Update 79: Shambyela


♪ Three Crowns ♪



Immediately following Edelgard's defeat, the Alliance army discovers the existence of another adversary—a group operating behind the scenes within the Empire.

Claude suspects that if the true enemy is left unchecked, disaster will befall Fódlan. And so he cuts short the celebration, and the troops head for Shambhala, where this foe resides.

♪ No music ♪


♪ Recollection and Regret ♪


I could ask you the same question.
My brain's just...busy. Thoughts keep going around and around in there, and meanwhile my eyes are wide open. At times like this, I like to gaze up at the stars to clear my head. I've been that way since I was a kid. Looking up at the big, starry sky makes my dreams feel small...which makes it feel like I can actually make them come true. I didn't believe in gods when I was a kid. Maybe that's because the night sky took their place for me. Hey, Teach... Will you talk with me a while?


Where I come from, the people of Fódlan are looked down on as cowards. Technically, that cowardice runs in my veins. On my mother's side, anyway. That's why the people who were around me when I was growing up thought of me as an outsider. But I don't believe the people of Fódlan are cowards. That kind of perspective is just based on ignorance.
The person from Fódlan who I know best is my mother. She fell in love with a man from the wrong side of the border and had the guts to leave home to pursue that love.
I always threw that in the faces of anyone who tried to make a fool of me. My mother is proof the people of Fódlan aren't all cowards.
Just saying that doesn't achieve anything, though. I need to destroy the prejudices that have taken root in my homeland.
That's why I came here, to see Fódlan with my own eyes. I thought I might be able to find a new perspective that could help me change things.
And what did I find? That the people here view anyone who's an outsider as a beast of sorts. I was shocked. Even though our cultures and beliefs are completely different, our two lands have that much in common.
That's when I realized the only way to change things is to bring the whole world together and start anew. That's the dream I've been working toward since I first entered the Officers Academy five years ago. To unify the Alliance, and then all of Fódlan, and to bring a new set of values to this new land of mine...
After that, I'd expand that vision to the rest of the world. Break down the walls and let a new perspective come rushing in! Start all over!
Do you think that's just a crazy pipe dream? Or a brilliant ambition?
Can you rise to the challenge of that ambition?
Not too long ago, I would have said that it was too much for me to accomplish on my own.
But that's not how I feel anymore. And that's because I have you on my side now. Lately, I've spent a lot of time thinking about how I wouldn't have made it this far without you. You and me, Teach. We can go anywhere. Do anything. I hope that you always walk in step with me... At least until the day comes when we can look out at the peaceful world we've built. Together.



♪ No music ♪



What is it, Claude?
Those javelins of light... They were trying to use it to kill us at Fort Merceus, right? But then why not drop it on Garreg Mach? They must have known for a while that we were here.

♪ Gazing at Sirius ♪


Rhea! How are you feeling?
I am well enough... I cannot afford to rest while Fódlan is in danger.
What do you mean when you say they couldn't drop a javelin of light here?
Once, a very long time ago, a massive ball of light fell upon this monastery. However, that light mysteriously changed course in mid-air and landed in Ailell instead.
Ailell, the Valley of Torment... So that's what the wreckage of those javelins of light looks like.
The Holy Tomb is not only the location of the progenitor god's eternal slumber, but also a sacred vessel for a power that repels evil. Supposedly, the progenitor god built the Holy Tomb herself to protect her children from the evil light.
So the children of the goddess gathered in Zanado because of its proximity to the monastery? But we've fought at distant locations many times.
Despite that, the javelins of light only fell on Fort Merceus.
In his letter, Hubert said that he detected their magic when the fort fell. In other words, because they used a javelin of light, Hubert was able to pinpoint the location of their base.
So, they didn't use it before then because they didn't want us to know where their base is?
Ah, so they didn't want us to know where their base is, and that's why they didn't use it until now?
In any case, those javelins of light must be something they can't just use whenever they want. And they finally decided to use one at Merceus, where they were sure they'd be able to finish us off. It's only thanks to the whims of the Death Knight that we escaped with our lives. And no javelins of light have fallen since then.
It's possible that the enemy hasn't yet realized that we've learned the location of their base.
If so, their guard may be down, which makes this the perfect time for a surprise attack.
I will accompany you.
What?! No! That would be far too dangerous! Your long confinement weakened you greatly, did it not?
Those people have opposed us since ancient times. I wish to learn the truth about them for myself.
I...I understand. I will not stop you, but please take care not to overexert yourself.
We don't know exactly what we're up against here, but having you around is very reassuring, Rhea. Let's prepare to strike at Shambhala before they make their next move!



♪ Scales of the Goddess ♪


♪ A Gentle Breeze ♪


Claude, take my mind off it all! Regale me with another of your weird childhood stories.
OK then... How about an old story from a foreign land that my dad told me when I was a kid? Once upon a time, there was a white camel that got separated from his herd...




Was that story really worth bawling your eyes out over?
It was wonderful! Don't you know how moving that story is?
You know, I never thought much of it until today... But seeing you bawling like that, I do appreciate it a little more now.
What's that mean?
Well, you're always fake-crying, aren't you? Getting all misty-eyed to make people think you're a delicate flower.
What?! You're awful! I only cry when I'm sad!
Claim what you like, but I can spot real tears from fake tears any day of the week. Fess up.
Hm. If you understand me so well, maybe it's because you're no different.
How's that?
When you smile or laugh, it's not sincere. I can tell. I've only seen you genuinely smile a handful of times. Like when you're talking to the professor.
Well! Good one, Hilda. You hit me right in the gut.
I guess you're right. I'm not so different from you in that way. But how did you come to realize that? Have you been watching me that closely?
I'm afraid so. My eyes seem to wander toward you, of their own accord...
Waagh! Hold on! Forget I said that. I didn't say that.
Nope—no can do. Forgetting isn't something this crafty brain of mine is capable of.
Besides, my eyes have a tendency to wander in your direction too. How else do you think I found out about your fake crying?
Huh? What are you getting at?
Say, Hilda... Once everything's settled down, do you want to come meet my parents? I mean, don't get the wrong idea. You just seem interested in my family. Besides, you've opened up to me quite a bit, but I still haven't let you in on my own secrets. If you meet my parents, I think you'll understand. Though it might come as a bit of a surprise.
Your family? I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious.
Well then, if neither of us changes our minds before the opportunity presents itself... Let's agree to go visit my home together.
Although, if it's a long journey, my brother might not be too happy.
True... That might be a tough nut to crack. As tough as Fódlan's Locket...



♪ Scales of the Goddess ♪



♪ A Gentle Breeze ♪


Hah! You skipped right to the conclusion. That's exactly what Jeralt would do.
I know! I picked that up from him too.
That might not be the finest trait of his to emulate. In the end, it comes down to combat skill.
Regardless, I'm happy to hear you say all this.
Why's that?
I've strived to become a knight at the level of Captain Jeralt. But I'm an old man. I've come to accept that... I will never be his match.
No, don't say that! You can't give up!
No, no. It's quite all right. I know myself and what I'm capable of. But you're still young. Youth is a weapon of the utmost power. Infinite possibility. We are both inspired by Captain Jeralt, so I hereby bequeath to you my lofty ambitions.
That's— Wow. I'm sorry, I don't know what to say...
No need to cry, Leonie. I'm relieved. My dream is in good hands with you. Captain Jeralt is looking down proudly on you, I'm sure. Will you carry on his legacy?
Of course I will. Definitely.
Leonie... Uh... Do you remember the story I told you once, about what happened at the inn?
The hatchet throwing? Sure, I remember. Why?
Jeralt ran up quite a tab with all his drinking, and he left without paying. Now his debt is due. And, as you have declared that you'll carry on his legacy...


Wait, what?! That's got nothing to do with me!
Nothing to do with me either. I don't drink. Even so, all this time, I've been paying it back little by little. And it's not just that one place. He owes money in towns all over Fódlan.
I haven't been able to step into a tavern anywhere without being badgered for payment. So exhausting!
But now I can say that the debts are for you to cover! You're still young, so I'm sure you'll manage in time. Thank you, Leonie!


Take your lofty ambitions back! I don't want your stupid debts!



♪ Scales of the Goddess ♪



♪ Words to Believe In ♪


Hm? That smell...that sound... This is gold! A sizable stash of precious gold! What gives? Don't tell me you got your mitts on the church's vault...
You fool. It's simply a reward. Nothing to get in a tizzy over.
No way I can accept this, pal. Trust me, I haven't done anything to deserve it.
Just shut up and take it. Call it your fee for providing me with information. What you told me—the tale from your mother's homeland—it really helped me. Anyway, if you don't actually need it, I'm sure you'll find a use for it. Maybe take your mom out for a night on the town?
Looks like you're insisting, then. Fine! I'll use it to buy her some good grub. But I thought you didn't actually find any answers in my little tale.
Not quite. But it helped me in other ways. I've stopped vexing myself over unimportant details, like who I am or who I think I might be.
That's all fine and good, but is it really worth its weight in gold? This is coin we're talking about!
Look, do you want it or not? Is there something else you'd prefer?
Haa...
Wow. That was one hell of a sigh.
Look, you're better than me at thinking. And betting. But right this moment, you're the fool. You. Do I like gold? Yes. Do I want it? Need it? Yes and yes. While we're at it, I like brawling. Women too.
But there's something that I care about even more than gold, fighting, and women. Any ideas?
Oh, this is tough. Um, let me guess... Hopelessly losing every bet you place? A good drink?
You really think highly of me, don't you? Dead wrong! It's having a bash bro, a friend to fight with and fight for.
Seems I was a bit off base there.
I guess to you, everyone is either an underling or a business associate. But with a bash bro, there's no such thing as an "overdue loan." No hierarchies or other nonsense. It's someone to trust, both in and out of battle. Someone to share life's ups and downs with.
I...see. No need to reward a bash bro, I suppose.
That's the ticket. I know you were born into a world of trickery and exploitation, but you don't have to live like that anymore. Now you've got me.
I'm not accustomed to talks like this, I must admit. Hm... How can I frame this...
Nobody even knows my real name. Are you actually comfortable confessing such a warmth toward someone so...cold?
Clearly. No matter who you are or what you've done, I care about you. That won't ever change.
Haha, now that is fresh.
I told you my feelings and you laughed... Heh! You're one-of-a-kind, pal.
I'm sorry. I've got to admit I thought I'd heard it all, but you've managed to surprise me. It's the first time anyone has ever said something so sincere, without trying to get something out of me.
I could try to say it again with more swagger, if that helps.
Nah, no need. Bash bros. Has a nice ring to it.
From here forward, we are forever bash bros, friend!
I've got your back, pal.



♪ Scales of the Goddess ♪



We knew there was a secret group behind the Imperial army all this time. Now, we have a chance to make the first move against them. We have Hubert to thank for that. It's also thanks to him that we were able to rescue Rhea. I still have plenty of questions I'd like to ask her.


In comparison to this, the internal power struggles in the Alliance are utterly trivial.
Do you think we can defeat it?
There is simply no option but victory! The alternative is unthinkable.
Perhaps I will have the opportunity to strike the decisive blow on the enemy commander. That would secure my place in history for certain!


I'm sure the captain is proud of you right now. As am I, of course! I'm as proud as if I'd done it myself!
We still have opponents left to fight.
Sorry. I didn't mean to overdo it.
We still have to deal with Monica's group... Those who killed the captain. We'll knock 'em down so hard that they can't get back up!


We gotta prepare for the assault, but that hasn't changed my routine!
You're doing plenty.
All the training...and eating...I do is for the sake of Fódlan! Gotta stay strong...and fed...to keep it safe!


It's that group who caused the javelin of light to fall, right? It just doesn't seem like something a human is capable of. I'm not prone to flinching, but I don't feel great about any of this...


Those two descriptions are totally at odds. Which version's correct? I don't know what to think. But I guess that's the nature of history. I wonder what the generations that come after us will say about the battle we're about to fight.


Then this is my real opportunity for revenge. There's no way I can back down from this one.
You're not scared?
No, I'm OK. Actually, I'm eager to get out there and fight. This is what I've been training for.
If we lose, it's the end for Fódlan. So we have to win, even if it kills us.


Do you remember what Solon called us?
Beasts?
That's right. He called us beasts. Meanwhile, he refers to himself as "the Savior."
Who exactly is he saving?


Professor! I just got word from the opera company. I don't know if everyone survived, but it looks like they should be able to mount a revival.

♪ The Forgotten ♪


If only Holst had come along for the ride. But he's working out things with Almyra or something, yeah? Even so, maybe we better warn him about those-who-whatever-in-the-dark. They might be whatevering in his neck of the woods too. Me aside, no one's on the same level as Holst. If the Alliance is attacked while he's gone, they'll be in trouble.


Absolutely.
You seem pretty calm for what it is we're staring at. Where's your fire, huh?
I imagine this battle will be a defining moment in history. All or nothing. Let's do this.


I think war was basically inevitable no matter what Eddy did, with those creeps pulling the strings.
Come to think of it, I wonder if the lady who kidnapped me was...
Never mind. Not worth mentioning.

This folly must end now!
Do you think we have a chance?
You go to war harboring such doubts? Pray keep these fainthearted ruminations to yourself! What is frightening is to have scant idea of what is in store. Now that we know, victory shall be ours.


♪ Spiderweb ♪


About what, exactly?
Who you really are. Villains are after you for your blood. There's no doubt that you're someone special. And that's why Seteth is always worrying about you so much, right?
Well, yes. I see no reason to hide that fact.
But just what makes that blood of yours so special? More than anything I've been wanting to find out Teach's true identity, but yours is bothering me almost as much. Somehow I can't seem to stop thinking about you. It's almost like a crush. I have a crush on your secrets, sweet Flayn!
Ha! Such flattery.
I've tried asking Seteth, but there's no sign of him budging on the issue. At this point, I guess I just need better bargaining skills. How about this... If you tell me the truth, I'll do anything you say.
That is not something I am willing to share, unfortunately. However, since you are so passionate on the matter, I will promise you something.
What's that?
If you somehow manage to uncover the truth of my identity, I will acknowledge it as truth.
That's real nice of you and all, but I think if I could come up with the truth, I'd be able to tell from your reaction anyway. You're not great at hiding your emotions, after all.
If you do somehow figure it out, then I would ask something of you, Claude. I would ask that you reveal your own true identity.
Now that's a request I wasn't expecting!
It has been clear to me for quite some time now that you are no ordinary noble. I have been pondering...well, you...quite a lot lately. The curiosity is enough to drive me mad!
I see... Well, that's an interesting turn of events. Looks like we both have a little crush on our hands, eh? I hope the day comes when we can talk freely about both of our identities...



♪ The Forgotten ♪




♪ Somewhere to Belong ♪


What is it, Hilda? Ah, a letter. From your brother?
That's right. Though part of me thinks it's some stranger imitating my brother's handwriting. He's never given me this much praise.
"Hilda, you've learnt the value of persistence." "You're really maturing." Stuff like that.
Usually his letters are like, "I'm worried about you," and, "Stop being so lazy."
Since I have fought by your side, I can assure you that his praise is genuine and entirely deserved.
I've written about fighting in plenty of letters. Why's he so gushy this time around?
I would venture to guess that your depictions of battle are more passionate than before. It's no surprise that such authenticity would resonate with a veteran warrior like your brother.
If that's true, I have you to thank. You've inspired me to throw myself into battle.
Does everyone think I'm a tough warrior now? I don't want to be stuck with their high expectations.
Would that be so terrible? You are gifted, you know. Not to say that your lackadaisical nature has failed to endear itself to me.
I'll choose to take that as a compliment.
Speaking of letters...did you keep your promise? Did you, uh, mention me?
I did! I told my brother all about you. I said you were a uniquely gifted leader, who could inspire people to be their best selves. And I said that you'll be a real asset to the Alliance. I also told him how I wished you could join our family. He responded that he'd be honored to call you his brother.
Truly?! To have such a valiant brother would be beyond my wildest expectations!
Um— Lorenz. You know what I mean about you joining our family, right?
I believe I do. And I confess, if I am correct, that the same thought has preoccupied me as well.
But you must forgive me. Now is not the time.
Before we can consider our own future, we must first end this war. We must secure a peaceful world.
And if we do attain a peaceful world, then what? Come on! Just say it.
As much as I'd like to grant that request, I cannot. This is something that will deeply affect our lives.
It must be said at the proper time and place, with the most artfully chosen words, and the perfect offering. I am Lorenz Hellman Gloucester, after all!







♪ The Forgotten ♪




♪ Somewhere to Belong ♪


Huh. Oh! Whoa! This is incredible! And so shiny!
You're like an artist, Hilda! How did you do this?!
Just like I told you. I put the flowers and the shiny rocks in a bottle, and then poured in some resin to preserve everything. I thought the flowers you had were looking a little pathetic, so I added a few of my own. It was hard work, making sure the flowers and the stones were spread evenly, getting rid of the air bubbles...
What's this? The part you hang around your neck? I thought you'd use the one I gave you...
Oh, yeah, no. That's a cord I braided. I was going to use metal, but some people are allergic to metal, so I figured, better safe than sorry. Anyway, you didn't give me much to work with, and look what I pulled off! I'm a miracle worker.
It's gorgeous! Beautiful! I've never seen anything like it! Thank you, Hilda!
Whoa, hold up, what's with the blubbering?
It's just... I bet my sister never got anything so pretty in her whole life! She's had to deal with so much because of me! I never got her anything this nice and cute before! She's gonna love it...and be so happy...
Ah, um, OK. Yes, OK, that's enough. Come on, you're embarrassing me here...
If you're really that happy, I'm glad I put some effort into something. For once.
Don't— Don't you always put effort into things?
Hah! That's sweet of you, but no. I don't want to put in effort and then disappoint people. It's dispiriting, not to mention tiring.
But what if they're not disappointed? Then they'd feel great and you'd feel great too!
Yeah, you have a point there. I guess I'm realizing that now. You know, thanks to you, I'm starting to see things from my brother's perspective.
What do you mean? Do you have a big bro too?
I do. I've always thought of him as an overprotective nuisance, but now I feel thankful.
Looking at you, I couldn't help but think, "Eh, sometimes big brothers are OK."
I didn't do anything special though. It's natural for a big bro to look after his little sis. Oh! That reminds me! I still haven't found anything special enough to repay you for the necklace. I got an idea though. How about I help you make a tough looking necklace for your big bro?
No need. I have a better idea.
When the war's simmered down, why don't you and your sister come visit me?
Really? That's it?
Yeah, I want to make sure it suits her. And then I can adjust the cord, if I need to.
Of course we'll come visit! I told my sis all about you and she already wants to meet ya!
Well, good. I look forward to it. In the meantime, hold me close to your heart.
Uh...what?
That's what the necklace would say, if it could talk! "Hold me close to your heart."



♪ The Forgotten ♪




♪ Somewhere to Belong ♪




Ah, Ignatz, I accidentally knocked over my teapot. I'd drunk all the tea already, thank the goddess, but the tea leaves went right into the carpet.
Oh, that's a mess. Here, let me help. That can leave stains if you're not careful.
But don't you have somewhere to be?
Oh, no, don't worry. I'm on a break.
What's that in your hands? Oh, painting supplies. You were gonna do some painting, weren't you?
Ah, yes. The weather's quite splendid, and I found a place where some gorgeous flowers are blooming. But the flowers aren't going anywhere this second. Let's clean this up!
OK...




That's OK. It didn't stain, at least! We picked all the leaves out of the carpet.
Still going painting? Or is it too late in the day?
No, I think time-wise it'll be fine... If you're not doing anything, Hilda, would you care to join me?
...
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable! Forget what I said. I'm sure you're busy anyway.
You didn't let me say anything.
Well, no, but you didn't reply, so I thought you didn't want to.
I never said I didn't want to. I was just surprised.
I'd love to see those pretty flowers you mentioned. I'm glad you invited me.
Whew, that's good! Wait, you're...you're glad?
Of course I am! I like being invited to things, silly.
Right, right, of course. It's affirming.
Yeah, exactly. See? You get it. So there's no need to worry that an invitation is burdening someone.
It feels good to be asked.
Of course, of course. Well then. In addition to seeing the flowers with me, would you like to help with my painting?
I wouldn't want to screw up your opus. I'm not much of a painter.
No, I meant that I'd like to paint you, with the flowers all around you...
Oh! That's too much, isn't it? Forget I said anything!
Silly, you didn't even let me answer. But you're right. I'm not up for that.
I'm sorry, I—
I'm not up for that, unless your painting of me will look really, really cute. Can you make that happen?
Huh?! Yes, of course! I'll paint you cute as a button!
Good! Shouldn't be too hard. I can feel a very cute smile coming on.



♪ The Forgotten ♪




♪ Somewhere to Belong ♪


Ooh, thanks! I'll put some tea on. Have a seat.




It's no trouble, no trouble at all. Everything tastes better with friends, don't you think? I give you help, you give me sweets, we have a little tea party... It's a good arrangement, I'd say. I'm used to it now, so if it changed suddenly, I would feel disoriented.
I suppose if you're enjoying yourself, then it can't be that bad.
Sure. You don't seem to mind listening while I gab, so I'm enjoying myself plenty!
But do let me know if I'm too boring.
No, no. You're not boring at all. In fact, you're, um, very good at talking.
You're also good with your hands. You can clean and organize better than almost anyone. I envy you...
Oh stop, I'm blushing! I'm not as great as all that.
We're both a lot different on the inside than we look on the outside. Don't you think?
How do you mean?
People who see you think you're so proper, but you're actually clumsy!
That's why I help you. Because there are some things you just can't do.
I'm sorry you always have to clean up after me...
I didn't say I hated it. In fact, you've taught me a few new techniques I can use to persuade people. Maybe I'll start imitating you a little bit. I'll do the Marianne.
That sheepish "sorry," and those quavering downcast eyes...
But that might not work as well for me. People would probably assume that I'd hit my head.
Oh, well...
Aw! Marianne, laughing at me! So rude, and yet, so adorable.
I'm so sorry. I just can't help it. When I imagine you doing those things, I—
Yeah, yeah. It's rather un-Hilda-like, I'll admit... Ahem. OK. That's enough laughing.
Hahaha! I'm so—haha!—so sor-sor—
Hey, are you all right? That tea's hot, Marianne! Be careful!
Ah, yes. Ouch! Hot!
Come on! What did I just say?!
I know. I'm sor—owowow! Hot!
Oh boy. A real steady hand, that Marianne. It's nice to see her laugh...



♪ The Forgotten ♪




♪ A Dark Sign ♪


You say that, but...
I do not care what you have to say! I could not bear to stand here and do nothing!
Flayn...




Eavesdropping, were you? Well, you are spot on.
I do wish he would leave me be and learn to trust me.
Listen, Flayn. Before I take a stab at your true identity, there's something I want to ask.
And what is that?
Seteth is your father... Isn't he?
Um, pardon me?
I've been thinking about this for a while. And my latest theory doesn't make sense otherwise. That overprotective attitude of his... It seems like more than just sibling concern. More like a father protecting his only daughter.
How can you be so sure? Hilda's brother and Raphael are quite similar, are they not?
They're both pretty clingy, sure, but even they are willing to let their sisters live their own lives.
How can you be so sure? Hilda's brother is not so different, you know.
He's pretty clingy, sure, but even he's willing to let her live her own life. Whereas Seteth... There's something more at play there. An entirely different dynamic.
I imagine that is because I...
Even taking into account your special blood and the people targeting you because of it... I feel like Seteth has devoted his whole being to you. Like only a father would.
Have you confronted my brother with your theory?
Ha! As if he'd tell me anything even if I did. Though maybe if I tried to trick a reaction out of him...




That sounds most entertaining. I would love to see you give it a try. Perhaps you could request, "Father, please grant me your daughter's hand in marriage!" Hahaha! Ah, I can feel my face turning red!
Hey now, don't joke about that. That's something that should be done properly, when the right time comes...
Do you mean to say that the right time will come eventually, then? Hmm?
Well, you never know what the future holds. But forget that for now, I want to talk about—
As though this were something easily shelved! This topic holds far more appeal than that of identities, if you ask me!



♪ The Forgotten ♪



♪ No music ♪


Well, Abyss is a big place. Maybe it's time to start on your next epic quest—giving up and going home. People are dying up there, after all. We don't have time for this sort of thing.
What sort of thing? You?

♪ Words to Believe In ♪


Yeah, I'm the next big thing in Crestology. How flattering. You gotta stop saying things like that or someone might get the wrong idea. Lucky for you, I'm used to your weirdness by now.
I'm sorry my sincerity rubbed you the wrong way. I meant what I said, but that's fine.
Now back to your ability... I've discovered that this power can be attributed to your blood. The magic originates from your Crest. There have been leaps and bounds in research on summoning magic focused on an arbitrary target. The only remaining problems are perception and distance. Though, it could be argued—
Blah, blah, big words, blah. I don't even get what you're saying.
You don't have to understand it to appreciate its implications. Here's the connection—once we understand your power, it's essential that we have a theoretical grasp on how to control it.
All right, all right. I'll do my best.
That...isn't as scientific as what I had in mind.
I'll probably need your help wrapping my head around the theoretical stuff. You up for that?
No pressure. Well, people might die if you say no, so some pressure, I guess?
Huh? Why me?! Ugh... I guess it can't be helped.
This isn't what I had in mind, but I guess I'm the only man for the job, come to think of it.
Sounds great... Hey, if you're tired, there's no shame in calling it a day and heading back to the surface.
It's more walking than I expected. I've lost sleep over this. But you're way more important than a...
Oh, right. You don't like me when I'm sincere. Welp, let's get on with the adventure, then. We'll check out that hidden passage next. We've got to find that book that Timotheos is said to have left behind. Come along.
Fine. But what if we don't find the book and you can't figure out a way to solve this?
I've come this far. Now I've got to see it through to the end. How will I ever nap in peace otherwise?
Sounds like we might be stuck together for a while.



♪ The Forgotten ♪




♪ A Dark Sign ♪




What makes you so certain this incident was caused by her sighing? It seems unfair to cast blame until you're truly sure.


Uh-oh. You guys are talking about me, aren't you?




Hey! You didn't answer my question!
He doesn't care what we have to say. Forget about it.
No, you told me you had nothing to do with this. I can't just leave it alone.

♪ Recollection and Regret ♪


But I do! What if they pressured you into confessing something you hadn't actually done?
They mean well, but they seem to think they have good reasons to suspect you.
Those suspicions could lead to forceful questioning. They'll do anything to get to the bottom of this.
You're probably right. If he has his way, they'll do whatever they can to pin it on me.
What about you? There isn't some part of you that agrees with that creep?
No. I know you don't sigh unless you absolutely can't help it. You would never endanger people like that unless something pushed you over the edge.
I know this wasn't your fault. You said as much, and I believe you.
That's sweet...but unfortunately your conviction isn't good for much on its own. We have no proof.
Then we'll find proof! If you didn't cause it, then something else did. We just have to find out what.
I'll investigate the site where we were attacked. There could be a monster nest nearby.
You're so darn trusting, Freckles. For all you know, I could be lying.
Your commitment to honesty is as strong as mine. You'd never turn your back on our common bond!
...
You're just like the Luna Knight!
Hey, come on! I was being serious!
Sorry! I'm not laughing at you, I promise.
I guess part of me was hoping to meet one of those storybook heroes. Now I finally have.
If that's how you feel...then I'm going to live up to it. I'll do my best to make sure you never sigh again!



♪ The Forgotten ♪


♪ Scales of the Goddess ♪


♪ Recollection and Regret ♪


No, I was waiting for you.
For me?
Um, I wanted to apologize. You kept trying to encourage me, but I just avoided you in return...
No, I'm the one who should be sorry.
I only wanted to give you some advice, but I ended up running you off.
Can I tell you something, Ashe?
Of course!
You said that my Crest is an extraordinary gift, but I don't agree with that at all.
Don't people have more important qualities?
What do you mean?
Like, um, how much we help those around us. Or whether or not we can make other people smile? Sylvain says that a person's value is in their smile.
Sylvain, huh? He really can turn anything into a line.
I'm trying to be less negative. I've also realized that I should have a dream to pursue, like you do. I think people who have something to work toward are more fulfilled. Yet here I am, living an empty life without a dream...
That still sounds kind of negative to me.
What does being fulfilled even mean here, anyway? Are you saying that people without dreams live empty lives? I don't agree with that.
When I was a kid, I was too busy worrying about my next meal to have a dream. Was my life empty then?
That's not what I mean at all! I just don't know... I don't know how to find my dream...
Hey, chin up! Maybe I can help.
I'm sure we can come up with something for you in no time if we put our heads together.
You'll help me?
Absolutely! Unless, uh, you don't want me to, of course.
No, I would appreciate that. I want to find something worth working toward...
Together. With you. And with my head held high.



♪ Scales of the Goddess ♪




♪ Somewhere to Belong ♪


Huh? Felix... Why are you hiding there?


No? Then what are you here for? You don't even have a real reason, do you?
No, I don't.
Then why...
Because of you.
What?! What's that supposed to mean?
I want you to sing for me. I hear your voice when I'm asleep, or in battle... It's like...it's like I'm your captive.
My captive! What are you saying? Oh my, I'm suddenly really flustered...
I can't help it... Ugh! I don't know what I'm saying. Forget I said anything.
Felix! Are you...blushing?
I don't know. Shut up. I'm not blushing.
Um...
Uh...
Well! If you feel like that about it... I suppose I could sing for you sometimes. If you'd like that sort of thing.
Oh?
I'd better go. Bye.
Hey, wait! You just got here... Do you want to hear me sing or not?
Uh, yes. I do.
Well, what song do you want me to sing? Bears, swamp beasties, boxes, or dungeon?
I'd like to hear all of them. If you don't mind. Starting with the library song, in full.
Sing for me. Please, Annette?
Well... OK. Just this once...



♪ Scales of the Goddess ♪




♪ Those Who Sow Darkness ♪


It's like an underground city. I've never seen buildings like these before.
It's like an ancient ruin... But not just because of its appearance.
It's like an ancient ruin...and not just because it's old. It's hard to explain.
I don't recall ever seeing architecture like this.
It is magnificent in a sense, but I could hardly call it beautiful. Even the air feels stagnant.
In any case, it seems like we need to go deeper. Let's look around and see if we can find some stairs.


...
Something on your mind?
No. It is simply... We must defeat those who slither in the dark, no matter what happens. But if my conjecture is correct, the one who they will wish to kill the most... Is you, dear child.
Why me?
They are aware that you can use the Sword of the Creator. Your body houses the same power they once bestowed upon Nemesis. That is why...I fear for you.
That's not much to go on.

♪ Unfulfilled ♪


Once this battle is over... I will explain everything. I will tell you all I know about who you really are.



♪ Shambhala (Area 17 Redux) ♪



























♪ No music ♪







♪ God-shattering Star (Intro) ♪




















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