============================================================================= Xenoblade Chronicles - Heart-to-Heart Scripts ============================================================================= Introduction: ============================================================================= Here are the scripts of all 63 Heart-to-Hearts interactions in the game covering all dialogue choices. Some Heart-to-Hearts appear only after certain events in the story. To avoid spoiling yourself, please ensure a particular Heart-to-Heart's title is visible in your game before reading its script in this guide. The order they are presented in are as on the Xenoblade Wiki at http://xenoblade.wikia.com/wiki/Heart-To-Heart ============================================================================= Abbreviations used in this guide: ============================================================================= Sk = Shulk Fi = Fiora Rn = Reyn Dd = Dunban Sa = Sharla Me = Melia Ri = Riki * at the end of a line = shouting speech bubble (text in round brackets) = thought bubble ============================================================================= Scripts: ============================================================================= Sunrise in the Park Fi: Hey, Shulk... Fi: You remember that time we watched the sun rise, right here? Fi: It was when we were quite young. Sk: Yeah, I remember. We came because... Sk: I invited you. (a) You and Dunban... (b) (a) ---- Fi: You don't remember, do you? Fi: And since when have you ever invited me to do anything? Sk: Oh...erm... I could have sworn that was what happened... Fi: No, silly! Fi: I had a big fight with Dunban and ran out of the house. Sk: Oh yeah! It's coming back to me now. Sk: If I'm remembering right... Sk: Even I got shouted at! (a1) You wanted to marry me?! (a2) (a1) ++++ Fi: Yeah, Dunban was pretty angry. Fi: But I shouldn't have said I was going to run away from home... Sk: You really had him shaken up. He was worried about you. Fi: I know. Fi: I'm sorry. You didn't have to stay with me all night. Sk: Of course I did. Sk: Besides, it was fun! I'd do it again in a heartbeat. (a2) ---- Fi: Shulk, I can't believe you! * Fi: OK, I might have said some stuff about wanting to be your bride... * Fi: But you promised you'd forget about it! * Sk: Haha! I'm sorry, Fiora. I couldn't resist. Sk: I mean, if I'm honest... Sk: I quite liked the idea of you being my bride. Fi: Shulk, don't get any funny ideas in your head! Fi: I was just a kid! I barely even knew what a bride was! Fi: (He still remembers! Oh, Shulk...) (b) ++++ Sk: You had that fight and fell out with one another. Fi: Yeah. It wasn't pretty. Fi: Really it had nothing to do with you... Fi: But I still dragged you out and made you stay up all night. Sk: I'm glad we did it, even though it was only that one time. Sk: We talked for hours and hours about all our hopes and dreams... Sk: And then you fell asleep on my arm as we looked up at the stars. Fi: ...Oh no! * Sk: What? What is it? Fi: (Oh, Shulk!) Fi: (I have this terrible feeling I said something really embarrassing.) Fi: (Like... I wanted to marry him?!) Fi: Umm...Shulk? You don't... remember what I said back then? Sk: Kind of. (b1) You wanted to go fishing. (b2) (b1) ++++ Sk: I can't quite put my finger on it. Sk: Hold on, I know I'll get it... Fi: Oh, er, don't worry! Fi: No need to remember. Forget I even brought it up. Fi: Anyway, that's the end of that conversation! Fi: Let's talk about something else. Sk: OK. Whatever you say, Fiora. Fi: (Yes! I think I pulled it off. He doesn't suspect a thing.) Fi: (I hope he remembers one day...) Fi: (But for now...it's just a bit too embarrassing!) (b2) ---- Fi: Umm... Did I? Fi: I guess I might have said that, but I'm talking about something else... Sk: No, you definitely said you wanted us to all go fishing! Sk: So we went the next day. You, me and Reyn. Sk: You caught the biggest fish! I'll never forget the size of it. Fi: Oh yeah. I remember now. Fi: Yeah, it was fun. We had a great time, didn't we? Fi: (Shulk, you've really forgotten all about it.) Fi: (I just hope you remember one day.) ============================================================================= Overlooking the Colony Rn: What's up, Sharla? Sa: I look at the colony, and all I can think of is how things used to be. Rn: Back when you lived in Colony 6, you mean? Rn: Before all this happened? Sa: Yeah. Sa: I think about what Colony 6 was like back then... Sa: And then I remember the state it's in now... and it breaks my heart. Rn: Do you wanna go back there? (a) It'll all be fine! (b) (a) ++++ Rn: If you went back you could help out with the reconstruction. Sa: I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought about it. Sa: But I can't. Not right now. Rn: Why not? Rn: All the survivors from the camp would love to see you again. Sa: I just feel like...it's not time yet. Sa: We still have battles to fight. Sa: How can I even think about going home and living a peaceful life? Rn: Don't be so hard on yourself! (a1) You're overthinking it. (a2) (a1) ++++ Rn: Everyone deserves a break sometimes. You especially. Rn: Otherwise you'll keel over from all the stress! Sa: You're right, of course. I can't do everything on my own. Rn: Now you're getting it! Rn: What would you do without me? Sa: You do make me smile, Reyn. Sa: I have to know... Sa: Would you be angry right now if I hadn't agreed with you? Rn: Of course I'd be angry! We're friends, aren't we? Sa: Oh, I see. Sa: You'd be angry...as a friend. Rn: A-Ah...I mean...well...not just 'cos we're friends. Rn: Why are you laughing? Sa: Oh, no reason. Sa: I never stay sad when I'm around you. I'm glad I met you, Reyn. Rn: That went way over my head. But whatever! I'm happy too. (a2) ---- Rn: You know, if you think too hard, your brain can stop working. Sa: You...sound like this has happened to you a lot, Reyn. Rn: Once or twice. I used to think a lot, once upon a time. Rn: But then I learnt that I like doing stuff better than thinking about it. Rn: Maybe it's just 'cos I'm stupid, but it feels more natural that way. Sa: I'm not gonna argue with you. Sa: I can't quite see you as a deep thinker. Sa: Now, Reyn the man of action... That's you all over! Rn: Right? Rn: So after that I stopped worrying about stuff. It's easier that way. Sa: I wish I could be like you, Reyn. I'm always worrying. Rn: That's why I'm here, Sharla! Rn: While you're busy worrying, I can be your hands and your feet! Rn: So you don't have to lift a finger! Sa: That's sweet, Reyn. Maybe I'll take you up on the offer sometime. Sa: Just remember, you have to be prepared to do the tough jobs! Rn: Don't have to tell me twice! You can leave everything to me! Sa: I can never stay sad for long when you're around, Reyn. Sa: When we get back to Colony 6, you and me will get stuck in! (b) ---- Sa: Fine? Fine?! Sa: You think the reconstruction is going to be easy?! Rn: It's OK. They all know you're out here fighting for them. Sa: You listen here, Reyn! Sa: If I'm out here fighting, that means I'm not back there helping out! Rn: Let me put it this way... (b1) So? (b2) (b1) ++++ Rn: You wanna help out with the reconstruction, right? Rn: Well, we're fighting so the world can achieve peace. Rn: In a way, that means we're reconstructing the entire world! Sa: Reyn, I... Rn: Think about it. Rn: Unless we have peace, there's no point even rebuilding Colony 6. Rn: It could all just come crashing down again. Sa: I see your point. Sa: It's funny how I never seem to get the simplest of things. Rn: I know why. It's 'cos you think it's all your fault or something. Rn: Let go of all that guilt and things'll be much clearer. Sa: It's true, I do feel guilty. Sa: But honestly, I still don't think I'd have figured this out on my own. Sa: That's all down to you. Rn: Stick your head in the sand and all you get is sand in your eyes. Rn: From now on, don't hold it in. You can talk to me about anything. Rn: Treat me like a punching bag! Rn: You know, a punching bag for talking to. Sa: You're too kind, Reyn. Thanks. Sa: I'll look forward to sparring with you! Rn: Great! If there's one thing I can do, it's take knocks on the head. Rn: It's basically my job. Sa: Wait, are you talking about actual sparring now? Sa: Because I'm up for that too! (b2) ---- Sa: What are you talking about? This is important! Rn: Is it? Rn: Don't get me wrong, it's a bad situation. Rn: Get angry as you want about it. Rn: But what good is second guessing yourself supposed to do? Sa: What do you mean, second guessing? Rn: Let me ask you this... Rn: Whose idea was it for you to tag along with me and Shulk? Sa: M-mine, I guess... Rn: So why don't you give yourself a break and concentrate on that? Rn: There's just not enough time in the day to worry about everything. Sa: Yeah, I can see what you mean. Sa: I should concentrate on the road ahead. Sa: Right now, my goal is making them pay. Rn: Wait, what? No! Rn: Your goal is stopping anyone else from getting hurt! Isn't it? Sa: Oh. Well, yes, I suppose. Sa: But I can't do it on my own. Sa: That's why I need your help, Reyn. To protect my friends back home. Rn: You don't even need to ask. We're on the same team! Rn: And I don't wanna lose anyone either. Rn: So let's show 'em how it's done! Sa: Hehe. I knew you were going to say that! Sa: Reyn, you're something special. You know that, right? Rn: Was it ever in doubt? I'm as special as they come! ============================================================================= Enduring Friendship Rn: Every time we come here, it brings back memories. Rn: Same for you, right? Sk: Yep. We've been through a lot together, you and me. Rn: Oh yeah! You remember that time? You know, that one time! Sk: When we had that big fight? (a) When Dunban told us off? (b) (a) ++++ Rn: That's the one. Rn: It's easily the biggest bust-up we've ever had. Rn: In all the years I've known you, nothing else has come close. Sk: It was bad, all right. Sk: I'm just glad we made up afterwards. Rn: You know, for such a big argument... Rn: I don't even remember what it was about. Sk: We were really young. Sk: It was probably just some silly kid thing. Rn: You're probably right. Rn: Hey, Shulk... Do you ever think about it? Rn: Without me bringing it up, I mean. Sk: Of course. (a1) Nope, never. (a2) (a1) ++++ Sk: I think about it sometimes. Sk: If we'd never had that argument, I don't think we'd be friends now. Rn: That's just what I was thinking! Rn: We must have said some pretty harsh things to each other... Rn: But it was worth it, right? It's why we're such good mates now! Sk: Yeah, it was definitely worth it. Sk: You know, it's funny how we think alike sometimes. Sk: I'd have figured you were still angry. Rn: Nah, not anymore. Rn: But you did get on my nerves a bit back then. Rn: You were just too clever, man. It got under my skin. Sk: And I thought you were just this big, dumb brute. Sk: Hey, I guess that's what we were arguing about. Rn: Yeah, that sounds about right. Rn: But after all that fighting, we came out stronger. Rn: At least we learnt about each other. Sk: You know, I don't say this enough. Thanks, Reyn. Sk: I couldn't ask for a better friend. Rn: No problem, Shulk. Rn: And remember, you don't have to hold back. Rn: You can call me a big, dumb brute anytime you like. Rn: I'll take it on the chin! (a2) ---- Sk: What difference does it make if I think about it or not? Rn: What d'ya mean? * Rn: Are you saying it don't matter if we ever became friends or not? * Sk: No! That's not what I mean at all. Sk: I'm just saying...I don't have to think about it every day. Sk: We're friends now, and that's what matters. Not some silly argument. Rn: Oh, right. Now I get you. Rn: I guess it's different for me. Rn: I'm stupid, so I just forget stuff if I don't keep thinking about it. Sk: You say the funniest things. Sk: I bet I'm just as bad though. Sk: There are probably tons of important things I've forgotten. Rn: Maybe, maybe not. Rn: The point is, we got everything off our chests back then. Rn: And now we hardly ever argue. Pretty great, huh? Sk: And even if we do have another fight, I know we'll survive it. Sk: We'll be friends forever. At least, that's what I'm hoping. Rn: Me too, man. Me too. (b) ---- Rn: Hold on a minute, Shulk. Rn: Be honest now. You're remembering it wrong. Sk: I am? Rn: Well, not...wrong exactly... Rn: But that's not the important part, man! Think harder! Sk: What do you mean? Rn: You remember why he got angry with us, right? Sk: Of course I do! (b1) Why was it again...? (b2) (b1) ++++ Sk: You and me... Sk: We made Fiora cry! Rn: Exactly! Rn: And...wait, why was she crying again? Sk: Reyn! How can you have forgotten already? Sk: You're the one who was reminding me! Sk: Anyway, if I think back... Sk: Weren't we having a massive argument? Rn: Oh yeah! That was it. Not often we fight that bad. Sk: It's rare all right. In fact... Sk: We could count the number of times we've fought on one finger! Rn: It kinda makes me smile, though. Rn: If it weren't for that fight, I don't think we'd be mates. Sk: I was thinking the same thing. Sk: It's amazing how we think alike sometimes. I'm glad we're friends. Rn: Me too, Shulk. Friends to the end, that's us! (b2) ---- Sk: I... just can't remember. Sorry. Rn: Shulk? You seriously telling me you forgot? Sk: I kinda remember...us having a fight or something? Rn: That's the exact reason! Rn: And there's you saying you don't remember. Rn: She took one look at us going at it, and she burst into tears! Sk: Is that what happened? I'm still a bit fuzzy on the details. Sk: But I do know that if we hadn't had that argument... Sk: We probably wouldn't be friends. Rn: You can say that again. Rn: Dunban was all angry, and then you made a joke and we laughed! Sk: Oh, now I remember! Sk: Even Fiora got caught up in it. Sk: She started laughing even though she was still crying. It was great! Rn: Let's just make sure we keep on laughing. Rn: Even when we get on each other's nerves! Sk: Couldn't have put it better myself. Sk: That's what being best friends is all about! ============================================================================= A Heropon's Perspective Ri: Sharla! Tell Riki about Mechon! Sa: The Mechon? Why? Ri: Riki know nothing about history of Mechon with Hom Hom. Ri: Riki feel stupid! Sa: I'm not the best person to ask. (a) This is unusual for you, Riki. (b) (a) ---- Sa: There's so much to cover, I'm not sure where to start... Ri: Sharla should hurry up! Sa: I'm sorry, Riki. It's just... Sa: For as long as I remember, the Mechon have been the enemy. Sa: But if you asked me why, I couldn't answer you. Ri: Yeah! Riki not know too! Sa: Riki, what do you think of when someone mentions the Mechon? Ri: Mechon look like sad machines. Sa: That's an unusual perspective. (a1) What are you talking about?! (a2) (a1) ++++ Sa: I've never seen them that way, but I guess I can see what you mean. Ri: Riki always think this! Sa: Well, our backgrounds are very different. Sa: I've never had time to think about their feelings. Ri: Sharla has lost many friends. Riki not sensitive to Sharla. Ri: Riki always pon around when should talk serious. Sa: No, Riki, it's not that. Sa: It's actually quite nice to find someone who thinks differently. Sa: The Mechon have never attacked your home, thank goodness. Sa: So it's natural that you'd have a different perspective. Ri: Sharla so kind to Riki. Ri: Riki not know what to say. Sa: It's all right, Riki! You don't have to say anything. (a2) ---- Sa: Are you saying you feel sorry for them?! Ri: Sharla not like Riki's words? Sa: Well...I guess I don't mean that. Sa: We're so different. We're bound to see things differently. Ri: Riki think Mechon with faces most sad looking. Sa: I don't disagree with you there. Sa: When we found out there were Homs inside them... Sa: It was shocking, to say the least. Ri: Riki feel lucky to travel with Sharla and friends. Riki learn lots! Ri: Riki feel scared most of the time, but see and hear many things. Ri: They make Riki better Heropon! (b) ++++ Sa: I mean, curiosity is a good thing, but what's brought this on? Ri: Riki glad Sharla asked! Ri: When Mechon attack colonies, Riki and villagers know nothing. Ri: Just sit in village pon pon ponning about like normal day! Sa: I guess Makna wasn't really on the Mechon's radar. Ri: Riki never saw a Mechon before. Only heard of them in whispers. Ri: On Prison Island was the first time Riki saw faced one. Riki scared! Ri: Sharla was brave thought. Riki embarrased [sic]. Sa: Don't beat yourself up, Riki. Sa: I've been fighting the Mechon since I was... well, your height. Ri: Sharla and friends stronger than Riki. Riki not good enough. Sa: That's nonsense, Riki! (b1) No, Riki. That's not true. (b2) (b1) ---- Sa: I think you've got it all wrong. Ri: Really? Sa: I know the Nopon and Mechon never crossed paths before... Sa: But that doesn't mean we think any less of you in a fight. Ri: Sharla and friends think Riki crash-pow Mechon OK? Sa: Yes! So stop worrying about it! Sa: We all have our own reasons for fighting, you included. Sa: Whether we've lost something or have people to fight for. Ri: Yay! Riki glad he talk to Sharla! Sa: I hope I helped, at least a little bit. Sa: Just remember, you're one of us! We're all in this together. (b2) ++++ Sa: What's got into you? This isn't the Riki I know. Sa: Normally you're brimming with self-confidence! Ri: R-really? Riki not Riki? Sa: We know the Nopon and Mechon never crossed paths before... Sa: But that doesn't mean we think you're not up to the challenge. Sa: You're one of us, Riki. Ri: Riki sorry, Sharla. Riki feel better now. Sa: Don't mention it, Riki. Sa: We've all got our own reasons for fighting in this war. Sa: Some fight for their family, some for the friends they lost. Ri: Riki happy he talk to Sharla! Riki super happy! Sa: You and me are friends, Riki. Don't ever forget that. Sa: Let's fight to the very end! For all the people of this world! ============================================================================= Ancient Wreckage Me: How strange that such a ship crashed here. Rn: You know what this thing is? Me: How could I not? Me: This is an Alcamoth trading ship. Me: It would have been used to transport Ether Cylinders. Rn: What?! Rn: So you're saying this is a High Entia ship? Me: Does this come as a surprise? (a) I am saying exactly that. (b) (a) ---- Me: I feel my explanation is quite reasonable. Me: Do you find something amiss with it? Rn: Er...amiss... Does that mean wrong? Rn: Nothing's wrong with it exactly. It's just...I mean...you know... Me: Well, that was a cryptic response if ever I heard one. Rn: All right, fine. Rn: We kind of...took the cylinders from the ship. And used them. Me: Hmm. I see. (a1) And what of it, Reyn? (a2) (a1) ++++ Me: Then I must send a request for payment to your colony's leader. Rn: You're gonna charge us?! Me: I should think that obvious, Reyn. Me: This ship was quite expensive. We cannot provide it free of charge. Me: Is it not a crown princess' duty to collect monies owed to Alcamoth? Rn: Oh, so it's like that, is it? Rn: And how do you expect us to pay off our bill? Rn: The colony's flat broke! Me: Oh, hush, Reyn. I am merely jesting with you. Me: Did you honestly think that I would demand payment? Rn: You were joking?! Rn: That's not fair! You're too good at keeping a straight face! Me: The ship appears to have crashed here a very long time ago. Me: I am not sure whose property it is, but they are unlikely to claim it. Me: If you needed the Ether Cylinders, then so be it. Rn: Phew! That's a relief. Rn: You really had me going there for a minute. Me: A little of you and the others has rubbed off on me. Me: I have learnt many new things from you, Reyn. Thank you. Rn: Whoa. You're making me blush! Rn: There's one thing you gotta know about me. I don't need no thanks. Rn: But I don't mind a pat on the back every now and then. (a2) ---- Me: You seem embarrassed to admit to this. Me: Do you feel there is something wrong with the colony's actions? Rn: Nah, not really. Rn: If you're all right with it, then fine by me! Me: Hmph. Did you think I would be so miserly as to object? Me: I am offended. Rn: Wait a second! I didn't say that! Rn: But, you know... This ship must belong to someone. Rn: Whoever flew it here could still be around somewhere, right? Me: Perhaps. We cannot be sure. Me: If they are alive, I would assume they have returned to Alcamoth. Rn: And if they're dead, then they're at one with the Bionis. Rn: The family's gonna want to know what happened. Rn: And that'll cause all kinds of hassle for you, right? Me: Hassle? Me: I fear your concern is misplaced, Reyn. Me: The people of Colony 9 have my gratitude, not my ire. After all... Me: You have saved me numerous times and will continue to do so. Me: At least, I hope that you will. Rn: That's A-OK with me. Rn: We're on the same team. You need any help at all, just say the word. Rn: And you'll do the same for me when I'm in a tight spot, right? Me: You need not even ask, Reyn. Me: The sense of unity in your group means a great deal to me. Me: I would not sacrifice it for anything. (b) ++++ Me: Do you not recognise the design? Me: You saw many similar ships in Alcamoth. Rn: I dunno. We were a bit tied up. Me: True, you were rather preoccupied. Me: In any case, I can't help but wonder... Rn: If there were any survivors? (b1) What the ship was doing here? (b2) (b1) ++++ Me: Yes, precisely. Me: It is possible that one or more people survived the crash. Me: But it would have been a tall order from them to get back to Alcamoth. Rn: It's a long trip, that's for sure. Rn: And if they were High Entia, they'd stick out like a sore thumb. Me: They would be easy prey for monsters. Me: The ship must have crashed here a very long time ago... Me: But even the High Entia of old should not have come here. Me: They should have known better. Rn: That sounds pretty complicated. But I can tell you're upset. Rn: How about we give these guys a break? Whoever they were. Me: You are getting to know me well. I do say some harsh things. Me: And yes, perhaps it is to mask my own distress. Me: I am grateful for your presence, Reyn. Me: Without you here by my side, I fear I would be far more upset. Rn: Oh, great! I was just gonna ask if there was anything I could do. Me: Do not act so surprised, Reyn. Me: You know full well that you've cheered me up. Me: Was that not why you came over and spoke to me in the first place? Me: Teehee. I can see why Shulk holds you in such high regard. Rn: Wait, hang on! Rn: What was that part about why I came over in the first place? Rn: Even if you figure stuff like that out, you're not meant to say it! Rn: I mean...er...Right! Let's get out of here! Me: You know, you still look like a silly brute even when you blush. Me: Perhaps it might be advisable to stop doing so? Me: Now, let's rejoin the others. Thank you for all your help, Reyn. (b2) ---- Me: Indeed. It was before my time, so I cannot know the circumstances. Me: But it seems odd to me that this ship travelled to the lower regions. Me: Why was it necessary to transport all these cylinders here? Rn: There must have been some kind of reason. Me: Yes. But what it was, I do not know. Me: All Ii can be sure of is that this ship is a very old model. Rn: I bet a ship this big got attacked by tons of monsters. Rn: All those cylinders on board and stuff. Me: That is very likely. Me: But the ship would have had defence systems on board. Rn: What if it got hit by one of those Telethia things from up your way? Rn: I bet the defence systems would be no match for it at all. Me: Perhaps. But it does not appear to be damaged. Me: We shouldn't worry over things that are in the past. Me: Come. Let us find the others. *Leaves* Rn: Hey! Hang on a minute! We still don't know anything. Rn: Aaand...she's gone. Well, no use me stewing over it either I guess. ============================================================================= Watching Over Them Dd: Sorry, Reyn. I know it's a bit late to be striking up a conversation. Rn: It's OK. No worries. Something you wanna talk about? Dd: This is difficult to ask, but... Dd: What's your opinion of Fiora and Shulk, as a couple? Rn: Wh-what?! Dd: I'm being quite serious. (a) Speak your mind, Reyn. (b) (a) ++++ Rn: Come on, man! Where did this come from? Rn: I figured I'd be the last person you'd ask! Dd: The three of you have been inseparable since...forever. Dd: Who else would I ask? Rn: OK, when you put it like that... Rn: I wouldn't say they're a couple, but they mean a lot to each other. Dd: That seems like a reasonable assessment. Rn: Yep. But lately I've been thinking... Rn: If you're that close to someone, sometimes you miss the obvious. Dd: What of it? (a1) I see you share my view. (a2) (a1) ---- Rn: I do it. Shulk and Fiora do it. Rn: I know you're clever 'n' all, but even you miss things sometimes. Dd: I can't pick up everything. Dd: I'm busy worrying about how to keep Shulk and Fiora alive. Dd: Erm...was there a point you were making with this? Rn: Well, I dunno how relevant this is, but... Rn: It's easy to filter out people's bad points and only see the good stuff. Dd: Isn't that a good thing? Rn: Well, yeah, it can be. Rn: But you might trust someone too much. Even when they're bad. Rn: What if one of us trusts the wrong person? We'll all be in trouble. Dd: I can see the sense in your words. Dd: Shulk is ever willing to give his life for friend and stranger alike. Rn: Yes! But it's all right, 'cos I've got a plan. Rn: We've all gotta look after Shulk if we wanna get through this. Dd: You couldn't be more right. Dd: If we walk Shulk's back, then we have nothing to worry about. Rn: Just what I was thinking! Rn: We stop Shulk from making a mistake before he does it. Rn: At least, that's my job I guess! Dd: And my job is to prevent the enemy from reaching Shulk. Dd: If we work together, we cannot fail! (a2) ++++ Rn: So we're on the same page for once! Dd: We should not need to see this as a cause for celebration. Dd: I am and will always be your ally. You and I share the same goal. Rn: So! What are you gonna do about them two then? Dd: Absolutely nothing. Rn: What? Why ask me then?! Rn: I figured you were thinking it was time to step in. Dd: I wanted to know your opinion. It doesn't mean we should act on it. Rn: You sure? Rn: If they're not gonna do anything about it themselves... Dd: Knowing whether to intervene or not is something you must learn. Dd: Trust me when I say they are fine. Just continue looking out for them. Rn: All right, I get it. No point arguing I suppose! Rn: I'll leave it to you, Dunban. Dd: Thank you, Reyn. Dd: After talking to you I feel more certain about how to handle them. Dd: And that means a lot. (b) ---- Rn: Speaking my mind normally means I just don't say anything. Dd: Don't be so sure. Dd: Something you say could go a long way to helping those two. Rn: I dunno anymore. I don't know what to tell you. Rn: When we were kids it was different. Dd: When you were kids? (b1) Reyn, it would really help. (b2) (b1) ++++ Dd: I can see what you mean. Dd: I used to read those two like a book. Now, I'm not so confident. Rn: Oh! I thought it was just me! Dd: I can tell they care about each other deeply. Dd: But I can't tell what's going on beneath the surface. Rn: I know what you mean. Rn: I see them together, and I feel like it could all go pear-shaped. Dd: Maybe. I doubt it's that bad. Dd: But I do wish they'd open up a bit more so we'd know. Rn: Those two smile when it rains! Rn: It'd be great if they'd tell us more, but don't count on it. Dd: Then maybe our role is just to give them a friendly push. Dd: What do you think, Reyn? Rn: That's it! You've got it Dunban! Rn: If anything does happen, we'll be there to help them. All right! (b2) ---- Dd: I know that I am asking a lot. Dd: But it would mean a lot to me if you'd give me your thoughts. Rn: You know me. If I could figure those two out, I would say so. Rn: But maybe it isn't about thinking. Rn: Maybe we're not supposed to know. Dd: You're wrong. I know because... you already have the answer. Dd: I can see it in your eyes. Rn: Stupid me! I knew I couldn't hide it from you. Rn: You got me. I know exactly what's going on. Dd: Out with it then. You don't have to hide it from me. Dd: It will put my mind at ease. Rn: Umm... How can I put this? Rn: I really hope they don't get hurt. And..they make a good couple... Rn: That's about it really. Dd: Hmm...I see. In that case it seems our thoughts are in alignment. Rn: They are! Wow! I can't believe it! Rn: Kinda feels like I'm all grown up! Dd: You are a man, Reyn. Dd: If you weren't, no one would depend on you like Shulk does. Dd: Don't worry yourself. Just worry about keeping them safe. Rn: You don't have to tell me twice! I'm already on it. Rn: But you've gotta do it too, Dunban! Rn: It's up to us to look after everyone. You and me! ============================================================================= Fiora's Cooking Rn: Nice! What ya cooking, Fiora? Fi: It's a secret! Fi: Don't be nosy. If I tell you, it'll spoil the surprise. Rn: Yeah, but... Rn: I just wanted to know, so my belly would shut up for a minute. Fi: Oh, did you want some too? I don't know if I made enough. Rn: Of course I want some! (a) Wait, so I can't have any?! (b) (a) ++++ Rn: Your food is the best! Rn: If you're cooking, there's no way I'd turn it down! Fi: You know... Fi: The only ones who ever say that are you and Dunban. Rn: That shulk. No manners! Fi: Whatever I give him, he says it's tasty. Fi: But I honestly don't think he can tell either way. Fi: It's like he has no sense of taste at all. Rn: Yeah, I do wonder about him sometimes. Rn: But that's just how he is. Rn: I wouldn't think too hard about it. He eats it, so he must like it. Rn: You keep on cooking for him. Fi: Don't you worry! I'm going to! Rn: So...uh...when can we eat? (a1) Yeah, you might as well. (a2) (a1) ++++ Fi: Haha! Fi: And there's me thinking you cared about something other than food. Rn: Oh...uh.... Did you say something? Was it about food? Rn: Hey, don't mind if I do! Om nom nom... Fi: Hands off, Reyn! I haven't finished cooking it yet! Rn: But I'm so hungry! Rn: You wouldn't leave a grown man starving now, would ya? Fi: I will if you don't keep your grubby paws away until it's ready! Fi: Right, that's it! Fi: You've had enough already, Reyn. You're not getting any more today! Rn: Wh-what? But Fiora...! I told you, I'm starving here! Fi: *sigh* Fi: I guess I can't stop you being you. Fi: OK, you can have some more. But only a little. Rn: Yes! You're the best, Fiora! Shulk's a lucky man. Fi: That's enough out of you, mister. Go and tell Shulk dinner's ready. (a2) ---- Fi: I might as well? What's that supposed to mean?! Rn: OK, look at it this way. Rn: Maybe you're the reason Shulk has funny ideas about food. Fi: Me? What did I do?! Rn: Well, you know. If you're eating good food all the time... Rn: You'd just think that's normal, right? Fi: So it is my fault... Rn: Don't feel bad, Fiora! Rn: It just means you have to keep cooking for him. Rn: I bet he thinks everyone else's cooking tastes horrible. Fi: Reyn, would you shut up? Fi: How long do you expect me to keep making Shulk's food for him?! Rn: You've only got yourself to blame. Rn: It wouldn't have happened if your grub wasn't so tasty! (b) ---- Fi: Why does everyone keep expecting me to cook for them? Rn: Hey! You know I can't cook. Fi: Oh, true. You are a bit useless in the kitchen. Rn: And your grub's not bad at all. So let me have some already! Fi: Hang on, Reyn. Fi: You think I'll agree to feed you just because of that? Fi: Because of some vaguely positive comment about my cooking skills? Rn: Yes! I mean, no! I mean... (b1) OK, I give up. (b2) (b1) ++++ Rn: Fiora, pleeeeeaaaaase! I think...I'm...dying...! Fi: I've never know anyone to die from missing one meal. Fi: A big guy like you? With that gut, you'd last three days with no food! Rn: Oi! I'll have you know this is all muscle! Fi: Anyway, you could at least help out a bit. Fi: The only reason you come round is to eat. I should charge you! Rn: I help! I keep all the bad guys away! Rn: That's gotta be worth at least a meal or two. Fi: I don't know why I bother. Same old Reyn. Fi: Well, it's nearly ready. I guess you'd better call Shulk in. Fi: You can set the table too. Fi: If you're not too busy fending off bad guys, that is. Rn: Sounds great! Rn: As long as I get to eat, I'll set every table in the colony! (b2) ---- Rn: If you're gonna be like that, I'm off. See ya later! Fi: W-wait, Reyn! Where are you going? Fi: I was only joking... Rn: You were joking?! You know I hate it when people tease me. Fi: I have to get back at you somehow! Fi: You're always barging in here before dinner's ready. Fi: You even start eating it straight from the pan! Rn: I can't help it! You need to stop making such tasty grub! Fi: Yes, Master Reyn, sir! Whatever you say! Fi: Now, go and put this cloth on the table and wait like a good boy. Fi: Oh, and go and tell Shulk it's nearly ready. Rn: OK, I get the picture. ============================================================================= Glowing in the Night Ri: Dundun! Riki can see hanging strings! Dd: They are quite remarkable. It's an amazing sight. Ri: Riki know! Know what strings are! Dd: You do? Well, what are they? Ri: Riki not tell Dundun for free! (a) Riki tell Dundun. (b) (a) ---- Ri: Qui pro qui! Dd: That's 'quid pro quo', Riki. And where did you learn that? Ri: Reyn told Riki! Dd: Did he now? I suggest thinking twice before listening to him, Riki. Dd: So then, what can I do for you? Ri: Dundun tell Riki biig secret! (a1) Dundun help Riki pay off debt! (a2) (a1) ++++ Ri: Riki not know aaanything about Dundun. Please tell Riki! Dd: Why of course. I'd be happy to. But I'm really not that interesting. Ri: That not matter! Ri: Tell Riki...what food Dundun not like! Dd: Let me see... Something I dislike. Dd: Sweet Wasabi! Dd: The sweetness evokes tears and induces terrible bowel movements. Ri: Haha! Dundun funny! Ri: Sweet Wasabi make Dundun yuck! Dundun like Riki's littlepon. Dd: I see. You find this funny, do you? Dd: Well, back to the point at hand. Dd: What do you know about these 'strings'? Ri: They caused by ether power! Riki's lesson over! Dd: I could have told you that, Riki. You tricked me. Ri: Riki want to know about Dundun, so Riki and Dundun be friends! Dd: Well, if you put it so nicely, how can I refuse? (a2) ---- Ri: So Riki and Dundun make deal? Dd: Never. Ri: Riki not happy. Sulky sulk. Dd: You see, Riki, I am not Melia. Cuteness alone won't win me over. Dd: You'll just have to try harder. Ri: Dundun! Dd: I'm not making any kind of deal with you. Dd: If you run away, I'll be the one left working off your debt! Dd: And I don't think the Heropon moniker would suit me very well. Ri: Nonono! That no needed. Ri: Riki see Dunban [sic] in dream. Dunban [sic] working at Pollen Works! Ri: That suit you great! Dd: We must prevent this from happening at all costs. Ri: Oooh! (b) ++++ Ri: The power of ether! Dd: I see. And what else? Ri: Riki not know anything else. Dd: Even I know more than that, Riki. Dd: Do they even have schools where you're from? Ri: (Dundun is my hero! He know way more than Riki.) Dd: Riki, are you all right? You seem to be taken aback. Ri: Riki surrenders! (b1) String is fishing line! (b2) (b1) ++++ Dd: Riki, my friend... Dd: It is not the end of the world if you don't know something. Ri: Good! Ri: Because Riki know nothing about ether. Ri: Regret not listening at school. Dd: There is much I do not know as well, Riki. Dd: Bionis is a rich and diverse place. Even I have much to learn. Ri: But why strings only appear at night? Ri: Why Bionis titan make them that way? Dd: Riki, you are the funniest Nopon I know, And do you know what? Dd: I believe the Bionis itself may have forgotten the reason. Ri: Riki love travelling with Dundun. Dundun the best partner ever! Dd: Why thank you, Riki. Dd: I enjoy visiting the mysterious wonders of Bionis as much as you. Ri: Riki never want to leave friends! (b2) ---- Dd: Fishing line, you say? That's quite the conclusion to draw, Riki. Ri: OK... Riki change his mind. Now it is a spider web! Ri: A great big spider go around spinning lots of webs. Dd: I cannot tell if you're joking or you actually believe this nonsense. Ri: Riki upset with Dundun! Why Dundun so angry with Riki? Dd: I am not angry with you, Riki. Dd: If you don't know the answer, just tell the truth. Ri: Sorry Dundun. Riki embarrassed at not knowing. Dd: We should never be embarrassed by what we do not know. Ri: Dundun right! Riki listen now. Please Dundun, teach Riki more! Dd: I'd be happy to. Dd: There is much we can learn from each other on our journey. ============================================================================= A Scene Revisited Fi: Reyn, look! What a sight. Rn: It's a sight all right. Fi: What's wrong, Reyn? It's not like you to look so serious. Rn: Hey! I can be serious if I want to! Fi: Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean it like that. What's on your mind? Rn: The first time I came here. (a) Tomorrow's dinner. What else?! (b) (a) ++++ Rn: Before I came here with Shulk, I'd never seen this place. Fi: Was there something special about that day? Fi: You've never told me about it. Rn: You could say that. Rn: It's the day we set out from Colony 9. Rn: Well, it might not have been the exact day. I don't remember. Fi: Oh, I see. Fi: Was that just after I was taken? I messed up pretty badly that day. Rn: Why would you say that? Rn: Man, now you're the one who's not acting like yourself. Fi: I suppose... Fi: But if I hadn't tried to be a hero, you could have stayed in Colony 9. Rn: No one thinks that, Fiora. (a1) You can say that again. (a2) (a1) ++++ Rn: Don't beat yourself up about it! Fi: But, Reyn... I... Rn: I don't regret leaving the colony behind. Rn: And I don't blame you for all this stuff that's happened. Fi: That makes me feel better. Thanks, Reyn. Rn: Even if you hadn't got kidnapped that day, we still would have left. Rn: It feels like we were destined or something. Fi: You think the Monado would have led you on this journey anyway? Rn: Yeah. Something like that. Rn: Or maybe you'd have just kept browbeating us until we did it. Fi: Much as I hate to admit it, I think you've hit the nail on the head! Fi: I can't imagine just sitting there with the colony in ruins. Fi: I'd have wanted to go out and get revenge on the Mechon. Rn: I knew it! Rn: So don't worry, OK? Rn: Soon this'll be over and we can all go back to the colony for good. Fi: That sounds great! (a2) ---- Rn: I reckon we'd still be in Colony 9 if you hadn't done that. Fi: You mean if I hadn't got myself kidnapped? Maybe... Rn: Hey! Wait! Hang on! Rn: You're making it sound all depressing! Rn: That's not what I meant at all! Fi: What? Rn: Think about it, Fiora. Rn: If we'd just sat around in Colony 9 for the rest of our lives... Rn: We'd never have found a way to beat the Mechon! Fi: Oh, I guess that's true... Rn: So cheer up! Rn: Me and Shulk were always gonna get off our bums and leave. Rn: I learnt new things, met new people... It's been great! Rn: I wouldn't trade it for anything. Fi: Really? Thanks, Reyn. Thanks for making me feel better. Rn: Anytime! And besides... Rn: Soon this'll be over and we can all go back to the colony for good. Fi: I can't wait! (b) ---- Rn: I look out across this beautiful vista and I can't help but think... Rn: What are we gonna eat tonight? Fi: What?! Fi: How are the two in any way connected?! Rn: I'm just worried about it, OK?! Rn: You know it's my turn to make dinner! Rn: And you always get angry when I cook! Fi: And you know why, too! Fi: Because you just cook meat! Rn: So? Meat's good! Rn: It's full of...er...meat! Rn: And don't you think my cooking's improved since I left the colony? Fi: Well, I don't remember you cooking a single meal at the colony, so... Rn: Nope. Had never touched a frying pan in my life. Rn: But I'm a new Reyn these days! And I've decided that tonight... Rn: I'm gonna make you my extra special speciality! Fi: Ooh, what is it? Rn: Sautéed beast-on-the-bone! (b1) Gourmet cabbage parcels! (b2) (b1) ---- Rn: So I get a big ol' joint of meat. Rn: Then I marinade it for 24 hours and roast over an open fire. Rn: A real man's dinner! Fi: If that's all you can come up with, I'm never eating your food again! Fi: And as if I'm waiting another 24 hours for tonight's dinner! Rn: Haha, gotcha! Rn: Don't worry, Fiora. I was only joking. Fi: Yeah, laugh it up! It's all one big joke to you! Fi: The rest of us are sick of you serving up big burnt slabs of meat! Rn: All right, fine! Why don't you teach me how to cook more stuff? Fi: Now, Reyn... I don't mind teaching you, but are you going to listen? Fi: You remember what happened last time, don't you? Fi: You 'borrowed' the Monado and tried to use it to cut vegetables. Rn: Don't you worry, Fiora! Rn: When we get back to the colony, I'll be the best student ever! Fi: You better not let me down. Fi: I can just see you injuring yourself using a real knife! Rn: R-right! Rn: Man, this cooking stuff sounds dangerous. Rn: I hope you're gonna be gentle with me, Fiora! (b2) ++++ Rn: I read the recipe in some book. Rn: It looked like something even I could manage! Fi: Sounds like you're learning. I can't wait! Fi: Oh, but I remember Sharla saying she didn't like cabbage parcels... Rn: Oh, all right then. I won't cook after all. Fi: Wait a minute! Fi: You were supposed to be making it for me, not Sharla! Rn: Yeah, I did. But you know, majority rules. Rn: I've gotta cater to all tastes. Meat it is! Fi: How is that catering to all tastes?! Fi: I already told you I don't want meat! Fi: Right, how about an omelette? Fi: They're easy to make and Sharla's a big fan. Rn: Hey, no one was talking about Sharla. Why'd ya bring her up? Rn: But...I guess if you want eggs, I can't really mess that up. Fi: Hooray for Reyn! The best chef on all Bionis! Rn: You bet! Before you know it, I'll be cooking up a storm! ============================================================================= The Legend of the Spider Sk: Look, Reyn! Sk: This geological formation... It's incredible! Rn: It sure is. This breeze ain't bad either. Sk: Reyn, are you OK? Sk: You don't normally want to talk about geology and the weather. Rn: Uh... OK, yeah, I'm a bit on edge. Rn: Just tell it to me straight, Shulk. Rn: Is it me or are there a ton of spiders around here? Sk: Yes, there are quite a few. Sk: Oh yeah! Now I remember! Sk: You're scared of spiders! (a) You love spiders! (b) (a) ++++ Sk: Reyn, are you OK? You don't look so good. Rn: Sorry, Shulk. Mind if we take a break for a bit? Sk: That's not a problem at all. Sk: Hmm. I'm just trying to think when your phobia started. Sk: If I remember right, it was that time when... Rn: Come on, man, don't remind me! Sk: I played a prank on you! (a1) Fiora played a prank on you! (a2) (a1) ++++ Sk: I'm sorry, Reyn. I shouldn't have stuck that spider in your shoe. Rn: Too right you shouldn't! Rn: When I went to put my shoe on I nearly jumped out of my skin! Rn: You should be glad it didn't make me scared of shoes! Sk: Don't make me feel bad! I said I was sorry. Rn: Yeah, I know. We were just kids back then, anyway. Rn: Boys will be boys and all that. Sk: That reminds me. Sk: Do you remember why I put that spider in your shoe? Rn: Umm... Not really. Sk: You hid a caterpillar in my sock drawer! Did you forget? Rn: Haha! Oh yeah... Sorry, man. Rn: Hey, Shulk, don't you have a phobia? Rn: There's something you're afraid of, but I can't remember what. Sk: It's caterpillars, Reyn. (a2) ---- Sk: She stuck a spider in your food. It was hilarious! Rn: Oh yeah, that was gross! How could she do that?! * Rn: Hey, wait a minute! That never happened! * Rn: It was your fault! * Sk: Wh-what? Are you sure? Rn: Don't tell me you've forgotten. Rn: You stuck a spider in my shoe when we were kids. Sk: Oh... Uh... Sorry about that. Are you sure it was me? Rn: Yes! And for the record, I hated it! * Rn: How could you forget that? * Rn: It's your fault I have this horrible fear of spiders! * Sk: Hey, no need to make such a big deal out of it! Sk: I don't even remember why I did it. Rn: Are you kidding me?! Rn: You did it because... Er... OK, I guess I don't remember either. Sk: On the plus side... Sk: If we both forgot, it can't have been much of a reason! Rn: (Yes! He's totally forgotten about the prank I played on him.) Rn: (And I can't say I'm gonna complain!) (b) ---- Sk: *laughing* All these strange and exciting spiders around... Sk: No wonder you look nervous! Sk: I bet you can barely contain your excitement! Rn: You must be kidding! * Rn: I'm starting to feel sick just looking at the ugly things! * Sk: Haha, gotcha! I was only joking, Reyn. Sk: Don't be so uptight! It's just a few creepy crawlies. Rn: For the record, it's 'cos of you that I have a phobia of spiders. * Rn: I hope you haven't forgot about what you did when we were kids. * Sk: I remember. Relax. SK: You know how sorry I was. Rn: You shouldn't have done it in the first place, man! * Rn: Why the heck did you have to go and stick a spider in my shoe?! * Sk: You were bugging me. (b1) It needed a good home. (b2) (b1) ++++ Sk: You put a caterpillar in my drawer, remember? Rn: Umm... Really? I sorta remember. I might have, but who knows? Sk: See! You're the bad guy here. Why did you do it, Reyn? * Rn: I dunno. Rn: Mmm... No, can't remember. Sk: Well, that's the end of that. Rn: Both of us have awful memories. Rn: Guess we're two peas from the same pod! (b2) ---- Sk: If I recall, your shoe looked just the right size for the spider. Rn: Oi! Only my feet get to live in my shoes! No bugs allowed! * Rn: I've had enough of this. I'm outta here, Shulk. * Sk: You want to get moving already? Rn: Right! The spiders can stay away or suffer the consequences! * Rn: You better watch your back too, Shulk! You'll regret that prank! * Sk: At least you're back to your old self again! Rn: Hey, that's not the point! Rn: Oh, forget it. You're always one step ahead of me anyway. ============================================================================= What's On Reyn's Mind Sa: Can I tell you something? Sa: When I heard you call Juju 'kid', it made me smile. Rn: It did? I thought you were gonna shout at me or something! Sa: No. Actually, when you got angry at Juju, it reminded me of Gadolt. Sa: That's why it made me smile. Rn: Ah, so it's about Gadolt. Rn: Hey, between me and Gadolt, who would win in a fight? Sa: Gadolt, of course! (a) You, by a whisker. (b) (a) ---- Rn: Oh, great! That's really nice of you, Sharla. Sa: He's the best shot on Bionis! Sa: He'd snipe you before you had time to tie your shoelace. Rn: Come on, Sharla! Rn: In a straight up fight, no one can beat me! Sa: True. Sa: A punch from you would send anyone to the A&E for a week! Sa: Anyway, who's going to start a fight with the mighty Reyn? Rn: Umm...there is someone, kinda... Rn: Someone I've never won a fight against... Sa: You don't mean Shulk? (a1) Hehehe, I know! (a2) (a1) ---- Rn: Umm...not Shulk. Rn: Shulk would never take me on. Sa: You're probably right. He's too puny to beat you. Rn: There was this one time, though. We got into a scuffle. Rn: He ain't got my size or build, but his jab is quick and powerful. Sa: I see. Sounds like a good tactic for Shulk. Sa: A clever fighter always uses his head to defeat an opponent. Rn: Hey! I can use my head in a fight! Just not always my brain... Sa: You might not be the quickest thinker, but you act decisively. Rn: Right? Rn: I'm no sharp-shooter, like Gadolt, but I've got my own style. Rn: You can look to me when you're in a jam, Sharla. I'll be there. Sa: I know you will. I won't forget. (a2) ++++ Sa: A girl beat you up! Rn: All right, I admit it. It's Fiora. I don't stand a chance against her. Rn: It's been years of humiliation. Rn: I'd start winning, and she'd cry and run off to Dunban! Sa: I can guess how that turned out! Sa: I used to give Gadolt what for too, actually. He always gave in. Rn: Are all guys that soft on girls? Sa: All you need to know is this. Sa: Girls always win, Reyn. Always. Sa: But it's easier when the guy's as kind as you or Gadolt. Rn: Me? Kind? I mean...thanks! Rn: That's, un...the first time anyone's called me that. You sure? Sa: Reyn, I'm complimenting you here! Shut up and be grateful! Rn: G-got it. Umm... Rn: This feels like a fight with Fiora. Let's quit while we're ahead. Sa: I'll take that as a good sign, Reyn. Rn: You better! 'Cos we'll probably have a few more like this. (b) ++++ Rn: I knew it! Me all the way, baby! Sa: Yeah, that thick head of yours could withstand anything! Rn: Thick head...? Oi! Sa: What? Did I say something wrong? Rn: ... Sa: I was joking, Reyn! Don't be so serious all the time. Rn: But you said it's only 'cos of my thick head. Sa: That's one reason! I didn't say it was the only reason! Rn: Then what else have I got? Sa: You have...dignified qualities. (b1) Er...give me a second. (b1) ++++ Rn: Dignified qualities? What do you mean by that? Rn: Come on, Sharla. Tell it to me straight. Sa: Umm...how can I put this? You're...like a father figure. Rn: A father figure? Sa: Yeah. And I thought maybe... you'd be Juju's father one day. Rn: (Hang on. If I'm Juju's dad, that'd make Sharla my daughter!) Rn: (And that ain't right at all!) Sa: Wait, you didn't believe me, did you? Gotcha! Rn: I... What... No, course not! Haha... Umm...nice one! Sa: You make me laugh, Reyn. Sa: You're so red in the face, I could swear you and Gadolt are related. Rn: Really? I guess that almost sounds like a compliment. Sa: I like chatting with you, Reyn. And...I'm glad I met you as well. Rn: Sure. Me too, Sharla. (b2) ---- Sa: I know this one... Let me think. There's that...but no. Hang on... Rn: OK, very funny. I get it. Sa: Sorry, Reyn! Sa: Why is it you can never think of these things when you need to? Rn: Sharla? Are you so old you're losing your memory?! Sa: Huh? What was that? You say something? Rn: Oh, don't worry. It's nothing. Sa: I'll tell you what... If it comes back to me, I'll let you know. Rn: But I wanna know now! Sa: Don't be such a baby, Reyn! ============================================================================= Heir to the Monado Dd: ... Rn: Something up, Dunban? Dd: Losing your home... Dd: It is a painful experience, and not lightly forgotten. Rn: The people of Colony 6 have had a rough time of it. Dd: Exactly. Dd: And we could have lost our homes to the Mechon just as easily. Rn: If it wasn't for you. (a) If it wasn't for Shulk. (b) (a) ---- Dd: Me? I was as useful as a Volff cub. My ego needs no massaging. Rn: That ain't what I meant! Rn: We look up to you, Dunban. You're a bona fide hero. Rn: Just think of all that stuff you did at the Battle of Sword Valley! Dd: Hmph. Some hero. But I appreciate the sentiment. Dd: I think you're getting things a bit mixed up, though. Dd: I didn't save Colony 9 when the Mechon attacked. Shulk did. Rn: Yep, he sure did. Rn: I'll never forget that day as long as I live. Rn: Shulk wielding the Monado. Sent shivers down my spine. Dd: Yeah, he took to the cursed sword like flies to a Brog. Rn: Made me wish I could use it. (a1) Ain't fair! I wanna use it too! (a2) (a1) ++++ Dd: The feel of the Monado is unlike any other sword. Dd: I know that more than anyone. Dd: It is the true sword of a hero. Rn: No, that's not what I meant. Rn: I think about your arm, and about everything Shulk's been through. Rn: If I could stand in Shulk's place right now, I would, in a second. Dd: Such loyalty is to be admired. Rn: I don't get it. Dd: I mean, Reyn, that your closeness to Shulk is a good thing. Dd: Never let that friendship die. Rn: Why so serous all of a sudden? Rn: You're not wrong though. Rn: Me and Shulk are good friends. Best friends. Dd: Still, there's no point in thinking about what ifs. Dd: The sword chooses its wielder. Dd: Maybe it was even lying in wait for him to come along. Dd: The time has passed for anyone but him to wield that sword. Rn: Yeah, I guess you're right. Dd: If you ask me, the current situation isn't too bad. Dd: And Shulk knows all too well how much you care about him. Dd: Although he might not say it out loud. Rn: I guess. Rn: Well, if Shulk is the sword, I'll just have to be his shield! Dd: Now you're thinking along the right lines. Dd: It's all about how we support him. (a2) ---- Dd: Reyn, do you not realise what happens to that sword's wielder? Rn: No... What do you mean? Dd: Anyone who takes up that sword is likely to end up like me. Dd: I only have one usable arm now. Dd: Are you ready to deal with such devastating consequences? Rn: Well... I dunno... Dd: I understand more than most. I, too, am envious of Shulk. Dd: I would be lying if I told you otherwise. Rn: Dunban... I... Dd: The Monado can only be used by Shulk. Dd: But there are things that only we are able to do. Rn: Really? What can I do that no one else can? Dd: Think of Shulk as the sword and yourself as the shield. Dd: And I'm...as, got it! I can be Shulk's trusty steed! Rn: You're right. What was I thinking? Rn: But I'm still happy I told you that. Dd: A problem shared is a problem halved. Rn: I knew I could talk to you, Dunban. Thanks! (b) ++++ Dd: Indeed. Dd: Shulk taking the Monado in hand was a decisive moment. Dd: If he hadn't done that, we would probably have lost everything. Rn: It's a miracle that the Monado was in the colony at all. Dd: If it hadn't been, our homes would no doubt be piles of rubble now. Dd: Just like Colony 6. Rn: When I think of those walking piles of scrap ruining our homes... * Rn: Gah. It makes my blood boil! * Dd: I find it hard to imagine living here in such danger, as Sharla did. Rn: Revenge kept her going. (b1) Hope kept her going. (b2) (b1) ---- Dd: A natural reaction to such events. But can that be her only reason? Rn: Beats me. I just know that I'd be full of rage if it'd been Colony 9. Dd: I suspect there's more to it. Dd: You see, Sharla had orders to protect Juju and the others. Dd: And there was that gentleman. Rn: You mean Gadolt, yeah. Dd: She's been waiting for him to return ever since we set out. Dd: That's what has kept her going. Not revenge. Rn: I guess we really ain't alike, Sharla and me. Dd: Hmph. Cut yourself some slack. Dd: I think the two of you are quite well suited to each other. Rn: Me and Sharla? What are you talking about?! Rn: Anyway, why don't you help out with Colony 6's reconstruction? Dd: Not a bad idea. They could do with another helping hand. (b2) ++++ Dd: Hope? That is a rare thing amongst us Homs of late. Rn: Sharla has looked after that camp waiting for Gadolt to return. Rn: That's what kept her going. Rn: The hope of rebuilding the colony together with him. Dd: You may be right. Sounds likes you know a lot about Sharla. Rn: She's strong, that woman. Stronger than I'll ever be. Dd: She's more fragile than she looks. Dd: It doesn't take much to break her will. Dd: But you could be the one to pick her back up again. Rn: What? Me? Now you're just talking crazy, Dunban! Dd: I just have a feeling about you. Dd: Just keep that thought in mind! Rn: Umm...changing the subject... Rn: Why don't you help out with Colony 6's reconstruction? Rn: They could do with a helping hand from a genuine hero! Dd: When you put it that way, how can I refuse? Dd: Let's get to it, Reyn! ============================================================================= Geography Lesson Sk: You'll never see a sight like this from Colony 9. Right, Dunban? Dd: Right. Sk: I don't think I'd ever get tired of looking out at this landscape. Sk: I wonder when these rock formations date from? Dd: Yeah. Sk: You don't sound very interested. Dd: Sorry, what was that? (a) Of course I'm interested. (b) (a) ---- Sk: Yeah, I guess not then. Dd: Did you say something? Dd: I... I apologise, Shulk. My mind was elsewhere. Sk: I guess if you're not into a topic, you're really not into it! Dd: Me? Am I really like that? Sk: Yes, you are. Sk: Here, let me test you. What part of the Bionis are we on? Dd: The thigh of course. (a1) The lower leg of course. (a1) (a1) ++++ Dd: Who do you think you are talking to, Shulk? Dd: That much I do know. It's obvious. Sk: I didn't mean to offend you. I could have put that better... Dd: I'll get over it. Dd: These things interest you a lot, don't they? They always have. Dd: Geography, geology... That kind of thing. Sk: Yeah. Sk: It's just...the Bionis is so big! Sk: There are all these places and I've not even seen half of them. Sk: Can you imagine exploring the Bionis' back, for example? Sk: No one's ever been there. It's completely uncharted! Sk: And I bet the view is better than anywhere else on Bionis! Dd: I feel your enthusiasm, Shulk. Your passion is a great thing. Dd: I support you implicitly in all your endeavours. Sk: You can support me out loud as well, you know. I won't mind! (a2) ---- Dd: Who do you think you are talking to, Shulk? Dd: That much I do know. It's obvious. Sk: Obvious? You're not even close, Dunban! Sk: This is the thigh! Dd: It... It is? Sk: Yes! Don't you remember? I'm the one who told you that! Dd: Then I owe you an apology. Sk: I still have my old textbook, 'Bionis Geography for Beginners'. Sk: You should read it. From page one! Dd: Y-yes, sir! Dd: But I doubt I'll ever be as knowledgeable as you, Shulk... (b) ++++ Dd: I listened to every word. Sk: you did? It looked like you were just staring into space. Dd: It was about those rock formations and how they looked in the past. Sk: Uh, something like that. Sk: I guess when I talk about geeky stuff, you're gonna switch off. Dd: Me? Switch off? I didn't realise I did that. Sk: It's not just geeky stuff. It's anything that doesn't interest you. Sk: Like the latest fads in the colony. I could as you... Sk: What's the latest 'superfood' everyone's talking about? Sk: And you'd say... Dd: No idea. Not a clue. (b1) Oh! I know! (b2) (b1) ---- Sk: See! You don't really care. Dd: And why do I have to care? Sk: What if Fiora was interested? Would you care then? Dd: Well... If Fiora liked something, I suppose I would pay attention. Sk: Now I think of it, I don't actually know what it is either. Sk: I heard someone mention it once, but I've forgotten by now. Dd: What's that sound? Is it the pot calling the kettle black? Sk: All right, how about this. Sk: Instead of me trying to make you care about geography... Sk: We could both try and learn about the latest trends instead! Sk: It could be fun! Dd: I cannot argue with that. You have a deal. (b2) ++++ Dd: Chewy Radishes! They're the latest healthy ingredient. Dd: I saw a line of people queuing up to buy them the other day. Dd: It was as long as the Bionis' leg. Sk: Wow! You really are in the know. Dd: Wait, does that mean that the all-knowing Shulk didn't know? Sk: I'm afraid so. I've barely even heard of a Chewy Radish. Dd: You really had no idea. And you thought I was out of the loop. Sk: I was kind of betting on you not knowing. You surprised me. Dd: Let this be a lesson to you. Studying is all well and good... Dd: But there are some things you can't learn from books. Dd: Or from conducting ether research and building weapons. Sk: You're right. I'll try to bear that in mind from now on! ============================================================================= Revisiting the Past Dd: I have been to this place before. Only once, however. Sa: Really? When was that? Dd: I remember it well. Dd: When Fiora and I were much younger, we came here together. Sa: All the way from Colony 9? That's no small distance. Dd: I was so very afraid as we made our way through Tephra Cave. Dd: I can barely even remember the way now. Dd: At the time I was so busy making sure Fiora was OK. Sa: Was it just a day out? (a) Did something bad happen? (b) (a) ---- Dd: Are you serious? Do you think I'd bring her here for fun? Sa: I'm sorry. It was silly of me to say that. Dd: It was...about 12 years ago, I believe. Dd: Colony 9 was attacked by the Mechon. This is where we fled to. Sa: I was only little at the time as well, but I remember that day. Dd: I thought you might. Dd: All I kept thinking was, 'Don't let them hurt Fiora.' Dd: We ran as fast as our legs would carry us, trying not to look back. Dd: I didn't even know how far they'd chased us. And then here we were. Sa: I know the feeling. (a1) How could you be so stupid?! (a2) (a1) ++++ Sa: When the Mechon attacked Colony 6, Juju was my only concern. Sa: I couldn't think about anything else. Dd: Of course. You must feel the same about Juju as I do about Fiora. Sa: Yeah. And in a way, he's the reason I became a medic. Sa: I had to keep him safe, no matter what. Dd: I see. Sa: How about you, Dunban? Sa: Did you become a soldier because you wanted to protect Fiora? Dd: Good question. I'm not really sure, but I don't think so. Dd: I think I just signed up because I really hated the Mechon. Sa: Come on, that can't be the only reason. Sa: I'm talking to the Hero of the Homs, here! Sa: Wasn't there something more...heroic behind it? Dd: Hmm... I suppose it doesn't make for a very good story. Dd: Maybe I'll tell it your way in future. (a2) ---- Sa: Why didn't you just go into the shelter? Sa: Leaving the colony was very irresponsible of you. Dd: Well, if you put it like that, there's not much I can say. Sa: Sorry, Dunban. That was a bit harsh of me. Sa: I know you didn't come here out of choice. Dd: Of course I didn't. Dd: The two of us just didn't make it to the shelter in time. Dd: What other option did we have but to run? Sa: You're right. Sa: When the same happened to us... Sa: I ran around Colony 6 looking for Juju like a headless Bunniv. Dd: I see. Then you must know how I felt. Dd: You're the eldest sibling as well, aren't you? Sa: Yeah, just like you. Sa: That's probably why we get along so well! (b) ++++ Sa: I mean...if you don't mind telling me, that is. Dd: It was...about 12 years ago, I believe. Dd: Colony 9 was attacked by the Mechon. This is where we fled to. Sa: Oh, I see. That sounds horrible. Sa: I was only little at the time as well, but I remember that day. Dd: Mechon formed a barrier around our house. I feared the worst. Sa: That's when you made a run for it? Dd: Yes. But on our way to the shelter, Fiora let go of my hand. Dd: She started running back to get something she'd forgotten. Sa: She should have just left it. (b1) Was it important to her? (b2) (b1) ---- Sa: Didn't she realise how dangerous it was to go back? * Dd: I agree with you. Dd: But it was a keepsake that reminded her of our mother. Dd: To leave without it was too much for Fiora to bear. Sa: I see. She must have cherished it dearly. Dd: We barely managed to escape with our lives. Dd: A week passed before we returned to Colony 9. Sa: I'm just happy you made it out. And made it back alive. Dd: The colonel gave me a bit of an earful when we got back. Dd: He wasn't happy with me to say the least. Sa: Haha! Well, he'd probably just spent a week worrying about you. Sa: There are worse things. Dd: Yeah. And when I look back on it now, it's actually quite funny. Dd: Just like any rant from Vangarre! (b2) ++++ Sa: So you braved the onslaught and went all the way back?! Dd: Yes, that we did. Dd: It was a keepsake that reminded her of our mother. Dd: Losing it would have devastated her. Sa: But why didn't you send Fiora to the shelter first? Sa: You could have gone and got it on your own. Dd: There was no time. Dd: And... Sa: And what? Dd: She burst into tears. Dd: She said she didn't want me to leave her on her own. Dd: So with Fiora crying on my back, we braved it all for that keepsake. Sa: Wow. That's quite a story. Sa: Sounds like you were as much a hero then as you are today. Dd: You think so? Well, thank you, Sharla. ============================================================================= What Visions May Bring Sa: Hey, Shulk... What's it like being able to see the future? Sk: It's kinda hard to explain. Sk: If I had to describe it, it's like I'm being made to watch a dream. Sa: A dream, huh? That's one strange power. Sk: Tell me, Sharla... What do you think of my power? Sa: I wish I had it. (a) I still don't quite believe it. (b) (a) ++++ Sa: If I had your power, maybe I could have saved Colony 6. Sk: I can see why that would mean a lot to you. Sk: You might have even been able to save Gadolt. Sa: Yeah. But honestly, the more I think about it... Sa: The more I realise none of this could have been helped. Sa: And your power kept Juju safe. I'll always be grateful for that. Sk: Yeah, that was a close one. I'm glad we got to him in time. Sk: Otherwise there could have been a future where Juju didn't make it. Sa: Thank goodness for your visions. Sa: If you have a vision, it means... Sa: There's nothing to fear! (a1) You can save someone's life! (a2) (a1) ---- Sk: But it doesn't work like that. Some things I can't see. Sk: Even if I do see someone dying, I might not be able to stop it. Sk: I couldn't stop what happened to Fiora. Sa: No, I suppose not. Sa: I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring up bad memories. Sk: I could see it, just as it was about to happen. Sk: But I was still powerless to save her. Sa: I guess I misunderstood. Sk: What do you mean? Sa: The ability to have those visions... Sa: It's not without it's [sic] consequences. Sa: It means you can help people, but it's a heavy burden as well. Sk: Yeah. Sk: Thank you, Sharla. I feel better from talking to you. Sa: I can't see the future. Sa: But I'm good at solving problems I can see. Sa: Talk to me about anything, anytime! (a2) ++++ Sa: I feel like a stronger person when I'm around you. Sk: That's kind of you to say. Thank you, Sharla. Sk: But... Sa: What is it? Sk: I can't see everything. Sometimes the visions are quite hazy. Sk: And even when I've seen the future, I can't always change it. Sa: Are you talking about... what happened to Fiora? Sk: Yeah. Sk: I'm also worried about what's going to happen to Bionis. Sk: I've hardly been able to see anything. Sk: If only my power wasn't so limited... Sa: Don't be so hard on yourself! Sa: You've saved us how many times now? Sk: Yeah, I guess I have! Thanks, Sharla! Sk: But I still wish I could master my power a bit better. Sa: If there's anything I can do to help, just let me know! Sa: I'll support you all the way! (b) ---- Sk: What?! All this time, and you still don't believe me?! * Sa: No! That's not what I meant at all. Sk: What did you mean then? Sa: It's just...such an unbelievable thing. Sa: Even as I think about it now, I can't fathom how you can do it. Sk: Oh, I see what you're saying now. Sk: Actually, I kind of feel the same way. Sk: Maybe I'll never understand it. Sk: Sharla, if you could have one vision of the future... Sk: What would you want to see? Sa: Juju getting married. (b1) How Colony 6 turns out. (b2) (b1) ---- Sk: That's what you want to see?! Sa: Hey! It's my vision and it can be anything I want! Sa: Don't you have any brothers or sisters you want to know about? Sk: No, I'm an only child. Sa: Then you don't know how much I worry about little Juju. Sa: If Juju ends up with the wrong girl, I'll be devastated! Sk: Oh, I didn't think of that. Sk: I'm sorry. That sounds important. Sa: I'm very protective of him. Sa: Not long after we were born, we lost both our parents. Sa: I became like a mother to him. Sk: I'm slightly jealous of Juju. Sk: I wish I had someone like you looking out for me! (b2) ++++ Sa: I can't stop wondering about the day the colony is back to normal. Sa: It used to be a fun, bustling place. Sa: That's the home I remember, and I want it back the way it was. Sk: Sharla... I... Sa: And not just that... Sa: (I wonder about who's going to be by my side, enjoying it with me.) Sk: Sharla? What were you gonna say? Sa: Oh, nothing. The point is... Sa: I might not have your power, but I'm gonna get my home back! Sk: And I'll be there to help you. We'll fix it together! ============================================================================= Strength of Heart Sk: Incredible. Sk: To think this was all rubble not so long ago. Dd: That it was. The reconstruction is progressing very rapidly indeed. Dd: And the population is growing day by day. Sk: It just goes to show... Sk: People can achieve anything when they really work together. Dd: Teamwork can fell insurmountable obstacles. Dd: Looking back on the Battle of Sword Valley... Dd: Well, it's a miracle I survived. Sk: I've realised something. (a) It's because you're Dunban. (b) (a) ---- Sk: Sometimes you have to depend on other people for support. Sk: No one can do everything on their own. Dd: I agree. Strength in numbers. Sk: So I'm going to do whatever I can, however I can, to support you all. Sk: If we work together, we can make it through anything. Dd: I hear you, Shulk. That is a sound plan. Sk: I can't do this alone. (a1) No man is an island. (a2) (a1) ---- Sk: If I'd left Colony 9 on my own, I never would've made it this far. Dd: I think you're right, Shulk. And I would have fared the same. Dd: Having companions with us means more than we realise sometimes. Sk: They really do. Reyn especially. He's saved my skin over and over. Sk: But from now on, I'm gonna pull my weight. Dd: Don't diminish your achievements. You've done great things already. Dd: I can vouch for that. Sk: That's nice of you to say, Dunban. Sk: But I feel like I've got a long way to go. And I still need you. Dd: I know, Shulk. Dd: We all need each other in tough times. I'm no different. Dd: So let's keep looking out for each other, and we'll all stay safe. (a2) ++++ Sk: If it hadn't been for you guys, I'd have been completely lost. Dd: I know exactly what you mean. Dd: Alone we fall, but together we can achieve anything. Sk: I feel like all I ever achieve is waiting for everyone to save me. Dd: If anything I'd say the opposite is true! But you know what? Dd: You wouldn't be you if you weren't fretting about these things. Sk: Hmm. Sk: People say I'm a nice guy, but I just do what comes naturally. Sk: What feels right. Dd: That is what makes you special. Never lose that, Shulk. Dd: Now, how about we rejoin the others? Sk: OK, Dunban. Sk: Thank you, by the way. For everything. (b) ++++ Dd: Because I'm a hero, you mean? Dd: I am no hero. I'm not strong enough to be called that. Sk: Don't be silly. You're Dunban! The Hero of the Homs! Sk: No one's stronger than you. Dd: Shulk, tell me something. Dd: What do you think of when you talk about strength? Sk: Physical strength. (b1) Strength of the heart. (b2) (b1) ---- Dd: You're not wrong. Dd: Without the brute force to repel your enemies, you are never safe. Dd: But is that the only meaning? Sk: What do you mean? Sk: You're strong and powerful. That's how you kept Colony 9 safe. Sk: Isn't that enough? Dd: It's plenty. In fact, it might even be too much. Dd: The truth about power is this: Dd: All power corrupts, and those who crave it will be corrupted by it. Sk: Corrupted? I don't understand. Dd: It was once explained to me as I explain it to you now. Dd: Those who crave ultimate power lose all else in their pursuit of it. Sk: Oh... Dd: If you were to seek such power, you might lose all of us. Dd: And I'm sure you don't want that. Sk: Of course I don't! Sk: You know how important you guys are to me. Dd: It's all right, Shulk. Dd: I don't really think that would happen to someone like you. Dd: Let's just call it food for thought. Dd: Come on. Let's head back. Sk: Yeah, the others are waiting. Sk: Thanks for the lesson, Dunban. It was a real eye-opener! (b2) ++++ Dd: Good answer, Shulk. I'd expect nothing less from you. Dd: The weak of heart eventually lose all they have gained. Sk: The only problem is, I don't know how to get stronger in that sense. Sk: I can't exactly do exercises for it. Dd: You raise a valid point. Dd: It all depends on how firm your convictions are. Dd: If you have firm convictions, you are strong of heart. Sk: Dunban, do you have firm convictions? Dd: During my days as a soldier, I did anything I could to protect you all. Dd: So...I'd like to think so, I suppose. Sk: Then that means you're strong of heart. You said so yourself. Sk: So you're a hero after all. Dd: Maybe, maybe not. Dd: I guess that's not for me to say. Sk: Well, you'll always be a hero to me, Dunban. Dd: Remember, this is just my definition of strength. Dd: There must be countless other possible definitions out there. Dd: I bet everyone has their own. Sk: Either way, I'm glad you told me. It all makes sense to me somehow. Sk: True strength...it comes from willpower, right? Dd: No need to be thanking me. You figured that one out yourself. Dd: In truth, choosing not to fight is the nobler path. Dd: And that's something you realise already, isn't it? Dd: Anyway, I think it's time to head back. Sk: Good idea. Let's join the others. They'll be waiting. ============================================================================= One Year On Dd: Has it really been an entire year since the Battle of Sword Valley? Rn: That was a rough time for us Homs. Lots of people died. Dd: Sometimes I think I'm cursed. Dd: It's not right that I survived the battle when so many did not. Rn: Well, I was glad you came back. (a) Don't talk like that! (b) (a) ++++ Rn: Fiora too. The smile on her face went from ear to ear. Dd: I remember. Rn: But it was a big shock seeing you carried in on a stretcher like that. Dd: I'd prefer it if you didn't bring that up. I wasn't exactly thrilled. Rn: I can't help it, Dunban. (a1) I know how you feel. (a2) (a1) ---- Dd: That's fair enough I suppose. Dd: You can't help that you saw me in such an embarrassing state. Rn: That's not what I meant at all! Rn: I was jealous of you, man. I was so upset that I didn't get to fight. Dd: What? Rn: I was a Defence Force soldier too. I had every right to join the battle. Dd: No one thinks any less of you, Reyn. You did your part. Dd: Protecting the people back home is something to be proud of. Rn: Yeah, yeah, I know. Rn: But I felt so...confused. Like, conflicted about staying back. Dd: This is the first I've heard of it. Rn: That's 'cos I've never told anyone before. Dd: Hah! Not like you to keep quiet about something. (a2) ++++ Rn: It wasn't a good day for me either. Rn: I was so jealous of you! It burned me up! Dd: Jealous? Why? Dd: Did you want to fight at the Battle of Sword Valley? Rn: I was in the Defence Force too! I wanted to fight alongside you. Dd: You were young then, Reyn. Too young to go to war. Dd: But I would not say that anymore. Dd: You've changed a lot in a year. You're stronger now. Dd: Mentally and physically. Rn: Haha! Watch yer back, Dunban! Rn: 'Cos I'm gonna overtake you before you know it! Dd: When that day comes, I'll be waiting. Dd: But know this... It's going to be no walk in the park! Rn: Dunban, the Hero of the Homs, has laid down the gauntlet. It's on! (b) ---- Rn: You've gotta know how much Fiora worried when you left! Dd: You raise a valid point. Rn: She spent all her days wishing you'd come back safe. Rn: We used to just hang out in the park. She'd just stare into the sky... Dd: Now that I didn't know... Rn: I was worried too. (b1) But I didn't worry a bit! (b2) (b1) ++++ Rn: I spent the whole time hoping you'd get home ASAP. Dd: I...never would have imagined. I'm so sorry I worried you. Rn: Easy! You're freaking me out. Rn: People might think you actually like me. Dd: And we can't have that, can we? Rn: I guess what we're doing now makes up for all that though. Rn: You and me, shoulder to shoulder. I could get used to this. Dd: You're stronger and fitter than a year ago. Almost a new person. Dd: But you've still got a long way to go. Don't forget that. Rn: Well that lasted all of one minute. Thought you and me were bonding! (b2) ---- Dd: Really? You weren't worried at all? Rn: Not really. Rn: 'Cos somehow I knew you were gonna make it back OK. Dd: I always wonder where you get that confidence, Reyn. Rn: You were pretty banged up though. Rn: Anyone else wouldn't have made it back. Rn: Maybe it's just 'cos Fiora wished so hard. Dd: Knowing Fiora, you might well be right! ============================================================================= Renewed Determination Rn: Shulk, you remember that day? Rn: You know, the day we set out on this whole adventure. Sk: Yeah! How could I forget? Rn: It's unforgettable all right. Rn: All that stuff happened all at once. No one could have predicted it. Sk: It makes me wonder, though... Sk: What if I'd already figured out the Monado before then? Rn: You can't think like that! (a) Could've been veeery different. (b) (a) ---- Rn: Even if you'd been able to see the future way back then... Rn: Who's to say we'd have stopped what happened to the colony? Sk: I know, I know. But I can't help thinking about it. Sk: Think what we could have done if only I'd understood the Monado! Rn: I suppose. Rn: It could have helped a lot, actually. And not just for us. Rn: Homs from all the colonies might have been safer. Sk: Exactly! Sk: So you see why this is such a big deal to me. Rn: Lighten up. It's in the past. (a1) But I'm the bigger screw-up. (a2) (a1) ++++ Sk: I know I'm being hard on myself. Sk: But...I know what I have to do. And nothing's gonna change that. Sk: So don't worry. Rn: I'm not worried. In fact, I think you're doing a bang up job. Rn: But you've gotta realise that not everything's your fault, man. Rn: There are some things even you can't fix. Sk: Haha! I'm not that conceited. Sk: I know I can't do everything. Rn: Good to hear! Rn: And at least we had a good reason to come on this big old adventure. Sk: Yeah. Sk: So that no one else ever has to go through what we did. Sk: I can't rely on the Monado for everything. Sk: I have to keep going. Keep fighting! Rn: That's the spirit, man! Rn: What is it Dunban likes to say? We've gotta seize our destiny? Rn: Whatever kind of destiny we pick, it'll be the best one ever! Sk: I'm glad you're here to help me, Reyn. I couldn't do it alone. Rn: Pfft. Alone? Rn: We've got the entire world fighting on our side! Sk: You're right. Sk: OK! I won't let myself feel down about this anymore. Sk: Everyone's counting on us. Let's go! (a2) ---- Sk: You? What have you done wrong? Rn: I broke a promise I made to Fiora. Rn: I couldn't stop you getting hurt. You know, the time you were shot? Sk: There was nothing you could do. Sk: No one could have predicted him firing that shot. Not even me. Sk: He fooled us all. Rn: You say that, but... Rn: I still broke a promise. And I'll never forgive myself. Sk: Reyn... You can't beat yourself up. Sk: Do you know how many times you've come to my rescue? Sk: And I'm not going to stop needing your help. Rn: Then I won't let you down again. Rn: 'Cos if I do, Fiora'll knock me for ten! Sk: *Laughing* Hahaha! You got that right. Sk: So I better watch your back, while you watch mine! Rn: Haha! Then we'll be going round in circles! Sounds like fun though. (b) ++++ Sk: I know what happened, happened. Sk: But so many people have gone through so much pain. Sk: I wish I could have prevented it all. Rn: I know how you feel, but what's with all the negativity? Sk: I can't help it. Sk: Think of all the people we lost. Too many, if you ask me. Rn: You're not wrong. (b1) Ah, what can you do? (b2) (b1) ++++ Sk: We lost Egil just as we were coming to an understanding. Rn: But don't you get the feeling it was always gonna be that way? Rn: He seemed satisfied at the end. Rn: Like he'd done everything he could. Sk: He gave his all for us. And he gave us hope. Rn: Of course he did! Rn: And to think...he had it in for us all, then he went and saved us. Sk: That shocked me almost as much as you. Sk: But that's why we can't give up. So Egil's sacrifice wasn't in vain! Rn: We're gonna win this one, Shulk. For Egil. Rn: And we won't forget the others who've given their lives. Rn: We'll make them proud! Sk: A new future in their name! That's our promise to them. Sk: And that no one will ever have to suffer through this again. Rn: I'm right with you, Shulk! (b2) ---- Rn: It's not like me to use words like 'destiny' and 'fate'. Rn: But some things are just meant to be. Can't be helped. Sk: Yeah... But that doesn't stop me wishing things had been different. Rn: Shulk...you remember the promise we made that day? Rn: About destroying all the Mechon and stuff. Sk: Yeah, I remember. Sk: And afterwards I realised how wrong we were. Rn: Yeah, me too. Rn: At the time, all I could think about was makin' those Mechon pay. Rn: Turns out we're on the same side. Rn: We've all lost something or someone worth fighting for. Rn: Just like Egil. Sk: I'm glad we figured that out in the end. We did the right thing. Rn: We sure did. And you know what else I think? Rn: I think we should stop making promises we don't intend to keep! Sk: It definitely couldn't hurt. Sk: And so we soldier on! You and me, saving the world! ============================================================================= Dunban's Right Arm Sa: Dunban, how's your arm holding up? Dd: You mean this old thing? Sa: The others told me what happened a year ago, at Sword Valley. Sa: It must have been very painful. Dd: I don't need your sympathy. (a) It hardly even bothers me now. (b) (a) ---- Sa: Well excuse me for being concerned about your well-being! Dd: I'm sorry, that was rude of me. Dd: But I'm fine. I'm sure I've told you I can move it almost perfectly. Sa: I don't think so. In fact, I heard you could barely move it at all. Dd: (Looks like the game is up. She doesn't miss a thing.) Sa: Tell me the truth. How much can you move your right arm? Dd: A bit. (a1) As well as anyone! (a2) (a1) ++++ Sa: I knew it! Sa: Finally the truth comes out. Dd: Did you really know all along? Sa: I'm a medic, aren't I? Sa: Anyway, at least you still have some movement. Sa: That's very positive. Dd: Yes. I still have some feeling. All hope is not lost. Sa: Why not get Linada to look at it? She might be able to help you. Dd: I hadn't thought of that. Sa: Well, what are you waiting for? Sa: Come on! You and me are heading for Junks. Dd: What? Right now? Sa: Yep! And I won't hear any of your excuses, Dunban! Sa: Hurry up! Dd: (This must be what it feels like to be Juju...) (a2) ---- Sa: If you think I'm going to believe that, you don't know me at all! Dd: I... But... It's just... Sa: Can't you see I'm trying to help? Sa: You don't need to try and shield me from any of this. Dd: Sharla, I... Sa: I've seen all kinds of things during my time on the battlefield. Sa: If you think I can't handle the truth, well, you're wrong. Sa: So there's no need to try and be all secretive. Dd: I apologise, Sharla. Dd: I was wrong to doubt you. Sa: Heh. Now you just have to remember that in the future! (b) ++++ Dd: I'm used to this left-handed style now. Sa: It must be tough, though. Sa: Only a year ago you were fighting with the Monado. Sa: And this is your reward... Dd: You think losing the use of one arm is going to hold me back? Sa: You really can't use your right arm then? That's a real shame. Dd: I have no regrets. (b1) I'm perfectly fine like this. (b2) (b1) ++++ Dd: Without the Monado, we would never have repelled the Mechon. Dd: I did what anyone would have done. Sa: There you go again. Showing off in that special Dunban way. Dd: I wouldn't be in any fit state to be showing off if not for all of you. Sa: Wow! That's some honesty right there! Sa: I can't believe I've stripped away so many layers so quickly! Dd: Did I say too much? Sa: No. It was quite sweet, actually. Dd: Erm... Can I ask you not to tell Reyn about this conversation? Dd: If he ever found out, I wouldn't hear the end of it. Sa: Don't worry! My lips are sealed! (b2) ---- Sa: No you're not! Dd: I'm fine because I know it was all for the best. Dd: I had no choice. There was no one else able to use the Monado. Sa: Well...I suppose... Dd: I did it because I had to. And I have no regrets. Sa: Dunban, ever the humble hero. Sa: I'm sorry for pushing you. I just wanted you to know I care. Dd: I know. Thank you. Dd: Your honesty is refreshing, and I really appreciate it. ============================================================================= Recovery and Reflection Fi: It's horrible to think of what the Mechon did to Colony 6. Dd: Yes. The devastation here was far worse than in Colony 9. Fi: There were two things we had that they didn't: Shulk and the Monado. Dd: Yes. Not that their Defence Force was anything to sneeze at... Dd: But in the end, the Mechon just overwhelmed them. Fi: It makes me sad. (a) We should say sorry. (b) (a) ++++ Fi: So many lives lost. Fi: And Sharla lost someone so close to her. Dd: Many lives were sacrificed. More than could ever be justified. Dd: Even now that I know the reasons behind the Mechon's actions. Fi: Everyone here just wanted to protect the people the loved. Fi: They didn't deserve this. Dd: To protect those who we love, we often must sacrifice everything. Fi: But why, Dunban? (a1) It must have been really tough. (a2) (a1) ---- Fi: Why couldn't we have all lived in peace? Dd: Hindsight is a wonderful thing, Fiora. But what's done is done. Dd: I, too, wish we could have settled our differences sooner. Dd: Unfortunately, it was not to be. Fi: Just think... If this stupid war with the Mechon had never happened... Dd: I know. Dd: We might have had an even better peace than we're striving for. Dd: But I'll tell you a secret, Fiora. Dd: I think I fit better into the world we're living in now. Fi: Me too, Dunban. Fi: The world is a complicated place, with all its war and struggle. Fi: But I can't quite imagine life without all that. Dd: Hopefully Colony 6 is free of it now, though. Dd: The people here deserve a real home. Fi: Definitely. But you know what that means, right? Fi: You and me have to help out. Fi: Don't start complaining, Dunban! Dd: Me? Complain? Never! I'll be glad to help out. Dd: Just don't overdo it, OK? Dd: Leave all the heavy lifting to me and Reyn. Fi: I know, I know. Fi: Anyway, we'd better not keep Shulk waiting. He'll start to worry. (a2) ++++ Fi: The Colony 9 attack is so vivid in my mind. Fi: I can hear Shulk's scream as the metal-faced Mechon attacked me. Dd: Shulk was a wreck after that. I'd never seen the boy so distraught. Dd: I imagine that's how the people of Colony 6 felt. Fi: I made up my mind after that. Fi: I decided I'd never endanger myself so thoughtlessly again. Dd: I should hope so too, Fiora. Dd: I won't forget his cries, and I don't wish to hear them again. Fi: I'll be more careful in future. Fi: That's my promise to you, Dunban. I won't throw my life away. Dd: I'll hold you to that promise. Dd: We'd all miss you too much if you were gone. Me, Shulk, Reyn... Fi: I know. It was a silly thing to do. Fi: No matter how tough the battle is, how scary it gets... Fi: We all need to stick together. Dd: Yes. That's the only way. Dd: OK! I think it's time we were getting back to the others. Dd: They might be getting worried. Fi: After what happened, I bet Shulk is afraid to let me out of his sight. Fi: Come on, Dunban, hurry it up! Dd: (I promise you, Fiora... I'll never let you come to such harm again.) (b) ---- Fi: I mean... we should say something. You know, to the survivors. Dd: What would we say? Dd: 'Sorry we didn't get here in time with our magical sword.' Dd: How well would they take that? Fi: I know, but... Fi: Here we are, alive and well. Fi: We've barely even helped with the reconstruction. Fi: We could give money or food, but I feel like that wouldn't be enough. Dd: There's only so much we can do. Dd: Ultimately, the people who live here have to rebuild their lives. Dd: And that's up to them. Fi: Is that really how you feel? (b1) I guess you're right. (b2) (b1) ---- Dd: It is. Dd: I know it's hard not to worry. It's not as if I don't want to help. Dd: But don't forget we have another task ahead of us. Fi: You're right, as always. Fi: We need to finish what we set out to do. That's what matter most. Dd: And don't forget it benefits them as much as us. Dd: We're fighting for the entire world. Fi: Dunban, you're so strong. I wish I had your resolve. Dd: It's all a matter of perspective. Dd: But I understand why you find it difficult to deal with this. Dd: It just means you truly care. Fi: Thank you. Fi: The truth is, my mind is made up. It's my heart that wavers. Fi: I'm sorry, Dunban. Dd: What are you apologising for? Dd: You're my sister, and I wouldn't want you to be any other way. Dd: I'm glad you're here by my side. You make me proud. Fi: Eurgh, I can't believe you just said all that! How embarrasing [sic]! Fi: Right, come on. We need to get back. Can't keep Shulk waiting! Dd: OK, I get the message. Come on then. (b2) ++++ Dd: So you see that they have to do this with their own hands. Dd: It's an accomplishment that will stay with them forever. Dd: If we did it all for them, it wouldn't be the same. Fi: Yes, it totally makes sense to me now. Fi: You're right, Dunban. My brother, the cleverest Homs alive! Dd: I think it's just that I have a few years on you and the others. Dd: When you get to my age, you'll come to the same conclusion. Fi: I don't know about that. Fi: I think it's more because of the experiences you've had. Dd: Before my injury, I was fortunate enough to see a lot of Bionis. Dd: And I rebuilt our house more than a few times. Fi: I remember! Fi: We rebuilt our home, and that's what makes it so special. Fi: That feeling of getting back on our feet made me happy and confident. Dd: That's exactly what I'm talking about. Dd: Sounds like my work here is done. How about we look for the others? Fi: OK! Lots to do. And lots to see as well! -- The Colony Reborn Sk: So, Sharla... Is this what Colony 6 is supposed to look like? Sa: It's definitely getting there. Sa: We've come a long way. A little more work and it'll be perfect. Sk: Really? If you ask me, it's looking good already. Sk: Plenty of warm homes and thriving businesses... It's great! Sa: True, we have nearly everything we need. But we can't stop here. Sa: It has to be a place where everyone can feel safe. Sa: Then it'll really feel like Colony 6 again. Sk: I can't wait to see the result! (a) A safe haven for everyone, huh? (b) (a) ---- Sa: It won't be easy. In fact, it could take a very long time. Sa: But one day, Colony 6 will be back the way it used to be. Sk: It might not take as long as you think. Sk: When peace is restored to Bionis, just wait. People will flock here. Sa: I hope so. Sa: But what if people still don't want to come back even then? Sk: Why would you say that? (a1) Don't worry about it! (a2) (a1) ---- Sa: Say we get the colony working. Sa: No one can forget that this place was reduced to rubble in a day. Sk: *Camera zooms out* But just look at it! Sk: People have already moved here in droves. Sk: And they're all mucking in. It's an exciting place to live, like before! Sk: The colony is on the up, Sharla. Sa: I know, I see it too. Sa: But it just doesn't feel like the colony I knew. Sa: In more ways than one. Sk: *Normal camera* Then make it into a better colony than the one you knew. Sa: Better? Well, I suppose so. Sa: Actually, you know what? You're right. I was being silly. Sk: You'll never forget the past, but you can never bring it back either. Sk: And if it was a good place to live, make it the BEST place to live. Sa: But...how do I do that? Sk: You can't do it on your own. Sk: We'll all help you. Me, Reyn... everyone! We'll do it together. Sa: You really think Reyn'll chip in? Sa: Hmm. When this is all over, I'll ask him. It'd be great if he did. Sk: Of course he'll help. We all will. Sk: And Reyn isn't gonna turn down a request by you, Sharla. Trust me. Sk: Anyway, you wanna go and find the others? Sa: Yeah, and we'd better hurry. Don't want to make Fiora jealous. Sa: Thanks for lending an ear, Shulk. (a2) ++++ Sk: I only have to look at the faces of the colony's residents. Sk: Everyone is happy here. Sa: You really think so? Sk: If they really felt unsure about moving here, would they smile? Sk: They feel safe and happy here. Who wouldn't? Sa: Yeah. You're probably right. Sa: If I lived in a place I didn't like, it would just make me sad. Sk: Right. So don't worry, Sharla! Everything's gonna be fine. Sk: Me and Reyn are gonna come and visit all the time when this is over! Sa: Oh yeah... I guess Reyn will go back to Colony 9, huh? Sk: What was that? You say something? Sa: No, it's nothing important. Hey, let's go and find the others. Sk: OK. They'll be waiting anyway. But I enjoyed our chat, Sharla. (b) ++++ Sk: I know what you mean. Sk: You've come so far... It would be a tragedy to lose it all again. Sa: Yes. And that's why we have to make it safe. Sa: A place where no one will ever be sad or afraid of losing their home. Sk: You will achieve your dream. Sa: How can you be so sure? Sk: Just look around you. (b1) Because it's everyone's dream. (b2) (b1) ---- Sk: What kind of people do you see? It's not just us Homs. Sk: There are Nopon, High Entia and Machina as well. Sk: Do you realise what you're creating here? Sa: You know, I hadn't even thought about it before... Sa: But it's amazing to see this. Sa: All the different people of the world, living together in peace. Sk: It's something special all right. And I realised something else. Sk: This colony will become the focal point of Bionis. Sa: *Camera zooms out* Here? Our colony? Sk: I don't doubt it for a second. Sk: Colony 6 will be a place where it doesn't matter where you're from. Sk: Anyone can come here and make friends, build a family. Sk: Can you picture it, Sharla?! Sk: Those who lost their lives will not have died in vain. Sk: And people everywhere can look to it as a beacon of hope. Sa: You're right, Shulk! Sa: We can't afford to lose this hard work. We have to push on. Sk: Great! Just don't forget to tell me if you need anything. Sa: I will. Sa: And don't expect me to give you the easy work! (b2) ++++ Sk: Everyone here has the same goal. Sk: Reconstructing Colony 6 is practically what they live for. Sa: I guess I'm the only one worried. Sa: But it's all I think about sometimes. Sa: How long peace will last... Whether we'll be safe even then... Sk: *Camera zooms out* I can totally understand. Sk: What happened here was awful, and you'll never forget it. Sk: Just like I'll never forget the attack on Colony 9. Sk: But this is a chance for a new beginning. Sa: I guess if I can't let go of the past I'll never get over what happened. Sk: Exactly. Sk: And it'll help if you create as many good memories as you can. Sk: Then maybe the bad ones won't seem so bad. Sa: Now you mention it, we've had some good times on the road. Sa: And I don't intend on forgetting those any time soon. Sa: And...well, there are other good memories I don't plan to forget. Sk: Are you talking about the time you spent with Gadolt? Sk: It might sound weird coming from me, but hold onto those memories. Sk: In the end, memories of Gadolt are the only proof he was here. Sa: I'll never forget him, don't worry. Sa: Thank you. For everything. I feel like rebuilding the entire world! Sk: I know the feeling! But I'll be glad if I can help out even a little bit. Sk: Anyway, let's find the others. ============================================================================= Quiet Time Fi: This park is very pretty. Fi: There's a park in Colony 9, but it's nothing quite like this. Ri: Park bring back memories for Fiora? Fi: It does, actually. It brings back a lot of memories. Fi: Shulk, Reyn and me used to play in the park in Colony 9. Ri: Riki love memories! Park remind Riki of forest! Fi: Nature's wonderful, isn't it? (a) Not all memories are good. (b) (a) ++++ Fi: When I'm surrounded by nature, I feel alive, like nothing matters. Ri: Riki too, Riki too! Grass whispering, trees talking! Fi: Whispering and talking, huh? I like the sounds of nature, too. Fi: I bet you miss Makna Forest sometimes. Ri: Fiora so clever! Ri: Fiora understand Riki's talking and feeling! Fi: It must just be a coincidence. (a1) I like the way you speak. (a2) (a1) ---- Fi: I just happened to be thinking the same thing you were. That's all. Ri: You sort of know what Riki mean though. Ri: If Reyn here, he only complain. He say, 'Too cold!' or 'Too hot!' Fi: Yeah, that sounds like him. Fi: But Reyn has his good points too. If you look hard enough. Ri: Riki know them! Reyn always protect friends' backs! Ri: When Shulk in danger, Reyn first on scene. Kapow! Fi: Something like that. Fi: And he kept the promise he made to me. You can always trust him. Ri: What Reyn promise Fiora? Tell Riki, tell Riki! Ri: Not fair to keep secret. Fi: Secret! Yes, just the word I was thinking of. It's a secret. Fi: It's just between me, Reyn and Shulk. I can't tell you I'm afraid. Ri: Not fair, not fair! Riki one of the gang now! Fi: Sorry, Riki. You can pout all you want. Fi: Come on, let's get back. Playtime is over. *Leaves* Ri: Grrrr. Fiora not good friend. Always teasing Riki. Ri: Fiora? Fiora! Don't leave Riki! Wait for Riki! (a2) ++++ Fi: When I hear you talk, I get a nice warm feeling inside. Fi: Maybe it's magic?! Ri: Really? Hmm... Riki not know why, but Nopon not usually magic. Fi: Hahaha. That's OK, Riki. Not every question needs an answer. Fi: All I mean is...I wouldn't change a thing about you. Ri: Not change Riki? That means Riki good! Fi: As long as you keep cheering everyone up, you certainly are. Ri: Leave it to Riki! Ri: Riki's job is to make friends feel bestest ever! Fi: Come on, you big ball of fun! Fi: Let's see if you can make everyone laugh. Ri: Riki ready, Fiora! Ri: OK! Where is mean old Reyn? I make him into happy Hom Hom! (b) ---- Ri: Riki not get what Fiora mean. Memories are good thing! Fi: Not always, Riki. Memories can be good and bad. Fi: Even you must have a few not-so-good memories. Ri: Riki not have any! Ri: When Riki is in forest, Riki only feel warm and happy! Fi: I guess you can't understand. (b1) I envy you, Riki. (b2) (b1) ---- Fi: I'm afraid I can't block out all the bad thoughts like you can. Ri: Riki know Fiora can. Just need to have nature all around! Fi: You really think so? Fi: Maybe we should spend some time together in Makna Forest. Ri: Yippee! Fiora and Riki go now! Ri: Riki know Fiora will be overjollyed! Fi: I'm sure it will be lovely, Riki. Ri: What's wrong, Fiora? Fiora's smile upside down. Fi: Don't worry. It's nothing. Fi: I just wish I could learn to share your love for nature. Ri: Fiora not learn! Fiora feeeeeelll. Ri: Then Fiora know the true joy of living in the wild. Fi: Sounds like fun! Fi: We'd better bring peace to Frontier Village ASAP. Fi: Anyway, let's go and find Shulk. Ri: Riki follow Fiora! Ri: When Frontier Village have peace, all Nopon have big party! (b2) ++++ Fi: I love being in nature too. Fi: But it doesn't make all my problems go away. Ri: Why Fiora not smile? Fiora should smile! Smile and laugh! Ri: Park is nice. Park make Riki happy. Also make Fiora happy! Fi: It's not that simple, Riki. Fi: Sometimes even things I like don't make me happy. Ri: Mmm... Riki not understand what Fiora say. Ri: But Riki know Fiora can laugh! Fi: Why are you so determined to make me laugh? Ri: That Riki's job! Ri: When friend cry boo-hoo, everyone cry boo-hoo. Ri: Heropon Riki must rescue friends! Fi: Riki... Ri: Cheer up, Fiora! Cheery Fiora make happy Fiora! Fi: ... Fi: Hahaha! Fi: All right, Riki. It worked. You were right, I'll give you that. Fi: I just needed to stop being so down in the dumps! Ri: Riki love Fiora's smile. Riki want to show Shulk! Ri: Come, come, Fiora! Go find friends. *Leaves* Fi: Wait, Riki! There's no hurry. Fi: What am I going to do with you?! ============================================================================= A Broken Watch Sa: Come on, come on... Where is it? Sk: You OK, Sharla? Sa: ...Aha! Sa: Found it! My pocket watch! Sa: And still in one piece... more or less. Sk: It's a beautiful watch. (a) It's kind of dirty. (b) (a) ++++ Sk: The design is so elaborate. I've never seen one like it. Sk: So this is yours? Sa: Yes. It was my father's. He gave it to me before he died. Sk: It's nice. Sk: But why was it here? Sa: I think I dropped it here when we evacuated the colony. Sa: Otharon must have found it. Sk: I can tell he looked after it. Does it still work? Sa: No. From the looks of things, it stopped when I dropped it. Sk: I can fix it! (a1) It's ticked its last tock. (a2) (a1) ++++ Sk: If we could just get our hands on an ether battery, I could fix it. Sa: Really? That would be amazing, Shulk! Sk: I can fix anything, no problem! Sk: The people at Colony 9 were always coming to me to fix things. Sa: You're so kind, Shulk. Sa: You don't know how much this watch means to me. Sa: I'll never forget how happy I was when my father gave it to me. Sk: I can tell you cherish it. I hope I can make it work again. Sk: And if you need me to repair anything else, just ask! Sa: I'll let you know, Shulk. Thank you so much. (a2) ---- Sk: It's a really rare kind of watch. Sk: I'm sorry, Sharla. I don't know if I can fix this. Sa: Are you sure? I thought you were good at repairing stuff. Sk: Kinda. But not that good. Sk: Hold on a second... Sk: There might be one way. If we had an ether battery maybe... Sa: Leave it to me. I'll find one. Will you fix it for me then? Sa: It's a family heirloom, you see. Sa: My father gave it to me, and I'd be heartbroken if you couldn't. Sk: It sounds like a big deal to you, so I'll do everything I can. Sk: With any luck you'll get your watch back. Sa: Oh, thank you so much, Shulk! I knew you wouldn't let me down. (b) ---- Sk: In fact, the face is all cracked and you can't even see the time. Sa: Oi, careful what you say! It's not a piece of junk! Sk: S-sorry, Sharla. Sk: What's it doing here though? Sa: When we ran from the colony, I must have dropped it. Sa: Otharon probably picked it up. Sk: You know, this thing looks kind of expensive. Sk: You should sell it! (b1) Was it a present from someone? (b2) (b1) ---- Sk: I bet you'd make a fortune! Sa: Let me be clear, Shulk. I could never, ever sell this watch! Sk: I-I didn't mean to offend you. Sa: This watch was given to me by my dying father. Sa: It's very important to me. Sk: I'm sorry. I wouldn't have suggested that if I'd realised. Sa: It's fine. Forget it. It probably can't be fixed anyway. Sk: Hold on. I reckon I can fix it. Sk: All I need is an ether battery. Sa: Really? You can fix this? Sk: Just leave it to me, Sharla! Sk: Back in Colony 9, I was the best repairman around! Sa: Then I'll leave it in your capable hands. Thanks, Shulk! (b2) ++++ Sa: Yes. My father gave it to me before he...passed away. Sk: I'm sorry. It must mean a lot to you. Sa: It's all I have to remember him by. Sk: Lucky you found it. It's just a shame it's not working... Sa: A big shame. But at least I've got it back. Sk: Wait! If I had an ether battery, I think I might be able to fix it! Sa: You could?! Don't joke with me. Can you really fix it? Sk: You can't just get them anywhere, but that's all I really need. Sk: If you want it fixed, leave it to me! Sa: Wow... I can't thank you enough, Shulk. Sa: And I'm sure it'll make Juju happy as well. ============================================================================= A Wistful Glow Rn: This ether lamp... It's like the ones in Tephra Cave. Sa: You mean the ones on the route between our two colonies? Sa: Those would have been put there by people from Colony 6. Rn: You learn something new every day. Sa: You see the yellow glow? Sa: That's because the lamp uses electric ether crystals. Rn: Didn't know that either. Rn: I guess some days you learn two new things. Rn: I do know that electric-type crystals glow the brightest. Sa: Bingo! Sa: Once upon a time, replenishing lamps with fresh ether was my job. Sa: It was my very first job, actually. Sa: I used to follow the route all the way down into the Ether Mine. Rn: Sounds like fun! (a) Must've been tough. (b) (a) ++++ Sa: I used to get lost when I started. But I soon got the hang of it. Sa: We used to time each other to see who could get it done quickest. Rn: You mean...you and Gadolt? Sa: Am I that obvious? Rn: You start talking about your old life and I see tears... Rn: It had to be Gadolt. Sa: Didn't think you were even paying attention. Rn: Oi! I always pay attention to you. Sa: Shulk said something interesting to me once. Sa: He thinks you're...insensitive when it comes to this kind of thing. Rn: He can talk! The only girl he's ever talked to is Fiora! Sa: Hahaha. I'm almost jealous. I mean, of your male camaraderie. Sa: I wonder what it would be like. Being a guy, doing guy things... Rn: Like fighting alongside Gadolt? (a1) Gadolt would just be a friend. (a2) (a1) ---- Sa: I know I can't change the past, whatever I do or say. Sa: But when everyone fled the colony during the attack... Sa: I was so...angry! Sa: I wanted to be by his side, and fight to the end with him. Rn: One good thing came out of it all. You met us. Rn: Me and Shulk couldn't have got far without you, Sharla. Rn: We really needed you. Rn: And all those people at the camp. I saw how they needed you. Sa: Reyn... I... Rn: Wait, I've got that all wrong. There's no 'needed' about it. Rn: We need you more than ever. Rn: You and your healing abilities are a vital part of our team. Rn: That Heal Bullet of yours has saved my bacon more than once. Sa: Thanks. It's nice to feel needed. Sa: And you're right... I have an important role to play. Sa: One I couldn't have fulfilled if I'd stayed and fought. Sa: Thank you, Reyn. Sa: You have an amazing calming affect [sic] on me, you know that? Rn: That's funny... I'd say the same about you! Sa: Just remember that you can't rely on me forever. Sa: Someday you'll have to learn how to fight properly. Sa: You know...without taking so many knocks on the head. Rn: Haha! No promises, but I'll give it my best shot. (a2) ++++ Sa: Hehe. Even the most ridiculous thing is a serious question to you. Sa: It's quite sweet actually. I guess that's why I like you. Rn: What? What am I missing here? Sa: I meant that if I were a guy, I might have been able to fight. Sa: I could have stayed with Gadolt in Colony 6 until the end. Sa: That's all. Sa: I really didn't want to leave without him. Sa: Not while the Mechon were destroying the entire colony. Rn: I'm so sorry, Sharla. Sa: Maybe I should have just kicked up a fuss like a little girl. Sa: Refused to leave. Sa: He always thought the best of me. Trusting in me, relying on me. Sa: But I was never as strong as he thought. Rn: I'm sure letting you go was just as hard for him. Rn: But he put his feelings aside for your sake. Rn: So you could live on. So you could lead the colony. Sa: I know. Sa: But...I miss him so much. Rn: Cheer up, Sharla! Rn: Hey, how about this? From now on I'll work really, really hard... Rn: And then one day I'll be the man of your dreams! Sa: Heh. How long's that gonna take? Sa: I can't spend my entire life waiting around! Rn: That's my Sharla all right! Rn: I like you best when you're giving me that big old smile of yours. Sa: Looks like you're learning fast! Keep those compliments coming. Sa: And by the way, Reyn... Thank you. (b) ---- Sa: Not really. It wasn't that bad. Sa: I just kept my eyes on the prize. Sa: Otharon used to give me a pretty good reward whenever I finished. Rn: Oh yeah? What'd he give you? Sa: A small ether crystal shard. Sa: Not big enough to give out any energy on its own. Sa: But when I had enough, I'd combine them to make a cartridge. Rn: You could do that back then? Wow. That's some talent. Rn: When Shulk asks me to do gem crafting, he ends up hating me. Sa: Colony 6 relies on its ether mining. We grow up with it. Sa: So using ether and manipulating it to make things comes naturally. Sa: Thinking about it brings back so many memories... Sa: I collected crystal shards of all different colours. Sa: Then I tried mixing them together. Sa: I thought I might be able to make an entirely new colour of crystal. Sa: I combined things like... Rn: Electric, wind and water? (b1) Wind crystals and glowmoss? (b2) (b1) ++++ Sa: Yeah, things like that. Sa: If you mix yellow and blue paint, you get green, right? Sa: I figured it had to be the same for ether crystals, so I tried it out. Rn: Did you get it to work? Rn: I had a go at doing something like that once. Rn: Taking bits of different crystals and mixing them all up. Rn: Then Shulk started shouting at me for wasting all our good crystals. Rn: So I just kinda gave up. Sa: I guess it's different in Colony 9. Sa: You don't have a limitless supply of crystals like we do. Sa: Me, Gadolt and Juju used to experiment all the time, but... Sa: If the colour is different, forget it. All you get is a pile of soot. Rn: Funny, isn't it? Rn: Only a small difference and things don't mix well. Sa: Like men and women... Rn: Where did that come from? We were talking about ether crystals. Sa: It's this place. I just can't help thinking about certain things. Sa: I learnt so much from Gadolt. About rifles, cartridges, fighting. Sa: If only I could turn back time... Rn: Don't be so down on yourself. Rn: All that frowning is gonna give you wrinkles. Sa: Not the nicest way to put it, but I can see what you're getting at. Sa: Sorry, Reyn. I guess I'm not really acting like myself... Sa: But talking to you like this makes me feel calm somehow. Rn: I don't even know what you're supposed to be apologising for. Rn: But whatever it is, it doesn't matter. Rn: Now, how about we try mixing up some different colour crystals? Rn: We could be the first people ever to make a new colour! Sa: Maybe now's not quite the right time for that. Sa: But one day I'll teach you all there is to know about ether crystals. Sa: You have to handle them with care, like a woman's heart! Rn: Ouch. I get the feeling this stuff's never gonna be my forte... (b2) ---- Sa: What? Sa: What does glowmoss have to do with anything? Rn: I just figured 'cos of the colour. Rn: Glowmoss is green and wind-type ether crystals are green, right? Sa: Reyn, even if that made the slightest bit of sense... Sa: I was talking about combining DIFFERENT colours! Remember? Sa: But...you have got me wondering what would happen. Rn: Then let's give it a go! Rn: You and me. Could get interesting! Sa: Gadolt used to experiment with these things as well. Sa: Him and Otharon tried all different things when making cartridges. Sa: He used to get so mad when whatever he was trying failed. Sa: He taught me all this. Using rifles, constructing cartridges. Rn: Oh, sorry about that. Didn't mean to remind you. Rn: I just thought it might be cool to hang out and combine crystals. Sa: Oh, stop it, Reyn. You don't have to tiptoe around me. Rn: I just don't want to upset you. Sa: Just keep being you, Reyn. Sa: Now, let's find some glowmoss. Rn: So we're gonna try out my idea? Nice! Rn: Trust me, we're gonna make the best ether crystal ever! Rn: Even that old geezer Otharon'll be impressed! ============================================================================= The Shimmering Marsh Sk: This place is... beautiful. Dd: Some call it the Shimmering Marsh. Sk: I can see why! Sk: Had you ever been here before? Dd: No. And I'm suitably amazed. Dd: How can a place light up so much at night? Dd: I've never seen anything like it. Sk: I have. Once, when I was very young. Dd: Maybe it was a dream? (a) Really? Interesting. (b) (a) ---- Sk: It wasn't a dream. I know it! Sk: But...I do remember being asleep for most of it. Dd: Then it must have been a dream, surely. Sk: No. It was at the ruins where me and the Monado were found. Sk: The same thing happens there. At night, glowing ether fills the air. Dd: All right, I'm convinced. Sk: It's OK. My memory of it's a little hazy anyway. Sk: I assume the effect is caused by high ether content in the ground. Dd: Ether content? Sk: Surely you must know something about ether content. Sk: How it's higher in some regions of Bionis than in others? Dd: Especially the upper regions. (a1) Especially the lower regions. (a2) (a1) ++++ Dd: Right? Dd: The upper regions of Bionis are known for their high ether content. Sk: Correct! You always know the right answer, Dunban. Dd: Well, everyone knows that one. Sk: Anyway, the ruins are quite high up on the Bionis. Dd: Do you remember much about that time? Sk: I found my way into those ruins but then I lost consciousness. Sk: That's about all I can remember from back then. Sk: But for some reason I can just about recall that ether glow. Dd: I suppose you'd never forget a sight like that. (a2) ---- Sk: What? No! Sk: It's the upper regions that have higher ether content! Dd: Oh. Er... I see. Sk: Way down where we live, the ether levels are at their lowest. Sk: That's why there aren't as many rich ether mines. Dd: Well done, Shulk! You passed my test. Sk: So you're saying you were just pretending not to know? Sk: Hmm... Dd: I'm so glad I got to see this wondrous sight. Aren't you? Dd: I'd just love to spend some more time exploring it...in silence... Sk: Whatever you say, Dunban. (b) ++++ Sk: It was at the ruins where me and the Monado were found. Sk: The same thing happens there. At night, glowing ether fills the air. Dd: So that's where you saw it. Sk: I don't remember much about the ruins. Sk: I found my way in and then I lost consciousness. Sk: That's about all I can remember from back then, except the light. Dd: If it was as beautiful as this, no wonder you remember it. Dd: Ether is an incredible thing. Sk: It really is. Dd: Will it ever run out? (b1) It can't be good for us. (b2) (b1) ++++ Sk: Great question, Dunban! I've always wondered that. Dd: Great minds think alike. And your thoughts? Sk: I can't draw any firm conclusions or anything. Sk: All I know is, ether isn't unlimited. So I guess it won't last forever. Dd: I don't suppose we have anything to worry about in our lifetime. Sk: Maybe not. But we should still try and find another energy source. Sk: We can't just rely on it always being there. Dd: Energy aside, it will be a shame when this natural beauty is gone. Sk: Yes... Whether that's a hundred years from now or a thousand. (b2) ---- Sk: Why do you think that? There's no evidence to support it. Dd: It's just a feeling. Nothing more. Sk: Actually, we haven't made any big leaps in researching this field. Sk: So it's still possible. Dd: It was just a passing thought. Don't take it so seriously, Shulk. Sk: But you're right, Dunban. Sk: It has to be worth spending more resources to study this. Dd: Hey, where are you going? Sk: I'm gonna fetch my notes! *leaves* Dd: But we were enjoying this strange phenomenon! Dd: You can take the boy out of the lab, but not the lab out of the boy! ============================================================================= High Entia History Dd: Those statues... Dd: Am I right in thinking they are of High Entia origin? Me: They are indeed. Me: These are the Sororal Statues. Me: They depict twin goddesses representing order and justice. Dd: A treacherous place to erect them. Me: This place was once used for our Coming-of-Age Ceremony. Dd: That seems fitting. (a) Here?! (b) (a) ++++ Me: Potential successors to the throne who came of age were left here. Me: If they survived, they could return to the capital, triumphant. Dd: I see. So only the best specimens continued the imperial line. Dd: Ruthless but effective. Me: That is what I was told, at least. Me: It was probably all just a formality. Dd: Of course. Dd: Fighting off the Satorl Guardian alone is no easy task. Me: However, I have heard of a former ruler who did see the task through. Dd: An adventurous one, no doubt. (a1) A half-Homs like you? (a2) (a1) ---- Me: The participant has no choice in participating. Dd: Then it sounds as if they were simply being led to their death. Me: There must have been a reason for conducting the ceremony. Me: Something that made it necessary in that particular case. Dd: Are you suggesting...this High Entia was of mixed blood? Me: Yes. Me: The ceremony must have been needed to gain the people's trust. Me: Just as I faced the Tomb. Dd: Does this place remind you of the Tomb? Me: Yes. Of the hardship I faced there. Me: And the friends that saved my life. I am forever grateful to you all. (a2) ++++ Me: Very astute, Dunban. Me: Not a pleasant fact, but still true. Dd: I find it ironic. Dd: Goddesses of order and justice looking down with biased gazes. Me: Still, I can understand why the ceremony was necessary. Me: It must have been the only way to secure the people's trust. Dd: The same reason you faced the Tomb, right? Me: ... Dd: Calm yourself, Melia. Dd: Whenever you feel afraid, know that we're here to protect you. Me: I know, Dunban. You saved my life at the Tomb. Me: I will never forget the debt I owe you and the others. (b) ---- Me: Yes, here! What are you trying to suggest?! Me: This site is a stunning example of High Entia architectural skill. Dd: I can't deny that. Me: Oh no...! * Dd: What's wrong, Melia? Me: Each statue is supposed to have an either crystal on its chest. Me: But one of them is missing! Dd: Thankfully, the other statue's crystal is still present. Me: I wonder what happened... Dd: Perhaps it was stolen. (b1) It might have fallen off. (b2) (b1) ++++ Dd: Many people with dubious reputations travel through here. Me: I have heard of such people. Me: I don't suppose we'll ever see it again... Dd: Why don't you replace it? Me: You're right, Dunban. Me: The twin goddesses of order and justice must look their part. Dd: Order and justice, huh? Dd: I am sure they'd be happy if you were to help them out. (b2) ---- Me: I have my doubts that such a thing is possible... Dd: Perhaps it was due to a flaw in the construction. Dd: Even the wise and skilled High Entia must have their off days. Me: Spare me your sarcasm, Dunban. Even if you are correct. Dd: Why don't you replace the crystal? Bring the sisters back to glory! Dd: I'm sure you're up to the task. Me: This is not a bad idea. Me: What one sister has, the other craves. And we cannot have that! ============================================================================= Atop the Crown Tree Sa: Isn't it nice, climbing up trees? It really takes me back... Ri: To when Sharla was a littlepon? Sa: Yes, exactly. Ah, to be a little girl again... Ri: Riki feel like littlepon too! Sa: What a strange thing to say. (a) I'm not surprised. (b) (a) ---- Ri: Riki say something strange? Sharla mad at Riki? Sa: No, nothing like that. It's just...surprising. Sa: To hear you say you feel young. You're sort of childish anyway. Ri: Riki not child, Riki all grown up! * Sa: I know, I know. You're older than Dunban, aren't you? Ri: Riki much much much older than Dundun! * Ri: Riki marry Oka, Riki have children, soon become grampypon! * Sa: You don't act like it. (a1) You're very responsible. (a2) (a1) ---- Sa: You've built up quite a debt. Ri: B-b-but...Riki's tummy hurt! Ri: Riki think Sharla should stop talking about debt! Sa: Now now, Riki. You can't avoid your responsibilities. Ri: Sharla wrong wrong wrong! Ri: Riki work very hard for family. Ri: But not enough for Oka and littlepon. Never enough... Sa: Eleven mouths to feed is a lot. I don't envy you, Riki. Ri: Riki keep working and pay back debt. Riki promise! Ri: Riki want all littlepon to become bestest Heropon of village! Sa: Just like a proper dad! Sa: All right then, Riki. Go and make your family proud! (a2) ++++ Sa: If I were in your position, I'm not sure I could cope. Ri: But Sharla can't be daddypon! Sa: No... That's not what I meant. Sa: I mean... One day, I hope to have a family of my own, like you. Ri: Sharla will have big family! Riki know this. Heropon's instinct! Ri: 'All good things come to those who wait!' Sa: Riki, what a lovely phrase! Where did you learn it? Ri: Chief Dunga tell Riki. Ri: When Riki and Oka not yet couple. Ri: Riki want to be with Oka, so Dunga teach Riki new phrase. Sa: Well I think it's lovely, Riki. Thank you for sharing it with me. (b) ++++ Sa: I'm sure you loved climbing trees when you were little, just like me. Ri: Sharla good at climbing trees? Ri: Sharla look like proper lady. Riki not know Sharla climb trees. Sa: That's very nice of you to say. I'm really not that ladylike. Sa: I couldn't get enough of sitting at the top of trees... Ri: Riki and littlepon love climbing trees together! Ri: But but... Sa: What is it, Riki? Ri: One littlepon not like it. Sa: Oh dear! Why not? (b1) A Nopon that can't climb?! (b2) (b1) ++++ Sa: Did something happen to them? Ri: Riki know reason. Ri: When Riki take eyes away from littlepon, littlepon get scared! Ri: Littlepon stuck at top of tree and wait for Riki for whole day! Sa: Oh, that sounds horrible. Are they OK now? Ri: Other littlepon at school tease my littlepon because not climb now. Ri: All Riki's fault... Sa: Don't beat yourself up, Riki. Sa: With some love and care, the little one will be fine. Sa: And when they're ready, you can take them climbing again. Ri: Riki like Sharla's idea! You are nice Hom Hom, Sharla. Sa: And you're a good father, Riki. The bestest Heropon father! (b2) ---- Ri: Village has lots of littlepon that can't climb trees! * Sa: Sorry, Riki. I shouldn't stereotype your people. Ri: Plus, littlepon have good reason! Ri: Riki take eyes away from littlepon. Then littlepon get stuck in tree. Ri: Littlepon waited for Riki long time. Now littlepon not like climbing. Sa: Oh no, they're too scared to climb trees anymore? Ri: Will all be OK. Ri: Before littlepon grow big, Riki fix littlepon to like trees again. Sa: Riki... You're a good father. Your littlepon are proud of you. Sa: Look at me, starting to well up... Ri: Riki always think about littlepon. Littlepon most important to Riki! Ri: Sharla make good mamapon too one day. Sa: I hope so too, Riki. I hope so too. ============================================================================= Riki's Crazy Crystal Plan Ri: Reyn look! Reyn look! Big ether crystal! Rn: Whoa! that IS big! Ri: Riki want crystal. Take home to village! Rn: How d'ya plan on doing that? (a) What you gonna do with it? (b) (a) ---- Ri: Reyn big and strong! Reyn use thick head to move it! Rn: Oi! Enough of this 'thick head' business! Ri: Hurry up, Reyn! Riki want it now! Rn: I told you, no! It's impossible. Ri: Boooooring! Ri: Riki take crystal! Have good plan! Rn: Go on then... What's the plan? (a1) I bet it's a stupid plan. (a2) (a1) ++++ Ri: Riki glad Reyn ask! Ri: Riki sell ether crystal and pay back money owe to villagers! Rn: You must've built up a fair bit of debt to need this thing. Ri: Riki not proud of self... Ri: Riki check amount yesterday. Same as 20,000 fish eggs. Rn: You've lost me. How much? Ri: Lots! So Riki take crystal! Ri: Sell whole crystal and become rich, rich, RICH! Rn: ...Good luck, man. (a2) ---- Ri: Riki show mean Reyn! Ri: Riki sell crystal for lots of money. Then Riki pay off debt! Rn: I knew it. Money's all you ever think about. Rn: Well you can count me out! Ri: Please, Reyn! Please please! Riki needs crystal! Now! Rn: Try asking Dunban instead. Rn: He'll pull this thing free for ya. He's good at that stuff. Ri: Really? Dundun help? Ri: He not look strong like big, dumb Reyn. Rn: Just ask him already! You're givin' me a headache! Ri: OK! Riki ask Dundun. Thank you, Reyn! Rn: (I really, REALLY hope Dunban doesn't kill me for this.) (b) ++++ Ri: Riki sell it in village and pay off big debt to villagers. Rn: Oh yeah, forget about your debt. You'll probably make a fortune. Ri: Riki will be rich, rich, RICH! Rn: Except...you can't sell it like that. It's not worth anything raw. Ri: Why not? Rn: You really are clueless. (b1) You've gotta refine it! (b2) (b1) ---- Rn: You've gotta put it in an ether furnace! Ri: Riki's furryness not enough? Rn: Not furryness, furnace! It's where you craft gems. Ri: Riki want ether furryness for village! Rn: They ain't cheap. Ri: How much money? Rn: Umm...let me think here... Rn: If you take that crystal and make enough gems, you could buy one. Ri: ... Rn: Don't get yourself down, Riki. Rn: If you get the other villagers to chip in, you'll buy one in no time. Rn: I might even help you out! (b2) ++++ Rn: The thing about crystals is, you've gotta put them in an ether furnace. Rn: Turn them into gems. That's how you make yourself some money. Ri: But village not have ether furryness. Ri: Only regular Nopon furryness. Rn: Oh yeah, that's right. No furnace. Ri: If village get ether furryness, good things happen to village? Rn: Good things'll happen all right! The whole place'll be rich. Rn: You can make a new Pollen Works and all the villagers'll be happy. Ri: A new pollen factory?! Riki want to eat pollen cakes! Ri: Pollen cakes for littlepon and Oka! Rn: Now that I think... Ain't ether furnaces really expensive? Rn: (Better not tell him, just in case.) ============================================================================= No Boys Allowed Sa: What a beautiful spring. Sa: Makes me want to jump right in! Me: It does look inviting. It would certainly cool us down. Sa: Are you all right, Melia? It looks as if the heat's getting to you. Me: You may be correct. (a) Why should the heat affect me?! (b) (a) ++++ Sa: Maybe you should take a rest. Me: That may be in order. I believe I am starting to...see things... Sa: That doesn't sound good! Sa: Maybe the forest air doesn't agree with you. Sa: It's very humid here. Me: Don't worry. I just need a minute to compose myself. Sa: Well, if you say so. Sa: Oh, I've got a great idea! Let's take a dip, just you and me! Sa: It'll cool us both down, and it might even make you feel better. Me: Are you sure?! (a1) No, that's a silly idea. (a2) (a1) ++++ Sa: Sure I'm sure! Sa: We won't get another chance like this, and the water's crystal clear! Me: But...I... Well... Sa: Didn't you used to go swimming outdoors when you were a kid? Me: No, never. Father would not have allowed something like that. Sa: Then why not make up for lost time? It's the perfect chance! Me: You are right. Let's go swimming, Sharla. Me: (I hope Shulk doesn't see me...) (a2) ---- Me: I will wait here, but feel free to go in yourself. Sa: This is just a wild guess, but... Melia, can you swim? Me: That is not why I refuse! Me: Have you any reason to doubt that I can swim? Sa: So it's just because you're embarrassed, then? Me: W-well... Sa: It's OK. No one's watching. Sa: I even brought swimsuits for us! Me: All right then... If you think it's safe... Sa: Great! Let's go swimming, Melia! Sa: We'll both keep a look out for Reyn and Shulk. *leaves* Me: W-wait, Sharla! Me: I feel certain this isn't going to end well... (b) Sa: Don't get your knickers in a twist! I'm just worried about you. Me: It is not as if I am...seeing double or anything... Sa: You don't have to put on such a brave face all the time. Sa: I'll bring you some water. Me: That would be...nice. Thank you. Sa: It's nothing. You've earned it. Sa: Just because I'm used to this heat doesn't mean everyone is. Me: I doubt you are used to it. (b1) How come you are used to it? (b2) (b1) ---- Sa: Think about it. I was born and raised in Colony 6. Me: I do not understand. Me: How does that make you accustomed to this heat? Sa: Oh, that's right. You wouldn't know. Sa: Underneath Colony 6 is a huge ether crystal mine. Sa: At the very deepest point, there's an ether river. It's hotter than hot. Me: An ether river? I have heard of this phenomenon. Me: When ether particles collide, it causes a chain reaction. Me: The heat produced by all those reactions can be extraordinary. Me: I did not realise you lived so close to such a place. Sa: Thinking back, the Central Pit was far hotter than Makna. Sa: I wish I could have shown you... Me: I may have had to decline in any case. Me: I don't think I'd have lasted a minute in there. Sa: Hehehe. Shame we'll never know! (b2) ++++ Sa: I'm from Colony 6, which is home to a gigantic ether crystal mine. Sa: An ether river runs through the very deepest point. Sa: It's scorching down there! Me: An ether river? I have heard of this phenomenon. Me: When ether particles collide, it causes a chain reaction. Me: The heat produced by all those reactions can be extraordinary. Me: I did not realise you lived so close to such a place. Sa: Looking back, this place is a cool breeze next to the Central Pit. Sa: I wish I could have shown you. Me: Perhaps you could show me some of your colony's other sights. Me: Ones that don't involve me fainting from heat exhaustion. Sa: I'd love to, but most of them were destroyed by the Mechon. Me: That's awful. Sa: The colony was built on top of the mine. Sa: And the mine's still there, more or less. Sa: With any luck, we can rebuild our home bigger and better than ever. Me: I am sure you will, Sharla. ============================================================================= Fallen Brethren Me: ... Sk: Something bothering you, Melia? Me: Forgive me, Shulk. I'm not myself today. Sk: That's OK. Hey, look at this! (a) What's wrong? (b) (a) ---- Sk: Check out this massive plant. Sk: The flora in this region really are something else. Sk: The people back home will never believe the stories! Me: They are...quite amazing, yes. Sk: Sorry, Melia. I guess you find this stuff kind of boring. Me: It's not that. Really, it isn't. Me: In fact, I think I feel a little better already listening to you. Sk: Are you OK? I'm worried... (a1) Oh, good! You do like plants! (a2) (a1) ++++ Sk: You can talk to me. If you want to, I mean. Me: ...All right. Me: Before we all met, it was at this spot I lost four of my brethren. Sk: Oh... I didn't realise. It was that Telethia, right? Me: Yes. Me: The four men had been my shield since I was little girl. Me: They were kind and considerate... and my friends. How I miss them... Sk: It sounds like you were close. Sk: Fighting for your life was a part of why they were, though. Me: Yes. I know that now. Me: But I shall never forget their sacrifice. Me: It will stay with me for as long as I live. (a2) ---- Me: Erm... I have to say, that's not exactly what I meant. Sk: Well...if you say so. Me: Hmph... Me: You're not going to ask me what is wrong? Sk: If you've cheered up, then I guess I don't need to know. Besides... Sk: I'm not too good at knowing when to ask and when to keep quiet. Me: Haha! I can tell. Me: But it's all right. Me: You've turned the gloomy cloud over my head into sunshine. Me: Just being here with you is enough for me. Thank you. (b) ++++ Me: ...It happened before I met you. Me: In this spot, my four protectors laid down their lives for me. Sk: Really? I didn't know... Sk: Was it when you fought the Telethia? Me: Yes. Until that day, the four of them accompanied me everywhere. Me: They were true friends to me. I grieve for them deeply... Sk: I bet you got on their nerves. (b1) They sound like great people. (b2) (b1) ---- Me: How can you say such a thing?! I was the perfect companion. Sk: *laughing* Haha. I'm sorry, I couldn't resist. Sk: I forgot you're way more grown up than someone like me. Me: You think I'm grown up? Me: It is possible I troubled them by acting beyond my years. Me: I found it hard hidden away in that stuffy Imperial Villa. Sk: Cooped up in there? I can imagine. Sk: But I'm sure tehy cared for you deeply, Melia. Don't feel bad. Me: I know they did. Me: And their sacrifice to save me will not be forgotten. That I promise. Me: I shall remember them forever. (b2) ++++ Me: They were indeed. Me: I have spent the bulk of my life hidden away in the Imperial Villa. Me: They took care of me for all that time. Sk: You must have been close. Sk: It's sad to lose people like that. Me: Shulk, will you help me? I want to give them a proper sending off. Sk: Of course. We'll do it together, you and me. Me: Thank you, Shulk. Me: *Turns her back to Shulk* (My fallen brethren, I promise to live my life to the fullest.) Me: (Look over me as I journey on.) ============================================================================= At the Pollen Works Ri: Achoo! Frontier Village's famous Pollen Works! Sk: Wow, Riki! Great machine! Is it all made from wood? Ri: Tut tut tut. Shulk say wrong word. This not machine! Sk: Why? Because of the Mechon? (a) Because it's not made of metal? (b) (a) ---- Ri: Mechon? What about Mechon? No Mechon in village... Sk: The Mechon are evil machines. I thought that might be the reason. Ri: Riki is Heropon! Mechon not scary to Heropon! Sk: OK, my mistake. I guess nothing scares Heropon Riki, huh? Ri: Is Shulk scared of Mechon? Sk: Yes, they're scary. (a1) Not a chance. (a2) (a1) ---- Ri: Shulk scared? Wow... Ri: Riki think Shulk not afraid because Shulk has Monado. Ri: Riki have big fear - Oka! Oka scariest in whole world. Sk: I know how you feel. When Fiora gets angry, I duck for cover. Sk: (Fiora... After what happened, of course the Mechon scare me.) Ri: Hello? Shulk? Eyes of Shulk get watery. Why? Sk: I'm OK... It's fine. I'm not crying. Ri: Shulk strong Hom Hom, but Riki know Shulk still young boy really. Ri: If Shulk want to cry, Riki lend Shulk his fur! Ri: Shulk cry boo-hoo lots and lots. Sk: Your fur? Thanks, Riki...I guess. Sk: So if I feel sad we can hug it out, right? A real Hom Hom hug! Ri: No, Shulk! No hug and cuddle. Ri: Cuddle for Melly only. Melly special! Ri: Riki not cuddle with guys. Sk: No fair! I wanna know how soft and cuddly your fur REALLY is! (a2) ++++ Sk: (It's not so much that I'm scared...) Ri: Wow! Shulk really brave! Ri: Riki's friends really brave. Riki proud. Ri: Everyone should be Heropon! Sk: (I just can't forget what happened to Fiora.) Sk: (And it's all the Mechon's fault...) Ri: Hello hello Shulk?! Riki being nice so listen to Riki! Ri: Is Shulk angry? Sk: Wh-what? Oh, sorry, Riki. I'm not angry at you. Sk: Listen. You're the bravest, toughest Heropon I've ever known. Ri: Shulk really think Riki brave? Shulk right! Riki is brave! Ri: He-ro-pon! He-ro-pon! He-ro-pon! Sk: Yes, Riki. Calm down. Sk: But you know what? I really will need you out there. Ri: Riki to the rescue! Count on Riki, Shulk! (b) ++++ Ri: Yay! Shulk right! Machine has metal. Nopon device use no metal, so not called machine. Sk: Now that I think, I haven't noticed a lot of metal in the village. Ri: Riki and Nopon at one with the forest. Ri: If forest not have metal, Nopon not use metal. Sk: That's very resourceful of you! (b1) Is ALL of it from the forest? (b2) (b1) ++++ Ri: Long, long time ago, Nopon make many, many things. Sk: I'm impressed. Sk: I'd love to know more about these pollen orbs, too. Sk: They light up and produce heat, but they never burn up. Ri: Yellow and blue orbs are safe to eat. Ri: But red ones...not so safe... Sk: I saw a red one by the lift. Sk: It looked tasty enough. Ri: Shulk want to eat red one? Ri: Riki not like red ones... Ri: Riki's stomach go thump thump, then squeal squeal. Ri: If Shulk eat and finish whole red one, Riki give Shulk medal! Sk: Sounds like a challenge to me! Ri: Riki no need red orb anyway. Oka make yummy food for Riki! Sk: Is that what makes you so bouncy? Sk: Maybe I need to eat more orbs... (b2) ---- Ri: Grr... Shulk too clever for Riki! Ri: Too much of big brain Hom Hom. Sk: I've seen a lot of Makna Forest. Sk: Some of these parts don't really look like they came from there. Ri: Bellows held together with veeery strong rope given by Bird People. Ri: And Hom Hom teach us use oil to make motion smooth. Ri: Device go round and round with only small amount of energy! Sk: That's fascinating, the way all the different techniques fit together. Ri: Nopon live all over Bionis. Here, there, everywhere. Ri: Nopon see new things, bring new things back to village. Sk: I love it. It's a great design. Sk: Mixing foreign and Nopon technology... It's brilliant! Sk: I'm really impressed, Riki. Ri: Riki not make it! But thank you! ============================================================================= A Mysterious Sanctuary Frontier Village Prophecy Hut Me: This place seems incredibly mysterious, Riki. Ri: Yes, this is mysterious sanctuary called Prophecy Hut. Me: So this is where the Nopon receive their prophecies. Ri: Melly right! Melly know how Nopon get prophecy? Me: Chief Dunga makes them up? (a) They're delivered from on high? (b) (a) ---- Ri: Shhhh! Melly not say that! Ri: If Dunga hear, Dunga biff bash Melly! Me: Wasn't it you who said these prophecies bring trouble? Me: You had to leave the village because of a prophecy. Ri: Hmm... Melly speak the truth... Ri: But if Riki stay in village, Riki still have lots and LOTS of debt. Ri: Why Melly come down to Frontier Village? Ri: Melly not like her bird house? Me: That's true in a sense. (a1) I like my home, but... (a2) (a1) ---- Ri: At Melly's house, are people very strict, like Oka? Ri: Maybe Melly not like bird food? Ri: Oka make bestest pollen soup in all of village! Melly come try! Me: I bet it tastes scrumptious, Riki. I'm very jealous of you. Me: My mother never makes my dinner. No ever. Ri: Melly Melly! Come to Riki's house! Ri: Oka make Melly lots and LOTS of yum yum food! Me: Right now, you mean? Does Oka know? What about the others? Ri: Oh yeah. Riki forget others. Ri: Hmm... After Riki and friends save the day, we eat together! Ri: Nopon party! Riki can't wait! (a2) ++++ Ri: Riki remember real reason! Melly come to beat Dinobeast. Ri: Melly is like Heropon for Bird People! Ri: Melly have upside down smile. What wrong Melly? Me: If I truly was a hero to my people, I would not have lost my brethren. Me: I am not worthy of that title, Riki. Ri: Riki know what! Melly, look up into sky! Ri: Melly see sparkle sparkle Eryth Sea? Me: I see it, Riki... It sparkles even more than usual. Ri: If Riki look up through Apex Lake, Riki can see fallen friends' faces. Ri: Sparkle is Nopon safe with Bionis. Ri: Chief tell Riki. Chief never wrong. Me: (Aizel... Hogard... Garan... Damil...) Ri: When Riki see old friends, Riki happy to see them. Ri: When Riki want to say hello, Riki always come here. Me: Riki... Thank you. I feel like I just said hello to my friends. (b) ++++ Ri: Wowee Melly! Melly know lots about Nopon! Me: Eryth Sea sits above the village. Me: Looking at it from here gives me a...strange feeling... Ri: Ah! Riki know! Ri: Riki figure it all out! Me: What have you figured out, Riki? Ri: I know who you think is extra especially special! Me: You mean...Shulk? (b1) You mean...you? (b2) (b1) ---- Ri: Aaah! Oh no! Ri: Riki has a rival! Me: When I left Alcamoth, I was not aiming to meet anyone like Shulk. Me: But when I met him, it felt like... it was destined. Ri: Wow... So destiny make Melly meet Shulk! Me: Not just Shulk. Me: Meeting all of you felt like fate. Me: Including you, Riki! Ri: Riki is Melly's destiny too? Yay! Woopee! (b2) ++++ Ri: Yes! Melly right! Ri: When Melly cuddle Riki, how Melly feel? Me: When I cuddle you... Me: It feels warm, and calming. Like I can forget about everything! Ri: Riki happy happy! Ri: That's why Riki become Heropon! To be cuddled by Melly! Me: So that's why. I can see it now... Ri: Melly and Riki both love cuddle! Ri: Melly can stroke Riki's fur and cuddle Riki anytime! Me: That's very kind of you, Riki. Me: Make sure you look after your fur! ============================================================================= A Day Like Any Other Fi: Why do tranquil places like this bring back so many memories? Me: Perhaps the quiet clears the head. Me: So what's on your mind, Fiora? Let me guess... Shulk? Fi: Well...sort of, but not just him. Maybe I shouldn't tell you this... Me: I'm very interested to know. Fi: You are? (a) OK. I'll tell you. (b) (a) ---- Fi: I thought you'd be the last person to listen to me go on about this. Me: No, it's OK. Really. I'd love to hear about it. Do tell. Fi: If you're sure, then here I go. Fi: Well, there's a wonderful park near my home. I do miss it... Fi: Once, I made lunch for Shulk and me, and we had a picnic there. Fi: That's what popped into my head. Fi: It's just...those dear memories... they make me feel sad now. Fi: Sounds silly, doesn't it? I know. I don't know what's wrong with me. Me: You sound more down than when Riki skips a meal. Fi: It's quite tragic. (a1) You don't mince words! (a2) (a1) ++++ Me: Hold on, Fiora. Let me finish. Me: Being stuck in the past is no good, but I'll be honest... Me: I don't think that will be a problem for you. Fi: Meaning what exactly? Me: I mean...you're stronger than most. Fi: That almost sounded like a compliment! Me: And why not? You're always ready to face what's coming ahead. Me: In love, it's hard to know when to hold back and when to act. Me: But now is the time to accept your feelings and not look back. Fi: I guess you're right. Fi: You know, I get down in the dumps far too easily. Fi: I wish I could be more like you. Me: We're not that different, Fiora. Me: We come from different places, but we've got a lot in common. Me: My feelings get the better of me. Especially when it comes to boys. Fi: Next time, maybe I can be the one lending a shoulder. Me: Perhaps! And for now, look after yourself, Fiora. Me: Keep your energy up. Fi: Thanks, Melia. Fi: I'm feeling much better already! (a2) ---- Me: I can't lie to you, Fiora. Fi: Honestly speaking, though, I like that about you. Me: Give me a moment to finish. Me: Being stuck in the past is no good. But that won't happen to you. Fi: You think I'll be all right? It's hard to know myself... Me: And that naivety is no bad thing. Me: I want you to remember this: Me: You are strong, Fiora. And you can overcome anything. Fi: Wow! When you say that, it's so... commanding! Fi: I could really believe it! Me: Good. In fact, you're almost too strong some of the time. Me: You could do with showing your softer side more often. Fi: Are you sure? Fi: You never show anyone your softer side. Me: Oh...well, I... Me: Hey, wait just one moment! We're talking about you! Me: Anyway, I'm sure you get my point. Fi: I do. Thank you. Fi: And I'm glad you were willing to be so honest with me! (b) ++++ Fi: There's this wonderful park near my home. I do miss it... Fi: Once, I made lunch for Shulk and me, and we had a picnic there. Me: You don't say... Anything else you fancy boasting about? Me: Your future? Children? Living happily ever after? Fi: I didn't mean to boast... Fi: It's just that day... I'm always remembering it. I don't know why. Me: Did anything special happen? Fi: No, nothing in particular. (b1) Let me think... (b2) (b1) ++++ Fi: It was a day like any other. Fi: The sun was shining, birds were singing, there was a light breeze... Me: Sounds like a lovely day. Fi: When we were little, we used to run around that park together. Fi: I was just fast enough that Shulk couldn't catch me! Me: Shulk never left your side, even back then. I admit, I'm jealous. Me: I wasn't allowed such friends, nor any trips to nearby parks. Fi: But now you can do all of that! Fi: If you like, we can go together. Just you and me. Me: That's a nice idea. I'd love that. It would mean a lot to me. Me: Thank you, Fiora. Despite it all, I'm glad we met. Fi: Me too, Melia! Fi: I hope we can stay friends for a long time to come. Fi: I won't be the coolest friend... I mean...looking like this... Me: I don't care about that, Fiora. All that matters is that you're my friend! (b2) ---- Fi: I remember it being the same as any other day. Fi: There was me, and Shulk... And we had lunch. That's it. Me: If that's your idea of any other day, I'm quite jealous, Fiora. Fi: Actually... Shulk looked really, really happy that day. Fi: More than he usually does. Fi: That must be why it's one of my favourite memories! Me: I have a memory that I cherish. Mother and I eating at the villa. Fi: That sounds wonderful, Melia! Me: I can recall no better time in my life. Me: My mother's smile was radiant... I remember it like yesterday. Fi: Will we ever have happy times like those again? Me: We will, Fiora. I promise. Me: Believe in Shulk. He'll make it happen for you. Fi: Melia... Fi: I'm sure you're right. Thank you. ============================================================================= Life's Hard for a Heropon Ri: Riki not want leave home again! Dd: Ready to leave us already? Dd: You can stay here. No one will mind. Ri: Dundun not sad Riki leave? Two Heropon better than one! Dd: I'll be fine without you, but... I'm not sure about the others. Ri: Shulk will miss Riki. Reyn too. Riki's friends all sad! Ri: Riki think Dundun sad too! Dd: I'm afraid not, Riki. (a) I'll shed a tear for you. (b) (a) ---- Ri: Not fair! Dundun should cry! Ri: Riki not like Dundun anymore. Dd: You can whinge all you like, Riki. Dd: Whoever wishes to leave is welcome. No argument here. Ri: Anyone can leave? Ri: Dundun not sound like other Hom Hom. Dd: We live in times of war. Dd: If I shed a tear for every lost companion, I'd cry for eternity. Dd: Crying is a luxury I cannot afford. Life must go on, Riki. Ri: Dundun... Dd: If I stopped to mourn the departed, others would be left vulnerable. Dd: I say, if you have time to mourn, then you have time to fight. Dd: That is my way. Dd: You think less of me now? (a1) It could be your way too! (a2) (a1) ---- Ri: Mmm...no. Riki not think that. Ri: But Riki not understand. Riki sad if Dundun leave. Ri: Why Dundun not sad if Riki say bye-bye? Dd: I am a man of war, Riki. Dd: I have made myself numb to many Homs emotions. Ri: No. Riki think Dundun wrong. Ri: Reason Dundun not sad because he is Hom Hom hero. Ri: Be big and strong and brave so can fight more! Riki understand! Dd: Riki... Ri: Riki not want Dundun to be sad. Ri: So when Riki in trouble, Dundun can come to rescue! Dd: I...appreciate your enthusiasm. Dd: But shouldn't you be getting yourself out of trouble? Dd: You're a grown Nopon. A father. You can't be relying on me. Ri: No! Dundun save Riki! Ri: Dundun like father to Fiora! Same as Riki! Save each other! (a2) ++++ Ri: Yes! Riki try Dundun's way! Riki become better Heropon! Dd: You think it will you [sic] make you into a better hero? Ri: Anyone can leak from eyes. Ri: But being there for loved ones is much harder. Ri: With strong heart and strong mind, everyone can be Heropon. Dd: Amazing. I never thought I'd be taking lessons from you. Ri: Do not be sad for Riki, Dundun. Ri: Riki want Dundun to honour him by filling his place in battle! Ri: OK! Dundun practise tomorrow! Ri: Riki want Dundun to fight enough for missing Riki too! Dd: You don't ask for much, do you? Dd: But it's quite all right. Dd: Training or no training, I'll more than make up for your absence. Ri: No no! Ri: Dundun not take Riki's place until learn how to make pollen cakes! Ri: Must start practise now! (b) ++++ Ri: Dundun tell the truth? Ri: Wooow. Dundun can cry? Ri: No! Riki not want Dundun to cry! Dd: I thought you did want me to cry? Ri: No, not cry! Ri: If Riki going to leave then Riki want Dundun beg him to stay! Ri: Dundun can beg now. Dd: Beg? You are delusional, Riki. Dd: Besides, it's inevitable that we'll each go our own ways eventually. Ri: Really? Ohhh no. Not good... Ri: Riki want to stay with friends but want family to come with too! Ri: Dundun think Riki selfish? Dd: Yes, you're completely selfish. (b1) Not at all. (b2) (b1) ---- Ri: Riki not like Dundun anymore! Dd: You might like that arrangement, but what about Oka and the kids? Dd: Oka has her own life here in the village. Your kids have friends. Ri: B-b-but... Dd: Do you really think you can force them [to] give it all up? Dd: Just because you want to? Ri: Mmm... Dundun right. Riki wrong this time. Ri: Riki understands now... Dd: Cheer up, my friend. Dd: We'll visit you from time to time. And you'll enjoy it too. (b2) ++++ Ri: Riki not selfish. Thank you. Ri: But Riki want cake and eat it, so Riki figured out the best way. Dd: Come on then, out with it. Ri: Riki, Oka and littlepon all move to Dundun's house. Ri: Then, in future, Fiora and Shulk come too! Ri: Reyn can come too, sometimes. If Melly and Sharla come... Ri: Riki and friends have big party! Dd: Let me get back to you on that. Dd: My house is fairly small, and you wouldn't like the beds. Dd: Let's agree to go back to our own homes for now, OK? Ri: Riki like Riki's idea better. Dundun should listen more... Ri: Oh! Riki know! Dundun build bigger house! Dd: Let me guess, you can get me a good loan to pay for the work? Ri: Wait, Dundun try to be funny. Riki not like Dundun's joke! Ri: Riki invite everyone back to Dundun's house! This Riki's joke! ============================================================================= Reawakened Memories Sa: I heard it's Nopon custom to jump from here. Sa: To prove your love and devotion. Fi: From all the way up here? Wooow. A bit high, isn't it? Sa: A bit. Sa: But you know someone who's leapt from an even greater height. Fi: You mean...Shulk? (a) You mean...Reyn? (b) (a) ++++ Sa: I think I saw a smile there! Sa: Yeah. When the fortress exploded, he didn't hesitate for a second. Sa: He jumped to save his sweet Fiora. Fi: I only remember bits and pieces. Fi: I was so afraid. But when I woke up, there was Shulk by my side. Fi: I suddenly felt...safe...and warm. Sa: Hehehe. Sounds like you two get along very well indeed! Fi: Wh-what do you mean? Fi: I get along well with everyone! You, Reyn, my brother... Sa: I get it. Playing it close to your chest. Sa: But I know what happened... after you woke up. Sa: Reyn told me. Sa: You were all nervous. Didn't know whether to hold hands or not. Fi: I'm not telling. (a1) Reyn said that? (a2) (a1) ---- Sa: You're a sneaky one, you! Sa: But it's OK! I know how nice it can be keeping these little secrets. Fi: Sharla...I... Sa: Hold it there, missy! Sa: You were about to spoil the mood by apologising for no reason. Fi: How do you do that? Nothing gets past you at all! Sa: Haha! Trust me, Gadolt had it much worse than you ever will. Sa: But if you need any help, don't hesitate to ask big-sis Sharla. Sa: Although Dunban strikes me as the type who'd know a lot about this. Fi: Dunban? Even Riki knows more about relationships than him! Sa: Haha. Riki is married after all. So he's got one up on both of us. (a2) ++++ Sa: Not just him. Dunban had plenty to say as well. Fi: Reyn and Dunban? They need to take a look in the mirror. Fi: I'm sure they have bigger things to worry about than my love life! Sa: It's natural, Fiora. We're all anxious for you and Shulk. Sa: Follow your heart. Just remember to be careful. Sa: First love can end in tears! Fi: Not you too, Sharla? Fi: I've had enough of everyone sticking their nose in my business. Sa: We only want the best for you. Sa: Don't look back on this time with regret. Go get your man, Fiora! (b) ---- Sa: Reyn didn't jump! He fell, and fell hard. Sa: I'm talking about Shulk. You know, the one you fancy... Sa: When the fortress collapsed, he jumped straight off. Sa: He spared no thought for himself. All he cared about was saving you! Fi: But it's the same with you and Reyn, isn't it? He kept you safe. Fi: We talked about it once. Fi: I think his exact words were 'I saved her! It was me!' Sa: Oh dear. That boy doesn't shut up. Fi: He seemed happy with himself. (b1) Kidding! He didn't say that. (b2) (b1) ++++ Sa: Sounds like Reyn all right. Sa: If it was just between you and him then I guess it's OK. Fi: What do you mean? Sa: You remember how Reyn made you that promise? Sa: That he'd protect Shulk no matter what happened. Sa: Now Shulk is a stronger person, Reyn is feeling a little inadequate. Fi: I didn't realise... Fi: So that was all about showing me he could protect someone. You. Sa: Or it was just Reyn being a dolt. No need for any big leaps of logic! (b2) ---- Sa: Phew! I guess even Reyn isn't that stupid. Sa: Even he knows we survived because we fell into the water. Fi: You could have hurt yourself even falling into the sea. Fi: But no, Reyn didn't say a thing. I know he really likes you though! Sa: How about we concentrate on you first and me later. Ok? Fi: No fair, Sharla! I shared with you! Fi: Next time we have dinner, you're going to tell me everything! Sa: Well...OK. I can't avoid it forever. But you're buying, Fiora! ============================================================================= True Natures Me: This flower is much like one that used to grow by Eryth Sea. Dd: Used to? You mean it doesn't anymore? Me: Alas, the breed was wiped out. None like this grow there anymore. Me: But its seeds must have dispersed all the way here and taken root. Me: Isn't nature beautiful? Dd: I can see you love flowers, Melia. Me: I do adore them. Me: I like nothing more than finding new species on our travels. Me: How about you, Dunban? Do you like flowers? Dd: Oh...yes, I like them. (a) I'll be honest... Not really. (b) (a) ---- Me: You do? This is...surprising. Me: I didn't get that impression from you at all. Dd: Haha. And you think it's wise to judge a book by its cover? Me: That was not my intention. Me: It's just that I pride myself on being a good judge of character. Dd: Fair enough. Well, it just so happens that you're right! Dd: Flowers have never interested me. The reason is... Dd: One day they wither and die. (a1) Their pungent smell. (a2) (a1) ++++ Me: I see. Flowers are transient, so it is hard to get attached to them. Me: As with soldiers in battle, death is always knocking. Dd: You are very wise, Melia. Dd: To put it another way, I feel that loving a single flower is wrong. Dd: If we concentrate on one flower, the rest of the garden may be lost. Dd: The water and the soil, the land and the skies... Dd: Which is most important, I do not know. So I give my attention to all. Dd: I started thinking about it like that in my younger days. Me: I'd never considered it from that perspective before. Me: You see things very differently to me. It is most intriguing. Dd: I intrigue you now? Dd: I'll take that as a compliment. Me: You are welcome. Me: I think I know the perfect flower for you. The renowned Stardrop! Me: None can deny its beauty. Me: All other flowers bow down and wilt at its magnificence. Dd: Lovely as it sounds, I'll have to pass. Dd: But it's a present, I won't say no. But only because it's you, Melia. (a2) ---- Me: You do not like their smell? Me: Certainly, some flowers have pungent smells, but not all. Dd: I know what I like, and that doesn't include flowers. Dd: A room's natural smell can be overwhelmed by a flower's odour. Dd: The natural smell of the earth and trees is completely lost. Me: Is that not a contradiction? Flowers are a part of nature. Me: I am surprised at you, Dunban. Dd: You're a sharp one, Melia. I guess you've got me there. (b) ++++ Me: I don't get the impression that you dislike them all that strongly. Dd: Haha. Maybe it's just that you like them so strongly? Dd: You can't imagine that someone might not like flowers at all. Me: That's not what I meant. It's just... Me: If you hated flowers, you wouldn't tread so carefully around them. Dd: I am beaten by your powers of observation. Me: I can always see a person's true nature from how they act in public. Me: I've studied you all ever since we met. Dd: Then tell me about Shulk. (b1) As all wise rulers do. (b2) (b1) ---- Me: Why Shulk? We were talking about you. Dd: Shulk is a strange one. He plays with junk, you know? Dd: Yet you trust him implicitly. I just want to know why. Me: It is not just Shulk. I trust all of you. Dd: And I appreciate it, Melia. Dd: Even though I know I am second to another... Me: How dare you! Me: I would never suggest that Shulk is first in my estimation! Dd: I believe you just did. Me: Enough of this conversation! * Me: You are not second, third or fourth. You are last! * (b2) ++++ Me: A ruler must know his people. Me: My father and brother taught me much about imperial duties. Me: I never thought I would actually need those lessons... Me: But I will certainly need them now. Me: However, their lessons reached far beyond the particulars of ruling. Me: I learnt how to handle myself and communicate well with people. Dd: Maybe you need a few more of these lessons... Me: Are you saying I lack people skills? Dd: You only seem yourself around Riki and Shulk, if I might say. Dd: I wish you'd open up to the rest of us a bit more. Dd: We've all been through so much together on the battlefield. Me: Deep down I know that you are right. Me: Thank you, Dunban, for your frank comments. Me: I will do my best to open up more. Dd: (I didn't mean for her to treat it quite so formally...but oh well!) ============================================================================= Flowers of the Eryth Sea Ri: These flowers smell like passion! Riki feel different! Ri: Feel passionate! Sa: P-passionate?! Are you feeling all right, Riki? Ri: Riki love flowers! Sa: You are getting on a bit. (a) I like flowers too. (b) (a) ---- Ri: Sharla... That is called 'ageism'! Not good, Sharla! Sa: I...apologise, Riki. I didn't mean to say that out loud. Ri: Nopon all love flowers! Ri: Riki and Nopon eat them! Sa: Wait, you eat them? So, erm... Sa: You wouldn't want them as a gift to put on the mantlepiece [sic]? Ri: No! Only Nopon women like flower as gift. Ri: Riki pick own flowers. If Riki can't eat it, Riki not interested! Sa: Somehow I knew you'd say that. Sa: You especially like eating pollen food, right? Sa: I heard you have a pollen factory that makes cakes in your village. Ri: Riki love eating pollen cakes! Sharla want pollen cakes? Sa: Me? Sa: I think I'll pass. Thanks. (a1) I'd like to try one. (a2) (a1) ---- Sa: They're called pollen cakes, but really anything could be in them. Ri: Sharla not nice! Pollen is nature's food! Ri: No additives or preservatives! Never ever ever! Sa: (But what if I turn yellow or something?) Sa: Well, I'm sorry, Riki. I didn't mean to offend you. Sa: I'll try one later. Ri: Riki think Sharla lying! Sa: Well you're wrong! Sa: I'll have one when we get back. Just watch me! (a2) ++++ Sa: They're those strange little cakes, right? All shiny and glowing... Sa: Yes, I'd...love to try one. Ri: OK! Riki and Sharla go eat now! Sa: What, right now?! Oh, sorry, Riki. I just remembered. Sa: I've decided to give up all... yellow-coloured foods. Sa: It's a girl thing. You wouldn't understand. Ri: No problem, Sharla! Pollen cakes come all different colours! Sa: Any colour is a no-no. Sa: It has to have no colour at all! Sa: But you know what? I heard Reyn say he wanted to try one! Sa: I'll go get him now. Wait here. Ri: Riki wait here, but Sharla must hurry! (b) ++++ Ri: Sharla like them too? Flowers taste yum yum, no? Sa: Oh, you eat them? Ri: Yes! But also give to wifeypon. It Nopon custom. Ri: Riki bring flowers home, Oka hang them on walls. Sa: So there's more to you than food after all! Sa: You're a good husband. Ri: Riki not that good a husband! Sa: These flowers are such a lovely shade of blue, you know. Sa: I think they would suit Melia. Sa: How about you pick one for her? It could be a present. Ri: Give to Melly?! Sa: She'd be so happy! (b1) Wait a moment, Riki! (b2) (b1) ++++ Ri: Sharla have good idea! Ri: Riki want to do good for Melly! Sa: That girl's got her head screwed on right, but it can't be easy. Sa: She's so uptight. I wish she'd let loose once in a while. Ri: Riki think the same. Melly nice Bird Lady... Sa: Hey, why don't I help you? Sa: I could look for flowers with you. I think I know what she'd like! Ri: Yay! Riki pick flowers with Sharla! Melly will be happy happy! (b2) ---- Sa: Now, Riki... I can see the glint in your eye! Sa: Don't you go making Oka jealous! Ri: Riki not make Oka more jealous! Ri: Oka already jealous because friends take Riki away from her! Sa: So you'd rather be at home with Oka? Ri: ... Sa: Riki! Sa: The answer is 'Yes'! Ri: Riki know Melly is Bird Lady... Ri: So Riki and Melly will only ever be good friends. Riki love Oka. Sa: (You're a good Nopon, Riki.) Sa: Well then, I guess you're in the clear! Sa: You know, Melia really does think of you as a dear friend. Ri: Riki want to make Melly proud. Riki show Melly true Heropon! Sa: I'm sure you will. Just don't forget you're doing all this for Oka! ============================================================================= Riki Have Question Ri: Ahhhh, beauuuutiful! See, Fiora, see! Fi: I see it, Riki. It's gorgeous. You can see all the way to Mechonis. Ri: Fiora? Riki have question. Fi: Will I be able to answer this? (a) What is it, Riki? (b) (a) ---- Fi: I want to be prepared in case it's a really difficult one. Ri: Maybe Riki not ask question. Fi: That could be for the best. Fi: I might look like a Machina, but I'm not like Miqol or Linada. Fi: I don't have their wisdom. Ri: Machine people different! Ri: Riki and Fiora not born thousands of years ago! Ri: Old people always know more. Fi: I guess you're right, Riki. Fi: How old do you think they are, anyway? Ri: Miqol six thousand years old! Ri: Linada not tell age to Riki. Fi: Teehee! Now, Riki... You know you're not to ask a lady for her age. Ri: Fiora like Machina now. How long will Fiora live? Fi: Forever and ever. (a1) I don't really know. (a2) (a1) ++++ Fi: Maybe with this body I can live for thousands of years too. Ri: Wooow! One thousand years is... one with three zeros at the end! Fi: I think I might get a little lonely. Fi: Everyone will have died. Dunban, you, the others... Fi: (And then there's Shulk...) Ri: Ah! Riki know Fiora thinking about Shulk just now! Fi: Wh-what are you talking about?* Ri: Tut tut tut! Riki know truth. Ri: But Fiora wrong to choose Shulk and not Heropon Riki. Riki best! Fi: Oh Riki, that's sweet. Fi: But what were you going to ask me about? Ri: Mmm... Riki think, Riki think... Riki forget! Fi: You're a funny one, Riki. I guess it wasn't that important. Fi: But you made me smile, so thank you, Riki. Ri: Why Fiora say thank you? Riki do something nice? Ri: Riki like Fiora's happy face so no complaining from Riki! (a2) ---- Fi: And this body is half Homs after all... And... Ri: What wrong Fiora? Fi: Nothing, Riki. It's nothing. Fi: I'm OK being like this. I don't need to live forever. Fi: And I wouldn't want to outlive all my friends. I'd be very lonely. Ri: Fiora? Fiora sad about machine body? Ri: If machine body do bad things, remember tell Riki. Fi: That's sweet, Riki. Thank you. I'll remember. Fi: What did you want to ask me? Did something happen? Ri: Hmm... Riki thinking... Ri: Riki worry about Fiora so Riki forget question! Fi: Teehee. Oh, never mind, Riki. Fi: Let me know if it comes back to you, OK? (b) ++++ Ri: Fiora? Please tell Riki. What is behind Mechonis? Fi: Behind Mechonis? I don't know... Fi: Just the sea and the sky, I guess. At least that's what I've been told. Ri: Maybe Fiora right... Fi: Something wrong, Riki? Ri: Heropon Riki want to travel round whole would after fighting finish! Fi: You do? Wow! (b1) Why bother? (b2) (b1) ++++ Fi: That's an amazing idea, Riki! Fi: I bet Shulk and Reyn are planning to just sit around doing nothing. Fi: (And shulk needs to get his act together in more ways than one...) Ri: Riki amazing? Yes, Riki amazing! Ri: Shulk and Reyn are Riki's friends, but Riki cleverest of all! Fi: If you like! Fi: Hmm... I wonder if there's really anything out there to discover... Fi: If there is, it would be nice to see it...one day. Ri: Not one day! Sooner! Soon day! Fiora should be more excited! Fi: I'm excited, Riki. It's just...will we really ever find anywhere else? Fi: If we do, will it be like this place? Fi: Or will it be free of fighting and squabbling? Fi: Imagine a place where everyone could live in peace and harmony... Ri: Not need new place for that, Fiora! Make Bionis into peaceful world. Ri: That is Riki and friends' duty! Fi: Good point, Riki! You're completely right! Fi: Why didn't I think of that before? You've really opened my eyes! Ri: Opening eye no problem for Heropon Riki! Ri: Friends make world better place together! Fi: I can't wait! Fi: Lead the way, O Heropon. We'll all be right behind you. (b2) ---- Fi: You'll be a wrinkled old geezer before you find anything. Ri: Riki not old yet! Not grumble enough! Fi: Listen... I spoke to a Machina navigator once. Fi: He said that even if you travel at the speed of light for 100 years... Fi: You won't find a speck of land. Ri: But Riki can't fly at speed of light. That not fair! Fi: And you probably won't live to be 100 years old. Fi: But I guess since I'm half Machina, I'll outlive you all. Ri: That not fair either, Fiora! Ri: Fiora get back other half of Hom Hom body! Fi: That's my dream, Riki. Ri: Fiora not give up dream! Ri: Machina medicine people give back body to Fiora if Fiora ask! Ri: Then Fiora let Riki go travel! Fi: In that case, it's settled! Fi: Heropon Riki becomes Pilgripon! No? No good? Forget I said it... ============================================================================= A Gift for a Loved One Sa: Dunban? You look happy. I know! You're getting married! Dd: And to whom exactly? Sa: All right, that was just a wild guess. What's up? Dd: Fiora gave me the most remarkable present. Sa: Oh, is that what's in your hand? Dd: It is indeed. It's a rare insect, only found around Colony 9. Dd: Take a closer look if you like. Sa: (Oooh. I hate creepy-crawlies!) Sa: I think I'm fine right here. (a) I-I'd love to, thank you... (b) (a) ---- Sa: Sorry, but I hate bugs. Eww... They make my skin crawl... Dd: All right then. Not to worry. Sorry I asked. Sa: So you're telling me Fiora doesn't mind them at all? Dd: Actually, she likes them just as much as you do. Dd: I once put one in her pocket, as a present, and she went berserk. Sa: Dunban? Newsflash here... No one likes bugs in their clothes! Dd: I realised that the hard way. Dd: Things were...more innocent then. Takes me back, you know? Sa: To when you were a weirdo. (a1) I completely get what you mean. (a2) (a1) ---- Dd: Hey! Collecting bugs is a great hobby! Dd: What about Juju? I bet he collects bugs. Sa: Juju's more into animals. Bugs aren't his thing. Sa: One day he brought home a baby Hox. Sa: Otharon was so mad... Dd: Ah, yes. Those critters might look innocent... Dd: But look the other way and they'll have your finger. Sa: The other big nuisance with Juju is vegetables. Sa: He can't stand them. I've never got him to eat the things. Dd: Same as Shulk. His diet's not healthy at all. Sa: I've seen him eat vegetables. Sa: Fiora usually cooks vegetables and I've seen him eat the lot. Dd: He's too embarrassed to tell her he doesn't like them. Sa: Haha. Those two... They must have been a handful! Dd: They were and they still are. Dd: I'm Fiora's guardian AND I have to keep an eye on Shulk. Sa: You've got a lot on your plate... but you take good care of them. (a2) ++++ Sa: Hey, doesn't Reyn like bugs? Dd: I think he likes most things. He's a bit of an animal lover too. Dd: I think I heard Melia is as well, actually. Sa: She is? How surprising! Sa: I'd love to know more about her tastes. What about...erm... Sa: Fruit! Does she like fruit? Dd: Nope, she definitely doesn't like fruit. She told me so herself. Dd: She might be like me. I don't like sweet things at all really. Sa: That's a shame. I love fruit. Sa: Everyone's different, I guess. Dd: And it's good to learn things about each other, right? Sa: It is. Thanks, Dunban. Sa: I think I might give Reyn some fruit as a present. Sa: You think he'd like it? Dd: So that's who you wanted to find out about?! Dd: Well... Reyn likes basically everything, so you can't go wrong! (b) ++++ Sa: Well, er... It does look unusual. We don't get those at Colony 6. Dd: She remembered the exact type I like. Sa: Ah, no wonder you're beaming! Dd: Wouldn't you be if someone gave you something you liked? Sa: Yes, getting presents always feels nice...if it's something I like! Dd: Yeah, it can be annoying to get something you have no use for. Dd: Like...fruit. I don't like fruit. Dd: If someone gave me a fruit, I wouldn't know what to do with it. Sa: But the thought is still nice. (b1) Like me and bugs! (b2) (b1) ++++ Dd: That's very true. But some people are particularly clueless... Dd: The other day Shulk gave Riki an old machine part, for instance. Sa: He did? What was he thinking? Sa: Everyone knows if it's not food, Riki's not going to be interested. Dd: I was there. Poor Riki. He was so confused. Dd: I just stood and laughed. Sa: Shulk's a bit slow on the uptake. Sa: Maybe he'll get the hang of these things someday. Dd: He certainly needs...refining. Dd: He hasn't been giving Fiora anything ridiculous, has he? Sa: I hope not. If he did, Fiora would give him an earful. Sa: You really worry about those two, don't you? Dd: Haha. That I do, Sharla. Dd: (Because Shulk's the one to marry Fiora. I know it.) Sa: Hello? Bionis to Dunban? Dd: Oh. Sorry, Sharla. Dd: I was thinking about...a present to give Fiora in return. Dd: Any ideas? (b2) ---- Dd: Really? You don't like bugs? Dd: You should have said so earlier! I wouldn't have showed it to you. Sa: It's all right. I'll live! Sa: But in case it helps, Melia's not too keen on them either. Dd: Then I'll keep it out of sight when I'm around her. Sa: What are you going to give Fiora in return? Any ideas? Dd: Hmm... I was thinking... Dd: Flowers, maybe? I'm struggling for ideas, to be honest. Sa: Well, how about an exotic food? Fiora loves to cook. Sa: She['s] always looking to try new recipes for Shulk. Dd: That might be a good idea. Thank you, Sharla. Sa: Then we'd better get looking! How about we start around here? Dd: Agreed. Lead on! ============================================================================= Fish Fly! Fish Fly! Rn: Oi, Riki! What you up to? Ri: Reyn see! Lots of fish! Ri: Fish with wings jump out of water! See! Rn: Hahaha. You must be joking! Rn: There's no such thing as fish with wings. You've lost the plot! Ri: But Riki just see one! (a) Stop teasing Riki! (b) (a) ++++ Ri: See, see! Fish fly! Rn: Oh yeah. I saw that. So fish can really fly?! Ri: Riki not see before eitehr. Ri: Village and forest not have flying fish. Rn: Right then! Only one thing for it. We catch one and eat it! Ri: Silly, silly Reyn! (a1) Riki want five for himself! (a2) (a1) ---- Rn: What? We ain't allowed or something? Ri: Flying fish special. It sacred! Reyn eat fish then be cursed! Rn: Just looks like any old fish. I reckon it'll taste great. Ri: Tut tut tut. Reyn not understand. Reyn see Riki has wings, no? Ri: Creatures with wings are special. Rn: I getcha. So it's like eating your own kind. Ri: Gross, Reyn! But yes... Rn: Sorry, man. Didn't mean to scare. Rn: Its [sic] all right, though. We've got loads of tasty fish back home. Ri: Umm...Reyn? Riki hungry now... Rn: Come on, then! I'll take you. Rn: We'll have to get my fishing stuff. Rn: Whoever catches the most fish wins! Ri: You are on, Reyn! Riki good at fishing! (a2) ++++ Rn: My time has come! I will show all of Bionis my fishing skills! Ri: Ah! No! * Rn: What's the matter with you?! Ri: Riki remember that creatures with wings are special to Nopon. Ri: If Riki eat flying fish, Riki get in trouble! Rn: Don't worry about it. No one's looking. Ri: No, no, no! Dunga will get mad! But...Riki's stomach make noise... Rn: I won't tell anyone. Rn: But that means you've gotta fish twice as hard as me. Ri: Riki not happy, but food is most important to Riki. Ri: Riki get all fish before Reyn! Rn: I knew it. When food's around you're suddenly up for it! (b) ---- Ri: Reyn has lost his plot! Reyn silly Hom Hom! Rn: Calm down, Riki. Don't get so defensive. Ri: Riki not feel nice when Reyn make fun of Riki. Rn: Looking at the water again, I can see...something like that. Ri: See! Riki told Reyn truth! Ri: Eryth Sea has lots and lots of strange fish swimming. Rn: I guess you were right. (b1) You know what's stranger? (b2) (b1) ++++ Rn: They even got hovering rocks in this place. I'll believe anything. Ri: Riki want to visit many other strange places. See all of Bionis! Ri: Riki and friends can see lots and lots of strange creatures together. Rn: Sounds like a plan, Riki. And just think of all the food to eat! Ri: Reyn's eyes bigger than his great big fat stomach! Rn: Take a look at yourself, lard ball. Ri: Riki want to finish fighting and go travelling with Reyn, as friends! Rn: Friends, huh? I'll think about that one. Rn: But I wouldn't mind seeing a bit of Bionis either. (b2) ---- Rn: How on Bionis are you forty?! Rn: That means you're like...an old man! Ri: Riki not old man! Nopon and Hom Hom different! Rn: But the Nopon I met at Colony 9 acted their age. Why not you? Ri: Reyn should act his age! Five! Reyn a big baby like littlepon! Rn: Why you little... I'm gonna... Oh, I give up. What's the point? Ri: Riki older than Reyn so Reyn should respect Riki! Rn: OK, old man. I'll give it a go. You haven't got long left anyway... ============================================================================= Brother and Sister Fi: Alcamoth is a wonderful city. Don't you think, Dunban? Dd: It is indeed. Fi: My heart belongs in Colony 9, but I'd love to live here someday. Dd: It feels a little...spacious for you. Fi: What are you talking about? I like big places! Dd: But you're bad with directions. (a) I could get used to it too. (b) (a) ---- Fi: What did you just say?! Dd: Remember when you were little? You were constantly getting lost. Fi: That was when I was little! Why'd you bring that up, anyway? Dd: Sorry, Fiora. Fi: Do you really think I'm that bad at finding my way around? Dd: Of course! Don't you remember? (a1) No, I take it back. (a2) (a1) ---- Dd: I waited for you on Tephra Hill that time. Dd: And somehow you got lost by the waterfront. Fi: That was on purpose, Dunban! Dd: You meant to get lost?! Fi: Of course I meant to get lost! Fi: But you needn't worry anymore. Now I have a radar built in. Dd: ... Fi: Did I say something wrong? Dd: No... I'm fine... Dd: It's...amazing, isn't it? This Machina technology... Fi: It's sooooo cool, Dunban! Dd: (I mustn't let her see me getting upset...) (a2) ++++ Fi: We should try an experiment! Dd: An experiment...? Fi: You see, this new body I have has a tracking radar built in. Fi: I'll never get lost now! Dd: ... Fi: Wherever you go in this place, I can see where you are! Dd: I see... Dd: That is amazing technology. Those Machina are very resourceful... Fi: And that's not all I can do! I have loads of built-in features! Dd: (Fiora... You're taking all this far too well.) (b) ++++ Dd: The technology is incredible, for instance. Especially the weapons! Fi: You never change, Dunban! Always on about fighting. Dd: That's me. A born and bred killing machine. Fi: You know there's more to you than that, Dunban! Fi: I heard you saved everyone's life, and more than once. Dd: It's nice to know I'm appreciated around here. Fi: I wonder if I should try to move here one day... Dd: You were serious about that? Fi: I can hardly go back to the colony looking like this. Dd: You worry too much. (b1) You certainly look...different. (b2) (b1) ++++ Dd: Those are good people back home. It'll be like you never left. Fi: Are you sure? 'Cos I'm not... Dd: Of course I'm sure, Fiora. Dd: They owe you. When times were bad, your smile saved them all. Fi: Hehe. That's nice of you to say. Dd: I'm sorry about all this. I should have done more that day. Fi: It's not your fault, really. Fi: And I've gotten used to this body. For better or worse... Fi: I'm the one who should be doing more to reassure you. Fi: You really don't need to worry! Dd: It's fine, Fiora. Dd: Hey... When we get back home, will you make my favourite dish? Fi: One 'Dunban Special' coming up! Fi: But you and Shulk need to work on your vocabulary! Fi: If I hear 'Yeah, great, thanks!' one more time... (b2) ---- Dd: People will stare to begin with, but I guess we can't blame them. Fi: You're right... Fi: I'll probably remind everyone of the Mechon attack. Dd: Oh! Dd: I am so sorry, Fiora. I can't believe I said that. Fi: Teehee. Don't pull that silly face! Fi: I'm tougher than I look. It'll be like I never left. Dd: You don't need to worry. Dd: Shulk and the others will come home with us to the colony. Dd: And whatever the residents say, I'll be there to shut them up! Fi: Yay! You're the best big brother ever! Dd: I promise you, Fiora. Dd: You'll always be my beloved little sister. Fi: Thank you, Dunban. Fi: With you around, I'll never need to be afraid again. ============================================================================= Ancient Astrology Me: Whatever's the matter, Sharla? Why are you standing here? Sa: The stars... They're beautiful, aren't they? Sa: Knowing that they're the same stars I see back home... Sa: It makes me feel at peace. Me: Yes. I feel it too... Sa: Melia... You know anything about fortune telling? Me: It's nothing but mumbo jumbo. (a) Of course I do! (b) (a) ---- Me: It's patently false, and I refuse to believe in such drivel. Sa: I don't know, Melia. There's definitely some truth to it. Me: Yet if I asked you for proof, would you have any to give? Sa: Well...maybe not. Sa: But if it was 100% accurate, it wouldn't be called fortune telling. Me: That...almost makes sense... Sa: Trust me, Melia. I know a little about this sort of thing! Sa: How about we do a reading? What star sign are you? Me: My star sign is the Rhapsodist. (a1) I will not answer that. (a2) (a1) ++++ Sa: That's great news! Me: It is? Wh-why?! Sa: Shulk's is the Pedagogue. You guys are a perfect match! Me: We are?! Sa: You're such a lucky girl, Melia. Me: S-such things do not impress me. I cannot share your enthusiasm. Sa: I know you're smiling inside! Me: How dare you! But, erm... You really think we're a match?! Sa: Aha! You're interested after all! Sa: It's true. When the stars align, two lovers' destinies are set! Me: I feel more confident, but I shall remain... cautiously optimistic. (a2) ---- Me: Tell me what you intend to read about me first. Sa: How compatible you are with Shulk, of course! Me: Why would you care?! Sa: It's more that I thought you might care. Me: I...do not need to know... Sa: Then this won't interest you at all. Sa: Shulk was born a Pedagogue. If you happened to be a Rhapsodist... Sa: Well, you'd be a perfect match! Me: (But...I am a Rhapsodist! Could it be true!?) Sa: Melia? You OK? Me: Oh, er, it's nothing. I was just thinking about...Riki. That's all! (b) ++++ Me: It's about telling the future based on one's star sign. Sa: That's right! Sa: I thought only Homs knew about fortune telling... Me: I know nothing of its origins. Me: But practitioners have existed for countless generations. Sa: Amazing to think that people of old looked up at the same sky as us... Me: Quite amazing, yes. Sa: So, do you believe in fortune telling? Me: No, I do not. (b1) Yes, I do. (b2) (b1) ---- Me: Making grand predictions based on the movement of the stars? Me: It's preposterous. Sa: I don't know. Sometimes it's surprisingly accurate. Me: But fortune tellers only tell you what you already know. Sa: Melia... Your star sign is the Rhapsodist. Am I right? Me: You are correct. But how did you know? Sa: The power of fortune telling! Sa: Basically, you're a typical Rhapsodist. Sa: You're a perfectionist, and firm in your beliefs. Me: Do you mean to say I am inflexible and stubborn? Is that it?! Me: Although, now that you mention it...you're not exactly wrong. Sa: (It's working!) Sa: (I barely said a thing, but she's starting to believe me!) (b2) ++++ Me: Is it unbecoming of me to dabble in such things? Sa: No! Not at all, Melia. All girls love this stuff! Sa: Don't you worry yourself. Me: Oh, thank goodness. I always wondered, you know! Sa: Tell me, Melia. What's your star sign? Me: The Rhapsodist. How about you, Sharla? Sa: My star sign's the Perfumer. Sa: You and me have great compatibility, Melia! Me: I had guessed as much! Sa: Haha! Wow, Melia... You're even better at reading people than me! ============================================================================= The Forefathers Ri: Fiora! Fiora! Fi: what is it, Riki?! Ri: What this thing, Fiora? Ri: Riki think wow! Riki like it! Fi: This is a statue made to look like the High Entia forefathers. Fi: Melia told us, remember? Ri: Forefathers were important? (a) Poor father? Like Riki? (b) (a) ++++ Fi: Very. They're said to be the founders of Melia's family line. Ri: So Melly's great-grampypons! Fi: That's right. Fi: They are credited with bringing civilisation to Bionis. Ri: Melly's relatives very clever! Riki think it cool! Fi: Why don't you let her know that. I'm sure she'd appreciate it. Ri: Fiora! Riki want to be king! Fi: A king, huh? Sounds like a lot of fun! Fi: All right. If you get to be king, what will you do? Ri: Give out free money! (a1) Make weapons! Fight Dinobeast! (a2) (a1) ---- Fi: Are you sure that's a good idea? Fi: Isn't it better if people work to earn money? Ri: Not everyone! Ri: Just people who have injuries! And old people! Fi: Oh, I see what you mean. Help those who need it. Fi: I thought you were saying people wouldn't need to work at all. Ri: Fiora bad Hom Hom! Riki has been alive for long time! Ri: Riki know better than that! Fi: I'm sorry, Riki. Fi: I know your family depends on you to bring home the pollen. Ri: Riki want to be richer than Bird People AND be good daddypon! Fi: Teehee. That's a nice goal, Riki. I'm sure you can do it. (a2) ++++ Fi: A force to fight the Telethia... That's quite ambitious, Riki. Ri: Riki want to help everyone and stop Dinobeast at same time! Fi: Don't forget me in your squad! Ri: Fiora want to hear Riki's idea for weapon? Fi: Ooh! Tell me, Riki. Ri: Riki put Dinobeast's favourite food on ground. Ri: When Dinobeast come to eat, Riki spring big trap to catch them! Ri: Riki pull lever and ground collapse and make Dinobeast fall into hole! Ri: Then throw sand on Dinobeast to bury it! Fi: That's your plan?! Ri: Yes. Fiora not like Riki's plan? Fi: Well... It's not that I don't like it... Fi: But how about you leave the trap building to Shulk? Fi: A king should think more about his kingly duties. Ri: Fiora right! Riki need to be good king! Fi: (If the Telethia were that stupid, nobody would be scared of them!) (b) ---- Fi: N-no, Riki. I said 'forefathers'. Fi: I'm sure he wasn't poor like you. Ri: Fiora sure? Fi: Fairly sure! Fi: They're the founders of Melia's family line. Ri: So that means...Melly's great-grampypons? Fi: Yes. Exactly. Fi: They're even credited with bringing civilisation to Bionis. Ri: Hmm... Fi: What's wrong? Ri: Forefather really that special? (b1) Riki want to meet statue man! (b2) (b1) ---- Fi: What do you mean? Ri: Riki see Dinobeast. Fi: What? When you look at this statue? Ri: Statue look like old Bird People king. Look like Dinobeast king too! Fi: Then you're seeing something I can't, Riki. Ri: Riki have special seeing powers?! Thank you, Fiora! Fi: I wasn't complimenting you, but you're welcome. (b2) ++++ Fi: That would be amazing! Fi: Imagine all the things you could ask him! Ri: Riki think old Bird People were very very big! Fi: Melia said something similar. But it could all be legend... Fi: Anyway, I doubt they were quite as big as this statue. Ri: Riki very jealous... Fi: Jealous? Why? Fi: Because of their size? You're a great size, Riki. Fi: I bet it's not all roses being big. Fi: Think about your littlepon growing to be giants! Ri: B-b-but that sound bad, Fiora! Riki scared just thinking about it. Ri: Littlepon crush whole of village! Fi: (And you wouldn't be so cute and cuddly!) Ri: Fiora? Hello? Fi: Sorry. Drifted off there. Anyway, I wonder where the others are... ============================================================================= Melia's Imperial Villa Me: This is the Imperial Villa. Me: I spent my childhood here with my mother. Fi: Oh, I'm sorry. Fi: If I'd known, I wouldn't have barged in. Me: Don't be silly. It's quite all right. Me: In fact, I'm glad that you in particular have come to see it. Fi: Really? (a) Thanks! (b) (a) ---- Fi: I mean, we're sort of friends now, but we only just met. Me: Oh... Me: So you don't value the short time we've spent together? I know I do. Fi: Melia... I... Fi: No. You're right. I shouldn't have said that. Fi: You know, Melia, you're... something else. Me: Something else? How maddeningly vague! Fi: What I meant was... (a1) You don't know what I meant? (a2) (a1) ++++ Fi: You never mince your words and you're always upfront. Me: You really think so? Me: I've never thought about myself that way before. Fi: It's just like you said. Fi: We've only spent a short time together, but it's meant so much. Me: I did say that. Me: But it was obvious enough already. What point are you making? Fi: That's it! Right there. Fi: You speak your mind to anyone, and people respect you for it. Fi: You're everything I ever imagined a princess to be. Me: I am? Me: Your words fill me with a sense of pride in my upbringing. Me: But I find myself jealous of you. Fi: Jealous? Really? Me: Oh...forget I said anything. Me: Hmm, perhaps a change of scenery is in order. The next room is... (a2) ---- Fi: There's no need to be modest. Me: But...I wasn't! I simply did not understand your point! Fi: But it was you that said the most important part. Fi: That we've only spent a short time together, but it's meant so much. Me: I did say that, yes. Me: But what of it? I was merely stating the obvious. Fi: That there! That's what I mean! Fi: It's the way you're brutally honest. I'm the total opposite. Fi: I hope you don't mind me saying so, but I think you're kind of cool. Me: I must admit, no one has ever told me that. Me: You're an interesting character yourself, Fiora. Fi: I am? I've never really felt like that. But thank you all the same! Me: Hmph. So carefree... Me: I think I'm beginning to see what Shulk likes about you. (b) ++++ Fi: That means a lot to me. Fi: And it really is a lovely home! Me: I'm glad you think so. Fi: But...something about it seems... sad. Lonely, almost. Me: You think so too. Me: This place has always had a lonely feel to it... Fi: So it's not just me then... (b1) Oh, sorry. I was just kidding! (b2) (b1) ++++ Fi: I'm sorry, Melia. Fi: I didn't mean to say anything that would upset you. Me: You did nothing of the sort. Me: The truth is, my mother passed away some time ago. Me: It's probably because of that. Fi: Oh... That means you're just like me. Fi: My mother died when I was young as well. Me: Your brother told me. Fi: My mother's room is still as it was. Full of memories, but so empty. Fi: I somehow get the same sense from this place. Me: Not everyone has had that kind of experience. Me: No wonder you can recognise the feel of this place. Fi: I hope you'll always look after this place. The garden's amazing. Fi: I would love to hang out here again. It's really growing on me! Me: And I'd love for you to visit again. Me: I'm glad it's made such an impression on you. (b2) ---- Fi: Wait, you mean it's true? Fi: Wow! I wasn't being serious. Me: That was meant to be a joke?! What kind of joke is that?! Me: I suggest you keep such jokes to yourself in future. Fi: Sorry. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. Fi: You really think it feels lonely here? Me: I do, yes. Me: My mother passed away some time ago, but her memories remain. Me: I suspect that's the reason. Fi: I didn't know. That's sad. Fi: I lost my mother too. It was when I was quite young... Fi: So we have more in common than you might think. Me: I'm glad we can be so open with one another, Fiora. Fi: Me too! Fi: Do you wanna chat some more? I'd love to know about your mum. Me: Really? That would be nice. Me: I don't often get the chance to talk to anyone about her. ============================================================================= A Breathtaking Sight Rn: Check that out! How high are we?! Man, Alcamoth... What a place! Me: Careful. Another step and you shall not be seeing tomorrow. Rn: How on Bionis did you get the entire city to float?! Amazing. Me: It's quite simple really. Rn: Right, yeah! 'Simple', she says. Rn: I can't get enough of this breeze though. Makes me feel alive... Me: I quite agree. (a) You enjoy it up here? (b) (a) ++++ Me: Gazing across our beloved land... It's a sight like no other. Me: All those fears and worries just seem to melt away. Rn: So you feel it too, eh? Rn: It reminds me of when I used to sneak out of school. Rn: I'd go watch the clouds go by from the highest hill in the colony. Me: I have to say that sounds just like you, Reyn. Rn: Shulk'd come looking for me and we'd argue about me skiving off. Rn: He'd eventually give up and we'd hang out until school was over. Me: What?! But I cannot imagine Shulk being so...naughty! Rn: Look. Shulk's always been a bit of a rule breaker. Just like me. Me: Poppycock! (a1) I got that impression. (a2) (a1) ---- Me: I cannot believe that Shulk is anything like you, Reyn. Rn: Oh, so that's how you think is it? Rn: Tell me... If he's so different to me, what's he doing here? Me: Whatever do you mean? Rn: Us two chose to leave behind our old lives and get revenge. Rn: Even though Dunban said, er... something about treasuring life? Rn: The point is, Shulk didn't listen! And that's the Shulk I know. Me: I see... Rn: It don't matter what kind of danger there is out there. Rn: We live by our own rules! Me: I somewhat get your point, Reyn. Me: I am jealous, in a way. Me: I have spent my life constrained by the expectations of my peers. Rn: Well, my way works for me and your way works for you. Rn: You can't just do random whatever 'cos of all your responsibilities. Rn: But you think I'd last five minutes being top dog of your people? Rn: 'The Ministry of Health requires daily triathlons of all citizens.' Rn: They'd be up in arms! Me: Agreed. Best to focus on more... suitable matters. Rn: Exactly! Now come on, let's find the others. (a2) ++++ Me: When the Telethia surprised me in the Tomb, and you all appeared... Me: Your presence shocked me greatly. Me: Homs had never set foot inside the Tomb before. Rn: We've been breaking down barriers like that for years. Me: I heard he even argued with my brother. Me: He sensed I was in danger and persuaded him to let you find me. Rn: ... Me: Wh-what is it, Reyn? Rn: I'm the one who stood up to Kallian, not Shulk! Me: R-really? It was you? Rn: And it was Dunban that sealed the deal! Me: (So it wasn't Shulk after all...) Rn: I say something wrong? Me: No, not at all...but I am no longer in the mood to chat. Let us leave. (b) ---- Me: Personally, I am not entirely keen on such high places. Rn: You what?! Rn: You live on these floating rocks and you're scared of heights?! Me: I...wouldn't put it quite like that... Rn: You can't hide it from me! I can see it in your eyes, Melia. Me: (Such an irritating brute!)(b1) (I shall grant him this one.) (b2) (b1) ---- Me: The truth is, when I was young, I fell from this very precipice. Me: Ever since, I cannot bring myself to look over the edge. Rn: You must be joking! * Me: Why? Rn: You're seriously telling me you fell from here and LIVED?! * Me: Yes. I cannot tell you how, because I have no memory of it. Rn: That is one heck of a tale, Melia. Me: Everyone has a story or two to tell. This is mine. Me: Now come on, Reyn. Time to go. Rn: Impressive! Nice story, Melia. You winged bunch are a funny lot. Me: (Sharla was right! Reyn can be sweet...every now and then.) (b2) ++++ Me: It is true. I am afraid that I might fall off the edge. Me: It is due to a bad experience I had in my childhood. Rn: You're joking, right? It's nothing! Look! *Goes to edge* Me: And how is it, Reyn? Rn: Wooah! * Me: Are you all right, Reyn? Rn: *Sits down* I...feel...dizzy. Head...spinning. You were right, I'm staying back! Me: I told you so, Reyn. Rn: Melia! You try it now! But whatever you do, don't fall off! Me: I'm fine where I am. Thank you. And kindly stop messing around. Rn: Ah, come on. I was only playing... ============================================================================= So Close, Yet So Far Sk: I would have never guessed you were a princess, Melia. Me: I'm sorry I hid it from you. Me: I was waiting for the right time to tell you, but it never came... Sk: I should have figured it out from the way you dress. Me: I dress...differently to other girls? Sk: Yeah, your clothes are weird. (a) It's not a bad thing. (b) (a) ---- Me: You don't like the way I dress? I suppose that's to be expected. Sk: What do you mean? Me: Ignore me... I was just... It's nothing. Sk: Are you suggesting my tastes are a bit less...sophisticated? Me: What an absurd question! I would never say something like that! Sk: S-sorry, Melia. (a1) I swear you were about to. (a2) (a1) ++++ Sk: It just felt like you were going for something along those lines... Me: Would you be quiet?! Me: Let's just forget this conversation ever happened. How about that? Sk: All right, if you're sure... Sk: But I am really sorry, Melia. That was dumb, what I said. Me: You don't need to apologise. Me: It was me being silly. I put you on the spot. Sk: Melia... Sk: I look at you and all I see is you. Sk: I don't care if you're a High Entia, a Homs, a Nopon or a Machina. Sk: You're my friend. You don't have to be anything but what you are. Me: For you to say so is much appreciated, Shulk. Sk: So...don't worry about it! I like you the way you are. Me: Then I shall remember that. And keep being me. (a2) ---- Me: I was not! I have no need to learn what type of girl you prefer! Sk: Yeah... I guess not... Sk: Sorry, Melia. You're not annoyed at me, are you? Me: No. It was my fault. It was a silly conversation anyway. Me: Let's just forget about it. OK? Sk: You don't want to get back to the point you were trying to make? Me: I'd like to, one day. But...it will have to be another time. Sk: No problem. Just remember I'm here whenever you want to talk. Me: I do not intend to forget. (b) ++++ Me: Really? That is quite a relief. Me: I don't really know what other girls wear, so I was worried... Sk: Clothes really aren't that important. Sk: I like you just the way you are. Sk: You could be a princess, a pauper, or even from a crazy alien world! Sk: I'd still be your friend. I always will be. Me: If you keep talking like that, you'll get back in my good books. Me: But I do wonder what it would be like if I were not a princess... Sk: I have no idea. (b1) Nothing would change. (b2) (b1) ---- Me: I suspect things might have been somewhat different. Sk: How do you mean? Me: We might have been closer... Sk: Really? You think it would make that much of a difference? Me: Sometimes...I'm jealous. Me: I mean...of the others. I don't seem to fit in. Me: (And...you do not share the feelings that I have for you...) Sk: You don't need to worry about any of this, Melia. Sk: Remember, you're... Me: I know. I'm me, and I don't need to be anyone else. You're right. Sk: And don't you forget it! (b2) ++++ Me: I suppose not. Me: I would most likely still have met all of you and travelled with you. Me: But...I don't know, Shulk. Me: Sometimes I look at everyone and I get very jealous. Sk: You do? Why? Me: Everyone is so at east with each other. They get to be themselves. Me: I was brought up as a member of the High Entia imperial family. Sk: But you're not stuck in this stuffy palace anymore. You're free now. Sk: So go on, show it off! Do something really crazy! Sk: It'll be our secret! Me: You mean right now, in front of you?! Me: No, I'm too embarrassed. I can't. Please don't make me, Shulk. Sk: *Laughing* Haha. You don't have to. It's fine. Sk: But give it some thought! Me: I shall take your advice into consideration. Me: And maybe one day you will see me do something...crazy. ============================================================================= Hopes and Plans Me: Am I really to be the last ruler of the High Entia? Sk: Melia...I... Me: In fact, even calling me the ruler is a bit of a joke. Me: I'm the empress of a city of one. Sk: You weren't the only one with Homs heritage. Sk: Reach out to the remaining High Entia. Rebuild the city together. Me: Easier said than done! (a) Do you think it's possible? (b) (a) ---- Me: Rebuilding Alcamoth is nonsense. It's completely impossible. Sk: Sorry, Melia. I might have seemed a bit too eager there. Sk: But I don't want you to give up. Me: I understand what you're saying. But...I can't, Shulk... Sk: Is that really how you feel? Me: Yes. (a1) Well...not exactly. (a2) (a1) ---- Sk: But...that isn't you! Sk: The Melia I know has a lot more confidence in herself than that. Me: How can I be confident in myself?! Me: I failed to save those close to me. I let them die... Me: You think someone like that can rebuild an entire city?! Sk: So...what? You're just going to forget you're even a High Entia? Sk: Live the rest of your life as a Homs? Me: ... Me: No... I will not do that. Sk: Whatever you're going to do, you don't have to rush to your decision. Sk: Take some time. Think about it. Sk: I'll be here, ready to listen. Whatever choice you make. Me: I don't know the path I will take. Me: I need time to think... Me: However, I will tell you as soon as I know. Sk: I'll look forward to it. No hurry, though! Me: Thank you, Shulk. (a2) ++++ Me: I am resolved in my decision to ascend the throne. Sk: Then what's wrong? You'll be a great ruler. Me: But what about those I let down? All those close to me I lost? Me: How can I, a failure to my people, rebuild an entire city?! Sk: If anyone can rally the people again, it's you, Melia. Sk: It'll take time and a lot of effort, but if you build it, they will come. Me: Shulk! Me: I just remembered Juju is helping to reconstruct Colony 6. Sk: Yeah. You could learn a few tips from him! Sk: You'll get Alcamoth back on its feet before you know it! Me: Thank you so much, Shulk! Me: It's settled. I shall begin as soon as our current mission is over. (b) ++++ Sk: Of course! I'll help you out. Sk: You'll be fine. I know it! No one's tougher than you, Melia. Me: No challenge seems beyond reach when you talk about it. Me: When I look into your eyes, I feel so sure about myself. Sk: You do? Well, thanks! Me: Shulk... When Alcamoth is rebuilt, I have a...personal mission. Sk: Really? What are you gonna do? Me: I want to see if I can find any relatives of my mother. Me: My real mother, that is. Sk: You mean the...Second Consort? She was your birth mother, right? Me: Yes. Me: I only have a few memories or our time spent in the Imperial Villa. Sk: Then we can look together! Me: You'll...look for them with me? (b1) I can't ask that of you. (b2) (b1) ++++ Me: Are you sure? I mean... I don't want to pressure you. Sk: You don't even have to ask. I'd love to meet your family. Me: It might take some time to track them down... Sk: Then let's ask Fiora and Reyn! The four of us can go! Sk: Then we'll be sure to find them. Me: Well...OK, Shulk. Me: Another adventure with my friends. It would be most enjoyable! Sk: We'll always be your friends. Even after you return home. Me: I'm glad. Thank you, Shulk. You're a good friend. (b2) ---- Me: It might take some time to track them down. I'll go alone. Sk: Why? The two of us could find them in half the time! Me: You should be with Fiora. Me: She's still not completely well. It's the right thing to do. Sk: But...what about your mother's relatives? Me: I'll find them. Don't worry about me. Me: Thank you, Shulk. Sk: OK. Whatever you say, Melia. But remember this... Sk: When you go back to Alcamoth, I'll still be your friend. Sk: Any time you need me, just let me know. I'll be there for you, Melia. Me: I will, Shulk. Thank you for everything. ============================================================================= Echoes of Ancient Times Me: It doesn't matter how many times I come here, it still amazes me. Rn: It's impressive all right. Can't believe it's so old... Me: Do you not have such ancient architecture near your colony? Rn: Nope. Not still looking all shiny and new like this. Rn: Mag Mell Ruins is the closest. But it's taken a beatin' over the years. Me: Then it truly is a unique place. Rn: So that globe thing... What's that all about? Me: I'm afraid I don't know the answer. It's a mystery to me too. Rn: Let's go and take a look. (a) You mean you don't know? (b) (a) ++++ Rn: I guess you wouldn't know, but that thing roughed us up good. Me: Then my guess would be that it's the nerve centre of the Tomb. Me: Perhaps the Tomb's defence systems were activated. Rn: Do you know how it works? Ether or something, right? Me: You're probably correct. But how is that possible? Me: This was built many years ago. Me: The technology to extract high quantities of ether energy is new. Rn: Us Homs could do with that. Rn: Mind sharing it with us? (a1) But you kept it to yourselves! (a2) (a1) ++++ Rn: We're um...a bit behind with stuff like this. Rn: Floating cities and flying machines are a bit advanced for our lot. Me: If you're in need of technology, we'd be happy to share it with you. Me: We High Entia will no longer shut ourselves away to others. Rn: So you'll help us? Brilliant! Rn: No more getting shouted at by old Square-tache! Rn: He hates it when we don't find cylinders. Me: Who is this 'Square-tache'? Rn: Oh, forget it. It's nothin'. Just me blabbering on. Rn: You reckon one day we can make those air ships you lot have? Rn: It'd be amazing! I've always wanted my own plane. Rn: Cheers, Melia! It's gonna be great! Me: I, er...feel we've drifted slightly from the subject at hand. Me: Regardless, from now on the High Entia and Homs will work together. Me: Hand in hand we'll restore Colony 9 to its former glory and beyond! (a2) ---- Rn: We could have made loads of really good weapons, you know! Rn: Maybe even stopped the Mechon from murdering our families... Me: You are right, Reyn... Me: We High Entia chose to turn a blind eye. I'm not proud. Rn: Sorry, I didn't mean to blame you. Rn: None of that's your fault. Me: No, your point was valid. Me: That's why it has to be different. Homs and High Entia together. Me: We will rebuild your homes and get you back on your feet. Rn: Really? You mean it? Thanks, Melia! Rn: No more Square-tache telling-offs! Rn: No more trips out of the colony for those Ether Cylinders! Me: Telling-offs? What are you talking about? Rn: Ah, nothing! Um... It's personal. Rn: Anyway, thanks a bunch, Melia! Me: I am confused...but then, I find I often am when talking to you. (b) ---- Rn: What, did you skip tech class in school or something? Me: I am leaving. *Turns away* Rn: Easy, Melia. I was joking! Me: I see... Reaching a little, don't you think? Me: According to the Ministry of Research, it's the Tomb's centre. Me: Perhaps the defence systems were activated. Rn: Pretty amazing for something you lot built ages ago! Rn: What's with all those scribbles on the wall? That's your alphabet? Me: That is an ancient script. Me: It depicts the battle between the Bionis and the Mechonis. Rn: Battle? What battle? (b1) It's really that old?! (b2) (b1) ---- Rn: Oh, you mean the one the Bionis and Mechonis fought forever ago? Me: If you know already, why bother asking me? Rn: Yeah, umm... I just remembered. I learned about it in school. Me: You're a strange one, Reyn. Me: But yes, these are thought to be writings of that ancient battle. Rn: So you don't know exactly what it says here? Me: No. Only those that ascend the throne are able to read it. Me: It is like a code that must be unlocked. Rn: So you can't read it...at all? And I thought you were pretty smart. Me: You of all people should avoid making remarks about intelligence. Rn: Hahaha. You got me there, Melia! (b2) ++++ Rn: I thought there weren't any records left from back then. Rn: Or ruins. This could be the only place left! Me: You do know a few things, Reyn. Me: Yes. The battle was so fierce it destroyed most of everything. Rn: Then that would make this text pretty important, if you ask me. Me: Very much so. Me: However, only those that ascend the throne are able to decipher it. Rn: That means you'll be able to read it someday. Right? Me: I will, with some hard work. Me: But before such things, we all have much work to do. Me: And that comes first. Rn: No doubt, Melia. So let's get back to it! ============================================================================= In Ose Tower Ri: Dundun! Riki not like here! Ri: Riki go brrrrr inside and outside! Dd: Yes, it's bitterly cold. Ri: No, Dundun not right! Riki mean something different. Dd: Well, what then? Tell me. Ri: Riki's instinct tell him... Ri: Riki has cold. (a) Ghosts are here. (b) (a) ---- Dd: Oh no! Are you all right, Riki? Dd: You are looking a bit under the weather. Ri: Riki going to die! Dd: You're not going to die, Riki. Dd: I'll bring Sharla and have her take a look at you. Ri: Riki want to eat blobby soup. Dd: I can't say I've heard of it. What is it exactly? Ri: When Riki have cold, Oka make special soup. Ri: She add fifty vitamins to soup and it look like big blob! Dd: I see. Sounds...delicious, Riki. Dd: A healthy, nutrient-rich soup is a very good idea. Ri: Yes. Riki want Oka's soup. Dd: Fiora used to make me soup whenever I had a cold as well. Dd: I'd eat it all up and be right as rain in no time. Ri: Dundun make Riki soup! (a1) Riki want to eat Fiora's soup! (a2) (a1) ---- Dd: What? Me? Make you soup? Ri: Riki need healthy soup. Dundun can make veg soup! Dd: I'm possibly the worst cook on Bionis, apart from Reyn. Dd: And it would take me a while to find all the ingredients. Ri: Riki want tasty soup, Dunban. Ri: Dundun should learn to make own soup and not always ask Fiora! Dd: Perhaps you are right. I'll think it over, Riki. Dd: Still, no soup for Riki today, so you'll have to just buck up. Ri: Riki still not well. Ri: But Riki wait for next time to eat Dundun's delicious dinner! (a2) ++++ Ri: Riki want to try Hom Hom special soup for sick people! Dd: It's not anything special, Riki. It's very plain, in fact. Dd: It has no taste, no colour. Dd: Eating it when you have no appetite feels like a punishment. Ri: That sound like blobby soup! Ri: It helps you get better from cold, but taste is like Nopon nightmare! Ri: And Oka get angry when Riki not eat it all up. Dd: Haha. Fiora's the same way with me. You just have to force it down. Ri: Riki and Dundun same? Yay! Riki like being like Dundun! Ri: Thank you, Dundun! Riki die happy Nopon! Dd: Riki! Riki, are you all right?! Stay with me! Rikiiiii! (b) ++++ Ri: *Turns away* Ghosts come out and fight Riki! Heropon kapow you away! * Dd: Who exactly are you ranting on at, Riki? Ri: Dundun. Dundun must leave now. Not safe here. Dd: I do sense something strange in the air. It's...not right somehow. Dd: Maybe you are onto something. Ri: Dundun know what ghost is? (b1) Riki feel scary scary! (b2) (b1) ++++ Dd: I'm going to tell you a story, Riki. But first a question. Dd: Do you know anything about the Monado expedition team? Ri: Alvis tell Riki some information. Ri: Shulk was one of team members. Ri: Riki was very surprised! Dd: That's right. Dd: Fourteen years ago, the team set out to try and find the Monado. Dd: They found it here in these ruins, but only one of them came home. Dd: That was Shulk. Ri: Shulk's daddypon and mummypon not come home? Dd: No, they did not make it back. Dd: Perhaps the Monado rejected them. Or perhaps... Ri: When Riki come here, Riki feel different. Ri: Riki sometimes hear voice worried about Shulk! Dd: Is that so? Dd: You've got an instinct for this. I didn't hear a thing. Ri: Here is special place to Shulk. Ri: Riki remember that and not kapow ghosts! (b2) ---- Dd: Haha. That doesn't sound like the Heropon Riki I know. Ri: H-Heropon Riki brave! Riki beat Dinobeast! Dd: Riki, do you know anything about the Monado expedition team? Ri: Alvis tell Riki small bit about it. Ri: Shulk was one of the team. Ri: Riki not know before! Dd: That's right. Dd: Fourteen years ago, the team set out to try and find the Monado. Dd: They found it here in these ruins, but only one of them came home. Dd: That was Shulk. Ri: What about other team members? Dd: They were found dead by the entrance to the ruins. Dd: The bodies had no external wounds, but they looked starved. Dd: Perhaps the Monado rejected them. Or perhaps... Ri: Riki know! Ghosts are here! Riki want to go home now! Dd: Haha. Relax, Riki. There's nothing here. Dd: The ghosts are all in your mind... ============================================================================= A Snowy Hot Spring Sk: Riki? Got a second? I wanted to ask you something. Sk: Riki? What are you doing? Ri: Riki love hot water! All Nopon love hot spring! Sk: Oh, right. Gotcha. Sk: The water actually looks kinda chilly though... Ri: Not too hot, not too cold! (a) Riki's nose not stop running! (b) (a) ++++ Sk: My mistake. I just thought it just looked cold. Ri: Riki look across snowy hills and enjoy hot water. Ri: It perfect, Shulk! Sk: I don't really see the appeal... But if you like it, that's cool. Ri: Shulk jump in water too! (a1) Shulk still a littlepon. (a2) (a1) ++++ Sk: You want me to join you in there?! Ri: Otherwise Shulk never know how good hot spring is! Sk: I guess you're right... Ri: Do not worry, Shulk! Shulk will like water same as Riki. Sk: Aaah! * Sk: The geyser's blown him away! Sk: Time for me to make a run for it! Sorry, Riki! (a2) ---- Sk: I'm still a kid? Ri: When Shulk become forty, Shulk understand Riki's hobby. Sk: It's gonna be a while then... Ri: So Shulk should learn from Riki and become great Hom Hom adult! Sk: Aaah! * Sk: The geyser's blown him away! Sk: All things considered, I'm not sure Riki is the best role model... (b) ---- Sk: That can't be good for you, Riki! Better get out while you can Ri: If Riki leave hot spring now, Riki too cold! Sk: Stop acting like a kid, Riki! Ri: Riki not child! (b1) Riki learn his lesson. (b2) (b1) ---- Ri: Riki forty years old this year! Shulk just a littlepon! Sk: S-sorry, Riki. Ri: But Shulk right. Riki sometimes act like littlepon... Sk: Aaah! * Sk: The geyser's blown him away! Sk: I'm starting to wonder if Riki's lying about his age... (b2) ++++ Sk: Great! Now, I'll bring you a hot drink so it'll be less cold. Ri: Wooow! Thank you, Shulk! Sk: Back in a minute... *leaves* Ri: Riki look forward! Sk: Hey... What's going on? Sk: Where's Riki got to? Riki! Hey, Riki! You here?! ============================================================================= First Sight of Snow Rn: Brrr. I hate the cold. Fi: Hehe. How come? Rn: I just do, you know? Rn: The snow doesn't help. And I've never even seen snow before! Fi: Me neither. It looks so...white! Fi: Nothing like this ever happens back at the colony. Rn: I don't get it. What's up with balls of ice just falling from the sky? Rn: Stupid idea if you ask me! Fi: You think so? (a) I'm with you. It's strange. (b) (a) ---- Rn: What, and you don't? Fi: I'm sorry. The thing is... Fi: Shulk taught me about why the sky rains ice like this. Rn: Did he now? That Shulk sure knows a thing or two. Fi: Yeah. Sometimes I can't believe how different you two are. Rn: Sorry! Can't all be brilliant! Rn: Anyway, go on. Tell me about why it rains ice then. Fi: Umm...give me a second. (a1) I don't remember. (a2) (a1) ++++ Fi: Water from Eryth Sea evaporate... Fi: Then when it reaches the sky, it freezes and rains down as ice. Rn: You don't say... Rn: Now that I'd have never guessed. Fi: To tell the truth, I only half understand it myself. Rn: Right, that's it! Rn: We've been chatting here so long, my toes are about to fall off! Fi: Don't be so dramatic, Reyn. (a2) ---- Rn: Hey! You said you knew! Fi: I did! I just forgot, all right?! Rn: Sure you ain't lying to me? Fi: No I'm not lying to you, Reyn! Quit staring at me like that. Fi: Ask me again tomorrow, all right? I'm sure I'll remember by then. Fi: (I'd better get Shulk to explain it to me again, and soon...!) (b) ++++ Fi: Do you think the people back home would want to see this? Fi: I bet they'd be amazed! Rn: Yes. I mean, we come from a place that's warm all year round. Rn: A land covered in ice is like this crazy dream world. Fi: Yeah. And I think the little ones would love to play in the snow! Rn: No doubt! Rn: You reckon we could pile some up and take it back to the colony? Fi: That sounds like a great idea! (b1) Er... (b2) (b1) ++++ Fi: Everyone would be so excited! Rn: The adults are busy rebuilding their homes, right? Rn: So the kids could play with all this snow while they work! Fi: Yeah! That's brilliant, Reyn! Fi: You have some pretty good ideas once in a while. Rn: You could have left out the 'once in a while' part... Fi: We should try and figure out the best way to transport it. Fi: It'll melt if we just carry it back ourselves. Rn: Yeah, didn't think of that. I'll get Shulk! He'll know what to do! Fi: Wait a minute! This is your plan. You come up with something. Rn: Give me a break, Fiora. Rn: You should know me and Shulk work as a team. Fi: Teehee. You'll never change. Either of you, I'd imagine! (b2) ---- Fi: It'll melt as soon as we move towards a warmer climate... Rn: Then we'd better get someone to help who knows about this stuff. Fi: Right. Well...that could work. Fi: The problem is, where do we even start? Rn: I reckon we'd need some kind of, um...special container...? Fi: I guess we'll have to enlist Professor Shulk. Rn: Nice one! Rn: Same as always, huh? I've been relying on him since we were kids. Fi: Hehe. You're not wrong. Let's talk to him about it later! Rn: There's a plan if I ever heard one! ============================================================================= A Night-Time Chat Sa: Sorry to drag you away at a time like this. Fi: It's OK. What did you want to talk about? Sa: I didn't want to say this earlier, but... Sa: Until I met you, I thought Melia was the one for him. Fi: For who? Are you talking about Shulk? Sa: Yeah. Sa: Don't get me wrong, I don't want to meddle. I'm just...an onlooker. Sa: I don't really mind which one of you gets the guy. Fi: Thanks... I think. (a) Oh no! (b) (a) ++++ Sa: I know that you're a big deal to the boy, so don't worry. Sa: Lately that's been clear as can be. Fi: Lately...? You mean...after he found me? Sa: Yeah. Since you came back. Sa: I mean, Shulk looked out for everyone like the good guy he is. Sa: But he's definitely changed since you joined us. Fi: He has? How do you mean? (a1) I don’t think he’s changed. (a2) (a1) ---- Sa: He doesn't seem so... grimly determined. Fi: Grim anything doesn't sound much like Shulk to me. Sa: He might not have even noticed the change himself. Sa: But I did, Dunban did... Riki might have done? Fi: But not Melia and Reyn? Sa: They saw him differently. Sa: Reyn's been going through almost the same thing as Shulk. Sa: And Melia... Fi: Melia what? What were you going to say? Sa: You'll have to talk to her if you want to find that out. Sa: I shouldn't be the one to tell you. Fi: Fair enough... Sa: But I'd still be happy to see either of you get together with Shulk. Fi: That's kind of you, Sharla. Fi: Wish me luck! (a2) ++++ Sa: That makes sense. You didn't see him until you met up again. Fi: I know, but... Fi: Do you really think Shulk has changed that much? Sa: I don't mean it in a bad way. He's still basically the same guy. Fi: Well that's a relief. So he never stopped being kind and sweet... Sa: Not for a second. Sa: But that's not what I mean. It's subtle, but he's stronger now. Sa: I think it's because he knows he has to protect you from now on. Fi: That's reassuring! Fi: I'm glad he hasn't changed too much though. Fi: I would hate for Shulk to stop being Shulk. Sa: Maybe he tried really hard to stop himself from changing. Fi: That doesn't sound very practical. Sa: I meant, like, subconsciously. Sa: Maybe part of him really wanted to keep hold of who he was. Fi: You could well be right. Fi: Shulk's a kind enough person that deep down, he'd want to stay kind. Fi: Thanks for telling me about all this, Sharla. Sa: Don't worry. No thanks needed. Just hang in there, OK? (b) ---- Sa: Something up, Fiora? Fi: Yes! Something's definitely up! Fi: You see what my body's like now. Why would he pick me over Melia? Sa: Talk to me, Fiora. I'm a girl too, so I can relate. Fi: You can? (b1) No you can't! (b2) (b1) ++++ Sa: Yes. And I want you to remember something. Sa: None of us look at you as someone who needs our pity or anything. Fi: How can you speak for everyone? Sa: Because...I see it in their eyes. Especially Shulk's. Sa: He deeply regrets that he couldn't stop this happening to you. Sa: But his feelings for you are still clear as day. Fi: ... Sa: I'm sorry, that might make you worry that you're a burden to him. Sa: But you needed to know that. To know how he feels about you... Fi: I didn't realise any of this. Fi: I was convinced everyone just felt sorry for me, including him. Fi: I know you all care about me a lot. I guess I just read it a bit wrong! Sa: Well, it's hard for me to know for sure what anyone else is thinking. Sa: Or what you're thinking about what they're thinking... Fi: Even so... Fi: Listening to what you say makes me feel I was mistaken. Sa: Probably. But who can blame you for trusting what's in your heart? Fi: You're right! Thank you, Sharla! Fi: And if I ever look like I haven't understood something like this... Fi: Be sure to let me know! (b2) ---- Sa: Maybe that was a bit of a strong statement on my part. Fi: No, it's fine. Fi: Just...don't pity me or anything... Sa: I won't. I would never feel sorry for you. Sa: Wait, no. That came out wrong. Fi: Sharla, where are you going with this? Sa: I don't look at you and think you're someone that needs pity. Sa: But I care about you a lot, and I do worry about you. Sa: About your new body and...how things are going with Shulk. Sa: You probably think I should learn to mind my own business! Fi: Don't be silly! I don't think that. Fi: You're so nice to me, Sharla. Fi: Here I am complaining and you're just worried I'm OK. Sa: It's who I am. I'm glad I got to tell you about it. Sa: And sorry that I pulled you away from you-know-who! Fi: That's OK! I enjoyed chatting to you. We should do it more often! ============================================================================= A Family of Two Dd: Hey, Fiora! Dd: Can a big brother ask his little sister a question? Fi: Sure, Dunban. What is it? Dd: Has that body of yours really healed? Dd: Since you had that check-up you haven't said a word about it. Fi: Don't be silly. I'm clearly much better now. Dd: It doesn't look that way. Dd: But you're like me. You'll put up with anything and keep silent. Dd: So I'm saying you don't have to. If you're in pain, be honest with me. Fi: You caught me. (a) I'm not hiding anything. (b) (a) ++++ Dd: I knew it! So, tell me about it. Fi: I'm all right at the moment. I can't feel any pain. Fi: But...I can't hold out forever. Dd: So your body is giving up... Dd: Did you talk to Shulk or any of the others about this? Fi: I haven't told anyone else yet. How can I?! Fi: I couldn't stand it if they were worrying about me. Dd: I can see what you mean. Dd: I know how it feels. It wasn't long ago that I was out of action. Fi: There's more to it than that. (a1) It's awful, isn't it? (a2) (a1) ++++ Dd: What's this all of a sudden? Dd: I mean, you know better than anyone what state I was in. Fi: Yes. But this is a completely different situation. Dd: Fiora, I... Fi: Do you realise what's happened to me? Fi: I'll never get to grow old with the ones I love. Fi: This body could stop functioning next year, or next week. Fi: Or anytime, for all I know. Dd: I'm sorry. I guess I overstepped the mark a bit. Dd: But I still think you'll feel better if you talk about all this. Fi: No I won't, Dunban! Fi: Wait. Are you making me angry on purpose? Dd: I'm not good with words. I never say the right thing. Dd: That's why I figure making you blurt it out is the easiest way. Fi: You know...I'm sorry I was so rude to you just now. Fi: You're right. I do feel a little better getting it off my chest. Dd: Good. That's what I hoped. Dd: When you feel it bottling up, you can use me to sound off. Dd: I'll be your own personal punching bag. Fi: Then you better be ready. I think I have a lot to say. Fi: Thanks, Dunban! (a2) ---- Dd: Yeah. I hated not being able to make my body move how I wanted. Fi: Then you have some idea of what I'm going through. Dd: Indeed. Dd: But that doesn't mean I could ever understand exactly how you feel. Dd: To do that, I'd have to be you... Fi: Even I can't really answer that one. Fi: All I know is, I want everyone to treat me normally. Dd: And we will, Fiora. Dd: But stop trying to hide all this from everyone. Dd: They'll find out soon enough. Fi: When the time comes, I'll tell them. I have to. Dd: it's the right thing to do. And I'll be behind you all the way. Dd: It doesn't matter how they react. You'll be fine! I guarantee it! Fi: As much as it frightens me, I know you're probably right. Fi: Thank you, Dunban. (b) ---- Dd: This is me, your big brother. Do you think I wouldn't notice? Fi: I'm really not lying, Dunban. Don't worry so much. Dd: Are you absolutely sure? There's nothing you want to tell me? Fi: Yes. I feel fine. Dd: Well, if you say so, I believe you. Dd: But let me say this one thing... Fi: Go ahead. Dd: Burying the pain deep inside you will never free you from its chains. Fi: You say that, but... (b1) I know that. (b2) (b1) ---- Fi: Sometimes there's just nothing else you can do, you know? Dd: I wish I could do more to help you, Fiora. Fi: I know you do. Fi: I'm sorry I'm not being more open with you, but someday I will be, Dd: Take all the time you need. Dd: There's no use in forcing yourself to talk if you don't want to. Fi: Thanks. And again, I'm sorry. Dd: You don't need to apologise. You've done nothing wrong. Fi: I know, but... Dd: We're family. And we always stick together. Fi: You're right. You're always there for me, Dunban. Thanks. (b2) ++++ Fi: I'm glad you're looking out for me, Dunban. Dd: Of course I'm looking out for you! Dd: If I failed in my brotherly duties, I wouldn't be much of a big brother! Fi: I just don't like seeming too needy. Fi: I think you're the only one I could talk about this with. Dd: Even Shulk? I suppose I can see why, but... Dd: If you pluck up the courage and talk to him, I know he'll be OK. Dd: He's Shulk. He's generally quite predictable. Fi: I know, I know. He'll be as sweet as he always is. Fi: That's one of the things I like most about him. Fi: Do you like Shulk, Dunban? Dd: Yes, I do. But enough of this soppy chit-chat. Dd: You need to get your energy up and your confidence back. Dd: Now, let's go and find our friends. Fi: OK... Fi: I'm so happy you're my big brother. You know that, right? ============================================================================= Overcoming the Pain Me: Fiora... Can I talk to you about something? Me: Shulk told me you remember being inside that Mechon. Me: Is it true? Fi: Yes, I remember it all too well. Fi: Someone else was controlling my body, but I was conscious. Fi: I could see, hear and smell. Me: Then...do you know what that metal-faced Mechon did to me? Fi: He killed your father. Me: Yes. And when my father died, I realised something. Me: He loved me dearly. But I found that out much too late. Fi: And you regret that? (a) Why tell me this now? (b) (a) ++++ Me: I would be lying if I said no. Me: But I still have not come to terms with all that has happened. Me: I do not know how I truly feel. Fi: I can imagine. It must be very tough. Me: It is. Me: At the time, all I could think about was killing that Mechon... Fi: And you don't feel that way now? Me: I cannot say for certain. Me: Sometimes I feel myself becoming enraged when I recall that day. Me: But the rage is not as potent as it was then. Fi: How come? (a1) That's probably for the best. (a2) (a1) ---- Me: How can I put this? Me: It was seeing that madman die that opened my eyes to it all. Fi: Why? What went through your head the moment Mumkhar died? Me: Up till that very second, I was filled with rage. Then I changed. Me: Suddenly I felt...pity for him. Fi: You felt sorry for him? Me: He was driven by his obsession with the Monado. Me: To be more precise, it stemmed from his jealousy of Dunban. Me: He sacrificed his body and mind and it eventually led to his death. Fi: You believe he was jealous of Dunban? Fi: I never knew much about Mumkhar or how they knew each other. Fi: Something must have happened for that guy to change so much. Me: I do not think anyone remains who can answer all these questions. Me: That in itself is what made me realise... Me: Nothing good can come from revenge. Fi: I agree. And you know... Fi: Even if it's still difficult to come to terms with, you've made a start. Me: And I'm glad I have. Me: In some twisted way, I have that man's death to thank for it. Me: Fiora... Thank you for listening to me. Fi: Don't thank me. I learnt more from you than you did from me! Fi: And I like talking with you anyway. Thanks, Melia. (a2) ++++ Me: I suppose so... Me: Before, vengeance was all I could think of. Me: But I realised it would lead to nothing good. Fi: What changed? Me: It was something Shulk said to me. Me: And what he did, too. Me: Shulk risked his own life to stop Dunban from killing him. Fi: Shulk stopped Dunban? But Dunban's bigger and stronger. Me: Shulk is growing day by day! You'll notice that soon enough. Fi: And that's why you realised killing Mumkhar was wrong? Me: Yes. And the others realised too. Shulk changed us all... Fi: Shulk can have a powerful effect on people. Fi: Melia...can we make a pact? Fi: I want us to keep sharing all these things we don't know. Me: That is a lovely idea. Me: Ask me anything, and I will ask you anything as well. Fi: Thanks, Melia! Hanging out will be fun! (b) ---- Me: I do not know. Me: But...I am unsure how I should deal with these emotions. Fi: Why not look inside yourself? Fi: Dunban always tells me that. Search your own feelings first. Me: That is sage advice. Me: I hope it will help me find the answer I am looking for. Fi: I hope so too, Melia. And do you know what? Fi: You probably already have the answer! You just don't know it yet. Me: (I might...already have the answer?) Fi: Has that helped at all? (b1) I expected you need more time. (b2) (b1) ++++ Me: Yes. I simply needed a push in the right direction. Thank you. Fi: If you don't mind telling me, I'd love to know what you figured out. Me: I do not mind at all. This is what I realised... Me: I must never let anyone else experience the pain that I have. Fi: The pain of losing a parent? Me: Not just that. Me: I wish to build a world free of war, where no one must risk their lives. Fi: That's very ambitious, Melia. Fi: Do you really think you can do it? Me: It will not be easy, and I cannot do it alone. Me: But I will be Alcamoth's next ruler. Me: If I do not take up this challenge, who will? Fi: You're amazing, Melia. You don't shy from anything. Fi: And if you need any help, I'll be there in an instant. Fi: We're friends. I'll be there for you. Me: Thank you. Your words give me confidence. Fi: Leave it to little old Fiora! Fi: And don't worry! I'll drag Shulk and Reyn along to help as well! (b2) ---- Me: Yes. I sense that the answer is trapped somewhere inside of me. Fi: I hate it when that happens. Me: But I feel I may be close to figuring it out. Fi: I know the feeling. Like it's on the tip of your tongue, right? Fi: But you can't force it. You'll never find it that way. Me: You speak with wisdom, Fiora. Me: I agree. The answer will come to me on its own. Me: All I need is patience. Fi: That's the spirit! Me: Thank you, Fiora. You have reassured me a great deal. Me: Would you mind if I continued to confide in you from now on? Fi: You don't even need to ask! It would be my pleasure, Melia. ============================================================================= Eternal Scars Me: Dunban... I don't know how to ask this... Dd: What is it, Melia? Me: The man in the metal-faced Mechon... Mumkhar I think? Me: Were you and he acquainted before he became that...thing? Dd: What difference does it make? (a) We were comrades-in-arms. (b) (a) ---- Me: W-well... Dd: I apologise. I didn't mean to sound so defensive. Dd: I just don't quite understand the relevance of your question. Me: It's difficult to explain. Me: But I need to know. I must know, Dunban. Me: He murdered my father, yet I know nothing about him. Dd: I understand, Melia. I'm sorry. Dd: I should have spoken to you about this sooner. Me: Thank you. Me: I know it's not easy for you to talk about him. Dd: It will never be easy! (a1) I'm fine. Ask away. (a2) (a1) ---- Dd: Not after what he did to our home! And to Fiora! * Me: Believe me, I know. He stole my father from me as well. Dd: I doubt the day when I forgive him will ever come, Melia. Me: Just as long as you understand the danger of living in the past. Dd: I do. I know if I live with hate in my heart, I'm no better than him. Dd: He became consumed by his hatred for me. And he died for it... Me: I see... Dd: It was Shulk who showed me the light. Dd: I'd have gone down a dark path otherwise. Dd: I'd have taken Mumkhar's life. Dd: I'm very grateful to Shulk. I hope I can repay the favour one day. Me: I feel much the same way. Me: Let us work together to live by Shulk's example. (a2) ++++ Dd: I am partly responsible, after all. Me: You? What do you mean? Dd: He changed right around the time I started using the Monado. Dd: He coveted it so much that his jealousy consumed him. Dd: If I'm honest, I wasn't completely oblivious to this. But I didn't act. Dd: And then it was too late. Me: You should not blame yourself. Me: The darkness that haunted his heart was to blame. Me: He was lost long ago, it seems. Dd: I just wish that fool had realised. Dd: I wasn't the true heir to the Monado, Shulk was! Dd: He never should have had a reason to hate either of us... Me: Dunban... Dd: I shouldn't get emotional. Dd: You probably didn't want me to go on about the old days like this. Me: Actually I found great value in it. Thank you, Dunban. (b) ++++ Dd: One year ago, he and I risked our lives fighting the Mechon. Dd: But when the battle turned, he chose to make a run for it. Me: So he was a cowardly man? Dd: He was always fairly unreliable. Dd: Deep down I knew that one day he'd fail us in a time of need. Dd: But in the battle a year ago, he still seemed to be on our side. Me: What do you mean, Dunban? Me: Are you saying he wasn't the monster he became? Dd: Whatever his reasons... Dd: That day, he was fighting off those machines as hard as we were. Me: That is...difficult to believe. Dd: You would not understand. (b1) I know the truth. (b2) (b1) ---- Me: Hmph. That may well be what you think, Dunban. Dd: I apologise, Melia. My words are not meant to hurt. Dd: But I knew him, and I can only tell you what I saw. Me: Do you think he had a reason for fighting? Someone to protect? Dd: I've often thought about that. Dd: He is originally from another colony. One destroyed long ago. Dd: So in theory, he had nothing to lose. Maybe that's all it was... Me: Perhaps you are right. Me: Whatever the reasons, his atrocities can never be justified. Dd: Of course. Dd: I suppose it would be futile to think too hard about it. Me: Dunban... Does it hurt to remember? Dd: Hmph. I didn't mean for you to worry over this. Dd: This is one of many tales of battle. A neverending circle of betrayal. Me: If you say so. Me: But I look forward to the day that our world is free of way. (b2) ++++ Dd: That's why I'm so full of regret. Maybe I could have stopped him. Me: You mustn't blame yourself. You could not have stopped this. Dd: Perhaps. But it's complicated. Dd: I can't deny that he was a bit of an...unreliable fellow. Dd: But he saved my life countless times. Dd: After I took up the Monado there was a definite change in him. Me: He was taken its power. I pity him. Dd: I just with he'd realised. Dd: I wasn't the true heir to the Monado, Shulk was! Dd: He never should have had a reason to hate either of us... Me: Dunban... Dd: (Mumkhar, I doubt I'll ever forgive you for what you did...) Dd: (But I'll never forget you and I hope you can find peace...) ============================================================================= Just Like Old Times Fi: Erm, Shulk...? Fi: Can I ask you a favour? Just a little one. Sk: Absolutely. If you think it's something I can help with, I mean. Fi: Yes! It has to be you! Sk: This sounds important... What do you need me to do? Fi: When I get my real body back... (a) Never mind. It’s fine. (b) (a) ---- Sk: Oh, is there something special you want to do? Fi: Yeah. I want to come back here and hang out with you. Fi: It'll be great! Will you come with me? Sk: I'd love to! It would be really nice to come here again. Fi: Oh, it'll be wonderful, Shulk! Fi: We'll see this beautiful shore again and just...dive right in! Sk: I've thought about it too. Sk: We can all come here together as soon as we've finished fighting! Fi: You mean...with the others? (a1) Y-yeah. If you like... (a2) (a1) ++++ Sk: Is something wrong, Fiora? You look a little...upset. Fi: Shulk, you stupid... Oooh, you just can't take a hint, can you? Fi: I meant just the two of us! Sk: Oops! Sorry. Fi: Yes 'oops'! Oops indeed! Fi: When are you going to realise? A lady needs careful attention. Sk: S-sorry, Fiora. I'll bear that in mind from now on. Fi: Will you? Then tell me... What should you say next? Sk: Umm... I know this one. Sk: I would be honoured if you, Fiora, would accompany me here again. Fi: Hmm... I'll give you 7/10. Nice try. For you that's a pass, though. Fi: Next time you'd better bowl me over with a 10/10. Sk: Wh-what? Well, umm... OK. Sk: I'll do my best to put a big smile on that beautiful face of yours. Fi: Hehe. I shall be waiting, Shulk. You'd better not disappoint! (a2) ---- Sk: You look a bit off-colour. Are you sure you're feeling all right? Fi: I don't feel ill, if that's what you're asking. Fi: I just wondered why we can't come here...you know...together. Sk: Just me and you?! But that would mean... Fi: What, Shulk? Fi: Has a little light switched on in that big brain of yours? Sk: Oh, I get what you mean. You love the seaside too much to share! Fi: I cannot believe it. You still don't get a thing. Fi: I'll spell it out for you. Fi: You know how you travelled Bionis without me while I was gone? Fi: I thought we could sneak away together, like when we were kids. Fi: Do some travelling on our own. Sk: When you put it like that, I can't wait. I wish we could go sooner. Sk: But we'll always be together, so there's plenty of time. Fi: Yeah, that's true. Fi: We'll have loads of time to spend together. Fi: So...let's make the most of it! Heehee! Sk: Don't worry, we will! Sk: I'm gonna drag you to so many places you'll get sick of it! Fi: Haha! Is that a promise? It sounds like a lot of fun! (b) ++++ Sk: Are you sure, Fiora? Sk: I don't mind what it is. Just ask if you need to. Fi: You sure you won't mind? Sk: Something's really bothering you. Sk: You never used to hide stuff from me back at the colony. Fi: I know I didn't, but...that was a long time ago, Shulk. Fi: And if I tell you, I know you'll get angry. Sk: Maybe, maybe not. But you'll have to ask to find out. Sk: So...what's it to be? Fi: OK. Here I go. (b1) I'm sorry. I can't. (b2) (b1) ++++ Fi: Just don't get mad. Please. Fi: We talked about this before, but... if my body doesn't last... Sk: Fiora! Stop right there! You said you wouldn't worry. Fi: That's why I told you not to get mad! Fi: I know this isn't the first time the subject's come up. Fi: But how do you know I'll ever be like I was before all this? Sk: I don't care about any of that. Sk: None of it matters as long as I get to be with you. Sk: You'll always be my Fiora. Fi: *Turns away* What about everyone else? You're fine with it, but other Homs... Fi: I know what they'll think of me. Fi: And I don't want them to tar you with the same brush. Sk: Then we'll move to somewhere they can't look at you. Sk: Reyn and Dunban would follow us. I know they would. Fi: Shulk... Thank you. Fi: Hearing you say that makes me happy inside. Fi: But I can't drag everyone away from their own lives. Sk: Maybe not. But I'll be there with you either way. Fi: Really? You'd leave everyone else...for me? Fi: You're not just saying that to make me feel better? Sk: No. I promise I'll never leave you. Sk: So you have to promise me that you'll never forget it. (b2) ---- Sk: It's alright, Fiora. If it's too difficult you don't have to worry. Fi: I want to tell you...but I think you might get mad. Fi: Promise me you won't get angry. Promise me, Shulk. Sk: OK, OK. I promise. Sk: Whatever you tell me, I won't get mad at you. Fi: So...the thing is...you know I have a Machina body. Fi: And I was wondering about...us. Fi: We won't be able to grow old together, like old people do. Sk: I hadn't thought of that... But so what? Fi: That's why I wanted to tell you... Fi: You need to find someone you CAN grow old with. Sk: What? I don't care about that. You know I don't care, right? Fi: But listen to me, Shulk. Fi: You've been good to me, and I have feelings for you but... Fi: It's getting complicated and... Sk: Fiora, it's all gonna be OK. Sk: I'll look after you for as long as we're both alive. Sk: No matter what happens to us, my feelings for you won't change. Fi: Do you really mean that? Fi: Then I won't keep going on. I'm sorry I said those things. Fi: Knowing that you'll stay with me for as long as possible... Fi: It makes me very glad. Sk: I know it won't be easy. It's a rocky road ahead. Sk: But as long as we're honest with each other, I know we'll be fine. Fi: I won't forget that. Thank you, Shulk! ============================================================================= Camping Spot Ri: Riki and friends camp here once! Riki talked to Dundun for ages! Ri: Riki catch fish for Dundun and Dundun say, 'Yum yum!' Me: Is that so? Me: I expect you stayed up rather late chatting away under then moonlight! Ri: Melly right! Ri: But Melly shut eyes very early so Melly not eat any grill fish. Me: What is 'grill fish', Riki? Ri: Melly not know? Ri: Grill fish so yum yum that Dundun's eyes pop out! Me: Most intriguing. (a) That sounds gruesome. (b) (a) ++++ Ri: Melly must eat! Melly not forget taste later! Me: You've definitely piqued my interest! Me: If you recommend it that highly, I will have to give it a try. Ri: Yay! Melly be very happy! Ri: Riki find yum yum fish for Melly to eat. Me: Teehee. Why thank you, Riki! Me: But we have places to go. Me: We should leave your culinary delights until another time. Ri: Boooring! Riki catch it now! Grill fish tastier than tasty! Me: But how will you catch it? (a1) I appreciate the offer, but no. (a2) (a1) ++++ Ri: Leave it to Riki! Ri: Riki splish splash in water and get fish really quick! Me: I doubt you will catch a fish as easily as that. Ri: Melly wrong! Splish splash not easy! Ri: But Riki has the bestest flip flap wings in all of village! Me: Splish splash, flip flap? Me: Are you sure about this, Riki? Me: What if something happens? We're the only ones here. Ri: Riki will set ground on fire too! Ri: Melly can sit and wait for Riki's special grill fish. Me: I can see you won't be persuaded. Me: I suppose I have no choice but to wait for your return, Riki. Ri: Melly will love fish! Riki return very soon! *leaves* Me: He seems a tad too excited... Me: But I hope he's going to cook up a storm! Me: Hmm. Perhaps I will regret saying that... (a2) ---- Ri: Riki know Melly want to eat! Melly MUST eat! Me: I like to try new things, but... Me: Don't we have more important things to do? Ri: Important things wait! Riki very quick at catching fish! Me: Calm down, Riki. I only meant that I do not want to eat right now. Me: I can still try it another time. Ri: But...but...but... OK. So Melly have it later? Me: I would love to! Thank you, Riki. Ri: Riki promise! Ri: Riki catch lots and lots of fish and bring them all to Melly! Me: I can't wait! (b) ---- Ri: Melly mean! Why Melly so mean?! Me: Oh, I'm sorry, Riki. Me: The way you described it just sounded a little too much for me. Ri: Melly not want to eat fish? Fish not yum yum? Me: Well... The thing is, this 'grill fish' of yours sounds a little plain. Ri: But that why it tastes yum yum! Ri: Melly should close her eyes and then eat fish! Me: Eat it blindfolded?! (b1) That sounds like a bad idea. (b2) (b1) ---- Ri: Oooh. Melly shout at Riki! Me: You expect me to eat something I cannot even see? Me: You are failing to persuade me. Ri: Riki sorry. Riki just want Melly to eat fish... Me: If I ate it begrudgingly, that would be disrespectful to the fish. Ri: Riki think so too. In that case Melly should not eat fish! Ri: Next time Riki find food Melly like lots and lots. Me: That sounds like a great idea. You can make my favourite! Ri: Riki can't wait to cook for Melly! Ri: Heropon always learn from mistakes. Me: How very big of you, Riki. I look forward to it! (b2) ++++ Ri: Melly not like Riki's idea? Me: If you say it tastes delicious, I have no reason to doubt you. Me: But I admit blindfolding myself sounds rather adventurous. Ri: Riki only grill fish, Melly. Melly gobble it all up fast! Me: Do you really expect me to eat something I cannot even see? Me: I am afraid of your skills of persuasion are somewhat lacking. Ri: Riki sorry. Riki just want Melly to eat fish... Me: Cooking for someone is all about learning their likes and dislikes. Me: You cook for the person who eats. Ri: Riki understand. Melly not upset now? Ri: Riki sorry for blindfold idea. Me: I'm not upset, Riki. Me: I still want to eat your food, even if it's strange and unusual. Ri: OK, Melly! Riki cook a storm! Ri: Riki make Melly's stomach big and round with yum yum food! ============================================================================= Those Waiting For You Ri: Look, Shulk! Look! Ri: Hidden Village get really small! Sk: It sure looks tiny from here. Sk: I can't believe we were down there not so long ago. Sk: What a view! Ri: Amaaazing! Riki see Bionis so well from here! Ri: Riki think can see part where Oka and littlepon are! Sk: I think you're right. Sk: All your family are waiting for the day you come home. Sk: But...things are different for me. Ri: What wrong, Shulk? (a) Stop silly talk, Shulk! (b) (a) ++++ Ri: Shulk not look happy. Ri: Shulk need to talk to uncle Riki! Sk: Maybe I should... Sk: But I kinda feel like you wouldn't understand. Ri: No! Riki understand everything! Ri: Believe in Riki, Shulk! Sk: That was mean. I'm sorry. (a1) OK. Here's the thing... (a2) (a1) ---- Sk: I can't really tell you everything. Sk: It still hurts to remember it... Ri: Shulk not trust Riki? Ri: But Shulk knows Riki has eleven littlepon! Sk: Why are you eager, anyway? Ri: Riki not want to see Shulk's upside-down smile! Ri: Hiding feelings is bad for soul! Shulk should let it all out! Sk: I guess, but... Ri: But also Riki know that Shulk must want to talk. Ri: So Riki wait for good day when Shulk talk to Riki. Sk: Thanks, Riki. Sk: When I feel I'm ready, I'll let you know. Sk: You cool with that? Ri: Riki very cool! Ri: Riki and Shulk very best friends. Ri: Friends always listen to friends. And Riki and Shulk best friends! Ri: Shulk want go back now? Dundun and all friends will be worried. *leaves* Sk: (You're a good friend, Riki.) (a2) ++++ Sk: My parents died a long time ago. Sk: So when I go home, there won't be anyone waiting... Ri: That is big shame... Ri: RIKI SUDDEN REALISE! Ri: Riki have good idea! Sk: What is it, Riki? Ri: Riki become Shulk's daddypon! Ri: Then Shulk get new mamapon too! Live like happy family! Sk: ...Wh-what was that, Riki?! Ri: Shulk use big Hom Hom brain! Ri: Shulk can live with Riki and Oka, then Shulk have family waiting! Ri: Shulk never get sad again! Sk: ... Ri: Shulk not like Riki's idea? Ri: Riki very, very sorry, Shulk. Riki only want to see Shulk happy. Sk: No, it's not that. Sk: Thank you, Riki. Thank you so much. Sk: No one's ever asked me to be a part of their family... Ri: Shulk not worry anymore! Ri: Riki want to always see big Hom Hom smile from ear to ear! Ri: Then Shulk go show Melly and all friends smile to cheer them up! *leaves* Sk: Why wait, Riki? I'll go and show them right now! Sk: (You're a great friend, Riki.) (b) ---- Ri: Shulk be very silly Hom Hom! Sk: What did I say?! Ri: Shulk need to remember all stuff that happen with friends. Ri: Shulk will realise something if he think really, really hard! Sk: About our journeys together? (b1) How is this relevant? (b2) (b1) ++++ Ri: Yes! Ri: Shulk meet lots and lots of new people on his travels. Ri: All Shulk's new friends will be waiting to see Shulk again! Sk: Really? You think they'll still remember me? Ri: Yes! Of course remember Shulk! Ri: So Shulk must not forget to remember friends either! Ri: Or Riki go Heropon mad at Shulk! Sk: Then I'd better not forget! Sk: Thank you, Riki. You've helped me realise something important. Sk: I have my very own family already. Ri: Heropon need no thanks! Ri: Ah! Riki forget Dundun want him! Ri: Now Riki get biff bash on head... *leaves* Sk: He's a funny one... Sk: But thanks, Riki. I owe you one. (b2) ---- Sk: I remember it all, but... Sk: What's that got to do with what we were talking about? Ri: Shulk still not understand? Riki start water leak from eyes... Sk: Why is this getting you down? Sk: What did I say to make you feel like this? Tell me. Ri: Shulk really, REALLY not know? Ri: Shulk meet many, many new friends on travels. Ri: All Shulk's friends will be waiting for Shulk to come back! Ri: Riki need Shulk to understand. Riki know in his heart truth! Sk: Ah! I understand now. Sk: Otharon, Juju and even the people of Hidden Village... Ri: Yes! Well done, Shulk! Ri: So Shulk stop saying silly things and put smile on Hom Hom face. Sk: Wow! I'm kinda embarrassed. How did I miss that? Ri: Shulk know now! Ri: Come on, Hom Hom. Back to work! Sk: I'm right behind you, Riki. Sk: And I'm gonna give the others a great big hug when I see them! Sk: (I owe you one, Riki. Thanks!) ============================================================================= Fiora's Body Sa: Hey, Fiora... I wanted to ask you something. Fi: What is it, Sharla? Ask away! Sa: Your...new body... Sa: It's not...malfunctioning, is it? Fi: What? Sa: It's just, you don't look like you're doing so well... Fi: I'm doing great! Don't worry! (a) Sorry. Is it that obvious? (b) (a) ---- Sa: Come on now, Fiora. Sure you're not hiding anything from me? Fi: ... Sa: I know a little about this, y'know? Sa: Linada gave me a great book on Machina anatomical circuitry. Fi: Why would you need that? Sa: I'm studying to become a doctor. Sa: I'll have to leave the Defence Force, but it's what I want to do. Sa: More and more people are returning to Colony 6. Sa: They'll need a doctor. Fi: You definitely fit the bill! Sa: The truth is, I figured something out recently. Sa: It was Meyneth who kept your cardio-pulmonary functions going. Sa: Am I right? Fi: Yes. Meyneth gave me strength. (a1) No, I'm fine without her. (a2) (a1) ++++ Fi: I guess you found out my secret! Sa: Why didn't you say something?! Sa: Wait. No need to answer that. I know you hate worrying people. Fi: Sorry, Sharla. Fi: I really didn't want to cause a fuss. Sa: I know exactly how you feel. Sa: But that doesn't mean you should hide important things like that! Fi: All I want is to be with Shulk and the rest of you. Fi: I couldn't bear to be alone... Fi: What if I leave everyone to go and rest, and...something happens? Fi: This might be my last chance to be with you all. I'm scared, Sharla. Sa: Fiora! You can't think like that! Fi: When the time is right, I'll tell everybody. Fi: For now, I don't want you to tell a soul, Sharla. Sa: ...All right. I won't tell anyone. Sa: But you have to promise me not to give up hope. Sa: We will find a way to help you, Fiora. Whatever it takes! Sa: I swear we'll never give up on you! Fi: Sharla, I...don't know what to say. (a2) ---- Fi: So there's no need to make such a fuss over me! Sa: Fiora, do you want me to get angry? Fi: No, of course not... Sa: Right. I can't force you to talk. And I understand your feelings. Sa: But you can shut up and listen, and if you don't like it, so be it. Sa: Whatever happens to us, we will not let you die, Fiora. Sa: Never give up hope. You will be well again, Fiora. Fi: Sharla... Sa: Just remember that. Fi: I will. Thank you, Sharla. (b) ++++ Sa: I knew it! So you are experiencing some malfunctions? Fi: ... Sa: I didn't mention it before, but Linada is teaching me Machina anatomy. Fi: Why do you need to know that? Sa: Because when this is all over... Sa: I'm going to quit the Defence Force and become a doctor. Sa: People are returning to Colony 6. They'll need a doctor. Fi: Wow! That's amazing! Sa: I know that without Meyneth's Monado, your energy is depleted. Sa: You only have a small reserve left now. Fi: Apparently so. Sa: How can you be so laid back about this?! Sa: You should be back in Linada's infirmary, not here, doing this! Fi: You're right. I should go. (b1) No. I'm fine here. (b2) (b1) ++++ Sa: Good. I'm glad you agree. Fi: But I won't, Sharla. Fi: I'm grateful for your concern, but I can't leave now. Sa: You have to, Fiora! Fi: I've made up my mind. Fi: I will fight to the end...and when the end comes, I'll be with Shulk. Sa: Fiora! Fi: Sharla, please! This is my decision. Sa: Well...I can't argue with that. But I haven't given up hope, OK? Sa: I'll do everything in my power to make you right again. Sa: I promise, Fiora! Fi: I know you will. Thank you, Sharla...for everything. (b2) ---- Sa: Listen to me, Fiora! Sa: If you don't get treatment now, you might not make it! Fi: I'm sorry, Sharla. I don't want to make you worry like this. Fi: But I can't go back. I can't. Sa: You're throwing your life away! Fi: But I can't leave Shulk. Not now. Fi: If this body stops working and he's not by my side... Sa: Fiora! Fi: That's my decision, Sharla. Stupid or otherwise. Sa: It's not as if I don't understand how you're feeling. Sa: But you can't give up hope that someday we can fix you. Sa: Promise me you won't give up. I will save you, Fiora! Fi: Don't worry, Sharla. I don't intend to give up. ============================================================================= Kind Words Me: ... Ri: Melly, cheer up! Cheer up, Melly! Me: Oh, Riki... It's you. Me: Why are you looking at me like that? Do not be worried. Ri: B-b-but Melly! Melly have frowny frowny frown face! Me: You've seen right through me. (a) I do not know what you mean. (b) (a) ++++ Me: I was thinking about my father and brother. It still hurts... Ri: Melly's daddypon great Bird Man! And brotherpon too! Ri: Riki liked very much! Me: Hehe. You did, did you? That is sweet of you, Riki. Me: I am proud of them too, as a daughter and a sister. Me: I remember them both fondly... Ri: ... Me: Something wrong, Riki? Ri: Riki very sad he fail at help Melly's family... Ri: Big Heropon failure! Me: Arguably. (a1) That is simply not true. (a2) (a1) ---- Ri: Maybe Riki pass Heropon title to Oka now. Me: (So Oka is next in line to be Heropon?) Me: Sorry, Riki. Me: I spoke out of turn. You are not to blame. Ri: What Melly mean? Me: The title of Heropon has been difficult to live up to. Me: But I know you put your heart into being the Heropon, Riki. Ri: B-b-but, Riki not save Melly's family... Me: But you have saved me more than once. Me: Be proud of your achievements. I think you're a great warrior! Ri: Melly say such nice things! Riki thank Melly. Ri: Riki try harder from now! Ri: Riki not want Melly be sad again! Me: That's the Riki I remember! Thank you, Riki. You are sweet. (a2) ++++ Me: Hmm... This is not like you, Riki. Me: Where is that famous Heropon spirit I know so well? Ri: It get lost. Maybe Riki drop it somewhere. Me: You should not let this bother you to such an extent. Me: Life is all about learning to come to terms with things. Me: As I have with the passing of my father and brother. Ri: Melly strong Bird Lady! Ri: Riki want to be like Melly! Me: Glad to have my Heropon back. I was wondering where he'd gone! Ri: Riki stop moaning from now! Ri: Riki be there for Melly as warrior and friend! Me: And I appreciate it, Riki. Thank you. (b) ---- Me: I am feeling positively ebullient. Now, let us return to the others. Ri: Riki think Melly lying! Me: What makes you say that? Ri: Riki like Melly very much. And Riki know Melly very much! Ri: Melly not hide from Riki. Me: I suppose... But you still seem far too confident about this. Ri: When Riki still littlepon, Chief Dunga teach Riki important lesson. Ri: 'Lie to self and heart get heavy.' Ri: If Melly lie to self lots and lots, heart get too heavy for body! Ri: Then Melly is big useless lump! Me: That makes a lot of sense. (b1) I must simply live with that. (b2) (b1) ++++ Me: Thank you for sharing your people's wisdom with me, Riki. Ri: So Melly will talk to Riki about her feelings? Me: I would love to do so freely, but it is never that simple. Me: A person in my position has certain constraints set upon them. Ri: Person in princess position? Me: Exactly. Me: I was brought up in a certain way and in a particular environment. Me: So...I need time, Riki. Me: Time to learn how to live with more freedom than I am used to. Ri: Melly look small bit better now! Me: Each second I'm with you makes my heart feel lighter and lighter! Ri: Melly say nice things about Riki! Riki very happy! Me: As am I, Riki. As am I. (b2) ---- Ri: Melly not listen! Big lump! That is bad thing! Me: No, I understand you well, Riki. I hear your words. Me: But someone in my position is not afforded such luxuries. Ri: Oh no! Then Melly one day get squished by own heart! Me: Do not worry, Riki. I have you here to keep that from happening. Me: You can carry my heart for me. Ri: Hmm... OK! Ri: Riki will help Melly carry heart and look after Melly in battle too! Ri: Heropon to the rescue! Me: Hehe. You are very sweet. Thank you, Riki. ============================================================================= Before the Final Battle Fi: Something wrong, Shulk? You look like you're a million miles away. Sk: ... Fi: Shulk? You in there? Sk: Oh! Hey, Fiora! What's up? Fi: Hellooo. I just asked you that! You feeling OK? Sk: Sorry. I was just thinking... Fi: You've been like this since we got here. Sk: Haha. You don't miss a thing, do you? Fi: Nope. And I know exactly what's been on your mind. Fi: It's Dickson, isn't it? (a) You're worried about me. (b) (a) ---- Sk: No, not just him. But that's partly it. Fi: It's not easy. We all thought of him as our friend. Sk: I just don't know anymore, Fiora. Sk: One second I resent him and the next I remember who he is... Sk: What am I supposed to feel? I don't know anymore... Fi: It must be hard to think about fighting him. Sk: Very. I just hope there's some way I can avoid it... Fi: There might not be... (a1) I'm sure there will be! (a2) (a1) ++++ Sk: Yeah. Deep down I know we have to go through him to get to Zanza. Fi: That's right, Shulk. Fi: He won't stand down for anyone. Not even you. Sk: Don't worry. I'll give as good as I get. Sk: Even if that means he has to die... Fi: And I'll be right by your side, ready to fight to the end with you. Fi: But I don't think you should forget about all the good times you had. Fi: With Dickson, I mean. I still believe those are real. Sk: You do? Fi: It's complicated, I know. Fi: Sometimes you just wish you could forget all the bad memories. Fi: But you have to keep hold of them. Fi: The good ones and the bad... They're all tied together. Sk: Fiora... Sk: I...I know what you mean. I won't let go of those memories. Fi: Um, Shulk... You won't ever forget about me, will you? Sk: Hey, where did that come from? Sk: I could never, ever forget about you. Fi: Yeah, I guess not. Sorry. Fi: Now, let's go and find the others. They're probably getting worried. (a2) ---- Sk: Really? That sounds...unlikely. Fi: If it's gonna be too tough for you, why make it hard on yourself? Fi: He was like a father to you, right? Fi: Let us take care of him instead. You can hang back, wait for us! Sk: I know what you're saying, Fiora. Sk: But I can't let you do that. Sk: I've been thinking about what happened before... Sk: And I reckon maybe Dickson doesn't care about Zanza at all... Fi: What makes you say that? Sk: I think...he just wants to kill me. Sk: He's realised that I don't need the Monado to defeat him. Sk: And that scares him. That's why he wants to end this. Fi: There's no looking back now... Sk: No. We move forward or perish. Sk: We got ourselves into this mess, we have to get ourselves out. Fi: I wish there could be another way. Fi: You were like father and son... Sk: Fiora... Fi: Sorry, Shulk. I didn't mean to upset you. Changing the subject... Fi: Why don't we go find the others? They're probably waiting for us. (b) ++++ Sk: Yes. How did you know? Fi: All I had to do was look at your face. I could feel the worry... Sk: Just by looking at me?! That's pretty amazing. Fi: I was joking, Shulk. Hehe! Thank you, though. Fi: But I've been feeling much better, so stop worrying so much! Sk: Well...if you're feeling better... Fi: Hey, Shulk... Do you think I'll ever be 100% Homs again? Sk: No doubt! Of course you will. I will make it happen. Fi: Oh, Shulk! Thank you! (b1) I know you can't promise that. (b2) (b1) ++++ Fi: I don't know what I would do without you! Sk: When this is all over, we'll find a way. Fi: Whenever we make camp I see you with your head in a book. Fi: The other night you didn't sleep. Are you doing all this for me? Sk: Yeah, but it's nothing. Sk: I always get carried away when I fixate on one thing. Sk: It's a bad habit of mine... Fi: But you must be so exhausted from all the fighting! Sk: Don't worry, Fiora. I'm fine. Sk: It did some good, because now I've learnt a few things. Fi: Really? Like what? Sk: The key is combining Machina and High Entia technologies. Sk: Miqol gave me a book explaining the joint research they did. Sk: It was years and years ago, but it covered all sorts of fields. Sk: I don't know much about medicine, but Sharla and Linada do. Sk: I'll get them to help. Fi: Shulk... Sk: S-sorry, Fiora. Sk: This stuff is really boring, huh? Fi: No...it's not. Sk: ...Fiora? Sk: Are you...crying? Fi: Yes. But these are tears of joy. I don't know what to say... Fi: When I get my body back... Fi: Let's go have another picnic at the park in the colony! Sk: Sure thing, Fiora. It's a date. Sk: One day, I promise. (b2) ---- Fi: I know you think you can do it all, but even you have your limits. Sk: You don't believe me? Come on! Fi: I'm not saying you're lying, Shulk! I wish you'd listen sometimes! * Sk: OK! OK already! Sk: I'm really sorry, Fiora. I just don't want you to be worried. Sk: I know I have the power to see this through. Sk: That's my promise to you, Fiora. Fi: Really? You promise? Sk: Yep. And have you ever known me to go back on a promise? Fi: Hehe. I guess not. Fi: Thank you, Shulk. You've filled me with hope. Sk: I'm glad you say that. Sk: I know it's tough, but you can never give up hope. Sk: When this is all over... When there's peace at last... Fi: You don't have to say another word. I trust you, Shulk. ============================================================================= Untold Feelings Sa: Hey, Melia... Sa: I wanted to talk to you. About...you-know-who. Me: You mean Shulk? Sa: Yeah. I was wondering about... you and him, you know? Me: You're being rather vague, Sharla. What were you wondering? Sa: Well, you know... About Shulk... Sa: Do you still like him? (a) Have you given up? (b) (a) ++++ Me: Could you not have simply asked in the first place? Me: Well...I do have something I need to tell you. Sa: You had a breakthrough?! Oh, this is great! Me: Not a breakthrough, Sharla. Me: In fact, quite the opposite. I have decided to give up. Sa: You don't want to pursue him? Sa: Did you at least tell him how you feel? Me: I did not. He remains blissfully unaware. Sa: That is just like you, Melia. (a1) That breaks my heart. (a2) (a1) ++++ Sa: Always thinking of others, but secretly hurting inside. Me: I-it's not that bad. Sa: You don't fool me for a second. Sharla can tell from a mile away. Me: How do you do that? Me: All right. I admit it has been hard. Me: I have already lived for a great number of years. Me: But never before have I experienced these emotions. Sa: I'm truly sorry, Melia. I wish I could have done more to help. Sa: I should have paid more attention to how you were doing. Me: You are not at fault here, Sharla. Me: You have already lost someone. My hurt cannot compare to that. Sa: Melia... Me: I have decided that Shulk and Fiora deserve a future together. Me: So I shall watch from afar and wish them every happiness. Sa: Well...it's a shame, but maybe it's for the best. Sa: And I've no doubt those two will be really happy together. (a2) ---- Sa: How can you just give up without telling him how you feel? Sa: You'll only live to regret it. Me: Will I? I am not so sure. Me: I feel I may be happier this way. Sa: Hmm. Well, if you're sure... Me: I am. I know that I will cherish the time I spent with Shulk forever. Me: My task is clear. Me: I must see Shulk and Fiora achieve true happiness together. Sa: That makes sense I suppose. Sa: And anyway, everything'll be fine! We're going to find you a nice lad. Sa: Imagine the queue for a chance to date a pretty girl like you! Sa: It'd probably stretch around both feet of the Bionis! Me: You really think so? Me: Thank you, Sharla! I hope you find love again... Me: Maybe even with...you know... Sa: What was that? With who, Melia? Me: Do not worry, Sharla. It will come to you... (b) ---- Me: Hah. What chance do I have? Me: Do you honestly think there is any room in Shulk's heart for me? Sa: Why would you say that? Me: Fiora admitted to me her feelings. She...wants to be with Shulk. Me: I will never best her. Sa: So she told you... Me: Yet I feel...strangely relieved. Me: As if I can move on with my life and forget this pain in my heart. Sa: Stop putting on a brave face! (b1) I agree. It's for the best. (b2) (b1) ---- Sa: If you didn't do that all the time, things might go better for you. Me: Whatever do you mean?! Sa: If you opened yourself up a bit, shared your doubts with others. Sa: Before today, I doubted whether you could handle it all, Melia. Sa: You're always telling everyone else not to worry about you. Me: We are who we are. Me: I find it difficult to change, as all of us do. Sa: Well, I'm only trying to give you some friendly advice. Sa: I'd never want you to change too drastically. None of us would. Sa: We all like you just how you are! Me: Thank you for saying that, Sharla. Sa: And next time, whoever you go for, they'll be putty in your hands! Me: I, er, certainly hope so. Thank you, Sharla. (b2) ++++ Sa: You have to move on or you'll just feel even worse. Me: Indeed. I will not pine over him. There are other fish in the sea. Sa: Now you're talking, Melia. Sa: But I wish I found it so easy to put the past behind me... Me: What do you mean, Sharla? Sa: Oh, nothing. It's silly really. Sa: I'm just finding it hard to forget about...him. Me: Gadolt, you mean... Sa: His last words to me were 'I've fulfilled my promise'... Sa: But why did that mean he had to go and die on me? Me: Mourning is a part of acceptance. Me: Try to turn that sadness into a celebration of his life. Me: (And I do hope you get together with Reyn. He'll make you happy...) Sa: You're right, Melia, although it's easier said than done. Thank you. ============================================================================= Journey's End Rn: Hey, Riki. I've gotta confess something to you. Ri: Reyn obsess with Riki? Rn: Not 'obsess', 'confess'! It's just I...didn't think you'd get this far. Ri: What Reyn mean? Rn: I just figured you'd give up and head back to the village. Ri: Reyn mean Hom Hom! (a) Riki do want to go home. (b) (a) ---- Ri: If Riki go home now, village friends cook Riki on grill!* Rn: Wow. You serious? Ri: Riki never serious! Haha. Ri: But Riki do sometimes want go back to family in village. Rn: Yeah, I miss home too. And your little ones probably miss you a lot. Ri: Riki not leave friends though! Rn: Why not? (a1) 'Because Riki is Heropon'? (a2) (a1) ---- Rn: You just being too stubborn to admit defeat? Ri: Riki not stubborn! Reyn nasty Hom Hom! * Rn: Oi, calm down, Riki. I'm sorry. Rn: We've been dragging you around getting in all sorts of trouble. Rn: I kinda feel a little guilty. That's all. Ri: Reyn worried for Riki? Ri: Riki love to travel with friends! No regrets! Ri: Riki not like every day, but tomorrow always different! Rn: You know who's next though? Dickson. Rn: He's not going down easily. Things might get messy, Riki. Rn: You ready for that? 'Cos if not, get running, fuzzball! Ri: Riki ready like Reyn ready. Dickson fall like leaf from tree! Rn: That's not what I meant. Rn: Think about your family, Riki. What happens if you get hurt? Rn: Your family will have no dad. Ri: Reyn talk funny to Riki. Reyn sound different than before... Ri: Riki think that sky will fall on friends' heads next! Rn: What's got into you? I talk like this all the time. Rn: I know about this stuff. I lost my mum and dad ages ago. Rn: I was young like your kids. So I know how they'd feel. Rn: Make sure you survive, Riki. Ri: Yes, yes, Reyn. Riki understand Reyn's words. Ri: Heropon Riki will not fail! Because... Rn: 'Riki is Heropon!' Heard it all before man. Ri: Reyn right! Good memory, Reyn! (a2) ++++ Ri: Reyn right! Good memory, Reyn! Rn: Your catchphrases are stuck in my head! I can't help it. Rn: They usually have 'Heropon' in 'em so they're easy to remember. Ri: Meh-meh-meh-meh! Reyn shut big fat Hom Hom hole! * Ri: Reyn say silly sayings all the time! * Rn: All right, little fella. Let's agree to disagree, eh? Rn: It's hard to admit, but it's been kinda fun having you around. Rn: Though I never would have thought you'd make it as far as this. Ri: Reyn sound different. Sound like he use his brain! Ri: Is sky going to fall on Riki's head? Rn: Oi, where'd that come from?! I say clever things all the time! Rn: Anyway, I'm just telling it like it is. Rn: I figured some silly 'Heropon' was never gonna cut the mustard. Ri: Riki never really think he leave and go home. Ri: Riki think like this: Ri: When Riki ride Pterix, never jump off before Pterix land! Rn: What the heck is Pterix? You say the weirdest things... Rn: Well, anywho, I have to say thank you. Rn: After we mop up the bad guys, you and the missus can visit me. Ri: Riki look forward to it! Ri: Riki want to go fishing at Reyn's favourite spot at colony! (b) ++++ Ri: Riki want to see Oka and all littlepon in village. Ri: Riki want pollen cakes and Riki want them now! * Rn: Sounds like you'd rather eat cake than see your family, Riki. Ri: No! Riki think family most important! Ri: But Riki is Heropon so fight till battle ends! Rn: Haha. That's right? Rn: You've got a pretty big family... I'm almost jealous of ya, Riki. Ri: Why Reyn jealous? Rn: I ain't got any family left. Rn: When I go home, no one's there waiting. Rn: You must be the happiest bloke on Bionis, Riki. Ri: Reyn really think so? (b1) Cheer up, Reyn! (b2) (b1) ---- Ri: Riki so used to family that he forget Reyn not have one. Rn: Sounds like a typical Riki reply. Ri: Riki not forget feeling at home. Riki feel good going home. Ri: That what Reyn mean? Rn: Yeah, that's what I want. Rn: I used to take it for granted, spending time with mum and dad. Rn: It wasn't till after they were gone I finally realised what I had. Ri: So Reyn want to start family too? Rn: Yeah, I guess you could say that. Not right now though. Rn: I've learnt a lot from this trip, but I still have loads to learn. Rn: I've gotta get stronger in more ways than one. Ri: Reyn sound different. Sound like he use his brain! Ri: Is sky going to fall on Riki's head? Rn: Listen you! I come up with loads of good ideas! Rn: But anyway, enough arguing. Rn: I'm glad we got to chat. I almost enjoyed myself. Haha! Rn: Cheers, Riki. (b2) ++++ Ri: Riki want Reyn to start own happy family! Rn: Easier said than done, man! Ri: Riki think it easy! Get married! Start family! Ri: Reyn think too hard sometimes! Rn: So you reckon I should stop thinking about it so much? Ri: Riki want to marry Oka so Riki tell her, 'Marry Riki!' Ri: Oka was so angry she slap Riki. Ri: But then she agree and Riki and Oka have family. Rn: So you think if I get a girl to marry me I'm all set? Rn: I hate to agree with you, but that sounds like a good idea. Ri: Reyn agree with Riki?! Ri: Riki help Reyn get married to other Hom Hom! Rn: Cheers, man. Rn: Gonna have to find me a nice girl first though. Ri: But Reyn already have nice girl... Rn: Wait... You don't mean... Rn: Well, maybe, but this ain't the time or the place. Rn: When we're all home free, I hope she doesn't turn me down... ============================================================================= Date: October 2012 Typed by: Mirinee Email: mirinee [at] gmail [dot] com Thank you for reading! All characters and trademarks contained in this document are owned by their respective trademark and copyright holders. =============================================================================