Mission 1: Destiny's Child (Two figures are standing on a mountaintop. They are Bastion and Kamorge, and upon closer examination, it appears that they are dueling with wooden sticks, training for ATAC combat.) Bastion: Come ON, Father!! Admit that all this training is a complete waste of time! We both know that I'm more than strong enough to fight the Empire... So why won't you allow me to prove my strength in battle? I'm weary of skulking from place to place in the dead of night, as though we were petty thieves. We must stand up and fight, Father! We have to-- (Kamorge smacks him on the shoulder with his stick) Bastion: OWWW!! Whatever was that for?! Kamorge: To demonstrate that much training yet lies before you. Bastion: But you struck me when I wasn't ready, Father! That's hardly fair! Kamorge: On the field of battle, "fair" knows not who the deserving are, Bastion. It is a lesson you must learn. Bastion: I still say that you cheated... (All of a sudden, a short figure comes in from the southwest; Puck) Puck: Hey, you two! Didn't you see the smoke in the air? (A female then walks in from the same direction; Milea) Milea: Bastion! Kamorge! The village is under siege by soldiers of the Empire! I counted at least four Imperials before Puck and I came to find you. One building has already been set ablaze in the chaos... You must stop those thugs from doing any more harm! Bastion: Don't fret, Milea. Of course' we'll stop them! Are they ready, Puck? Puck: Ready and waiting, Bastion! Bastion: Excellent! Let's go! (Everyone but Kamorge leaves from the southwest) Kamorge: (Damn the Empire. Damn them for finding us again...) --------------- Briefing Screen --------------- Bastion: Father, I simply can't wait to slay these wretched dogs! Kamorge: Do not allow your anger to cloud good judgment. Forget your emotions. Remember your training. Fight with honor. Bastion: I know, Father, I know... But now is the time for me to use that training for just such an honorable purpose! Kamorge: Stay close as we engage the enemy, Bastion. Keep me within your line of sight at all times. This is your first big test. Do not disappoint me. Bastion: Of course not, Father! I shall make you proud! (Proud enough that perhaps you can reserve that stick for someone else...) --------------- Mission Begin! --------------- Bastion: *walks up a little* Stop terrorizing these innocent villagers, you filthy swine! (An Imperial walks south a little) Imperial Soldier 1: Warriors of the Junaris Empire stop for no one! Imperial Soldier 2: Sir, these appear to be the rogues we were sent to find. Imperial Soldier 1: Are you certain? I was expecting mercenaries, not peasants... You may injure them, but do NOT kill them, or Faulkner will have all our heads! (Battle begins. If Kamorge hits an Imperial Soldier from the back or side...) Imperial Soldier: You fight well for an old man... but I harbor no respect for my elders!" (Reyna and Ione show up after Bastion's second turn) Ione: It's just like the old saying, Reyna. Where there's smoke... Reyna: There's the Imperial Army!! Bastion: Look over there, Father! Two more Imperial ATACs! Kamorge: I would not be so quick as to assume they are affilated with the Empire... Reyna: Fear not, brave villagers! We shall save your humble homes from these heartless bastards! (A choice comes up here. If Bastion answers "Who are you?!) Bastion: Who in the world are you? And what are you doing here? Reyna: My name is Reyna, and I'm here to fight alongside you! I'll answer any other questions you have after I've slain these Imperial lackeys, alright? Bastion: You mean when my father and I have slain them... (But.... if Bastion answers "Do you fight for the Empire?") Bastion: How are we to know that you're not mercenaries hired by the Empire? Reyna: Mercenaries?! We fight for the glory of the Avalon Principality, my friend, not for filthy lucre! And do you really think the Empire would approve the color of my ATAC? Perhaps you'll believe us after we finish these annoyances for you! (When you win the battle...) Bastion: Victory is ours, Father! (Battle ends, story scene begins. Milea, Bastion and Kamorge are standing in front of the ruined house. Reyna and Ione walk in) Reyna: Those savages had no need to destroy this house... Ione: Hello! My name is Ione. I am a member of the Avalon Defense Corps. Reyna: And I am Reyna. It's a pleasure to meet such skilled fighters! Bastion: The Avalon Defense Corps? Aren't you allies of the Pharastia Kingdom? Reyna: Yes! Our combined forces have been battling the Empire for ages. Bastion: It is my pleasure to meet such beautiful soldiers as you two... Reyna: Pardon me? Ione: Reyna and I had been tracking these Imperials for several days... Reyna: And when we saw a pillar of black smoke on the horizon, we knew that they were the cause of it. Kamorge: We are most grateful to both of you for your timely assistance. Ione: You're quite welcome, sir. I relish any opportunity to kick the Junaris Empire where it hurts. Reyna: I still can't believe they would attack a village of innocents! Kamorge: I have a question... Do either of you know a man by the name of Galvas Derid? Ione: Galvas, the Corps Commander of the Pharastia Kingdom? Kamorge: Yes. Reyna: Of course we know him! We're here on his orders! He is considered a living legend by most members of the Corps. I have nothing but respect for him. Ione: I am curious... what leads you to inquire about Galvas? Kamorge: I must speak with him at the earliest possible opportunity of a debt which must be repaid. Ione: Galvas is quite wealthy, sir! How has he come to owe you anything? Kamorge: His debt is not monetary, Ione, and that is all you need to know. Ione: I would strongly disagree with you on that point. Kamorge: ... ... ... Ione: My apologies, sir. I did not seek to offend you. Kamorge: An old man like me is very rarely offended, Ione... but your apology is accepted nonetheless. Ione: Thank you, sir. How much time will you and your friends need to prepare before we depart? Reyna: Ione, we can't take this man to see Galvas! We don't even know him! Ione: We do not know him, Reyna... but we can certainly trust him. You only need to look into his eyes to realize that. Kamorge: Thank you for your trust, Ione. Now I owe a debt to you as well. Bastion: Father, have you forgotten about the fate of this village? What will happen when the Empire sends more soldiers here? Kamorge: *shakes his head* This village will be quite safe after we depart, Bastion. Bastion: And how can you be so confident of that, Father? Kamorge: Because you and I are the cause of this ruin, Bastion. Bastion: What...what do you mean, Father? I don't understand. Those soldiers said that they were looking for rogues! Kamorge: And they found us, Bastion. They found...me. Bastion: What are you saying? Why is the Empire searching-- Kamorge: Do you or do you not want to fight the Empire, Bastion? Bastion: Of course I do, Father, but-- Kamorge: Then cease your rambling and begin preparations for our journey. (Kamorge leaves) Bastion: Father! Wait! Why won't you at least explain what's going on?! Father... (The screen changes to a scene inside Faulkner's chambers. Falkner is sitting at his desk, and Sadira barges in through the doors) Faulkner: Your Highness, the Imperial Princess. I am, as always, honored simply to be in your holy presence, Sadira. *Sadira walks up closer* What business brings you to my chambers on this wondrous day? Sadira: Dispense with your pretentiousness, Faulkner! I demand answers! Faulkner: Certainly, Highness... but first you must supply a question. Sadira: Silence, Faulkner! The band of rogues you call soldiers are flagrantly violating the laws of the Empire! I'm told some have even deserted our armies and begun to rob the citizens they were sworn to protect! Faulkner: I will inform my sergeants of this terrible news at once, Sadira. Sadira: Your sergeants?! From what I have been told, they not only allow this behaviour, but often condone it! That's why I must travel to our border zones as soon as possible. I plan to observe the despicable actions of these troops myself... And to severely punish those among them who would harm my people. I only hope that you're able to guard the Imperial palace while I'm gone! *Sadira walks out, slams the door* Faulkner: I should burn this palace to the ground, you spoiled little wench... But it would be more prudent to follow you to the border zones... just in case... (The screen changes to the World Map. Bastion is in the Pharastia Kingdom area of the map) Ione: The last word we received was that Galvas was stationed in Araba Castle. It's located near the border between the Kingdom and the Empire. You'll be in danger. Kamorge: We can defend ourselves. Reyna: Are you really certain about all this, Ione? Because I'm not. Need I remind you once again that we know nothing about this man? Ione: I understand your concern, Reyna, but we know that we can trust him. And we also know that he can hold his own on a battlefield. Reyna: Most importantly, we know that his son is quite attractive. Ione: *smirk* What was that? Reyna: *nervous* Uh...nothing. Heh, heh. Ione: I should also admit that I am very curious about Kamorge. Reyna: As am I! What is this great debt Galvas owes him? And for how long have they known each other? Ione: Ah, well. That is gossip best kept for another time. The faster we make our way through the Empire... the sooner we will have the answers we want. Reyna: Well, yes, but it's so much FUN to gossip, Ione. (The party travels northeast for a bit, then stops) Ione: Oh, perfect! Dammit, that last battle has played havoc with the controls of my ATAC! I apologize, Kamorge, but I can't continue on until I can determine which systems are inoperative. Kamorge: Perhaps we can assist you in that regard, Ione. Bastion: Of course we can! Puck, have a look and see what you can do! Puck: You got it, Bastion! Reyna: Are you kidding me? This vertically challenged tyke is a mechanic?! The laws against child labor are quite strict, remember? Bastion: Puck is not a boy, Reyna! He's almost a man. Besides, he's the most amazing tech you'll meet. My ATAC would have fallen to pieces long ago without him! Reyna: Says you. Puck: Geez, Bastion, why don't you lay it on a little thicker?! Bastion: Aw, Puck, I've not embellished your raw talents one bit, and you know it! Ione: Well then, Puck. I would be honored if you chose to assist me. Puck: No problem! Let's go! (The screen changes to a small pathway, where our party minus puck are standing and talking, Ione and Kamorge a distance away from the other three) Ione: You are a man of very few words, aren't you, Kamorge? Kamorge: Indeed. Reyna: So, tell me, Bastion... it seems that you move around quite a bit. Doesn't that get hard? Bastion: Yes, it is difficult. I doubt there's a place on the Continent where we haven't lived at some point. Reyna: Well then, how did Milea come to be in your company? Milea: *holds head down* Both of my parents were slain by soldiers of the Empire when I was very young. Kamorge had been a good friend of my family, and took me in as one of his own. Reyna: *looks sad* Oh, Milea. I'm so sorry... I really didn't mean to cause you any pain. Milea: Don't be silly, Reyna, and please don't apologize. After all, how could you have known? *cheers up* Besides, I couldn't have had a better life than the one Kamorge has given to me. (Puck enters, looking happy) Puck: Geez, that was TOO easy! All I had to do was patch up the bipolar circuits and tweak the cortex modulator! Bastion: Sounds like our little genius has finished his repair work. Ione: Thank you very much, Puck! I'll go and run a few diagnostic programs before we depart. *Kamorge and Ione step out, Puck joins the group* Reyna: Boy, he IS good! The very best engineers in the Avalon Corps don't even work that fast! Bastion: I said as much earlier, remember? Reyna: Yes, yes...oh, I forgot to ask how Puck ended up with you as well. Bastion: Puck was apprenticing with one of Father's friends, who is an engineer. He's traveling with us to test what he's learned thus far in real-life situations. And I assure you there aren't many "situations" we haven't been in lately! Puck: It's okay, Bastion! I really don't mind fixing your ATAC all the time! Reyna: I'm starting to get the picture. Bastion: It's a perfect arrangement. Father and I battle against the Empire... Puck repairs our ATACs and allows me to pull wedgies on him when the mood strikes... And Milea cooks and cleans up after us. Like I said, it's perfect! Milea: *looking angry* No, no. It would be perfect if you managed to belch out a "thank you" now and then to show some appreciation! Bastion: I appreciate what you do, Milea. You KNOW that! Milea: Well... *calmer* it wouldn't hurt to tell me every now and again. Reyna: Sounds reasonable to me. (Ione and Kamorge enter again) Ione: Attention, everyone! Kamorge and I have seen a battle forming in the distance! There isn't any time to waste! We must mobilize at once! Bastion: Excellent. We can strike against the Empire on their own wretched turf! Reyna: We must keep our wits about us as we descend into the conflict. Ione: Yes. Caution is the best course of action. It may already be too late for the Empire's poor prey. If we are careless, we shall become victims as well. Heads up! Let's go! *Bastion and Co. leave the screen, Mission ends: go to Mission 2 next* Mission 2: Bandit Brigade --------------- Interview Screen --------------- Kamorge: To learn the Strong Slash, you must strengthen your BAS, POW and DEX. It will come to you in time. Ione: I think my friend Reyna has a bit of a crush on you, Bastion. How do you feel about her? Reyna: Life is a wonderful gift, Bastion, so don't waste a single moment of it on stress or worry! --------------- Briefing Screen --------------- Ione: It appears we're too late... Bastion: No! I detect two ATACs in the center of the canyon! If we hurry, we can save them! Reyna: But they're surrounded by a mob of Imperials... what do you think, Ione? Ione: Well, inside such a narrow space, we can easily cover each other's backs... But if that mob surrounds us as well, our only escape route will be cut off. Stay close and move quickly, or we'll watch those people die by the Empire's hand. Reyna: That's not going to happen, Ione. Time for you to watch and learn from the best of the Avalon Corps, Bastion. Bastion: Hey! I'm not a student, Reyna. I'm a teacher! --------------- Mission Begin! --------------- (2 Ratatosk ATAC, controlled by Devlin and Barlow, are surrounded and are apparently being ganged up on by various other ATAC, driven by bandits. Bastion and Co. hide behind a canyon wall in their ATAC) Bandit: Awright, boys, I'm gettin' bored. It's time to bash these fools into scrap metal! And watch how hard you hit 'em! Nobody's gonna buy any ATAC parts from us if they don't work! Devlin: I don't care if you kill me, but have mercy! Allow my friend to leave! He doesn't deserve this fate! Kamorge: The enemy is too numerous, Bastion. You must leave here until the battle is over. Bastion: What are you saying, Father?! I'm going to stand and fight with you, not run away! If we don't help these people, they'll die before our eyes... and I couldn't live with myself if that happened! This is my first time, Father. Don't deny me this opportunity. I'm ready. Kamorge: You honor me with your bravery. Remember your training. Focus on... Bastion: I know, Father, I know! Kamorge: (I have no reason to worry about the boy. He has already shown great skill. But I cannot help it...) (Bandit 7 overhears Bastion) Bandit 7: Hey, boss! We've got company! Bandit 1: Ha, ha, ha! Whooo! We're in luck today, boys! Four more lambs led to the slaughter! (The battle begins. Kamorge runs up and strikes a bandit) Devlin: Those strangers...are helping us! I... I can barely believe my eyes! Are you too weak from hunger to think clearly, Barlow?! Move closer to those friendly ATACs! Barlow: How many times do I have to tell you, Devlin?! I'm not fat--I have a glandular disorder! *the two move closer* (Later in the battle, Sadira, Franco and Halak appear in the northern heights of the cliff, in their ATAC) Sadira: So, the rumors were true... these soldiers are out of control!! *angry face* They are attacking innocent travelers with Imperial ATACs, disgracing the very Empire they pledged to serve! Franco! Halak! We have some discipline to mete out! Bastion: Father! Three more Imperial ATACs just appeared on the canyon ridge! We're in serious trouble... (After Sadira strikes a bandit..) Bastion: I thought those three were Imperials, but they're fighting on our side! (After all bandits are destroyed, battle ends, story scene begins. Reyna, Kamorge, Ione, Bastion and Devlin and Barlow are standing in front of the ruined caravan) Bastion: We searched everywhere, but... Kamorge: There were no other survivors of the attack. Nor did I expect there to be. Reyna: Never in any of my battles have I seen such senseless carnage. Ione: Nor have I. Those sadistic freaks took pleasure in killing these people. Devlin: We did not detect them until it was too late. My friends begged for mercy. I--I hear their screams... Barlow: I think I'm gonna be sick. (Sadira, Franco and Halak walk in) Sadira: This is truly a dark day in the history of the Junaris Empire. Bastion: And who are you to show such concern for the Empire? Sadira: Are you not an Imperial citizen? Surely you recognize the face of your Princess. Bastion: (The Imperial Princess...!) Sadira: We have received many reports of soldiers using the power of the Empire for criminal acts. I journeyed here to investigate the rumors...and I have now confirmed them beyond any doubt. Bastion: How can you be so clinical after witnessing this...this.. travesty?! Imperial soldiers cut down innocent travelers and took glee in their deaths! You shouldn't be ashamed at what has taken place here, Princess--you should be horrified! Is THIS what your precious Empire stands for? The slaughter of the innocent and the desecration of the dead?! Why do you not speak, Princess? Have my words chipped at the royal heart of ice? Answer me!! Sadira: I...I... Kamorge: Lower your voice, Bastion. We all recognize the tragedy which has unfolded here. (turns to face Sadira) We thank you and your escorts for aiding us in the battle, Princess. Bastion: (I can't believe that Father is being so courteous to the child of the Emperor himself! She represents everything I've always been taught to detest!) Franco: (steps forward) Indeed. We are in your debt, good sir. Without your considerable strength, I doubt we could have prevented the rogues from prevailing here. In my humble opinion, there is no need for us to quarrel when our intentions were the same. Bastion: Really? I always thought the Empire's intent was to plunder from anyone and everyone. You're probably upset that these people won't be around to pay any more travel tolls! Sadira: I have had entirely enough of your misguided anger, boy! I have come here to stop these bandits from committing these horrible acts. Franco: Sadira speaks the truth. It is the will of the Princess to halt the anarchy... and the bloodletting. Why do you believe otherwise? Bastion: Why?! Look at the senseless death before you, sir, and perhaps you will begin to understand! Devlin: Hey, you! Self-righteous boy with the big mouth! *Bastion turns to face Devlin* You seem to think that it's only the Empire which visits evil acts upon the innocent. I assure you the Pharastia Kingdom has abused its power just as much, if not more. Bastion: Impossible! Devlin: Wrong. Very possible, and very real. Have you ever seen the terror these armies cause? Butchers are butchers, regardless of the crest under which they shed innocent blood. Bastion: I admit that I have not seen the terror you have, sir. But I have never seen the Kingdom's armies cause an atrocity like this! Devlin: Whereas I have seen them cause similar acts more times than I could count. The insanity of war drives the most honorable of men to commit the most unthinkable acts. The Kingdom and the Empire wage their endless battles, and the people of the Continent endlessly suffer! Bastion: *saddened* Yes... Sadira: I want the suffering to end, sir. That's why I'm here. I'm going to stop the war. I'm going to restore peace to our land and our people. I shall not forget this day. And I shall not fail! Franco, it is time to depart. Franco: Yes, Highness. *Franco, Halak and Sadira turn to leave* Sadira: (I pray we shall not encounter another such scene in our travels...) (Sadira and Halak leave the screen) Franco: Had we met under a different set of circumstances, good sir, I believe we could have been friends. But you have my respect regardless of your feelings about the Empire. Kamorge: My respect follows you in kind, Franco. Franco: You know my name, sir, but I know not yours. Kamorge: I am Kamorge. Franco: Kamorge...and Bastion, I believe you said earlier. Take care in your journeys. *leaves the screen* Kamorge: *faces Bastion* We should also make haste. Sharks come quickly at the scent of blood. Bastion: Father... Kamorge: I suppose your long face means you believe we should invite these two travelers to join our party. Devlin: You already saved both our lives, and now you would help us again? Your kindness knows no bounds. Barlow: Yeah, thanks a lot! I really don't wanna get beaten up again! Devlin: I'm Devlin, and this is my "special" friend, Barlow! It's nice to meet you! Barlow: Um, would you guys have any food? I have a glandular disorder. Makes me wanna eat a lot. Strange Voice: Well, hello, everybody! *A man warps in from the opposite side of the caravan, steps forward* You weren't thinking of leaving without me, were you? 'Course not! (Everyone turns to face the mysterious person, who is Andrew) Reyna: And who are you?! Devlin: You're alive! Ha! I knew those damn bandits could never have slain the infamous Andrew! (Scene fades to an ATAC hangar in the Imperial Palace. Faulkner is looking over the Solarus, when Duyere steps in) Faulkner: Your Highness, you appear to be troubled. What news has caused your noble brow to furrow? Duyere: *angry* Why was I not informed of your plans to travel into the war zone, Faulkner?! You know how strong my desire to join you on the field of battle runs within me! It is entirely unacceptable that Sadira should be allowed to engage the enemy when I am not! Faulkner: Please forgive me, Highness, but we have discussed this many times in the past. You are the immediate heir to the Empire, Duyere. Your safety is my utmost concern. I cannot allow our future King to act frivolously where his life is at risk...you understand that. Duyere: Yes, Faulkner...I am acutely aware of the many burdens placed upon me since my birth. But the fact remains that the desire to fight for the Empire I shall one day inherit cannot be denied! And, to fight at the side of a legend such as yourself would be at once an honor and a privilege. Faulkner: You flatter me with your gracious words, Prince Duyere. Duyere: My gracious nature shall turn foul if you continue to deny me the one thing I most crave. Faulkner: But the repairs on your Sarbelas ATAC are incomplete, Duyere. You could not fight at full strength. Duyere: Then I shall merely fight with more caution, Faulkner. Have you another excuse to proffer? Faulkner: Alright, Prince. You may accompany me...but you must promise to obey my orders at all times. Duyere: Of course, Faulkner. I ask only to be treated the same as any soldier under your command. Faulkner: But you are no mere soldier, Duyere, and I cannot pretend otherwise. Duyere: Then at least pretend to pretend, Faulkner!! I demand it! Faulkner: As you wish, Majesty. Duyere: That's better. *walks toward the Sarbelas in the Hangar* Prepare my ATAC at once! (The screen changes to the World Map. Bastion is in the Pharastia Kingdom area of the map) Andrew: I'm ready to go. Let's kick some Imperial butt and make tracks for the nearest brothel! Reyna: Tell me, Devlin, has this man's, um...ego...always been so dangerously inflated? Some people were bred to notice the boorish nature of such a braggart. Devlin: All I know for certain is that he's an excellent fighter, and he's more than able to hold his liquor. I have never been particularly inclined to ask how he developed either skill... Andrew: Hey, man, don't you know you're not supposed to talk about me like that until you're behind my back?! Bastion: Father, I refuse to believe that the Kingdom is as Devlin said. Because if his words are true... Then there's no reason to fight the Empire, because the citizens of the Continent have already lost. Kamorge: Bastion, when we reach Galvas, you will understand why this war must be fought. You will learn... Wait! I detect two groups of ATACs, both in front of and behind us! Bastion: We've been surrounded?! Ione: More Imperial troops, from the looks of them! Bastion: See?! I knew that Princess didn't mean a word she said! Her soldiers are still wreaking havoc! Kamorge: These are no rogue soldiers, Bastion. These are the Empire's elite fighters. (And I dare not tell you who leads them into battle...) *Mission ends, head to Mission 3* Mission 3: Tragic Farewell --------------- Interview Screen --------------- Kamorge: Bastion, to learn the Tackle, you need to improve your BAS and POW. It is a very valuable attack. Ione: Your father is a great man, Bastion. You are fortunate to have the benefit of his knowledge and experience. Reyna: This might sound strange, Bastion, but you remind me of my brothers back at home...young and naive! Devlin: You look fairly strong, Bastion! One of these days, we'll arm-wrestle and see which of us is stronger! Barlow: Have you ever tasted the Kingdom's dried sea slugs, Bastion? They're the best on the Continent! Deee-LISH! --------------- Briefing Screen --------------- Kamorge: We are greatly outnumbered, and under attack from both the front and the rear. Ione: I admire your perfect calm in the midst of such an overwhelmingly poor circumstance. Kamorge: I shall engage the rear troops, Ione. You and the others must fend off the frontal assault. Ione: Agreed. Bastion: I'll fight with you, Father! Kamorge: No, Bastion. You must fight with Ione. Bastion: Father, you can't defeat an entire battalion of Imperial troops by yourself! It's... Kamorge: There is only room for a single soldier on the bridge, Bastion. I can and must hold them at bay. Bastion: ...Of course, Father. I didn't mean to doubt you! Ione: There's no need to apologize, Bastion. I'm sure your father understands your concern. Kamorge: Indeed. Ione: Fight with honor, Kamorge! Kamorge: You as well, Ione. (Faulkner himself has come to claim Bastion. Perhaps I should have known that he would. But that doesn't matter now. All that matters is preventing Bastion from falling into Imperial hands. I must prevail...) --------------- Mission Begin! --------------- (Duyere and his men reside on the southern side of the battlefield, with our team guarding the bridge) Duyere: It has been far too long since I last engaged in battle. I have longed to feel this excitement again... And I shall delight in slaying these ignorant fools who dare to defy the will of the Empire! Imperial Bodyguard: Your Highness, General Faulkner said these ATACs were to be captured, not destroyed. Duyere: Yes, and when they resist capture, these rebels will have to be killed. I cannot wait! Now still your insolent tongue and escort me into battle! (Dialogue appears if Duyere attacks either Bastion, Reyna, Ione or Devlin, but only once per battle. Duyere attacks and says...) Duyere: Death to anyone who stands in the Empire's path! (There are 4 different messages that can be played here, depending on who is attacked by Duyere. - Bastion: It's your pathetic Empire which is destined to perish! - Reyna: We will never let you fulfill your evil ambitions! - Ione: (This must be a Sarbelas ATAC. Very quick and powerful, from what I've heard. I must be cautious.) - Devlin: It's because of sadistic scum like you that these wars will never end! (If Duyere takes 4 turns in which he does something aside from resting to recover FP, the following message plays) Duyere: Why do you bother to fight? Whether now or later, your ignominious fate is to die at my hand... What? What's going on? I...I can't move! Something's wrong with this ATAC! I've never been so thoroughly humiliated in all my life! Imperial Bodyguard: Your Highness, why have you stopped moving? The enemy is attacking! Duyere: I know that, you fool! It's my ATAC... the repairs weren't completed before I left the castle! Imperial Bodyguard: That was stup...very ill-advised, Your Highness! We must retreat to insure your safety! Duyere: But I don't want to leave until I've beaten them all! I'm enjoying this! Imperial Bodyguard: Please, Your Highness! You are the future of the Empire! Your death would be our end! Duyere: Death? Uh...yes, well, while I would much prefer to continue, I shall heed your advice for the moment. *leaves battlefield with Bodyguard* Faulkner: (Prince Duyere has retreated?! And after puling like a spoiled brat to come here with me? That fool is entirely unworthy to inherit the Empire. He'll never possess the necessary maturity!) (After Kamorge destroys 1 Imperial) Faulkner: Impressive...very impressive. Neither his fighting skills nor his immense strength have dwindled with age. Which of you will lose to...rather, which of you chooses to fight the old man next? Imperial Soldier: I gladly volunteer to dispatch this rebel for you, sir! *moves to attack Kamorge) (After Kamorge destroys the next Imperial) Faulkner: I've grown tired of feeding you these amateurs, old man. It's time for you to embrace your eternal judgment. (After Faulkner strikes Kamorge) Faulkner: You receive my sincere admiration, old man! A lesser warrior would have fled at my mere approach! Before I kill you, perhaps you could confess as to which of your precious companions is the royal one? The boy for whom you will so gladly sacrifice your own miserable life? Kamorge: You will never find him, Faulkner! But he will find you, and he will annihilate your accursed Empire! Faulkner: Defiant to the end. I would expect no less from you. Now let us finish this with haste. The sooner you die, the sooner the eternal reign will begin! (After Faulkner defeats Kamorge) Faulkner: (A foolish attack, easily countered. I expected more from you, Alugard. So much more... Hmmm? What's this? My leg servos are losing pressure...and my torso actuators have been damaged. Even in death, you surprise me.) This battle has grown tiresome. Capture the remaining rebels, and do it quickly. Imperial Soldier: Yes, sir! *they both leave the battle* (If Duyere is still around, he says the following) Duyere: What?! Faulkner is retreating?! I can't finish off these rebels without him! Bastion: Father?! FATHER!! (Battle ends when all enemies are destroyed.) Bastion: The battle is won... (If Bastion is Level 8 or higher, a choice comes up. If Bastion answers "We must attend to Kamorge!) Bastion: Oh, Father, please be alright... (Scene changes to a small field. Kamorge is badly wounded, Bastion is holding him while Reyna is kneeled down nearby. They are attempting to heal him. Puck, Ione and Milea watch from a little farther back) Kamorge: Bastion...listen carefully...to what I... have to say... For my time... in this... world... is slipping away... Bastion: Father! Save your strength! I won't let you perish! Just lie still and allow us to treat your wounds... Kamorge: I cannot...protect you...any longer... Bastion. You must... complete your... journey... without me. Draw upon the strength of...Puck... Milea...and the new...allies that...share your love of...justice. Ione...Reyna...I beg you to help... Bastion...and to watch over...Puck...and Milea. Ione: Stop this, Kamorge! Stop speaking as if your death is assured! Kamorge: Alas...it is. The wounds...which I... have suffered...are mortal. Reyna: Please press down harder on that bandage, Bastion! You must stop the bleeding! Kamorge: Tell Galvas...that the supreme...spirit sleeps...at the feet...of the lion. Tell him to...guide the holy lineage... to the light. Bastion: You're delirious, Father! The words you speak make no sense! Kamorge: Bastion...I speak wisdom. And one day...you shall...understand. I have one final...secret. Before you complete...your journey...you need to know...how it began. (scene changes to the side of a castle. Two ATAC are running away from something. The pilots are the King and Alugard.) Alugard: Please hurry, Your Majesty! The Imperial forces are closing fast! King: I appreciate your concern, Alugard, but I am not unaware of the forces that swarm toward us. Savaro: *enters from the north in a Solarus ATAC* Wait!! King: Savaro?! You are the one who led the Imperial forces here? You are the one who betrayed my trust? Why?! Savaro: Because I learned the truth. I learned that my village was destroyed by the Kingdom, not the Empire! It is my wife's blood that stains your hands, and it is your blue blood that shall adorn my sword! King: Emperor Degalle has told you lies, Savaro! He is using your grief to manipulate you! Savaro: Enough! I don't care which of you is the liar, because both of you partake of the bitter cup of my revenge. King: *advances towards Savaro* Savaro! I grieve for your loss... but this is madness! No amount of bloodshed will bring her back! Alugard: Your Majesty, this is not the time to engage in debate! I will battle Savaro while you flee the capital! King: ...No, Alugard. I shall stay here to give Savaro the opportunity for his revenge. Alugard: What?! Now it is you who speaks madness, Majesty! I am sworn to lay down my life for yours! King: And as your Commander, I hereby absolve you of your duty! Now go! The Imperials are moments away! Alugard: I shall never forget your honor and bravery, Majesty! Never! *flees* Savaro: I sentence you to death for your crimes against humanity. Your execution shall be swift! King: Nay. It is your who shall perish this black day, Savaro. Your death shall be as senseless as your wife's. I only wish that I could make you see the truth... *both attack, and are both killed. Suddenly, 8 ATAC approach, two of which containing Emperor Degalle and a much younger Faulkner* Faulkner: Father! What happened to you?! Degalle: (What a provocative development! Faulkner's father, slain by the King himself!) Faulkner: Why are you fools standing there?! Pursue Alugard and capture him! *the Imperials head south in pursuit* Father...oh, Father...! Degalle: Faulkner, I am sorry for your loss. Savaro was a great man. You must bear his legacy with honor. And you must help me to restore the Empire to its former glory. Then...we shall exact our revenge. Faulkner: I will do anything and everything I possibly can to assist you, Emperor Degalle. I will devote my life to the destruction of the Kingdom. Degalle: Your devotion shall be richly rewarded in time, Faulkner. I promise you. Faulkner: Thank you, Your Majesty! *Degalle leaves* (Father, I will drown the soldiers of the Kingdom in an ocean of their own blood! I swear it on your soul...) (scene fades back to present time) Kamorge: And as the King...bravely fought...his final battle...I spirited his...only son...away from...the castle. Bastion: You fought for the Kingdom, Father? You were a bodyguard of the King?! How can this be?! Kamorge: The days have...passed so quickly, Bastion. I always thought...of you...as a boy...but you are now a man. You might not...have been my son...by blood...but you have become...my son...in my heart. Bastion: What are you saying?! Kamorge: Bastion, you must walk the road onto which your conscience...guides you. I ask you to live with honor...and to...walk...with...the light... *just then, Kamorge breathes his final breath* Bastion: Father? Father, wake up! What do you mean, I'm not your son? Answer me, Father! FATHER!! No...oh, no... (scene fades to the overworld map) Reyna: I wish there was something we could say to ease Bastion's pain...but all we can do is watch him mourn. Ione: There IS something we can do, Reyna. We can take him to Galvas, and help him to discover the truth. It was Kamorge's dying wish that we do so, and I would never refuse the request of such an honorable man. Reyna: Bastion needs you, Milea. Go to his side, and comfort him in his grief. Milea: Yes...of course. Reyna: We can't leave Kamorge's ATAC here to be cut into scrap by bandits. Puck? Can you control the Barazaph? Puck: Yeah, I can drive, but I don't know how to fight in it. Reyna: That's fine. I wouldn't expect you to have any combat training. Devlin, what about you and Barlow? Are you going to travel onward with us, or make your own path? Devlin: We're coming with you. Not just because it's safer, but because we want to know what's going on! Reyna: Alright, then. Program a course for Araba Castle, due east of here... (our team moves east toward the castle..) Andrew: Whoa! Excuse men, gorgeous, but am I the only one who's notice that we're headed straight for Araba Castle? Reyna: Well, aren't YOU the observant one. Why do you ask? Andrew: Oh, just because it was stormed by Imperial forces a short while ago. I'm sure they'll be thrilled to see us... I mean, you can never have too many prisoners of war, right? Reyna: What are you talking about?! Araba Castle would never fall into the hands of the Empire! Andrew: Never say never, my bodacious friend. Not only have they claimed the Castle, they also captured some general... Ione: Galvas? Andrew: Yeah, that's him. He must be a pretty important guy, 'cause Duke Zeira is headed for Araba to rescue him. Reyna: Duke Zeira, the ruler of Avalon?! Why didn't you tell us about all of this sooner, you twit?! Andrew: I would've, but I kept getting lost in a daydream about you, me, and a hot tub full of chocolate pudding. Reyna: Spare me your sick little fantasies and explain how you came to know what happened at Araba Castle! Andrew: Hey, don't knock the pudding thing 'til you've tried it...and as for how I know about Araba, it's obvious. Reyna: All that's obvious to me is that no one has loved you as much as you love yourself. Now explain! Andrew: I knew about Araba because...drum roll, please...I'm the coolest! Reyna: What are we going to do now, Ione? Andrew: Hey, aren't you gonna show a little appreciation for the info I just gave you?! Preferably with your lips? Ione: Well, we obviously can't continue on to Araba...if Andrew is telling us the truth, of course. But I'd rather not take any chances. I suggest we meet with Duke Zeira and determine what's happening. Reyna: As usual, I completely agree. Back to the west we go... (our team heads west to Araba) Andrew: Well, ladies, I'm afraid you're going to have to live without me for just a little while. Reyna: Could you make that forever? Andrew: I like your sense of humor, my juicy little peach, but you're prettier when you don't speak. Anyway, there's a town near here with a few female friends of mine... and we get along VERY well. Reyna: How wonderful for you. Really. Let's keep moving, everyone! Zeira's castle isn't far now! Andrew: Why must you play so hard to get?! I know that you want to ravage me like a rabid weasel! Ah well. I'll be back soon, darling. Perhaps you'll have some sugar for me when I return. Devlin: He always disappears like that, sometimes for days. I don't know why, and I don't WANT to know. Reyna: All I know for sure is that I wouldn't especially mind if he were to wander off the nearest cliff... (scene cuts to inside Zeira's castle. Bastion is looking out the window alone, Puck and Milea standing nearby) Milea: (Oh, Bastion. I cannot bear to see you in such pain!) (Zeira and Reyna enter) Zeira: Reyna, that is truly one of the most tragic tales I've ever heard... And another good reason why we must hurry to Galvas' defense. By the way... *faces Bastion* I am Duke Zeira, leader of the Avalon Principality. Bastion, it is an honor to meet you. Reyna: Bastion, please show some respect! The Duke is talking to you! Zeira: It's quite understandable, Reyna. I've taken no offense. He's been through quite an ordeal. I know the pain you feel inside draws you away right now, Bastion, but just listen to what I have to say. Galvas Derid is being held against his will in Araba Castle. I intend to free him. I want...no, I need your help. Just one ATAC could be the difference between victory and defeat. Reyna has informed me that Kamorge hinted of Galvas knowing a secret that would be of value to you. I feel that Galvas may hold the answers to many of your questions that yet remain. In fact, my intelligence officers have returned with a piece of information that may stir your interest. The Imperials guarding the Araba Castle are the ones your father fought at Maqui Bridge. Bastion: *turns around* They are? Zeira: The time before departure dwindles even now, Bastion. I'd be honored if you'd join me at Araba Castle. Reyna has spoken of your skill. It seems you would be a great asset to the cause. Bastion: Sir, I shall accompany you. I attach but one condition. Promise that you will not interfere when I slay the pig who murdered my father! Zeira: Upon my honor, Bastion. (You then go to Mission 4. However, if Bastion answers "I shall find that murderer!) Bastion: I will have revenge for you, Father! That Imperial bastard won't escape my wrath! (Scene changes to the overworld map) Bastion: Where is he?! Nothing's showing up on my scanners... Wait! There! Directly north! I won't let him escape!! *moves north* (You then go to Mission 25)