira turns in shock.) Kira: Xeno Calimani, you villain! Xeno: I was watching when you brought Clint the keys! Kira: You had me followed?!! Dolf: I'm sorry Kira. I thought that I could trust you, but you betrayed me. Take her away. (Two guards enter the room, take Kira and lead her away. Xeno steps towards Dolf.) Xeno: A wise decision... Dolf: You haven't forgotten your promise I hope. I'm manipulating Hel in order to rekindle the Flames of Judgment. And you are sworn to aid me in that pursuit. Xeno: I have not forgotten for a moment. Dolf: Good. I'll hold you to it. It has come time to dispose of this annoying pest Ash Lambert. I want you to personally see that it is taken care of. Xeno: As you wish. (Xeno disappears.) ======= GREAT MASAI FOREST ============================================ Ash: The port of Kerachi is just past this forest. Diego: Do we really have to go to Kerachi? Maybe we should be helping on the southern front. Ash: We've already discussed our role with Clive. What is your problem lately Diego?! Diego: I don't know what you're talking about. Huxley: I sense an evil presence. (The camera rotates as Xeno warps in at the top of a hill.) Xeno: Ho ho. So you are the rebels! You have been quite a nuisance to us. Today you must die. Grog: Who is that guy? Zohar: Xeno Calimani. I've been expecting you! Xeno: Master Zohar!!... Ash: ?!....... Zohar: You are searching for the Magic Stone... Don't you know that its power would consume what is left of your soul? Xeno: ...Ha...ha ha ha... You'll never change... Honest and good... and inflexible as a blind goat! (Zohar raises his fist in anger.) Zohar: Silence! You're nothing but a servant of hell! I did not return to this world to allow you to destroy it! Xeno: You no longer have the power to stop me! ...I summon forth the darkness from this ancient forest!!... Dark Forest, I summon thee!!! (The camera zooms in on Xeno as white rays of energy shoot into his body. A bronze rune symbol appears, then a beam of light shines directly down upon him and other runes float upwards. Finally, the light fades and monsters warp into the forest around him.) Darius: What are these creatures!! Xeno: Hee hee hee. I couldn't stand to see my old mentor eaten so I will bid thee farewell! (Xeno disappears into thin air.) Zohar: Xeno, wait!!... Ash: Zohar, who is that guy? Zohar: No time for explanations now!! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN GREAT MASAI FOREST ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (The group are assembled in the Masai Forest.) Ash: That strange man called you his mentor... Zohar: Yes, he was my student. Over 300 years ago. Ash: 300 years ago!! Just who are you?! Zohar: My true name is Zohar Abu Sa'id. Sara: Did you say Zohar Abu Sa'id! Anyone who dabbles in the Arcana has heard of Zohar the Aloof!! Zohar: I had forgotten that particular nickname... As he said, I am no longer as powerful as I once was. Due to the shock from the time warp that he created. Dolan: Please continue. Zohar: Xeno was my best and brightest pupil. But at some point, he abandoned his principals in pursuit of power. He dreamed of one day rekindling the Flames of Judgment. I tried to stop him but he wouldn't listen and cast a spell on me. During our struggle, a time-warp was created and I fell in... But I always knew that we would meet again... Ash: I see now... Xeno is why the Empire wants to rekindle the Flames of Judgment. Zohar: It seems a safe assumption. I'm partly responsible for Xeno! I'll stop him or die trying! ======= TRADE CITY KERACHI ============================================ Clint: So who's this person we're supposed to meet? Ash: An important merchant named Carlo Lisbon. Diego: Carlo Lisbon! We can't trust that guy! Ash: What are you talking about, Diego? Carlo has been a big financial supporter of the rebellion. Diego: He's trying to win our favor in case we succeed. He's probably giving just as much money to the Empire I bet. Ash: Where do you get these crazy ideas? In any case, let's pay a visit to Carlo's mansion. Diego: ............... (In Carlo's mansion the group are all gathered in the room.) Carlo: Thank you for coming. I'm Carlo Lisbon. Ash: Ash Lambert. Carlo: I've been searching for your lost ring. One of my operatives is about to finalize its purchase. Let's wait here until the deal is concluded. Ash: Thank you very much. (They all start to leave the room. Soon it is just Ash, Carlo, Diego, Eleni and Huxley left. Diego turns to leave but Carlo rushes forward.) Carlo: Wait!... Is that Diego?! Diego: Damn... Carlo: You've come back to succeed me!! Ash: Huh?..... Diego: Don't be ridiculous! I told you 7 years ago that I have nothing to do with you! My name is Diego Renault now! (Diego leaves.) Carlo: Diego, my son... (Fade to black, then fade in to Diego standing out on a balcony. Soft, sad music is playing. Ash approaches.) Ash: Diego... Diego: I didn't want you all to see that. Ash: So you're really the heir to this estate? Diego: I've always despised my father... All he ever cared about was money. He ignored mother and me. 7 years ago I left here and decided to give up the Lisbon family name. Ash: So that's the story... (Eleni appears.) Eleni: So this is where you were, Ash. Carlo wants you... Some news about the ring, I think... (Fade back to the room in the mansion where the group are gathered again but this time without Diego.) Carlo: I've confirmed that it is the Royal Ring. After the Revolution, the ring wound up with a well known coin collector. I've completed the negotiations with this man. The exchange will be tonight at a warehouse in Old Town. I want you to go and make the exchange. Ash: I understand. The warehouse in Old Town. (When Ash and his companions move to the warehouse we see them assembled inside. There are strange and eerie whooshing noises.) Ash: Something's wrong! Where are they?! Huh? (The camera pans around as skeletons and golems appear.) Ash: Monsters! What the...! Darius: Here they come and they look pissed! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN KERACHI WAREHOUSE ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * Ash: I wonder if we were set up? (The camera pans to the other side of the warehouse. Xeno warps in.) Xeno: Ha! Even you could figure that out. Did you really think it would be so easy? (Carlo approaches Xeno and stands beside him.) Ash: Xeno!! ...And Carlo!!! Diego: I knew you were a turncoat! Carlo: Son, you're not cut out for the warrior's life. Come home and take over the family business. Diego: The hell I will! (A huge circle of flames ignites around the group with a boom.) Diego: Yipes! Xeno: Ha ha ha! You're all finished now! They'll be nothing left but blackened and charred bones! Carlo: Wait a minute! That's not what we agreed to! You said that you'd spare my son's life! Xeno: Silence! Does an eagle bargain with a sparrow! Ash: Damn! It can't end like this! Xeno: Ha! Famous last words, Ash Lambert! Carlo: Leave them alone!! (Carlo charges at Xeno but Xeno simply raises his arm and hits Carlo in the face, knocking him to the ground.) Xeno: Are you insane!... Huh? He interrupted my spell! (The flames diminish.) Ash: Yes! The ring of fire disappeared! Xeno: Too bad. We'll see each other again! (Xeno vanishes. Diego and Huxley run over to Carlo.) Diego: Father! Speak to me! Carlo: Ooohhh... Huxley: He'll be all right. 'Tis a surface wound. (Fade to a small room. Carlo is laying in a bed and Diego is sat beside him on a chair. Carlo opens his eyes and turns his head towards Diego.) Carlo: Oh... Where am I? Diego: Good... I was getting worried about you. Carlo: You're the ugliest nurse I've ever seen! Diego: Ha ha. I see you're feeling yourself again. (Diego pushes the chair back and starts to walk away.) Carlo: Diego, wait! I have to apologize. Diego: Dad... I... Carlo: You have no idea how poor my family was! My brother died from a cold because we couldn't keep the house warm. (There is a pause, and Carlo looks up at the ceiling.) Carlo: And I realized that if we only had money, he would still be alive. Ever since then, I've been as you know me. A heartless merchant... I won't try to stop you anymore! Go where your dreams take you!... Diego: Father... (Ash enters.) Ash: Diego, we got a hot tip about the ring!! The ring has already been sold to an agent of the Empire! They're taking it back to Shumeria by train, but we can still catch them! (Carlo turns his head away.) Carlo: Diego, go with him! Diego: Ummm.... Father, when it's all over, I'll come back. Stay well until then. (Diego and Ash leave. Carlo turns his head back and closes his eyes.) ======= MAGIC TRAIN==================================================== (Dallas is stood on the front carriage with various soldiers on each one. At the back is Ash and his group.) Ash: This train is made up of these linked cars. I wonder which one the ring is on. Zohar: I feel its power coming from the front car! Dallas: You rebel scum!! You want the ring, huh? Release the back cars before they can reach here! Trooper: But sir, we don't have time... Dallas: Then you better shut up and get started now!!! Ash: If they release the cars we're lost! Everyone rush to the front car! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE ON MAGIC TRAIN ** VICTORY = Defeat of Dallas DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * AFTER 2 TURNS * Trooper: Ready to release car #1! Dallas: Good. Do it! (The rear car is disconnected and drifts away from the main body of the train.) * AFTER 5 TURNS * Trooper: Ready to release car #2! Dallas: Release it you fool! (The next car is disconnected and drifts away from the main body of the train.) * AFTER 5 TURNS * Trooper: Releasing car #3! Dallas: Hurry! (The next car is disconnected and drifts away from the main body of the train.) * VICTORY * Dallas: Long live the empire! (Cut to the group on the front carriage of the train by a large box.) Ash: So this is the royal ring! It looks just like an ordinary ring to me... Zohar: Mind if I take a look? Huh? What the...? Xeno: Ha ha! That ring is wasted on you fools! (Xeno teleports in front of them, but appears semi-transparent.) Ash: Xeno!! Zohar: Wait! It's an illusion! He's not really here! Xeno: Exactly! But let's talk terms... If you give me the ring, I will return this friend of yours... (A projection of Kira appears next to Xeno, tied to a large stake.) Clive: Kira!! Xeno: Of course she's already betrayed you once... so it may be an unfair trade. We have no more use for her however... If you don't wish to trade, we will be happy to execute her... If you're not at Fort Dain to make the trade by tomorrow, she will die! (Both illusions disappear.) Zohar: The dirty scum... What do we do, Ash? Ash: It's true that she betrayed us... But now she's just a desperate woman in need of help. If we let her die then we'll lose a little piece of our own souls! Diego: It's decided! Ash: To Fort Dain! To save Kira! ======= FORT DAIN ===================================================== (The group arrives at a hill with an odd contraption at the top. Two posts protrude from the group with a platform suspended by chains in the middle. Beneath the platform is a pit of hot lava and stood on the platform is Kira. Xeno stands beside the contraption, surrounded by various monsters and minions.) Xeno: Kind of you to come. Clint: Kira! Kira: Clint, don't give them the Royal Ring!... Xeno: But if you don't, Kira will take a lava bath! Ash: We'll give you the ring! Just let her go! Xeno: Hand over the ring to my little friend here. (A skeleton soldier walks over to Ash, takes the Ring and returns to where Xeno is waiting.) Xeno: Ha! The Ring! And now the hostage... (As the camera pans up to Kira, the platform drops a couple of feet towards the lava.) Xeno: Whoops!... Uh oh. I seem to have lost the key to stop this thing... Ash: What? Xeno: So sorry... Oh well, I did my best. Farewell, fool! (Xeno teleports away.) Clint: That evil rat! Ash: We've got to destroy the death device! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE AT FORT DAIN ** VICTORY = Destroy devices in 8 turns DEFEAT = Death of Ash or Kira ======================================================================= * AFTER EVERY TURN* (The platform drops a little bit closer to the lava.) * VICTORY * (The group assemble round the base of the hill. Kira is knelt on the ground amongst them.) Kira: I don't deserve to live... You traded something like the Royal Ring for my miserable life! Clint: But we couldn't let you die. If we let you die, we wouldn't be any different than Hel. Besides, everyone deserves a chance to redeem themselves. Kira: Are you saying I can start over? Clint: Of course you can! We need you Kira! Let's fight together for what's right! Kira: Clint..... (Fade to night time. They group are all sat around an open fire.) Kira: I was born into a royal family... We were royal in name only and poorer than most peasants. But I was blessed with warm and loving parents and was very happy. But all that changed when the revolution started... Mother, father, sister... All killed by rioting mobs during the war... Dolan: It's true, rampaging mobs went crazy... They looted homes and slaughtered thousands of innocents. Amon: So the Ishtaria that we're so proud of... was built with the blood of innocents! Ash: But the emperor wants to repeat the tragedy. Whatever we do, we've got to stop him! Amon: But what do we do now? The emperor has the magic stone and the Royal Ring! Zohar: There's still a way... Ash: Speak up, man! Zohar: Inscribed on the Ring is a message. It is in the language of the Biruni Empire. I believe it gives the coordinates of a place in the Torog Mountains. Ash: What could be there?! Zohar: I have no idea... But we might as well give it a try... Ash: All right then!! Let's head for the Torog Mountains! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT IV: THE SUCCESSOR END ======================================================================= ======================================================================= The Torog mountain range, located on the far northern border of Ishtaria. From ancient times, it has been called the home of the gods and as of yet no man has been able to dwell for long upon its cruel facade. Placing their last hopes for the overthrow of the Empire upon the ancient script engraved upon the Royal Ring, Ash and his companions travel north by sea to this harsh land. Meanwhile, after finally obtaining the Flame of Judgment, powerful forces were at work within the Empire... ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT V: THE LEGACY ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (Fade into an imperial room. Hel Spites and Dolf Crowley are stood around a glass case with a flickering flame inside. A guard stands nearby.) Hel: The Flames of Judgment in their true form... Are they not dazzling? Each man is always at war with the side of his nature that seeks death. Those who pretend to seek glory are merely trying to run from this. Have you never thought about this? Dolf: ............... (Dolf begins to walk over towards the wall.) Hel: The Flames of Judgment! ........ They have the power to lay waste to everything! Such power wasn't meant for man... Even one so great as I... Yet to save the people from pain and suffering I must have power... I learned much from the chaos that followed the revolution... Dolf: Ha ha. Like a child crying for mommy... You always could make me laugh.... Hel: What!!! (Dolf draws his sword and strikes the guard down.) Hel: !!!.......... Dolf: There is no glory in suffering... 'Tis better and more natural to allow those who are in pain to die. (Dolf approaches Hel, sword still drawn.) Hel: You... You're a... Dolf: A traitor! Yes!! (Dolf swings his sword and kills Hel.) Hel: Gyaaaaaaah!!! (Promptly a soldier enters the room.) Soldier: My lord, did I hear something?... What!! What happened!... Dolf: Stay calm!! The emperor has been felled by an assassin... There may still be time! Quickly! Call a healer! Soldier: Yes, sir! (The soldier runs away.) Dolf: A healer... Ha! He needs only a coffin! ======= WART BAY ====================================================== (Cut to Ash and his group on a ship moored in a harbour.) Grog: All square! Huxley: Oooh... This ship life is difficult work. Darius: That's cause you're a tired old grouch! Huxley: It takes one to know one! Eleni: Stop it you two. Huh? What's that! (The camera sweeps across to reveal eggworms, golems and various other creatures inhabiting the docks.) Diego: Monsters?! Ash: Look alive people! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN WART BAY ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= ======= PIONEER TOWN SORBO ============================================ Ash: Tomorrow we head for the Torog mountains. This is the last rest we'll get for some time. Let's get some sleep. (Fade to black. Harsh wind can be heard as well as crying birds.) Girl's voice: Yaaaaaah! Woman's voice: N...No!!!..... Man's voice: Save us!... Girl's voice: Sister, no!... (Fade in to a small bed chamber where Eleni and Sara are sleeping. Eleni sits up suddenly and screams.) Eleni: Eeeeeek!!! Sara: What is it? What happened? Eleni: Oh my!... I... I'm sorry... I had a terrible dream. Sara: You scared me! That was some scream! What were you dreaming about?! Eleni: The same dream I've been having since I was small. In the dream, I get sucked into a giant glowing fissure... I'm surrounded by people who seem to know me... They're trying desperately to save me... But they're too late. Sara: Weird dream! My dreams are all so boring! I wouldn't mind having a dream about some handsome stranger... Eleni: I thought you and Amon were in love. (Sara's face goes red.) Sara: What?! What are you talking about! Anyway, you should get some sleep! We have a big day tomorrow. Eleni: All right... (They both go back to sleep.) ======= TOROG MOUNTAINS =============================================== (The group are on a wooden bridge over icy water in a snow-filled, rocky landscape.) Dolan: Master Zohar... Please tell us what you think we will find around here. Zohar: Hmmm... The descendants of the lost people. Ash: Lost people? Do you really think that... Darius: Heads up! We got company!! (Kane and a group of Crimson soldiers appear behind the group.) Kane; Ash Lambert! This will be your burial place! Ash: Better men have said that before!! (On top of a bluff ahead of them, Kurtz is waiting with his own group of soldiers.) Kurtz: I'll stain this snow crimson with your blood! Kira: We're surrounded! (Sabina walks up to Kane.) Sabina: Master Kane, terrible news!! Kane: What is it Sabina! Sabina: A messenger arrived... The emperor is dead... He was assassinated by terrorists, they say. Kane: Father... I can't believe it... I must go to the capital to see for myself. Kurtz, I'm counting on you to take care of Ash for me! Kurtz: With pleasure! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN TOROG MOUNTAINS ** VICTORY = Defeat of Kurtz DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * Kurtz: Ugh! So it was to be my blood instead... (The group assemble around the base of the bluff.) Ash: They said the emperor was killed... Kira: I wonder if it could be Dolf so soon... Clint: What are you talking about? Kira: Dolf was waiting for the chance to supplant Hel. If he's behind this, we're in much greater peril than even before. Hel was a lover of power, it's true. But Dolf is insane! He is in love with death!! Diego: I always thought he was dangerous... Ash: We need to move faster than ever now! ======= FRONTIER VILLAGE ============================================== Ash: What a charming little village. Amon: Looks pretty boring to me... Zohar: This is the location inscribed on the ring... Ash: Well, in any case... Eleni, what's wrong? Eleni: I feel strange... This is the first time I've been here and yet... Ash: ?.......... * AFTER VISITING THE TAVERN * Ash: Eleni! You don't look well! Eleni: I... I do know this village... Ash: What do you mean? Eleni: These stone streets... These houses...! Oh no! Flames!! This village will become an ocean of flames!! Ash: Eleni!! What is it!! Old Man: What happened? Ash: Suddenly she just started raving... Old Man: She can lie down at my house... It's over there. (Fade to Ash waiting in the room of a house. The old man enters.) Old Man: She's relaxing now. She was very tired. Ash: Thank you for everything. My name is Ash Lambert. Old Man: I'm the village head. Call me Orosius. Tell me, for what purpose have you come to this village? Ash: Well, the truth is... (Fade to black, then fade back in again.) Orosius: Oh... I see. But as you see this is nothing but a mountain village. We have nothing to do with any magic stone or lost people. Ash: Is that so?... (Suddenly, a man bursts in through the door carrying a pitchfork.) Villager: Chief! Monsters!! We were out picking healing herbs when they attacked. Your granddaughter Leena is among them.... Orosius: What?! Ash: We'll save them! Where do we go? Villager: The Tsukue Plains north- west of the village. (The villager leaves. Eleni comes from another room and Ash rushes over to her.) Eleni: I'm going too. Ash: Are you sure? Eleni: Don't worry. I'm feeling much better! ======= TSUKUE PLAINS ================================================= (The whole group is assembled on the plains.) Ash: There they are!! (The camera pans across to a man and a small blonde girl in the field. There are several monsters nearby, and between the pair and the group.) Villager: Leena, don't worry about me. Save yourself! Leena: No, you can't give up! I know! I'll use the spell my granddad taught me... Spirits of the light surround me now... Elemental shield!! (Leena casts a spell that creates a blue barrier around them.) Zohar: A little girl casting such a powerful spell!! Ash: Wow!!..... We don't know how long it will last! Let's get to work! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN TSUKUE PLAINS ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * (Ash and the group are stood around Leena and the man.) Ash: Are you all right? Leena: Yes. Thank you! Diego: Let's get back to the village. (Fade out. When the screen fades back in, Ash and Zohar are stood alone in Tsukue Plains.) Zohar: The spell that girl used... Only the very highest in our craft know that spell! Also did you notice the markings in the plain? Ash: Yes, I've seen that mark before. The village chief is trying to hide something from us. (Ash and Zohar leave, and the camera pans up to reveal a high view of the field. There are markings in it resembling a bird with a cross on its back. The same markings could be seen on the floor in the castle ruins in Act II. Fade to Orosius' house where Ash, Zohar, Orosius and Leena are stood.) Orosius: How can I thank you! Ash: Start by telling us the truth. What is the secret of this village? Orosius: Huh? What are you talking about? Ash: You can't fool us. No normal child could wield a spell of such power! And the pattern carved into the plains? I saw it on Toroah's Ark! And the same mark is on your pendant... Orosius: ............... I see there is no use in trying to deceive you further... The villagers here are descendants of the ancient Biruni Empire. We were a civilization of sorcerers and sages, but then... Our greatest and most terrible achievement was also our undoing... The Flames of Judgment! Zohar: Just as I suspected... Ash: Orosius, please lend us your power! (Orosius shakes his head.) Orosius: Sadly, I cannot. Our ancestors took pride in power and walked the path of destruction... The power that they unwittingly unleashed, they later sealed away. We will not use power again. We will not repeat our mistakes. Ash: You're only running from your responsibilities! Even though you sealed the power, it did not go away. If it truly was your ancestors who unleashed this power... then it is your duty and your obligation to rid us of its menace! Orosius: ............... Leena: They saved us from certain death! Please! You must lend them your strength! Orosius: Leena... I have an idea. We will test them to see if their hearts are true. If they can retrieve a claw from Salamander the Dragon, I will help. Leena, guide them to the cave and do not get involved yourself! Leena: Terrific! I can be your guide! ======= SMOKING BONES CAVE ============================================ (A cave filled with lava pools.) Leena: The fire drake is in the back! Be careful! (Leena leaves.) ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN SMOKING BONES CAVE ** VICTORY = Defeat of Dragon DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * VICTORY * Fire Dragon: Raaaaaaaarrrrr!!! ======= FRONTIER VILLAGE ============================================== (The village is in flames, buildings are crumbling and villagers lay dead. Crimson soldiers are around, including Sabina.) Sabina: Ha ha ha!... Kill them all! Orosius: Stop!! Sabina: We'll stop if you tell us where Ash is! Orosius: I know nothing! Sabina: Then you shall die for me! (A Crimson soldier strikes Orosius with his sword.) Orosius: Gach! (Ash's group arrives with Leena.) Leena: Grandfather!! Ash: You'll pay for that! Sabina: Indeed! I was about to say the same! You shall pay dearly for the lives of Lando, Dallas and Kurtz!! Eleni: Move away, Leena. We'll take care of this! Leena: O...Okay. ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN FRONTIER VILLAGE ** VICTORY = Defeat of Sabina DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * AFTER 4 ROUNDS * Sabina: Ooof... You are stronger than I thought... (Kane appears in the village with a group of soldiers.) Kane: Sabina, I'm back! Sabina: Master Kane! Ash: Fresh troops!... We're in trouble! * IF KANE IS DEFEATED * Kane: Sabina!... I must retreat!... Sabina: Kane! Leave it to me! * IF SABINA IS DEFEATED * Sabina: Kane!! Help!! * VICTORY * (Ash and the group are gathered in the ruins of Frontier Village with Orosius, who is laying on the ground.) Orosius: Ooooooooohhh... Leena: No! Don't die grandfather! Ash: Orosius! Orosius: Ash... It is just as you said... We were running... from the terrifying power that we gave birth to. ...But it seems that the time has come... to pay for our lies... Leena: Grandfather!! Orosius: Leena... You must go to Orome Lake... Break the seal on the temple... You're the only one left to do it... It shall be reborn... The only power to resist the Flames of Judgment... The sword of destruction... Vandal Heart!! Ash: Vandal Heart... Orosius: A sentient blade... as fearful as its name... He who wields it, if there be doubt in his heart, will be cursed. The wielder could become a puppet of evil, spreading pain... But you Ash... You could... You could do it... Ash: Orosius, be strong! Orosius: Tell them... Tell them for us... ...The people... must not ...give in ...to... power...... (Orosius collapses.) Leena: Grandfather!!! (Fade to a field with three wooden crosses marking graves. Dolan is knelt by the front marker with Amon and Sara behind him. He stands.) Amon: Another sacrifice... I hope what we're fighting for really has meaning... Dolan: That will be judged by later generations. We have to trust our own conscience. By the way, where's Leena? Sara: Eleni is going to check on her. Poor girl... Dolan: Poor girl she may be... But right now, our only hopes are riding on her! (Fade to Leena crying on the floor of the house with Eleni stood by her.) Leena: Boo hoo... What am I going to do now? My grandfather... The whole village dead. I'm all alone!... Eleni: Leena, you're not alone! Nobody is alone in this world... Everyone is connected in some way! Leena: You too? Eleni: Me too... I have no family left either... And yet I know that I'm not alone. I have Ash, Huxley and the others. You too, Leena! You're one of us now! Leena: Really? You'll take me with you? Eleni: Of course... Here, take this pendant of mine. Leena: It's beautiful!... Eleni: I was wearing this when they found me... I was an orphan baby with only this pendant to show who I really was. I'm giving this to you because now I know who I am. I'm me! Someday you'll know what I mean... Let's go back to the others, okay? Leena: Okay!... ======= OROME LAKE ==================================================== (The group are gathered with Leena at the edge of Orome Lake. Leena is stood on a marked panel.) Darius: If this is Orome Lake, then where's the temple? Leena: Hee hee... Watch this. Spirits of the lake, keep thy pledge to the emperors of Biruni... De gustibus non est disputandum! (Leena casts a spell which causes a large temple to rise from the water.) Diego: That was really cool! ...Oh no, what's this? (Golden machines appear at the temple doors, resembling golems from before but more hi-tech.) Guardian: Survive this trial to receive our guidance. Kira: They're not gonna let us pass without a fight! Leena: If I can reach the gate they should fall back! Ash: Let's protect Leena and get her to the gate! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE ON OROME LAKE ** VICTORY = Move Leena to entrance DEFEAT = Death of Ash or Leena ======================================================================= * WHEN LEENA REACHES THE SECOND PANEL * Leena: By the blood that runs through my veins... Sic transit gloria mundi!! (Another part of the temple rises from the water, creating a bridge for the group to pass through but revealing more guardians.) * WHEN LEENA REACHES THE THIRD PANEL * Leena: Rise again from your ancient slumber... Nun aut nunquam! (Another part of the temple rises from the water, creating a bridge for the group to pass through but revealing more guardians.) * VICTORY * (Inside the temple, the Vandal Heart is suspended inside a spinning blue energy field. The temple interior resembles the same temple where the group faced Magnus.) Ash: So this is... Vandal Heart! Zohar: Leena, it's up to you to unseal the sword. Leena: I'll try! (Leena walks forward.) Man's voice: Go no further! (Xeno teleports in behind the group.) Ash: It's Xeno! Xeno: I took a chance at following you... I had no idea that you would find a relic of this magnitude! The fabled Vandal Heart, sword of destruction! Zohar: Xeno, don't get any foolish ideas! Xeno: Ha! Even you can't stop me now, Zohar! I've discovered the secrets of phase magic ...Dimension Hole!! Zohar: He's summoned a space- time rift by himself! (Xeno casts a spell which creates a vortex shimmering with runic symbols. It is the same one seen when Ash, Grog and Sara were sucked into the Plains of Sorrow (end of Act 2). The vortex shoots towards Leena.) Leena: Gyaaaaaah!! Eleni: Leena!! (Eleni tries to run to Leena, but Ash stops her.) Ash: Eleni, no!! Eleni: Leena! ...Leena! Leena: Eleni, help! (The vortex closes and Leena is gone.) Xeno: Ha! You're last chance is gone! See you at the apocalypse! Ha ha ha... (Xeno teleports away.) Ash: Now what are we gonna do... Diego: Shit!! Zohar: Sealed for eternity... Eleni: That's not true!... Ash: Huh?... Eleni: I... I just remembered ...The truth is... I am Leena... Leena is Eleni!... Is me... Ash: Eleni, are you well? Sit down and rest! Eleni: I'm fine Ash. It's just that I know who I am. Everyone, Leena's fine! She came out of the rift 18 years in the past. She'll wander around a little, but soon she'll be found by Magnus! Zohar: So you mean that... Eleni: Yes, Leena is myself from the past! Don't give up hope! As the last Biruni mage, I can break this seal! (Eleni begins to cast a spell.) Eleni: Soul sword, make with us a contract of blood... Morituri te salumatus! (Energy flows from Eleni and the barrier around the Vandal Heart disappears.) Eleni: Ash, take the sword!! (Ash takes the Vandal Heart, and begins to glow white.) Ash: My entire body... It's flowing with energy! So this... This is Vandal Heart! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT V: THE LEGACY END ======================================================================= ======================================================================= Having acquired the great sword, Vandal Heart, the only power which can resist the Flames of Judgment, Ash and his friends set off for the city of Shumeria to take their part in the Liberation Army's final assault. At the same time, Dolf, who had been secretly hiding his true ambition for years, saw the chaos after the death of Emperor Hel as his great chance to grasp the reigns of power. ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT VI: A FOOL'S EPITAPH ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (Having left Glasgow Town, Ash and his group arrive at Fort Gareth. Kane is stood on battlements.) Kane: Lando, Dallas, Kurtz, Sabina and father... Lend me your power... Messenger: Master Kane, Ash and his men are here! Kane: So it's finally time! (Ash and the others are seen at the entrance to the fort.) Ash: There's no need for further bloodshed. I'm not even sure who the real enemy is now! Kane: Are you referring to Dolf perhaps? That's got nothing to do with what's between you and I! I promised I would kill you with my own hands and I will! Ash: Let's see if you can do that!! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE AT FORT GARETH ** VICTORY = Defeat of Kane DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * AFTER 1 ROUND * Kane: Ash, I've hated you since officer training school! Son of a traitorous dog! Acting like one of the elite... How dare you! Now I'll show you what a lowlife you really are! Ash: Come on then, Kane! Kane: I'll feast on your still beating heart!! * WHEN ASH'S GROUP BREACH THE INNER WALL * Kane: They keep coming! Can nothing stop them? (Xeno teleports in.) Xeno: It's not time to give up yet... Kane: You're Dolf's pet wizard aren't you?! Xeno: Surrender to me your soul... and I will use my arts to transform you into a creature of the dark! Kane: I'll not take the coward's road!! Xeno: I thought you wanted Ash dead, no? Kane: Damn... Very well. I grant you my soul. Xeno: Ha! Superb! In return I grant you victory! (Colourful, magic explosions erupt around Kane.) Kane: Kyaaaaaaaaaaa!!! Xeno: Ha ha! Now you're just a mindless killing machine! (Xeno disappears.) Ash: Fool! He's abandoned humanity! I can't believe he went that far! (Kane is now shrouded in dark purple energy.) Kane: ...Ash...Ash... Ashhhhh!!!!! * WHEN KANE IS DEFEATED * Kane: Yaaarrrgggg!!! Ash... I hate you!!! You've destroyed everything I love! I'll be waiting for you in the gates of hell!! ======= COBALT BEACH ================================================== (Ash is stood alone in the darkness. Strange shapes can be seen against the sky.) Ash: What is this place? Voice: Son of a traitor!! Ash: Who said that? Man's Voice: You sold out our country!! Woman's Voice: You and your father are the shame of this land!! Ash: Stop..stop it!! Child's Voice: Traitor! Traitor!! Old Person's Voice: You'll never be anything but a dirty lowlife!! Kane's Voice: I hate you! I'll hate you for all eternity!! Ash: Stooooooooop!!! (Suddenly the darkness fades and Ash is stood on green grass with all his companions.) Clint: Ash!! Ash what's wrong! Ash: Uhhh.......... I... Sorry about that... Eleni: Are you okay? You don't look well. Ash: No, really... I'm fine. It's nearly time for us to link up our forces with Clive. (Across the field we see a large group of centurions and grenadiers.) Kira: First we'll have to deal with those guys!! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE ON COBALT BEACH ** VICTORY = Destruction of enemies DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * AFTER 1 ROUND * Voice: Traitor's son! Ash: ?!Huh?... Who said that?! * AFTER 2 ROUNDS * [Kane's] Voice: I'll hate you forever!! Ash: Again that voice! Can't you hear it?! * AFTER 3 ROUNDS * Voice: You sold out your country! Traitor!! Ash: Stop!! Why won't you stop!! * VICTORY * Eleni: Ash, are you really all right?! (The scene fades away until it is just Ash in the blackness again.) Voice: Traitor! Renegade! Voice: Turncoat! Voice: You big jerk! Ash: Someone stop these voices in my head! (Ash erupts in the same kind of explosions that Kane did. When they dissipate, he has a dark, eerie tone to his flesh and armour.) Eleni: Ash, what is it?! Ash: Help meee!!! (Ash takes a swipe at Eleni.) Eleni: Eeeeeek!! Dolan: Eleni! Get away from there! Ash: Do not call me... a traitor!!! (Clive appears and hurries over.) Clive: What... What's going on? Zohar: Vandal Heart is vying to control Ash's soul! His trauma from being called a traitor as a boy is emerging! Clive: What can we do! Ash: All of you... Die! Die! Die! (Ash suddenly creates a wave of white energy that forces everybody back.) Clive: Stop!... Stop it, Ash! (Clive approaches Ash.) Clint: Clive, look out! Ash: Gwaaaahhhh! (Ash strikes Clive down. The dark energy fades and rain begins to fall. Clive is gasping on the ground.) Ash: ...What... What have I wrought! Please Clive! Please don't die!! Clive: Huff... It's better this way, Ash. Ash: What!! Clive: I'll never forget that fateful day 18 years ago... (The screen fades to black, then shows a flashback to a castle room. Two men are stood there.) Ash's father, Aldor: Arris, I'll cover you! Go out the back! Arris the Sage: No, Aldor! I won't forsake you... (Clive and several imperial soldiers enter through a large door.) Clive: Aldor Lambert, surrender the traitor Arris! Aldor: Stop it Clive! You've been deceived! Clive: Don't interfere or you'll be hurt too!! Aldor: Listen to me Clive! This is part of a plan to ensnare Arris the Sage! (Clive draws his sword.) Clive: I'll listen no more!! Put up your sword! Aldor: I didn't want to fight, but I have no choice... Clive: Have at you!! (The screen fades to black and we hear the clash of swords, followed by a deathly scream.) Clive: I found out later that Aldor spoke the truth. They were just using me to sabotage the new government... After I discovered the truth, I tried to make a public announcement. But the person that deceived me had already been killed in the war... I said nothing for fear of derailing the peace process... And so the truth has not been spoken until this day... (Fade back in to the rainy scene.) Clive: Ash, you're father was [sic] no traitor!!... Ash: Clive!! Zohar: We may yet save him! Let's return to town!! ======================================================================= (Cut to Ash alone in a room. Eleni enters.) Eleni: Here you are, Ash. Clive, will be fine! Ash: Thank the gods! I was so worried... But I nearly killed him! I'm in no condition to keep fighting... Eleni: What are you talking about Ash! Ash: I can never forgive myself... Eleni: Listen to me Ash! Your father, Clive... Everyone was fighting for a better tomorrow... You must continue the good fight that your father died for! Ash: Eleni... Eleni: It's your turn now, Ash. You mustn't use guilt as an excuse to avoid responsibility! Ash: You're right Eleni. It's just as you say. I've been selfish for too long. It's time to do my duty! Eleni: Complete your father's dying wish! Ash: My father's dying wish... (Ash pulls something from his armour.) Eleni: That's the same ocarina from before! (Ash plays the tune he played after the Rhine Bridge battle in Act 1.) Ash: Yes... It's a memento from my father. All those years I hated him, but I just couldn't throw it away. I guess all those years part of me never stopped believing in him. Eleni: Ash... Ash: We're finally near the end of all this madness. Come on, let's go! ======= CAPITAL SHUMERIA ============================================== (A scene of carnage. Crimson Guard soldiers are in the city streets and are being killed by monsters.) Imperial Soldier: Hyaaaaaaahhh!! Imperial Soldier: Waaaaaaahhhh!! Imperial Soldier: Gyaaaaaahhhh!! Ash: Monsters attacking Imperial Soldiers!?! (One soldier runs up to Ash.) Imperial Soldiers: Help... Help us! Ash: Tell us what's going on here! Imperial Soldier: Councilor Dolf took the Flames of Judgment and holed himself up in the great temple 3 days ago. He said something... about a magic ceremony to destroy the rebel army... After that, powerful monsters appeared and nearly wiped us out! This country is finished!! (The soldier flees.) Ash: What's going on at the great temple?! Zohar: I think I know what happened... A powerful negative force is wielding the flames, and the resultant dark energy has created a vortex to some dark and evil dimension, I think. Xeno: Exactly... Zohar: Xeno, is this what you wanted all along? Xeno: My heart has ever yearned to know... to what heady heights a man may climb have he but the will and the power! Teacher, I'll not allow you to stop me from my dream! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN CAPITAL SHUMERIA ** VICTORY = Defeat of Xeno DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * AFTER 1 ROUND * Sara: We've reached the endgame at long last! Amon: We must win even if it means our deaths! Dolan: You're wrong, Amon! We fight to live! If we die, what good is our victory? Sara: Amon, you have another good reason to live too! Amon: Hey, is that a promise? Sara: Not a promise. Call it an incentive. * AFTER 2 ROUNDS * Clint: Kira... If we survive this war... Kira: What? I couldn't hear you. Clint: Nothing... I said 'be careful!' Kira: Yeah... You too. * VICTORY * Xeno: Yeeeeoooowwww!!! You have slain me!... ======================================================================= (The group are gathered in Shumeria's streets.) Zohar: Xeno was a man very much like other men. Mankind has ever had an insatiable desire for knowledge and truth... Dolan: But not everyone kills for that desire. Grog: ...Well anyway, we still gotta deal with Dolf! Are we ready to attack as we are, Ash? ----------------------------------------------------------------------- * QUESTION * > 1. Not yet... > 2. Let's go! * ANSWER * > 1. Not yet... Ash: Not yet, we need to resupply first! * ANSWER * > 2. Let's go! Ash: Let's go! This is the final battle! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ======================================================================= (Dolf is stood at the head of what looks like a church or palace. Ash's group are at the entrance, and between them are numerous monsters.) Dolf: Impressive! I greatly underestimated you! Ash: Dolf... What are you planning?! If this continues, everyone in Ishtaria will wind up dead! Do you want to be the ruler of a kingdom of ghosts?! Dolf: Ho ho. You completely misunderstand me! It is neither power nor glory that I seek... It is revenge for the death of my father, Arris, that I seek! Eleni: Arris the Sage! The greatest hero of Ishtaria was your father?!... Dolf: Father was the greatest patriot of our history! But he was used and thrown away like a lump of coal... His place in history was forgotten even as the people... enjoyed the prosperity that was hard won with his blood! I vowed I would take revenge on those people who forgot him! It was then that I met Xeno and learned of the Flames of Judgment... Zohar: Fool! To use such power for petty revenge! You would destroy the world to settle your own puny debts?! Dolf: Your words move me not! This unclean world can only be cleansed with fire! Ash: You're wrong! Though this world may be wicked, life itself is precious! Good and evil, love and hate. Each man contains the potential for both. You would exterminate mankind for their sins? I would fight the gods themselves to save them! Dolf: Sanctimonious whelp! How many souls have you yourself released from their corporeal bondage? Well then... Why don't you see if you can stop me! ======================================================================= ** BATTLE IN CAPITAL SHUMERIA ** VICTORY = Defeat of Dolf DEFEAT = Death of Ash ======================================================================= * WHEN DOLF IS DEFEATED * Dolf: Fool!... Let's see you handle this! (Explosions erupt around Dolf. When they stop he has become 'Dolf Dark Angel', a winged, hooded version of himself.) * WHEN DOLF DARK ANGEL IS DEFEATED * Dolf: Yaaaaarrrrrggg!!!! ======================================================================= (The group are all gathered around Dolf as he lays on the floor.) Dolf: Uuuuuhhhh....... Dolan: It's finally over... Dolf: F...Father... Ash: Dolf, it's over. Let it go. Revenge for your father. I understand you better than you know... But after revenge is taken, nothing remains but a painful scar... Dolf, you can begin again. With your genius you could do much to help rebuild this country. Dolf: Uggg... Help this country?... Help this country?! You still do not understand... This country was headed for annihilation anyway! I am merely accelerating and purifying the means of its destruction... Ash: ............... Dolf: Now the world shall be judged as was my father! Zohar: !?!... Dolf, don't do it! You must stop!! Dolf: Flames of Judgment! Devour all you see! Devour our souls! Devour the world!! (An orange ball of energy forms above Dolf. White light flashes, followed by explosions in the room. Dolf vanishes.) Dolan: With his last effort he released the flames!! Eleni: It can't be true!! Who can save us now?! Clint: It's no good! It keeps expanding! Ash: I'll use Vandal Heart to disperse its power! Zohar: Ash, no!! It's too dangerous! Ash: Well here goes nothing! Yaaaahhhhhh!!!! (Ash leaps forward into the energy ball and symbols appear suddenly, then a bright flash. When it fades, Ash is gone.) Diego: Did... Did it work? Zohar: It looks like the flames have gone out, but... Eleni: Ash!... Where's Ash?! Darius: He... He disappeared with the flames... Eleni: No!... Ash!... Come back, Ash!! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ACT VI: A FOOL'S EPITAPH END ======================================================================= ======================================================================= Ash, gone from this world, was never to be seen again... With Hel and Dolf gone, the Empire quickly crumbled. Ishtaria was once more set back on the path of democracy. However, the wounds left by the empire were deep indeed. As a result of the purges which left many dead, the new government faced a difficult task indeed. In the countryside, thieves still make their own laws and only the strong can survive. Ultimately not much changed since before the war started. People still must make their way by force of their will. It is only when the people lose this will that evil is able to flourish and take power. During this time, Ash's friends began to drift away... Dolan became a statesman and helped to rebuild Ishtaria. (Image: Dolan stood on a podium.) Kira took off by herself on a journey of self-discovery. (Image: Kira riding a horse across a field by a lake.) While Clint, new head of the SDF, waited for her return. Recently there have been rumors that the two will marry. (Image: Clint sat among Kira's belongings reading a letter.) Diego returned to Kerachi to continue the family business. (Image: Diego sat at a desk, looking somewhat bored.) Amon became Darius' apprentice machine maker. (Image: Amon tinkering with some cogs and large machinery.) Sara got a job in a nearby bakery to be close to Amon. (Image: Sara slumped over the counter staring longingly.) Grog and Zohar sailed all over the world together. (Image: Grog standing at the bow of a ship while Zohar sits nearby, reading from a large book.) Huxley is always at home working on his stamp collection. (Image: Huxley holding a stamp with a pair of tweezers with several stamp books scattered around.) The days go by one after the other... (Eleni is sat alone at a desk in a room.) Eleni: The days go by one after the other... An endless procession of tomorrows... But nothing new to write about... (Ash's ocarina melody is heard.) Eleni: !!.......... That ocarina!... That melody!... Could it be!! (She walks over to the door and goes outside.) Eleni: It is!... Welcome back!... I've been waiting so long! ======================================================================= Congratulations You are the master of Vandal Hearts Thank you for playing. See you in the next episode. ======================================================================= ======= END =========================================================== ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ======================================================================= EXTRA DIALOGUE AND NOTES ======================================================================= ======================================================================= This includes: Speech given by people in towns (taverns and dojo) Holy Key battles Character battle death quotes Character train death quotes (4.4) Character bridge death quotes (5.2) Character river death quotes (5.5) Errors in Vandal Hearts script/translation ======================================================================= ======================================================================= SPEECH GIVEN BY PEOPLE IN TOWNS ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ======= CAPITAL SHUMERIA ============================================== Bartender: I thought it would get better after the war. But now everything is taxed and you can't walk on the streets at night. Young man: The streets are filled with criminals and our council is filled with politicians who only care about padding their own nests. Now it's daily terrorist threats. What's going to happen to this country? Woman: The terrorists killed Mr. Smetana, head of the council just 3 days ago... They say it was the work of the Old Royalists... But if you ask me, it could have been any of a dozen different groups. I'm just surprised it didn't happen sooner. Old man: If Arris were here to see how things have turned out... I wonder what he would say. ======= PORT CITY MINATO ============================================== Bartender: A ship? I don't think you'll have much luck. The pirate, Hassan, has been prowling this area recently. Everyone's so afraid that all trade has been brought to a halt. Man: A relative of mine lives on Gillbaris Island, but all contact's been cut off cause of that damned pirate! I hope he's okay. Old man: A monster is living in the sand dune near town. Pirates in the sea and monsters in the sand. What's next? Woman: (after defeating the Death Ant) Now I can go back to tanning on the dunes! Please accept this family heirloom in return. (You got the Key of Nova!) Woman: Now if we could only be rid of those pirates! ======= YUZU VILLAGE ================================================== Bartender: Thank you for saving us. If it wasn't for you, we might have been mindless zombies forever! Man: Before the revolution, the Royal Family made it illegal to study the ruins. They were afraid that archeologists would discover that the legend about the Royal Family and the origins of the country were untrue. Recently, they found out there was an advanced civilization here long, long ago. Old man: Those Royals were a corrupt bunch all right. And yet they were of the Ashah Dynasty, children of Toroah the Messiah. Perhaps one day we'll all be punished for overthrowing them. Young man: I found this weird fruit the other day... But then I dropped it while running away from a monster... That was right next to that cross shaped poisonous swamp... Young man: (if you give him the banana) You found that weird banana for me! It was laying in the poison swamp so I can't eat it, but please take this in return! I found it near the ruins. (You got the Key of Earth!) Young man: It's pretty darn strange, huh? ======= REMOTE TOWN =================================================== Bartender: Welcome!...Huh? Never seen you before! Ha. You must have some bad luck to materialize in this dimension! Ash: ???...What are you talking about? Bartender: This is a loophole in time. This is the town at the end of the world. Old Man: The flow of time is not an absolute. It's more like the weather. Sometimes there are disturbances. I've seen birds and small dogs come through rips in time-space. Man: Most of the people who enter a warp just get spit out elsewhere, but some people wind up in this damned town! Like me... Woman: You want to leave this town? Simple. Exit this town and keep walking. The winds of time will take you somewhere, but you can't predict when and where you will appear. ======= TERASU VILLAGE ================================================ Bartender: Before Emperor Hel came to power, people thought the Royalists were behind the terrorist attacks. But it looks like those were lies spread by Hel's party. Young Man: The Empire has been doing strange things. On one hand they're busy stamping out rebels. On the other hand they're digging up ruins. What's going on? Woman: The army's made up of criminals and thugs. But the Crimson Guards are something different. I've heard that at the top there are 5 Crimson Generals. It is said that none has ever been bested in personal combat. ======= KHANOS CITY =================================================== Bartender: I'm not afraid of these army boys... But the leaders of the Crimson Guard are really scary... Man: Archeologists have made great finds recently. They discovered that an ancient advanced civilization existed and something called a train that runs between Kerachi and the capital. Old Man: The civilization that they just discovered... That must be the Biruni Empire described in the Holy Tome. Then what happened to the Flames of Judgment that destroyed it? ======= TRADE CITY KERACHI ============================================ Bartender: This town owes it all to Carlo Lisbon. Maybe he does do some shady deals, but if not for him... Old Man: Have you seen our precious train? 'Tis a wonderous relic from a dead civilization. It runs all the way to the capital! Woman: It's so strange... What could destroy a culture that made something as incredible as the train? Maybe they're still alive somewhere... Man: I collect strange and rare things objects. But it looks like there's nothing in these parts to interest me. Where are the 3 sacred treasures everyone is looking for? * IF PLAYER GIVES MAN MACROMAN, TAROT AND RAMEN * Man: I collect strange and rare things objects. You have them!!! The 3 sacred treasures! The magical macroman! The legendary rider card! The fabled heavy ramen! I admire your good taste. Please add this to your collection! You got the Key of Chaos! Man: One man's garbage is another man's treasure. ======= PIONEER TOWN SORBO ============================================ Bartender: This is the last town on the frontier. But the legends claim that a magical city lies beyond here. Man: Better be careful 'round these parts! We got monsters and villains of all sorts around here. Old Man: The Torog mountains are the homes of the gods! Before you go, you had best make your peace with them! ======= FRONTIER VILLAGE ============================================== Bartender: It's rare to have visitors in these parts. Have a nice stay while you're here. Man: There's nothing to see around here. Nuthin in my granddad's day, nuthin in my dad's day and nuthin in my day. They'll probably be nuthin here in my son's day either. Woman: You think we're an ancient people? Ha ha ha. Well my granddad is over 100! * AFTER BATTLE ON TSUKUE PLAINS * Bartender: Thank you. That was my brother that you saved on the Tsukue Plains. Man: We threw away our culture... But I often long for the greatness and majesty of our ancestors. Woman: I'm frightened by monsters around here... But it's better than the evil power that our people created! Old Man: We just want to live our lives in peace... If you'll keep our village's secret, I'll give you a tip... In the dragon's lair, search the center of the smallest lava lake. What you find will be of great use to you! ======= GLASGOW TOWN ================================================== Bartender: The Empire is finished. Emperor Hel's death was the final nail in the coffin, no pun intended. Now everyone's rushing to line up on the side of the rebels. Man: The imperial army has fallen to pieces all over the country. But the Crimson Guard still strikes fear into the heart of their foes. Old Man: Now everyone's screaming for a revolution, but... they say that a country always gets the leaders it deserves, don't they? Weird Man: ?!... Do I know you stranger? Art thou the hero eternal?... Nay, I was mistook! * IF THE PLAYER HAS 5 PRISMS * Weird Man: ?!... Do I know you stranger? Thou art the hero eternal!! The holder of the 5 prisms! Take the final key oh great one! You got the Key of Heaven. Mystery Man: At last my journey is finally over... ======================================================================= ======================================================================= DOJO ======================================================================= ======================================================================= * GUIDANCE * Dojo: Listen carefully. (After reading any of the following, he says...) Dojo: Is there anything else you wish to know? ----------------------------------------------------------------------- ** GROWTH ** Dojo: It is the goal of every man to attain the highest rank in his profession! After reaching levels 10 and 20, you may come here to learn new skills. Always strive to find the best in yourself. ** 7 POWERS ** Dojo: The 7 classes correspond to the 7 powers that Toroah mastered. They are: Knight, Armor, Archer, Airman, Mage, Priest, and Monk. You must choose wisely in order to create a well-balanced party. ** HINTS ** Dojo: Sword defeats bow, bow defeats air and air defeats sword. Armor is strong but slow Mages are weak but wise Monks use word and claw. Always remember these basic rules before you engage your foe in war. ** LEGEND ** Dojo: Toroah underwent severe trials to master the 7 powers of war. If you seek true power, you must undergo the 6 trials just as Toroah. Remember that each door must first be unlocked by a key... ----------------------------------------------------------------------- * ADVANCE * (Select a character level 10+ or 20+.) Dojo: can advance to the following classes. (Select a class.) Dojo: Do you wish to advance to this class? (Pick 'YES' or 'NO'. 'NO' will take you back one screen. 'YES' will go to the next screen.) Dojo: By the power of the gods of light and darkness... Grant this soul new wisdom and powers in the service of mankind! (White light. When it fades, your character has advanced.) Dojo: has advanced to the class of ! (The following only occurs if you need different weapon types.) Here are weapons and armor to match your new skills. Your old possessions will be sent to the supply wagon. Dojo: Does anyone else seek advancement? (If your character is not level 10+ or 20+, this message comes up...) Dojo: needs more experience before seeking advancement. (If your character has already ascended to their Level 3 Class...) Dojo: But has already achieved the highest possible class! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- * LEAVE DOJO * Dojo: Keep the faith. (Exits to previous town/village.) (If Ash is carrying any of the special key items, the priest will stop you for a moment.) Dojo: Hold for a moment! Is that one of the holy keys that you have? Those are to be held only by the chosen one. Do you wish to undergo the Trials of Toroah? (Player selects "Transform" or "Forget it", this assumes you have selected "Transform".) Dojo: Then may your soul be sent to the spirit world for judgment!!! Fare thee well!!! (After beating the trial...) Dojo: Well done!! You survived the trial. You have returned with one of the prisms which holds the soul of Toroah! You have taken one more step on the path to enlightenment. We will keep this key for the next traveler who seeks the true path! Always keep the faith! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= CHARACTER BATTLE DEATH QUOTES ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (The following messages are displayed if a character is defeated in normal battle.) Ash: Aaaaaaargh!!! Diego: Urk! They got me! See ya later! Clint: Damn! Sorry, I've got to fall back! Clint 2: Argh! Kira!... I'm sorry!... Eleni: Eeeeek! I've got to retreat! Huxley: Yeowch!! I must make a strategic withdrawal! Kira: Oh! Lucky shot! Gotta sit this one out! Grog: Uggg!... Ya got me! Time to retreat! Dolan: Ouch! I must beat a hasty retreat! Sara: I must retreat! Good luck! Amon: Sorry I couldn't be more help!... Zohar: Gyahh!!... I shall return!... Clive: !!! Sorry Ash! I've got to retreat! Darius: You creeps! I won't forget this!! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= CHARACTER TRAIN DEATH QUOTES ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (The following messages are displayed if a character is on a car that is disconnected during the magic train battle in Act IV.) Ash: Rats!! They've gotten away!... Diego: Whoa!! It can't be!! Clint: Boy do I feel stupid!! Eleni: But we've come so far! Huxley: What... I can't hear you!... Grog: Yaah! What's going on? Dolan: Damn! We were too slow! Amon: I guess we blew it! Sara: No way!!! Zohar: It's no use! They've won! Darius: Hell!! They're smarter than they look! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= CHARACTER BRIDGE DEATH QUOTES ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (The following messages are displayed if a character is on a bridge that is destroyed during the Torog Mountains battle in Act V.) Ash: The bridge... No!! Diego: Whoa. We're goin' down! Clint: Look out below!! Eleni: An explosion? Yaaaaaaaaah!! Huxley: Ufffff! I'm falling!... Kira: The bridge!!... Grog: The explosion.. Whoaaaaa!!! Dolan: What the?!... The bridge is...! Amon: Did I hear a switch?!... Waaaaaaaaaaa!!!! Sara: Damn! Who pressed the switch! Zohar: Watch out! Don't hit that switch yet!!... Darius: Why you stupid fool!... ======================================================================= ======================================================================= CHARACTER RIVER DEATH QUOTES ======================================================================= ======================================================================= (The following messages are displayed if a character is in the riverbed when the sluice gate is opened, in the frontier village battle in Act V. NOTE: I was unable to get Darius' line for this part, as I had made him into a Hawknight which prevented him from drowning! If anyone can let me know what it is I'd appreciate it. mglanville@hotmail.com) Ash: Huh? What's this water? Yaaaah!!! Diego: Hey! Who released the water?! Clint: We can't swim with all this armor!... Eleni: Eeeyaaah!!! Why is the water... Huxley: No! I wasn't meant to drown! Kira: No! The flow is too fast! Grog: All sailors can swim, but this is too much! Dolan: Damn it! After all we've been through! Amon: We'll be swept away! Sara: Oh no! My clothes will be soaked! Zohar: The water velocity is too strong!! Darius: *see above ======================================================================= ======================================================================= ERRORS IN THE VANDAL HEARTS SCRIPT/TRANSLATION ======================================================================= ======================================================================= 1. Ash's last name is Lambert. We know this because he says it numerous times when he meets knew people. However, during the scene after the battle on the Rhine Bridge (the one which explodes), Ash and Eleni are talking down by the river at night. Eleni calls Ash "Mr. Lambard"! Is this a fault by Konami or is it supposed to be like that, suggesting that Eleni wasn't paying attention when Ash introduced himself?! 2. The man in the tavern in Kerachi says: "I collect strange and rare things objects." Well, this is just weird. Either he collects rare things or rare objects, surely not rare things objects! ======================================================================= ======================================================================= Vandal Hearts (TM) is an original game developed by KONAMI COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT TOKYO KONAMI CO., LTD. reserves all copyrights, trademarks, and other industrial property rights with respect to this game. ======================================================================= END =======================================================================