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Difference between revisions of "Storybook"

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{{MissingInfo|Missing the following Storybooks: ''Great Adventurer Karakas'': Chapter 1, and ''Broad and Shallow Knowledge for Refined Aradians'': Chapters 1. Feel free to add them below.}}
 
 
{{BackToTop}}
 
{{BackToTop}}
 
[[Category:Quests]]
 
[[Category:Quests]]
 +
[[Category:Lore]]
 
'''Storybooks''' are Use items that are acquired from dungeons that explain lore not shown in [[Epic Quests]]. Each Storybook contains 1 to 5 chapters. Upon using the item, the player receives a side quest, and at the end receives reward gold and experience at chapter completion. After completion, players can re-read the Storybook again on all account characters through the Storybook tab in the Use Item Inventory.
 
'''Storybooks''' are Use items that are acquired from dungeons that explain lore not shown in [[Epic Quests]]. Each Storybook contains 1 to 5 chapters. Upon using the item, the player receives a side quest, and at the end receives reward gold and experience at chapter completion. After completion, players can re-read the Storybook again on all account characters through the Storybook tab in the Use Item Inventory.
  
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'''Gawen:''' We can do many things, but why do we have to sacrifice ourselves and suffer so much for others?
 
'''Gawen:''' We can do many things, but why do we have to sacrifice ourselves and suffer so much for others?
  
−
'''White Guardian Adrina:''' ...For all this time we've lived in Arad, others have done nothing but hurt us. They kidnapped our young and turned them into their pets. I can't count how many of us were killed for our horns because they make a good test material
+
'''Dragon Guardian Adrina:''' ...For all this time we've lived in Arad, others have done nothing but hurt us. They kidnapped our young and turned them into their pets. I can't count how many of us were killed for our horns because they make a good test material
  
 
'''Adrina:''' Everyone blames only the Empire, but think carefully, It's not the only force that has oppressed us. There are numerous collaborators. The outside world is full of them
 
'''Adrina:''' Everyone blames only the Empire, but think carefully, It's not the only force that has oppressed us. There are numerous collaborators. The outside world is full of them
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'''Abello:''' "...Why did Father ever introduce me to Kargon?"
 
'''Abello:''' "...Why did Father ever introduce me to Kargon?"
 +
 +
<hr>
 +
<u>'''Condition Message'''</u> — ''Go to Seria and watch Kargon propose to her.''
  
 
'''Kargon:''' "Oh! Ah! You there, beautiful girl!"
 
'''Kargon:''' "Oh! Ah! You there, beautiful girl!"
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'''Abello:''' "Silk spider skin is colorful and shiny. ...Are you really going to use the skin?!"
 
'''Abello:''' "Silk spider skin is colorful and shiny. ...Are you really going to use the skin?!"
 +
 +
<hr>
 +
<u>'''Condition Message'''</u> — ''Watch Kargon give Seria his gift.''
  
 
'''Seria:''' "Oh. Hello."
 
'''Seria:''' "Oh. Hello."
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|Show=none
 
|Show=none
 
}}
 
}}
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'''Book:''' ''In a peaceful time before the Great Metastasis befell, a small boy named Karakas was born in a small quiet village. He was so tine that he fit his mother's skirt pocket.''
+
'''Book:''' ''In a peaceful time before the Great Metastasis befell, a small boy named Karakas was born in a small quiet village. He was so tiny that he fit his mother's skirt pocket.''
  
 
''One day, Mother went out to care for her vegetable patch, with Karakas in her skirt pocket, and found her patch was infested by more moles than usual. Mother, Brothers, and Sisters were so busy hunting the moles that they didn't know Karakas fell out of the skirt pocket into a hole in the ground.''
 
''One day, Mother went out to care for her vegetable patch, with Karakas in her skirt pocket, and found her patch was infested by more moles than usual. Mother, Brothers, and Sisters were so busy hunting the moles that they didn't know Karakas fell out of the skirt pocket into a hole in the ground.''
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'''Great Metastasis'''
 
'''Great Metastasis'''
  
−
Myre's Great Pentacles were destroyed by the Great Fire that burned Grand Flores to the ground and then restored by the sacrifice of the Elves, but they were never recovered from the initial damage. They continued to grow weak and eventually allowed an interdimensional rutpure, which led to the great explosion of the Metastasis.
+
Myre's Great Pentacles were destroyed by the Great Fire that burned Grand Flores to the ground and then restored by the sacrifice of the Elves, but they were never recovered from the initial damage. They continued to grow weak and eventually allowed an interdimensional rupture, which led to the great explosion of the Metastasis.
  
 
The explosion sent the Metastasis energy spreading across Arad, causing mutation in monsters and Humans alike, turning places upside-down with its anti-gravitational impact.  
 
The explosion sent the Metastasis energy spreading across Arad, causing mutation in monsters and Humans alike, turning places upside-down with its anti-gravitational impact.  
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An empire which has risen from the remains of the Pelos Empire. It's a centralized state governed by an emperor, and its capital city is Vitalon, the City of Gold, in the 1st Province.
 
An empire which has risen from the remains of the Pelos Empire. It's a centralized state governed by an emperor, and its capital city is Vitalon, the City of Gold, in the 1st Province.
  
−
Centered around Palo Bay, the De Los Empire is divided into south and north, which are commonly referred to as the 1st Province and the 2nd Province, repsectively. The two provinces differ in their political philosophies in that the 1st Province, where the central military base is located, is focused on political stability and defense, while the 2nd Province supports liberal democracy.
+
Centered around Palo Bay, the De Los Empire is divided into south and north, which are commonly referred to as the 1st Province and the 2nd Province, respectively. The two provinces differ in their political philosophies in that the 1st Province, where the central military base is located, is focused on political stability and defense, while the 2nd Province supports liberal democracy.
  
 
However, the two share a long-standing bond and are currently working towards unification.
 
However, the two share a long-standing bond and are currently working towards unification.
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'''Michael of the Holy Eye'''
 
'''Michael of the Holy Eye'''
  
−
The first saint who receieved a revelation from hsi god, and one of the Five Holy Men who led the Priests to victory in the Black Crusade. He created the Divine Combat Techniques, the art of combat unique to the Priests.
+
The first saint who received a revelation from his god, and one of the Five Holy Men who led the Priests to victory in the Black Crusade. He created the Divine Combat Techniques, the art of combat unique to the Priests.
  
 
He was blessed by his god to remain young, and his blue eyes are believed to see through disguises.
 
He was blessed by his god to remain young, and his blue eyes are believed to see through disguises.
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|Show=none
 
|Show=none
 
}}
 
}}
 +
'''Linus:''' "Hey who's this? Long time no see!"
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "Linus. You're still in this village."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "And you're still adventuring. How are you?"
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "Fine. Thank you."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "Let's go have a drink. You're not busy, are you?"
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "Not at all. ...How do you like a blacksmith?"
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "It's not as exciting as being an adventurer, but I like hammering and turning metal into usable things. It's quite rewarding. If you're interested, why don't you try yourself? Who knows; you might uncover your life's true calling, like I did."
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "That sounds interesting, but I'll have to say no for now."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "I've always wanted to ask you this. What are you hanging on to?"
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "What do you mean?"
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "To me, you look like you're wandering without a purpose."
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "Well I didn't think an adventurer needs a purpose."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "I'm saying, you look like you need a purpose. In a way, I think you're wandering to find a purpose."
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "To find a purpose... Maybe. For some time I've been trying to stop the Metastasis, but frankly I don't know why I'm doing it. I've been telling others that I'm trying to stop another Screaming Cavern incident from threatening Arad, but sometimes I wonder if the world's peace is really important to me."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "Maybe you're just feeling burned out."
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "Maybe. Or maybe this is just me. I don't think I've ever had passion for anything."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "Passion! Just hearing the word excites me. Travelling Arad once was my passion. *Sigh...* The Metastasis has killed countless people. I don't thin it's stupid that you're trying to stop it. Actually I admire you. If you don't do it, someone else has to. Because of people like you, I could choose the hammer over the sword."
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "Stop. You're not drunk already, are you? If you're not going to stop, I'm leaving."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "Geez, man. Do you think it's easy for me to say such embarrassing things? Many things have happened around here lately, and they just got me thinking. I was just trying to be honest with you."
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "Man, you're gotten old and soft."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "So have you. Time doesn't discriminate."
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "Right. A lot of time has passed since we first met. Who's that [[Toby|goblin]] hovering around over there? Do you know him?"
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "Huh? Man, he came back. I told him not to come back because goblins and humans don't mix."
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "The world has changed, more so than you and I think. Like that young goblin, some of the things that used to be serious in our time no longer matter."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "You're right. Even I've noticed that the world is changing, and this place is far away from civilization. I can't imagine how rapidly things must be changing in big cities. Say, how'd you like to make an acquaintance with a goblin, in celebration of the coming of a new era?"
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "I have to go. I'm happy to be friends with someone who's friends with a goblin."
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "Hmph, don't treat me as if I'm a child excited to introduce one friend to another. And don't thin you won either."
 +
 +
'''Toby:''' "Linus, want to play Rock-paper-scissors with me?"
 +
 +
'''Aganzo:''' "*Chuckle*"
 +
 +
'''Linus:''' "...You're not helping, kiddo."
 +
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 +
<hr>
 +
{{HiddenTextStart|
 +
|Title=Old Friend (Season 3)
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|Width=600
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|Show=none
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}}
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{{RemovedContent}}
 
'''Linus:''' "Wow, who's this? What a pleasant surprise!"
 
'''Linus:''' "Wow, who's this? What a pleasant surprise!"
  
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|Show=none
 
|Show=none
 
}}
 
}}
−
'''Book (Woo):''' "''It's been a fortnight since I brought [[Aganzo|him]] with me. I'm glad he's making a fast recovery, but the grim expression on his face worries me. I get anxious whenever he strokes his sword yearningly.''
+
<small><blockquote>
 +
<i>It's been a fortnight since I brought [[Aganzo|him]] with me. I'm glad he's making a fast recovery, but the grim expression on his face worries me. I get anxious whenever he strokes his sword yearningly.
  
−
''A part of me is happy to be so close to him, although I'm too shy to look him in the eye. I'm also so sad and depressed that I can't focus on anything. I've been making many mistakes, but if the Master has taken notice, he hasn't told me. I've pretended that I don't care if he cares or not.''
+
A part of me is happy to be so close to him, although I'm too shy to look him in the eye. I'm also so sad and depressed that I can't focus on anything. I've been making many mistakes, but if the Master has taken notice, he hasn't told me. I've pretended that I don't care if he cares or not.
  
−
''Every time I catch him looking up at the sky with longing in his eyes, my heart sinks. I hate the couple of birds chirping happily outside the window. He said he'd lost his appetite, so I cooked porridge for him. He barely had a few spoonful of his food. He said he thought he forgot someone and he couldn't remember who it is.''
+
Every time I catch him looking up at the sky with longing in his eyes, my heart sinks. I hate the couple of birds chirping happily outside the window.
  
−
''My lips quivered, and he demanded I tell him what I know. That made me angry: it was for the first time after a while that he spoke to me. I told him that he forgot someone who died. He wanted to know the name. I lied that I didn't know, but I could never forget the name of the [[Roxy|woman]] I envied so much.''
+
How funny! Seeing him makes me just as happy and sad as not seeing him. This emotional turmoil is driving me insane. All the discipline I learned from the Master has gone to naught.
  
−
''If I could move the sun from the western mountain to the east sea, would my wish be granted? If my mother gave birth to me earlier, would I have been able to be with him? I'm helpless when it comes to my feelings for him. I felt as if I'd been abandoned. The moon shone brightly as if mocking of me. If I was abandoned, I could've cried myself to sleep. The night was long and sleepless.''
+
Why didn't my parents have me earlier? I might have been able to be with him if they did. The moon looks down at me chidingly for resenting my innocent parents.
  
−
''My room was cold and dark, so I lit a candle. The candlelight swayed and flickered in the wind, breaking my already frayed mind, bringing tears to my eyes. I told the Master that I would leave as soon as the sun comes up. The heartless man curtly bid me farewell, and then asked me the same question that I'd dreaded.''
+
Moon, don't judge me. You don't know this pain. Don't ask me what I'm afraid of, either. You're the coward who runs away from me at the end of the night.
  
−
''I hesitated and fidgeted. His penetrating eyes and silenced urged me to answer his question. I realized I was a wildflower that could never take root in a rock who is the Master. Resigned, I told him the name. His face instantly brightened, cutting me deep. If she was so precious to him, he shouldn't have forgotten her in the first place.''
+
The sun is up, and I hear him hooking his sword into his belt. I feel my eyes get hot from unshed tears. He hasn't recovered from his injury. Where is he trying to go? Would he not go if I latch onto his sleeve? His diligence irritates me to no end.
  
−
''He thanked me and walked away, leaving me with his shadow that grew as he went. I turned and walked the other way, trying to smile away my sadness.''"
+
I asked him when he'd be back. He said he didn't know. How could he be so cold? Is he doing this to me on purpose?
 +
 
 +
Small clumps of cloud move in the wind. I hide in the Master's shadow for a while, and then turn around, trying to smile away my sadness.</i>
 +
</blockquote></small>
 +
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 +
<hr>
 +
{{HiddenTextStart|
 +
|Title=Unexpressed Sadness (Season 3)
 +
|Width=600
 +
|Show=none
 +
}}
 +
<small><blockquote><i>
 +
It's been a fortnight since I brought [[Aganzo|him]] with me. I'm glad he's making a fast recovery, but the grim expression on his face worries me. I get anxious whenever he strokes his sword yearningly.
 +
 
 +
A part of me is happy to be so close to him, although I'm too shy to look him in the eye. I'm also so sad and depressed that I can't focus on anything. I've been making many mistakes, but if the Master has taken notice, he hasn't told me. I've pretended that I don't care if he cares or not.
 +
 
 +
Every time I catch him looking up at the sky with longing in his eyes, my heart sinks. I hate the couple of birds chirping happily outside the window. He said he'd lost his appetite, so I cooked porridge for him. He barely had a few spoonful of his food. He said he thought he forgot someone and he couldn't remember who it is.
 +
 
 +
My lips quivered, and he demanded I tell him what I know. That made me angry: it was for the first time after a while that he spoke to me. I told him that he forgot someone who died. He wanted to know the name. I lied that I didn't know, but I could never forget the name of the [[Roxy|woman]] I envied so much.
 +
 
 +
If I could move the sun from the western mountain to the east sea, would my wish be granted? If my mother gave birth to me earlier, would I have been able to be with him? I'm helpless when it comes to my feelings for him. I felt as if I'd been abandoned. The moon shone brightly as if mocking of me. If I was abandoned, I could've cried myself to sleep. The night was long and sleepless.
 +
 
 +
My room was cold and dark, so I lit a candle. The candlelight swayed and flickered in the wind, breaking my already frayed mind, bringing tears to my eyes. I told the Master that I would leave as soon as the sun comes up. The heartless man curtly bid me farewell, and then asked me the same question that I'd dreaded.
 +
 
 +
I hesitated and fidgeted. His penetrating eyes and silence urged me to answer his question. I realized I was a wildflower that could never take root in a rock who is the Master. Resigned, I told him the name. His face instantly brightened, cutting me deep. If she was so precious to him, he shouldn't have forgotten her in the first place.
 +
 
 +
He thanked me and walked away, leaving me with his shadow that grew as he went. I turned and walked the other way, trying to smile away my sadness.
 +
</i></blockquote></small>
 
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 
|}
 
|}
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''"But creation can only follow destruction. Some of us have to sacrifice themselves for the creation of our desires, but who will want to return to the embrace of the Great Will?"''
 
''"But creation can only follow destruction. Some of us have to sacrifice themselves for the creation of our desires, but who will want to return to the embrace of the Great Will?"''
  
−
''The other gods sighed in tandem and discussed between them. Soon ten gods were selected and stepped forward. The god who was hiding dew lifted his eyes and examined the ten gods. [[Cain the Fatality|One was afraid of death.]] [[Bakal, the King of Dragons|One breathed fire.]] [[Isis-frey in the Blue Sky|One moved without stepping on the ground.]] [[Kasijas the Conqueror|One had steel soaked in blood.]] [[Sirocco of Intangible|One had hundreds of faces, but none of them were visible.]] [[Ozma of Chaos|One had risen from his grave.]] [[Gangling Lotus|One could hold thousands of weapons at once.]] [[Delezie, Plagued Apostle|One bled dirty blood.]] [[Flame Eater Anton|One was as tall as the world.]] [[Luke the Constructor|One touched the earth without a word.]] [[Michael of the Holy Eye|One could see the truth.]] And last but not least, one knew all secrets.''
+
''The other gods sighed in tandem and discussed between them. Soon twelve gods were selected and stepped forward. The god who was hiding dew lifted his eyes and examined the twelve gods. [[Cain the Fatality|One was afraid of death.]] [[Bakal, the King of Dragons|One breathed fire.]] [[Isis-frey in the Blue Sky|One moved without stepping on the ground.]] [[Kasijas the Conqueror|One had steel soaked in blood.]] [[Sirocco of Intangible|One had hundreds of faces, but none of them were visible.]] [[Ozma of Chaos|One had risen from his grave.]] [[Gangling Lotus|One could hold thousands of weapons at once.]] [[Delezie, Plagued Apostle|One bled dirty blood.]] [[Flame Eater Anton|One was as tall as the world.]] [[Luke the Constructor|One touched the earth without a word.]] [[Michael of the Holy Eye|One could see the truth.]] And last but not least, one knew all secrets.''
  
 
''The god with two faces shouted,''  
 
''The god with two faces shouted,''  
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|Title=Interlude: Noblesky 1
 
|Title=Interlude: Noblesky 1
 
|Width=600
 
|Width=600
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|Show=
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|Show=none
−
}}
 
−
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 
−
{{HiddenTextStart|
 
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|Title=Interlude: Noblesky 2
 
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|Width=600
 
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|Show=
 
 
}}
 
}}
−
''The Princess was nowhere to be seen in the Palace of Ghent. Nevillo Jurgen walked into the old palace, barely suppressing his rage at having to see parts of it destroyed here and there and even burned to the ground in some places.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' What was I supposed to do?
  
−
''He dismissed all the others around him, entered the princess's study, and called for his daughter Marianne. It was a long while before his daughter showed up with Coast Guard Captain Hiram in tow, and Nevillo was so angry that it was all he could do not to strangle his daughter.''
+
''The bridge of Empyrean's warship [[Noblesky]] was no longer bustling with the soldiers who fought Anton. In the middle of the empty space stood Princess Erje, her eyes reflecting the blue ocean outside the ship.''
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' How can you be so stupid? How could you do this to your own father?
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' What was I supposed to do? Should I have set the Lawless District ablaze like they insisted? Should I have let them accuse the Commander of something he didn't do? Should I have left [[Empyrean]] for [[Pandemonium]], like the [[Imperial Princess Isabella|Imperial Princess]]? Should I have gone against what my heart was telling me?
  
−
'''[[Marianne]]:''' ...Father. You came earlier than I thought.
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' ...
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' Is that all you have to say?
+
''The Colonel, who had stood by the Commander all this time, was quiet. He'd been in and out of consciousness since he arrived, and everyone was worried about him. Looking at his pale face, Erje was worried and relieved at the same time. Having him there, she felt as if the Commander was with her. But [[Jackter]] was far away, locked up in Ghent. She should've let the old general retire like he wanted. He wouldn't have been disgraced like this, then.''
  
−
'''[[Marianne]]:''' I don't understand why you're so upset. I've captured Jackter the Eagle Eye and banished the princess for you.
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' What is it?
  
−
''Sometimes you're so upset that you're at a loss for words. That was the case with Nevillo. He was next to none when it comes to speech and persuasion, but his daughter's cheeky remark left him feeling as if he was choking.''
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' I'm sorry. I wasn't sure if I was expected to answer.
  
−
''Hiram, who stood behind Marianne and had observed the father and daughter's conversation, broke into a grin.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' You are.
  
−
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' Don't be so upset. Your daughter led this operation with flying colors. She's no longer the child you have to take care of. That should make you happy.
+
''Suddenly, Woon knelt on the ground, supporting his body with his hands. Given his sickly condition, he shouldn't be standing, let alone kneeling on the cold floor, but he didn't care.''
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' Captain Hiram, what are you up to? Why did you encourage her to do this? We're no better than the Kartels now.
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' The nobles abandoned their duty to this country and ran from the war. They're not in a position to demand anything, and yet they act this way because you didn't punish them for their cowardice. Like criminals who have managed to evade prosecution, these nobles think that they're untouchable. And the people are angry with you because you gave them a free pass. That was what triggered all this.
  
−
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' No, we're not. We can't be more alike. Besides, it was you who said we shouldn't wait for an opportunity to present itself--we should create it on our own. The Coast Guard has been waiting all this time.
+
''Erje pursed her lips. She wanted comfort and got reprimanded instead. Most times she welcomed criticism, but not when she felt cornered and so desperate. Jackter once told her the same thing, that she must arrest all the runaway nobles. She refused. Then, she let herself be captured by the Kartels. She felt responsible for their abandonment... She regretted it now, and hearing her mistake through someone else's mouth brought tears to her eyes. When she spoke, she couldn't help but sound sullen.''
  
−
''Hiram sounded nonchalant, but he couldn't hide the scowl on his face. Fortunately, Jurgen was too angry to notice.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' They have so much influence on this country's economy. At that time, most of my soldiers were wounded and out of commission. I caused my country grief by letting myself be captured by the enemy. I felt that I must forgive their misjudgment and give them a chance to redeem themselves.
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' But the timing was wrong! And the people saw you chase away the helpless princess! Now they think the nobility and the Empire are no better than the Kartels! Sympathy is a great weapon. Why do you think the people still love that incompetent princess? The time that the people bowed to their ruler out of fear has gone. They still love her because they're a sentimental lot. Public sentiment is what kept her in power so far. The princess hasn't done anything good for the country, but she didn't do anything wrong either. The people know that. They feel sorry that she became a leader so young. They already think of her like their own child, and we drove her away like the Kartels did!
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' But what about [[Nevillo Jurgen]]? He couldn't fulfill his ambition because he was born a man, so he attacked the chink in your armor more persistently than the others. Why do you think he remained in [[Ghent]] when his peers ran? Why do you think he volunteered to lead the expedition of [[Zelva|Zelba]]? One who has power never leaves his office for long, lest someone else might seize the opportunity to replace him. He wanted to set himself apart from you and the other nobles so badly. He would have risen against you if the nobility didn't beat him to it. And once this is over, the general populace will side with him, and that would further weaken your authority.
  
−
''Jurgen was now screaming, but that didn't faze Marianne. Her gaze on him remained cool and sarcastic.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' The nobility is trying to protect their own interests. Don't you think it won't be able to check Jurgen?
  
−
'''[[Marianne]]:''' What do you mean, "we?" You never took part in this.
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' The people remember who fought for Ghent in your absence. They don't care about the rest of the nobility. The nobles abandoned them when they needed them the most.
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' What are you talking about?
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' Then they surely remember Commander Eagle Eye fought for their country. Why don't they accept him?
  
−
'''[[Marianne]]:''' Where were you when we drove away the princess and captured the Eagle Eye? Oh, that's right. You were in Zelba. It was Sir Verta, The Coast Guard, and I who saw this through. You have no right to be angry with me.
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' I can't tell you, but you know he and I are both from the Lawless District.
  
−
''Nevillo felt as if someone poured cold water on his head. This wasn't the obedient Marianne he knew. He felt as if he didn't know the woman who stood proudly in front of him.''
+
''Erje closed her mouth. She already knew the answer before she asked the question. It was all but her fault that the citizens of the Imperial Capital and the nobility became so wary of Jackter. The old prejudices against the Lawless District still held strong, and her implicit trust in the most successful man out of the district was a threat to the rest of Empyrean. Woon just couldn't bring himself to point that out.
  
−
''Marianne ignored the pang of guilt she felt and lifted her chin defiantly. She still respected her father, but she was tired of being called a little girl who hid behind her father.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' But what about the false accusation of the Commander? I spent a lot of time trying to stop the nobility from spreading rumors about him.
  
−
'''[[Marianne]]:''' We couldn't have done this if it weren't for you. I know that and I'll make it up to you, but I can't live in your shadow forever.
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' If I were you, I would've tried him in the court of law to openly discuss the possible transgressions that others say he has committed. The nobles blamed him for leaving Ghent, letting you be abducted by the enemy, and going on a wild goose chase after [[Anton]]. But Anton had to be stopped, and the commander succeeded. The way he went about doing it may have been flawed, but that wasn't serious enough to cost his life. I would have publicly forgiven him and emphasized how he defeated Anton and made it possible to defeat [[Apostles#Ninth_Apostle:_Luke_the_Constructor|Luke]]. According to our Constitution, he can't be tried twice for the same crime. The trial would've permanently put the matter to rest. You succeeded in emphasizing his exploits, but you failed to use them to justify his mistakes. As a result, more people turned against him. And now he's in their hands, at their mercy.
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' ...Everything I did, I did it for you. You could've waited a little longer. You could've done all this without blood on your hands.
+
''Woon coughed frequently, but he didn't let that interfere with his speech. At the beginning of their conversation, Erje all but resented this young colonel, but now she couldn't help but admire him. He was still in his twenties, and he was already being mentioned as the next brigadier general, and that wasn't just because of his military exploits. But Erje felt resistance to his suggestion. His solution would have brought disgrace -- albeit temporarily -- to the great hero.
  
−
'''[[Marianne]]:''' You're only thinking I was impatient because you're a man. But I'm a woman, and in my opinion, the timing couldn't have been more perfect. The Eagle Eye will pay for costing this country so dearly, and the princess will soon follow suit.
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' We're not the Kartels. We don't repay honor with disgrace. Our soldiers fight to protect their country and honor. Trying such a great general for something he didn't do is not what we stand for. You have a point, but I would never bring disgrace to the Commander's name.
  
−
''Nevillo, who felt helpless until that moment, lifted his eyebrows and glared.''
+
''The Princess's tone was not as harsh as it was before, but still, there was underlying resistance. If Jurgen was here, he would've called out on her ethical hypersensitivity.
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' This is why I kept you from the Council of the Nobility for as long as I did. You're going to punish the princess, but for what? Were you listening to me when I said the princess did nothing wrong? You could say anything you want, and the people will still think she's innocent. Incompetent, yes, but not guilty. Incompetence in a leader is a reason for impeachment. But everyone knows the princess was too young and unprepared when she ascended to the throne. Why do you think I attacked Eagle Eye? Insisted that soldiers like him are a threat? It's because I didn't have a choice. He was her wings and her shield. When you catch a bird, you break its wings first. I went for the Eagle Eye for that exact reason. I was going to separate him from her, so I could pressure her into handing the Imperial Seal over to me. I was going to send her away to a small temple in a remote village, so she would be a constant object of ridicule until she dies. Well, thanks to you, she's become the fragile little princess again.
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' But now I understand why the Commander thinks so highly of you. I considered appointing you an envoy purely based on others' opinions. I'm glad I didn't, and I wish we had this conversation a long time ago. Colonel, Jurgen wants to change Empyrean. But he's involved with the Empire. The moment Empyrean falls into his hands, our country will never be free from the Empire's influence. We must stop Jurgen. To do that, we must return to Ghent. What do you recommend for me to do.
  
−
'''[[Marianne]]:''' Are you saying we shouldn't kill her? But she won't stop fighting as long as she lives.
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' I'd recommend that you call for reinforcements and leave the rest of the planning to others who are more experienced than I am. I'm not good enough to assist you in this matter.
  
−
''Marianne argued. Nevillo felt wearier talking to her than fighting his enemies.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' Do you mean, call Wespeace and Etten for reinforcements? They've been ignoring this situation for so long. I doubt they'll respond to my summons.
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' What you really have to worry about is Anton. Anton is strong enough to decimate our army and destroy the Power Station. All the princess has is sympathy from the people. If the Eagle Eye didn't go after Anton when he did...
+
''Erje gripped her skirt, but she couldn't stop the tears from falling. The sense of betrayal and sadness that she tried so hard to bury had resurfaced. She would have broken down in tears if Woon tried to console her. But he didn't. He kept his head lowered and gave her time to regain composure.''
  
−
''Nevillo stopped himself from firing off. He remembered Hiram was still with them.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' ...We don't have time to wait for them. Jurgen isn't the only problem. The nobility will kill the Commander. The Adventurer risked his life to save me. I have people waiting for me in Ghent, and I can't disappoint them. We must move now.
  
−
''Hiram Klauf was the captain of the Coast Guard and Herman's student. Nevillo knew he wasn't the friendly man he wanted others to believe.''
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' I'm not equipped to make that happen. Order me to assassinate Jurgen instead. I can get it done, even if it kills me.
  
−
''He needed him. He was the sharpest weapon he had in his arsenal. But he couldn't be trusted; having faith in a bomb's destructive power is one thing. Thinking it wouldn't kill you is another.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' I can't lose you. And I'm not going to order you to assassinate anyone. We're different from the nobility. I won't do things that I'll later feel ashamed to admit to my people. They've been through enough as it is. I can bring him to justice without shedding blood. He's committed treason -- that's enough to keep him locked away for the rest of his life. There has to be another way. We're just unable to figure it out at this moment.
  
−
''Nevillo breathed deeply. On the inside he was a whirlwind of emotions, but his face remained a mask of calmness, a self-defense mechanism he developed during his years at the Court.''
+
''Erje was adamant. Prostrate, Woon looked up at the Princess, and let his head fall, feeling helpless.''
  
−
''Behind this mask he quickly calculated his odds, and then spoke in a brittle tone that worked like a charm on his daughter every time.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' I'm sorry if I'm being unreasonable, but we can't respond to violence with violence. That'll only further push the people away from us. I have a plan. I haven't had a chance to achieve it because of the nobility, but once we get over this, I'll see that it comes true. That plan will help me and the Commander make Empyrean the world that we've been dreaming of. In that world, the nobility won't be as unruly as they are now. The Commander thinks of you as his own. If anything, you should do this for him.
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' Go. Give away food to people and make them happy. Convince Zeldine Schneider and Marlene Kitzka that you mean the princess no harm. Don't hurt either one of them. They're your ticket out of this.
+
'''[[Woon]]:''' ...I will, Your Highness.
  
−
''His tone worked on his daughter just as he expected. His resignation unsettled her more than his anger ever could.''
+
''Woon answered after a moment of hesitation. Erje thanked him and left the bridge. The sudden wind from the sea startled her, but she quickly straightened her shoulders and opened her eyes wide. She wasn't the princess who shook and wept a moment ago. Her innate intelligence and will, which helped her endure when she was at the mercy of the Kartels, gave her new strength.
  
−
''Marianne was already agitated by the Adventurer's intervention that ruined her complete victory. She couldn't leave the study faster to do what her father said.''
+
'''[[Erje]]:''' (...I may be cornered, but I'm not dead. So long as I'm alive, I must fulfill my obligations to my country and my people. I'm not going to fail the Commander and the Adventurer.)
  
−
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' You should be proud of her. She could've made a great soldier if she had a mind.
+
''Erje was no longer looking out at the sea. In the meantime, Woon was panicking. He was tormented by self-condemnation, a fear of failing again, and self-doubt that kept whispering to him that things would've been better if Jackter was there instead of him. Left alone on the bridge, Woon remained kneeling on the floor, unfeeling of the cold that slowly seeped from the floor into his body and unaware of time passing, until his men came to find him.''
  
−
''Nevillo swore inside.''
+
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 +
{{HiddenTextStart|
 +
|Title=Interlude: Noblesky 2
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|Width=600
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 +
}}
 +
''The Princess was nowhere to be seen in the Palace of Ghent. Nevillo Jurgen walked into the old palace, barely suppressing his rage at having to see parts of it destroyed here and there and even burned to the ground in some places.''
  
−
''He cut down the military enlistment budget, claiming that they didn't need many soldiers, that soldiers were no better than the Kartels except that they had the license to kill, that civilians could help in states of emergency. It was clear what Hiram just said wasn't meant to be a compliment.''
+
''He dismissed all the others around him, entered the princess's study, and called for his daughter Marianne. It was a long while before his daughter showed up with Coast Guard Captain Hiram in tow, and Nevillo was so angry that it was all he could do not to strangle his daughter.''
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' You instigated my daughter and other impatient nobles into creating this mess. What the hell are you up to?
+
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' How can you be so stupid? How could you do this to your own father?
  
−
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' I told you before. I hate the Eagle Eye. When we were dealing with Anton, he only pretended to trust me. He was ready to throw me out the first chance he got. I only beat him to it. I'm just trying to survive here, just like you. That's good enough reason, isn't it?
+
'''[[Marianne]]:''' ...Father. You came earlier than I thought.
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' You should've been more patient. I would've given you the chance.
+
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' Is that all you have to say?
  
−
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' Please, I knew your plan. You were going to dispose me and the rest of the Coast Guard once our usefulness ran out. I couldn't let you do that.
+
'''[[Marianne]]:''' I don't understand why you're so upset. I've captured Jackter the Eagle Eye and banished the princess for you.
 +
 
 +
''Sometimes you're so upset that you're at a loss for words. That was the case with Nevillo. He was next to none when it comes to speech and persuasion, but his daughter's cheeky remark left him feeling as if he was choking.''
 +
 
 +
''Hiram, who stood behind Marianne and had observed the father and daughter's conversation, broke into a grin.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' Don't be so upset. Your daughter led this operation with flying colors. She's no longer the child you have to take care of. That should make you happy.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' Captain Hiram, what are you up to? Why did you encourage her to do this? We're no better than the Kartels now.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' No, we're not. We can't be more alike. Besides, it was you who said we shouldn't wait for an opportunity to present itself--we should create it on our own. The Coast Guard has been waiting all this time.
 +
 
 +
''Hiram sounded nonchalant, but he couldn't hide the scowl on his face. Fortunately, Jurgen was too angry to notice.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' But the timing was wrong! And the people saw you chase away the helpless princess! Now they think the nobility and the Empire are no better than the Kartels! Sympathy is a great weapon. Why do you think the people still love that incompetent princess? The time that the people bowed to their ruler out of fear has gone. They still love her because they're a sentimental lot. Public sentiment is what kept her in power so far. The princess hasn't done anything good for the country, but she didn't do anything wrong either. The people know that. They feel sorry that she became a leader so young. They already think of her like their own child, and we drove her away like the Kartels did!
 +
 
 +
''Jurgen was now screaming, but that didn't faze Marianne. Her gaze on him remained cool and sarcastic.''
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' ...
+
'''[[Marianne]]:''' What do you mean, "we?" You never took part in this.
  
−
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' Anyway, I see that we've come to agree that the princess should live. At least for a while. The Adventurer, hero of Empyrean, is on her side. That's been disconcerting to both the nobility and the general populace. At least the Eagle Eye gets to die. You were thinking about sending him into exile instead, weren't you?
+
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' What are you talking about?
  
−
''Hiram sounded cynical and frustrated at the same time. Jurgen hid the surprise in his eyes by pretending to adjust his glasses.''
+
'''[[Marianne]]:''' Where were you when we drove away the princess and captured the Eagle Eye? Oh, that's right. You were in Zelba. It was Sir Verta, The Coast Guard, and I who saw this through. You have no right to be angry with me.
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' ...We might need him in the future.
+
''Nevillo felt as if someone poured cold water on his head. This wasn't the obedient Marianne he knew. He felt as if he didn't know the woman who stood proudly in front of him.''
  
−
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' Pick your side. You either get rid of him or keep him alive. But now that things have changed, trying to save the old eagle will only get you in trouble. I'd better leave now. We couldn't have done this if it weren't for you, true, but also there are things we have to clean up because of you. We'll settle our debts later.
+
''Marianne ignored the pang of guilt she felt and lifted her chin defiantly. She still respected her father, but she was tired of being called a little girl who hid behind her father.''
  
−
''Hiram left, leaving Nevillo alone in the princess's study. He stood up from the chair and paced about the room.''
+
'''[[Marianne]]:''' We couldn't have done this if it weren't for you. I know that and I'll make it up to you, but I can't live in your shadow forever.
  
−
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' (Hiram needs to die. I picked him because I thought he was useful, but who knew he was a loose cannon? He has to die. He has to. The princess is not a problem. Neither is the nobility, so long as it refuses to accept the fact that times have changed. The problem is that rabid dog.)
+
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' ...Everything I did, I did it for you. You could've waited a little longer. You could've done all this without blood on your hands.
  
−
''Nevillo was so angry that he was gritting his teeth, but he still took care not to speak his mind, lest someone might be hiding somewhere, spying on him.''
+
'''[[Marianne]]:''' You're only thinking I was impatient because you're a man. But I'm a woman, and in my opinion, the timing couldn't have been more perfect. The Eagle Eye will pay for costing this country so dearly, and the princess will soon follow suit.
  
−
''But his head was filled with all kind of bloody images at that moment. For a while, he thought about possible solutions to his problem. Then, when he finally found just the right one, he smiled.''
+
''Nevillo, who felt helpless until that moment, lifted his eyebrows and glared.''
−
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
+
 
−
{{HiddenTextStart|
+
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' This is why I kept you from the Council of the Nobility for as long as I did. You're going to punish the princess, but for what? Were you listening to me when I said the princess did nothing wrong? You could say anything you want, and the people will still think she's innocent. Incompetent, yes, but not guilty. Incompetence in a leader is a reason for impeachment. But everyone knows the princess was too young and unprepared when she ascended to the throne. Why do you think I attacked Eagle Eye? Insisted that soldiers like him are a threat? It's because I didn't have a choice. He was her wings and her shield. When you catch a bird, you break its wings first. I went for the Eagle Eye for that exact reason. I was going to separate him from her, so I could pressure her into handing the Imperial Seal over to me. I was going to send her away to a small temple in a remote village, so she would be a constant object of ridicule until she dies. Well, thanks to you, she's become the fragile little princess again.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Marianne]]:''' Are you saying we shouldn't kill her? But she won't stop fighting as long as she lives.
 +
 
 +
''Marianne argued. Nevillo felt wearier talking to her than fighting his enemies.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' What you really have to worry about is Anton. Anton is strong enough to decimate our army and destroy the Power Station. All the princess has is sympathy from the people. If the Eagle Eye didn't go after Anton when he did...
 +
 
 +
''Nevillo stopped himself from firing off. He remembered Hiram was still with them.''
 +
 
 +
''Hiram Klauf was the captain of the Coast Guard and Herman's student. Nevillo knew he wasn't the friendly man he wanted others to believe.''
 +
 
 +
''He needed him. He was the sharpest weapon he had in his arsenal. But he couldn't be trusted; having faith in a bomb's destructive power is one thing. Thinking it wouldn't kill you is another.''
 +
 
 +
''Nevillo breathed deeply. On the inside he was a whirlwind of emotions, but his face remained a mask of calmness, a self-defense mechanism he developed during his years at the Court.''
 +
 
 +
''Behind this mask he quickly calculated his odds, and then spoke in a brittle tone that worked like a charm on his daughter every time.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' Go. Give away food to people and make them happy. Convince Zeldine Schneider and Marlene Kitzka that you mean the princess no harm. Don't hurt either one of them. They're your ticket out of this.
 +
 
 +
''His tone worked on his daughter just as he expected. His resignation unsettled her more than his anger ever could.''
 +
 
 +
''Marianne was already agitated by the Adventurer's intervention that ruined her complete victory. She couldn't leave the study faster to do what her father said.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' You should be proud of her. She could've made a great soldier if she had a mind.
 +
 
 +
''Nevillo swore inside.''
 +
 
 +
''He cut down the military enlistment budget, claiming that they didn't need many soldiers, that soldiers were no better than the Kartels except that they had the license to kill, that civilians could help in states of emergency. It was clear what Hiram just said wasn't meant to be a compliment.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' You instigated my daughter and other impatient nobles into creating this mess. What the hell are you up to?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' I told you before. I hate the Eagle Eye. When we were dealing with Anton, he only pretended to trust me. He was ready to throw me out the first chance he got. I only beat him to it. I'm just trying to survive here, just like you. That's good enough reason, isn't it?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' You should've been more patient. I would've given you the chance.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' Please, I knew your plan. You were going to dispose me and the rest of the Coast Guard once our usefulness ran out. I couldn't let you do that.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' ...
 +
 
 +
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' Anyway, I see that we've come to agree that the princess should live. At least for a while. The Adventurer, hero of Empyrean, is on her side. That's been disconcerting to both the nobility and the general populace. At least the Eagle Eye gets to die. You were thinking about sending him into exile instead, weren't you?
 +
 
 +
''Hiram sounded cynical and frustrated at the same time. Jurgen hid the surprise in his eyes by pretending to adjust his glasses.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' ...We might need him in the future.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Hiram Klauf]]:''' Pick your side. You either get rid of him or keep him alive. But now that things have changed, trying to save the old eagle will only get you in trouble. I'd better leave now. We couldn't have done this if it weren't for you, true, but also there are things we have to clean up because of you. We'll settle our debts later.
 +
 
 +
''Hiram left, leaving Nevillo alone in the princess's study. He stood up from the chair and paced about the room.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Nevillo Jurgen]]:''' (Hiram needs to die. I picked him because I thought he was useful, but who knew he was a loose cannon? He has to die. He has to. The princess is not a problem. Neither is the nobility, so long as it refuses to accept the fact that times have changed. The problem is that rabid dog.)
 +
 
 +
''Nevillo was so angry that he was gritting his teeth, but he still took care not to speak his mind, lest someone might be hiding somewhere, spying on him.''
 +
 
 +
''But his head was filled with all kind of bloody images at that moment. For a while, he thought about possible solutions to his problem. Then, when he finally found just the right one, he smiled.''
 +
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 +
{{HiddenTextStart|
 
|Title=Interlude: Noblesky 3
 
|Title=Interlude: Noblesky 3
 
|Width=600
 
|Width=600
−
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+
|Show=none
 +
}}
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' What should we do?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' What should we do what?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' Should we go rescue the Princess, or stay put?
 +
 
 +
''They were sitting in a corner of the training ground at the Etten Headquarters. Navarre stopped drinking his soda and asked nonchalantly. Biyan didn't feel as relaxed as her companion might have been.''
 +
 
 +
''She almost strained her neck, trying to make out if her superior was drunk or something from drinking too much soda. For a moment, she even wondered if she was talking to a different person.''
 +
 
 +
''Navarre turned his eyes away from the flock of clouds in the sky and smiled at Biyan, whose face was closer now that before.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' You smell like you've been drenched in soda. You're Lieutenant Navarre, alright. How many cans have you had today?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' No one gets drunk by drinking soda. By the way, can you really smell soda from me?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' Yes, because you drink it so much. Keep drinking like that, and you'll lose all your teeth before you're forty.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' ...Don't treat me like an old man. My teeth are fine.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' I was just saying because you asked a strange question. You've always been fighting for the Princess.
 +
 
 +
''Biyan closed the book she was reading. The afternoon was quiet. No one had passed them by. In the official Army setting, they were superior and subordinate, but when they were alone, they talked like when they were just two mercenaries.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' That's because she symbolizes the resistance against the Kartels, but now... I'm tired.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' I don't mind fighting, but I don't want to fight forever. We just got out of a war with the Kartels, and then a revolt broke out in Ghent. Will there ever be peace?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' The princess had nothing to do with the Kartels though.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' In a way, she does. The Kartels rose from the ashes after the priestess who preceded her died. Anton is as unstoppable as a natural disaster, but everything else happened after was because of our leaders.
 +
 
 +
''Navarre started to ponder, and Biyan took the soda bottle out of his hand and took a long drink.''
 +
 
 +
''The soda tasted warm and flat, rather than sweet and cool as she imagined. She grimaced, and Navarre gloated.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' This is why I can't emphasize the importance of prompt supplies enough. Whoever has better logistics wins the battle, always. And we're not them.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' You and your soda and your logistics. But why? What did the Commander say that got you in this weird mood?
 +
 
 +
''Biyan was talking about the commander of the Etten Headquarters. Navarre furrowed his brow.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' She thinks maybe we should go independent this time.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' Huh?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' The electricity that feeds all of Empyrean is produced in this place. Its infrastructure is not completely restored, but now that the engineers are back, it's producing enough electricity for Etten. We don't need help from the Seven Shards anymore.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' The Coast Guard has gone to Ghent. The nobility will be too busy dealing with the situation in the capital city for a while. The same with the Imperial Army. She thinks we could use electricity as leverage to demand our rights.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' In other words, our lady commander wants to become the governor of Etten.
 +
 
 +
''He said it so casually that it took a while for Biyan to feel the impact of his statement. Wide-eyed, she repeated the word governor for a while. Suddenly, she started hitting Navarre on his shoulder.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' Are you crazy? Why didn't you say anything to stop her? This is why people call you the nepotism hire!
 +
 
 +
''Navarre was quiet for a moment. She was telling the truth, and he had nothing to say to that.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' She's just daydreaming about it for now. I didn't want to goad her, so I just played along. Ouch--stop hitting me!
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' Etten is at an important turning point. We have to decide if we look out for Number One, or stay loyal to the rest of the state.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' Don't get any stupid ideas! This country is smaller than you think. If something goes wrong, we'll die--oh.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' Yes, things have changed. We can always run to Underworld, and we don't have to go through Ghent to get there. Underworld is much bigger than Empyrean. It'll be harder to find us there.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' So what seems to be the biggest challenge to this country is the greatest opportunity to the ambitious.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' So I asked you, whether we should go rescue the Princess or stay put.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' We could choose the Princess and stay loyal to her, but we'd get stuck. The others might refuse to join us, and we could even get caught by the Commander before we leave Etten.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' Or we could stay here and keep the aspiring governor in check. But that would leave the Princess helpless.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' We could stay here and still express our support for her, but then the Commander wouldn't leave us alone. We'd better keep our mouths shut, or she'll make us go to the end of the land and force us to dive into the ocean.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' She's a smart lady. She's plotting treason, and she's not leaving anything that could incriminate her. What I told you about her wanting to become governor didn't come out of her mouth. Say that to anyone else, and I'll be court-martialed for defaming my superior.
 +
 
 +
''Navarre grumbled, but Biyan was relieved to know he was still the same man he was when they first met as mercenaries.''
 +
 
 +
''But Navarre was just one man, and there is only so much one man can do.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' Many Imperial soldiers remain in the Imperial Capital. Our soldiers there are inferior in number. Our weapons are old to begin with, but they're practically all worn out after fighting the Kartels. Cut off the electricity, and things will get worse. Restoring the Princess to the throne wouldn't be the biggest problem then.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' What about the Lawless District--I mean the Wespeace Headquarters? It hasn't moved either. What's their stand?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' We should leave it out of the discussion. It has enough on its plate--Kartel remnants, the militia, anarchists, oh, and Neil. Thank the gods, I wasn't sent there.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' I wish Commander Eagle Eye were here... The nobility ruined his reputation, but he's the greatest man I know.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' Those who believed the rumors that the nobility spread about him are also at fault, even if they didn't actively participate.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' I don't know how things went so wrong...
 +
 
 +
''Navarre felt the sadness in her tone, but he didn't know what to say.''
 +
 
 +
''How did things go so wrong? Some say things went downhill the moment Anton showed up. Some blame the reappearance of Underworld.''
 +
 
 +
''Navarre agrees with neither. He patted Biyan's lowered head. The sun finally came out from behind the thick blanket of clouds, but it was about to disappear below the horizon.''
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' The Adventurer opened a path to Underworld. He came with the Imperial Army, and took care of the Kartels and Anton. And even Luke. Maybe all this is just part of the change that the Adventurer has set in motion.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' Whether it's a new change or simply a side effect is yet to be seen, but he didn't cause this conflict we're having. It's always been inside us.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' I don't know what's going to happen, but I'm glad I have choices.
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' What do you choose?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Navarre]]:''' I'm staying. You?
 +
 
 +
'''[[Biyan]]:''' Do you have to ask? You know I won't go anywhere without you.
 +
 
 +
''Biyan smiled gently behind the curtain of black hair that fell to the side of her face.''
 +
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
===The Wind Blowing upon the Lawless District===
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="background-color: #aaaaaa; text-align:center;"
 +
!style="background-color: #CEF6E3;" |Cover
 +
!style="background-color: #CEF6E3;" |Chapter(s)
 +
|-style="background-color: #ffffff;" align="center"
 +
|[[File:Locked Storybook.png]] || valign="top"|
 +
{{HiddenTextStart|
 +
|Title=The Wind Blowing upon the Lawless District: Chapter 1
 +
|Width=600
 +
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}}
 +
<small>
 +
<i>The Company was accused of making an attempt on the life of Empyrean's highest priest. Even thought it was respected as a famous mercenary group, the general populace accepted the Palace's declaration of its betrayal as the truth. Its leader, O'Connell, kept screaming in his cell that his group was innocent, but no one listened.
 +
 
 +
As a freelancing mercenary group, The Company refused to take side with any political faction. Its goal to protect its country as a neutral party was admirable, but created many enemies. By the time O'Connell realized that, it was too late.
 +
 
 +
There was no place for his group on the Capital Island, which meant he had to escape. The Company, consisted of capable mercenaries, could get its leader out of the prison easily, but the question was, "Where should we go afterward?"
 +
 
 +
The Lawless District was a land of its own. it was the only place in Empyrean that the Palace's influence couldn't reach. It was also a land of outlaws, but there were no noblemen who would want to take advantage of the military group. There, it could be free.
 +
 
 +
The Company arrived at a beach in the Lawless District. The Lawless District was baren and filled with silence instead of the glamor that prevailed on the streets of the Capital Island. O'Connell liked it. Here, he could enjoy the gentle breeze blowing against his cheeks without having to watch his back.
 +
 
 +
Even outlaws had cities. O'Connell and his group decided to go to the city on the other side of the desert that they were in and get familiarized with their new home.
 +
 
 +
While crossing the desert, they met various groups of outlaws. All of them were rough, and most of them were just rabbles of misfits. "There guys are beneath us," said O'Connell.
 +
 
 +
Then, they met a pretty well-organized group. O'Connell was going to teach them a lesson before sending them back home, but it didn't take long before he realized this group was different from the others. It had an established chain of command, and its members were good at using weapons.
 +
 
 +
The group's leader, after several of his members were given a good beating, stepped in and tried to negotiate with The Company. He knew his adversaries were different from the other outlaws he'd met.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' "Let me apologize for these guy's rudeness. We thought you were after us. You're impressive. Name's Enzo Sipo.
 +
 
 +
<i>This group's leader was unique. He sounded passionate and there's even a sense of righteousness in his eyes. He was too good to be in the midst of outlaws. He was determined to turn the Lawless District, the cesspool of outcasts, into a paradise where everyone could be happy.
 +
 
 +
Enzo's group was smaller than other city-based groups, but everyone in his group believed in his cause and admired his charismatic leadership. O'Connell liked his cause, too. The Company joined Enzo's group.
 +
 
 +
After The Company joined, Enzo's group grew bigger by the day. The members of the Company always fought on the front lines of battles, teaching and inspiring their outlaw comrades along the way. Enzo Sipo, with the seasoned battle commander O'Connell and Sandstorm Varracht on his side, won every battle he fought and conquered every city he had his eyes on.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' We will not steal from you.
 +
 
 +
<i>The people of the Lawless District raved as their new leader abolished the old corrupt government and its cruel policies. Enzo embraced these people and showed them his generosity. Everywhere in the Lawless District, people couldn't stop singing praise about him. Feeling threatened by Enzo's rising popularity, other outlaw groups declared war against him. Sparks of war consumed the once quiet cities.
 +
 
 +
However, Enzo was an amazing tactician. During the siege of an enemy fortress, he used bikes to climb the steep hill on which the fortress stood, taking the enemy by surprise.
 +
 
 +
Watching the fortress being burned down, Enzo spoke.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' I hope one day they'll understand my dreams. And that not everyone here is an outlaw, and that some of us are actually good guys. The dusk is dark, but the sun will rise. A better future is coming.
 +
 
 +
<i>One day, Enzo and his group were taking a break from fighting other outlaws when a suspicious mist rolled in to their camp. Soon, a strange disease of unknown cause started spreading among them. This disease made them sleepy, they dreamed nightmares. Day after day, they would have nightmares, and in the end they became extremely violent and impulsive. Enzo took this seriously, so he quarantined those who were infected by this sleep disorder and looked for its cause, but all to no avail. Time passed.
 +
 
 +
One evening, Enzo experienced nightmares and auditory hallucinations.
 +
 
 +
You desire power...</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' "Who's there? Who's talking?
 +
 
 +
<i>Enzo looked around and saw a suspicious woman in a black hood. Alerted by her sudden appearance, he pointed his gun at her.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:'''  Who are you?
 +
 
 +
'''???:''' You're too sharp. I'd better leave now.
 +
 
 +
<i>The woman in a black hood disappeared before he shot his gun. Enzo then started hearing things.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' Power... Destruction...
 +
 
 +
<i>Enzo Sipo had changed. The others hadn't noticed, but his eyes had lost the passion and yearning for romance. Naturally his group changed, too. Without his control, the outlaw group went back to its old cruel habits, pillaging people and setting their homes on fire. O'Connell and Varracht sensed the change in Enzo. He was as charismatic as before, but he was no longer the man they admired.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Varracht:''' Enzo has changed.
 +
 
 +
<i>Varracht muttered bitterly. O'Connell agreed. Enzo, wanting to expand his territory, started letting any outlaws--even the crueler ones--into his group. Then one day, The Company's information led Enzo to a mercenary captain named Rangelus. Infamous for his cruelty and penchant for carnage, Mercenary Captain Rangelus went against everything Enzo Sipo said he believed in. Enzo wanted him, anyway. He notified his executive members that Rangelus was going to join them. O'Connell and Varracht were suspicious. Enzo wanted the outlaws to live freely; Rangelus wanted to keep them under his control.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' But Rangelus doesn't believe in what we do.
 +
 
 +
<i>O'Connell said. Enzo answered sternly.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' Beliefs can change. We need him to unify the Lawless District and show the Capital Island what we've got.
 +
 
 +
<i>Enzo spoke with the same charismatic tone as he used to, but O'Connell and Varracht knew better. His leader was a different man now.
 +
 
 +
Enzo went to where Rangelus's Guerrillas were stationed. No civilians were around, probably too scared to be in the company of the ruthless mercenaries.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Rangelus:''' What bring the Eye of Dawn here?
 +
 
 +
<i>Rangelus asked. He had a captured civilian with him.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' Fight for me, Rangelus.
 +
 
 +
<i>Enzo said in an authoritative tone.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Rangelus:''' I don't care for what you believe in. You don't rule by force. You're too softhearted to kill a civilian.
 +
 
 +
<i>Having heard that, Enzo fired his gun at the civilian without batting an eye.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' What about now?
 +
 
 +
<i>Rangelus hesitated for a moment, and then said with a note of laughter in his voice.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Rangelus:''' That changes things. I'm in.
 +
</small>
 +
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 +
{{HiddenTextStart|
 +
|Title=The Wind Blowing upon the Lawless District: Chapter 2
 +
|Width=600
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|Show=none
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}}
 +
<small><i>
 +
Sandstorm Varracht had been with Enzo Sipo since Edon's Brotherhood, and he was renowned among the outlaws of the Lawless District ro his ability to trigger sandstorms with his bullets. Among the Kartels, Varracht was just as influential as their leader, Enzo Sipo.
 +
 
 +
Varracht opposed the Kartel's plan to wage war in their effort to unify the Lawless District, and he had such a big following within the organization that Enzo Sipo couldn't ignore his opinion.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Varracht:''' I've been with you for a long time, but I can't agree to this meaningless war.
 +
 
 +
<i>Varracht's voice carried his convictions.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Varracht:''' And letting that woman who comes to you sometimes meddle in our business goes against the ideals I've been chasing all this time.
 +
 
 +
<i>Cold anger gleamed in Enzo's eyes. This was why he'd excluded Varracht from meetings with the Prophet.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' Then, I have no reason to hesitate anymore. You and I are done.
 +
 
 +
<i>Enzo said quietly and coldly.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' You've been a good friend, so I'll let you go peacefully. But you'd better wish you never see me again.
 +
 
 +
<i>Enzo turned his back and walked away. Varracht thought, I'd better leave him alone; I don't want to cause any unnecessary fights. So Varracht left Enzo's tent. Now that Enzo is determined to conquer all of the Lawless District, it'd be safe for him to move as far away as possible. While crossing the desert, he noticed some people were following him, screaming death for the traitor.
 +
 
 +
Enzo must have told them that I've betrayed him, he thought. He set up traps as he moved, and while his pursuers were distracted by the traps, he safely got out of the danger zone. He was about to leave the Kartel's territory when he was welcomed by another comrade. He didn't look lie he wanted to fight. Varracht smiled and spoke.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Varracht:''' You're so good that you got through my traps as if they were nothing, didnt' you?
 +
 
 +
<i>O'Connell responded with a serious look on his face.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' I'm not here to stop you. Help me persuade Enzo. I know it's not too late to bring him back to who he was.
 +
 
 +
<i>Listening to his plea, Varracht shook his head.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Varracht:''' No, he and I no longer pursue the same dreams. I'm just going to live quietly from now on.
 +
 
 +
<i>Still smiling, Varracht said. Then the smile was gone, replaced by a grim look.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Varracht:''' Be careful. Enzo has changed. I don't know what happened to him, but he's not the man I used to know.
 +
 
 +
<i>With that being said, Varracht left quietly. O'Connell watched him leave with a heavy heart.
 +
 
 +
The Kartel radioman, who watched O'Connell let Varracht go, quickly radioed his superiors from a hidden corner.
 +
 
 +
Having received the radioman's report, Enzo pondered. He still needed The Company. The addition of Rangelus' Guerrillas had significantly strengthened the Kartel both qualitatively and quantitatively, but it still relied on The Company's fighting skills and information network. Cutting ties with O'Connell meant losing the Company, and worse, turning it into enemies. Unlike Varracht's followers who admired Varracht, but had no close relationship with him, the members of The Company were O'Connell's students and thus had a tighter bond with him. If O'Connell agreed with Varracht, then he was also an obstacle in the Kartel's way.
 +
 
 +
After much consideration, Enzo made an important decision,. He then summoned a company of Rangelus's guerrillas.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Enzo Sipo:''' Get rid of O'Connell. Tomorrow, he's visiting the village for an inspection. Ambush him in the desert on his way back.
 +
 
 +
<i>The next day, O'Connell was on his way back from his inspection on the village when he thought about the last thing Varracht said. But he couldn't give up on Enzo. He still wanted to believe that his leader wouldn't abandon his men.
 +
 
 +
"Why don't we take a break?" A student's voice brought him back to reality. They were in a hamlet near Kartel Headquarters. O'Connell nodded at his students and took a seat by the beacon mound in the hamlet. His students kept quiet, to give him time to clear his head.
 +
 
 +
After the short recess, they were about to resume their trip when the sound of many bikes and machines were heard. So many bikes in such a small village? O'Connell instantly became suspicious. He told his students to get ready for a fight. A group of bikes were coming at them. They looked like typical outlaws, but they moved organically like well-trained soldiers. O'Connell realized Enzo Sipo sent them to kill him. Regretting his misjudgment, he raised his gun.
 +
 
 +
The Kartel's mechanical weapons and land runners bombarded him and his students. We're going to die here, O'Connell thought. The two students who were next to him said, as they were shooting at converging enemies, "Master, we'll stay. Please keep the others alive." He wanted to tell them no, but then he saw the other students were struggling. He had no choice.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' I'm sorry...
 +
 
 +
<i>O'Connell started running toward where the other members of The Company were. He thought, My students are good. They can stay alive until I get back here with the others. Without looking back, he ran. No one followed him, probably his students were doing a good job stopping them. The few minutes he ran felt like eternity.
 +
 
 +
Just when he thought he couldn't run anymore, his students came into sight. "Master! Are you okay?" He told them to go help the two students in the hamlet. They look off in a hurry. A short time later they returned, looking grim.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' "Where are those two?
 +
 
 +
<i>O'Connell asked. "By the time we got there, they were already..." They couldn't continue. He felt as if the sky caved in on him. He lost two students, and it was his fault. Then it dawned on him that the Lawless District also wasn't the place for him and his students, and that there was nowhere else they could go in Empyrean. Where should they go now?
 +
 
 +
His mind swirled with many thoughts at once. Since there was no place for them in Empyrean, they had to find a new world... What about the world below the sea? Suddenly he remembered a book that he read a long time ago.
 +
 
 +
It said there was a continent below the deep sea at the bottom of the oceans, and it was bigger than Empyrean. During Bakal's reign, most history books were burned, but the name of the continent, Arad, had survived. It's sotry was unbelievable, but there was proof of its existence. Other Empyreans might have thought it was just a myth, but O'Connell knew better. He saw some confidential documents about it when he was in Ghent. He made up his mind.
 +
 
 +
As soon as he returned to his base, he called every member of The Company. He had to make a move before Enzo Sipo attacked again. He told his students about the Arad Continent, and they agreed to go with him. They trusted their master and now that Enzo had turned his back on them, there was no place else they could go in Empyrean.
 +
 
 +
But how could they reach the bottom of the oceans? The Company had no idea. Every one of its members was a great fighter, but none of them was knowledgeable in machinery or transportations. After a while, O'Connell's friend and a unit leader, Schmitt, suggested, "Doctor Gizel is making some kind of machine to stop the Imperial Army from attacking from under the sea. Maybe we should offer him our help to test it." O'Connell stared at Schmitt with a smile.</i>
 +
</small>
 +
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 +
{{HiddenTextStart|
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|Title=The Wind Blowing upon the Lawless District: Chapter 3
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|Width=600
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|Show=none
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}}
 +
<small>
 +
<i>The members of The Company arrived at Gizel's lab without coming in contact with too many Kartel members. The Kartel guards at the entrace to the lab stopped them, but when they realized it was the Company, they let them pass. Given the number of guards at the entrance, O'Connell could tell Doctor Gizel was on a very important project. He approached Gizel. The Doctor noticed his presence and turned toward him. Even though he couldn't see them well, the machines that were being tested in the back of the lab looked impressive, even to the eyes of a mechanical layman like O'Connell.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Gizel:''' O'Connell. I didn't know you were coming. What brings you?
 +
 
 +
<i>Gizel was curious. The Company, Enzo's vanguard group of soldiers, came all the way to the rear line to visit his lab.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' I came because I heard you were studying how to prevent the Imperial Army from attacking us from behind through the sea.
 +
 
 +
<i>O'Connell carried on nonchalantly.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' We'll be the first ones to take the hit if the Imperial Army strikes. We want to know what kind of protection we'll be provided with.
 +
 
 +
<i>Doctor Gizel nodded in agreement, but the suspicion on his face remained.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Gizel:''' I understand. I just don't know why Enzo didn't tell me you were coming. Anyway, alright. This thing here is called an air-cushion vehicle, also known as a hovercraft. I've modified it so it could go under water. I'm thinking we can use them to attack the Imperial Army from underwater while it's on the sea.
 +
 
 +
<i>His explanation sounded simple, but O'Connell had no doubt that the machine itself was extremely complicated. There was a reason he was a member of the Seven Shards. Admiringly, O'Connell spoke to the Doctor.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' That sounds great. I say you let us test-drive the thing, so we know what to do with it when we fight.
 +
 
 +
<i>Doctor Gizel thought for a while, and then spoke.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Gizel:''' Alright, but it's going to take a few days to finish it. In the meantime, I want you to help me.
 +
 
 +
<i>The Company didn't have time, but it had no choice. O'Connell nodded. After that, The Company started helping around Doctor Gizel's lab. The Doctor put it on simple tasks, organizing items in the lab, moving parts, or scouting the perimeter of the lab. After a while, O'Connell became suspicious of the Doctor's intention. He had a feeling that Gizel was stalling. He asked some students to gather information about the hovercraft and the rest to continue to do as the Doctor said.
 +
 
 +
The information his students brought to him proved his suspicion. "Master, Doctor Gizel is aware of our defection. He's trying to stall us until more reinforcements from the Kartel arrive. The hovercraft is already completed." O'Connell's face hardened as he listened to the student's report. They were running out of time. If they fought the Kartel's reinforcements, they could be outnumbered and wiped out before they had a chance to escape.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' What's their ETA?
 +
 
 +
<i>Two days from now, in the evening.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' Our window of opportunity is pretty small.
 +
 
 +
<i>"Tell us what to do." O'Connell answered firmly.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' Tomorrow, we'll get ready to evacuate. Schmitt, take some men and get the parachutes ready. Say that you're going to scout around the lab. Everyone else will continue to do as Gizel says. The day after tomorrow, we all will go out to scout the perimeter and steal the hovercraft, heading for Underworld.
 +
 
 +
<i>The next day, O'Connell's students prepared to escape without alerting Gizel, just as their master asked. Some went out to procure parachutes, using a perimeter patrol as an excuse. The rest continued to do chores for Gizel to keep him reassured. In his quarters. O'Connell pondered. Even though he acted strong in front of his students, he was worried.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' According to the documents I saw, that continent is not a myth. But can this hovercraft take us there? What if it fails?
 +
 
 +
<i>"Master, everything's ready." The student's voice brought him back to reality. Night had fallen already. "Okay, got it." The only thing left to do was fool Gizel. "I'll be back."
 +
 
 +
It was dark, but Gizel was still in his lab, researching. O'Connell's voice broke his concentration.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' Doctor Gizel, I'm going to take The Company out tomorrow to train and patrol the area.
 +
 
 +
'''Gizel:''' You already patrolled this area more times than necessary. And if you want to train, you can always train here.
 +
 
 +
<i>O'Connell was prepared for this situation.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' Sure, but we don't train out in the open. Our combat style is shared only among the teachers and students.
 +
 
 +
'''Gizel:''' I guess. I remember hearing your group is peculiar like that. Alright, do as you want.
 +
 
 +
<i>Gizel said uninterestingly, and then went right back to work. O'Connell stared at him for a moment and left quietly. Watching him leave from the corner of his eye, Gizel mumbled.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Gizel:''' As if I'm stupid enough to believe such a sloppy lie.
 +
 
 +
<i>He then called a soldier.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Gizel:''' Remove the air tanks in the hovercraft tomorrow morning. And have our troops wait on the sea around the hovercraft.
 +
 
 +
<i>The next day, The Company left the lab. When they were safely out of the guards' field of vision, O'Connell asked his students to stop moving.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' Now, let's turn around and head for the hovercraft. Hurry.
 +
 
 +
<i>The hovercraft was anchored at a temporary freight dock connected to a cliff by a metal bridge. Fortunately, no Kartel soldiers were around there.</i>
 +
 
 +
"Start the machine now!" O'Connell ordered his students and started preparing to take off.
 +
 
 +
'''Gizel:''' Where are you taking my machine?
 +
 
 +
<i>Gizel's voice sent chills down O'Connell's back.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''Gizel:''' You can't fool geniuses like me. Guys, get them out of my machine!
 +
 
 +
<i>Kartel soldiers came surging. "Is it running yet?" asked O'Connell in a desperate tone. "Master, it's going to take a while to charge this thing before we can turn it on." O'Connell asked other students to charged the machine.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' Alright, then we need to stall them for the time being. Stop them!
 +
 
 +
<i>He started firing his gun at the Kartel soldiers. Doctor Gizel urged his soldiers to attack, and when several of them went down, he came at The Company himself, riding a mech. "Leave my machine alone!" "Master, it's charged. Get on!" His students shouted at him as Gizel charged.
 +
 
 +
O'Connell hurriedly finished the Kartel soldiers he was fighting, and then got on on the hovercraft with his students. "Submerge now!" With his order, the hovercraft submerged into the sea. Doctor Gizel stopped his soldiers from going after them. "They don't have enough oxygen. They'll die soon enough. Just wait here." Gizel looked out to sea, picturing the members of The Company dying from lack of oxygen in the water.
 +
 
 +
While going deeper into the sea, O'Connell thought to himself. Now that they were underwater, they were safe from the Kartels. But his sense of relief didn't last long. His uncertainty about reaching the Underworld safely bubbled up again. Outside the hovercraft was filled with darkness as it continued to go down in the sea. Only the bubbles that rose sometimes showed that they were underwater. "Master, we're almost out of oxygen." O'Connell told the student to remain calm because they were almost at their destination.
 +
 
 +
But he wasn't sure if he was right. How much longer do we have to go? Is the story about the continent real? What if... we die before we get there? O'Connell was lost in thought when his students shouted excitingly, "Master! Master! I see a light coming from below!" Finally, his expression softened. "The gods didn't forsake us. Get the parachutes ready!"
 +
 
 +
While his students prepared the parachutes, the light in front of the hovercraft became brighter and brighter. SPLASH! The hovercraft shot out of the water with a slashing noise. They were falling from the sky. They made it! O'Connell was excited. "This must be the mythical Underworld," said his students excitedly as they unfolded their parachutes, getting ready to plunge into the new continent beneath them.</i>
 +
 
 +
'''O'Connell:''' Yes. This is our new beginning!
 +
</small>
 +
{{HiddenTextEnd}}
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
===A Heroine===
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="background-color: #aaaaaa; text-align:center;"
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!style="background-color: #CEF6E3;" |Chapter(s)
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|-style="background-color: #ffffff;" align="center"
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|[[File:A Heroine Cover.png]] || valign="top"|
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{{HiddenTextStart|
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|Title=A Heroine
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|Width=600
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|}
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===Seclusion===
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="background-color: #aaaaaa; text-align:center;"
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!style="background-color: #CEF6E3;" |Cover
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!style="background-color: #CEF6E3;" |Chapter(s)
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|-style="background-color: #ffffff;" align="center"
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|[[File:Seclusion Cover.png]] || valign="top"|
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{{HiddenTextStart|
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Latest revision as of 05:50, 25 June 2021

Storybooks are Use items that are acquired from dungeons that explain lore not shown in Epic Quests. Each Storybook contains 1 to 5 chapters. Upon using the item, the player receives a side quest, and at the end receives reward gold and experience at chapter completion. After completion, players can re-read the Storybook again on all account characters through the Storybook tab in the Use Item Inventory.

Storybook items can be found from every dungeon's boss, but there are some exceptions. They cannot be found in Mt. Kulun, Forgotten Land, Suju Arena, Special Quest Dungeons, Event Dungeons, and the Valley of Fallen Souls. However, in scenario and adventure mode dungeons, storybooks will not drop if the boss monster is a normal dungeon's named monster.

There are different grades of storybooks ranging from Rare and Unique to Legendary. Rare and Unique storybooks are Account Bound whereas Legendary storybooks are tradeable. Storybooks also have an 2 week expiration date after acquisition.

Note: Storybooks have a level requirement dictating their reward gold and experience. If the player uses a Storybook and is underleveled, it will stay in their Unfinished Quest tab.

Note: If you delete character which started a storybook quest but did not complete it, each chapter of the storybook that the character had in progress will be reset.

Storybooks

Blue Guardian

Cover Chapter(s)
Blue Guardian Cover.png
Blue Guardian

Wingless Angel

Cover Chapter(s)
Wingless Angel Cover 1.png
Wingless Angel: Chapter 1
Wingless Angel: Chapter 2

Way of the Priest

Cover Chapter(s)
Way of the Priest Cover.png
Way of the Priest

Great Adventurer Karakas

Cover Chapter(s)
Great Adventurer Karakas Cover.png
Great Adventurer Karakas: Chapter 1
Great Adventurer Karakas: Chapter 2
Great Adventurer Karakas: Chapter 3

Broad and Shallow Knowledge for Refined Aradians

Cover Chapter(s)
Broad and Shallow Knowledge for Refined Aradians Cover.png
Broad and Shallow Knowledge for Refined Aradians: Chapter 1
Broad and Shallow Knowledge for Refined Aradians: Chapter 2
Broad and Shallow Knowledge for Refined Aradians: Chapter 3
Broad and Shallow Knowledge for Refined Aradians: Chapter 4
Broad and Shallow Knowledge for Refined Aradians: Chapter 5

Alchemist's Friend

Cover Chapter(s)
Alchemist's Friend Cover.png
Alchemist's Friend

Low Ranking Knight Training Journal

Cover Chapter(s)
Low Ranking Knight Training Journal Cover.png
Low Ranking Knight Training Journal: Chapter 1
Low Ranking Knight Training Journal: Chapter 2
Low Ranking Knight Training Journal: Chapter 3

The Wind Blowing upon Empyrean

Cover Chapter(s)
The Wind Blowing upon Empyrean Cover.png
The Wind Blowing upon Empyrean: Chapter 1
The Wind Blowing upon Empyrean: Chapter 2
The Wind Blowing upon Empyrean: Chapter 3
The Wind Blowing upon Empyrean: Chapter 4

Hidden Bomb: The Cyphers

Cover Chapter(s)
Hidden Bomb- The Cyphers Cover.png
Hidden Bomb: The Cyphers

Children of Chain Peace

Cover Chapter(s)
Children of Chain Peace Cover.png
Children of Chain Peace: Chapter 1
Children of Chain Peace: Chapter 2
Children of Chain Peace: Chapter 3
Children of Chain Peace: Chapter 4
Children of Chain Peace: Chapter 5

Happy Magic Classroom

Cover Chapter(s)
Happy Magic Classroom Cover.png
Happy Magic Classroom

Last Heir of the Ulus

Cover Chapter(s)
Last Heir of the Ulus Cover.png
Last Heir of the Ulus

Old Friend

Cover Chapter(s)
Old Friend Cover.png
Old Friend
Old Friend (Season 3)

Talking about Kartel

Cover Chapter(s)
Talking about Kartel Cover.png
Talking about Kartel: Chapter 1
Talking about Kartel: Chapter 2
Talking about Kartel: Chapter 3

Young Imperial Knight

Cover Chapter(s)
Young Imperial Knight Cover.png
Young Imperial Knight: Chapter 1
Young Imperial Knight: Chapter 2
Young Imperial Knight: Chapter 3
Young Imperial Knight: Chapter 4

Forest of No Return

Cover Chapter(s)
Forest of No Return Cover.png
Forest of No Return

Black Crusade Report

Cover Chapter(s)
Black Crusade Report Cover.png
Black Crusade Report

Taybers's Light

Cover Chapter(s)
Taybers's Light Cover.png
Taybers's Light

Unexpressed Sadness

Cover Chapter(s)
Unexpressed Sadness Cover.png
Unexpressed Sadness
Unexpressed Sadness (Season 3)

New Genesis

Cover Chapter(s)
New Genesis Cover.png
New Genesis

Red Sin

Cover Chapter(s)
Red Sin Cover.png
Red Sin: Chapter 1
Red Sin: Chapter 2
Red Sin: Chapter 3

Mischievous Homunculus

Cover Chapter(s)
Mischievous Homunculus Cover.png
Mischievous Homunculus

Interlude: Noblesky

Cover Chapter(s)
Interlude Noblesky.png
Interlude: Noblesky 1
Interlude: Noblesky 2
Interlude: Noblesky 3

The Wind Blowing upon the Lawless District

Cover Chapter(s)
Locked Storybook.png
The Wind Blowing upon the Lawless District: Chapter 1
The Wind Blowing upon the Lawless District: Chapter 2
The Wind Blowing upon the Lawless District: Chapter 3

A Heroine

Cover Chapter(s)
A Heroine Cover.png
A Heroine

Seclusion

Cover Chapter(s)
Seclusion Cover.png
Seclusion: Chapter 1
Seclusion: Chapter 2
Seclusion: Chapter 3
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