Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn
(aka Fire Emblem 10: Akatsuki no Megami)
Game Script FAQ - Version 0.95 (c) DarkenedSakura

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|Table of Contents                                                            |
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|1. Version History
|2. Introduction
|3. Animations and Base Conversations
|4. Contact Info
|
|Part I: Silver-Haired Maiden..............................................[*1]
|Prologue 1-0: Under Gray Skies.........................................[*1.00]
|Chapter 1-1: Maiden of Miracles........................................[*1.01]
|Chapter 1-2: The Dispossessed..........................................[*1.02]
|Chapter 1-3: A Faint Light.............................................[*1.03]
|Chapter 1-4: A Distant Voice...........................................[*1.04]
|Chapter 1-5: The Lost Heir.............................................[*1.05]
|Chapter 1-6: Raise the Standard........................................[*1.06]
|Chapter 1-7: A Gathering Hope..........................................[*1.07]
|Chapter 1-8: Glory Unwanted............................................[*1.08]
|Chapter 1-9: One Survives..............................................[*1.09]
|Part I Endgame: Daein, Arise!..........................................[*1.10]
|
|Part II: Of Countries and Kings...........................................[*2]
|Prologue 2-0: On Drifting Clouds.......................................[*2.00]
|Chapter 2-1: Winds of Rebellion........................................[*2.01]
|Chapter 2-2: Tides of Intrigue.........................................[*2.02]
|Chapter 2-3: Geoffrey's Charge.........................................[*2.03]
|Part II Endgame: Elincia's Gambit......................................[*2.04]
|
|Part III: Intersecting Vows...............................................[*3]
|Prologue 3-0: The Great Advance........................................[*3.00]
|Chapter 3-1: Laguz and Beorc...........................................[*3.01]
|Chapter 3-2: Stormclouds...............................................[*3.02]
|Chapter 3-3: River Crossing............................................[*3.03]
|Chapter 3-4: The General's Hand........................................[*3.04]
|Chapter 3-5: Retreat!..................................................[*3.05]
|Chapter 3-6: A Reason to Fight.........................................[*3.06]
|Chapter 3-7: Rivals Collide............................................[*3.07]
|Chapter 3-8: Incandescent Glow.........................................[*3.08]
|Chapter 3-9: Marauders.................................................[*3.09]
|Chapter 3-10: The Heart of Crimea......................................[*3.10]
|Chapter 3-11: Just Cause...............................................[*3.11]
|Chapter 3-12: The Price................................................[*3.12]
|Chapter 3-13: Blood Contract...........................................[*3.13]
|              (A.1).................................................[*3.13-A1]
|              (A.2).................................................[*3.13-A2]
|              (B)....................................................[*3.13-B]
|Part III Endgame: From Pain, Awakening.................................[*3.14]
|              (A)....................................................[*3.14-A]
|              (B)....................................................[*3.14-B]
|
|Part IV: Gods and Men.....................................................[*4]
|Prologue 4-0: Chaos Named..............................................[*4.00]
|Chapter 4-1: Road to the Empire........................................[*4.01]
|Chapter 4-2: Silent World..............................................[*4.02]
|              (A)....................................................[*4.02-A]
|              (B)....................................................[*4.02-B]
|Chapter 4-3: Distortions...............................................[*4.03]
|Chapter 4-4: Revelations...............................................[*4.04]
|Chapter 4-5: Unforgivable Sin..........................................[*4.05]
|              (A)....................................................[*4.05-A]
|              (B)....................................................[*4.05-B]
|Part IV Endgame: Rebirth (1)...........................................[*4.11]
|              (A)....................................................[*4.11-A]
|              (B)....................................................[*4.11-B]
|Part IV Endgame: Rebirth (2)...........................................[*4.12]
|              (C)....................................................[*4.12-C]
|Part IV Endgame: Rebirth (3)...........................................[*4.13]
|Part IV Endgame: Rebirth (4)...........................................[*4.14]
|              (C)....................................................[*4.14-C]
|Part IV Endgame: Rebirth (5)...........................................[*4.15]
|              (C)....................................................[*4.15-C]
|
|Epilogue..................................................................[*5]
|Staff Credits.............................................................[*6]
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|1. Version History                                                           |
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0.10 - July 21, 2008
  - Transcribed and formatted up to Chapter 1-3. Hacked out the introduction/
    contents/necessary and perfunctory blah blah blah bits.
0.62 - July 26, 2008
  - Transcribed and formatted up to halfway through Chapter 3-4, along with the
    first animation sequence and several base conversations.
0.70 - August 2, 2008
  - Transcribed and formatted up to Chapter 3-12, as well as two more animation
    sequences and a couple of base conversations. Corrected several typos,
    double-spaced everything to make it easier on the eyes, and added some
    things I missed the first time around as I had to start over due to
    a...mishap, sob, etc. The next update will thus take more time than I'd
    previously anticipated, sorry.
0.85 - August 13, 2008
  - Transcribed and formatted up to halfway through Chapter 4-3 as well as a
    couple of base conversations, and added snippets I missed in previous
    chapters.
0.95 - August 27, 2008
  - Transcribed and formatted up to the epilogue, along with several base
    conversations. The rest of the animations, base conversations, and
    storyline from the (A) and non-(C) path will hopefully finish this up
    one of these days.


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|2. Introduction                                                              |
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Hello, and thanks for reading this guide! I'm DS, or DarkenedSakura, and a huge
lurker at gamefaqs whom you probably have never seen before. While I'm usually
the one who uses the guide rather than the one who writes it - this is my first
FAQ, actually - I'd noticed that after all this time, there still wasn't a game
script for FE10 out. So, I felt like filling in that hole, especially since I
love FE9-10 to pieces.

- This script was taken from the normal difficulty level playthrough of the
  American release, and from a second playthrough file. In other words, there
  may be spoilers here even for people who have only played through the game
  once, though I'll try to indicate where the script changes and alternates. 
- Bits of in-battle dialogue may be missing, as I might not have fulfilled the
  requirements for certain text, etc - sorry in advance.
- Actually, in all likelihood, I will not have every possible boss conversation
  or character ending up here. If you want more complete versions of those, a
  good place to check is serenesforest.net.
- Info conversations, at least the ones that complement the main plot well,
  will be included.
- And just in case you missed it, SPOILERS will obviously be in every corner.


- One final note. The second playthrough gives an option not to kill a certain
  character, which does change the storyline and dialogue somewhat. Since I'm
  going on that path and this happens at the end of Part III, I won't have the
  alternate script for Part IV for a while. In addition, there's a second
  recruitable character as well, though this only occurs in the final
  Endgame.
  But hey, the second playthrough supplementary story stuff is great, so.

(A) indicates the path where you choose to kill the character in Chapter 3-13.
  - (A.1) indicates doing so via the first option, the character's request.
  - (A.2) indicates doing so via choosing someone else.
(B) indicates the path where you choose not to kill the character.
(C) indicates alternate storyline from recruiting one extra character during
    Endgame-4, which includes Ike's memory sequence.


Brackets [] indicate actions or non-given headers.
Parentheses () indicate headers, usually for locations, or use of the old
    tongue.
Asterisks (*) indicate the number of stars a base conversation has; (*)
    supplements the storyline, (**) is info that can help in the next battle,
    and (***) gets you an item, gold, or a new character.
If you're looking for a certain part, ctrl+f the search tags listed for each
    specific section.


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|3. Animations and Base Conversations                                         |
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

I'll be including as many of these as possible, but the game script is first
priority. Animations and base conversations, especially those that supplement
the plot more, are second, and get sporadically added. Therefore, here's a list
of what's actually up right now.

Animations:
- The Escape
- Execution
- The Crossing
- all memory sequences, including Ike's memory sequence and any extra second
  playthrough Endgame: Rebirth sequences

Base Conversations:
- Chapter 1-6; Outside the Village
- Chapter 1-6; Kurth
- Chapter 1-7; Pelleas
- Chapter 1-8; Sothe
- Chapter 3-2; The Three Brothers
- Chapter 3-9; Villagers
- Prologue 4-0; Rulers
- Chapter 4-3; Naesala
- Chapter 4-5; Pelleas
- Part IV Endgame (1); Stefan
- Part IV Endgame (1); Dragons
- Part IV Endgame (4); Ancient History
- Part IV Endgame (5); Soren


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|4. Contact info                                                              |
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

Feel free to contact me at sakuramaster @ hotmail.com with a relevant subject
line if you have any questions (not accepting alternate scripts at this time,
however), etc. Any other inquiries such as gameplay questions, character
recommendations, etc, I will probably point you to the other guides available
in response.

So far, only gamefaqs.com has the right to use this walkthrough. If you'd like
to host or use this guide, feel free to email me.
[Note: I've decided to get back to such requests once version 1.0 is up. You
can still ask, but my response will simply be delayed. Sorry for the trouble.]

And just to be safe: all trademarks and copyrights contained in this document
are owned by their respective trademark and copyright holders.


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|Part I: Silver-Haired Maiden                                             [*1]|
+---+---------------------------------------------------------------------+---+

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Prologue 1-0: Under Gray Skies                                          [*1.00]
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[animation – The Escape]


[Nighttime; a full moon. Soldiers carrying torches run back and forth along
    old, damaged buildings.]

Begnion Soldier: Find anything?

Begnion Soldier: Not yet, sir, no.

Begnion Soldier: Someone's gotta be here. Keep looking.

Begnion Soldier: Sir!

[He walks away. A young girl, Micaiah, hides behind one of the walls next to a
    large gap in the brick, clutching her hand to her chest and trying not to
    make a sound. She gives a small gasp, attracting the attention of several
    soldiers who walk towards her.]

Begnion Soldier: We're wasting our time. There's no one here.

Begnion Soldier: I know I heard something...

Micaiah: [talks to Yune, who she is grasping in her hand] Hush, Yune! Please,
    don't cry. If they hear you, you'll give us away.

[Yune tweets; Micaiah gasps]

Begnion Soldier: Who's there?

[Yune flies out. The soldiers look into the crack.]

Begnion Soldier: Is it the Dawn Brigade?

Begnion Soldier: No. It was just a bird.

[Micaiah gives an inaudible sigh of relief. The two soldiers standing on either
    side of the cracked wall she's hiding behind look at each other with small
    nods and walk away in opposite directions away from the crack. However,
    after a moment, a soldier grabs her arm. She cries out in surprise and
    drops her light tome; the soldier twists her arms behind her back]

Begnion Soldier: Ha ha ha! Thought we didn't see you?

[More soldiers enter. They hold torches up to her in order to see her better in
    the light. One grabs her chin; she winces and faintly struggles.]

Begnion Soldier: Look... Silver hair...

Begnion Soldier: If it's the fortune-teller, we'll be heroes! Without her, the
    Dawn Brigade is nothing.

[he pushes her head aside; she still struggles]

Begnion Soldier: Oh, the general's going to love this. Bind her.

Begnion Soldier: Sir.

[they start to tie her wrists]

Begnion Soldier: Listen up, lass. If you don't want to get hurt, don't
    struggle.

[Micaiah looks up as Yune chirps and flies high up in the sky; a sound of metal
    weaponry as a soldier collapses. Micaiah picks up her light tome amidst the
    confusion.]

Begnion Soldier: She's not alone!

[Sothe appears, who quickly kicks down and knocks out several soldiers, dodging
    and back flipping to avoid their blows. Sothe and Micaiah stand back to
    back. A soldier blows on a horn; more soldiers flood in.]

Sothe: Micaiah.

Micaiah: Sothe...

Begnion Soldier: Got you now!

[Micaiah opens the light tome and starts to chant, raising her hand]

Micaiah: Ekarif Magae Teiodasto Ieraka!

[A strong light emanates from her hand, blinding the soldiers]

Begnion Soldier: My eyes!

Sothe: Good job, Micaiah. Let's go.

Micaiah: Right. Yune!

[Yune chirps and flies after them; Sothe and Micaiah run off into the night.]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Nevassa, the Daein Capital - A few days later...)

Edward: Something must have happened to him.

Micaiah: Don't worry. He'll be here.

Edward: Hey, I have an idea... Micaiah, why don't you use your farsight to see 
    when Leonardo will arrive?

Micaiah: Edward, you know that's not how it works. I foresee some things, but I
    don't get to choose what I see.

Edward: I was just teasing! Still, Leonardo's never late. Something must have—-

???: H-help! Someone, please help us!

Lady: Bandits! Bandits are attacking the town! Run away! Who knows what the 
    brutes will do if they catch you!

Micaiah: Where is the Imperial Occupation Army this time? How can they keep the
    peace when they're nowhere to be found?

Lady: Who, the Begnion soldiers?! Hah! They don't care a lick about us! We lost
    the war, and they won. We're nothing to them.

Lady: They're only interested in chasing down the Dawn Brigade. They let the 
    real scoundrels run wild and brutalize us.

Micaiah: They're worse than useless! We'll be glad to help you. Just find 
    someplace to hide, and leave those bandits to us.

Edward: And don't worry about us. We happen to be members of that same Dawn 
    Brigade that the Begnion troops are so interested in!

Boy: What! Really?! You guys are in the Dawn Brigade?! Wow, my friends and I 
    talk about you all the time!

Lady: You? But you're just children! Oh, how Daein has fallen... Children, 
    forced to fight and steal for the good of the poor.

Lady: But we can't fight the rogues, so we'll take you up on your offer. Please
    be careful. They're slice clean through you if they can.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pugo: Listen up, you louts! This town is nothin' but idiot kids and drooling 
    graybeards. Steal everything you can!

[enemies scatter]

Micaiah: Yune, it's dangerous here. Go find someplace safe for now.

[Yune flies away]

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

Ruffian: Heh heh heh! A pretty little girl like you'll fetch a pretty penny for
    me! Now be a good girl and come to papa.

Micaiah: (old tongue)

Ruffian: What did you say? That better not have been an insult, you... Huh!?

[ruffian dies]

Micaiah: No matter the manner of man, the goddess judges with an even hand.

-----------------------------------------------------------{Leonardo appears}--

Leonardo: Micaiah!

Micaiah: Leonardo! How did you find us?

Leonardo: A little bird told me. Yours, in fact.

[Yune chirps]

Leonardo: What were you two thinking, taking on these bandits alone? That's 
    beyond reckless.

Micaiah: I'm sorry, Leonardo. We couldn't just leave the helpless villagers to
    these monsters. Please, help us fight them.

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

Pugo: Who do you brats think you are, the Dawn Brigade?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]

Pugo: You give proper thieves a bad name. Hah! You like charity? Come closer! 
    I'll show you some charity!

Micaiah: These people work hard to feed their families mere scraps. Then you 
    come along and steal what little they've earned.

Pugo: Shut up, kid! I work hard, too! You want honest? Once I've sold you, I'll
    have earned an honest penny!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pugo: Aghhh! What just happened?!

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Edward: Fantastic! We won! It's just like you said, Micaiah. They were no match
   for us!

Micaiah: Yune, come here.

[Yune flies over, chirps]

???: You did it!

[group turns towards townspeople]

Lady: Thank you so much! We owe you our lives.

???: You there! What are you doing? Stop immediately!

[three soldiers standing on a balcony look down]

Edward: Well, well, well. Look who decided to show up... Begnion soldiers. They
    certainly took their time, didn't they?

Leonardo: We mustn't be caught. Micaiah! Edward! Make a break for it. Run!

Micaiah: [turns] I'm sorry. We have to leave.

Lady: I know. Thank you again for all you've done. Now, go! Run!

Boy: Hey, lady! My name's Nico! When I grow up, I want to be just like you guys!
   Come back sometime!

[Micaiah's group runs away]

Begnion: Hold it! Stop right there!

???: Who are you bellowing at, soldier?

Begnion: General Jarod?! Wh-when did you arrive?

Jarod: Answer my question, maggot. I want to know who you were yelling at and
    why you did nothing but yell at them.

Begnion: S-sorry, sir. We suspect they were from the Dawn Brigade, a band of 
    thieves that targets goods levied from the town. People say they give what 
    they've stolen back to the villagers and strut around acting like heroes.

Begnion: They're said to have a witch among them, a girl called the Silver-
    Haired Maiden. They say she can heal wounds instantly by laying her hands 
    on any injury. Townspeople treat her like a savior.

Jarod: And? What have you been doing about this band of fools?

Begnion: Sir. A few days ago we stormed their hideout. We found a girl much 
    like the Silver-Haired Maiden... We ran the dogs from their den, but they 
    were cunning and cautious, and...we lost them.

Jarod: I see. I'm beginning to understand.

Begnion: How do you mean, sir?

Jarod: I'm beginning to understand exactly how incompetent you all are!

[he kills the soldier with his lance]

Begnion: Urk!

Jarod: Make the villagers talk. I want to know who these bandits are and where 
    they're hiding.

Begnion: Y-yes, sir! Understood, sir!

[two soldiers run away]

Alder: I don't care who they are. The more kick they have in them, the more 
    fun for us, don't you think, sir?

Jarod: Precisely. Overseeing this dusty old town is wearing thin. A little 
    fresh game is just what I need.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Tellius – The year 648 – Early summer)

The northeastern nation of Daein lost a bloody war with neighboring Crimea 
three years ago. Crimea, however, abdicated its right to rule Daein and 
passed sovereignty of its former enemy to the powerful Begnion Empire. 
Daein's future is now subject to the whims of the empire.

Begnion's occupations forces have gathered all of Daein's men of fighting age 
and put them to work in labor camps. Their work is brutal and void of purpose, 
designed to break both body and spirit. The remaining population faces poverty 
and starvation as the fields lie fallow. A band of young heroes has escaped the
Begnion army to form a group called the Dawn Brigade. Fighting for a free
Daein, they alone have stood against Begnion's forces. They alone have 
shouldered the hopes of their nation. 

Among the company is a young girl named Micaiah, who is said to possess 
mystical powers. The people of Daein have come to know her as the "Silver-
Haired Maiden." They have come to think of her as the savior for whom they had
been waiting.

Begnion's forces have tried time and time again to capture and silence the Dawn
Brigade. However, Micaiah's ability to sense impending danger has thus far 
allowed the Dawn Brigade to evade the empire's grasp.



=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=
Chapter 1-1: Maiden of Miracles                                         [*1.01]
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

(Dawn Brigade Camp)

Micaiah: How should we explain yesterday to Sothe and Nolan?

Leonardo: It's like you said. We didn't have a choice. We had to save Nico and 
    the townsfolk. But I admit, getting spotted by those Begnion soldiers was 
    unfortunate. Still, I'd do it all over again. The worst part is they know 
    we're near. They could find this hideout as easily as they found our last 
    one.

Edward: I just don't get it. This is our country... Why do we have to live in 
    hiding, like prisoners in our own land?

Leonardo: Come on, you know why. We lost the war...and Crimea won. It's not 
    "our" country anymore. End of story.

Edward: Except that Crimea walked away after winning, leaving those heartless 
    Begnion dogs to rule our country for the last three years! The occupying 
    soldiers march around like they own the place, doing whatever they want, 
    and no one dares to stop them!

???: To be fair, Crimea didn't have the resources to rule another country.

[Sothe and Nolan appear]

Micaiah: Sothe! And Nolan, too! Welcome back. I'm glad you made it in one 
    piece.

Leonardo: At last, the Dawn Brigade is all present. But you are unusually late.
   Were you delayed?

Sothe: I think our fame's catching up with us. Begnion patrols are everywhere.
   It took us a while to avoid them.

Nolan: I've never seen so much Begnion activity in this area before. Is
    there...something we should know?

[Micaiah leaves]

Leonardo: Um, well, actually, the truth is...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nolan: Ah, that's what did it. You had a run-in with bandits?

Micaiah: And Begnion soldiers spotted us as we made our escape. I'm sorry. We 
    only wanted to help. We were careless.

Sothe: We'll worry about that later. More importantly, Micaiah, were you seen 
    healing anyone with Sacrifice?

Micaiah: I'm afraid so.

Sothe: You can't allow anyone to know what you can do. Healing without any 
    tomes or staves is a rare gift—-almost unheard of. If anyone saw you
    doing it, you'd be given away immediately, and I don't know if I could
    keep you safe.

Micaiah: I know, Sothe.

Sothe: I know you know, but you keep doing it! This place isn't safe anymore. 
    We should leave at once.

Nolan: Correct. Ah, but it would have been nice to eat just one meal in 
    peace...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(An Alley in Nevassa)

[the group meets at an intersection]

Edward: This way's no good either. Begnion soldiers have every alleyway 
    blocked. A kitten couldn't sneak past them.

Nolan: It looks like this really is the least guarded path, then. Even so, it's
    swarming with soldiers.

Micaiah: There are more coming up behind us! We'll be trapped if we don't move
    quickly!

Nolan: We can't wait for Sothe.

Micaiah: The stairs by the church lead to the marketplace. We can break through
    there.

Nolan: I'll go first and secure the way. Micaiah and Leonardo, cover my back! 
    Remember to keep your distance from the enemy. Team up and bring them down
    one by one!

Micaiah: We'll be careful.

Leonardo: Leave it to us.

Nolan: Edward, you bring up the rear. Your skills have improved, but you're 
    still new to fighting. Don't rush the enemy. Just focus on surviving their 
    attacks. Got it?

Edward: Yeah, yeah, I got it.

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

Mercenary: Captain Isaiya! Just as you said. A group that appears to be the 
    Dawn Brigade is storming the alley!

Isaiya: How generous of them. I'll wipe them out and advertise my exploits to 
    our commanders back home.

-------------------------------------------------------------{visitng houses}--

Grandmother: You there! You must be... Ah, you needn't say a word. I see the
    goodwill in your eyes. Take this and go, quickly. You've done so much for
    Daein's poor. It's time we did something in return.

[You got a Vulnerary]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Man: Those beasts! They do whatever they want in our country. They're even
    sending our clergy to their awful camps! But I'm helpless. I don't have
    your strength or courage. This axe... You should have it.

[You got a Hand Axe]

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

Isaiya: What fast little mice you are! How long do you plan on scurrying around
    in back alleys?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]

Micaiah: Step aside!

Isaiya: The girl we've been looking for! The lucky little escapee. Too bad for 
    you, sweetie. Your luck ends today!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Isaiya: What?! This can't be! I'm in my prime... Not...so easily...

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Sothe: Everybody...this way!

[Micaiah's group flees]

Begnion: They're running to the center of town! After them!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[the group arrives at a town square]

Nolan: Good work! I see the market. If we can blend into the crowd, they'll 
    lose us, and we'll be free and clear.

[Micaiah's group heads into the market]

Nico: Hey, lady!

Micaiah: Nico!

Lady: They're after you again, aren't they?

Nico: Are you and your friends all right?

Begnion: Moldy onions! Where'd they go?! [soldiers enter the market]

Grandfather: Leave the soldiers to us. Go on, now. Get yourselves to safety.

Lady: Quickly—-don't dawdle. You must escape. You're our only hope.

Micaiah: Thank you so much! [her group flees]

Begnion: Wait! There they go! Catch them!

[the soldiers are met by the crowd]

Begnion: What are you stopping for?

Begnion: W-well, they...

Lady: You won't get past us! We stand by the Dawn Brigade.

Nico: That's right! Goddess protect the Dawn Brigade!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Sothe and Micaiah run down an alley, but Micaiah stops]

Micaiah: Wait! Something terrible is about to happen!

Sothe: What is it?

Micaiah: [closes her eyes] ...No! We have to go back. [turns around and runs
    back]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Begnion: What?! You're letting this rabble stop you? Ready your bows! Nobody 
    defies the will of Begnion.

[archers fire into the crowd, hit Nico]

Grandmother: No! How could you shoot a child? You vicious savages!

Lady: Someone! Someone, help him, quickly! Please...this child is dying!

Begnion: [walks up] Pay heed! This is what happens when you meddle in Begnion 
    affairs of state. Remember it well!

Man: I didn't realize that the Begnion Empire's affairs of state included 
    murdering children in the street!

Begnion: Don't point your fingers at us. We're just doing our job. If you're 
    upset, blame the Dawn Brigade! They made this happen!

[Micaiah runs up]

Begnion: It's the girl we're looking for! Call for reinforcements! Surround and
    arrest every last one of them...

Micaiah: [drops to her knees]

Begnion: What's happening?! What does she think she's doing?! Hey, you, step 
    away from that child!

[a blue glow emanates from her]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[cutscene - Micaiah healing Nico with a blue glow from her hands]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Grandfather: It...it's a miracle. We've seen a miracle today!

Man: That was Sacrifice...

Lady: That girl! She must be the Silver-Haired Maiden. Only she possesses 
    Sacrifice!

Sothe: [runs up, carries Micaiah out]

Begnion: Stop right there! After them! We can't let them get away!

[the townspeople mill in front of the soldiers]

Man: We still stand by the Dawn Brigade.

Begnion: What is wrong with you people?! Did you hear me?! Clear a path, or 
    you'll end up like that kid!

Jarod: [runs up] You sniveling idiots! Why are you just standing there?! Give 
    chase. Now!

[the soldiers clear a path]

Begnion: Yes, sir! We would like to, sir, but...the townspeople are blocking 
   our way.

Jarod: Oh...I see. The townspeople are blocking your way. You dullards! 

[he stabs and kills all of the townsmen with one blow]

Jarod: Clean out those dirty ears and listen to me! You are soldiers, and I am
    your commander! You will follow my orders promptly and without hesitation.
    Understand, you useless vermin? Now, move!

[the soldiers leave]

Jarod: Unbelievable! If it's not one thing, it's another. Why am I always stuck
    leading the buffoons?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Micaiah: ...Mmm...

Sothe: Are you awake now? Thank goodness. Do you see? This is why I told you 
    not to use Sacrifice...

Edward: We sure showed them in Nevassa, huh? I guess we can't go back there...
    not for a while anyway.

Micaiah: I'm so fond of Nevassa. It's where we all met. It feels like my only 
    real home. We will return...someday.

Sothe: We will, Micaiah. I know you, and you have a way of getting what you 
    want.

Micaiah: Because you're always there to help me get it, Sothe.



=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=
Chapter 1-2: The Dispossessed                                           [*1.02]
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

(Old Road)

Nolan: Just a quick half-mark, and we'll be in Kisca. I'd like to stock up 
    there, but...

Sothe: Begnion will be on the lookout for us. Let's steer clear of towns for 
    now, unless we want more trouble.

Edward: Don't tell me... This means another night sleeping on the cold ground 
    with nothing but bugs to keep us warm!

Micaiah: Oh, Edward, it's not that bad!  The forest is so beautiful and serene.
    I'd almost rather be out here. Right, Yune?

???: [a girl runs up to them] Um...excuse me. Are you people heading to town by
    any chance? Our abbot is ill. He needs medicine, but Begnion soldiers are 
    hoarding our provisions in the manor house.

Micaiah: The Dawn Brigade, at your service! I'm sure we can help you and your
     abbot.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Lord Kisea's Manor)

Micaiah: Sothe, do you know the layout of the manor?

Sothe: I was here years ago. As I remember, there's a large armory tucked deep
    inside the building. And if I understand correctly, Begnion soldiers guard
    valuables they've stolen-—from rare objects to necessary supplies—-in that 
    armory.

Micaiah: Then the medicine will be there, too.

Laura: Are you sure you don't mind?

Micaiah: Of course not! Danger is part of our work. Leave everything to us!

Sothe: Your abbot will have his medicine.

Laura: Oh, thank you so much! Good luck!

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

Zaitan: Intruders, you say?! What with a full battalion stationed here? The 
    gall! And the intrigue! Now, listen up, my men, catch 'em midstream and 
    filet 'em like fish!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sothe: [unlocks back door] That takes care of the locks. Now, I just have to 
    figure out how to get everybody safely up here. [disappears from where he 
    came]

--------------------------------------------------------------{Sothe appears}--

Begnion: Hey, you! How did you get in here?!

Sothe: We are the Dawn Brigade. We go where we please. We're here to reclaim 
    what you've stolen from the people of Daein.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Begnion: Sir! There are burglars on the loose! Several young men and women have
    broken into the manor house!

Jarod: Did you say women? What... What color is their hair?

Begnion: There are two girls. One has bizarre silver-colored hair, and the
    other—-

Jarod: The Silver-Haired Maiden! Hm, very well. I want all soldiers on hand. 
    Capture the girl...alive. Do what you will with the others, but bring me 
    that girl! Understand!?

Begnion: Sir, yes sir!

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

Zaitan: Don't move a finger, thief, or I'll skewer you with my lance and serve
    you for lunch!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]

Zaitan: The Silver-Haired Maiden! I've got you! Lucky for you, Jarod wants you
    alive—-but there's no escaping now!

Micaiah: I'm afraid I have to disappoint you.

Zaitan: Oh, how pompous! Try to "disappoint" me, and I'll break both your arms!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Zaitan: With this many, we...can't...hold them back...
    Call...for...rein...force...ments...

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Laura: At last... Glory be! The abbot will have his medicine. Wait for me here.
    I'll return soon.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sothe: Well done, everybody! Are we all present and accounted for?

Micaiah: Wait! Laura's missing! She was just with me.

Sothe: Let's split up and search for her. Micaiah, you come with me.

Micaiah: ...Hm, the forest is huge. We can cover more ground if we search 
    individually.

Sothe: But...

Micaiah: Let's rendezvous at Kunu Swamp in three marks' time.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Micaiah runs alone]

Micaiah: Somebody's near by...

???: You sensed me, did you?

[Jarod appears]

Micaiah: Where is Laura?

Jarod: And you saw through my ruse. You're as clever as they say, my dear. You
    even came alone. How brave of you. Was that to give your friends a chance
    to escape? What a thoughtful little thing you are.

Laura: Mi-Micaiah! Don't come any closer!

Micaiah: Laura! Let her go! She isn't one of us...

Jarod: Now, you know I can't do that. She's a valuable hostage, just like you!

Micaiah: No! Yune, fly away!

Jarod: Argh, dratted bird! Yes, get that mangy flying bag of bones out of here
    before I squash it like a fly! Tch. How annoying. Enough of this! Back to
    the castle. As long as we have these two, the others don't matter.

Alder: Sir. All hands, withdraw!

Micaiah: I've got a bad feeling about this...



=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=
Chapter 1-3: A Faint Light                                              [*1.03]
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

(Glaive Prison)

Micaiah: I hope the others escaped...

Laura: I'm sure they are safe and secure, just as I'm sure the abbot got his
    medicine. I believe in them.

Aimee: Pardon... Excuse me. Not to pry, but did you know you're bleeding?
    You've got some blood on your sleeve there.

Micaiah: Hm? Oh, you're right! I've been so distracted, I didn't even notice...

Aimee: Unfortunately, there are no vulneraries to heal you in this rat hole...
    Here, try wrapping this cloth around your wound.

Micaiah: Thank you very much. I don't believe we've met. I'm Micaiah.

Aimee: I'm Aimee. I've been a lucky guest in this dungeon for quite some time.
    On behalf of myself and my snoozing friend over there, Ilyana, it's very 
    nice to meet you, Micaiah.

Ilyana: ...Mm...

Micaiah: Why are you two in here?

Aimee: I wish I knew! I belong to a merchant caravan that was passing through 
    en route to the next market day. When we arrived here, we were brought to
    this charming prison against our will. Now, we await "the general's
    pleasure."

Laura: I see. Well, that doesn't sound good. How unfortunate.

???: Um...

Aimee: So you can talk. You've been so quiet over there, I assumed you didn't
    speak our language.

???: ...if you wish, you may use this salve on your wound. It's an infusion 
   of olivi grass.

Aimee: Olivi grass? Hm, I've never heard of it. Are you sure it's safe?

???: It's unquestionably safe...and effective.

Micaiah: Thank you most kindly. I'll try it.

Aimee: Well, aren't you the trusting one? Are you honestly comfortable applying
    a strange medicine to your wound?

Micaiah: I am. I know it will work. Thank you for sharing your medicine.

???: You're welcome!

Micaiah: I hear something!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Sothe lands in front of the door]

Sothe: Here you are.

Micaiah: Sothe!

[chirping noise]

Micaiah: Yune! I'm so glad you're both all right!

Sothe: Sorry it took so long to get here. Hello.

Aimee: Well, hello! I remember you. You've certainly grown up to be easy on the
    eyes! I believe I'm a little smitten.

Micaiah: You two know each other?

Sothe: Somewhat. We crossed paths during the war. Let's get out of here before
    the guards come. I'll open the door, then we'll find a way out.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

???: I would like to get out of here, too. Like Aimee, I have no idea why I've
    been imprisoned. May I join you?

Micaiah: By all means!

???: I thank you much. My name is Kurth.

Micaiah: Well then, Kurth, after you.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[the door opens; Sothe first emerges and the rest of Micaiah's group appears]

Nolan: Sothe, this way!

Micaiah: Nolan! Edward! Leonardo! It's so good to see you all.

Sothe: How did you manage to sneak in this far without my help?

Nolan: Oddly, one of the soldiers let us in the back way.

Micaiah: A Begnion soldier?

Edward: Yes, he said, "If you're here to save Laura, follow me."

Laura: How strange. Why would a Begnion soldier mention me?

Mercenary: The prisoners are escaping!

Micaiah: Surprise, surprise! They found us!

Sothe: Micaiah, this is for you.

Micaiah: My tome! How did you get it?

Sothe: I didn't know if it was yours, but I figured you could use it. So at the
    armory, I "borrowed" it too.

Micaiah: Well done, Sothe. Now I can pull my weight and fight.

Sothe: And a staff for you, Sister.

Leonardo: Thank you very much.

Ilyana: Um... I... I can fight too. Could you...lend me that tome?

Sothe: What, you mean this one? Ilyana, I didn't know you used light magic,
    too.

Micaiah: Sothe, that's a tome of lightning magic.

Sothe: It is?

Micaiah: I give up. You just grabbed at random, didn't you?

Sothe: You know I can't read the old language. The letters all look the same to
    me! Here. If this one will work, take it. Just like old times, right,
    Ilyana?

Ilyana: Thank you... And yes, Sothe... I don't want to fight...but I'm glad
    I'll get to fight alongside you again...

Micaiah: Ilyana? If you're not up to it, don't feel pressured to fight. We can
    handle the soldiers. You look a little woozy. Are you sure you're going to
    be all right?

Aimee: She's fine, Micaiah. She's always like that.

Micaiah: But...

Ilyana: I can fight... I'm...very angry... The food here... It was terrible, 
    and...they gave us hardly any... I...will have vengeance.

Micaiah: This girl takes her food pretty seriously. Interesting.

Sothe: I see Ilyana is as hungry as ever.

Aimee: Don't worry about us. We'll carefully tiptoe around you all. The boy and
    I can't fight, so we'll stay out of harm's way. Good luck, everyone!

Kurth: I am sorry to impose upon you. Please be careful.

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

----------------------------------------------------------{talk; Aran, Laura}--

Laura: Aran? I can't believe it! It IS you!

Aran: Laura!

Laura: I knew it! But, Aran, why? Why would any true Daein join sides with
    Begnion?

Aran: A true Daein? I'm not sure I still am one... Not since a family of
    merchants from Begnion took me in... But I could never do anything to hurt
    you. You've always been like a little sister to me. Get out of here, Laura
    ...while you still have a chance! I'll turn a blind eye.

Laura: But what about Micaiah and Sothe? They've risked their lives fighting
    for the abbot--and for me. I couldn't possibly abandon them now, not even
    if it meant saving myself.

Aran: Oh, bother...

Laura: What's wrong?

Aran: I can't keep lying to myself any longer. I know what Begnion is doing in
    Daein is despicable, and I can't support it.

Laura: Then...

Aran: Then...from now on, I'm fighting for what's right...just like the abbot
    taught us. Come on. Let's get you--and everyone else--out of here!

Laura: Wonderful! Thank you, Aran. I knew it. You haven't changed a bit. You're
    as considerate as ever. Your family would have been so proud!

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

Burton: Ehhhh! You won't get away! I'll slice through you like a hot knife
    through cold butter!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]

Burton: You! Crawl quietly back to your cell, and I'll spare you. More than
    that, however, I cannot promise.

Micaiah: Don't be so sure. This isn't our first fight, and it won't be our
    last.

Burton: A brave, yet foolish, sentiment. Before the might of the empire, you
    lowlifes are just cracked dirt beneath my boots!!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Burton: Even if you run... There is no place...for you scum...to go...

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Aimee: Thank you so much...all of you! Because of your bravery, I can finally
    rejoin my merchant caravan. Still, coming back to Nevassa, I'm stunned at
    the terrible state of things. Who would have thought that Begnion would
    rule with such an iron fist? They run your nation with boundless cruelty,
    looting the towns and sending your able-bodied men to camps. It breaks my
    heart.

Jorge: They make me miss Ashnard, Daein's late "Mad King." And I never thought
    I'd say that! At least he never tried to destroy Crimea as a country!

Micaiah: What do you mean by that?

Daniel: People make a country. One person--even a noble king--does not a
    country make. And a strong country only exists when its people are strong.
    As Begnion crushes the citizenry, it slowly destroys Daein.

Jorge: The dastards are treating Daein like a nation of slaves! If this
    persists, Daein's strength will be sapped, and the nation itself will cease
    to be.

Micaiah: Then, what should we do? What can we do to save our country?

Jorge: There is a rumor. If it's true, there might be hope...

Muston: Look here, Jorge! Don't go spouting off rumors.

Micaiah: No, I want to know! If there is a shred of hope for us, tell me.

Jorge: Well, the rumor is that King Ashnard left an orphan behind.

Micaiah: Really? Is that true?!

Sothe: King Ashnard had a child? Why have I never heard of this?

Daniel: It's just a rumor--nothing more. But if it's true, it would be a strike
    of great fortune for Daein.

Jorge: In the last war, Crimea used a scion of the royal family to unify its
    people and rally a liberation army. So could Daein.

Aimee: And drive out the loathsome Begnion!

Micaiah: So where is this orphan?

Jorge: According to rumor, he's in the east, near the Desert of Death, trying
    to raise an army to lay claim to the throne. Shall we go there?

Sothe: Micaiah, what do you think?

Micaiah: ...In the desert...an important encounter awaits us. It shall be one
    that changes the shape of our future.

Sothe: Well, that's it then. We must go to the desert to meet our destiny.


=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=
Chapter 1-4: A Distant Voice                                            [*1.04]
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

[a view of ruins amidst the desert sands]

---------------------------------------------------------{base conversations}--

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sothe: What's going on, Micaiah?

Micaiah: I'm not sure. I sense...something. There's a presence here that calls
    out to me.

Sothe: All right, Micaiah, you and I should look into this. Everyone else,
    check the surroundings.

Nolan: Got it. Everybody, be on your guard.

Sothe: Amazing... I can't believe these ruins are still standing.

Micaiah: They do seem to be very old, indeed. I wonder who built them...

Sothe: Judging by the size, it must have been the laguz.

Micaiah: What makes you say that?

Sothe: What do you think it would be like, to change into a bird or a dragon,
    as the laguz can? Being part beast is one thing, but being able to
    transform into that beast, with more strength than we could ever imagine...
    I mean, they could build a place like this before breakfast.

Micaiah: I suppose that's true... But what surprises me most is not that these
    could be laguz ruins, but you, Sothe. You've changed, haven't you?

Sothe: Me? How so?

Micaiah: I remember a time when you used to refer to them laguz as
    "sub-humans." Such an ugly word. Now look at you.

Sothe: Well, come on. Beorc are called the "Children of Wisdom"--and the laguz
    the "Children of Strength"--for a reason. But I know now that just because
    our two races differ, that doesn't mean one is better than the other. The
    age-old beorc bias against laguz is based on sheer ignorance. When I met
    Ike during the war three years ago...and fought beneath him...he made me
    realize this.

Micaiah: Honestly. Here I thought you were saying something enlightened, and
    you're just talking about him again?

Sothe: What do you mean, "again"?

Micaiah: Sothe, sometimes, every other thing you say is like an ode to Ike. I
    know you fought beside him. I know you owe him your life. And I know you
    want to be just like him... But to the people of Daein, he's the man who
    crushed us three years ago. Some would even call him our archenemy. If we
    hadn't lost the war to that man, Daein wouldn't be in the mess it's in now.
    You know that.

Sothe: Pish! I know that. Everyone knows that.

[Yune chirps]

Micaiah: Yune? What is it? Where are you going?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[in a new room whose floor is covered in gold and treasures]

Micaiah: Incredible!

Sothe: [runs up to her] Mounds of treasure! Maybe it was the gold calling you,
    Micaiah?

???: Grrruah! What is this?! Looks like a tasty snack turned up while we were
    out!

[two tiger laguz appear]

Pain: Mwah-ha-ha! Our first prey in a long time. Leave them to me, my
    fang-brothers!

Sothe: Not good. Laguz bandits! Micaiah, give the signal.

Micaiah: Consider it done!

[a bright light shines; when it fades out, the rest of Micaiah's group appears
    in battle formation]

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

Pain: Mwah-ha-ha! Come here so I can taste you!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]

Pain: Mwah-ha-ha! Beorc are good eats!

Micaiah: Listen up! We did not intentionally intrude on your territory.

Pain: Mwah-ha-ha! I'll listen...while I'm gnawing on your bones!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pain: Mwah...ha...ha-- Gnk! How did this happen?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Agony: Grrruah! Puny little humans, come and fight!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]

Agony: Oooohhhh...a beorc mage. Shiny, sparkly magic makes me soooo scared.

Micaiah: We do not want your treasures, and we mean no ill will. Step back, and
    we will not harm you.

Agony: If the fire don't roar like a furnace, it don't scare me! Mwah-ha-ha!
    I'm gonna rip your throat out!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Agony: Grrrua...gack! What happened to me...

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Micaiah: Yune? Yune, where are you? You can come out now!

Sothe: You and that bird. It's...a little strange.

Micaiah: You're just jealous. Wait, I hear something.

Sothe: I can't hear anything.

Micaiah: Someone's singing. It's coming from over there.

Sothe: Micaiah, wait!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Sothe and Micaiah run down a corridor]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[cutscene - Rafiel and two wolf laguz sit together peacefully]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Micaiah: You! Hello! Who are you?

[the wolf laguz spring up and transform out of wolf-form]

Rafiel: I am Rafiel. A voice guided me here. Was it yours?

Micaiah: No. But I heard a voice that guided me here as well. Someone or
    something may want us both here.

Sothe: You're laguz, aren't you? One of the heron clan, and two of the beast
    tribe. Right?

Rafiel: That is correct, beorc youth.

Sothe: Your white wings reveal you're of the heron royal family. Are you
    related to Prince Reyson by any chance?

Rafiel: Reyson? My younger brother? You know of him?

Sothe: You could say that. We served in the same company for a while.

Rafiel: What? You are suggesting that my brother is still alive?

Sothe: Yes. He is still alive. And as far as I know, your father the king and
    the princess Leanne are as well. Unless something's happened, all three of
    them live in the royal palace of Gallia, country of the beast tribe.

Rafiel: Unbelievable! My father and sweet Leanne... They're still with me! Oh,
    goddess! I'm...not alone. Not anymore... ...Ah...

Nailah: Rafiel...

Volug: ...

Micaiah: Hello. And you are?

Nailah: I am Nailah, Queen of Hatari, and this is Volug, my loyal servant. Our
    kingdom lies far east of here.

Sothe: There's a country on the other side of the desert?

Nailah: As I said. We have just traveled from there. Until we met Rafiel, we
    didn't know there were countries on this side of the desert. After all, no
    one had ever crossed the Desert of Death and lived to tell of it. Without
    Rafiel's guidance, we would never have survived the crossing.

Rafiel: My people, the heron clan of Serenes, were blamed for the murder of
    Begnion's empress. Begnion mobs rose up in rage and massacred them. I had
    thought the whole of my clan, my entire race, had been wiped out. I
    wandered the desert in despair. If not for the queen, I would have died. In
    Hatari, I vowed to dedicate my life to her. And yet every night for these
    past three years, a voice has called out to me. Day by day, it has grown
    stronger... Until the voice led me to you all. Your news brings such joy!
    Father...Reyson...Leanne... My beloved family... My thanks to thee, O
    goddess... Ah...

Nailah: Rafiel... You talk too much. Control yourself. You, beorc... What's the
    best route to Gallia?

Sothe: For a group of laguz, traveling through the Daein countryside would be
    suicide. It will take you longer, but we could take you as far as Crimea.

Nailah: We would be grateful. By all means, let's travel together. But why go
    to Crimea? Why not travel directly to Gallia?

Sothe: Entering Gallia by yourselves would be nearly impossible. The man you
    need to get you into Gallia actually resides in Crimea. That man, Ike, is
    in contact with King Caineghis and his advisors. There's no doubt in my
    mind that he's the man you need.

Micaiah: Right. Lord Ike, "hero" of the Crimean Liberation, leader of the
    Greil Mercenaries, and father of Sothe's children...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The history of Tellius is a history of warfare, or so the troubadours sing. It
is a history of unending conflict between the beorc and the laguz, a history
penned in blood and scarred by mistrust. The beorc fight with the weapons of
man--the sword, the axe, the lance, and the magic arts, while the laguz, able
to transform into beast, bird, and dragon, are weapons unto themselves. Both
were created equally by the goddess, but neither race has ever accepted the
other.

The heron prince Rafiel, the wolf queen of Hatari, Nailah, and her vassal,
Volug. Is the Dawn Brigade's meeting with these three chance...or a sign of
things to come? Micaiah can only wonder.



=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=
Chapter 1-5: The Lost Heir                                              [*1.05]
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

(Desert of Death Outskirts - Obsolete Lodgings)

Micaiah: We have to go back to the desert. We still have something we need to
    do.

Sothe: It'd be great if it were to find Ashnard's son. I'm burning up out here.

Micaiah: I'm not sure what it is. I see a lot of images, stacked on top of each
    other. It's hard to see what they all are. There's danger, battles, and
    terrible sadness, but also...hope. Whatever our destiny is, I know we'll
    find it in the desert. Let's go.

Sothe: I understand, Micaiah. I'll tell everyone to make ready.

---------------------------------------------------------{base conversations}--

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Desert of Death)

Sothe: We've already been north, where we met Prince Rafiel and his party. That
    leaves east or south... Which way?

Micaiah: What is it, Volug? Is something wrong? Volug says he senses beorc to
    the south. A lot of beorc.

Sothe: That settles it then. We'll head south.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tauroneo: Hmph!

[he stabs and kills the soldier standing before him]

Zihark: Impressive as ever, General Tauroneo. However, we can't hold out
    forever. We are seriously outnumbered. It's time we put these vermin in
    their place. Are you ready, Jill?

Jill: Just give the word!

Zihark: All right then, let's get 'em!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sothe: Who could the Begnion soldiers be attacking out here in the middle of
    nowhere?

Micaiah: Whoever it is, we have to help them!

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

Sothe: wait a moment. Those people fighting the Begnion soldiers... It couldn't
    be... That white armor... Only certain generals were allowed to wear it. I
    may very well know that soldier.
Micaiah: Really? Well then, all the more reason to help them. Let's hurry!

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

Wystan: You're a tenacious bunch, I'll grant you. Daein isn't known for winning
    its wars... So why do you keep trying?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]

Wystan: Come to help the helpless? A dainty little flower like you is hardly
    worth the effort! Well, do your worst.

Micaiah: What is Begnion doing out here in the desert? Is there something or
    someone in these ruins that you're interested in?

Wystan: That's none of your business, little girl. We'll slash our way in no
    matter what anybody else wants!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wystan: Absurd... One must not...meet failure...against the tattered
    remnants...of a conquered...coun...try...

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Sothe: General Tauroneo! Zihark and Jill, too. I haven't seen you since the war
    ended three years ago. Who would've thought we'd meet again in such a
    desolate place?

Tauroneo: Sothe, you've grown. I hardly recognized you.

Sothe: We have a lot of catching up to do, but for now, I'll just make
    introductions. This is Micaiah...

[a man comes out of the desert ruins]

Izuka: And who have we here? Hmmm?

Sothe: Step back. Who are you?

Tauroneo: Lord Izuka, there's no need for concern. This young man is Sothe. We
    know him well. Sothe, may I introduce Lord Izuka. He is advisor and close
    confidant to Prince Pelleas, Ashnard's son.

Sothe: Micaiah! Did you hear that? The prince IS here. Still, I can't believe
    we ran into you three--of all people--guarding the prince. What a lucky
    coincidence. General Tauroneo, we came here because we heard the prince was
    gathering forces in the desert. We want to help you in your efforts. Will
    you let us join you?

Tauroneo: Certainly. Daein needs all the courage we can muster. Let us join
    forces.

Izuka: See here! What do you think you're doing?! You can't just ignore me and
    start making decisions! These people are suspicious, verrry suspicious.
    You're all Begnion spies, aren't you? Come now, tell the truth!

Sothe: We're the Dawn Brigade. We'd never work for those filthy curs!

Izuka: The Dawn Brigade! But how? Then, perhaps the girl... No! Could it be?
    Are you the Silver-Haired Maiden? Do you have the healing touch of
    Sacrifice? [moves up to Micaiah]

Micaiah: Excuse me!

Sothe: Take your hands off her! [steps between the two of them]

Izuka: What a coincidence! Or is it fate? Or maybe it's my unrivaled skill as a
    revolutionary organizer? With the Silver-Haired Maiden at our side, we'll
    surely win over the people of Daein! And then...yes! Incite scattered rebel
    movements, mm-hm, and then, further...the future of...change...

Sothe: Is he...touched in the head?

Izuka: Oh, my, but yes. I'll beckon to...no, demand that the vicious
    scalawags...surrender! Perfect! I am a genius! Come, come, my dear maiden!
    You must meet the prince! [heads back inside]

Tauroneo: Goddess help me, that man could try the patience of a stone.

Sothe: Hmmm...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Izuka: Look here! Before you stands the one and only, the grand Prince Pelleas,
    true-blooded son of the king of Daein. And here we have the consort and
    queen of our late King Ashnard, Lady Almedha. And look at you! You're
    standing? Did the desert dry out your brains? Kneel ye before these royal
    personages!

Pelleas: It's all right, Izuka. Please, don't stand on ceremony. I didn't know
    I was a prince until very recently. So, really, I'm not used to any of
    this.

Micaiah: What do you mean?

Pelleas: Until a half year ago--that is, until Izuka found me--I was raised as
    a normal commoner. To be frank, it still doesn't feel real to me. That
    I...I myself could be the son of King Ashnard. It's a little overwhelming.

Almedha: Don't talk nonsense, darling. You are my own sweet, sweet son, Prince
    Pelleas, yes... I'll never let you be parted from me, no, never ever
    again...

Izuka: Ahem! Enough of the pleasantries, then. Shall we get down to business?
    Well then, Micaiah of the Dawn Brigade. I henceforth appoint thee to the
    post of Vice-General of the Daein Liberation Army!

Sothe: Excuse me?! What do you mean by that?

Micaiah: Wait a moment! I appreciate the offer, Izuka, but I'm afraid I cannot
    accept. I have no war experience and no knowledge of battle tactics. Daein
    needs a general with both.

Izuka: Are you not a member of the heroic Dawn Brigade, whose conquests precede
    them?! Do you not want to save the people of Daein?! Serve the prince, and
    you can step out of the shadows and face the empire boldly, without shame!
    Why hesitate?

Sothe: This is a thinly veiled scheme...and I see right through it. You just
    want Micaiah to serve as a figurehead for your revolution.

Izuka: Is that a problem?

Sothe: Yes, that's a problem! She's not some fancy stoneware for you to set on
    display. If you're going to do this...then I cannot sign on.

Micaiah: Exactly.

Pelleas: Micaiah, please, wait! That isn't what we meant. You're not the only
    one who knows nothing about battle. I don't either. But if I don't act, the
    devastation of Daein will grow ever worse. So, I have to be brave. Please,
    I'm asking you to do the same, Micaiah... For the sake of the future of
    Daein, will you join our cause?

Micaiah: ...Prince Pelleas...I will.

Sothe: Micaiah?!

Pelleas: Thank you.

Micaiah: And in return, will you ensure, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Daein
    will be freed from the rule of the Begnion Empire?

Pelleas: I promise.

Micaiah: I trust in your word.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sothe: I can't believe you!

Micaiah: Sothe, why are you so angry about this?

Sothe: You have to ask? You know we can't live in the public eye. Doing
    something that will deliberately make you stand out... I'm just saying, it
    isn't like you, Micaiah.

Micaiah: When we were separated during the war, you changed, Sothe. And I
    changed too. I want to protect Daein more than anything. Our people must be
    saved, and if I can help in that effort, I will.

Sothe: So much so that you'll risk your life and sacrifice who you are?

Micaiah: Yes. But that isn't all. Prince Pelleas cherishes the same wish that I
    do. I can feel it. Deep in his heart, he wants to save Daein. If we work
    together, I know that we can do it.

Sothe: And you don't hear that voice we spoke of? The voice that warns you of
    impending danger?

Micaiah: It's all right, Sothe. The visions I see spreading out before us...
   most of them shine with hope.

Sothe: All right. I trust you. More importantly, I believe in you. I won't
    resist anymore. But let me just say one thing.

Micaiah: What?

Sothe: I will protect you.

Micaiah: I know that! Why do you think you need to say it?

Sothe: I just wanted to make sure you knew. [leaves]

Micaiah: ...Thank you, Sothe.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Three years past, Daein mustered all of its formidable military might and cut a
bloody swath through neighboring Crimea in a sudden invasion. Daein was
defeated, however, and the dreams of its ruler, Mad King Ashnard, died with
him.

Ashnard's son, Pelleas, possesses a gentle sincerity that is a bright
counterpoint to his late father's violence and duplicity. Ill-suited though he
seems for these troubled times, his presence is a welcome sight of Micaiah's
eyes. Pelleas, declared rightful heir to the throne, finds his name becoming a
rallying cry for Daein. At his side is the only person he believes can lead his
Liberation Army...the Silver-Haired Maiden.



=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=
Chapter 1-6: Raise the Standard                                         [*1.06]
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

(Free state of Marado, inside the Kingdom of Daein)

Begnion: Assembling is forbidden! All violators will be punished immediately!

Man: Assembling? We were just talking around the well...

Begnion: Silence! No excuses!

[he stabs and kills him]

Man: Gyaaahhh!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fiona: Can I really have just seen that?

Jarod: Lady Fiona. The self-proclaimed "Liberation Army" is on the march.
    Marado's army has been ordered to deploy with us.

Fiona: Understood, General. We will prepare immediately. But I need to address
    your soldiers' conduct--

Jarod: A new war is afoot. You never answered Ashnard's call to arms in the
    last one. You have a reputation for ruling wisely. Don't endanger your
    people by hurling ugly accusations at my soldiers. I trust I needn't worry
    that you'll fail to answer the empire's call.

Fiona: I will not lie to you. My people are proud citizens of Daein, and some
    agree with these so-called liberators. However, I will not lead my people
    into danger over ridiculous rumors of some unknown orphan prince.

Jarod: I'm glad to hear it.

[Fiona rides away]

Jarod: I need a volunteer. Follow that woman's every move. I trust her no
    farther than I can throw her.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Daein Liberation Camp)

[Sothe and Micaiah walk into a tent]

Izuka: Well, well! The rumors that my...operatives started have spread like
    wildfire through all of Daein! "Late King Ashnard's orphan surfaces!"
    "Silver-Haired Maiden at Prince Pelleas's side!" Now that we have the
    people's attention...we snag their hearts! We'll just extol the savior, fan
    the rebellion, go to battle...and conquer the enemy in a blaze of glory!

Sothe: Do we have sufficient forces to arouse said rebellion and achieve
    victory?

Izuka: You let me worry about that. This highly sophisticated strategizing is
    beyond your young minds! Worry not, my prince. After painstaking
    investigation, I have determined the exact locations to target! Gather
    'round, all of you! Hear my plan for our next strike.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Izuka: If the Liberation Army attacks any of these places, we are assured of an
    absolute victory.


Pelleas: Masterful as always, Izuka. It's good to know I can count on you.

Izuka: First, we'll target Talrega. It borders the frontier, Begnion's hold is
    shaky...and resentment runs high.

Micaiah: No. Talrega is no good.

Izuka: Wha-what was that!? On what grounds are my decisions being questioned by
    this...this child?!

Micaiah: The timing is wrong. Because of the rains, we won't be able to advance
    well, let alone fight.

Jill: It's true. I'm from Talrega, and I remember well the landslides and
    floods that come every spring. The mountain road leading to that particular
    work camp is notoriously dangerous.

Izuka: Wha-what?! Impossible! My...my strategy is flawless, perfect even. Hmph,
    I never...

Sothe: Micaiah, where do you think we should attack?

Micaiah: ... Terin... We'll have better luck in Terin.

Tauroneo: Terin, too, lies in the mountains, but in the arid northern region,
    where the weather is predictable.

Pelleas: Micaiah, you're amazing! I count my blessings to have you as
    vice-general. You give me hope.

Jill: Lady Micaiah, few outsiders know of the landslides in Talrega. Have you
    been there before?

Sothe: Micaiah is a powerful seer. We in the Dawn Brigade owe our lives and
    our freedom to her abilities.

Izuka: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhggghhhk!

Pelleas: Goodness, Izuka, what is it?

Izuka: She can foresee battle outcomes!? Magnificent! Why didn't anybody tell
    me of this? This only makes the maiden that much more appealing. And let us
    just be honest here, my foresight in decreeing her vice-general was
    wondrous--nay, genius!

Sothe: ...

Izuka: Excellent. Well then, yes. All bow to the maiden's vision. Let's leave
    the camp and make for Terin!

---------------------------------------------------------{base conversations}--

[Chapter 1-6; Outside the Village] (***)

???: Yes, that's what I heard! What with that light...and that silver...

[a woman appears]

Lass: Could she... Could she be the Silver-Haired Maiden?

Micaiah: Hm?

Lass: Oh, it is! It is you!

Grandmother: Oh... Oh, my...

Lass: You're fighting with King Ashnard's son to free Daein, aren't you? Oh,
    we've heard so much about you!

Grandmother: Oh...what a blessing! What a blessing!

Lass: We're all waiting! We're waiting for the day you free us from those
    filthy Begnion pigs!

Grandmother: Please...take...this.

Lass: It's not much, but people from all over the village pitched in.

Micaiah: Oh, no, I couldn't possibly...

Sothe: Thank you. We appreciate your kindness.

Grandmother: ...

Lass: We're all counting on you! Please, free us! [they leave]

Micaiah: ...

Sothe: Looks like Izuka's propaganda is working fast.

Micaiah: Mm.

Sothe: You didn't want me to take the money, did you?

Micaiah: It's not that. It's just... Oh, never mind.

Sothe: Oh, come on. What did I do this time? You're not going to say? Great. In
    that case, let's get out of here and go find the others.

[You got 1000 gold]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Chapter 1-6; Kurth] (***)

Kurth: So, you're staying, then?

Almedha: I appreciate your concern. However, I--

Kurth: You can't leave Prince Pelleas's side. Is that not so?

Almedha: That's right.

Kurth: Then take this, at least.
Almedha: A sending stone?

Kurth: Do you remember how to use one?

Almedha: Of course I remember how to use one. But it's such a precious gift...
    Are you sure about this? Thank you, Kurth.

???: Kurth! Where are you?

Almedha: I must go now.

Kurth: Please, remain safe.

Almedha: You as well. [leaves]

Kurth: ...

Micaiah: Kurth?

Kurth: Micaiah. How nice to see you.

Micaiah: Kurth, I'm leaving for Terin. I know this is sudden. To tell the
    truth, I'm surprised too.

Kurth: I see. You are off to perform your first duties as a general of this
    "Liberation Army".

Micaiah: Yes.

Kurth: I abhor violence. I do not think you should fight.

Micaiah: Kurth, I'm not fighting because I enj--

Kurth: I know. I know you wish there were another way. And I understand that
    you feel this is what you must do to save your country.

Micaiah: ...

Kurth: Here, take this.

Micaiah: What is it?

Kurth: May it serve to protect you. Micaiah, I must leave you now. I am going
    home to my own country.

Micaiah: What? So suddenly?

Kurth: I'm sorry, Micaiah. Being so close to battle frightens me, to tell the
    truth. Thank you for rescuing me. And thank you for the short time we spent
    together. I enjoyed it immensely.

Micaiah: Will I ever see you again?

Kurth: Who knows? Why don't we... Yes. Let us leave it up to the goddess.

Micaiah: I suppose we must.

[You got a Renewal]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Terin)

Begnion: A small troop approaches from the east! It appears to be the Daein
    Liberation Army!

Laverton: ...Blissfully ignorant of the trap that awaits them. I pity them,
    really. Have the first platoon assume their battle positions!

[the soldiers run away; Fiona runs up]

Fiona: Shall we deploy too?

Laverton: Kind of you to offer, Lady Fiona. But the first platoon will suffice
    here. This is really none of Marado's business.

Fiona: I see. In that case, we'll use this opportunity to observe the empire's
    army at work.

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

Laverton: Hornet hairs! At this rate they'll breach our lines before we can
    stop them. I have no choice. You! Bring out the prisoners!

[several villagers appear]

Boy: I'm sc-scared! Please don't hurt me.

Fiona: Lord Laverton, exactly what are you planning to do?!

Laverton: This so-called "Liberation Army" is forcing me to sacrifice this boy!

Boy: Help!

Micaiah: No!

Sothe: Micaiah!

Laverton: Fight, and these people will be executed right now! Surrender, and
    they will be spared.

Micaiah: ...Everyone, throw down your weapons.

Sothe: You have a feeling, don't you? Got it. We'll follow your instinct.

Laverton: Ha ha ha ha ha... A wise choice, girl! Well, no more need for these
    prisoners, is there? Kill them all!

Fiona: No!

[Fiona's group seize the prisoners and rescue them]

Laverton: What do you think you're doing?

Fiona: I'll have nothing to do with you and your monstrous tactics!

Laverton: So, you betray us after all. Marado has never been known for holding
    its faith. You'll die like the rest!

Sothe: A troop of Daein cavalry just mutinied. Is this what you sensed?

Micaiah: Yes. Now we must reinforce them and help save the hostages!

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

Laverton: Y-you pretentious little fools. I'll show you how insignificant you
    are!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]

Micaiah: Making hostages of the helpless. Is that how knights of the great
    Begnion Empire operate?

Laverton: Shut up, shut up, shut up!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Laverton: Gu...uarrgh... You...disgust...me...

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Micaiah: Dear boy, I'm sorry you had to suffer on our account.

Boy: I wasn't scared! I knew the Dawn Brigade would save us. Thank you!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fiona: Thank you for rescuing my people.

Tauroneo: Your people? So you must be--

Fiona: Yes. I am Lanvega's daughter, Fiona. After my father died, I assumed the
    governance of Marado.

Micaiah: General Lanvega? From the song? "Bryce, Tauroneo, Gawain, and
    Lanvega... Four Riders of Daein, one country, one king, While they bear our
    banner, A free Daein shall sing." You're THAT General Lanvega's daughter?

Tauroneo: Indeed... Lanvega, of the Four Riders. He was a good friend, and a
    mighty swordsman as well. And stubborn as a mule. Your father was a
    powerful warrior of unquestionable integrity. A great man.

Fiona: Yes. And that's why he renounced his rank and title as Rider and
    withdrew from court life, rather than serve King Ashnard. You've heard the
    rumors, no doubt, that Ashnard murdered his own father? My father could not
    serve such a man... And so, to protect Marado from a madman, we did not
    send men to fight for Daein in the war. I doubt you could ever forgive
    us...

Micaiah: No, quite the opposite. You are these people's steward, and you chose
    the course that would protect them. But now, Begnion is willing to
    sacrifice innocent children to maintain their grip over our country. We
    cannot allow that. That is why we are asking you to lend your strength to
    the Liberation Army. Together, we can reclaim our country.

Fiona: And now, you ask us to bear part of the burden of restoring our
    motherland? If you would have my lance, then... I, Fiona, Steward of
    Marado, do gladly swear allegiance to your Liberation Army. I and my men
    bind ourselves to your fate. Use my army as best you see fit.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Daein Keep)

Jarod: And now, Marado betrays us as well? You are aware that riots broke out
    in three other regions yesterday, are you not? ...All quelled immediately,
    of course, but the unrest grows.

Numida: Who cares what the commoners do or think? Does the shepherd fuss when
    his sheep butt their heads against the fence post?

Jarod: Nevertheless, as the insurgence grows, news of it will inevitably reach
    Begnion.

Numida: Yes... I see what you mean. That would be...less than desirable.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[cutscene - image of Sephiran]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jarod: The Imperial Prime Minister Sephiran casts a grim eye on dishonesty. If
    he finds out what has been going on in Daein under our rule...

Numida: That would not be good. Sephiran's persistent as a mosquito and quick
    to judge. Though you and I know I have been nothing but fair and just in my
    rule here...it's best to avoid an inquiry.

Jarod: Which leaves us but one recourse... Crush the rebel faction before it
    grows larger. Exterminate them. Then the commoners, bereft of all hope,
    will turn their sheep eyes back to us and beg to rejoin the flock.

Numida: I see. Well, I leave the matter in your hands. What funding you need is
    yours.

Jarod: I'm glad we agree on this. Well then, pardon me, sir, while I tend to
    our little lambs on the loose.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Liberation Army's sweeping victory seems to signal a turn in the war for
Daein. However, General Jarod uses his superior numbers to harry the group and
threaten their fragile momentum. Begnion has fortified its army with weapons
and supplies bought with funds stolen from Daein. Begnion has also purchased
the swords of a vast number of mercenaries from these same stolen funds.

The Liberation Army does not want for willing fighters of its own. However,
most are old men and inexperienced boys whose passion far outstrips their
skill. The Liberation Army has no choice: it must bolster its ranks if it is to
meet Begnion on equal terms. Its only hope lies locked in Begnion's prison
camps, where Daein's former soldiers await their rescue.



=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=
Chapter 1-7: A Gathering Hope                                           [*1.07]
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

Izuka: Ahem! As general staff officer of Daein's Liberation Army, allow me to
    outline my latest strategy.

Micaiah: Excuse me, but shouldn't Prince Pelleas be here?

Izuka: There's no need to distract the prince with the war's petty details. He
    won't be coming to any more meetings. From now on, consider my words the
    prince's own.

Micaiah: I'm not sure that's--

Izuka: Enough idle chatter. Come have a glance, my pretties.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Izuka: Our next target shall be Umono. Among all the work camps, it is one of
    the largest.

Tauroneo: Conditions within the prison camp are harsh. If we are to save the
    prisoners, every moment matters.

Sothe: One of the largest work camps... Can our forces handle that?

Izuka: ...Suck a trivial concern, and one my profound genius has already
    addressed! Behold this lake next to the camp that provides fresh water to
    all there. Into this lake, we shall dump a deadly toxin of my own
    devising! Then we'll sit back...as the enemy slowly dies.

Micaiah: What are you saying?! Poison is inexcusably vile! I will agree to no
    such plan.

Izuka: Wha-wha-what was that?! You! You! How dare you question my plan,
    conceived in a state of exalted meditation!

Micaiah: No matter how misguided the enemy may be, we must fight with
    compassion and consideration for the innocent.

Sothe: She's right. Poison doesn't discriminate. Prisoners would die too. And
    any nearby villages would be affected. And then what would happen? People
    would doubt us, question our cause, maybe even side against us. And it
    would cast a stain on Prince Pelleas's name, don't you think?

Izuka: Errrrrgh... Fine then! Do as you like! And when you find yourselves
    utterly defeated, you can come crawling back to me! [leaves]

Tauroneo: My apologies to both of you. When Lord Izuka gets excited, he can
    lose all sight of reason.

Micaiah: I apologize too, General Tauroneo. He stormed out because I--

Tauroneo: You needn't apologize. ?You are in the right. I would never condone
    the use of poison. However, this does mean we must devise another plan if
    we are to have any hope of victory.

Micaiah: Yes, you're right. In that case, what do you think of this strategy?

---------------------------------------------------------{base conversations}--

[Chapter 1-7; Pelleas] (***)

Pelleas: Sorry to call you here like this. Forgive me.

Micaiah: It's quite all right.

Pelleas: Can I pour you some tea? Or is there something else you would prefer?

Micaiah: I'm fine, thank you. What did you want to speak with me about?

Pelleas: I know you are angry with me. Please, forgive me.

Micaiah: Can you tell me why you stopped showing up at our meetings?

Pelleas: It was at Izuka's request.

Micaiah: You are the leader of this army! You cannot simply leave all the
    decisions to someone else!

Pelleas: ...I'm sorry. I'll ask Izuka before the next meeting. I need his
    permission to attend.

Micaiah: Why? You're the prince. Why should you need any man's permission, much
    less your own advisor's?

Pelleas: Yes, I am the prince, but...I owe much to Izuka. He taught me
    everything I needed to know to become a proper member of the royal family.
    He contacted Tauroneo and the other senators from Daein for help. Without
    his power and influence, I would never have mustered an army--or met my own
    mother.

Micaiah: I see. You were alone...

Pelleas: Pardon?

Micaiah: And then Izuka reunited you with your mother, gave you a place to
    stay, and provided you with a reason to live. And you feel you owe him a
    debt of gratitude for ending your loneliness. That is why you try to do as
    you are told--as Izuka wishes.

Pelleas: Micaiah, you're--

Micaiah: I'm sorry! I didn't mean to-- That was inappropriate.

Pelleas: You're amazing!

Micaiah: Amazing?

Pelleas: You really can read minds! I'm simply amazed! You saw right through
    me!

Micaiah: ...

Pelleas: Sorry, I got too excited. Look at me, I'm sweating.

Micaiah: Prince Pelleas!

Pelleas: What is it? Why are you looking at me like that?

Micaiah: That mark...

Pelleas: Oh...that.

Micaiah: What is it?

Pelleas: It's called the Spirit's Protection. The source of all magic in this
    world is tied to the power of the spirits. When you make a pact with such a
    spirit, its power manifests on your body like this.

Micaiah: I...see.

Pelleas: What am I saying? You already know all of this, of course. You have
    the Spirit's Protection, too.

Micaiah: What?

Pelleas: I saw you washing your hands the other day. When I walked up to you to
    say hello, Is aw the mark on your right hand.

Micaiah: You saw...

Pelleas: I thought of confiding in you right away, but my mother called for me.
    I didn't get a chance to tell you until now.

Micaiah: Do you think this mark is really the Spirit's Protection?

Pelleas: Oh! You didn't enter into the pact yourself?

Micaiah: No.

Pelleas: I see. So, it must have been the spirit who wished to make a pact with
    you.

Micaiah: Pardon?

Pelleas: It's a very rare phenomenon among newborns. Usually it happens to
    infants who have an exceptional talent for magic. You truly are amazing,
    Micaiah.

Micaiah: I don't know about that...

Pelleas: Let's keep this among ourselves... We don't want people to confuse us
    with the Branded.

Micaiah: What are the "Branded"?

Pelleas: I'm pretty sure it refers to beorc who have laguz blood in their
    veins. I know, it's hard to imagine someone with the blood of a sub-human
    running through their veins. Anyway, I've been terribly mistreated by
    people who thought I was one of the Branded.

Micaiah: ...

Pelleas: Micaiah?

Micaiah: Oh...sorry. I think I understand more about you now, and about the
    marks we share...

Pelleas: I'm glad I was able to tell you. I'm surprised you didn't know. Come
    talk to me again sometime.

Micaiah: Certainly.

Pelleas: Oh, I almost forgot. Here. I wanted to give you this.

Micaiah: What is it?

Pelleas: It's this splendid sword I recently acquired. It gives its wielder the
    upper hand in battle. Keep it or give it to whomever you like.

Micaiah: Shouldn't you give it to the soldier you deem most worthy?

Pelleas: No, I wouldn't want the soldiers thinking I'm giving anyone special
    treatment. It would be inappropriate. That's what Izuka says, anyway. So I
    think you should do it.

Micaiah: I understand. You must have so much on your mind.

Pelleas: Indeed. I long for the hold days when I was poor, but had few worries.

Micaiah: Prince Pelleas...

Pelleas: But I'll keep fighting. I won't stop until Daein is free once more.

Micaiah: Hear, hear!

[You got a Brave Sword]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Umono Prison Camp)

Djur: What?! An enemy attack?

Begnion: Yes, sir! The Liberation Army has mounted an assault on the gate! We
    require reinforcements!

Djur: Hmph. They seek to free their men? My elite guard shall stay here with
    me. Take the rest to squash these "rebels"!

Begnion: But, sir, if your guard remains here, we'll have barely enough men
    to--

Djur: Who do you think you're talking to, soldier? With my guard and me at the
    ready, this camp need fear no attack. Understood? Now go! You have your
    orders!

[the soldier leaves]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sothe: Looks like Tauroneo has them distracted. They've left only a small
    force here to defend the camp itself.

Micaiah: Perfect. That should make it easier for us to eliminate their
    defenses, seize the camp, and free the prisoners.

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

Tormod: What do you think, Muarim? Is that the building Sothe's in?

Muarim: Most likely, little one.

Vika: So, are we gonna help them, or should we just stand here all day and
    twiddle our thumbs?

Tormod: What do you think? We're helping, of course! Keep up, Muarim! Come on,
    Vika!

Vika: Hey, boss! Wait a second! I'll be... He's already out of sight. How does
    he do that on those skinny beorc legs?

Muarim: Who do you think taught him how to run? We'd better go after him.

-------------------------------------------------------------{Tormod appears}--

???: Sooooo--ooothe!

Sothe: Huh?! What...

Micaiah: Eh?

Tormod: Have no fear...Tormod is here! I'm coming to your rescue!

Sothe: Tormod?! You crazy fool...

Zihark: Time for the trusty hero to save the day, I see. Still quite the
    showman, eh, Tormod?

Jill: It's more like a reunion every moment. Now if Haar were just here...

Tormod: All right! Let's go wild!

[Muarim and Vika transform]

Begnion: Ah...eyahhhhhhh! Sub-human! It's a sub-human!

Begnion: Calm down! Just use fire magic for the beasts and wind for the birds!
    That'll do the trick. That child hasn't transformed yet! Nab him before he
    does!

Tormod: Fool! Transforming ain't what I do. But I can do this...

[he kills the soldier with fire magic]

Begnion: He-he's a mage! Fall back! Don't get too close to him!

Micaiah: Who in the world are they?

Sothe: People I used to know. I'll introduce you later, but for now, let's

    concentrate on the fight.

--------------------------------------------------------{talk; Sothe, Tormod}--

Sothe: Hey, Tormod!

Tormod: You! What in blazes did you do?! You scurvy traitor!

Sothe: What are you talking about?

Tormod: You grew! Too tall!

Sothe: And to think, I expected you to make sense. I have more important things
    to tend to.

Tormod: Hey, it's important to me!

Sothe: What I'd really like to hear about is that issue I asked you to look
    into... How did it go?

Tormod: I have news to report. But! There's no time to chat in the thick of a
    fight. I'll tell you later!

Sothe: Hey! Drat!

--------------------------------------------------------{talk; Sothe, Muarim}--

Sothe: Ah, hello. It's been a while.

Muarim: Little Sothe... You've grown up.

Sothe: Why does everybody keep saying that?

Muarim: Hmm?

Sothe: You know, "little"?

Muarim: Oh, sorry. I guess I have to respect your manly pride now.

Sothe: Yes, please. Or something like that.

Muarim: "Sir Sothe." Will that do?

Sothe: Sothe will do. Just Sothe.

Muarim: I'm afraid I could never speak so familiarly with my little one's good
    friend. So, with your permission... Sir Sothe.

Sothe: No! That doesn't... Ohhh, never mind!

---------------------------------------------------------{talk; Jill, Muarim}--

Jill: Muarim, do you remember me?

Muarim: Indeed I do, Jill.

Jill: I'm glad. So why are you in Daein?

Muarim: You'll have to ask the little one. I merely trail around after him.

Jill: I see. I will ask him. Thank you for helping us today.

Muarim: It is an honor.

---------------------------------------------------------{talk; Jill, Tormod}--

Jill: Tormod!

Tormod: If it isn't Jill!

Jill: Thanks for fighting beside us. It's a big help.

Tormod: Ah, it's nothing!

Jill: How did you happen to...

Tormod: An enemy! Excellent! Leave him to me! [exits]

Jill: There he goes... At least some things never change.

-------------------------------------------------------{talk; Zihark, Tormod}--

Zihark: Hey there, Tormod. You're looking well.

Tormod: So you're here too, eh, Zihark?

Zihark: Polished your mage skills over the last few years, I see.

Tormod: But of course! I'll toast anyone who dares oppose me!

Zihark: Really? Well then, why don't you take on the rest of the guards while I
    sit back and take a break? [leaves]

Tormod: You know what I mean! Get back here and fight like you mean it! Zihark!

-------------------------------------------------------{talk; Zihark, Muarim}--

Zihark: Muarim!

Muarim: Zihark, has it been three years?

Zihark: First Crimea, now Daein. Never a dull day! Still, it's good to fight
    with you again.

Muarim: You can say that again.

Zihark: OK. It's good to fight with you again.

Muarim: Beorc humor is so...odd. But you know I feel the same.

------------------------------------------------------------{prisoner rescue}--

Ex-Daein: Y-you really came to save us? Thank you. Oh, thank you. You have no
    idea how scared I've been. I'm so glad I didn't give up. We knew the Maiden
    of Miracles would free us.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ex-Daein: Thank you! I'm saved! I couldn't have held on any longer... I'm going
    to make a run for it. I refuse to die in this pit of despair. I choose to
    live and return to my family!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ex-Daein: This isn't a dream? I can really leave this miserable cage? Oh, thank
    you. Thank you! You've saved my life!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ex-Daein: You're the Liberation Army. I've heard about you... I'll never forget
    my debt to you. If I survive and make it home, I vow to devote the rest of
    my life to your cause. I'll fight for Daein honor, like you do.

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

Djur: Errrrrgh...! Blundering through like a bull in a china shop... Come
    closer, so I can shatter your ambition like glass! I will beat into your
    very bones just who rules this land!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]
Micaiah: We are the Daein Liberation Army! We demand you free the hostages...
    or face the consequences!

Djur: Of all the ridiculous... All of you pigs from Daein will be our slaves
    'til you die! It's your destiny. What need have swine for freedom? Swine
    are happier being kept...and consumed.

Micaiah: If that's how you really feel, then....

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Djur: They were...worthless, trivial... Only...scum of Daein... How? How...
    could that filth have...

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Izuka: S-see here! Sothe! Who were those three, and where did they come from?
    Will they join my Liberation Army?

Sothe: They are my personal acquaintances from Begnion. And yeah, they can
    handle themselves in a fight. But if any more laguz join us, there will be
    problems. We've managed to hide Volug and his true nature, but...with more
    laguz, it will surely get out.

Izuka: Any such backlash can be extinguished with proper punishment. But
    laguz... They're powerful! (And expendable...) Just what we need. By all
    means, invite them to join!

Sothe: They're good friends. I'm sure they'll agree to help if I ask (you
    mumbling creep). But... Isn't it the prince--and not you--who should make
    those decisions?

Izuka: Question me not, young Sothe. My words are the prince's words. You need
    to understand that. Isn't that right, my prince?

Pelleas: Ah, ah, yes, that's right. You should do as Izuka wishes.

Sothe: I...see.

Izuka: I'm glad you see. Now, quickly, quickly...go talk to your friends. And
    see to it you don't foul up.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sothe: How did you get here so soon? More importantly, how did the
    investigation go?

Tormod: It went great! In fact, we finished up so quickly that we flew here to
    back you up in case you needed help.

Micaiah: Um...

Tormod: Oh, sorry I haven't introduced myself yet. You're Micaiah, I take it?
    I'm Tormod! Three years back, Sothe and I were in the Crimean Army...sorta.
    We fought side by side as mercenaries under Ike.

Micaiah: Of course...General Ike...again.

Tormod: I beg your pardon?

Micaiah: Nothing. Don't mind me. So, anyway, what is this investigation Sothe
    requested of you?

Sothe: I began to doubt that the apostle--Begnion's empress--actually knew what
    was happening in Daein. At only thirteen, the apostle may be young, but
    she's proud and upstanding. She'd never let these kinds of things happen to
    Daein. So, I asked Tormod to fill her in on what was really happening here.

Tormod: This is what we learned... The apostle had noticed something shady
    about Daein. She was investigating on her own. She traced the ones pulling
    the strings to a certain faction of senators. Now, she's snapping mad, but
    without proof, she can't publicly move against them.

Sothe: The apostle is the highest power in Daein... Even so, she and the senate
    are rarely on good terms with each other.

Tormod: Sothe, she promised she'd help us however she can. She said to do
    whatever is necessary... And that inspired me to find you sooner than
    later.

Sothe: I see. So... I can depend on having you three around, for at least a
    little while?

Tormod: Yeah! Your old pal here is gonna take care of everything. Just try
    getting rid of me!

Sothe: I can only try!

Tormod: What do you mean by that?! Ah, you're as blockheaded as ever.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Micaiah: That Sothe... He looks happy, for some reason.

Muarim: Because he's reunited with my little one?

Micaiah: That must be it... Oh, Sothe, ever since he was small, he's tried to
    act more grown up than the grown-ups... I've taken care of him so long, and
    still I've never seen him smile so easily before.

Muarim: Hm... Watch what you say. Comments like that... They reveal that your
    appearance belies your true age.

Micaiah: What are you--

Muarim: Among the laguz, there are those who detest and revile half-breeds such
    as yourself. They call you "parentless," and deny you any laguz heritage,
    honor, or dignity. Take due care.

Micaiah: Oh... Oh no...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Laguz warriors led by Tormod join the escaped prisoners, and Daein's army grows
ever larger. Its victories at Talrega and other locations have strengthened its
position. The army rides across the land, liberating prisoners from Begnion
encampments. The Daein ranks swell with the influx of veteran soldiers, and the
men begin to dream of the day when they may retake the capital.

Like a fever, conflict grips the nation. The night will be long before this
fever breaks. All eyes turn towards Daein's capital as the liberation begins
what all believe will be a long and bloody march.



=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=
Chapter 1-8: Glory Unwanted                                             [*1.08]
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

(Daein Keep)

Jarod: You summoned me, Your Grace?

Numida: Jarod, there is trouble. The apostle has formed an inspection team.
    She's dispatching it to Daein.

Jarod: Oh-ho...

Numida: I've arranged to meet with the senate's vice-minister, Duke Gaddos. If
    we ask him the favor... I imagine he could discreetly sweep their findings
    under the rug. But in the meantime, you MUST obliterate the insurgents!
    Once that is done, we'll devise excuses.

Jarod: Understood, sir.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alder: What's the plan? Will the senators be able to cover up this mess?

Jarod: If the inspection team and the rebel army ever cross paths...even the
    senate won't be able to hide the truth. We'll lure the rebels to Shifu
    Swamp. We'll plant tales of a mass execution there, and they'll be sure to
    come. Then, we'll trap the malcontents and wipe them from the face of the
    land.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Micaiah heals a soldier with a glow from her hands]

Daein: It's amazing... My wound is healed. I give you thanks. I never thought
    I'd see the Silver-Haired Maiden work miracles before my very eyes.

[a woman enters the tent]

Prisoner: Silver-Haired Maiden! Help them! You must help them!

Micaiah: Help who? What's going on? Calm down and tell me.

Prisoner: They're killing our men! I beg you, please, save them!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pelleas: Prisoners from Joad Work Camp are being collected in Shifu Swamp and
    executed...

Tauroneo: Not only Joad. There's reportedly a plan to exterminate all prisoners
    in every camp and let the swamp conceal the remains.

Izuka: I've heard nothing of such a plan! It's a false rumor! Or an enemy trap!

Micaiah: It may indeed be a trap. But if we don't investigate, we risk a mass
    execution!

Izuka: And what if it is a trap and they vanquish the Liberation Army? The
    dream of restoring Daein to glory will die instantly! For the good of
    Daein's future, we must ignore this threat.

Micaiah: ...I understand. And that's why I won't take any troops. Only
    myself...and my old friends will go.

Pelleas: Mi-Micaiah!

Micaiah: If you refuse them your permission, I will go alone. [leaves]

Izuka: Stop right there, little lady!! I will not authorize this action without
    the prince's full approval!

Pelleas: Izuka... Let her do as she wishes. Please. She hasn't disappointed us
    yet.

Izuka: My prince... Hrrgh! Fine. But I can't help but feel as if these children
    are running your army.

---------------------------------------------------------{base conversations}--

[Chapter 1-8; Sothe] (*)

Sothe: We're just about ready. Let's talk to Tormod, and--

Micaiah: ...

Sothe: Micaiah?

Micaiah: Oh, sorry.

Sothe: Hey, remember our promise from three years ago? There are no secrets
    between us.

Micaiah: Sothe, Muarim knows that I'm older than I look.

Sothe: I see. Well, don't worry too much about it. You can trust him.

Micaiah: Yes, I'm sure of that. Muarim seems very trustworthy. But, what about
    everyone else? What would they think if they knew all of my abilities came
    from the mixed blood running through my veins? Blood they consider cursed!

Sothe: Micaiah, stop...

Micaiah: Right now, when they look at me, they have love and affection in their
    eyes, but would they look at me the same way if they knew? I don't want to
    find out, Sothe. I don't think I could bear the truth.

Sothe: You know, we can stop.

Micaiah: What do you mean?

Sothe: Look, this was an impossible situation to begin with. You've always led
    such a secluded life... Ever since you were thrust into this position, I
    worried that the pressure might get to you.

Micaiah: You're right. I knew it would turn out like this. Despite that, I
    accepted the job. I can't stop now.

Sothe: But, Micaiah...

Micaiah: Listen, Sothe. I realized something after Daein lost the war.

Sothe: What's that?

Micaiah: I realized how much I loved my country.

Sothe: And?

Micaiah: During the war, I spent a lot of time with the people of Daein while I
    was waiting for you to return. After we lost the war, all our cities and
    towns had been reduced to ruins. We had to help each other to cope. We
    supported and comforted each other. That's how we survived.

Sothe: You never mentioned this before.

Micaiah: I've been secluded so long, I had no idea people were so strong...and
    kind. No one knew who I was, but they helped me because I was from Daein.
    They were so...loving. They were my friends.

Sothe: And now you won't leave them.

Micaiah: I was touched by their kindness. Now, I'm scared to lose it. Very
    scared.

Sothe: Micaiah...

Micaiah: I suppose this isn't the time to worry about such things. If my power
    is needed to liberate Daein, I will stand my ground and fight.

Sothe: Well, not to spoil your resolve... But if things get too hot, I'm just
    going to grab you and run.

Micaiah: Sothe...

Sothe: Friends and Daein are important, but not as important as you are to me.
    Remember that.

Micaiah: ...All right. Thank you, Sothe.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Radmin: Good. You may begin!

Bandit: Here, have a little swim!

[prisoners are shoved into the swamp]

Youth: Aaaaaaaahhh! No! Nooo! Help, someone!

Micaiah: Stop! [kills bandit with light]

[Sothe kills another]

Begnion: You're that...bleeding-heart filth!

Micaiah: We are the Daein Liberation Army! Everyone, hold tight! You'll be safe
    soon!

Youth: Look at her hair... Could it be the Silver-Haired Maiden? Our country's
    savior, come to rescue us?

Youth: The Savior of Daein!

Radmin: Whether they suspected a trap or not, they're here. Brazen fools! All
    hands, take battle positions!

[soldiers appear]

Radmin: Silver-haired wench! I'm going to drown you and all of Daein's hopes in
    these filthy waters! You've no escape!

Micaiah: So...it's a trap after all.

Sothe: Don't get too smug, you cruel cowards! We have a little something up our
    sleeves too. Tormod! Here's your chance!

[Tormod, Vika, and Muarim appear, who transform and kill the bandits them]

Micaiah: Lady Nailah! Volug!

[Nailah and Volug appear and kill the bandits around them]

Begnion: Su-sub-humans! They're everywhere! How?

Micaiah: Rafiel, even you came to help?

[Rafiel uses chant, Nailah and Volug strike again]

Micaiah: What happened just now? What was that strange song?

Sothe: That was Vigor, a heron galdr that can reenergize our allies in a fight.
    Don't be distracted, Micaiah! Let's set our formation while we can.

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

------------------------------------------------------{talk; Micaiah, Nailah}--

Micaiah: Queen Nailah, are you sure it's all right involving not only you, but
    Rafiel, as well?

Nailah: Rafiel can't fly, so sometimes he has trouble keeping up. But even so,
    the effects of his galdr make him a valuable asset in battle. All I ask is
    that you keep him near me, so I can keep him safe.

Micaiah: I understand. I will.

------------------------------------------------------{talk; Micaiah, Rafiel}--

Micaiah: Rafiel...why did you come? I thought herons abhorred fighting...

Rafiel: Wherever the queen goes, I follow. I practice seid magic... Even if I
    cannot fight, I can lend strength to my friends and companions.

Micaiah: Yes, I heard you singing to Queen Nailah and Volug earlier. We are
    blessed to have you at our side.

Rafiel: And if I sing to you, I can restore your spirits as well, so that you
    might attack your foes swiftly.

Micaiah: So you will help us?

Rafiel: Helping you would give me great joy.

Micaiah: You have my thanks.

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

Radmin: Silver-Haired Maiden, or whoever you really are! I knew you'd come! I
    knew how your reputation would suffer if you abandoned these prisoners
    here. You had no choice but to come.

Micaiah: How many innocent, defenseless people have you ordered killed...just
    to lure me here?

Radmin: Look who's passing judgment! Maiden of Miracles, Savior of Daein...
    You've spun quite a pack of lies to inspire your conquered people. But that
    ends here, wench! Let's show them how insignificant you really are!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Radmin: That wench...her powers...much...too dangerous... She mustn't be
    allowed...to...

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Micaiah: We're nearly back to camp. I wonder if the prince will overlook the
    fact that I insisted on this mission?

Sothe: I'm sure he'll be happy when he sees the prisoners are safe.

Micaiah: Sothe...do you hear a noise coming from the canyon? Is it...people
    shouting?

[Sothe and Micaiah run to the edge of the cliff to see a crowd of people]

Daein: Look! Look up there! The Maiden has returned! And the prisoners are with
    her!

Daein: She won another victory! She escaped their trap and destroyed the
    enemy...again!

Daein: Radiant with divine protection, she truly has the goddess's blessing!
    The Silver-Haired Maiden! Our priestess!

Daein: Priestess...of Dawn! Hooray, Lady Micaiah!

[the soldiers raise their lances to her]

Micaiah: What could they be celebrating?

[Nailah and Rafiel walk up]

Nailah: It seems the soldiers are celebrating your liberation of the prisoners.
    You should wave to them. People like their heroes to seem approachable. It
    would make them happy.

Micaiah: I'm no hero... But I see what you mean. [turns, looks at Sothe and
    after some back and forth hesitation, waves]

Daein: What a glorious sight she is!

Daein: Lady Micaiah! Lady Micaiah, the Priestess of Dawn!

[Micaiah continues to wave at the soldiers]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Micaiah stands alone, Sothe walks up to her]

Sothe: Here you are. I've been looking for you.

Micaiah: Sothe, after all those soldiers cheering... I feel like I'm doing real
    good here...

Sothe: ...Micaiah?

Tormod: Sothe! Please, come quick! There's something wrong with Muarim!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Muarim: Ghh...grraaahrrrr...

Tormod: Muarim, get ahold of yourself! Look at me!

[a transformation glow emanates from Muarim]

Muarim: ...Gh... Li...ttle...one...

Tormod: This happens over and over... Muarim suddenly transforms, and...he
    growls like he's losing his mind. And if I...if I grab him and yell his
    name again and again, he returns to himself, but...then it just starts
    over. And...and...when he's growling, his eyes, they look... It's as if, as
    if one of "them" is looking at me...

Micaiah: "Them"? One of "them"? One of who?

Sothe: You can't mean... No!

Tormod: H-help him, please. I don't know what to do. The time between
    transformations is getting shorter and shorter...

Muarim: Agh... My body can't... ...No, no, no... Little one...get away...

Tormod: No, I won't let you! I'll die before I let you go feral! Muarim! Look
    at me!

[the galdr of rebirth is heard]

Sothe: That song...

[Rafiel appears; there is a loud pulsing sound and a blue sparkling glow around
    Muarim, which goes red once before disappearing]

Micaiah: Rafiel...

[Muarim collapses]

Muarim: Gh...

Tormod: Wha--! Muarim! Muarim!

Rafiel: ...The galdr of rebirth restores twisted bodies and souls to their
    proper states. He will be all right now.

Tormod: Th...thank you... Without Muarim...life would be...terrible...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Micaiah: What was that song? It was different than when he sang before...

Sothe: It was the galdr of rebirth. I heard it once before, in the war. But...
    Micaiah, what's wrong?

Micaiah: I feel...odd. Maybe it was the song... I'm shaking, for some reason...
    But I'm truly glad that Muarim will be all right...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pelleas: Feral Ones?

Sothe: In the Mad King's War... Daein's military developed living weapons. They
    were called "Feral Ones"...laguz that had been warped and twisted by
    terrible experiments.

Izuka: "Terrible," you say?! Do you mean to refute the highly effective results
    of my brilliant research?!

Micaiah: Then it was you! You secretly gave Muarim the drug to turn him into a
    Feral One!

Izuka: And what's wrong with that? Maintaining constant battle strength in
    beast state... How splendid!

Tormod: How dare you! Transforming laguz into Feral Ones dramatically shortens
    their life spans. It destroys their sense of self, and they do nothing but
    fight until they die! And you! You gave Muarim that drug!

Izuka: Pawns need no sense of self! It's only natural to sacrifice soldiers for
    victory in war!

Micaiah: You twisted maniac! You are the lowest--

Pelleas: Everybody! Wait, please! Izuka clearly did a terrible thing to that
    sub-hum--that laguz, I apologize. Tormod... I'm truly sorry. He will not
    use the drug again. So, please... Try to forgive him...

Micaiah: Prince Pelleas...

Izuka: My prince! We must not have royalty bowing and scraping before swine
    like--

Tormod: ...That's enough! [runs out of the tent]

Sothe: Tormod!

Micaiah: Let him go...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Sienne, the Begnion capital)

Sanaki: I see... Is that true?

Lekain: Yes, Apostle. Our occupation forces have engaged in appalling and
    inhumane excesses in Daein. These excesses were perpetrated entirely
    outside the knowledge of the occupational governor, Duke Numida.

Numida: I come to you penitent... Failing my duties as governor, I, Numida,
    share a measure of guilt for this disaster. I am prepared to take the
    appropriate punishment, Apostle Sanaki. However, I feel that freeing the
    people of Daein from the clutches of our oppression is our most urgent
    task...

Sanaki: Urgent, you say? Then we must make haste. We will forthwith convene an
    inspection team and request a meeting with the army led by the late King
    Ashnard's orphan. We will assure them of Begnion's intentions. Then, we
    will immediately address the occupation force's tyranny.

Lekain: Excellent! In that case, please deign to allow me, your humble servant
    Lekain, to lead the inspection team. The soldiers who have stained the
    empire's name will be toppled where they stand! I promise, they shall not
    live to return here.

Sanaki: That is unacceptable. I will decide the soldiers' punishment only after
    hearing their side. And I have chosen to appoint Sephiran, Duke Persis, to
    lead the investigation team. Is that acceptable, Sephiran?

Sephiran: I hear and I obey, my empress.

Lekain: What?! But, but, Apostle Sanaki...

Sanaki: This is a dire situation. Accordingly, I judge the prime minister, Duke
    Persis, to be more suited to the role than you, Vice-Minister Lekain. That
    is all. [leaves, along with Sephiran]

Lekain: Hrrgh...

Numida: L-Lord Lekain...! What shall I do?!

Lekain: Duke Numida, my friend... I'm afraid you must sacrifice every last
    Begnion in the Imperial Occupation Army.

Numida: What? Th-that's ridiculous! But...grrgh! Blast that spoiled brat and
    her cunning little schemes... You'll regret this, Apostle Sanaki!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Micaiah and her small band of fighters knowingly walk into a trap to save
condemned Daein prisoners. Even without the benefit of Izuka's vast information
network, news of Micaiah's heroism in Shifu Swamp spreads like wildfire across
Daein.

The once-hopeless citizens of Daein dub her the Priestess of Dawn and find
their spirits restored. In their troubled hearts, they see in her nothing less
than the promise of salvation. Throughout Daein, the people rise as one against
the brutality of their oppressors. Begnion's occupying forces cannot deal with
open war on so many fronts.

General Jarod redeploys his men to key locations to better defend the capital
city. Jarod's forces still outnumber those of the Daein liberators, and he has
hardened his defenses in hopes of holding off Micaiah's army.

The liberation forces fight with a fury not to be denied, however, and the
occupation army begins to lose its will to fight. Breaking through enemy lines
again and again, Micaiah's forces gain vital ground and momentum.

Despite the anger Micaiah feels toward Izuka for his treatment of their laguz
allies, she continues to lead the army in its lightning-quick advance. Nevassa
is now mere days away.



=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=
Chapter 1-9: One Survives                                               [*1.09]
=---=---------------------------------------------------------------------=---=

(Liberation Camp)

Tormod: Listen and be amazed! BIG news afoot! The apostle is sending an
    inspection team to investigate the occupation army's abuses!

Micaiah: Really?

Tormod: She sent me a message that preparations are finally complete. But
    wait...it gets better. She also issued an imperial edict to the occupation
    forces telling them to cease all military action immediately!

Micaiah: Does that mean the fighting is over? That we've won?

Sothe: Indeed. It's hard to believe it's over. It almost seems too easy.

Tormod: And best of all, Duke Persis is leading the inspection team! We'll be
    home free the moment they arrive. Our worries are over.

Sothe: Duke Persis...Lord Sephiran? So Apostle Sanaki's dispatching one of the
    empire's greatest men to handle this.

Micaiah: What kind of man is he?

Tormod: He is amazing...the best person ever! He's incredibly influential and
    high up, but he never stood on ceremony with us. Well, go on, you guys!
    Don't just stand there. You have to spread the news!

Sothe: We have to spread the news? Aren't you going with us?

Tormod: Umm...nah. It's mostly your doing. We'll hold back...let you take the
    glory.

Micaiah: It's Izuka, isn't it? You don't want to come because he'll be with the
    prince.

Tormod: Well, yeah, basically.

Micaiah: All right...but wait here! We'll come right back once we've announced
    the good news.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Daein Keep)

Begnion: ...In light of which, Her Imperial Highness, Empress Sanaki, has
    conveyed to you this edict. Occupation forces are to hereby lay down all
    arms, convene in Daein Keep, and await the inspection team.

Jarod: Hmmm...

Begnion: Duke Numida maintains that your forces performed alleged abuses
    independently...in flagrant violation of his orders. The apostle, in her
    mercy, will hear your testimony. Do not abuse her magnanimous spirit...and
    lose your small advantage.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jarod: Hah! What a magnificently ruthless maneuver. I didn't know Numida had it
    in him. Disowning the entire occupation army...and framing me for their
    actions. Brilliant.

Alder: So then...the game is over. Might we at least drag Duke Numida down with
    us?

Jarod: Not a chance. We are proof that Duke Numida--and therefore the entire
    senate--is corrupt. No doubt they'll work together to silence us. Besides,
    there's more tantalizing prey than those tottering relics. If I'm to fall,
    so too should the one who upended our plans and drove us to this dead
    end... That girl.

Alder: Oh... I like that. Our final mission.

Jarod: You create a diversion with the troops tonight, after dark. And I will
    seek our target...the girl's silver-maned head.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Liberation Camp)

Izuka: A-hhrrmm! Silence! Prince Pelleas would now like to favor you with a
    word. You may begin, my prince.

Daein: Am I dreaming? Everything looks so delicious! What should I eat
    first...?

Pelleas: Everyone, you've done a fine job. Once the inspection team arrives,
    Daein will be free once again! In anticipation of our emancipation, I
    invite you to eat and drink to your hearts' content.

[the soldiers cheer]

---------------------------------------------------------{base conversations}--

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Micaiah: ...Whew... Yune! What is it? You didn't need to slip away from the
    banquet, too.

[chirping]

Micaiah: Silly you! You're kind of a mysterious bird, you know that? How is it
    you can fly around even at night? [chirping]

Micaiah: Oh, Yune...for some reason...I feel so tired lately. ...But it won't
    be long... I'll go back home to Nevassa...and then...save Daein...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jarod: So, you escaped the idiot's ball to be alone? How trusting of you,
    Silver-Haired Maiden... No--I'm sorry--"Priestess of Dawn." If you really
    can work miracles, you'd best work one up for yourself now.

Micaiah: Hm? What? Oh! Begnion soldiers!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Micaiah: General Jarod?! Why are you here?

Jarod: I'm doomed, thanks to you. But if I have to go down, I'm taking someone
    with me... The vice-general to the Daein Liberation Army, the revered
    "Priestess of Dawn."

Micaiah: Even if you kill me, the kingdom of Daein will be reborn. As long as
    the prince survives, the people will fight.

Jarod: Hah! The prince! He's a sham, a travesty, a clod of mud no amount of
    polishing could shine. The real jewel--whose radiance attracts the people
    like moths to flame--is you, Priestess. And so I shall steal you and
    extinguish Daein's light of hope! Know despair, Priestess of Dawn!
    [he moves up towards her]

Micaiah: Ah!

[the Black Knight teleports in]

Jarod: Guhahh!

Micaiah: Who are you?

Black Knight: Be at ease, Maiden. I shall not let him harm you. I was once one
    of the Four Riders, serving the army of old Daein. If you recall the name
    of the Black Knight, you will withdraw from this place at once.

Jarod: Riiiight! That's precious. You're the legendary Black Knight? Maybe you
    haven't heard...he died in the war. But let's put your claim to the test,
    if only to indulge my own amusement.

Black Knight: Then have at me...and learn your folly.

Jarod: In due time. But before I bother, why don't you have a go-round with my
    restless minions? Douse the torches!

[the torches all go out]

Black Knight: Maiden. I shall be your shield. Remain by my side.

Micaiah: I will. I know I can trust you.

---------------------------------------------------------------{start battle}--

------------------------------------------------{talk; Micaiah, Black Knight}--

Micaiah: Sir Knight, how did you know I was in danger?

Black Knight: That is not important right now. Are you injured?

Micaiah: No, I'm all right.

Black Knight: Maiden, stay by me. I will not let them harm you.

Micaiah: I know you won't. Thank you.

----------------------------------------------------------------{boss battle}--

[attacking with the Black Knight]

Jarod: I see you're pretty impressed with yourself!

Black Knight: Did you think the likes of you could be a worthy opponent for me?
    Know your place.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[attacking with Micaiah]

Micaiah: General Jarod! Your occupation army has caused untold suffering to the
    people of Daein... The time has come! You must atone for your deeds!

Jarod: As if I should care one whit about the wretched worms I trample!

-----------------------------------------------------------------{end battle}--

Black Knight: Make your peace. This blow will be your end.

Jarod: Heh... How kind of you...

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[the sound of a weapon strike; Alder appears]

Alder: Gugrh...

Jarod: Alder?! You... Why are you here?

Alder: I'd rather fight beside my general than create a distraction with the
    other soldiers.

Jarod: You idiot! Who asked you to join me?

Alder: General Jarod... You are a terror to work under. Even so...I've always
    sensed a kindred spirit in you. I will follow you and fight for you...to
    the very gates of the abyss... [dies]

Jarod: He was a good soldier... What now? Why don't you kill me?

Black Knight: My sword is not made for killing those who will not raise their
    weapons.

Jarod: You've got to be kidding me!

Micaiah: Stop! Stop it, both of you! A man has died protecting you. Don't
    waste his sacrifice!

Jarod: This is not the end! [leaves]

Micaiah: No. It's not.

Black Knight: You would simply let him go?

Micaiah: He is not ours to judge. He belongs to the apostle now. I suppose he
    must bury his fallen friend and pray before facing her.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Micaiah: You have my thanks for saving me.

Black Knight: There is no need for thanks.

Sothe: Micaiah, are you safe?!

Sothe: You! Micaiah, run!

Micaiah: Sothe! It's OK. This knight just saved my life!

Sothe: What?! Micaiah, do you know who this is?

Micaiah: Everybody knows who he is, Sothe! He is the Black Knight. One of the
    Four Riders under King Ashnard, and the strongest swordsman--

Sothe: Exactly! The scum that General Ike defeated in Nados Castle in Crimea,
    three years ago. So how can he be here now...alive?

Black Knight: You are correct, Sothe. Ike did defeat me in that battle, in a
    fashion. But as you can see, I managed to escape.

Sothe: What do you want?

Black Knight: For Daein to raise its banner as a kingdom once again. I came
    here to protect those who are necessary for that dream.

Micai