Overview: Final Fantasy XV takes place in the world of Lucastia, a world where there is an uneasy peace.

For the past few hundred years, the worlds technological growth has been driven by magical energy found within the earth, remnants left over from a great civilization that died out thousands of years ago in a great war. The remnants take the form of pieces of crystal known as Essence, mined from the earth in great quarries or deep caves. As technology grows, more ways are discovered to mine the Essence crystals, providing more and more of it for the energy needs of the people. As of the start of the game, the people of Lucastia have reached a level of technology that in some aspects resembles the beginning of the 20th century but in others resembles our own time, creating a mix of technology fueled by this magical energy. Great deposits of Essence are being found, while two massive and powerful countries, Goza in the west and Kunara in the east, are growing increasingly antagonistic toward one another. Surrounding Goza and Kunara are various independent territories with their own stances on the growing conflict. Unlike in previous Final Fantasy games, there is no overreaching empire or oppressive regime. Goza and Kunara, while increasingly ambitious, are relatively free countries whose people are for the most part happy, though within both factions there are unscrupulous individuals who would do anything to gain more power. Battle System/Leveling Up: Final Fantasy XV hearkens back to the old-school type of Final Fantasy battle systems, using ATB and allowing players to control all three party members. There are eight total party members in all, though only three can be used at once in a battle. You may not substitute characters in mid battle, and if your active party dies entirely, its game over. However, characters not involved in a battle will gain half XP and AP, this will allow characters to stay somewhat caught up in levels but still necessitates mixing it up once in a while. Characters can move around actively around the battlefield, and a player has the option of moving a character back and forth manually, which might help to dodge or lessen the effect of an enemy attack. A player can choose to control one character while having the other two act automatically, which allows for easier movement, or can allow the game to position all three characters when their turn is not up, as characters will naturally move to dodge attacks and strike the enemy. For out of range enemies such as birds, flying machines, etc., characters can leap and strike at them if necessary, but accuracy will be reduced. The ATB charge slows down while characters are moving back and forth. A character can choose to attack, use magic, use items, defend, or perform a special move (which varies from character to character, though some specials can be used by many different characters), these specials can include classic Final Fantasy moves such as Steal or Throw, others are new and unique to the game. Leveling up is done through gaining experience points, enemies give experience and for the first time since Final Fantasy X, they drop gil. Characters level up normally, and characters gain stats and abilities as they level up. There is a character progression system in tandem with experience points and levels known as the Affinity System. All characters have a unique branching affinity path that corresponds to a characters class. More physicallyinclined characters can gain more HP, Attack points, and weapon abilities, while more

magically-inclined characters will gain more MP, Intelligence points, and spells. In a way, its reminiscent of the Sphere grid in Final Fantasy X, though each character has their own unique growth tree. Progress along the Affinity tree is governed by Affinity points, AP, dropped by enemies along with experience and gil. Through the affinity tree, characters are guided on progression paths unique to their character. However, players have the option of taking different paths along the tree, corresponding to different character growth types. Magical characters can be guided along a more warrior-intensive path, though these diversions will take more AP to earn. Occasionally, you can also find or earn Affinity Marks. These marks will open up specific nodes on the Affinity tree without having to spend AP on it or be at that point in the path, these will allow characters to gain certain unique, important abilities while the player is given the liberty of choosing a path for that character. At any time, you may go back along the affinity path, half the AP you spent is returned for each node that you deactivate. On a New Game + (which opens up after the main quest is beaten), you may customize all characters growth paths, allowing, for example, to have a complete party of warriors or mages. Characters: Blitz Alderreth Male (Age 19) Specialty: Warrior (weapon: swords/greatswords) English Voice: Crawford Wilson Blitz Alderreth is a strong-willed but generally friendly young man working for the Southern Expanse Essence Company as an essence miner. He also occasionally helps to clear the monsters that show up as miners explore the quarries. He likes his job as it helps him to provide for his family back home in Gale (a city to the west in a territory pressured by the threat of Gozan annexation) but has grown somewhat bored with his life and yearns to find something more. He also harbers a crush on his supervisor, Melana. He does NOT want her to know this. Hark Lournen Male (Age 18) Specialty: Thief (weapon: dagger) English Voice: Johnny Yong Bosch Hark Lournen is Blitzs best friend, a very excitable young man who met up with Blitz a year before the events of the game, the two have been pretty much inseparable since. Even though Hark is more excitable and nave than Blitz, hes also somewhat nervous and so is a bit uneasy at a lot of the risks Blitz takes when dealing with the monsters. Hes incredibly quick on his feet, sometimes stealing chow from Melanas office (at which hes earned her ire many a time), its established that he does this because Blitz pressures him into it. Melana de Norte

Female (Age 20) Specialty: Mage Knight (weapon: swords/rapiers, can use some of the swords Blitz uses but others she cant) English Voice: Olivia Olson Melana is Blitz and Harks supervisor at the SEEC. Incredibly smart but also a nononsense woman not afraid to work her employees extremely fiercely, she has a hidden soft side that comes out during emotional moments. She also has a finely tuned sense of right and wrong, sharing this with Blitz (though she can sometimes be reluctant to take many of the risks Blitz does). Melana is an orphan, and she had to work hard from when she was five to now, rising to a high position in the SEEC despite her young age. As the adventure begins to take shape, she takes charge within the party as well. Ophi Claris Female (Age 18) Specialty: Witch/Red Mage (general magic user) (Rapiers and crossbows) English Voice: Ariana Grande Ophi lives in the sewers under the city of Kastith. The vast society under the sewers is full of people and Ophi is one of the caretakers of those people, though she spends most of her time on the surface, honing her magic and dreaming of the day she can help her people gain prosperity and emerge from the sewers to the surface of the city. She too is orphaned but her grandparents are alive, her grandmother is the one who taught Ophi her first spells. She joins the party and eventually takes a liking to Hark, drawn to his spirited and kind personality. Shes somewhat hyper, but knows when to tone it down when things get serious (shes the Selphie/Eiko/Rikku/Penelo/Vanille-type of this game) Gulrock Griffin Male (Age 37) Specialty: Defender/Knight (greatswords/axes) English Voice: Beau Billingslea Gulrock hails from Goza, particularly the city of Cliffpeak, high up on a mountain overlooking the worlds largest essence quarry. Gulrock is the leader of the Goza Advance Corps, a group of soldiers who patrol the border with Kunara, looking for any sign of trouble (and occasionally starting trouble). Gulrock joins the group after the raid by a group of Kunarian troops that leaves the quarry in ruins. He is joined by his wife Lucilla, who he loves dearly, one because she can cook, and two because shes the only person who ever beat him in a fight. Hes a big tough guy but hes always ready to make a joke and hes loyal and protective to his closest friends. Lucilla Griffin (nee Estave) Female (Age 32) Specialty: Valkyrie/Cook/Blue Mage (think Quina with brains and a spear) English Voice: Mary Elizabeth McGlynn

Gulrocks wife and a strong-hearted woman, Lucilla is for the most part a homebody, but when adventure calls, she grabs her spear and charges in with a fury that even surpasses her husbands. Lucilla has a unique gift for analysis and never falls for the same trick twice, shes picked up a number of enemy skills along the way and is the partys resident monster expert. She insists on joining with Gulrock and she soon becomes a mother-like figure to the group, though this clashes with Melanas mother-like insticts, leading to some fights between the two of them. Artemis Page Male (Age 24) Specialty: Summoner/Black Mage (guns and maces) English Voice: Nolan North An outcast from the Kunara Academy of Magic, Artemis has a lot of baggage when he joins up at the party, and they (especially Blitz) are concerned with Artemis desire for revenge on his former master, Zukan (of course, the party later discovers that Artemis objections to Zukans methods are well-founded, but they dont find this out until significantly later). Artemis views his gift, as one of the planets few summoners, as a terrible curse, though he later grows to embrace it when he realizes his powers are needed to help save the world. Sanathri Elezara Female (Age ???, later revealed to be 900) Specialty: Alchemist (staves/maces/measures) English Voice: Jennifer Darling Sanathri is a little old lady who lives in an isolated hut in the Kunaran northern wastelands. Shes terribly eccentric but later comes to be a valuable ally of the team, gifted with the ability to mix and match various items. Shes a bit of a dirty old bird, flirting with Blitz and Hark from time to time (the latter to Ophis annoyance), we later find out that she accidentally cursed herself with immortality from a botched potion and even though shes come to enjoy life immensely, she still wishes to be afforded the sweet rest that death provides. English Voice Cast: Blitz: Crawford Wilson Melana: Olivia Olson Hark: Johnny Yong Bosch Ophi: Ariana Grande Gulrock: Beau Billingslea Lucilla: Mary Elizabeth McGlynn Artemis: Nolan North Sanathri: Jennifer Darling Krynia: Katee Sackhoff Cid: Paul Eiding

Alexia: Jennifer Hale Connor: Jesse McCartney President Bartelan: Matt McKenzie General Karst: Wade Williams Zandakier: Kari Wahlgren Vignus: Michael Bell Zukan: Dave Wittenberg Oban: Charles Martinet Opala: Julia Fletcher Luna: Lia Sargent Ban: Yuri Lowenthal Kavil: Michael Reisz Dynal: Crispin Freeman Gelna: Yuri Lowenthal Vheri: Greg Cipes Feyes: James Patrick Stuart Mashi (Moogle Queen): Danielle Morrow Epto (Blitzs father): Richard Epcar Neli (Blitzs mother): Mari Devon Haden (Harks father): Matt McKenzie Rubidia: Wendee Lee Cherubim: Max Burkholder Summons: Tier 1 (Ramuh, Ifrit, Shiva, Mist) Tier 2 (Titan, Carbuncle, Aeolus, Lumin) Tier 3 (Leviathan, Alexander, Bahamut, Zeromus) Tier 4 (Lucifer, Eden, Phaedra, Gilgamesh) Soundtrack: Disc One 1. Prelude 2. Main Theme of Final Fantasy 3. The Great War 4. Essence of Adventure Blitz's Theme 5. Determined Heart Melana's Theme 6. The Quarry 7. The Bureaucrats 8. Rocky Top 9. Clashing Swords (enemy theme) 10. Victory Fanfare 11. High Alert 12. Facing The Enemy (boss theme)

13. Stealing The Sun Hark's Theme 14. Sleepy Summers 15. Glistening Grass Overworld Theme 16. Serene Depths 17. Bustling Burg 18. A Machination 19. Her Delicate Touch 20. Under The Starlit Glow 21. In The Driver's Seat 22. The Desert Sands 23. The Collector 24. The Island City, Kastith 25. Soft-Spoken Sorceress Ophi's Theme 26. Underworld Town 27. Underworld Crawling 28. Up And Down We Go Disc Two 1. Home By The Sea 2. Across The Ocean 3. Creeping Castle 4. Little Lost One Luna's Theme 5. A Vision Of The Past 6. The Schemers 7. Spies Like Them 8. The Communication Tower 9. Mechanized Monster 10. The Marsh 11. Carefree Cliffs 12. Fists of Stone Gulrock's Theme 13. Tender Strength Lucilla's Theme 14. Infiltrator Alexia's Theme 15. Capital Of The West, Centralia 16. Strength Of Steel 17. The Chocobo Riders 18. Mellow Chocobo 19. Essence Of Elegance Krynia's Theme 20. Home Again 21. Visions Of A Child 22. The Fortress Dreia 23. The Lost Celestriad 24. The Mightiest Foes (boss theme #2- Tritoch, Excavator, Dynal on the Ophi rescue mission, second Garuda, Karst and Warmech) 25. Icebound 26. The Capital Of Snow, Elinal

Disc Three 1. 2. 3. 4. Magical Might Savage Sorceror Zukan's Theme Shrouded Eyes Artemis' Theme The Great Guardians (boss theme #3- Titan, Aeolus, Leviathan, Bahamut, plus the bonus guardians) 5. The Academy Of Magic 6. Occupied Melana 7. The Crystal Caves 8. Bullheaded Cid's Theme 9. Conflicted Agenda 10. You Can Never Go Home Again 11. Frozen Desolation 12. The Curious Immortal Sanathri's Theme 13. The Forested Field 14. Entwining Hearts 15. Sailing 16. Sylvid Castle 17. Darkest Science 18. Breaking Point 19. To The Skies 20. Earthern Heat 21. The Loner Gelna's Theme 22. Village Of The Moogles 23. Sacred Forest 24. Unstoppable Force Karst's Theme 25. Submersible 26. The Underwater City 27. Celestriad United 28. Palace Of Administration 29. Vignus Victus 30. Krynia Rising Disc Four 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Shining From Far Away The End Of The World Lonely Quarry A Secret Order Tower of Thieves The Clan Estave A Wedding Absolute Elegance Seeking Salvation

10. Artemis Unbound 11. The Karstfleet 12. The Battle Is Joined 13. Sacrificing Friends 14. The Last Hope Of Humanity 15. A Desperate Plea 16. Sending Our Light 17. Celestial Palace 18. The Sylvidians 19. Little Light Found 20. Queen Of The World 21. The Celestial Dragons 22. For All Eternity 23. Catch A Falling Star 24. The World Renewed 25. Shining From Far Away (orchestrated) + Theme Of Final Fantasy Main Storyline: The opening cutscene of the game depicts a great battle between powerful magic wielders, each side backed up with powerful technological weapons, including great machines resembling tanks and enormous siege towers atop which soldiers use massive cannons to shoot lightning down below. There is a group of young people who are discussing the battle while dodging the lightning being fired from above. One of them mentions a powerful magical artifact, that if found, will end the war. Another begins to speak but is suddenly struck down and killed by a shot from the lightning cannon. The others turn and there is a girl who lets out a loud, mournful scream, she is hit with a spray of bullets across the leg and she falls. One of the young men clenches his fists in rage and we see him start to use a spell. Another young man, apparently very close friends with the one charging the spell, begs him not to use Ultima here, not while everyone is so close together. He says its the only way to make sure the other side doesnt get the artifact, and as his companion screams, a wave of energy rushes out from the spellcaster. It slams into the screaming, fleeing boy, vaporizing his body. The scene of battle slowly fades and then its that same battlefield, many hundreds of years later. A pickaxe is slammed down on the exact spot where the spell was cast. There is a glistening shard in the ground, a hand reaches down to pick it up. Its Blitz, who examines the shard and smiles. There is a scene where Blitzs friend Hark goes over to him, examines the shard and expresses disappointment with not finding anything yet that day. The two friends engage some encouraging words before a beautiful woman standing nearby pipes up. Melana: Hey, you lazy bastards! Move your asses, youre not being paid to talk! Hark: Uh sorry, Melana. Blitz: Hey, I found a big shard, just now! Doesnt that buy us a couple minutes to talk? Melana: No, it buys you a reprieve from getting my foot up your asses! Now keep pounding those rocks, before I*A whistle sounds, Melana looks up before letting out a sigh.*

Melana: Guess your shifts over. Outta my sight, both of you. *Melana walks away while the various workers begin heading over to the administrative building to punch out. Blitz is smiling while he and Hark head back with the crowd.* Hark: She sure is swearing a lot today. Blitz: Yeah, but shes cute when she swears. Hark: *groans* You think shes cute when she does anything! Blitz: Well, its the truth! Hark: You know youve got no chance with her, she yells at you more than she does anyone else. Blitz: That means Ive got the best chance with her! Dont you know how married couples fight? Hark: okay, two things. One, itd be completely against company policy for her and you to date. Second, she doesnt want to have anything to do with you! Youve got it bad, Blitz. Blitz: I know After the opening cutscene concludes, and a brief scene afterwards in which Melana gives you your pay (1500 gil!), youre free to explore. SEEC QuarryThe quarry is a rather large, expansive area, almost like a large town. Speaking of town, the way TO the nearby down is visible (just keep going south a few screens), but blocked off by quarry personnel, who tell you that company policy is that you can only visit town on weekends. Still, you can visit the various establishments set up for workers, including the company store, the bar, and the barracks to talk to your fellow workers. Theres a treasure chest in the barracks, open it up to get two potions. At the company store, you can buy your first equipment. Talk to the weapons seller, hell remind you that because of a monster infestation, most of the quarry is inaccessible, and hell also warn you not to use your weapons to try and kill the monsters. Here you have a choice to make. You can upgrade your equipment or spend money on items such as healing potions. What I would recommend is that you upgrade both characters weapons (for 550 gil), buy Reinforced Work Clothes for both characters (500 gil), and with the 450 gil you have left over, buy some cure potions and a Phoenix Down. Eventually, youll want to head to the administration office, where a brief dialogue will play out between Melana and the administrator of the quarry. Melana is getting increasingly frustrated that the soldiers the quarry hired to kill the monsters have yet to show up, and business is suffering. Blitz and Hark go outside after hearing the discussion, and there is another scene where Blitz wants to go and kill the monsters. Hark protests, and there is a quick dialogue including this exchange: Hark: You heard what the boss said, were not allowed to try and fight the monsters ourselves! Well get fired! or killed! Or killed, then fired! The company wouldnt even pay for our funerals! Blitz: I dont think theyd pay for our funerals anyway. Hark: They might chip in a little! Blitz, we cant do this!

Of course Hark eventually relents, and you can now head up to the northern part of the quarry. A cutscene plays out where Blitz creates a distraction for the guards, and you can now head into the monster-infested northern area. SEEC Quarry, NorthHere, youll fight your first monster encounters of the game. A brief series of tutorial battles will play out on the first screen, introducing you to combat basics (you can skip them if you like, Final Fantasy veterans will find nothing new here, though you may want to watch the tutorial on Harks Steal command, as it involves an active time event to help your stealing success and if you land the command just perfectly, you can even do some damage, though not as much as with a normal attack). The enemies here are pretty easy and youll gain your first two levels pretty quickly. There arent too many treasures to be found here. You can also take some of the Gil you earn killing monsters back to the company store to finish buying equipment for Blitz and Hark, however, if you intend to do this, do NOT go past the second screen. Once you reach the third screen, a cutscene will play out as Melana has followed you and is livid that youve disobeyed her orders. Eventually, Blitz and Hark manage to convince her to come with them to slay the monsters in the quarry, and Melana joins your party. She joins at level 2 and is pretty strong already, her rapier doing slightly more than Blitz or Harks weapons. She also has magic, though Blitz and Hark might have some as well (you can pick up basic cure and attack spells for both of them via a small diversion in their affinity paths, I would actually recommend it, though Harks Quake spell should not be used on the boss). Once you pick up Melana, spend some time leveling up if you want, or just head right to the boss. The boss is very beatable on your initial levels, though Id recommend leveling all three party members to a minimum of 3, and possibly to 5, before engaging the boss. Finally, after reaching the very bottom of the quarry, youll hear a massive roar, and a large rock monster will come charging toward you. Blitz: So thats the thing in charge of the monsters here! Hark: Oh man, I knew it was a mistake to come down here! Melana: You think? Blitz: I know that thing looks scary, but weve come this far! Melana: *her expression gives the slightest hint of admiration* Right. Everyone, get ready! BOSS: Quarrite (HP: 3,500) This guy can be quite nasty if youre not careful, but if you leveled up enough and you dont do anything stupid, this should be an easy fight. Quarrites basic physical attack does anywhere from 20-40 damage, he can also cast Quake. On one party member itll do a bit more than his physical attack, if he uses it on the whole party itll hit everyone for 520, not too troublesome. Theres also a stomp attack that can do around 50, and finally his most dangerous attack is the Stone Sweep, an arm sweep attack to the whole party (which can be dodged by one party member if you need to), it does anywhere from 20-40

to all party members. Youll want to keep everyones HP above 60, shouldnt be too hard if you leveled, if you didnt youll need to use Cure frequently. Melanas Aero spell will hit for around 300 damage (exploiting the boss weakness) and will be your main method of attack. If you upgraded Blitzs weapon, hell do around 100 with every swipe, meaning Quarrite should go down in anywhere from 10-15 turns depending on how much you need to heal. Be sure to have Hark steal from Quarrite, he has an Adamantite which can be used to make a great weapon for Blitz later on. Once Quarrite goes down, a cutscene will play out showing the monsters of the quarry dispersing. Melana will grudging congratulate Blitz and Hark, adding that theyd have been killed if she hadnt shown up. Youll automatically return to the administration office, where Melana will tell Blitz and Hark to go wait in the barracks while she discusses things with her superior. She gives you the next day off and permission to visit the nearby town of Sobura. Melana: And both of you better pray that you dont have EVERY day off next week. Head south past where the guards stopped you before, youll go on a brief path where there are enemies roaming, theyre no tougher (and in some cases are easier) than the ones in the quarry. A couple screens down and youll make it to Sobura. SoburaSobura is a sleepy little town with a basic general store, the store sells a couple of accessories (unlike the company store at the quarry), you may want to buy the AntiPoison Charm but other than that theres nothing here of note, mostly the same stuff available at the quarry. You can talk to a few people if youd like, theyll tell you some things about the surrounding area. A dust storms kicked up along the desert highway north of the quarry, while the cave to the east has become infested with monsters that are starting to spill out onto the side roads. You can advance the story by heading to Harks house (the small house in the southern part of the village). Harks father lives there, his mother died when he was young. Hark is glad to see his father and he tells him about the monsters at the quarry, Harks father is worried that his son was in danger but is proud of him for standing up to the monsters. Hark wants to sleep at his house, you can agree to do so or decline and explore the village some more. You cant leave the village (except to go back up to the quarry), so its a good idea to just get some rest. The next day, head back up to the administration office. Melana is waiting for you. SEEC QuarryMelana explains that her supervisor was pleasantly surprised that the three of them were able to deal with the monsters so easily, and that he has come up with a way for Hark and Blitz to be more useful than they would be mining the quarry. He says that the administrator of the Veon Quarry to the east has been having some troubles of his own and that in lieu of hiring soldiers, hed like to see if the monster-hunting quarry workers can handle the problem. The three of them are to report to the city of Veon to meet with

the citys mayor. Melana tells Blitz and Hark that shes been appointed leader of their group and that they are to follow her instructions to the letter. Blitz, of course, seems excited about the new job, while Hark is worried about the dangers (but also somewhat excited himself, just nervous). The three of you then set out. You can depart via either the southern exit of Sobura, or an eastern exit of the quarry, past a long road. Either way, you end up And what do you know? Its an honest to god overworld map, the first in a Final Fantasy game since Final Fantasy IX! The level of detail, however, has changed monumentally, and you can see numerous effects, wildlife, detail in the landmarks, etc. as you walk about the overworld, with the option to rotate the camera for an overhead view or anything inbetween, once you get to a side view it almost stops being an overworld map. Anyway, once youre finished marveling, you can get to exploring. Theres not too much to do, you can head up north to the desert highway, but youre turned back by the duststorm, and if you try to explore further, Melana browbeats you. Were on rails for the moment in a lot of ways, it is the beginning of the game after all. The only real way to go is the cave to the east. You can wander about fighting some monsters, nothing really of note but you may want to get to level 5 if you havent already. Eastern Sobura CaveThe Eastern Sobule Cave is a fairly simple, straightforward area, though there are a couple of winding paths leading to some decent treasures (including the Hardened Blade for Blitz or Melana, Id give it to Blitz). The caves monsters are a step up from the stuff in the quarry, the Highwayman will even steal gil from you and attempt to flee. Of course, before all that occurs, youre treated to your second battle tutorial sessions on the very first screen, courtesy of Melana. Advanced Battle Tactics: Tempo/Stagger/Heightened Awareness Here you learn about tempo, allowing you to perform more damaging attacks and sometimes block your opponents. Heres how it works. In many ways similar to Final Fantasy X-2, you may time your characters attacks so that they occur in rapid succession, by waiting until all two or three of your characters ATB gauges are full, then triggering all their attacks quickly. Attack quickly enough and youll start to combo, gaining tempo which makes your attacks more powerful. The more you chain, the stronger your attacks will be. You can also try to stagger an opponent. Unlike in Final Fantasy XIII, stagger has nothing to do with lowering your opponents defenses. Instead, you can try to time your strikes in tune with the enemys attacks. Trigger your attack at just the right time and you may just block an opponents attack completely, or significantly weaken it. Some attacks, however, cant be blocked or weakened. Every time you perform a tempo or a stagger, your Awareness meter builds. Charge it completely and you enter a state of Heightened Awareness. You can immediately perform a Full-Force Attack (i.e., your characters limit break), or you can instead perform a normal attack or a spell. Every time you use an attack while in Heightened Awareness, it gets more and more powerful. You can also stagger while in Heightened

Awareness and it will have a much greater chance of stopping an enemys attack. However, there is a catch. With every action you perform in Heightened Awareness, you have a chance of exiting the state. The more actions you do, the greater the risk (there are accessories that mitigate the chances of this happening, though nothing that completely eliminates it, save for well, that will be explained later). If you take too many actions while in Heightened Awareness, you risk missing your chance to perform your FullForce Attack (and by the post-game, these attacks can do MILLIONS of HP in one shot). Its up to you to decide whether its worth the risk. Once youve watched (or skipped) the battle tutorial, you can explore the cave as normal. Theres no boss blocking your way, although your way IS being blocked by some kind of rock structure to the north of the main path, if you approach it, Melana takes note of it before the group continues on. Soon youll exit on the other side, just west of Veon. Like the Sobura area, there isnt too much here to do out here. The Veon Quarry is to the south but theres no entry as the guards tell you that thieves have made off with a big essence haul and that soldiers are being summoned to take care of the problem. You can head up north, where theres a soldier outpost being staffed by a few mercenaries and a lazy captain who tells you that he didnt come out to the southern territories to hunt down a few thieves and rabbits. That leaves only Veon as the only other location of note, and thats where youre headed next. VeonVeon isnt a BIG city per se, but its definitely larger than Sobura. As soon as you arrive, Melana goes to speak with the mayor, giving Blitz and Hawke free reign of the town. Youll want to hit up the weapon and armor shops pretty fast, you can buy a Hardened Blade for the person you didnt give the one you found to, and you can also upgrade everyones armor. The Brass Pendant at the accessory shop will increase someones maximum HP by 25, its a good accessory to buy if you need to fill everyones slots (everyone can equip up to two accessories) and have some extra cash. Take some time to talk to everyone as well, especially the group of kids playing over by the fountain, talking with them will allow you to trigger a bit of dialogue that will then allow you to advance the story by talking to Melana. You shouldnt miss the kids, as Hark makes a comment about them as you pass by. Theres a quick scene in which Hark says the kids remind him of himself but if they knew how dangerous adventures were, they wouldnt be so eager to go, Blitz just laughs and says that one day Hark will be glad he got out to see the world. Eventually, youll want to head up to the mayors mansion, where Melana gives you the lowdown on whats going on. Melana: The mayor says that workers at the quarry saw the thieves headed west, into the cave west of the city. Hark: The one we just came from? Blitz: I dont think we saw any thieves there Melana: They must be there since no ones seen anyone but us exiting the cave on either side. Blitz: So its back into the cave then? Cool, well show those thieves whos boss!

Melana will rejoin you and itll be time to head back into the cave. Eastern Sobura CaveMake your way to the center of the cave, where Melana noticed the strange rock structure earlier on. She comes to the conclusion that the structure was placed there artificially to block your path, and in a brief scene, she disperses the structure with a burst of magic, impressing Blitz and Hark. This opens up a new area of the cave. The only new monsters to speak of are the occasional thieves, other than that its pretty smooth sailing to the area where the leader of the thieves has holed up. After a quick scene, the leader, Pasaro, sends four of his best men after you. These are basically just slightly tougher versions of the Highwaymen from earlier, each has 500 HP and goes down pretty easily. Make sure you kill them one at a time instead of trying to take all four out at once, if you leave the four of them out there, their attacks (which do anywhere from 15-30 damage a piece) might start to add up. Once the four thieves are dealt with, Pasaro realizes hes cornered. Melana: End of the line. Surrender the Essence and come peacefully. Pasaro: Come peacefully? Who do you think you are, Veons guards? Blitz: Were adventurers! Melana: No, were not. Were employees of the Southern Expanse Essence Company and were here to take back company property. Now surrender or suffer. Pasaro: The only one whos gonna suffer here is you! *holds up the piece of Essence, it begins to glow* I can feel the magic coursing through my veins oh, this is a good one! Melana: Be careful, thats a powerful shard of Essence! Hark: Oh man. *readies his weapon* Pasaro: *charges the group* BOSS: Pasaro (2,721 HP) Pasaro will actually go down somewhat quicker than Quarrite. He has no resistances and less defense than the big rock beast, your basic attacks should do between 100-150 to him a shot. The biggest thing to watch out for from Pasaro is his Demi spell, it will knock off half the HP from one character. Fortunately, Pasaro doesnt have the strength to make Demi too terribly dangerous, just dont let anyones HP stay under 40 for too long. Also, be sure to have Hawk steal the Caper Knife, its his most powerful weapon up to this point (more powerful than what you could buy in Veon) and it adds +3 to his Agility. After Pasaro is defeated, Melana seems ready to kill him, though she sheathes her weapon at the last moment, instead taking him into custody. You automatically return to Veon, where Melana presents Pasaro to the mayor. The mayor congratulates the party for a job well done. After a brief scene, Melana says that its time to return to the western quarry and wait for another job to come up. Blitz seems disappointed that theyre not heading out again right away, but Melana tells him that there are only two quarries in this area of the world and theyre both pretty safe.

You can now return to the SEEC Quarry through the Eastern Sobura Cave. However, you may want to check out the Veon Quarry first, as its now open. The path leading to the quarry has some monsters on it, including the Cray Crabs, who are pretty easy and pretty good for grinding experience. Whatever you decide to do, youll want to go back to the SEEC Quarry and head to the barracks. Therell be a quick dialogue between Blitz and Hark, and then the two of them go to sleep. Youre quickly woken up by Melana, who seems unusually frantic as she runs into the room. She tells Blitz and Hark that an emergency call just came in from Veon, some kids ran into the Veon Quarry and a huge sinkhole opened up, the kids fell inside and dozens of monsters poured out. The workers at the quarry can barely hold back the monsters, leaving none available to mount a rescue mission into the sinkhole to rescue the kids. Thats of course where you come in. Blitz and Hark agree to the mission immediately, and you should now head to Veon Quarry. When you get to the Eastern Sobura Cave, youre given the option to skip the cave if you like and head to the other end automatically. Its a good idea, itll save time and unless you really need the levels (the next dungeon is doable at level 5, though level 7 or 8 is probably recommended), you should take the skip. Make your way to Veon Quarry, the sinkhole is in the large area to the south. Mysterious SinkholeThis dungeon, while fairly short, is probably the toughest so far, with a whole new group of insect-based monsters to fight. The monsters have some nasty status effects in their arsenal, including Poison, so make sure you stock up on Antivenom before plunging the depths. Of course, this dungeon is also a fairly decent place to level, you might want to try getting to level 10 before making your way to the boss. Just keep going until you make your way to a room where a cutscene plays, theres a little girl whos being attacked by numerous bugs, Hark recognizes her as the girl from the fountain and gasps when he realizes that the kids he met earlier are now in danger. The girl pleads with you to go save her friends before the big monster eats them. Hark rushes forward, at which Blitz looks surprised and Melana scolds him for his recklessness. Hark: You heard her, if we dont get there fast, those kids will die! Melana: Well get there, but well get there together. Blitz: Yeah, youre no good to those kids if you get killed! Were all in this adventure together, got it? Melana: I told you, this isnt a *sighs* Blitz is right, we have to do this together. Well save those kids, I promise. *smiles* Hark: Yeahokay. *nods* One more screen (be sure to save at the save point here), and then another cutscene plays. A massive antlion has two of the kids in its claws and is about to feast on one, Melana charges forward and jabs it in the eye with her rapier, forcing it to release its captives. Melana: Hey, why dont you eat something bigger, huh?

Hark: Yeah. You big dumb *sees the antlion rising over the party* Im not scared of you! I wont let those kids down! Blitz: Me neither, were gonna kick your ass! BOSS: Antlion (4,000 HP) For this fight, you should definitely try your best to keep the party from being poisoned, as poison causes occasional twitches that mess up your combo timing. Try to do your best to coordinate Blitz and Harks attacks, and then fire off one of Melanas Fire spells right afterward, if you time it right, you should do 800-1200 damage in one combo, meaning youll only need four turns to take the Antlion down. Keep everyones HP above 75, the Antlions deadly Thunder Crush can do around that amount of damage to one person, the Whirlpool attack does around 30-50 to the whole party as well. Other than that, theres not too much to worry about and soon the Antlion will fall. After the Antlion is defeated, the monsters disperse. The kids are safe and you immediately reappear outside of the quarry, reuniting the children with their parents. Hark gives them some inspiring words, telling them to leave the real adventures to the older kids and that they should just pretend for now if they dont want to get in trouble. The success of your rescue at the mines has left Veons mayor and the supervisor of the quarry quite impressed, and they both want to pass along news of your bravery to people all over the continent. Melana humbly thanks them for their praise, and your party returns to the SEEC quarry. Melana: I must say the two of you are a lot tougher than I ever couldve thought. Maybe this really is the kind of thing we can do all the time. Hark: Yeah, but dont they need you here running the quarry? Blitz: Melana youre stronger than both of us. Melana: Well, I. Ive always had to be this way. Ive been fighting my whole life. Not not monsters, or criminals, but fighting for survival. Blitz: You told us how your parents how they Melana: Its all right. Its been fifteen years, I can talk about it without breaking down into tears. Blitz: Yeah, but I just figured you didnt want to talk about it with us. Were still your employees after all. Melana: youre probably right. Ill go talk with the supervisor. If you two would like to come with me, youre welcome to do so. After a bit more dialogue, the scene ends and your party is still intact, the story wont advance until you head up to the supervisors office. Do anything youd like, you can even head over to the Veon Quarry, where there are monsters in the sinkhole again that you can fight for more experience. Finally though, youll want to head up to the supervisors office. In a scene, the supervisor explains that word of your deeds has reached Goza, and that they might need your help in protecting some of their quarries on the border. Melana inquires if theyre going to be used as mercenaries to fight Kunara, something shes uncomfortable with, but youre assured that the conflict hasnt

developed into a war yet and that the three of you will be helping to ensure that it doesnt. Youre given a car (which looks like an old Model T, only somewhat more stylized), and told to head up past the desert to the city of Kastith. The desert highway is your next destination, and youre to set out in the morning. Head to the barracks, and there will be another scene. There will be a scene where Melana visits Blitz in the middle of the night to discuss the upcoming mission. Hark is asleep during all of this, its a touching and rather personal discussion. Melana tells Blitz that he and Hark dont have to do this, it goes way above and beyond their usual duties for the quarry. Blitz tells Melana that hes always wanted to do things like this and that theyre going to be helping essence miners all over the world. Melana confides in Blitz that he and Hark and the other workers are the closest thing to a family that shes ever had. Melana: I know that I shouldnt be saying these things to you. Blitz: Professional distance, right? *snickers* Cmon, if were gonna be risking our lives together, this is the kinda stuff we need to be airing out. We look out for each other, okay? Melana: Yeah *she smiles again* Blitz: Melana? Melana: Yes? Blitz: Youre not all serious anymore. Melana: Im trying to get rid of the tension, all right? Blitz: Im not tense. *smirks* Melana: just just promise me you and Hark will stay safe. Blitz: Well be just fine. Im.worried for you too, you know? Melana: Well, you dont need to. You think Im going to be in any danger? Blitz: You never know. Melana: You should get a good nights sleep. And so should I. see you in the morning, Blitz. *leaves* After this, the morning comes and theres a quick dialogue before youre free to get in the car and head on out. Take care of anything you still need to do before going, once you hit the desert, you will be able to come back but its a long way. Great Southern DesertThe desert is a separate area, not part of the overworld. Its pretty large and leads to some other areas, some of them you can explore now, others you wont be able to hit until later on. Of course, right now you arent able to explore at all, theres a cutscene where the car is driving up the desert road for a while and a brief dialogue before a sandstorm kicks up and the car suddenly stalls. The party has to push the car to a waystation in the center of the desert (this is a short minigame with some pretty funny dialogue), once you reach the waystation theres a man there who offers to get the sand out of the cars intake while you wait. At this point, youre free to explore, or advance the storyline by sleeping at the waystation. Instead, I would advice doing some desert adventuring. Theres a small cave

in the southwest area of the desert with some treasure inside, including something called a Flawless Essence. These are little treasures scattered throughout the game that you can find and trade to a man who collects them, the man can be found in various places throughout the game, including the desert waystation. If you find the Flawless Essence and return it to the man, hell give you 500 Gil, 3 potions, and an Igneous Rock that can be used to upgrade your equipment (this will come into play later in the game). The deserts monsters arent too tough, a lot of them are the same as what you fought in the Veon Quarry, and the others are actually a bit easier. Theres one monster of note, the Young Cactuar. He gives decent XP and a TON of AP, though he runs easily and its very hard to hit him, attacks do very little damage and spells do nothing to him (and trigger 100 Needles). You can fight Young Cactaurs to gain Affinity Points, but be careful. He uses 100 Needles pretty frequently (hits one party member for 100 HP worth of damage), and if he doesnt run, hell eventually use 1,000 Needles which is obviously an instant kill at this point. You might still want to grind Young Cactaurs, a few hours and you can easily get the ara spells for Melana which is obviously a big help at this point. Also, Young Cactaurs dont show up very often. Also, be aware that there are sandstorms in the desert, and if you try to fight in the middle of one, your party members will start out with the Blind status for that battle, which isnt fun. Theres a desert trader you can find toward the northern end of the desert, just off the main road. He stocks items, no weapons or armor or accessories, hes notable for being the first merchant in the game to sell Hi-Potions, so buy some off him if youd like. Once youre satisfied, head back to the desert waystation and get a good nights rest. Your car will be fixed and youll be able to drive up the main road and exit the desert (you can also get out of your car to explore some more if youd like). Youll emerge on the other side of the desert and the next areas will be open to you. Kastith, the big city to the northeast, is the next destination, though on the way youll pass a smaller town, Omita, and a connected forest. To the north is Mt. Kastith, but its blocked off by a Gozan soldier patrol. OmitaOmita isnt that impressive of a village, although you can get a new helmet for your party members here (Kastith has an even better one). There is some interesting information you can get, however, including some information on the Gozan patrols (Goza lies just over the mountain and Gozan soldiers have been milling about the village from time to time). Theres some kind of secret grotto in the forest and an artifact of supposed great power. You can go into the forest if youd like, its fairly large (larger than it appears on the world map) and the enemies are decently strong. Theres an Anti-Poison Charm in a chest if you need an extra one. You can also find the second Flawless Essence here (which you can give to the Essence Collector, hes moved on to the hotel in Kastith), youll have to fight a Forest Floran to get it. The Forest Floran has 2,400 HP and hits fairly hard (around 80 HP with its regular attack), though Quake spells are very affective in burying it, you can have both Hark and Melana use Quake while Blitz uses his regular attack to put this thing down in no time. In the center of the forest is the grotto thats been

discussed, though nothing of note is there except an old-looking obelisk. Make a note of this location and head out of the forest. Nothing else to do now but head to Kastith. KastithKastith is a large city, encompassing more than a dozen screens, its significantly bigger than Veon and you can see dozens of people milling about as soon as you arrive. The party immediately goes to the Hall of Spires, the large building at the north end of the city where the city council works. They meet with the mayor, who tells Melana that he wishes to speak with her and her alone. Melana insists on Blitz and Hark being part of the discussion, but the mayor says that the official from Goza requested a meeting with only Melana. Melana relents, warning Blitz and Hark not to do anything stupid during the meeting. So now youre free to explore Kastith. You can visit the shops, but on your way there (unless you take the back way around), youll pass through the town square and see a quick scene of a beautiful girl impressing a crowd of people with a display of fire magic, before healing a young girls wounds. Hark is a bit freaked out by the girl, though Blitz thinks shes cool and wants to approach her. Approaching her will advance the storyline, but you can still explore the city afterwards, so its recommended that you talk to the girl first. Blitz: Hey thats some pretty impressive magic you were doing. What kind of Essence do you use? Girl: Oh essence? Oh no, this magic is completely natural. Ive had it since before I can remember. Blitz: Oh wow, so youre a natural-born witch then? Hark: Blitz, dont call her a witch, thats not nice! Girl: *giggles* Thats the technical term though I dont mind. Blitz: Yeah, people used to hate witches but since essence mining operations ramped up a few decades ago, more and more people are using magic and its not taboo anymore. Hark: But still *sighing* Girl: Its fine, I like using my gift to help people, I just wish I could help my friends down in the sewers. oh! I didnt introduce myself, did I? My name is Ophi its wonderful to meet you! Blitz: Im Blitz and my friend here, his names Hark. Hark: *nervously laughing* Nice to meet you Blitz: Harks nervous around magic. *whispers to her* I think hes scared of witches. Ophi: Oh my! *giggles again* Hark, its okay, I dont bite. *extends her hand to him* Hark: Ophi *takes her hand* Im sorry, I dont um get out much. Blitz: Yeah, we can both tell. So whats this I hear about a problem with your friends? Ophi: Well, not everyone in Kastith can afford to live on the surface. Theres a whole nother city down there, below our feet. We call it the Underbelly. The people there are wonderful but were all very poor and we have little in the way of resources, so some of us have to come up here and work. I do magic shows for money.

Blitz: Do you charge for healing sick people too? Ophi: I could never ever charge for healing people who need it, no matter how much we need the money. What brings you to Kastith? Blitz: Were on an adventure! Were out clearing monsters around the quarries so the essence miners arent in any danger and can do their work. Ophi: Clearing monsters, you say? Blitz: Yeah, its fun! Hark: Not really Ophi goes on to explain that theres an infestation of monsters in a large area of the sewers and that several people in the Underbelly have been taken and killed by them. She asks Hark and Blitz for their help. Hark tells Blitz that Melana wouldnt want them going down to the sewers on such a dangerous mission, but of course Blitz insists on going, and that kicks off your next adventure. In addition, Ophi is now a member of the party! See why it was better to wait to shop? Now you dont have to make two trips. Hit the shops and upgrade everyones gear, make sure you buy the Steelcast Blade for Melana, along with some armor for her when she comes back. If you dont have the money (full upgrades on everyone will run you about 15,000 gil), head outside and do some fundraising amongst the local monsters to get the cash. Turning in the second Perfect Essence to the essence collector (hes in the hotel lobby) will help, giving you 1,200 Gil (along with a Brigands Glove that helps with the timing on Harks Steal command). You can reach the Underbelly via the entrance in the eastern part of Kastith. The Underbelly is another massive city-like area, you can even visit Ophis grandmother for a scene. There is a shop in the Underbelly but theyre not selling anything that Kastith doesnt have. When youre ready to delve into the Underbelly Depths, just ask the gatekeeper to open the sluice lock for you. Be prepared for a major dungeon. Underbelly DepthsThe Underbelly Depths are by far the games largest dungeon to date, with some rather difficult enemies as well. The Sewer Rats are nasty on their own, they attack in packs and can poison the whole party in a hurry. The Vagrants can steal from you and occasionally use magic, and of course, whats a sewer without crocodiles? In this case, there is the Crocodillian, who can hit for more than 100 HP of damage with his normal attack. Two hits to Ophi at this stage could be fatal, so youll want to make sure shes safe. Thankfully, Ophi has a powerful Thunder spell that will wreak havoc on most of the sewer nasties. Make sure youve got a few Ethers to keep Ophis MP up, you can buy them in both Kastith and the Underbelly. Theyre somewhat expensive but youll want at least three. There are also two save points in the Underbelly, the one by the boss and one about halfway through, you may want to buy a good amount of Tents (significantly cheaper than Ethers) and just stick around one of those for a while, building levels until youre ready to move on. TRY to get to level 15 in the sewer, 10 is the bare minimum for fighting the boss unless youre well-practiced in low-level fighting, 12 is doable but 15 will keep the fight from being too terribly hard. You may also want to make a couple of detours to the +20 HP and +50 HP spots on Ophis Affinity Tree, if you can get her HP

above 300, itll be much harder for the physical attacks of the beasts in this dungeon to kill her. So with that said, lets conquer this dungeon. There are numerous treasures lying about and many diverging paths. Its easy to get lost, but thankfully, Ophi knows the depths well and is willing to steer you to the right path. If it seems like youre somewhat lost, Ophi will offer to help you out. You have three choices. You can ask Ophi to give you a hint, you can say I think I can find it on my own, which will prompt her to ask you again in 10-15 minutes, or you can say I dont need any directions, which will prompt her not to offer again for at least an hour. Final Fantasy veterans and people who like to explore will want to take the last option, people who just want to get to the exit should take Ophis hints, as theyll eventually take you right to the end of the dungeon. Eventually, youll reach a large, open room with a save point and a narrow path leading up, youll hear a loud roar and Ophi and Hark will both get quite nervous. Make sure you save, the next boss is quite difficult! Finally, head up the path and the room will begin to rumble. Ophi: Oh! Whats that? Blitz: I think thats whats causing all the monsters around here Hark: Look! Its huge! *The water begins to bulge and a massive creature, a cross between a dragon and a snake, rises from the depths. It bares its hooked fangs and gives another huge roar.* Ophi: We gotta beat that thing?! Blitz: Oh yeah. Youre going down, monster! BOSS: Serpentalia (HP: 9,500) Serpentalia is definitely the hardest boss youve fought up to this point. It hits hard and if youre not careful, youll be seeing the game over screen in a hurry. Its basic attack can do anywhere from 90-150 damage to one person and can cause poison, it can also use Water for around 30-60 damage to one person, it can sweep with its tail for decent party damage, and it can hit the party with a massive water wave which causes around 50-80 damage to everyone. Its nastiest attack, however, is its Poison Vapors, which will hit for anywhere from 100-200 (and, of course, can cause poison). If you havent been leveling up, this attack will be your undoing and youll likely have to stop everything and heal just to stay alive. So what do you do? Blitz and Hark need to coordinate their attacks so that Ophis Thunder hits right after, if you do it right and if youre leveled enough, youll do around 1,000 damage in a single round. Keep this up and eventually youll win. Just dont let anyones HP dip below 150, if youre at level 15 and have been smart with the Affinity Tree, Blitz and Hark will have around 400 and Ophi will be comfortably above 300, giving you a few rounds to be on full attack mode before you have to heal. Make sure to have Hark Steal for a Water Crystal. Youll also win a Bio Affinity Mark which Ophi or Melana can use to get the Bio spell, this will likely be your best offensive magic spell until you start learning the ara spells.

After Serpentalia is defeated, there will be a scene in which Ophi happily hugs Hark, to which Blitz takes some offense but he is glad the day is saved. You return to the Underbelly automatically. The monsters will still be in the depths so if you feel the need to return and get some extra XP or gil, go right ahead. Theres a quick dialogue in which Ophi expresses the desire to join your group, she admires how strong Blitz and Hark are and believes that once shes seen the world shell know a lot more about how best to help her people. As soon as the three of you emerge from the sewers, there will be a cutscene. Melana: *approaches the group and immediately holds her nose* Oh! Where the hell have you two been? Blitz: We were uh kinda in the sewer. Ophi: Hi there! Melana: And who is she? Hark: Shes um Blitz: We helped her! Hark: Blitz! Blitz: There was a monster infestation in the sewers, and we killed the creature causing it! Melana: And just what did I say about going and doing anything stupid? You did a mission completely unauthorized? Did we even get paid? Blitz: Melana, people were getting killed Ophi: I can give you some money if youd like, were all very gratefulMelana: No *sighs* You you did the right thing. You nearly got yourselves killed doing it, and you smell like the underside of a behemoth, but you did the right thing. Hark: Um, Melana? We have something else to tell you. Ophi wants to come along with us. Melana: Absolutely not. Ophi: ButMelana: This is official Southern Expanse Essence Company business, youre not evenBlitz: Dont you think this has gone beyond SEEC business at this point? I mean, were helping quarries all over the continent now. Were sort of independent contractors, and Ophi wants to join us. Hark: Her magic is REALLY strong. Melana: As strong as mine? Hark: Yeah I think it is. Ophi: She has magic too? Melana: *groans* I dont want to talk about this. .fine, you can come along. But you will do EVERYTHING I say. *to Blitz and Hark* And that goes for the two of you too! No more secret unauthorized missions, we have a job to do and thats it. Understood? Blitz and Hark: Yes maam! Ophi: Yes sir! maam! *giggles* Melana: *glares at her* Melana then explains the next mission. Goza has contracted the party to deal with a situation at the Crypt of the Sorceress, which lies across the sea on the main Gozan continent to the east. The party is to cross Mt. Kastith, make their way to the port of Yali, where a boat has been chartered to take them to their destination. Ophi then chimes in

that she wants to say goodbye to her grandmother (and that she, Blitz, and Hark can get cleaned up there). Theres a scene where Ophi and her grandmother say a heartfelt goodbye (and a funny scene of Blitz and Hark having to take a bath together), then youre finally given control of the party. Make sure to buy equipment for Melana if you havent already, then its off to Mt. Kastith! Mt. KastithMt. Kastith is a fairly straight-forward area, many of the enemies youll fight here are the same ones from the surrounding world map, though there are a few new ones to mix things up, including the Wingrunners (who can cast Aerora) and the Cockatrice (who can turn party members to stone, bring some Softs). You can get the Ancient Blade here in a side cave, its more powerful than anything youll be able to buy for a short while, make sure you equip it on Blitz so he can start doing significantly more damage. This will be the first place where youll have to choose a party member to sit out. I prefer a party of Blitz, Melana, and Ophi for the time being, though you might want to have Hark in for bosses as he can steal valuable items. Its of course up to you which party members to use. You cant sub out Blitz, if you try a message will come up where he says no way Im missing out on any of the action! and the game refuses to let you. There will come a point when you will be able to have a party without Blitz, but thats not right now. Once youve crossed Mt. Kastith, youll be in a new area but theres nothing much to do other than fight beach monsters (not really worth it) and head into Yali. YaliYali is a small port city in Gozan territory, which means youll be able to get some Gozan perspective on current events by talking to the various townspeople. Theyll mention that they distrust Kunara, though several townspeople want cooperation between the two nations. The shops are mostly the same as in Kastith, so feel free to skip them unless you want to replenish your supply of Softs (not a bad idea). When youre done talking, head to the port and youll trigger a scene, the boat takes off and youre headed to the main Gozan continent (thats the westernmost of the two large landmasses on the map). Boat to FenneranThe journey to Fenneran on the Gozan continent is basically just a procession of scenes. Youll start out in control of Blitz (and only Blitz, the other party members are temporarily removed from your party). You can walk around talking to people on the ship, several of the sailors seem to admire your partys fighting ability and various feats. You can talk to Hark and Ophi for a cute scene where Hark is getting seasick and Ophi mixes up a disgusting but effective home remedy to cure his seasickness. Several people will suggest that you take a nap, and you can go ahead and do just that. When you wake up, itll be nighttime and you can walk out on deck, where Melana is standing. Another scene begins.

Blitz: Cant believe Im already going back. Its only been two years. Melana: Oh? I do remember you coming into the company two years ago, is that when you left Gale? Blitz: Yeah my dad was forced out of a job when the quarry closed. They found some big ancient castle or something, monsters came out and the quarry became too dangerous. hey, maybe well get commissioned to slay the monsters there! Melana: Theyre still there? Blitz: Not even the army can get them out. Theyre trying to have some scientists explore but its way too dangerous. I was thinking of going into the army before I came to the Southern Island, but I got rejected. Melana: I cant imagine its because you didnt have the skills. Even back then you mustve been somewhat of a fighter. Blitz: It wasnt the skills, it was the mentality I just I couldnt bring myself to kill a man, you know? Even when we get attacked by humans on our missions, we just beat them up until they run, I couldnt be a soldier who had to kill Melana: Well, whatever tensions there are between Goza and Kunara, it hasnt erupted into war, or even anything close. Theres just some border tension, there hasnt been a major war between the two great nations since the Great War of Legend. I mean, theres not even much animosity between Gozans and Kunarians. Blitz: Youre a native Kunarian, right? Melana: *nodding* But I havent been back in fifteen years. Not since my parents *she bows her head* Blitz: You dont have to say anything. Youve told us before Melana: You know they died when I was young, I didnt go into any detail. It was a plague, swept through our town I was immune. The towns abandoned now no one knows what brought the foul plague winds upon our village. Blitz: Sometimes sometimes these things, they just happen, you know? Melana: I know, but its its not fair *she starts to bite her lip, but doesnt say anything* I shouldnt I shouldnt talk about it anymore. Many people have had it far worse than I have. Ive been lucky. Blitz: Lucky to be where you are? Coordinator of the SEEC Southern Quarry? Melana, thats not luck. Youre smart, youre determined Melana: Being smart, thats luck. anyway, Im not that smart. Im out here risking my life with a couple of slackers and a weird little girl. *smirks and laughs to herself* Were all gonna get killed, you know. Blitz: Well, at least you wont die alone. Melana: thanks. *she turns away* ...you and Hark keep up the good work. Blitz: Oh..! Thanks we will! Melana? Are you happy traveling along with me? Melana: *turns* Blitz: *quickly* Withus! Me and Hark! And Ophi! Youre enjoying yourself, right? Melana: Could be worse. *smiles and walks away* Blitz: oh come on! Melana! *she doesnt turn around* well, at least I know she doesnt hate me. Thats a start!

The boat soon arrives in the port of Fenneran, and a delegation comes to escort the party to the Western Gozan Excavation Company main office. Melana asks to be allowed to explore the town, and youre given free reign to do so. FenneranFenneran is bigger than Yali, and though the shops are mostly the same, there are some good accessories to buy, and youre also introduced to Equipment Enhancement in the weapon and armor shop (if you decide to go straight through to the next part of the story, a guard briefs you on Equipment Enhancement at the entrance to the Crypt of the Sorceress). Equipment EnhancementEquipment Enhancement works like this. Every piece of equipment (weapon, armor, helmet, shield, accessory) you have has at least one level of enhancement available to it. Some have two. A select few have three. You can advance an item to its enhanced state by using a certain combination of items and using the Enhance option from your menu. Some enhanced items advance simply to a common item along the chain (a basic Iron Blade will enhance to a Silver Blade that you could buy at a shop further along in the game). Some enhanced items become unique. You can combine the Adamantite you shouldve stolen from Quarrite with the Ancient Blade from Mt. Kastith to get the Adamant Blade, which is more powerful than anything you can buy or find for Blitz until almost halfway through the game. Yeah. There are other things to do in Fenneran and the surrounding areas that you may or may not want to do before heading into the Crypt of the Sorceress. Theres a river nearby (to the east), across from which lies some of the next few areas. You cant cross the river just yet, but theres a man who will let you raft downstream to his island, where you can find another piece of Perfect Essence by playing a quick minigame. To the north is an ancient, abandoned castle where some dangerous enemies lurk (more dangerous than the ones in the crypt in some ways), but you can find good treasures (a new rapier for Melana, two pieces of Perfect Essence) and its of course a good place to level up. Arkan CastleArkan Castle is totally optional, but there are, as mentioned earlier, some decent rewards for exploring the castles three floors. The castle is home to some enemies who like to use Quake magic, the Floor Demon will use Quakera which can cause upwards of 200 damage to your whole party, so be careful when exploring this place and if you meet a Floor Demon, try to kill him (he has 1,600 HP) or run quickly. On the third floor of the castle is the throne room, if you enter the throne room, be prepared to be attacked by a trio of Corpse Beasts with 2,000 HP a pop. Theyll attack your party with some fairly strong regular attacks, so try to kill one as soon as possible so you dont have three of them striking you every turn. Once you kill the Corpse Beasts, you can look in the throne

to the right for a Circlet (Melana or Ophi can equip this, Id put it on Ophi as it will give her a decent Magic bonus). Once youve raided the castle you can stay and grind or leave. In Fenneran itself, there are a few things to do, including a mini-game involving a cheating Moogle card dealer (if you can figure out how hes cheating and expose him, youll get 5,000 gil for your trouble), and a visit to the town library reveals an interesting conversation with a man writing a book about the Sylvid Dynasty who once ruled over Kunara as recently as sixty years ago before being purged and exiled. He tells you that the last surviving Sylvid, Princess Krynia, is planning a visit to Gozas capital city of Centralia to speak with the prime minister. Once youre ready to move on, head to the WGEC office to get the details of your next mission. You are told that the Crypt of the Sorceress, while being investigated for its viability as a possible Essence mining site, is under siege by some kind of invisible force. Ophi, of course, takes that to mean that the crypt is haunted, and quickly grabs Harks hand. Hark is equally nervous. Melana: With all due respect, were miners, not ghostbusters. Hark: Tell him, Melana! Blitz: I aint afraid of no ghosts. *shrugs* Eventually, of course, the party relents and the next stop is the crypt. Its the structure to the northeast of the city. Crypt of the SorceressThe Crypt of the Sorceress is much smaller than the Underbelly Depths, but no less confusing, and solving a couple of simple puzzles is required to get deeper into the dungeon. The monsters here are mostly undead, which means that Cure spells and Phoenix Downs hurt them. For the most part, however, theyre not too hard. None of the monsters in the crypt will cast Zombie, in fact, the only monster with any status effects of note is the Lumbering Ghoul, whose bite can cause poison. Make your way to the Chamber of the Sorceress, save at the save point before going inside. When you enter the chamber, all is quiet at first, but soon you can hear a loud moan from the sorceress grave. A shrouded form bursts forth. Woman: More seekers of the ancients power? Melana: Are you the restless spirit haunting this crypt? Woman: You are the fools haunting my home! You trod upon our graves, calling forth our energy to fight your own wars, never learning the lessons we died to teach you Ophi: Um were sorry? Woman: If you are truly sorry, then lay down and die! BOSS: Sorceress (HP: 5,555)

First off, the sorceress is technically NOT undead. In fact, if you use Cure or Phoenix Down on her, shell laugh it off and assert that she is not like the other wandering pieces of flesh who have come to keep her company in her misery. The Sorceress goes down fairly quickly, but shes quite dangerous for the simple fact that she has and is willing to use the complete set of ara spells (Fira, Blizzara, Thundara, Quakera, Watera, Aerora), both on individual targets (for around 250 damage a pop) and the entire party (between 100-150 to the whole party). For this reason, its recommended that you have someone (either Hark or Melana, whichever you decide to use of the two) heal, while Blitz and Ophi (or Melana) let loose with their best attacks. Blitzs Adamant Sword should do around 500 damage if you have it (more in a combo). Ophis magic will be slightly less potent, due to the Sorceress high magic defense, but it will still do decent damage, especially if Ophi has started learning second-level magic (Fira will be the first she learns, youll probably get it while Ophis in the late teens in terms of level). Melana will get Blizzara around the same time if youre using her. Either way, the sorceress will go down soon enough, and after the fight youll have another scene. Sorceress: Nnnhh. *she bows her head* So you havent learned the lessons after all Melana: Were not using the energy from Essence for war, its for technology to help the people! Sorceress: And what will happen once the Essence begins to run out? War always comes from a fight over resources and the same thing that happened to us will happen to you *she looks genuinely sad* I I feel sorry for you. I died in agony and I cannot know restand yet, despite my continual suffering, it is you for whom I grieve. Blitz: Please were not Sorceress: Though I have all the time in the world to listen to your words, I have not the will. I will no longer attack you or anyone else, though your presence in my tomb brings me nothing but suffering. I beg you, leave me in peace. *retreats to her tomb* Throughout the scene, there are brief glimpses of moments from the sorceress earlier life. If you look closely, youll see that the sorceress is in fact the girl from the opening cutscene, one of the people wiped out by the Ultima spell. The party does not know what to make of the sorceress words. Ophi and Blitz seem very sympathetic toward her, but Melana just wants to get out and report to the WGEC that the crypt has been purged of any threat. Blitz: But that girl, if essence miners come here theyll be intruding on her home! Melana: You dont think I care about that? It doesnt matter, we were given a job and we need to see it through. Blitz: Cant we cant we at least figure out a way to put her mind at peace? Melana: You can do that on your own time. We need to go back to town. Blitz: What if it was you? What if you wereHark: *puts his hand on Blitzs shoulder* Cmon this isnt any of our concern anymore.

Return to Fenneran, make sure you save before you do so. Upon returning to the WGEC office, the supervisor will be pleased to know that the crypt is now safe. Melana omits mentioning the girl, seeing as how shes no longer going to attack any more intruders. The supervisor offers to allow the party to sleep in the finest room in town, compliments of an official in the Gozan intelligence organization. The party is taken to a large building in Fenneran (you passed it before but couldnt go in) and given a lavish room with a feast. The party eats their fill, but before they can go to bed, everyone passes out. Some mysterious men enter the room as Blitzs vision blurs and he too falls unconscious with the others. Secret BarracksBlitz awakens alone in a cell, being confronted by a man in a Gozan uniform. The man demands to know who Blitz is really working for, Blitz responds that he and his friends have no ulterior motives and that theyre just trying to do a job for some Gozan officials. The man suspects Blitz and his party of being spies, and before Blitz can protest anymore, he leaves the cell and locks it. After a scene of Blitz wondering where his friends are, youre given control and can walk around the cell, rest, or save. Theres a way out by climbing the stool near the corner and slipping through a hole in the ceiling, quickly make your way through the narrow crawlspace and emerge outside of your cell. You can now look for the others. The area has some monsters but theyre not tough, even for just Blitz. Eventually, youll come across where Melana is being held. Shes tied to a chair in an interrogation room and it seems the leader of these individuals is trying to get information out of her. Dynal: I wont ask you again what are you really planning? Melana: *calmly* This is completely pointless. Were not spies. Were trying to do a job. Dynal: Do I have to get rough with you? *holds up a sparking piece of metal* Melana: Oh, how brave are you? Torturing someone who cant even move. Blitz: Melana! *runs into the room* Melana: Blitz, you idiot!!! *her fists clench behind her and now shes trying to escape* Dynal: *to the three men with him* One of the fools escaped hes useless to us. Kill him. Melana: No! Blitz: *takes out his sword as the three men rush him* You really shouldve confiscated my weapon, you know. *is still having a tough go of fighting them off* Melana: Nnnh!! Dynal: Mmm, yes, unless you wish to watch him die I suggest you tell me everything. Melana: I dont know anything because were not doing anything! *her struggles intensify as Blitz starts to lose* Blitz: Aaaah! Get off me! Dynal: Hes not going to make it Melana: *gets up and smashes the chair shes tied to against Dynal, knocking him down and shattering the chair into dozens of shards* Bastard! *she grabs the largest intact piece of the chair, a wooden leg, and starts beating Dynal fiercely with it* Blitz: Whoa.

Dynal: Dammit! *gets up* We still have the other two, they have to know something useful! *flees the room with the men* Blitz: Melana that wasMelana: Have you found Hark and Ophi? Blitz: No we have to find them, dont we? Melana: Yeah, we kinda do. Come on! Control is restored to your party and now you have Blitz and Melana to fight the monsters with. Note that the monster parties here increase in size depending on how many people you have in your party, once you get Hark back, the parties will be at their full strength (the monsters here are pretty easy regardless). Anyway, head down another corridor and youll soon find Hark in a cell, the guards havent touched him yet and after a short scene, hell rejoin the party. A little ways more and youll see Ophi being dragged out of her cell by Dynal and some of his henchmen. Dynal: *approaches Ophi as a henchman holds her in place* Youve got one chance to tell me everything before I start hurting you. Ophi: But were not spies! Youve got the wrong- *Dynal reaches up and touches her face* Aaaah! Dynal: Youre a pretty one, you know that? Mmm Ophi: *shivers as Dynal caresses her check* Someone help! Hark: Leave Ophi alone! *runs over with Blitz and Melana* Dynal: Dammit! deal with them make sure they dont escape. *runs off* You now have to battle three Obedient Thugs, they have 1,200 HP a piece and arent that hard. If you can handle the corpse beasts in Arkan Castle, these guys will be complete pushovers. After you beat them, theres a brief scene where the party reunites. Ophi is still somewhat shaken, but theres no time to be scared, as you still have to escape. Theres another scene where Dynal returns to his four main henchmen, other members of the Gozan intelligence division. Dynal: Make sure they cant escape, trigger the security gates they have to be hiding something, whoever heard of ordinary essence miners with such power? Gelna: What was that you were doing with that girl? *saw what Dynal did to Ophi on a monitor in the security office* You werent really going toDynal: What? Of course not, I was trying to intimidate her. Kelgon: Besides, who would blame the boss if he did? That girls cute. *laughing* Though I prefer the other one the one who smashed up that chair. Tren: Please were here to get information, not play around with girls. Dynal, I hope your judgment isnt slipping. Dynal: I told you, I know what Im doing. Bell: Hehehehe, thisll be fun *pulls some switches* So basically, the rest of this dungeon is a semi-stealth mission where youre trying to evade being spotted, both by monitors and by guards. While getting spotted doesnt mean a game over or being sent back to start, it means a forced encounter with guards and the

closure of some gates, preventing you from accessing certain treasures. While nothing you stand to lose is a one-time only item, you do risk losing some decent equipment upgrades if you get caught, so try to sneak around as well as possible. Whether you choose to sneak or just plow right through, youll eventually end up at the security office and will break your way in. Dynal and Gelna have already left the building, but the other three goons are still there and ready to bust you up. Tren: Lets see how strong you essence miners really are, hmm? Kelgon: And when were done, that girls all mine! *points to Melana* Melana: Im going to enjoy kicking your teeth in BOSS: Tren, Kelgon, and Bell (HP: 2,000, 6,135, 4,200) While this battle can be tricky because its three-on-three, there are a couple of tricks that will make it go much easier. First, because Tren can heal, it goes without saying that you should kill him first, and with only 2,000 HP, hell go down very fast. Bell uses offensive magic, but compared to the Sorceress, its nothing, and Kelgons physical attacks are mostly harmless except for the Big Palooka Punch which can do around 200 damage (especially to someone like Hark or Ophi with weak defense). After taking out Tren, go for Bell and then knock out Kelgon. Once Tren is gone, you might want to try using second-level magic on both Kelgon and Bell at once, both Melana and Ophi can do serious damage with Blizzara and Fira, which, of course, can cause some bonus combo damage if done in rapid succession. Blitz, of course, should use his normal attack and his Full-Force Attack whenever he can (if youve got his third FFA on the Affinity Tree, which is Cyclonic Slash, it will cause over 1,000 damage in a single blow, possibly more if you have the Adamant Blade). Once the three bosses are beaten down, Melana will turn the tables and interrogate them. The only thing any of them coughs up is that youve been taken to the eastern side of the continent and that the nearby town of Shroud is their base of operations. The party exits the dungeon and emerges on the eastern side of the continent, far from Fenneran. Youll see Shroud to the west, along with a large communications tower that is being guarded by Gozan personnel. You can head to the river and the bridge, but its being blocked, so no going back to Fenneran that way. Theres some kind of marsh to the north thats currently impassable, leaving the town of Shroud as the place to go next. ShroudShroud is a town cast in shadow from the communications tower nearby. As the party enters, the townspeople seem to give them a wide berth. Everyone here seems nervous, a bit of talking will reveal why. The towns been cut off from the world by signals emanating from the communications tower. Dynal and his minions now rule the area and control the town. The shopkeeper will sell you some equipment, but he begs your party not to tell anyone. As the party walks around the large house in the north part of the village, a woman rushes out and approaches. She insists you follow her inside. Melana,

Hark, and Ophi are all worried that it might be a trap, but Blitz wants answers and he follows the woman. The rest of the party does so as well. Inside the house, the woman, named Myra, explains that Dynal is using his position in the Gozan government to seize power and hes attempting to do so on the eastern part of the continent. Hes used his pull to get the bridge across the river blockaded, and hes commandeered the continents largest communications tower to gain Shroud as a base. Only the harshness of the northern marsh has prevented him from extending his influence north into Cliffpeak and its massive quarry. The communications tower is inaccessible from ground level, instead, Dynal uses a secret tunnel located in Shroud to reach the towers lower levels. Myra has a way for the party to reach this tunnel, she wants them to deactivate it, which will prevent Dynal and his men from blocking off Shrouds communications. Melana and Blitz both quickly agree to help carry out this plan. Ophi is quite nervous about dealing with Dynal again, but Hark convinces her that they need to stop Dynal before he can gain even more power. Myra leads your party to a small shack where the tunnel access is located. Goza Tower AccessThe tunnel is a straightforward path that will take you right to the towers lower levels. Its infested with monsters, but theyre weak monsters and shouldnt impede your progress that much. Its just a short shot to reach the lower levels of the tower. Goza TowerThe ascent to the above-ground portion of the tower is a three-level trek through a very small dungeon. The same monsters who accosted you in the access tunnel will fight you here. Save before heading above-ground. Once you reach ground level, Dynals men will spot you and youll engage in a series of fights as you battle your way up the tower. These enemies are a bit more difficult than the ones you fought underground, but none of them are all that difficult. Have Hark steal the Armored Vest from the Buff Tough in the fourth battle. After five battles, youll reach the top level of the tower and a save point. Save here, then head into the main control room. Surprise! No sign of Dynal OR Gelna but the towers automated security bot is lurking here, and hes itching to fight. BOSS: Spiderborg (HP: 7,250) The Spiderborg is a large, mechanical spider with a couple of fairly fierce attacks that you should be aware of. First, it has the 8-Leg Special, which assaults your party with a series of blows that do 50-100 damage a piece. If the Spiderborg concentrates too much on one party member, it could be fatal, so try to keep your HP up throughout the fight. The second attack to worry about is the Straightline Missile, which hits your party for

150-300 damage. It can also use a group Thundara spell to do about half that. On top of that, the Spiderborgs defenses are pretty high, so your physicals wont do quite as much damage as theyve done against the last two bosses. Still, Thundara is effective against this boss, doing around 1,500, which means a few of these will win you the fight. Also, most of the time, the boss will elect to use its normal physical, which does around 100 damage to one party member, and it will telegraph the Straightline Missile (youll see it loading the missile into the chamber). Once the Spiderborg is defeated, Melana will reset the tower controls, undoing what Dynal and his companions have done to it and allowing Shroud to communicate with the rest of Goza. Youll automatically appear at the base of the tower, where Myra and other townspeople thank you. Shroud has already contacted the Gozan government to tell them of Dynals actions, though some cross-agency red tape keeps you from crossing the bridge back to Fenneran. However, the people of Shroud have a nice surprise theyve got a vehicle that can take your party across the marshes. Thats where youre headed next. Pungent MarshCrossing the marsh isnt like crossing the desert, its significantly smaller and youll be able to cross it on your own inside the vehicle. You reach a clearing and are given the option to get out and explore, do so for the chance to look for treasures. You can also meet a family of Kunarian emigrants who have gotten lost in the marshes, you need to look for the other family members, you can get some decent prizes for doing this and youll also be able to find out more about Kunara. Once youre done in the marshes, get back in your vehicle and head up to the north again. Youll end up on the northeastern area of the continent, opening some new areas to you that you can visit before heading up to Cliffpeak (which is the next destination). You can visit Lands End, which is Gozas easternmost point (youre able to see Kunara from there, in fact). Speak with some of the Gozan soldiers there, theyre members of the Goza Advance Corps and they speak highly of their leader Gulrock. You also learn that Kunarian spies have recently been apprehended at the Cliffpeak Quarry. The bridge to the Gozan capital goes over the quarry, but its been closed off due to the presence of the spies. The bridge also leads to territories west of Goza, including Blitzs hometown of Gale (Blitz is somewhat disappointed that the soldiers wont let you through just yet). Once youve finished doing everything you feel you need to do, head to Cliffpeak, the large mountain overlooking the quarry. (NOTE: There should be a couple extra options for the player at this point, but I havent figured out what side quests to put here, so Ill just skip ahead to Cliffpeak) CliffpeakTake a moment to admire some of the most breathtaking architecture and imagery in the game, a massive city built into the side of a cliff overlooking a huge gorge teeming with

industrial machines. Atop the cliff is a massive structure of stone. When youre done gaping at the city, make your way up the lifts and ladders to the various shops and dwellings. You can upgrade most of your equipment here, which youll want to do. When the party visits the mayors office to discuss the events at Shroud, they are directed to the quarry lift. When you head to the lift, soldiers stop the party and tell them that theyre not allowed down. This will trigger a scene where Gulrock and some of his men are riding up in the quarry lift. Gulrock: Those Kunarians think theyre gonna wreck our quarry? Ill smash their heads in! Soldier: Please dont be hasty, were trying to avoid starting a war Gulrock: Im not gonna start a war but Ill damn sure finish one! *sees Melana, Blitz, and the others* Well now, I think Ive heard of you guys. Youre the ones busting up monsters in the quarries, right? Melana: Thats correct. And you would be Gulrock? Gulrock: Oh, so youve heard of me too? Heh Gulrock tells the party that the sightings of Kunarian spies are only rumors, but that hes sure theres something fishy going on. Melana tells Gulrock that she thinks the sightings are only rumors spread by Dynal. Gulrock: Dynal? I never liked that slimy little worm. Whats he up to now? Melana: Since we thrashed and exposed him? Probably in hiding. Gulrock: Figures. *to the guards* Hey, let these guys down into the quarry, theyre all right. Guard: Understood but be careful with them. Gulrock gives the party a tour of the quarry, telling them hes been working overtime trying to handle the reports of Kunarian border incursion. As the scene goes on, Ophi seems to be getting more and more uneasy. After the scene ends, the party can walk around this area (though they cant explore all of the quarry), youll get some interesting dialogue about Gulrocks wife Lucilla and how she loves to make huge meals for the soldiers and the quarry personnel. Theres also a save point which you might want to use. Once youre ready to advance the story, head to the administrative office where Gulrock and the supervisor are waiting. Gulrock wants to sail to Kunara with some men and he wants your party to accompany him, he says that if Kunara is going to spy on them, theyll have to return the favor. Its at this point that an earthquake shakes the area. Gulrock thinks its the Kunarians, but instead, a large group of monsters bursts out of a crack in the side of the mountain, attacking the miners. There are a couple of battles here against some fairly weak monsters, before Gulrock realizes that the crack extends all the way up to the top of the cliff to the large structure atop it. The quakes are originating from there, someone seems to have entered the structure and disturbed something, something that, if it isnt fixed, will cause the whole city to collapse. Its not safe for Gulrocks whole squad to go up, but Blitz and Melana both offer to accompany him up the mountain to check it out. However, Ophi, now in near-nervous breakdown mode, is refusing to go, and Hark refuses to leave her behind. The path to the top of the mountain

will open, return to Cliffpeak proper and head up the path with your new party of Blitz, Melana, and Gulrock. The OverlookAs you approach the large stone structure, Gulrock begins to discuss the history of the structure, it was built by the mountains first inhabitants, an ancient culture who also carved the first dwellings in the side of the cliff. They built the structure to guard against invaders, but internal strife destroyed their culture quicker than any invaders ever could have. The party then enters. The enemies here are probably the toughest youve faced yet, Aerora spells (which Melana should have by now) will be very effective, and Gulrocks mighty axe can deal some major damage as well. After a bit of exploration, theres a scene with Hark and Ophi as they walk along the city streets. Hark: Ophi I know youre scared Ophi: If you all hadnt gotten there when you did, I I wouldve been. *holds her arms in front of her chest* Melana was right, I shouldnt have come! We havent done anything for the people back home, all weve done is helped torment a restless spirit and gather up some stupid rocks! Hark: And we also stopped the people who tried to hurt us from terrorizing a village. Ophi I know its scary, but youre the bravest girl Ive ever met. Ophi: I was practically crying when you came to save me. Youre the brave one, Hark you and Blitz and Melana, youre always jumping in to help people no matter what. I I cant do this anymore, I have toWoman: Hey. Heard arguing out here, you two must be in love, eh? *smiling at them from her doorway* Hark and Ophi: What?! Woman: You both look hungry, come on inside and Ill make you something. After a quick scene, where the woman introduces herself as Lucilla and tells you about her husband Gulrock, she asks Ophi and Hark whats wrong. Hark is protective of Ophi, not wanting to tell Lucilla what happened, but Ophi opens up to her. Lucilla: Those creeps cant believe we let them get so high up in our government. Of course, sneaks will be sneaks. Im sure theyll be punished for their actions. Ophi: Well, at least your husband sounds kind. Lucilla: Hes rough on the outside but hes a big old teddy bear on the inside! Especially around me, hes so sweet! *she giggles* So, about the two of you Youre given control of Blitzs party again. Do a bit more exploring, youll soon come to a dead end. This triggers a return to Lucilla, Hark, and Ophi. Theres another earthquake this time, the monsters are in the town. Ophi is cowering somewhat and Hark is protecting her, a monster is about to kill them both when suddenly, Lucilla rams a huge spear into its gut.

Lucilla: Urrrrrggghhh! *to Hark and Ophi* Cmon, you two, get up and help me! *thrashes several more beasts* Ophi: do you NEED help? Lucilla: No, but itd be nice, hmm? Hark: Ophi, cmon, lets help her out! Ophi: .rright! Theres another monster fight, afterwards theres a scene where Lucilla realizes her husband might need some help and she gets Hark and Ophi to come with her. They enter the understructure of the Overlook, leading to a different area. Lucillas Blue Magic: Lucilla can learn Blue Magic any time she lands a Stagger on an enemy while theyre using the attack she wants to learn (she has to survive the fight as well). Youll want to memorize it first, some attacks are VERY quick and hard to interrupt, though every potential Blue Magic attack (60 in all) has a unique trigger animation where you can have Lucilla try to counter. The stronger spells, of course, tend to have quicker and tougher to interrupt animations. Some attacks are uninterruptable unless you take certain actions first. Heres where youll be split into two parties, you can switch between them to explore different areas of the dungeon. Lucilla, Hark, and Ophi will support Gulrock, Blitz, and Melana by opening up passages for them. Make sure to have both parties collect treasures, theres some good stuff to be had. Eventually, a path will open to the top chamber. Save your game and lead Blitzs party into the big area. A scene will play out where theres a massive quake, causing several collapses that cause rocks to plummet onto some townspeople, forcing most of the people in the quarry up to the town to help out with protecting the citizens (though a few people conspicuously stay behind). Then another scene. Gulrock: there! *he points to a massive cornerstone, which has been shattered* The whole damn things unstable because of this! Blitz: So that means its gonna collapse?! Melana: Yes, Blitz, thats what it means. Gulrock, is there any way to fix it? Gulrock: We cant stop this structure from collapsing but we can cause it to collapse into the quarry and not straight down! The city would survive! Melana: But most of the quarry would be wrecked... Blitz: Its a no-brainer, we protect the people! Melana: Right! Gulrock: Then lets hurry and*A large beast emerges from near the cornerstone, it looks like a cross between a rhinoceros and a mole, a tank-like animal with a huge, slithering tail.* Blitz: What the hell is that?!

*The beast roars, shaking the structure even further.* Gulrock: And here I thought the Kunarians had sabotaged the structure it was this thing! But whered it come from? Blitz: I dont know but I know where its going next! BOSS: Vrogox (HP: 12,000) The Vrogox might seem intimidating, but this is actually a fairly standard boss fight. The boss uses Quakera, which will hit your party for around 200 a piece, at this point that shouldnt be too much of an issue, as Gulrock may be nearing 1,000 HP and Blitz and Melana should be around 700. The Vrogox can swing its tail to bring down pieces of the ceiling and walls on you, thats a slightly more dangerous attack as the damage can vary based on how big a rock hits, a particularly large piece could cause more than 300 damage to everyone, but thats rare, usually youll get small chunks of rubble thatll do around 30-50 to one party member a piece. Aerora works great, other level two spells are just as good, even Quakera if you have to use it. Gulrock and Blitzs attacks will combine for around 1,000 in a combo, and their Full-Force attacks will do that kind of damage individually. Keep your HP above 300 and you shouldnt have any major problems. The defeat of the Vrogox leads to a scene where Gulrock is trying to knock out pieces of the structure so that it will fall into the quarry, but even with Blitz and Melanas help, it seems the whole thing will collapse on top of them, killing them and taking out the town with it. Thats when Lucille, Hark, and Ophi show up to save the day, Lucille helps Gulrock smash up the structure while Ophi uses her magic to push everything forward and give the party a way to escape. Youll automatically head back out to the summit, a safe distance from the collapsing structure as it falls into the quarry (this is an awesome scene). As the quarry personnel all went to help out the townspeople, there are no casualties from the collapse at least it appears at first. Youll reappear down at the quarry, where the supervisor (who survived the collapse) will scold the party, only for a Gozan official to show up and praise them for their heroism, and also reveal that enough of the quarry survived that operations will be able to resume as soon as cleanup is completed. The rubble is already being cleared out two Kunarian corpses are found. This, along with the revelation that the quarrys entire store of Essence was stolen before the collapse, leads to the reveal that there were indeed Kunarian spies at the quarry and that they took advantage of the chaos to steal the quarrys Essence reserves. The Gozan official is furious, stating that it might be time to declare war on Kunara however, with those Essence reserves that were stolen, Kunara would have the advantage in any conflict that occurred. The official decides to return to Centralia, and invites the party to meet him there, as they have a special task they would like the party to help the Gozan government with. Blitz, Hark, and Ophi all seem uneasy, not wanting to escalate a potential war, but Melana wants to continue the mission, and Blitz reluctantly agrees to continue going along with her. Theres then a scene where Gulrock wants to join the party, Lucilla asks to do so as well. Gulrock seems unsure at first, but Lucilla is quite insistent, and you gain two new party members here. The bridge to the northwestern part of the continent is now open (it was undamaged in the collapse), and in fact, pretty much the entire Gozan continent, except for the small area thats not actually part of Goza (the border is still

closed) is open to you. You can even return to Fenneral, there are a couple of new sidequests to do there if youd like. You can cross on your marsh-crossing vehicle, which avoids enemy encounters and is somewhat faster, or you can explore on foot. When youre ready to continue with the storyline, head across the bridge (some lovely scenery here) and make your way to the other side of the continent. The area surrounding Centralia has some new enemies for you to fight, you might want to level up to about 25 here, make sure youre at least level 20 before heading on to Centralia. Theres still some stuff to do yet before the next dungeon (and it is a BIG one) so leveling up now isnt crucial, but you may want to get it out of the way. Youll probably be around 22-23 if you havent been avoiding enemies. CentraliaAs big as Cliffside and Kastith were, theyve got nothing on Centralia. This is the largest city in the game, with a gorgeous steampunk motif and motorcars on floating tracks propelled by magical energy. People are milling about the citys main boulevards and in and out of its buildings. Theres plenty to do in Centralia, and youll be set loose right away, as Melana insists on going to the Gozan central government building alone, leaving Blitz and the others to their own devices. You should head to the shops, anything that you couldnt upgrade in Cliffside is available to be upgraded here, make sure every member of your party has the most up to date set of weapons and armor. Theres chocobo racing in the big dome on the east side of the city, and a coliseum in the same building where you can participate in some fun battle minigames. The prizes available to your party arent great at this stage, and since you cant catch your own chocobos, you can only race in the rental leagues. Still, theres a nice accessory available if you can win the Rental Class Tournament, so you might want to invest some time in racing chocobos if youre interested. The Gozan Military Academy has some advanced battle tutorials, you can get some good equipment if you win (nothing that isnt on sale in the shops, you can save yourself some money by winning here of course). You can visit the Kunarian Embassy for some interesting story-related tidbits, including some backstory with Krynia (she wasnt actually alive yet when her kingdom fell, her parents were very young and they had Krynia 34 years ago, all the older survivors and the others born after the exile died, leaving Krynia as the last alive). Speaking of Krynia, youll need to listen to her speak at the Grand Gozan Library if you want to continue the story. Head to the library, where youll see Krynia already at the podium. Blitz: Shes beautiful Hark: Yeah Ophi: Hey! Gulrock: She looks thin as a rail. I like girls with meat on their bones. Lucilla: Mmm, I doubt she could lift this spear. Blitz: Its not whats outside, but whats inside that counts! Besides, isnt she one of the strongest mages in the world?

*Krynia begins to speak, discussing how her nation of Kunara has progressed greatly since the revolution, and that she holds no ill will toward the Kunarians for what theyve done to her family* Krynia: I know that the drums of war have begun to beat I have received word of Kunarian espionage at the Cliffpeak Quarry. I cannot speak for my fellow Kunarians, but please remember that both nations will benefit greatly from a peaceful world. I dearly hope that Gozans and Kunarians can resolve their differences without resorting to the terrible scourge of war. Blitz: Yeah, you and me both. Ophi: Gulrock, youre a soldier Gulrock: Yeah, so no one wants war less than me. Lucilla: Right Gulrocks job is to prevent a war by ensuring that if Kunara makes the first move, it can be mitigated to such a degree that Goza doesnt need to retaliate. Ophi: Oh, Im glad Gulrock: What, you think I want a war? *laughs* Of course, I cant speak for Melana. Blitz: Huh? *The scene continues a bit longer as Krynia finishes speaking. After her speech, Blitz immediately wants to approach her.* Blitz: Um Lady Krynia? Krynia: *smiling* I appreciate the respect, but please, just call me Krynia. I heard you talking during my speech. Blitz: Oh! Sorry it was probably rude. Krynia: Im glad my words inspire such spirited conversation. Ive heard about all of you. Youre the ones going around helping the miners in the quarries, arent you? Blitz: Yeah, thats us! Hark: Its an honor to meet you. Ophi: Youre amazing! Krynia: Oh my! *giggles* Such high praise Ive done nothing to deserve. The honor is all mine. *she takes Blitzs hands* Truly Blitz: *blushing* The party explains to Krynia about the ghost they met back in the Sorceress Crypt. Krynia states that the ancient war left many wayward spirits looking for peace. Ophi asks if the widespread use of Essence is causing the spirits unrest. Krynia: Essence comes from the magical energy left behind by those who came before us the souls of the departed are entirely separate. Still, the news you give me is troubling I will search for a way to set these souls at rest. I dont get out of my palace much, but if youre ever in Kunara, my familys palace is in an ancient ruin in the northern part of the continent. I live there alone and would very much appreciate visitors. Krynia departs after a short dialogue. When the party leaves the building, guards appear to take them to the Gozan Presidential Palace. There, the president himself addresses the party.

President Bartelan: First, I must thank you for handling the situation in Shroud it was troubling to hear that elements in my own government were plotting to take power in such a deceptive fashion. You have also helped to save the city of Cliffpeak even had the quarry there been a total loss, the loss of lives from such a disaster would have been more than worth averting. It is because of all of this that I believe you can complete an even more ambitious undertaking. Miss del Norte, would you tell your companions what I have told you? Melana: Sir, it would be an honor. We are to excavate the Fortress of Dreia, just to the north of the city of Gale. Blitz, I believe youll like this mission, since it meansBlitz: It means I get to see my family again! My hometown! Melana: *smiles* I knew youd like it. President Bartelan: In exchange for excavating the fortress, Gale has agreed to be annexed into Goza. Well control the entire continent and well be able to focus our military on the matter at hand. We believe war with Kunara is inevitable. Hark: War? Gulrock: Were going to war? President Bartelan: The Essence found in the fortress will prove invaluable to our efforts and will replace the Essence stolen at the quarry. The war council will convene after your successful completion of this mission to discuss our next course of action. Miss del Norte for your success in leading your squad to victory numerous times, Ive arranged to have you promoted within your company. Youve just been named Director of the Southern Expanse Essence Company. Melana: Sir.! This is an incredible honor how did you get them to agree to such a thing? President Bartelan: The promise of lucrative future contracts. The SEEC now has an exclusive commission to provide Essence to Goza. Once the matters at the fortress are complete, youll oversee your company and youll be given a squad of crack Gozan soldiers to conduct recon in Kunaras extensive quarries during the impending war. Melana: This is all so much ththank you sir! Blitz: *has a very uneasy look on his face* Once this scene is concluded, theres another dialogue where Melana tells the party that shell expect nothing less than their best from here on out. Melana rejoins the party, make sure to shop for her if you havent already. Once youve finished up business in Centralia, you can head up to the border into the northwestern territories. Gale is the town on the northwestern coast, the fortress is to the north but you cant go there just yet. Theres also a large farm you can visit, there are some sidequests available here later on, but for now, head into Gale. GaleGale has no weapon or armor shop, so you dont have to worry about buying anything for your party, you might want to replenish their items if they havent done that in a while. Of course, you cant do any shopping just yet because a scene will play out as soon as you enter town, Blitz and the party go immediately to Blitzs parents house and theres a heartfelt reunion scene. Blitzs mom asks if Ophi is Blitzs girlfriend, and theres a

hilarious scene where Blitz and Hark try to dispel the confusion (and you get the feeling that Blitzs mom doesnt like Melana). Blitzs parents offer to let the party stay overnight, doing so will trigger a scene. Melana isnt sleeping, shes outside looking to the north at the fortress off in the distance. Blitz will go outside to talk with her. Blitz: Hey, Melana sorry about my mom, I think you intimidate her. Melana: Like mother like son then. Blitz, youre uncomfortable with my promotion. I can tell. Blitz: Hey, its none of my business. And I think its great you were promoted to director! Its what you always wanted, right? Melana: Of course it is. I just never imagined that Id end up commanding a whole group of soldiers I guess we have to accomplish our mission first, though. The scene continues, the conversation inevitably drifting toward the upcoming war. Blitz: Melana, shouldnt we try to stop the war thats about to happen? Melana: I know a war is bad. But ultimately, wasnt it inevitable? Blitz: Inevitable? Melana: Two powerful nations, both competing over the same resources Hopefully it ends as quickly as possible. Blitz: It shouldnt start to begin with you remember what that ghost told us, dont you? Melana: What happened hundreds of years ago has no bearing on what will happen now. Neither side wants to let the world go up in flames. Goza will strike first and strike hard and Kunara will capitulate. Blitz: What if its a massacre? Or what if Kunara has some big weapon we dont know about? The war could go on for years! Melana: We have our orders, Blitz! Besides, I thought you were the one who wanted to go out and see the world dont you remember? Blitz: I wanted to help people, not hurt them! Melana: This WILL help people. Ill make sure that my squad doesnt commit any crimes against the Kunarian people. Im a Kunarian myself, I know how my people think. Blitz: Do you? You havent been there in fifteen years. MelanaMelana: This discussion is OVER, Blitz. We have our mission and we will accomplish it, am I understood? Blitz: yeah. Okay, Melana. good night. *goes back into the house* Melana: *just stares off at the fortress without a word* The next day, Blitz says his goodbyes to his parents and the group reunites, setting out to the Fortress of Dreia. Fortress of DreiaThe Fortress of Dreia is a massive structure with a door thats sealed shut. The party thinks of various ideas to open the door, finally Ophi reads the inscription on the door and it opens. Ophi used the old witches tongue to decipher the ancient language, the last remnants of one of the languages spoken by the old civilization. As you enter the temple,

Melana notices that the door shows signs of being recently opened. Someone else may be in here with you The fortress has plenty of branching, winding paths and a number of good treasures to find, so spend some time exploring the area and fighting the various enemies here, you should be around level 25 by the time you get out of this place. Once youre done on the first floor, head to the grand plaza on the second floor (you have to solve a couple of puzzles to get up here). Once you reach the grand plaza, there will be a scene. A young woman and several of her companions are exploring the ruins. Alexia: There was supposed to be a lot of Essence here, right? This was one of the great temples of the ancient civilization and Im sensing lots of magical energy. Connor: The essence must be concentrated somewhere Melana: Hey *walks over with the party* What are you all doing here? Ophi: And howd you even get in? Alexia: I should pose the same question to you. wait. We were told there would be Gozan mercenaries here Connor: Mercenaries? Melana: Shes one of the spies who was at the quarry! Look at her adornments, shes got a large amount of Essence on her body! Alexia: Ill handle them, you all stay back. *her hands light up* Hark: Oh crap, shes a witch too? Alexia: I am a mage of Kunara, and I will not allow you to interfere! BOSS: Alexia (8,500 HP) Alexia is a pretty tough customer, she uses the same ara magics that enemies have been using for the past few dungeons, but her magic stat is quite potent and she can easily do hundreds of points damage with a single spell. What you really have to watch out for is her Red Lapis, shell use it soon after her Essence necklace starts to glow. When she starts to use it, put up your Shell spells or try to interrupt her, the attack can do 400+ damage to your entire party, which is devastating if youre underleveled and a serious threat if youve leveled properly (and will be hovering around 1,000 HP). Take Alexia down the same way you take down other bosses, with hard physical attacks. Dont try magic, she usually casts a wall at the start of the fight, and if you have Reflect and try to use it, shell just bounce spells off herself (this WILL stop her from hitting your whole party with Thundara or Firaga, but wont do anything against Red Lapis). Also, have Hark steal her Glimmering Staff if hes in your party, its great for Ophi as it will boost her magic stat significantly. After the fight, theres another scene. Alexia: *staggers back* Ahh! Dammit, theyre too strong!

Gulrock: Youre gonna tell me something right now! Were you and your goons responsible for nearly destroying Cliffside? Alexia: What? The cliff collapse? That nearly killed us too, you fat idiot! How dare you accuse us of trying to take innocent lives! Gulrock: Idiot? Lucilla: You call my husband an idiot again and Ill ram this spear down your throat! Only I get to call him an idiot! Alexia: Youre all idiots if youre trying to help Goza. The Gozans are out to start a war. Theyve sent spies over to our continent for months. Were just returning the favor. Melana: Weve dealt with the spies who were threatening to take over Goza. Now the only threat left is you and your companions. Alexia: Im through with games were leaving. Melana: No youre not. Alexia: *casts a blinding light that temporarily stuns the party long enough for them to escape* Melana: Nnnngh! Blitz: They got away Ophi: Well, at least theyre not getting the Essence, right? Melana: Right. Were getting that Essence for Goza. Now lets go. *The party heads deeper into the fortress, Blitz looking somewhat uneasy* Once you make it past Alexia, theres nothing except another puzzle standing between you and your destination on the third floor. Youll know youre almost at the ceremonial chamber when you see a large curved wall with a small door in front of it, and a save point next to that. Save your game and head into the chamber. The room is adorned with a beautiful, unfinished mural of a great battle. There seem to be even older carvings on the ceiling, depicting the art of a truly ancient civilization, even before the ones who fought in the great war. On the floor are three large, colored stars, one red, one blue, and one green, adorned in a bright pattern on the floor. Melana: Incredible its likely no ones seen the inside of this room for ages Blitz: This is so cool! Ophi: Oh my, look! That painting on the wall must have been done by the ancient Exaltians! Gulrock: Exaltians? Melana: The legendary civilization that once ruled this continent more than 5,000 years ago. On the great continent to the east ruled the Vashyrans, rivals to the Exaltians for control of the world. Their war ripped the planet asunder and destroyed both their civlizations only a few thousand people survived. Ophi: Oh, you know of the legend too? Melana: My mother used to tell me the stories before she died I did the rest of the research on my own. Blitz: Do you know what that on the floor is? *points to it* Melana: No it looks like three stars in a pattern but Im not aware of the significance.

Ophi: Oh! Maybe its on the ceiling? Theres words up there! *squints really hard* Here is the temple of the great Celestriad, gift from the gods, the miracle of magic. Its three stars lie in repose, its power to be shared amongst the peoples of the world. Lucilla: It sounds like something of great power Hark: This thing on the floor, is this the Celestriad? Ophi: No, its only a drawing. The real thing was here though! Someone must have moved it long ago Melana: Well, theres something here. Right under the floor *kneels* I can feel it theres Essence here! Lots of it! This place must have been some kind of vault for all of the Exaltians essence Gulrock: And we just hit the jackpot! Blitz: Im not comfortable with this Melana: What? How could you not be*The room shakes. The ground swells. The party members begin to gasp and shriek.* Blitz: I think theres something else under there besides Essence! *The group leaps back from the center of the room, only for a massive monster with three heads to burst up from the floor, revealing a huge Essence vault below.* Hark: Whatever was guarding that Essence, its still here! BOSS: Tritoch (HP: 21,000) Tritochs power is incredible, this is definitely the toughest boss youve faced so far, and its huge amount of HP will make this a marathon fight. The first thing youll want to know is that this creature ABSORBS fire, ice, and lightning magic. Its vulnerable to water, earth, and wind, though its high magic defense makes those attacks less potent than normal. Youll most likely want a party of Blitz, Gulrock, and Lucilla. Lucilla can use Healing Song, which you should have learned from the Lamia, to heal the party when they need it (and they WILL need it) while Blitz and Gulrock bash away with their weapons. Lucilla can also use Gamma Rays, a non-elemental enemy spell which is more powerful than any spell you probably have so far, it should do about 1,000 to the Tritoch, more in a combo. The Tritoch can use Fira, Blizzara, and Thundara, it can attack physically for a decent amount of damage, and will occasionally have its three heads attack individual party members at the same time, for three blows that will do around 200-300 damage a piece, if they all attack the same person, that person will need immediate healing. The Tritochs heads can combine for an attack called Elemental Punisher, the attack will do around 500 to each member of your party, requiring immediate healing. Though the Tritoch attacks with three heads, youll be fighting it as a single unit, so dont worry about individual head chopping, just hit the beast with everything youve got. Once the Tritoch goes down, theres nothing stopping you from entering the Essence vault. Theres a huge amount of Essence there and the party quickly realizes that with all this Essence at their disposal, Goza would have a huge advantage in the upcoming war. Melana begins to collect it. Blitz objects. He reminds the party that Goza is out for blood and might start a massacre with this much Essence. Gulrock disagrees, but Lucilla urges him to listen to Blitz. Ophi and Hark side with him as well.

Melana: Just what are you all saying? That we should NOT give this to Goza, as per our orders? Blitz: Were here to help people and letting Goza know that all this Essence is here is NOT helping! Melana: Were here on a mission. Were retrieving this Essence for Goza. Do you want those Kunarian spies to come back here and get it? Blitz: We shouldnt let anyone have it, we should trash it, or bury it, or something! Gulrock: I cant believe Im saying this, but Blitz is right, there are people in the Gozan military who I would not trust with this much Essence. Not just those spies, but even some of our own generals. Weve gotta be careful here. Melana: Are you insane? Youd betray your own people? Hark: Melana, Blitz is just trying toMelana: If youre not going to help me, Im taking this Essence to Goza myself. *her hands begin to glow as she collects it around her body* Ophi: Melana, please Gulrock: Should should we stop her? Lucilla: Blitz: Melana, stop it! Stop it right now! Melana: how DARE you tell me what to do! I am your superior officer! Blitz: Were not in the army, Melana! Melana: Im your supervisor and as your supervisor, you will let me complete this mission! Now stand down! Blitz: no, Melana. Melana: what did you say to me? Blitz: I said I wont let you do this! Ophi: Blitz, Melana, please dontMelana: *starts to cast a spell on Blitz* Blitz: *uses Reflect and blocks it, it hits Melana and causes her to slam against the wall, knocking her out* Melana! Hark: is she all right? *They rush to her side shes fine, just knocked out. The Essence glows all around them.* Gulrock: Well what the hell do we do now? Youre given the option to save, then the scene switches to a small hut in an unknown village. Melana awakens, sitting up and looking around. Lucilla is first to greet her. Lucilla: Youre awake.! Melana: Nnnnh? What? *rubbing her head* Lucilla: Dont sit up too quickly. You were hit with a reflected Sleep spell. Melana: Yes, I *she gasps* Blitz! Where is he?! *sounds very angry* Where am I? Lucilla: Were in Kunara. Melana: WHAT?

Lucilla explains that after Melana was knocked out, the group destroyed and buried most of the Essence they found. They knew theyd be fugitives in Goza if they failed their mission, so they decided to quickly catch a boat to the western coast of Kunara. They were now in the small village of Terillif, just south of the Kunarian capital city of Elinal. Melana reacts to the news with a great deal of anger and she demands to see Blitz. Its around this time that Blitz enters the room. Melana nearly attacks him, but holds back, restraining herself from hitting him, but still extremely furious that the ground has seemingly betrayed her. TerillifThe small village has a few houses, an inn, and a general store with nothing new in the way of weaponry. When you try to leave, there will be a scene where Melana refuses to stay with the group any longer. She says shes going back to Goza, despite everyones (especially Ophi and Blitzs) insistence that she stay. Melana leaves the party. Theres plenty of places on this new continent to explore, but theyre all inaccessible at the moment, all except for Elinal, the large city to your north. Head into the city. ElinalElinal, the Kunarian capital, is big, but not quite as big as Centralia. The city is still very impressive, with gorgeous architecture, its magical technology even more advanced than Centralias (think Victorian-style architecture with neon lights and screens and the like). After a quick scene where the party marvels at the city, youre given the chance to explore. Theres some new equipment and more accessories to buy, and some interesting news from various people in the city, many are talking of the impending war with Goza and dont believe Kunara has done anything wrong. When youre ready to continue, head to the Palace of Administration. The guards will halt you, one identifies the party as the ones who have been helping Goza. However, when an officer is called to escort you to prison, the officer reveals that the Prime Minister wants to see the party, and you are led to the Hall of Ministry. Here, you meet Vignus. Vignus: Ah so you are the warriors who have brought such fortune to Goza. I was made aware that you fled Goza for our shores some time ago or perhaps youre here on a mission to destroy us? Blitz: Were here because we know about the upcoming war. We want to help avert it. Vignus: I see. Rest assured, Kunara does not want war. We cannot say the same for the warmongers from Goza. Gulrock: Warmongers? Now see hereLucilla: Gulrock! Vignus: Of course, we know there are many from Goza who also wish for peace. You seem sincere enough. Ophi: We really wanna help! Zukan: Hmm allow me to test them, my lord. I have a task these people may be able to achieve.

Vignus: Ah, of course. Zukan: There is a fugitive, a man who fled the Academy of Magic with some sensitive information. He is exceptionally dangerous and wishes to spark war. He has holed up in an abandoned castle to the south of the city. If you are truly who you say you are, you will deal with this man. Blitz: Deal with him? Zukan: You know what I mean. Blitz: Yeah Having been given your task, its now time to head to the south, to the castle Zukan described. Take a bit of time to battle the local monsters if you wish, the Affinity Map should be giving some more substantial bonuses by now, your HP and other stats will start rising more and more rapidly at this point. That should help you quite a bit in the next dungeon. Artemis KeepThis dungeon is pretty straightforward, it may look imposing but there arent any traps or puzzles, its just a pretty easy path to the castle throne room. The monsters here can use some decently powerful magic, so make sure you kill them quickly. Eventually, you reach the throne room, where the fugitive mage is waiting. Artemis: So youre the next group of fools that bastard Zukan has sent to exterminate me Blitz: He told us youre a dangerous criminal! Artemis: And you believe him? *smirks* You really are fools well, he was right about one thing. I am quite dangerous. *his hands glow brightly with red glyphs* Guardians, come forth! Punish these intruders! Ophi: Guardians? You mean hes a summoner? Blitz: Summoner? Ophi: This isnt good! BOSS: Artemis You dont actually fight Artemis in this battle. Instead, you fight his three summoned Guardians, one by one. The first to be fought is Shiva (HP: 5,500). Shiva can use the standard Blizzard attacks, she also has a twirling physical attack that can do a small amount of damage to all of your party members. She of course has Diamond Dust, youll see a charge meter for it and when it fills, the attack will be unleashed. If it hits, itll do around 500 damage to all of your party members, so preferably, you should kill Shiva before it hits. Once Shivas taken out, Ramuh (HP: 6,100) immediately follows. Same as Shiva pretty much, he has Thunder, Thundara, and a nasty Judgment Bolt. His physical, however, is pretty weak, though he can hit the party with some nasty status effects with his Progression of State attack, it can hit your party members with Mute, Poison, and Slow all at once. Make sure you get rid of these status effects before you finish Ramuh off. Once Ramuh is gone, out comes Ifrit (HP: 7,500). Ifrit is quite dangerous, he packs

fierce physicals, a nasty Meteor Drop attack that can do devastating damage to a single party member, and of course theres also Inferno, which does major fire-type damage to your whole party. Once Ifrit is gone, Artemis is left drained and exhausted. Ophi: Are you finished summoning those poor creatures to do your bidding, you evil man? Artemis: *growling* Youre making a big mistake Gulrock: Blitz, lets finish this guy off. Artemis: *smirks* Guess this is it, then *bows his head* Blitz: wait. Whats your problem with Zukan, anyway? Artemis: You wouldnt understand. Or believe me. Blitz: Maybe we would. Lucilla: Huh? Hark: Blitz, this guy just tried to kill us! Blitz: Yeah, but we did attack him in his castle. Who else has he tried to kill? Artemis: Zukan, for one. Bastard had it coming, though Blitz: But hes the Archmage of Kunara! Artemis: Precisely Gulrock: I still say we shouldnt believe a thing this guy says. Blitz: Right now its his word against Zukans I dont really know who to believe and I dont have proof from either side, but right now I have no real reason to believe this guy is evil. Artemis: I can get you the proof that Zukan is plotting to wage war on Goza hes trying to escalate everything, hes playing Vignus for a fool. Blitz: Okay well give you a chance to get the proof. Lucilla: Blitz, be careful Artemis explains that his power was significantly drained by summoning three Guardians at once. He says that in order to use his summoning powers again, he needs to assimilate the services of another guardian. He says that the Shrine of Titan is on an island to the south, and that hes tunneled a cave under the castle that leads to the Shrine. He cant beat Titan on his own, and he joins the party at this point. Artemis is a powerful magic user, though he learns magic somewhat differently from the rest of the party. He has no magic on his Affinity Tree, he instead gains magic through the regular use of his summons. Each summon comes equipped with several spells, the more Artemis uses a summon in battle (cast the same as a spell), he makes progress toward learning white and black magic spells. You can equip three summons to Artemis at once, there are 16 to gain in all (nine through the main story, seven through optional quests). The monsters will be cleared from Artemis Keep at this point, you can access the basement via a key Artemis uses on the door. The basement leads to a short tunnel (there ARE monsters in the tunnel), youll find a save point before entering Titans Shrine. Shrine of Titan-

The Shrine of Titan isnt a dungeon, you can pretty much just walk right up and challenge Titan. You must have Blitz and Artemis in your party for this, for the third party member Id choose Ophi (who should have Aerora by now, Aerora will RIP into Titan). Titan confronts you and demands you battle him to prove your worth. Oblige him. BOSS: Titan (15,000 HP) Titan is big and nasty, his regular physical attack is capable of doing more than 500 HP worth of damage, and of course hell unleash Quake and Quakera. Hell strike a pose before using his big Gaias Wrath attack. Note that I havent said to use Float for this fight. If you use Float, Titan will get enraged and use Slapdown for massive damage and a wipe of your Float status, you pretty much have to stand there and take the attacks Titan dishes out. Keep yourself healed and have Ophi use Aeroga. Though Artemis doesnt have any magic at this point, his gun does a decent amount of damage, and you can use it to bolster Blitzs strong attacks. You can also have Artemis use healing items on your party while Blitz and Ophi (or whoever else you use) combine their attacks. Soon enough, Titan will fall. Once Titan is defeated, youll gain his services to use with Artemis, Artemis will also regain the use of his other summons. Theres then a scene where Artemis asks the party to take him back to Elinal, hell do the rest. Id take the time to have Artemis learn some magic at this point, you shouldnt have to do too much battling for Artemis to learn his second level elemental magics, giving you an alternate magic user in addition to Ophi (Artemis base magic stat and Affinity Tree give him stronger black magic than Ophi, though Ophis white magic is still stronger). Elinal, Academy of MagicYoull sneak back into the city, and Artemis will automatically take you to the Academy of Magic. Make your way inside and head up to the third floor, theres nothing really eventful until you reach that floor. Once you reach the third floor, Artemis will detect the presence of Essence activity and rogue spirits. This floor is like a small dungeon, youll have to fight Flans and Spirits on this floor, requiring the use of magic in most fights (again, Id use Ophi and Artemis for the most part here, though Lucilla can also be helpful if shes learned some good enemy skills). Eventually, youll find the archives, where Artemis locates a crystal of Essence. Artemis: The residue of Zukans dark deeds is imprinted into this Essence crystal *hands it to Blitz* Blitz: This is the evidence? I dont see anything here Ophi: Wait *takes the crystal and closes her eyes* The view is fuzzy, but I can see Zukan here. *During this scene, Artemis memories are flashed briefly on the screen. There is Zukan with a young Artemis and a girl that looks like a younger Alexia. Zukan seems to be

teaching Artemis and Alexia a magic lesson. Hes using a spell on something thats moving, though we dont see exactly what. Ophi hears a scream.* Ophi: What was that? Artemis: Zukan tests magic on people hes captured, taken from the dregs of society. Live test subjects some from this very city. Theres a woman who has witnessed these deeds, but she refuses to help me stop him. No one wants to stop him. Everyone reveres him fears him or both. Blitz: So you finally got fed up with it and left? Artemis: I waited far too long. *clenches his fists* I was a coward Hark: Guys, we should probably get out of here if were caught here Blitz: Right lets regroup outside the city somewhere The scene then switches to outside of Elinal. Artemis and Blitz decide that its no longer safe in the city. Instead, Artemis tells the group of a large Essence mine to the north, the only large mine in Kunara, where the vast majority of the Essence that Kunara gets is mined. He says that the director of the mine is an old friend and that hell do anything to help prevent a war. Blitz knows that the mine will probably be a target of Gozan agents, so the party decides to head there as soon as they can before the Essence at the mine is endangered. Head north of Elinal for a while. When you near the town of Antane, there will be a scene. The town is being occupied by Gozan soldiers. Blitz wants to help the town and the party automatically enters. AntaneGozan patrols pace in the streets, forcing people back into the homes. Some of the soldiers are bullying a group of children. Blitz immediately approaches and demands to know what theyre doing. This triggers a quick battle between the party and three soldiers, they shouldnt be that hard to dispatch. Youre now given control of the party, you cant do any shopping or anything else but head north, as soldiers will be blocking your path (you can also engage in random encounters with soldiers at this time). Eventually, there will be another scene. A person clad in Gozan military armor, who appears to be the squads leader, is giving orders. Leader: Dont harm the townspeople, just make sure everyone stays inside so we can set up a base here without interference. Soldier: Yes maam. *leaves* Blitz: Wait a second Melana? Melana: *turns to see the party approaching* Well, if it isnt the traitor. Blitz: What? Hark: Melana, its us! Ophi: Your friends! Blitz: Besides, were not Gozans in the first place! How could we betray a nation that we dont even belong to? Melana: You didnt betray Goza, you betrayed me.

Dynal: Ah, there they are. Figured they wouldnt be too far behind us. Ophi: *gasps* Hark: Youre working with HIM?! *All four of Dynals subordinates surround Melana.* Dynal: Surprised to see us? Blitz: Werent you all supposed to be executed, or something? Melana: They were reassigned to my command. Ophi: Melana, I cant believe youd work with them! Hark: After what they tried to do to us? To Ophi? Melana: They work under me. I boss them around. Its fun. Dynal: *grumbles* Gelna: Allow me to handle them, maam. Melana: Fine. Everyone else, were headed to the mine. Blitz: Wait! *Gelna stops the party from pursuing Melana* Gelna: Thats as far as you go BOSS: Gelna (HP: 12,000) Gelnas not too tough of a customer (certainly easier than Titan was), though that big cannon hes carrying could spell trouble. Handle Gelna like you usually do, hit him with a steady stream of powerful physical attacks and your best magic. Gelnas strongest attack is the Gelnashot, a big blast to a single party member that usually does around 600 damage. Just heal after he uses it and youll be fine. After the battle, Gelna retreats from the town, along with the other soldiers. Antane may be liberated, but the Gozans are still headed for the mine. The people of Antane show their gratitude, and you can hit the shops for some new equipment (not too much to buy here, though the Chill Helms are nice, you can upgrade them to Coldproof Helms with some Ice Crystals for immunity to the ice attacks that the monsters in the next dungeon like to use). Theres not too much else to do here, so keep on truckin. To the north is the massive Crystal Cave complex, Kunaras main source of Essence. Youll enter through the administration area. Crystal Cave MineThe administration area of the mine is set up a lot like an underground town. The mines director, Cid, will greet you. Hell report that some Gozans were spotted near one of the emergency tunnels trying to work their way in, they tussled with the guards and easily defeated them. He doesnt know where the Gozans are now but he could definitely use some help getting rid of them. Theres also been a monster infestation recently, keeping most of the miners out of the main areas of the cave, which is where the Gozans were spotted. Guess where your next dungeon is? The sprawling cave complex of the extraction area of the mine is lined with beautiful, shimmering crystal walls (hence the name). Most of the enemies in the mine are ice-

based creatures, though youll also run up against some Gozan soldiers. Summoning Ifrit is a good way to clear parties of ice creatures quickly, though youll need to keep Artemis MP up. After you go a ways through the mine, the party will hear some voices in conversation. Alexia: The Gozans went this way, didnt they? Connor: I think so, but theyve got to be a lot deeper in the mine by now. Alexia: Dammit, we have to find them before they get to the essence, or wereBlitz: You guys are here too? Alexia: Huh? *turns* You again? Pulim: Are they the Gozans that were spotted? Alexia: No, the ones spotted coming into the mines had Gozan military armor, these are just the fools from the fortress. wait a minute, someones missing. Blitz: Yeah Melana. Ophi: You know those Gozans you guys spotted coming into the cave? Shes their leader. Alexia: Oh really? So youre here to help her then? Artemis: You know Id never help Gozans take Essence thats rightfully ours. *steps forward. Alexia: Artemis? Youre with these people? Artemis: We share the same goals mostly. Alexia: So were enemies now? Gulrock: Were not enemies, as long as you dont call us fools again. Were both trying to stop Melana. Its a long story. Artemis: Were trying to stop a war. Alexia, you know Zukan is doing everything he can to escalate all of this. Alexia: Perhaps, but Goza started it. Theres a brief argument between Artemis and Alexia, which Blitz resolves by asking Alexia for her help. Its clear Artemis and Alexia are somewhat fond of each other, despite their estrangement as of recent. Alexia: So you guys are here to stop Melana? Is she still your friend? Blitz: I hope so Lucilla: Either way, we have to find her squad first. Alexia: Right Alexia produces a crystal. Alexia: Our squad wasnt in Goza just to steal Essence, we were there to spy on their activities. We found something of great interest maybe itll help you more than it helps us. Artemis: Alexia I know youre loyal to Kunara, and so am I, but the people at the top are driving our nation into ruin. You have to realize this. Alexia: ...*says nothing and walks away with her squad* Artemis: . Blitz: Lets go.

Ophi: Arent you gonna see whats on the crystal? Blitz: Theres no time, we have to find Melana before she does something she wont be able to undo! Continue on through the cave. There will soon be another scene once you reach a large chamber. Melana: *attempting to power up a large excavation mecha* Dynal: Hey, lemme have a crack at that thing, maybe I can get it working again! Melana: I guarantee you cant. Gelna: Perhaps I couldBlitz: Melana! *runs over with the party* Melana: Dammit! *she manages to get the excavator powered up* stall them, Im going for the Essence veins. Blitz: Melana, no! Dynal: Hehehehe, looks like its playtime Blitz: fine! We kicked your butts before and we can do it again! Hark: *looks over at Ophi, who steels herself and has a determined look on her face* Dynal: *suddenly deploys a device that hits the group with a paralyzing electrical burst, rendering them helpless* This time I aint playin around! *laughs* Blitz: Aaaah! *collapses* Lucilla: Nnnhhh! What did he just hit us with? Ophi: I cant move! Dynal: Good *smiles and walks over to her* Now we can have our fun Ophi: *her hand clenches around her staff* Im not afraid of you, not anymore! Dynal: I can fix that. *smiles, and suddenly is struck by a magical energy burst* Aaaah! *Dynals companions are attacked as well* Alexia: *runs over with her squad* Dont worry, weve got these guys! Blitz: Alexia? *starting to regain movement* Alexia: Well handle them, just go! *The party recovers and goes after Melana Artemis stops for a moment* Artemis: Alexia Alexia: *smiles at Artemis* Thank you. Artemis: ? Alexia: You need to hurry, its all right. *she blasts Dynal back* *Artemis exits as well* Continue on until you reach a save point. Youll definitely want to save here, the next boss is quite fearsome. Enter the next chamber and youll see Melana approaching the Essence veins. Blitz: Melana, stop it! Stop it right now! Why are you helping Goza? Melana: Why are you helping Kunara? *turns around, hopping out of the mecha* We were all in this together, werent we? Ophi: Yeah, so why did you leave us?

Melana: This is what I was meant to do. Ive worked my whole life to become director of the SEEC. I might be made a Gozan general. Once Im a general I can work to make sure that this war will end quickly and without a massive loss of life! You saw what I did back in that town, I made sure the soldiers didnt hurt any of the townspeople! Blitz: You cant stop them all. You think theyll make you commander of the whole army? You cant control what the others do! You think theyre all as good-hearted as you? Artemis: From what I can tell, this woman isnt good-hearted at all. She needs to die like the rest of the Gozan scum. Melana: Oh, so THATS who youve replaced me with. You sure made a fine choice, Blitz. Blitz: Hes wrong, Melana! Youre not bad or evil, youre just wrong right now! Youre the bravest, smartest, best person I know, andMelana: Save it, Blitz. If you keep getting in my way, Ill just have to deal with you all of you. *climbs into the mecha, which has an array of weapons and is advancing toward the party* Ophi: Melana, no! Blitz: Melana, I wont fight you! I refuse! Melana: Good. Itll be easier for me to keep you out of the way then. *The mecha keeps advancing, forcing the party back. Everyone begins to get ready to fight including, reluctantly, Blitz.* BOSS: Excavator (28,840 HP) The Excavator is a massive machine capable of causing massive damage to your party. Its base attack is a blow that will do about 300 HP of damage to one member of your party, more if their defense is weak. The drill can do about twice that. The Excavator can also rain missiles down on your party members, for between 400-800 damage to each person in some cases. Needless to say, this will be a war. You should definitely have Ophi and Artemis in the party, their Thunder-based attacks will hit the Excavators weak spot. If Ophi has Thundaga by now, it will make this fight massively easier and much quicker. As you damage the Excavator, it will begin sparking and smoking more and more, and will become capable of a devastating finishing attack called the Area Bomb. It will count down and show a large red circle where the attack will hit, youll want to stop attacking and move everyone outside the circle (of course, the circle follows your characters, so that might make this somewhat difficult). Anyone caught in the circle will be hit by the attack and will take at least 1,000 points of damage, which will probably put you in the red (though battling the monsters of the mine may have some party members at or exceeding 2,000 HP by now). Eventually, youll win and the machine will come apart, Melana will fall to the ground. Melana: *breathing heavily* Blitz: Melana? Melana, are youMelana: *passes out* Blitz: *catches her in his arms* Shes hurt, Ophi, help me heal her! Artemis: I still say we should kill her.

Gulrock: Nah might want to at least chain her up before she wakes up, though. Blitz: *ignores them* Melana Cid: *comes over* Whoo! Heard a big ol ruckus and came over to check it out looks like you guys took out the head honcho! Er, head honchess. Is that how ya say it? Blitz: *briefly allows Melana to lay on the ground and turns to Cid* Hey Cid, are the Gozans cleared out of the mine? Cid: Yep! The mines Gozan-free thanks to you guys! Artemis: what about Alexia? Are she and the others all right? Cid: That girl? She and her friends gave those guys a thrashin! Left in a big hurry though, asked me to give ya this. *hands over another crystal* Artemis: *sends some energy though it, activating a message* Alexia: Ah, that fight was the most fun Ive had since our days at the Academy together! But I digress. Artemis, Blitz, all of you Im sorry for the trouble we caused before. Im still skeptical about Zukan, but I know where I might be able to find some answers about all of this. Well meet again as soon as Ive got everything straightened out. Artemis we might have had our disagreements before, but know that I never forgot about you and I never believed you would turn on Kunara. I look forward to our next friendly duel. Good luck. Artemis: And you as well, Alexia Blitz: Maybe its time I looked at this thing *holds up the crystal Alexia gave him earlier, only for Melana to snatch it away* Melana: Whatever this is, I wont let you have it! *she begins to stumble away, breaking into a run for the cave exit* Blitz: Melana, wait! Cid: What would she want with a recording crystal anyway? Hark: Shes probably just trying to piss us off Gulrock: Well, its working! Blitz: Melana! Melana exits the cave via the north emergency vent and runs across a long, snowy field as the group chases after her, Blitz at the lead. Finally, as the group makes their way to what appears to be an abandoned town, Melana suddenly stops and looks around. She doesnt turn, but continues to stand there, staring out into space. Gulrock: Uh, whyd she stop? Lucilla: Maybe shes tired Ophi: What is this place, anyway? It looks like no ones been here in years Artemis: This is the village of Arrity. Fifteen years ago, it was inexplicably struck by a plague of unknown origin. The plague killed 95 percent of the people in the village. The survivors didnt bother trying to rebuild, they simply packed up and left. Blitz: this this is Melanasthis is where she was born Arrity*Melana looks around, speechless.* Melana: *the crystal in her hands begins to glow* !!!

Blitz: Melana! Melana: Stay back! *shaking* No one come near me right now *she looks into the crystal* What is this? *The crystal shows images of a Gozan agent in Arrity hes holding something in his hands.* Melana: A Gozan soldier? Here? *The soldier releases something into the air, then slips away, swiftly exiting the village. The first few people nearby begin to cough. Melanas eyes widen.* Blitz: *seeing this too, along with the others in the party* Couldnt be! Artemis: Even the high council didnt believe Goza was responsible! Deploying a biological weapon is an act of war Melana: *she falls to her knees* The Gozans killed my parents killed almost everyone here and I actually helped them!! What have I done? Blitz: Melana! *runs to her* You didnt know any of this, none of us did! Melana: How could I have worked for the same people who murdered my parents? People who killed innocent children Melana begins to sob while Blitz calms her down. The scene continues, its very emotional, with Melana begging for forgiveness as the others surround her. Melana: Ive been such a fool so caught up in myself that I didnt care who I was helping as long as I got ahead I betrayed my best friends my only friends Blitz: *helps Melana to her feet* Hey youre not the only one whos done something stupid. Melana: Artemis is right, perhaps you should kill me. Artemis: that will be up to Blitz to decide. Blitz: No ones killing anyone. Melana, if you want to help us, you can help us stop this war. There are people on both sides who are doing horrible things. Were going to stop them Melana: I want the Gozans to pay for what they did but I cant let my anger consume me. Blitz, II trust your judgment. You lead. I just need to clear my head right now, everything feels so strange Blitz: Its all right, Melana. Youre probably still weak from the battle. You dont have to fight. Not right now. After the scenes are over, you can explore the village for treasures, there are a few fairly good ones. Melana wont be able to join the active party. In fact, you wont be able to include her in the party for a little while yet. Youll see why very soon. Exit the village and continue north. Theres a forested area to the northeast, but a powerful wind is blocking it at the moment. Instead, head for the small hut to the north. Before you can even see it on the world map, theres another scene. The party is walking along the road when Melana suddenly falls. She seems to be sick, terribly so. The party realizes that they need to get her somewhere she can rest, and the hut to the north seems like a good place. Head inside, its empty or at least it seems that way.

Sanathris DwellingWhen you enter the dwelling, another scene begins. Blitz: Hello? Is anyone here? Ophi: One of us is very sick, we need*An old lady drops down in front of the party. Several of them gasp.* Sanathri: *laughing* Did I give you all a start? Well, you shouldnt go barging into peoples homes, now should you? Hark: Were sorry! Blitz: Please, we need your help! Sanathri: *looking around* Such handsome young men *walks over to Hark, doing a sexy walk for him* Yes, yes, youre a cute one arent you? Hark: Aaaah! What are you doing? Sanathri: Hmm? Oh, dont tell me you already have a girlfriend. Thats disappointing. Hark: Is she kidding? Blitz: Please, help us! Melana here is extremely sick! Sanathri: hmmm *looks Melana over* oh me oh my this is very very serious indeed. Its the Arrity Plague, that it is. Lucilla: Huh? Blitz: But wait, Melana, you said you were immune to it! Melana: Arent I? *coughs* Sanathri: Ive studied this plague, yes oh yes I have. Seems it has a latent period for some people who are seemingly immune, when they return to the site of the plague after some time, the latent parts of the disease spring to life and infect the victim! As a weaponized disease, this would be a useful function. Artemis: When survivors return to mourn the dead, they get infected as well Lucilla: thats hideous! Blitz: But isnt the Arrity Plague incurable? Sanathri: Mmm, by design yes, though Ive had fifteen years to come up with an antidote for it, and I have! The formulas up in the attic, would you like to see? Melana: Do you have any of the antidote on you? Sanathri: Ive got all the ingredients needed right here! Well, except for one. Its a tricky one, its in the Frozen Forest to the east of here oh, but a fierce wind blows through that forest, going inside will be quite difficult. Sanathri explains that youll need to go into the forest for the last ingredient needed to cure Melana. She volunteers to accompany you and joins the party. Melana, of course, must be left in the hut, and someone must stay behind with her. Blitz volunteers and leaves your party, meaning for the first time in the game, youll have to use a party without Blitz. I recommend Gulrock, Ophi, and Artemis, but any combination will work. Head to the east now and enter the forest. Frozen Forest-

The wind that once repelled you has died down a bit, though it still blows through at a fierce clip. Youll need to complete several wind-related puzzles to get through the forest. Nothing too difficult, navigating this area is in a lot of ways like how Death Peak was navigated in Chrono Trigger. Also, while you go through the forest, some scenes will play back at Sanathris Dwelling, showing Blitz and Melana together. The most significant of the scenes will play right before you enter the boss lair. Melana: *screams in pain as the plagues grip on her intensifies* Blitz: Melana! Itll be okay cmon now *goes over to her with some water* Drink this its not the antidote but its something. Melana: Im not really thirsty *she smiles* I guess if this really is the end, I brought it on myself. Blitz: Melana, no! Dont EVER say something like that, you hear me? *grabs her by the wrists* You cant think that and when you get better, youre going to lead us. Youre a better leader than I could ever be. Melana! Melana: Oh, Blitz I dont think you appreciate just how strong you are. Even back at the quarry, you were always the one who got the most Essence, you always took every new worker under your wing if I didnt have you working under me, I wouldnt have been made supervisor you were always so giving *she coughs again* Blitz: Melana... from the moment I met you, IMelana: You loved me? Is that what you wanted to tell me? Blitz: you knew? Melana: Youreway too easy to read, Blitz. I Ive never felt that way. Blitz: I know that. Melana: But I have always admired you. For who you are for what you do... I *she goes limp, and her eyes close* Blitz: Melana Melana! *shakes her feels her pulse* Shes still alive but come on, guys, you have to hurry The scene switches back to the rest of the party. In this area theres a save. Use it and head up another screen, youll see the thing causing the winds. *The party rushes into the center of the forest, where a massive creature with a huge horn-type opening on its face is spewing wind in all directions.* Artemis: *rushes up* I recognize that creature! Its a Guardian! Gulrock: Like a summon guardian? Ophi: But whats it doing here? Artemis: Titans defeat must have stirred it from slumber. Aeolus and Titan have been rivals for as long as the world existed. Hark: So now it wants to fight its rival? Artemis: That can certainly be arranged! Hark: Dont worry, Melana, well have that ingredient soon! BOSS: Aeolus (HP: 20,000)

Aeolus is a fierce beast to be sure, but it isnt too much tougher than Titan. It attacks with its fists and with its wind attacks, its winds can push back the party and deal damage at the same time, causing multiple hits in succession. Its most powerful attack is its Cyclonic Vortex, which deals about eight hits to each party member for 75-100 damage a piece. You should be having Artemis use Titan every turn he can, regularly replenishing his MP. Gaias Wrath should do around 3,000 to Aeolus, while Ophis Quakera (you wont have Quakega at this point unless youre MASSIVELY overleveled) will deal around 2,000. Between those two attacks and Gulrocks physical, Aeolus will fall pretty quickly, just remember to heal after Cyclonic Vortex. Aeolus assimilation into Artemis roster of summons will cause the winds in the forest to die down, clearing the path to the Subzero Herb that is the last ingredient of the antidote to Melanas illness. Youll automatically return to Sanathris Dwelling to administer the antidote to Melana just in time. Melana recovers and returns to fighting shape, she seems emotionally recovered as well, as she confidently takes charge of the group (Artemis still doesnt trust her, though). Blitz: Melana? Uh what were you about to say to me before you passed out? Melana: Hmm? Blitz: You know, for who you are, for what you do, I Melana: I admire you, Blitz. I told you. thank you for keeping me safe here and bringing me back to my senses. Now everyone, lets move out! Blitz: right! Hark: *smiling* you were hoping shed say I love you, right? Blitz: What? No I mean she doesnt! Hark: Did you tell her you loved her? Blitz: Yeahbut she knew already. Ophi: *giggles* EVERYBODY knew that! Gulrock: Yeah, kid, we could all tell. Lucilla: Love is pretty much the easiest emotion to read. I remember when Gulrock first had that look on his face. Mmmm Blitz: how can you guys all tell and I cant? Seriously? Guys? Come on! After leaving Sanathris dwelling, the group discusses their next destination. Blitz and Melana both think that visiting Krynias castle is the best bet, though Artemis says that her castle is on an island and unreachable except by boat and no boats go out there. There is, however, a harbor town to the north where it might be possible to charter a boat. Thats your next place to go. LutamiaThe port town of Lutamia, on Kunaras harsh northern coast, is the next place to go. The town is a cold-water port, its buildings made of stone to protect against the harsh conditions. And when you arrive, the towns already under siege. Melana: Gozan soldiers, here too?

Blitz: You gotta be kidding me! Gulrock: Damn, looks to me like a full-scale invasion force! Once again, youre forced to fight in the streets, though the shops (which sell some decent equipment) are all open. Youll learn that the harbor is being blockaded by some Gozan ships, led by a familiar commander. Dynal is leading the blockade, and youll need to head to the harbor and fight ship to ship to reach him, hes on the Gozan flagship all the way at the end of the line. None of the soldiers blocking your path are too tough, though the chained creatures they bring along with them pack a powerful punch. Youll finally run up against Dynal and his goons on the deck of the flagship. Dynal: Oh, so youve betrayed us too? *laughing* Seriously, you cant trust this girl, her loyalties change like the winds! Melana: Shut it, Dynal! It took my friends to make me realize what a fool Ive been Im giving you one chance to surrender, then we kick your ass all over this boat! Blitz: Yeah, you tell him, Melana! Dynal: *laughing* You think you can stop me? Ive got dozens of soldiers on my side, so bring it on! BOSS: Dynal (HP: 16,800) Your objective is to kill Dynal, but hes surrounded by regenerating waves of soldiers, and you cant touch him while there are soldiers on the field. Basically, the best thing to do is use an area attack to clear out the soldiers, allowing yourself a few hits on Dynal before the soldiers return. Dynal isnt that strong of an attacker, hell use a Tricky Stab attack that does around 500 to a single character, but thats the biggest threat from him. The fight is more of an annoyance than anything, perfectly appropriate considering the character. After Dynal is beaten, he stumbles back, angrily shaking his fists at the group. Dynal: You think youve heard the last of me, youve got another thing coming! *leaps off the boat and swims through icy waters to a waiting speedboat his companions are driving* s-s-s-s-s-so cold!!!! Artemis: Perhaps I should summon something to capsize that vessel? Melana: No we got rid of the threat to the town. I doubt he tries to mess with us again after that thumping we gave him. Artemis: .*says nothing* The blockade is dispersed and Lutamia is liberated. The proprietor of the shipyard is grateful, but isnt willing to part with one of his boats. Thats when Sanathri works her charms on him in a scene, the two of them seem to go way back, and she manages to woo him into giving up a boat. Your business is Lutamia is concluded, its time to hit the high seas!

Now that you have a boat, the vast majority of the world is open to you. There are still some closed-off places you cant reach at the moment, but several islands just opened up, along with the southeastern peninsula of the Kunarian continent. This area consists of an isolated village and a deep cave where you can find the Mist Guardian for Artemis, similar to the Mist Summon from Final Fantasy IV. It uses a powerful non-elemental attack on enemies, and when Artemis uses it, he can gain several healing spells with enough uses. Cave of Clouded SightThe Cave of Clouded Sight is where the Mist summon lies, its a fairly straightforward dungeon with some nice treasures off the beaten path, including the Azimuth Dress, which Melana, Ophi, or Lucilla can wear and not have to worry about armor again for several more dungeons. Eventually, youll reach a save point and the boss. The Mist Dragon will coalesce and after a brief cutscene, the fight will begin. BOSS (optional): Mist Dragon (HP: 30,200) The Mist Dragon will probably be the toughest boss youve fought so far if you undertake this quest right after first getting the boat. It starts out intangible and will only rarely come into full form so you can hit it, meanwhile its hitting you with powerful attacks, its Mist Breath special will hit everyone in the party for around 1,000 damage. For this fight, youll want to start out by buffing your party with Regen and Shell. Protect is optional, the Mist Dragon can only physically attack you when its tangible and its physical attack isnt very strong. Once youre all buffed and the monster makes itself vulnerable, hit with everyone youve got until it goes intangible again. Rinse and repeat and soon Artemis will have his sixth (or more if you fight this boss later on) summon Guardian. There are other side quests available at this point, and a couple of good places to grind have opened up as well. You might want to be at level 35 before moving on, though that may be overkill. Once youre satisfied with your exploration, head northeast of the Kunarian continent, there will be a small island. Sylvid Castle is at the center of the island. Sylvid CastleTake some time to admire the beautiful castle, its one of the prettiest locations in the game. When you enter the building itself, Krynia will greet you and invite you to eat with her. Youll automatically enter the dining room, and a scene will begin. The party discusses the current state of affairs with her, the Gozan invasion seems to have begun and both nations are heading inexorably toward war. Blitz mentions the Celestriad to her. Krynia: I already know of this Celestriad Melana: Do you know when it was moved?

Krynia: It is a story passed down to me from my family, all members of the Sylvid royal family knew the tale. The Celestriad was used in the great war, first by the Vashyrians, and then by the Exaltians. When both sides were near destruction, a hero emerged to seize the Celestriad, hoping to stop the war by using its power to pacify both sides. Blitz: Whoa! He straight up stole it? Hark: Thats pretty brash Krynia: He attempted to use it but could not contain its power. It shattered into three pieces that fell on all sides of the world. The two rival nations continued their war until both were destroyed. Melana: And so now the Celestriad is dormant? Krynia: Not exactly you see, in the intervening millennia between the Great War and the rise of the current nations, the three pieces of the Celestriad each radiated great power into the earth. Out of the red star rose a towering volcanic island the green star birthed a beautiful forest and the blue star gave rise to a great underwater city, the final bastion of civilization, isolated from the wars and terror that had shook the planet. The civilization eventually died out, leaving the city a lifeless ruin. Artemis: So the three pieces of the Celestriad are just lyin around out there. Krynia: Yes, though very few people actually know of them and only I knew the locations of all three. At least until I told all of you. Blitz: Why did you tell us? Krynia: So you know where Goza and Kunara may try to look. my family was brutalized by the Kunarian regime. My grandparents were tortured for the location of the Celestriad, but they refused to give up its location. Yes, my family had a tyrannical hold over this continent but we were not all evil. Most of us didnt know any better and I have spent my life atoning for their sins. Living here, alone, it is my curse and I bear it willingly. Ophi: And when you die Melana: The Sylvid dynasty dies with you. Krynia: *smiles, sadly* I am barren even if I were to try and bear a child, I could not. I accepted our familys punishment long ago. Please for the sake of the people of this world, do not allow the Celestriad to fall into the hands of either nation. Gulrock: We dont even know if Kunaras trying to find it. I mean, Artemis says theyre being all aggressive, but without some kind of battle plan, were just shooting in the dark here. You want us to hang out around the volcano or the forest and wait for them to show up? Krynia: Perhaps theres another way the Kunarian Research Facility is located on an offshore island to the west of here. Its heavily defended, but a small group as strong and as determined as you should be able to breach its defenses easily. dont tell anyone I told you, Im only allowed to keep on living because Im not seen as a threat. Blitz: Dont worry, we wont say anything and thank you. Krynia: Please, make yourselves at home here. There are plenty of beds, and food, andGulrock: Yeah yeah, lots of food, wheres the kitchen? Lucilla: *glaring at Gulrock* Krynia: *giggles*

You can now explore the castle to your hearts content. No notable treasures, though theres a library with lots of books that will trigger some small dialogue scenes. Krynia has an extensive alchemy lab that Sanathri will make some humorous comments about, theres also some ancient books about monster biology that Artemis will find fascinating. Once youre done exploring, the Kunarian Research Facility awaits. Kunarian Research FacilityWhile Melana will propose a plan involving some stealthy sneaking, Blitz will insist on charging ahead to confront the guards (prompting Melana to make a comment to the effect of so much for me being the leader again). Once the guards are dispatched, head on inside. The research facility can be a bit confusing, youll need to disable some security systems to get further into the complex, though theres no really big switch puzzles or anything like that. There are some treasure detours, but youll need to go out of your way and flip some extra switches for those. Thunder spells work really well on the mechanical creatures here, the biggest threat in this place are the high-ranking Kunarian soldiers, many of whom possess some dangerous magic. During your brief trip to the lower level, youll see a large door that you wont be able to open, there will be a brief scene where the group tries to do so, but nothing works. They decide to leave the door behind (as they already know the control room is on the upper level). Eventually, youll reach a large, open room where a scene will play out. Theres been signs of a battle and a struggle, though no one is left to say who won the fight. The group will leave the room, the last part of the scene shows something lying on the floor that no one saw its Alexias pendant. After going through another section of the facility, there will be a save point and youll head into the central data room. Theres another cutscene. Melana: *typing on the console* Its all here they were doing biological research for the last twenty years Artemis: *says nothing* Hark: Melana, whats it say about what Artemis told us? Melana: *reading some information* this was written by Zukan new recruits are powerful, but seem reluctant to kill brainwashing considered but less than optimal solution due to diminishing power as a result must try to make them comply out of their own free will Artemis: He was talking about Alexia and I he was planning to brainwash us. Melana: *looking through more information* ohdammit *she recoils, putting her hand to her forehead* Look at this. Everyone *The screens show various scenes of magical soldiers being drained of their energy. Their bodies wilt and wither.* Melana: They were trying to use their own soldiers to create artificial Essence. Ophi: *gasping in horror as she hears the screams of those involved in the experiments* Melana: *reading another of Zukans logs: Project unsuccessful but interesting discovery made, power can be drained directly into another living subject Alexia Lombarde considered prime candidate for power assimilation but there was another more willing candidate council member Vignus Karan, leader of the Magical Research Committee

*The scene shows Vignus being infused with the power of 1,000 captive Kunarian soldiers, then unleashing an impressive blast of magical power at an imposing monster, vaporizing it as Zukan smiles and looks on.* Blitz: Vignus can do THAT? Artemis: Vignus isnt Zukans puppet at all theyre partners the last prime minister mysteriously died around that time Through this scene it is revealed that two years ago, Zukan perfected a method for draining magical energy from a living person and placing it in another. Vignus subjected himself to receive the energy and has become massively powerful in doing so, he used his new powers to convertly assassinate the last prime minister and succeeded to the position, setting Kunara on the warpath. The nation has been biding its time since then, waiting until it could gain a decisive advantage over Goza. Melana: Vignus and Zukan picked a bad time to pick a fight with Goza, considering Gozas been secretly preparing for war over the last couple decades as well Artemis: Two ambitious nations, on a collision course toward total war. Hark: The whole worlds caught between a rock and a hard place Blitz: Unless we stop them both! Zukan: *his face appears on the monitors* That will not be happening youve seen far too much. Artemis: Zukan, you murdering bastard! Ill make you pay for everything youve done here! Zukan: I see you managed to convert those would-be heroes to your side. Mmm, its a pity, I was hoping to assimilate all of their energy into Vignus and myself. No matter the invasion will continue as scheduled. Too bad you wont be alive to stop it! Blitz: Invasion? You mean Kunaras invading Goza? Zukan: Yes, I can see the shoreline right now... *The screen switches off and sirens begin to sound.* Blitz: So he set off a trap? Sanathri: Hmm I wonderMelana: Too late, here it comes! *A glowing, magically infused beast is storming toward the group.* BOSS: Hunter-Killer (HP: 42,750) The Hunter-Killer is the first enemy in the game that can use the aga spells on your party, if targeted toward one party member it can do anywhere from 1,000-2,000 to that person, toward the whole party its around 800 a piece. It also likes to use a surprisingly nasty stomp as its basic attack, and it has several special attacks, including Life Drain (about 500-700 HP drained from one party member), Furious Smack (several strikes of 200-500 to individual party members), and Vortex of Condemnation (1,000-1,500 to the whole party, VERY bad but it will telegraph this attack by causing a black, swirling pit to appear beneath your party in the turn before it strikes). With the large amount of HP this boss has, the battle will be a fight to be sure. You might want to try out Sanathri and have her mix up a couple of Magical Wall potions if you have the ingredients to do so. A

Magical Wall will completely nullify the next spell to target any member of your party, in other words, it will completely block a Thundaga, Firaga, or Blizzaga spell from hitting you, which might well save your ass. You probably wont have a White Pill just yet (youll need to mix up some ingredients which are VERY rare drops at this stage of the game), but if you do have a White Pill or two, Sanathri can administer it to a party member to automatically trigger Heightened Awareness, which can be huge at this point. If you get Heightened Awareness, Id trigger a Full-Force Attack immediately and not bother with the bonuses, Blitz may be able to do 10,000 or more damage with his Lightspeed Slayer FFA. This battle will be tough unless youre quite overleveled, if you do lose, you can skip the long preceding cutscene for the next attempt, so at least theres that. After the battle, youll automatically leave the facility. On the way out, Artemis proposes destroying the place, but Blitz and Ophi convince him not to, telling him that even though the soldiers left inside might be working for the bad guys, killing them still isnt right. Artemis grudgingly accepts, and agrees that the group needs to quickly find out where Kunara will invade the Gozan continent so they can do something to stop Zukan. As the group exits the facility, they hear someone exiting behind them. Alexia: !! Artemis.Blitz! *The party turns to see a badly-injured Alexia stumbling out of the facility. She reaches Artemis and collapses into his arms. Shes clearly sustained injuries from a fight.* Artemis: Alexia! What..what *looks her body over there are other injuries as well injuries from torture* What did they do to you?! Alexia: II came here with my squad I wanted to help. Theythey captured us *Brief flashes of scenes play of Alexia and her squad being tortured underneath the facility.* Alexia: I I see it now I know everythingKunara is trying to start a war I shouldve believed you earlier.. Ophi: Alexia, itll be all right! *They set her down on the ground, but its clear shes dying. Artemis takes her hand.* Artemis: Alexia, I promise you, whoever did this will pay Alexia: You have a fierce battle ahead of you but I know you can win. The people youll be facing, theyre theyre incredibly powerful, youll need something to protect you *Alexias hand begins to glow she closes her eyes and passes energy on to Artemis. Then she opens her eyes again. A message displays, Artemis now has the Guardian Carbuncle.* Artemis: Alexia, I wont let you die Alexia: Its all right. *she smiles* This iswhat I deserve for working with them Ive done awful things, Artemis. Melana: So have I, Alexia Sanathri: No one deserves to die, not after what youve done for us Artemis: Alexia.

Alexia: *shes clearly dying, but manages the strength to say one more thing* You must go to stop them the invasionVignus knows the eastern side of Goza will be heavily defended they theyre planning to go around to the westtheytheyre going to attack the town of Gale Blitz: What? No!! Alexia: Stop them*smiling* Artemis.*she grips his hand tightly one last time before the life leaves her* Artemis: *shaking* AlexiaAlexia!!! *tries to wake her up* Ophi: *sobs into Harks chest, he holds her tightly* Lucilla: *puts a hand to her mouth, Gulrock holds her close* Melana: Damn themdamn them all Blitz: *horrified about his hometown, and mourning Alexia, he doesnt have any words* Artemis: *rises to his feet* How dare they Blitz: Artemis everyone we we heard what Alexia said we have to go back to Gale! Artemis: *ignoring Blitz, he walks toward the facility* How dare theythose sick, murdering pieces of filth *his hand begins to glow* Melana: *looks over toward Artemis* Artemis, what are you doing? Artemis: .BASTARDS!!! *a single tear streaks down his face as a Guardian icon appears beneath him on the ground* Ophi: *gasps* Artemis? Blitz: !!! Melana: *sees what Artemis is about to do* Blitz! Stop him! Like you stopped me! Blitz: *runs toward Artemis, only to be blasted back by some kind of magical forcefield* Aaaah! Artemis: *staring up at the building, ignoring everything else* Alexander, come forth! Purge them with your holy light! Make them bleed! *The massive Guardian Alexander rises from the earth, towering over the research facility. Its body glows brilliantly with white light. It casts its Divine Judgment, destroying the research facility and smiting every soldier inside, including a group of scientists seen dragging the bodies of Alexias fallen companions off the gurneys they were strapped down to. Alexanders wrath leaves nothing but a crater where the building stood. After the scene, a message displays signaling that Artemis has gained Alexander to summon.* Blitz: what what did you do? That was uncalled for! Artemis: When we get to Gale, youll be glad I did this. Melana: Blitz leave him be. We have to get to Gale, quickly. Blitz: yeah. Be sure to save outside, because once you board the boat, youll automatically be taken to Gale for another scene. GaleUpon your arrival in Gale, youll find that the town is already under attack. A massive explosion rises from the town as the boat approaches the shore, and the party can see

dozens of landing boats already in the towns harbor. Blitz immediately leaps out of the boat and starts swimming to shore as fast as he can, followed by Melana and Hark. The others quickly get to a part of the shoreline not occupied by the boats and disembark. The scene continues with magical soldiers killing townspeople right and left, and monsters being used in the slaughter as well. Blitz, enraged, goes to look for his family. A soldier tries to attack him, Blitz swiftly kicks the attacker away and keeps looking. Blitz: Mom? Dad?! Artemis: This slaughter is unforgivable we must stop this immediately! *starts to call forth a summon* Melana: What the hell is wrong with you? Summoning a Guardian here will just wipe out the Kunarians and the townspeople! Gulrock: Lets just bash some skulls instead! Youre now in control of Blitz, Melana, and Hark. Youll fight a couple of battles against Kunarian soldiers on your way to Blitzs parents house. When you arrive, the house is already in flames. Blitz rushes inside, and we hear him scream. Blitz is inside the house now, standing over the bodies of his parents. Theyre already dead, having been felled by a Thundara spell. Blitz cradles his mothers body in his arms. Melana: *comes in, a very sad look on her face* Blitz Im so sorry Blitz: Artemis he was right these bastards these murderers they all have to die! *runs out of the house and immediately sees Zukan, smiling as he torches the mayors house with a powerful fire spell* Zukan: Leave no one alive Goza must know the terror *sees Blitz charging toward him, sword drawn* Hmmm... *turns and blocks Blitzs lethal slash with a magical energy barrier* Artemis: *running toward Zukan as well* You son of a.!!! *shoots a magical fireball at him, but Zukan blocks that too* Zukan: *blocking both of their attacks now* Pathetic. *tosses them both back* Whats done is already done. This town is no more. But if you insist upon fighting *conjures two large crystals from the ground* Entertain them. *walks away through the burning flames as the crystals hover before the party* Blitz: Dammit! Im gonna break these things to pieces! Youre given the chance to configure your party, then a boss fight begins. BOSS: Pseudocrystals (HP: 18,000) The two crystals fight in a strange way, by reflecting magic off one another and onto the party. However, if you cast Dispel on the crystals, they will counter with a lethal Photon Array that will do devastating damage to your entire party. They can also use a variety of special attacks and heal one another. In addition, if you try to kill just one, the surviving crystal will revive the other. The best way to take these crystals, making sure you kill them both at the same time, is by having two physical attackers of similar strength, have them both attacking the crystals to keep whittling away at their HP, while another magic

user, preferably Artemis, uses a non-reflectable group spell (like a summon) to hit both crystals at once and eventually land the finishing blow. If you have Mist, use it, itll do around 1500 damage to both crystals. Alexander will do significantly more to the left crystal, but will heal the one on the right. Eventually, youll be victorious. Once the crystals are destroyed, a scene reveals that the Kunarians have already retreated, leaving a destroyed town and few survivors in their wake. Blitz is inconsolable, though Melana tries her best. After a sad scene, youll automatically return to Sylvid Castle. Sylvid CastleKrynia: Blitz, I am truly sorry for what has transpired in your home I am no replacement for your parents, but if you ever need someone you can talk to, I promise I will be here always. Blitz: I Im going to need time. I just.I cant believe they would do this Zukan and Vignus. Theyre going to pay Hark: Blitz, were not nearly strong enough to stop them. Krynia: Perhaps it is time to gather the pieces of the Celestriad Melana: Excuse me? Krynia: With the Celestriad in hand, you could stop the war Melana: Right and it would prevent either side from claiming it. Gulrock: Whoa, whoa, whoa, were really going after this thing? I mean, its power is incredible, Im not so sure we could wield such a thing Krynia: You only need wield it long enough to make both nations cease this war. I believe in all of you I would not have revealed the Celestriads location otherwise. Blitz: I I dont know *hes shaking* If I had something like that I might I might just use it to destroy Kunara for what theyve done to my villagemy parents Krynia: That you show concern about such a thing indicates that you are potentially ready to wield it. Hark: Blitz, its okay nobody has to bear this responsibility alone. Melana: Right, were all in this together and well all work together to make sure the Celestriad is used to bring peace and not destruction. Lucilla: Wait a minute we dont even know how were going to retrieve those pieces. One of thems in a VOLCANO. Sanathri: Mmm, well, I am an immortal though Im still quite vulnerable to being turned into ash. That would hurt, I imagine. Hark: Wait, youre an IMMORTAL? Sanathri: Didnt I tell all of you? *laughing* Im 900 years old still young enough to have some fun of course. *pinches Harks cheek* Hark: Aaaaah! Artemis: How on earth did you becomeSanathri: Whipped up a bad batch of potion, made myself totally immortal! Stopped aging too, though I wish Id have come up with the potion sooner, like when I was 21 and not 61. *laughs* Of course, I can still have the soul sucked right out of my body and trapped forever if Im knocked out for too long, so Ive still gotta look over my shoulder!

Gulrock: thats interesting enough, but I think my wife wanted to know how wed even get to the volcano in the first place. I dont think our boat can get up there. Krynia: Youll probably need an airship. That might be a tricky proposition for all their magical technology, neither nation has mastered heavier-than-air flight. The essence crystals are too unstable to sustain such a thing. Artemis: Perhaps Cid could help us. Hes been experimenting with Essence down there in the mines and I saw a diagram of an airship once in his study. Blitz: So back to the mines then? Artemis: Right. Melana: Blitz, are you going to be okay? Blitz: I think so Im still mourning my parents, but I cant let that stop us from protecting everyone else. Lets go, everyone. Crystal Cavern MineFind Cid in his office and inquire about an airship. Hell reveal that hes been constructing one underneath the mines, but that it wont fly unless some special crystals are found within a secret area of the mines themselves. Youll be given a key to unlock another area of the mines adjacent to the one you explored earlier. Youll have to find seven crystals in this maze-like area, which shouldnt be too difficult. However, after you find the fifth, there will be a scene where some Kunarian soldiers come to inquire about Cids activities, and force him to tell them where the airship is. The Kunarians will send some mechs and magical soldiers into the special area of the mines, making it more difficult to find the remaining two crystals. At each one, youll have to fight an Enforcer, a sub-boss like enemy with around 12,000 HP, flanked by three Kunarian soldiers. These battles arent too tough but can be time-consuming. The crystal gathering scenes are also interspersed with a couple of scenes of Melana doing weird stuff on the floor of the cave, sort of like shes digging for something. The party asks her what shes up to, but she dismisses their concerns, telling them shes looking for crystals. Once you have all seven crystals, the Kunarian squad leader confronts the party, dragging out Cid and demanding you trade the crystals for him. Melana refuses, and it seems the squad leader is going to kill Cid. Blitz: Melana, maybe we should do what he says! Melana: Nope. Vheri (the Kunarian squad leader): Oh, so you dont care if he dies, eh? Cid: Ehehehehe. Go ahead and kill me, we all go under! Vheri: What? Melana: When I was working for Goza, I planted some booby traps in the mine. I didnt want to use them on my friends, but I still had the controls. I gave them to Cid and hes holding the button right now. Its a dead mans switch, so if you kill him, this whole mine collapses. Ophi: WHAT? Sanathri: *laughing* Id survive at least! Gulrock: Wait, youd take out the whole mine? Melana: Hey, if we dont get that airship, were screwed anyway.

Vheri: Youre bluffing! Melana: Youre standing on a mine right now. *points, shooting some electricity over it so Vheri can see its outline underneath his feet* Vheri: *getting nervous* What whats wrong with you? Hark: *shaking and holding on tightly to Ophi* Melana, this is a bad idea! Blitz: Actually I agree with Melana, might as well go out with a bang, right? Vheri: .!!! *flees* Its then revealed that Cid and Melana had made up the whole thing before the group even went back into the mines. Cid had told Melana of some Kunarian scouts sniffing around the mine and that they might need to be ready for anything. Blitz and Ophi seem angry with her, but do concede that the plan worked and it scared the Kunarians out of the mine. Blitz: That was pretty slick how you buried those fake mines under the rocks like that. Melana: Had to bury a lot of them, Im just glad one of them was close enough to that guy that we could freak him out. However, the bluff doesnt seem to work for long, as Vheri has discovered the trap and sets a legion of soldiers and machines on the party, forcing them to flee into the underground below the mines. Theres a pretty dramatic scene where the party is nearly taken out by mages, but makes their escape, along with Cid, on the airship as it takes off into the skies. Cid himself cant join the party, though he does volunteer his services as a mechanic on the airship, and you can also do some things with him in order to set up shops and other services onboard the airship, youll have to seek out people around the world who want to work onboard the ship. Fortunately, theres no time limit for any of this, so you can start right now or wait until as late as the postgame to build your aerial city. For now, you have an airship! This opens up almost the whole world for you to explore. There arent any new villages or shops at the moment, but you can acquire Artemis eighth (or ninth!) summon, the light Guardian Lumin. You wont have to fight anyone but its still a fairly involved quest. Its not a must-complete, however. Alexander makes Lumin somewhat redundant, though Lumin can do more damage to certain enemies and he provides a defensive boon to the party as well. The next segments of the game are certainly doable without Lumins services. Either way, when youre done exploring, your next stop is Mt. Mavati, in the northwestern area of the world map. Mt. MavatiHover over the volcano and press confirm to trigger a scene where the airship descends on a part of the island at the base of the volcano. During the scene, there will be a quick dialogue where the party comes up with a name for the airship, its Ophi who comes up with the idea to name it Tranquility. Youll land on the island, you can reboard your

airship any time if you want to leave. Head around the island to a volcanic cave entrance, youll fight a number of enemies on your way up the volcano. Its actually a fairly straightforward dungeon, the only sort of puzzle element is a few segments of easy jumping where you have to dodge jets of lava. There are some tougher jumps if you want to get some of the dungeons better treasures, you MIGHT want to undertake them as theres some Ice-elemental equipment in some of these chests which will help you out tremendously against the boss and some of the enemies here. You wont be ascending the volcano the entire time, occasionally youll be descending, as your target is the hot core of the volcano where the Ruby Star (the red piece of the Celestriad) rests. Eventually, youll find it and there will be a scene. Melana: The heat and light coming off that thing is incredible! Gulrock: Is it even safe to touch it? Blitz: Only one way to find out *starts to walk toward the Ruby Star, only for there to be a massive rumbling* Aaaaaaahhh!!! An enormous beast rises from the lava. Its not quite a dragon, its more like an immense two-legged reptilian monstrosity dripping with lava. Get ready for a boss fight. BOSS: Amrauggath (HP: 48,190) The Amrauggath has two main methods of attack. Its main physical attack, a powerful claw swipe, will do anywhere from 600-1200 damage to one person depending on their defense stat. It will also hurl flaming rocks that do around 300 HP worth of fire elemental damage. It can spit flames over the party, hitting for 250-500 a piece. It cant cast the basic Fire spells, but will hit with an attack called Volcanic Crash, which can do anywhere from 1000-1500 to the whole party. If you have equipment that absorbs fire (its possible to get something for every party member if youve been side questing), this fight becomes a LOT easier. How do you take Amrauggath down? Those 48,000 HP might seem imposing, but if Ophi knows Blizzaga (Melana can learn it too by now, though shed probably have to be hugely overleveled), you can hit this beast for over 5,000 damage in one shot. At slightly higher than normal levels, combined with combo strikes, Ive seen Ophis Blizzaga do 9,999 damage in this fight (you cant get Break Damage Limit yet, unfortunately). A swipe from the Chillblade, if Blitz or Melana has it, can easily do upwards of 3,000 in one blow. In other words, this fight can be as easy or as hard as you make it. If you come in unprepared, itll be a nasty fight. If youve got plenty of Ice equipment, magic, and Fire-resistant armor, its a cakewalk. Amrauggaths death calms the fires of the volcano somewhat, though the Ruby Star is still shimmering and fueling the flames. With some reluctance, Blitz reaches out and takes the star. The volcanos lava freezes over into rock, the fumes stop and the Ruby Star is safe to hold. Blitz holds it in his hands, feeling its power. Blitz: Its incredible so much magic is contained in here Sanathri: Let me get a handle on that thing, sonny! *she touches it, only to let out a bit of a shriek* !!!

Melana: Sanathri? Lucilla: What happened? Sanathri: Im getting some psychic feedback its like a million voices are screaming in my head Ophi: I can hear voices too its like that object contains the combined memories of a million Essence crystals Blitz: Melana, here *hands it to her* I still dont know if I trust myself with this power. Melana: Blitz, its all right. We dont know who will wield the Celestriad when the time comes. Hark: All of us together, right? Artemis: The power will need to go through someone. We may need to find one of us to wield it when the time is right. Melana: For now, Blitz, you should keep the stars we find. I cant imagine how youre feeling about what happened to your parents, but if you need to talk to anyone about it, were all right here. Hark: Yeah Blitz: Everyone thank you. *smiles* Youll exit the volcano automatically and end up outside next to the airship. You can still roam this area if you want to collect the treasures (now much easier without the flowing lava) and fight monsters, but when youre ready to go, take off. When you do, there will automatically be a scene where Cid tells Ophi that someone from Kastith contacted her, someone from the Underbelly. He says that Ophis grandmother might be very sick. Ophi: *terrified* My grandma is sick? Hark: Wait, Ophi.. well all come with you to check on her. Ophi: *smiling* You dont have to burden yourself with me, you should all be looking for the Celestriad Lucilla: Hey, were all in this together. Gulrock: Thats right! Besides, some of us have never met your grandma. (this line of dialogue will change if you took the party to Kastith in the airship or boat to meet Opala earlier) Ophi: Everyone, thank you KastithWhen you arrive at Kastith, theres an automatic scene where Ophi heads for the Underbelly entrance. When you arrive, someone stops you and tells Ophi that her grandmother is very sick and wants to see Ophi in private. Quite worried, Ophi heads down to the Underbelly with the man, telling her friends that shell send for them soon. The group stands outside. Artemis: I dont like this. Blitz: Yeah, I dont like it too, Im worried about Ophis grandmother Artemis: No, not that. This smells like a trap.

Hark: A trap? Artemis: Whyd they have Ophi go down there alone? This is a classic trap to separate her from us. We need to go down there right now. Eventually, the party decides to go down to the Underbelly. You head to Opalas home immediately and the woman is perfectly healthy. Theres no sign of Ophi anywhere. Hark: This isnt good! *runs off* Ophi? Ophi?! *The party quickly follows Hark, and soon sees a scrap of Ophis clothing, torn in some kind of struggle. Hark immediately fears the worst and these fears are confirmed when the man who stopped you from entering the Underbelly sooner approaches the group.* Man: Dynal has a message for you. He says that you need to bring that thing you just found in the volcano out to the desert. He wants to make a trade, the piece of the Celestriad for your friend Ophi. Blitz: What? Hark: *screams in rage, running at the man* WHERES OPHI YOU SON OF A B****?! *tackles the man to the ground and begins punching him over and over, then takes out a knife and puts it to the mans neck* If shes been hurt I swear to the goddess Ill kill you! Blitz: Hark! Artemis: *smirks* About time that kid became a man. Man: *nervous* you might want to think twice about what youre doing, if I dont come back that girl is dead. Hark: *gritting his teeth in rage* Youyou cowardly Blitz: Hark! *pulls Hark off the man and talks him down* Well get Ophi back! Man: *picks himself up and dusts himself off* Youll get her back when you give Dynal that piece of the Celestriad. There aint no time limit on this, but I hear the boss is fond of that girl, so you might wanna hurry if you get my drift. *smirks and leaves* Theres a quick scene afterward where Blitz and the others have to calm Hark down. Your next destination is obviously the Great Southern Desert. Remember that sealed-off fortress in the west that you couldnt enter? Well, thats your destination. In the meantime, Kastith has some new stuff you can buy. Not much in the way of equipment, but the new accessories are nice. Also, remember to talk to Opala, who will give Hark a knife that once belonged to Ophis mother, its a good boost to his stats. She also gives Hark the Affinity Marks for Blizzara, Thundara, Fira, Quakera, Aerora, Watera, and Cura, so if youve been waiting to give him some magic, you now have some good second-level spells for him to use (and one of the stats that gets a big boost from the Charity Knife is Intelligence, so Hark likely just became your third best attack mage). Good reason to use him in the upcoming fights? Well, youre required to use him, so thats as good a reason as any. Make sure to level him up if hes fallen behind, 30 will suffice though 35 or more wont hurt. Desert FortressYou can land your airship pretty close to the western edge of the desert, so theres not too much backtracking to reach where Dynal and his minions are holding Ophi. Enter the

fortress. This fortress isnt so much a dungeon as much as it is a gauntlet of bosses, once you take out the boss in one room you can head right to the next. Theres a save point in each room, though I dont think youll need any of them. Youll be greeted by Kelgon first. Kelgon: You got the goods for us? Id hate to tell the boss to slice Ophis pretty little neck. Blitz: *holds up the Ruby Star* Its right here. Kelgon: *laughing* That easy? And to think, all we had to do was snatch some girl. You clowns had to go deep into a volcano. Heh, the boss is gonna loveMelana: *elbows him in the gut* Blitz: *pulls back the Ruby Star* You really think were gonna give this to you? Gulrock: Were gonna beat all your asses and take Ophi back! Hark: Starting with you Kelgon: Dammit! Little punks, Ill show you BOSS: Kelgon (HP: 19,950) Kelgon is a pretty fierce physical specimen. Hes much stronger than before, with physical blows about as strong as Amrauggaths. He also has a 10-Hit Special, where hell punch a random party member for around 200 damage. However, Kelgon is very vulnerable to magic, and ever since Gales destruction, you dont have to include Blitz in your party. Bring a party of Hark, Artemis, and Melana, and wreck his stuff with your best spells. Lumin might end up doing more than 10,000 in one attack if you have it. Kelgon will go down fast and hard. Kelgon passes out after you thrash him, head on up to face your next opponent. Bell: Hehehehe.so youre gonna fight your way through us? *laughing* I doubt the bossll like that, and what the boss dont like, Ophi wont either! Hark: Like I told your thug back in the sewer, if Ophis hurt even a tiny bit, youre all dead! Bell: Mmm, well see who dies here, if we kill you we keep the Celestriad AND the girl! BOSS: Bell (HP: 13,000) Put your physical attackers back in the group for this fight or just keep the party from before. Bells magic defense is high, but his magical attacks wont do quite as much to the party suggested in the Kelgon fight. He can use third-level spells, he has a thing for Thundaga (and you only have one piece of lightning absorbing equipment, even if youve done all the possible sidequests) and it can do around 1,200 if directed at one party member. Still, Bells low HP means hell go down quite quick. Another one bites the dust! Bells defeat clears the way for you to fight Tren in the next room.

Tren: This would be so much easier if you just gave us that Celestriad piece. Blitz: Same for you if youd give up Ophi Tren: Sorry. Orders are orders. You think this was our idea? It came straight from the Gozan brass. I wouldve rather taken that traitor right there *points to Melana*, but Dynal chose the target. Melana: You try any of that crap with me that Dynal tried with Ophi and Id shove this spear right up yourTren: You talk tough, but lets see you in action I think youll find me quite unbeatable. BOSS: Tren (HP: 9,999) Theoretically, you can take Tren down with a single attack but hes got some tricks up his sleeve. He comes into this battle with Regen automatically active along with Reflect. If you do hit him with spells, well he has a barrier up that only allows one element of spell to damage him. If he takes a certain amount of damage, hell Dispel the Regen and use Reverse on himself, making all your attacks heal him. He can also heal himself with Curaga (though he wont use Cure spells when hes under Reverse), and if you try using Elixir or Phoenix Down (or Potion or whatever) on him when hes under Reverse, youll learn that not only does he have something called an Item Barrier that blocks all items from being used on him, but he counters with a full-party Reverse spell, then starts hitting you with Curaga! Oh, and to top that all off, he has a 90% resistance to physical attacks. So yeah this fight wont be fun. How do you beat Tren? Well, hes more annoying than hard. Use Mist to knock off the first half of his HP, then use Cura or Curaga on him once he puts up the Reverse. Yeah, hes not THAT hard, but his strategy might throw you for a loop until you figure out what to do. Once Tren is beaten, he passes out and you head to the next room. this time theres no one. Hunh. There is a save point, though, and you should probably use it, as Dynal awaits in the next room. *The party rushes in.* Hark: Ophi? *Dynal is holding Ophi tightly to him, shes chained up and has a gag tied over her mouth. Hes holding a knife to her throat.* Ophi: Mmph.! Hark: Ophi!!! Dynal: Thats as far as you go. No more games take one more step and I cut her throat. Hark: OPHI! if youve hurt her, Ill make you suffer! Dynal: Hand over that piece of the Celestriad, or Ophi dies. Ophi: *muffled* Dont do it!!! You cant give it to him! Dynal: Whats it going to be? Melana: Hark is right if you kill Ophi, you cant escape from all of us. Gulrock: Wed tear you limb from limb. Dynal: Unlike my cowardly companions, I am not afraid to die for my country. Go ahead risk this girls life. I will kill her.

Ophi: *muffled* Hark, Ill be all right! *struggling with all her might, but the chains hold her very tightly* Im so sorry!! Hark: *trembling in rage* II Blitz: Here *holds up the Ruby Star* Artemis: Blitz, what are you doing? Melana: .*she cant risk Ophis life* .Dynal, you pathetic coward Ophi: Nmmmph! *shaking her head* Dynal: *smiles and loosens his grip on Ophi for just a moment* Hark: *screaming, he runs toward Ophi and Dynal* Ophi, please trust me! *he takes his knife and, using the space Dynal has inadvertently made, thrusts it between Dynals knife and Ophis neck, Harks blade passes just in front of Ophis face as he blocks Dynal from slitting her throat* Dynal: What are you doing? Hark: *strikes Dynal in the shin with a fierce low kick, bringing him to one knee and causing him to release the knife and Ophi* Ophi, I got you! *catches her, and in a swift motion, cuts the chains around her wrists with the knife* Ophi: !!! *pulls down her gag* Hark! *slides free of the chains around her arms and embraces him* Hark: Ophi *holds her tight* Did he hurt youdid hedid he Ophi: No*smiling* Dynal wanted to, but the man with him didnt let him even try Im fine, Hark you saved me Dynal: *in rage, he lunges at Hark with the knife, only for Gulrock to deck him in the face, knocking him way back* Gulrock: All right, time for your asskicking! Dynal: *slides back* nnngggh! *he glows with energy, revealing that hes wearing an armored vest lined with a massive amount of Essence* I wont let any of you win! Do you hear me?! Youre given the option to change party members. You still cant use Ophi, shes still a bit shaken from her ordeal. You dont HAVE to use Hark, though I would. Guy deserves a chance to thrash his girlfriends kidnapper, right? (also, you can steal an AWESOME piece of armor from him) BOSS: Dynal (27,500 HP) Dynals definitely tougher than the last time you fought him, but hes still more than beatable. Hes pretty quick, with some nasty rapid-fire physicals that can inflict multiple hits on your party. Hes also adept with magic, and he knows Flare, which will put a serious hurt on a single party member, if not kill them outright. Dynals defenses are pretty normal, so magic or physical attacks will work. He knows Curaga and will use it on himself once his HP goes down below 10,000, so keep that in mind. Just take down Dynal the same way you would any other tough boss, with your strongest attacks, remembering to keep healing. Dynal doesnt really have any big dangerous group attacks, unless you count a group aga spell, which is usually good for around 500-800 damage to everyone.

*Dynal falls to his knees, still enraged at the party. The party ignore him, theyre watching Hark and Ophi at the moment.* Hark: Ophi, Im sorry, I took a big risk with your life charging him like that Ophi: You had to protect the Celestriad. I would have gladly died if it meant that it could help bring peace to the world. Hark: I promise, that will never have to happen were all going to bring peace together, none of us will have to die. Especially not you. Ophi, Ive never been so scared before in my life! I thought I was going to lose you, I- *Ophi suddenly kisses him* .!!!! Ophi: *smiles and ends the kiss* My hero Melana: *groans a bit* Blitz: what? *laughing* Hark, use tongue next time! Melana: WHAT? *elbows Blitz in the ribs* Dynal: *angrily chanting a spell* No one makes a fool of me *starts to cast it, right at Ophi* Artemis: *sees Dynal out of the corner of his eye* OPHI! LOOK OUT! Ophi: .!!! *turns and sees Dynal casting the spell, she cant avoid it* Hark: No! *Theres a flash Hark starts to leap in front of Ophi, but then we see Dynals head go to the side. Hes been shot through the skull. Standing in the shadows nearby is Gelna.* Melana: Gelna?! Gelna: dont get used to this. *holsters his gun as Dynal falls dead to the floor* Hark: You saved us Ophi: *smiling* Thank you again, Gelna. Blitz: Wait you were the guy who made sure Dynal didnt. Gelna: Like I said, dont get used to it. Some of us in Goza still have a sense of honor. And Im hoping, for the sake of this world, that some in Kunara do as well. If all of them are the kind of scum who would raze an innocent villageMelana: Theyre not. I promise you. .Gelna, thank you. Gelna: Gozas got a squad headed toward Omita Forest, just to the north of the desert. Thats where the Emerald Star is located, at least thats what our intelligence told us. You might want to hurry and get there before the Gozan military does. take care of yourselves. *turns and starts to leave* Blitz: ...what made you join up with Gozan intelligence in the first place? I mean was it always this shady? Gelna: You dont have time to hear my story. I suggest you get moving. *disappears* Blitz: Omita Forest is next? Melana: Right. Ophi, are you ready to continue on with us? Ophi: *nodding* I am! I know my grandmother isnt really sick, but how is she doing? Hark: Shes REALLY worried about you but she told me she knew Id be able to save you. Blitz: Hey Melana, maybe I can save you someday wouldnt that be cool? Melana: .*says nothing as she leaves with the others* Blitz, youre so stupid you dont even know you already have.

After this scene, you can re-board the airship and take off again. There arent any new sidequests available, though you can get a touching dialogue scene if you head back to Kastith so that Ophi can let her grandmother know shes all right. Theres also some new dialogue available from Krynia back at Sylvid Castle. Youll want to head to Omita Forest next, though. Omita ForestThe town is completely occupied by Gozan soldiers, so youll have to sneak to the forest (of course, you can fight your way through them). The forest is crawling with Gozan military mechs and personnel, whove blockaded parts of the forest, making it somewhat difficult to reach the secret grotto. However, once youve gotten there, there will be a scene where the party searches around the obelisk. Soldiers are pursuing you, including Gozas military leader, General Karst. The soldiers are about to fire on the party when there is a brilliant flash of light, teleporting the party to a mysterious place Village of the MooglesBlitz: Unnnh where are we? *A moogle flutters up to the group.* Sanathri: Oh my, been a while since Ive seen one of you. Gulrock: One of what? Hark: Is that a moogle? Ophi: Oh my goodness, its so cute! *giggling* Moogle: The queen wants to see you, kupo! Follow me, kupo! *flutters deeper into the village* The party follows the moogle, and youll regain control of them once you enter the village proper. You can go see the queen immediately, or talk to the various moogles floating about. Theres a shop here with plenty of good weapons and armor to buy, and your coffers should be overflowing from your recent excursions, so feel free to upgrade everything. Eventually, youll want to enter the beautiful tree where the queen lives. The Moogle Queen, an ordinary moogle clad in a queen dress and adorned with (maybe too much) makeup, is just as flirty as Sanathri, though she has a crush on Artemis, not on Hark. Artemis, of course, repels her advances and shoos her away. The queen explains that the moogles used to live all over the world, but after the wars and the terror they caused, the moogles gradually came to live near the Emerald Star, concealing their village in a hidden dimensional pocket deep within Omita Forest. Blitz: Please, your majesty, do you know the location of the Emerald Star? Queen: Why of course I do, kupo! Its deep within our sacred hidden forest! And you want to take the star, dont you? Blitz: Yeah. But well, we know that without its power, your forest might die Queen: Oh, weve taken precautions against that, kupo! Weve used our own magic to infuse the trees and the barriers keeping us safe. We knew one day a group of purehearted heroes might come, needing the power of our sacred treasure, kupo!

Artemis: Were not exactly pure of heart. Queen: Oh, but we could sense your good intentions as you approached! Youre nothing like those kupoheaded meanies outside the gates! They want to steal our star, dont they? Melana: Yes, and if they find a way in Queen: True, true, that would be very bad, kupo. But we are ready for that as well! Time is of the essence, kupo! I will take you to the star! Ophi: Oh, thank you! Thank you all so much *patting a moogle thats landed on her shoulder* Blitz: Yeah dont worry, well chase those soldiers away after were done. The Sacred Forest opens up to you now. Enter it and prepare for a fairly tricky maze. Sacred ForestThe Sacred Forest is crawling with some pretty powerful monsters. However, the Moogle Queen will help you out by providing your party with random buffs and healing, making the fights somewhat easier (you might want to take this opportunity to grind to level 40 if you havent already). Fire magic works quite nicely here, as does Thunder. If Ophi has Firaga by now, use it liberally, just remember to keep her HP up. Ifrit will devastate the enemies here as well. Eventually, youll reach a save point, after which is a clearing. Queen: The Emerald Star is here, kupo! Blitz: Yeah I can feel its power. Melana: The Ruby Star is resonating. *The queen disappears into a thicket. Suddenly, theres a loud scream. The party looks in horror to see a massive thorn monster towering over them, the Emerald Star is glowing in its chest, and it has the Moogle Queen wrapped in one of its many thorny tendrils.* Moogle Queen: Help, kupo!!! BOSS: Thorndrake (HP: 37,280) The Thorndrake will lash your party with its deadly tendrils, causing a variety of status effects (think of this thing as an Ochu on steroids). Its most powerful group attack is the Foul Wind, an attack that will do around 800 to everyone and cause a variety of nasty status effects. Status-warding accessories are a MUST for this fight, you should at least have something to ward off confusion and sleep, or your party will find itself dying in its sleep or bashing itself to death. The Thorndrake is vulnerable to Firaga, though any level three magic will do a ton of damage. You should also have Blitz (or any other physical attackers) hacking away. Remember to cure any status effects that arise. Though it has less HP than the Amrauggath, this fight will probably last longer because of the status effects the boss can cause, itll definitely be a battle of attrition. The Thorndrakes defeat frees the Moogle Queen and awards you with the Emerald Star. After a quick scene, you return to the Village of the Moogles, just in time to see the generals forces breaking through and entering the village.

Blitz: Damn! Not now! General Karst: Theyve already got the second part of the Celestriad! The primary target has switched! Youre thrust into a fight with a Gozan warmech with 10,000 HP. Not too tough of a fight, watch out for its Cluster Missile. Blitz: You cant beat us! Melana: Give it up! General Karst: Give up the pieces of the Celestriad and well spare this village. Moogle Queen: Were not scared of you, kupo! Moogles, attack! *A chorus of kupos rains out as hundreds of Moogles swarm Karst and his soldiers.* Moogle Queen: Well hold them back, kupo! You need to find that last Celestriad piece, quickly! Blitz: Were not letting you fight alone! Moogle Queen: We didnt ask for your permission, kupo! *Theres another bright flash of light, and the party finds itself back at the obelisk, with no way to return to the Moogle village. After a brief cutscene where the party laments the Moogles apparent sacrifice, youre automatically taken back to Omita village.* Onboard the airship, the party knows the next location is an undersea city. Cid tells them that legends speak of such a city below the western Kunarian coast, but the party will need some kind of underwater vessel to get them there. Melana knows the Gozan military was researching bathysphere technology, so she tells them that theyll need to raid the Gozan military HQ in Centralia. CentraliaHead to the Gozan military headquarters. With the help of one of Sanathris disguise potions, you can get in quite easily. You dont need to prepare for a dungeon, you can sneak right to where the bathysphere is being tested, though youll need to engage in a few conversational puzzles to get access. Fortunately, this part of the game is very forgiving, and some of the wrong choices are pretty humorous, so feel free to screw up on purpose a few times. There is a savepoint in the marine lab area. Youll have to engage in a fight to get the bathysphere. BOSS: Spiderborg Mk. 2.0 (HP: 24,000) Yes, its our old pal, the Spiderborg! Its been upgraded somewhat, but not nearly to the level of some of the recent bosses. It still has the Straightline Missile, which only does around 500 damage to the party, something you can easily handle by now. Thundaga and Ramuh will shred him. So now youve got the bathysphere. As soon as you descend, there will be a cutscene.

General Karst: *standing in the Moogle Village, or at least whats left of it, watching as it burns* Damnable creatures *to his soldiers* Any sign of the Celestriad? Soldier: Its long gone by now, sir General Karst: *clenches his fist* Well have to report our failure to headquarters or perhaps we could wait for the Celestriad to resurface. They must be ready to gather the third star by now. Soldier: Sir, do you think theyll be able to retrieve it? General Karst: Others have tried *he chuckles for a moment* all have failed. *to his men* Come we have other matters to attend to. We dont have to report back in just yet. *The general uses a crystal to open the way back to Omita Forest. As he and his men retreat, a moogle watches them from the bushes.* Moogle: Kupo Once control is returned to the party, take some time to get a handle on the bathysphere. The bathysphere operates similarly to the submarine from Final Fantasy VII, though you wont have too much to explore as of yet. Note the massive energy barrier keeping you from exploring anywhere near the center of the map, corresponding to the small, barren island on its surface. Interesting Head for the western coast of Kunara youll see the underwater city soon enough. Underwater CityThe city consists of a massive, domed structure with numerous other smaller domes inside. There are still some faint lights glowing in the dome, powered by energy from the Sapphire Star. The party marvels at the huge structure as the ship approaches, when it reaches a certain distance from the main entrance, the door automatically opens to allow them inside. Youll head into a chamber that seals shut and drains out, you can leave this structure any time you like (itll show the same cutscene of the water being filled and drained from the lock, of course youre given the option to skip it). As soon as the party is inside the city, theres a cutscene of Kunarian submarines descending on the structure. Seems youre not the only ones who know about the Celestriad being here Basically, exploring this place is like exploring a large city in the game, but with monsters and some puzzles youll need to solve to get into the main structure, where the Celestriad is. Youll begin by entering the only of the domes thats open, a small building known as the conservatory. Youll have to descend to the basement here and do a puzzle to advance. A gate will open and youll be able to enter the next building via the underground tunnel system. Youll make your way from building to building like this until you eventually find the key to enter the large structure in the central area. Upon gaining the key, a cutscene will begin when you try to enter the central structure. Vheri: Stop right there *approaches with a squad of mage soldiers* Melana: You again?

Gulrock: Didnt you learn anything from back at the mine? Vheri: We learned not to fall for your tricks *Theres a brief skirmish where the party knocks out most of Vheris entourage and brings him to one knee.* Vheri: Dammit! They didnt tell me you were this strong it must be because you have two parts of the Celestriad Blitz: We havent even been using it! Vheri: But surely you plan to you want to destroy Kunara! I know our army raided your village, you want revenge! Blitz: I want revenge it doesnt mean Im going to take it. That would be wrong. Vheri: Oh youre so moral *smirks, and holds up a glowing stone* Or maybe youre just a liar. *The stone flashes and out comes a crystalline soldier* Vheri: *stands up* Either way, I wont let you have the final piece! Youll all die here! BOSS: Vheri (HP: 21,000) and Glascrys (HP: 24,500) Not too tough of a fight. Vheri will attack with standard magic, while Glascrys spends most of the fight pummeling you with its big crystal arms for around 500 HP a blow. Occasionally Glascrys will use Crystal Sacrifice, healing Vheri for 5,000 HP at the cost of its own HP. You can concentrate on Vheri, once hes beaten the fights over regardless of whether or not Glascrys is still around. You do get more experience points for making sure Glascrys dies first, and if you concentrate on Vheri, Glascrys will probably drain most of its HP healing its master, so that might make taking out both for the full reward easier. Once the fight ends, Vheri is left exhausted and beaten. Melana browbeats him into revealing how much more of a Kunarian regiment remains, he says that most of the squads already turned back and that hes the highest ranking officer. Melana: Youd have think theyd have sent their whole army down here. Ophi: Maybe they didnt have enough submarines? Artemis: Or maybe the war with Goza is too much of a distraction. Melana: Either way. *tosses Vheri to the ground* Get the hell out of here. Vheri: Youre not going to arrest me? Melana: And put you where? Were sort of without a country at the moment. Were certainly not going to kill you. Artemis: Though if you dont leave, we might change our minds. The cutscene ends as Vheri runs off, leaving you clear passage into the big dome. Youll soon come to a large, domed room, and another cutscene will begin. There are desiccated corpses on the ground. Melana: Theres some decay but these people died recently. Blitz: Kunarian soldiers? Melana: No not Gozan soldiers either they they look like ordinary workers.

Gulrock: But nobodys lived in this place for hundreds, maybe thousands of years! *A spirit can be seen apparating around the room. The party soon notices him.* Spirit: do you think you can save your world? Hark: Who are you? Spirit: *says nothing, continuing to float around* Melana: I can sense strong energy from him, be careful! Ophi: The energy patterns are similar to that woman from the crypt! Spirit: ! *stops* You saw Luna? Melana: Who ARE you? Blitz: And whos Luna? Spirit: You want to save your world but its already too late. Cant you see? The proof is right at your feet *The spirit disappears, leaving the party stunned and bewildered. Melana kneels down and holds up the Ruby Star its glowing more than before. She looks at the corpses on the floor and can see the Essence on their bodies. Its resonating with the Star. She closes her eyes and can see images of people being attacked by something, and screaming in fear she gasps as she opens her eyes again.* Blitz: Melana, what did you see? Melana: Im not sure Hark: The Essence, should we take it? Melana: No leave it. Everyone, lets continue on. Head deeper into the dome. There are no more puzzles, just a few more rooms until you reach another save and then a smaller room with a clear dome atop its frame. At the center of the room is a kind of ark inside is the Sapphire Star. Melana: There it is the last piece of the Celestriad. Lucilla: Its beautiful Blitz: The whole thing hasnt been together in thousands of years Ophi: Are we really worthy to unite the Celestriad? Artemis: *looking worried he senses something* Damn not now Sanathri: Hmm? Artemis: *shaking his head* Figured it would be that. *to the others* Get ready. Melana: ready for what? *Theres a mighty screech. Something can be seen outside the dome ceiling. Its a massive sea monster, its energy resonating with the Sapphire Stars.* Artemis: The Guardian of the Sea! Melana: You mean Leviathan? I thought that was a myth! *The creature roars and crashes through the glass dome. The party prepares for a fight.* BOSS: Leviathan (HP: 65,000) Leviathan is, as you suspect, a water elemental creature weak to Lightning. For that reason, Thundaga and Ramuh are practically essential here, as is Lightning-elemental weaponry if you have it. Equipment that absorbs Water will help, though Leviathan also comes packed with powerful physical attacks and a non-elemental strike called a

Guardian Beam which will do around 1,000 to one person. Leviathans most dangerous attack is, as you might expect, Tsunami, which will do 1,500+ HP of damage to your entire party and will require immediate healing. With Shell on, Tsunami will do around 1,000 or maybe less, so have a Shell put up on your first turn (you should have Shellga by now), and KEEP it up. Leviathan occasionally likes to use Thundaga, so remember that if you think your Water-elemental protection keeps you relatively safe from magic. The creature will also cast Waterga on itself once its HP gets low. Eventually, Leviathan will go down (after a long fight), and Artemis will gain the creatures services for summoning. *Leviathan roars as its power is absorbed by Artemis. The Sapphire Star is now the partys for the taking.* Blitz: *reaches out and touches the Star, its automatically joined with the other two pieces of the Celestriad* !!! *Theres a massive swell of power as the Celestriad reforms, the artifact shines with a brilliant glow. Blitz can barely stand while holding onto it.* Melana: *steadies him* This is definitely the Celestriad and its definitely powerful. Hark: Its amazing Gulrock: Yeah, that energy wave hit me like a good strong punch! Blitz: We need to get this thing back to Sylvid Castle Krynia will help us figure out what to do. Melana: Right. This war isnt over yet After you leave the Underwater City, a cutscene will play showing Gozan and Kunarian forces reacting to the sudden flash of energy. Vignus is seated in his office with Zukan at his side, smiling. Vignus: So, it finally falls into place *smiles* Youll want to head to Sylvid Castle next, nothing much else to do for the moment. It might be a good time to participate in the Centralia chocobo races and coliseum battles, as they will become unavailable to you in a short time. You also wont be able to visit Elinal after this for a while, so take care of any business you have there as well. Sylvid CastleYoull automatically enter and there will be a scene where Krynia expresses her gratitude and admiration of the partys bravery. Shell say that the party needs to designate someone to bear the Celestriad in the trials ahead, and to choose someone whose power is great and whose heart is pure. The party will meet in the library to discuss matters. Talk to various party members for different dialogue scenes, though the story will only continue once you approach Melana, whos standing by a shelf reading something. Melana: Blitz were not the only ones whove fought this battle, you know Blitz: I know people have fought alongside us all the way people like Alexia, and the moogles, people who have sacrificed themselves to help us along.

Melana: True, but I meant people in the past the last war. There were people who tried to gather the Celestriad, just as weve done the resistors from both sides of the war built a massive city underground to try and shelter refugees. The city was known as Salvation Blitz: A noble goal but they failed. *he bows his head* What if we fail? Melana: Blitz, youve never asked that question before. Blitz: I know, its just what if the Celestriad cant stop the war? What if we try to bring its might against the two warring armies, but they crush us like the ancient warring nations did to the people who tried to stop the last war? Melana: Then well keep fighting. We have to keep fighting, no matter what. Blitz from the moment we set out on this journey, I knew you would risk your life to help anyone. Im not asking you to do it now, you or anyone else if anythings changed, I understand. Blitz: No, Melana nothings changed. Im not scared to die okay, maybe Im a little scared to die, but Im just worried that were going to fail and that the people of this world will. I mean, you remember what that guy back in the Underwater City told us. Melana: And you believe a 5,000 year old spirit over your own heart? *smiles* Maybe you really have changed, Blitz. Blitz: I havent changed! At least the part of me that still cares about you and the others. Melana: *smiles back and takes his hands* Were going to win, Blitz. And its because of you and Hark and Ophi and Artemis and everyone else. Blitz: And you too. Thats why thats why I think you should bear the Celestriad in battle. Youre our leader, and youre the strongest one of all of us. I just dont think Im worthy to wield it. Melana: Blitz, I dont think Im worthy either. My heart isnt pure, my soul might not be strong enough to bear its power but I do know someone else who might be able. *The scene switches to show Krynia in her bedroom, staring out the window at ships approaching from across the ocean.* Melana: Krynia? *Krynia turns, and theres the party. Blitz and Melana are taking the Celestriad to her.* Melana: Krynia, youre the only one of us who we believe is strong enough to wield the Celestriad. Ophi: We cant force this burden upon you, we wouldnt want to risk your life in any way, so if you have any doubts, you dont have to wield it. Krynia: You you think Im? *shes very touched by this, putting her hand to her heart* Blitz: Your heart is pure, and your soul is strong. Krynia: I have never raised my hand in violence, I could not wage war with this artifact Melana: Your magical power is incredible. I know your familys had a dark history, but you can redeem them and you can save the world. Krynia: Im not sure *her hand is trembling* Blitz: You dont have to decide right away, Krynia. We can trust you with this *sets down the Celestriad at her feet*

Krynia: Of course thank you all of you I will do my best to prove myself worthy of this burden Melana: In the meantime, well do everything we can to help you. Im going to draw up a plan for battle. We may need to engage one or both armies while you figure out how to best use the Celestriads power. Leave the castle and board the airship. There will be a cutscene where the party is discussing preparations for what could be their final battle. As the airship is flying, there is an explosion from Sylvid Castle. Blitz: What the?! Melana: Krynia!! The party will immediately return to Sylvid Castle, where the castle is under siege by Kunarian forces. There will be another scene. Vignus: *torturing Krynia with electricity* Sylvid witch! You should have died with the rest of your accursed family! Krynia: *screaming in pain* Vignus: *holding the Celestriad* I can already feel its power the energy of a worlds worth of souls Krynia: Monster you cannot win Vignus: The Celestriad sings a different tune I can hear its voice the blessed chorus whose song will rend Goza asunder and make me the ruler of this world for a thousand millennia! Your family sought the same type of power, did it not? Krynia: Yes Vignus: And you do not desire such power? Krynia: You know nothing of what I desire! Vignus: *shocks her again* Fight your way to Krynias bedroom. Youll see her lying lifeless on the ground, and the Celestriad gone. Ophi: No! Blitz: Krynia! *The party rushes to her side shes been badly injured, but shes breathing and clearly alive. She opens her eyes as the party helps her to her bed.* Krynia: The the Celestriad! Vignus took it, hes going back to Elinal! Artemis: That bastard if hes got the Celestriad, Gozas finished Melana: And maybe the rest of the world with it. Krynia, were sorry we shouldnt have leftKrynia: I am fine, you must regain the Celestriad at once In Elinal, Vignus is speaking to a crowd of Kunarians, with Zukan at his side. Though many of the Kunarians look uneasy, Vignus is able to whip them into a frenzy by telling them of Gozan war crimes, including the massacre of the Kunarian village from fifteen years ago. He says once Goza is destroyed, he will usher in a new era of peace and

prosperity. He holds up the Celestriad triumphantly, its light illuminating Elinal in an eerie, multicolored glow that can even be seen from Krynias palace. Its time to head to Elinal, stop Vignus, and save the world. Your party should be at least level 40 before entering the city. Once you do so, theres no turning back until your business here is finished. ElinalA cutscene plays where the party enters the city, only to be immediately accosted by Kunarian soldiers. Soldier: Halt immediately! Your presence in the city isMelana: *blasts them back with a powerful burst of magical energy* Lets go. Blitz: ! Artemis: *smirks* You heard the lady. *The party begins to run as more soldiers approach from all directions, flanked by powerful suits of mechanical armor.* There are three immediate battles upon entering the city, as the party is forced to engage in battle with more and more powerful Kunarian forces. Finally, youre given free reign. The shops are closed to you, so are the various buildings in the city. While youre walking toward the Palace of Administration, youll be subject to enemy encounters, so keep that in mind. If you need to leave Elinal for any reason, head to the western area of the city, where a sympathizer will smuggle you out (Melana will chew you out for leaving, though). When you approach the Ministry of Justice, a contingent of powerful soldier mages blocks the way. Ophi pleads with them to move, telling them that Vignus and Zukan are crazy and the Celestriad will bring Elinal to ruin. The soldiers are having none of it, and it appears youll be forced to fight dozens of soldiers at once. Suddenly, a Gozan missile strikes near the palace, bringing the soldiers down and bringing down a building with it. A large Gozan regiment has entered the city, provoking an all-out melee that allows your party to slip through. Blitz: The Gozans have taken the war right to the Kunarian capital Melana: If Vignus uses the power of the Celestriad now, itll be a bloodbath and all of Goza will converge on this city. Hark: We have to end this, before its too late! Palace of AdministrationThe Celestriads powers appear to be warping the palace, turning a normally palatial administration building into something out of a dream world. Powerful monsters, in addition to elite Kunarian troops, lurk these halls, and this is definitely the most dangerous challenge your party has faced. Youll need to navigate not only the large floors of the palace, but the strange nether-realm the Celestriads energy has created. The

party will comment on how strong the Celestriads energy feels now that theyre so close to it. Melana: Vignus must possess unimaginable power Artemis: It may be suicide to come after him. Blitz: We have to do something, there are people dying outside these walls! Youll need to traverse an otherworldly landscape after making it through the initial rooms of the palace. There are some powerful treasures on these branching paths, and some of the chests yield keystones that you can use back in the normal palace areas to access more treasure rooms. Be sure to try and pick up everything here, itll be useful in the battles ahead. Eventually youll make it up to the second floor, where youre confronted by a painfully familiar foe. Vheri: *his body is glowing strangely* I will not let you through here Ophi: Whats happened to him? Artemis: Those marks the signs of very recent magical infusion he mustve had souls fused to his body in the last 24 hours. Vheri: Vignus has given me powerI will not let you stop him! Melana: This isnt right! *steps forward* Dont you see what hes doing? If he uses the Celestriad now, he could doom the world to destructive war! Vheri: No the Celestriad will make Kunara eternally great our civilization will rule for thousands of years! Artemis: Hes not going to see reason. He has to be put down. The process has altered his mind. Sanathri: Maybe I can reverse it with a potion? Gulrock: No, Artemis is right this guys in our way and to get to Vignus weve gotta go through him! Vheri: *laughs* Good luck. BOSS: Vheri (HP: 34,000) Even though he lacks a crystalline companion this time around, Vheri is still a dangerous foe. Hell cast a number of buffs on himself at the start of the fight, then lay into your party with a powerful Firaga spell, which, enhanced by Faith, will do significant damage. Use Dispel to take out Vheris buffs, then hit him with the most powerful magic you have. He likes to use Mana Crusher, which not only drains all the magic points from a party member, but will Silence them as well. You might want to have Lucilla learn this one, and she should have some Blue Magic that will make her useful in the fight, so feel free to have in the party. The other two party members should consist of a physical attacker and a magic user (Blitz and Ophi are best for this fight, though Gulrock can be a good choice for your physical attacker as well). Be sure to keep everyone healed, either with Blue Magic or with good old Curaga. Vheri will go down soon enough.

Vheri: *grunts in pain as he falls, magical energy draining from his body* Lucilla: Whats happening to him? Ophi: Maybe he sprung a leak? Artemis: Sort of the injuries hes sustained have allowed the fresh souls to drain out of his body. Melana: !!! I can hear them! Vheri: They told methey told me I was doing good for my countryVignus said I would be a hero Melana: There is no heroism in the use of others souls for this purpose. Artemis: You should have walked away. Ophi: Please hes in pain *tries to comfort him* Vheri: *backs off* Why why are you doing all of this? Melana: You cant see that by now? Blitz: Were trying to create a world where no one has to die for their country. A world of peace, where all people use magical energy for the good of mankind. Vheri: That world does not exist *hes clearly dying now* Aahhhh!!! Ophi: *gasps* Artemis: *extends his hand* Blitz: Artemis, what are you doing? Artemis: I will end his suffering. Blitz: By killing him? Vheri: do it! Artemis: *vaporizes the dying Vheri with a blast of dark energy* Melana: !! Blitz: Artemis, you didnt have to do that! Artemis: I granted him his dying wish. What do you think well do to Vignus once we stop him? Blitz: Artemis: Hand him over to the Gozans? Or let him go free? The sooner you learn that some people will have to die, the quicker we can bring peace to this world. After a bit more dialogue, the party can explore the rest of the second floor. The warping of the palace continues, though there arent any large expanses like what you had to endure on the first floor, as your main obstacles now are physical and magical security barriers to restrict your access further in the palace. Eventually, youll reach the grand conference room. The screens in the room light up and on them, Alexias torture in the research facility is shown. Zukan is personally torturing Alexia. Artemis: What in the hell is this?! *shatters the screens with magical energy, only for them to regenerate and turn back on* NO! Melana: Dont watch, Artemis! Zukan is here, hes trying to get you out of focus! Zukan: *laughing as he descends from the ceiling* Artemis: BASTARD! *begins to summon Alexander*

Zukan: *dispels the summon and smites Artemis to the ground* Do you really think Id taunt you with these images if I wasnt prepared for the full might of your power? Melana: Are you prepared for mine, you sick freak? *runs at Zukan and slashes furiously at him, only to have her sword blocked against his magical barriers* Sanathri: *mixes up an exploding potion and hurls it at Zukan* Zukan: *forms another barrier, causing the potion to bounce off and back at the group, nearly exploding right on top of them* Artemis: Ill bring this whole building down! Zukan: With the Celestriad inside? This building is now indestructible, so long as the Celestriad resides in Vignus hands Blitz: And what about you? Youre always at his side plotting, scheming youve never thought once of betraying him? Zukan: *laughing* My boy, I MADE Vignus. Why would I destroy my greatest creation? As long as I am at his side, I share in his power and even a fraction of a percent of infinity is still infinity. Im letting him do all the dirty work while I just enjoy the ride. And enjoy it I did *Alexias screams echo through the room* Artemis: YOU SICK BASTARD! *shoots more magical energy at Zukan* Zukan: *dodges it* You keep using that word. Ill have you know my parents were happily married! before I killed them and absorbed their souls! *laughs and creates a portal behind him* Blitz: What the hell are you doing? Zukan: Mmmjust hedging my bets. If by some miracle you do defeat Vignus, you wont touch me! Besides, I have a very important matter to attend to seems another Guardians been discovered, an ancient creature from the deepest of depths perhaps I shall make a pact with him perhaps I shall find Alexias soul in the pits of hell and torment it further! Perhaps both. Adieu! Artemis: NO!!! *lunges at Zukan as he disappears through the portal* DAMMIT! *pounds the conference table, then smashes it to bits with a spell* You cowardly *destroys another table, then shatters all the screens* little freak!!! The party manages to talk Artemis down, reminding him that Vignus is a far more pressing matter as long as he holds the Celestriad. They remind Artemis that if they can beat Vignus, Zukan will be easily defeated. Blitz: Wherever he runs, no matter how deep a hole the little coward digs for himself, well find him. Melana: And well crush him. Continue onward, eventually youll know youre getting close to the chamber where Vignus is keeping the Celestriad (a portal inside his office with a save point outside). Enter the portal and move up a ways. The confrontation with Vignus begins. Vignus: *standing in front of the Celestriad, its power radiating through his body as the party runs toward him* Blitz: Its over, Vignus! Surrender right now!

Vignus: *laughing* Do you really think I would give up now? Now that I have all of this POWER? *blasts the group with a tremendous burst of energy from the Celestriad, bringing them all to their knees* I can see everything the battle in the streets *a brief scene shows Gozan and Kunarian soldiers clashing in the streets outside* the people in the cities of Goza, trembling in fear I have something the armies in the Great War never had a decisive, unstoppable advantage. I will not be defeated by anyone, especially not the likes of you! Blitz: *he begins to stand* Do you really think you can rule the world like this? With that thing? Sure, the people might fear you Kunarians might admire you but theyll remember the peace there was before, before people like you brought war and bloodshed! There are many Kunarians who know of your crimes, know what happened in Gale when they find out all the innocent blood that had to be shed to win this war, they too will rise up against you! Vignus: Ill kill anyone who opposes me! Blitz: Then youll have to kill everyone, and youll rule nothing but an empty shell of a world! You might be a psychotic, power-hungry maniac, but youre not genocidal! Otherwise, youd have started this war a long time ago! Vignus: What in the hell do you mean? Hark: Yeah, Blitz, I dont understand Melana: I think I do. Ophi: Hmm? Blitz: You and Zukan planned this war a long time ago! Youve been gathering Essence and doing barbaric tests on your own soldiers so you could get a decisive advantage over Goza, but youve always wanted to conquer Goza, not destroy it! Before you got the Celestriad, you wanted to wage a war with your soldiers and technology, but now that youve got it, youve escalated the war so much that you cant win without completely wiping Goza out, and your people will NEVER accept that! But if you back down now, youll lose all your credibility! Think about it! Do you really want to go down this path? Lead the world to destruction just so you can say you were the strongest? Maybe Zukan is that crazy, but not you! Im giving you one last chance to back down, then well have no choice but to fight you! And we wont lose! Vignus: *he stays silent for a moment, contemplating what Blitz has told him* . *then, he starts to laugh* Boy, are you REALLY that nave? You dont think Id be willing to go that far to win this war? The people WILL bow to me, they value their lives far more than their freedom unlike you fools if you wish to die here, then so be it! *suddenly lashes out at Blitz with a lethal blast of magical energy* Blitz: !!! Melana: *interposes herself and holds up her sword, stopping the attack* Ophi and Blitz: Melana!!! Melana: *straining, but holding back the huge amount of energy* Vignus: What?! Melana: You you dont have full control over the Celestriad yet youre not strong enough! Vignus: That is a lie! Melana: *with one mighty swing, she dissipates the attack* You dont know how to control its power every bit of power youve ever had, you stole from someone else.

Thats why we picked Krynia to wield the Celestriad, because she was born with the power and the knowledge to use it, and the wisdom to use it to bring peace to this planet! Vignus: What does she know of power? I killed her! Artemis: No, shes still alive which is more than we can say for you once were finished with you. Vignus: Enough of this! *the Celestriad lights up, along with his body as he rises into the air* Im going to crush all of you and anyone who opposes me! BOSS: Vignus (HP: 38,600) Vignus fights a lot like Vheri, hell buff himself at the start of the fight AND debuff your party, he also likes to cast Reverse on your party members. He has a powerful physical attack with a staff that can cause around 600 or so to a single party member, and he also has a trio of special attacks that use the Celestriads powers: Emerald Corruption, which causes 250-500 damage to your party in addition to a random litany of status effects, Sapphire Excoriation, which hits your party with 16 magical energy beams which cause around 200 damage a piece, and Ruby Immolation, which is a straight whole-party damage attack for 1500+ to everyone. He will counter Dispel by using a Death spell on whoever cast it, though you may want to Dispel him anyway, as a buffed Vignus is very dangerous. When hes down to around 10,000 HP, hell use the three Celestriad specials a lot more frequently. Youll definitely want to heal immediately after any of the specials, Sapphire Excoriation may be more dangerous than Ruby Immolation, as he might kill one of your party members if too many of the beams hit them. Keep yourself buffed and keep pounding away at Vignus whenever you can, try to have at least one character damaging him on every turn. Vignus falls after hes defeated, and Blitz goes to take the Celestriad from him but it glows with an even brighter light, and Vignus walks over to it, gripping it tightly to more quickly absorb its power. Vignus: I will never EVER be defeated by you! *his body begins to transform, small strands of flesh, the color of the Celestriads three colors, begin covering parts of his body, he even sprouts brightly growing wings* Melana: Dammit, the longer he has the Celestriad, the stronger he becomes! We have to defeat him NOW! Blitz: Right! Everyone, this is it! This is for the sake of everyone in the world! For my parents Ophi: For my grandma! Hark: For my dad! Artemis: For Alexia Lucilla: For our future children! Gulrock: And everyone back in Cliffside! Sanathri: Mmm, and Hark Hark: What? Blitz: Now! Lets finish this!

BOSS: Vignus Victus (HP: 61,000) Vignus Victus is bigger, faster, and badder than Vignus, as threatening as that sounds. He has more powerful versions of all three of his specials (Ruby Infernius is absolutely nasty and if you dont have shell, it WILL hit your entire party for more than 2,000 damage), and he also has Star Flare, which, while never lethal (it does 90% of your partys current HP), is incredibly dangerous and requires immediate healing afterwards. He now wields a horrific claw which can do nasty physical damage to your party, and hes added the Comet spell to his arsenal. Basically, everything this guy does is devastating and you should have someone on permanent healing duty for the entire fight. As for your other two party members, go crazy with your most powerful attacks. By now, Blitz should have learned some advanced Swordplay skills via the affinity grid. For the love of god, USE THEM. Spinblade Sever, if timed right, will do 5,000+ damage every time. If Ophi knows Holy, she should use it every turn (devote another magic user to healing). Gulrock should use Enrage to drive up his critical chances. You might want to devote Sanathri to healing, her healing potions are very useful, though if you use someone else as a healer, she can significantly buff your party. Artemis, if hes in your party, should cast Leviathan or Lumin every single turn. If you are leveled normally, Vignus Victus cannot get in a lucky kill shot as long as you utilize your healer effectively. He will get a number of close calls, but you should ultimately prevail. *The party has done far too much damage to Vignus for him to sustain his hold over the Celestriads power. He collapses to his knees.* Vignus: Nno.how could this have happened? Blitz: Does it matter? We won you should have surrendered when you had the chance. Melana: *approaches Vignus* Its over. Vignus: NO! *he clenches his fist, and Melana and the others fall to their knees, energy chains wrapping around their bodies* I I wont let you take it from me! *The Celestriad continues to glow. Everything is shaking.* Artemis: Vignus! You fool! Youre too weak to stand! Blitz: Aaaaah!!! Whats happening? Vignus: *clenching his fist tighter, causing the dimension theyre in to compress* Melana: Hes going to crush us all! Ophi: No! Gulrock: Nnnghhh! Vignus: Iwill kill all of you and I will survive! And the Celestriad will be mine! *The party screams in pain and terror as Vignus continues to compress the dimension around them. Vignus laughs victoriously and is suddenly struck down by a burst of lightning through his back. He falls, dead to the ground. The chains around the party dissipate.* Blitz: What the? *looks to see Krynia standing with the Celestriad, smiling warmly* Krynia! Melana: You were supposed to stay in bed Krynia: I am tougher than I look. *smiles* Is everyone all right? Ophi: I think so!

*The pocket dimension dissipates, leaving Krynia and the others standing in Vignus office. Vignus body is still on the ground.* Krynia: The Celestriad is safe and Im glad you are as well. Hark: You saved us! Thank you Blitz: Yeah but the war isnt over yet Krynia: No, but it soon will be, thanks to all of you. Youve accomplished something truly wonderful. Melana: Krynia, we couldnt have done any of this without you. Krynia: Hmm? Blitz: You were the one who comforted me after my parents died you guided us all to the Celestriad. You risked your life to try and protect it from Vignus. Ophi: Thats right, and you saved our lives just now! Youre a hero! Krynia: Please I its all too much. You are the true heroes. You have changed the world. *the power of the Celestriad flows into her* Your work is finished *she raises her hand* I will take care of everything. *Krynia ascends into the air, rising up to the ceiling, which she causes to disappear with a wave of her hand. She ascends above the building, her body aglow as those fighting in the street stop and watch the spectacle unfold.* Kunarian Soldier: Who is that? Gozan Soldier: That woman, shes Kunarian Soldier: The Sylvid princess? Krynia: This fighting must cease! Far too long, this world has been divided in war clashes between those fighting under the banner of Goza and Kunara have threatened to rend this world asunder! But now I bring good news to all this world shall be united, united under a new banner! Melana: *looks a bit uneasy* Blitz: A new banner? Krynia: The nations of Goza and Kunara are no more for now now this world will be united under the Sylvid Dynasty, with I as your new queen! Melana: Queen? Krynia: *power coalesces into her hand* There will be peace or there will be death! *Beams of white light rain down from Krynias hand, down upon the city. Buildings are destroyed, soldiers are vaporized. Both sides try to turn their weapons on her, but she repels them with a barrier of magical energy.* Blitz: Krynia, stop! What are you doing? Krynia: What I have planned since the day I was born the only way this world will ever know peace is under my familys rule! Melana: WHAT? Ophi: Krynia, no! *tears are streaking down her face* Please, you cant do this! *Krynia continues to rain destruction on the city as the soldiers on both sides run for cover. Krynia smiles for a moment.* Krynia: See? Ive already gotten them to stop fighting! Blitz: By trying to kill everyone? How long were you planning this? Krynia: *descends to meet the party* I told you, since the moment I was born my family is the only thing that will bring peace to this world.

Gulrock: Your familys dead! Krynia: For now. The potential the Celestriad carries is limitless. Already I can feel their souls inside, begging for release Hark: We we were supposed to bring peace to the world! Krynia: Do you really think youre the only ones whove been trying to bring peace? Did you see those corpses in the underwater city? They were there, werent they? I told them that would be where they could find the Sapphire Star, but they never came back perhaps I shouldve done like I did with you and sent them to the volcano first, or maybe the forest Lucilla: You mean to tell us that there were others? Krynia: I needed someone to find the Celestriad and bring it to me. I couldnt do it myself, if either of the two nations knew I was looking, theyd kill me immediately. I needed to keep both nations from gaining too much power over the other putting monsters in the quarries and caves kept their miners busy and also had the lovely side effect of letting me know who might be worthy of doing my errands for me. Melana: The monsters all over the world those were YOU? Krynia: Most of them. Ive had plenty of time to study the subject, after all. *Blitz is shaking in horror at these revelations. Hes been played for a fool and he knows it. He grips his sword in rage.* Krynia: I will have my family back all I need is time. Blitz: Time you wont have! *rushes at Krynia, sword drawn* Krynia: *dodges his sword swipe and produces a sword of her own, a beautiful, glimmering crystal sword that she rams through his body* Blitz: *gasping, blood pouring from his mouth* Melana: BLITZ!!! Krynia: *ascends above the roof once more, she continues radiating power massively, barely able to control the Celestriads growing energy* Thank you again *she smiles and disappeares into the stratosphere as beams of light rain down on the city, several hitting perilously close to the palace* Artemis: Dammit! Shes going to bring this whole place down! It can barely stand as it is, Vignus weakened it too much when he had the Celestriad! Melana: *cradling Blitz in her arms, determined to get him out* Hark: Melana, come on! We have to go! *helps her carry out Blitz, only to fall through a hole in the floor* Ophi: Hark! *reaches for him, but its too late* *Another violent shock rocks the building. The entire party scatters, Lucilla pulling Ophi back with her. Melana drags Blitz, shed carry him but shes weak from exertion in her previous battles. The entire palace is engulfed in light, the partys fate unknown.* Krynia: I will make for myself a glorious throne of stardust *she ascends into space, larger and larger beams of light rocketing outward from her body, the beams slam into Elinal and the surrounding areas, some now rocketing across the ocean as the friction from the atmosphere reflects the energy of the Celestriad in all directions* *There is now a cutscene where Krynia disappears, and all we see is the havoc the Celestriads radiating energy pulses are causing. Elinal is heavily damaged in the rain of light, while elsewhere, an island is completely vaporized by a stray beam. The storm of

energy continues for several minutes, but soon dies down save for one final beam, rocketing into the stratosphere. It comes down right on top of Centralia. We see the people of Centralia watching the light show from across the world, unaware of their impending doom. The massive beam of energy comes down on the city and as people scream and run for their lives, it makes impact. The entire city, President Bartelan included, is vaporized in a wave of magical energy. Only a crater remains.* SoburaThere is a brief cutscene showing Melana, talking to Blitz on his first day on the job as an essence miner. Shes browbeating him. The conversation seems to be viewed through a haze, as if part of a dream. Melana: Youve got to be more careful, you nearly caused an entire vein to be lost! I will NOT tell you again, follow all of my directions, understand? Blitz: Yyeah! I will Im sorry. Melana: Dont apologize, just do it! The scene switches to a series of rapid memories that trace across the screen. They coalesce into a single vision of Melana, just smiling as the sun shines beautifully down on her. The vision fades, and is replaced with the ceiling of a small dwelling. A man approaches. Biggs: Hey! Hey, he opened his eyes! Blitz: *quickly looks around* Melana!!! *blinks as a couple other workers, a male and a female, come over* Wedge: Youre finally awake, huh? Mariah: Oh, thank goodness! Blitz: *tries to sit up* Biggs: Oh, no, no, you cant move just yet! Blitz: *sits up* Im fine what happened? *rubbing his head* Wheres Melana? Wheres Krynia!! *tries to stand* Ill Ill kill her! Biggs: Settle down! Mariah: Here *hands Blitz a glass of water* Drink this Blitz: *drinks it, but keeps trying to stand* Whats going on? I remember being in Elinal, and then Krynia went crazy! And WHERE IS MELANA? Biggs: If you sit back down, Ill tell you! A lots happened in the two weeks since you were out. Blitz: Two weeks?! The three people, who turn out to be workers in the SEEC Quarry, tell Blitz what happened. An exhausted, injured Melana carried Blitz into Sobura before walking alone to the quarry. The workers tell Blitz that Melana walked into the deepest, most dangerous part of the quarry (which has once again been overrun by monsters) and hasnt been seen since. None of Blitzs friends have been seen, either. Centralias destroyed, Elinal is badly damaged, and Krynia is believed to be in space, orbiting the planet in a shimmering

landmass in the sky. Every so often, the landmass will glow, which causes every light on the planet and every crystal of essence to briefly dim and then illuminate again, as if theyre in resonance. Biggs: Aint been able to mine at the quarry. It aint just the monsters, its our equipment. Everything powered by Essences been on the fritz these last couple of weeks, itll stop working and then start again, but never for too long. Blitz: And what about the war? Wedge: Goza and Kunara have stopped fighting each other, theyre trying to figure out a way to get up there and take out Krynia. Biggs: Only problem is, both countries have another set of targets they want to take out you guys. Blitz: US? Mariah: I guess everyones blaming you for what happened they said you sold out the planet by giving Krynia the Celestriad. Wedge: Dont worry everyone here at the quarry knows you guys were just trying to help. Im sure there are other friendly people out there, but most people hate your guts. Thats why we really dont want you up and aroundBlitz: *stands up* I have to find Melana besides those people are right. How could we have ever trusted her? How could we have been so stupid?! Mariah: All you wanted to do was stop the war. Blitz: And now we might be responsible for something worse I just want to find Melana. *limps over to the door, clutching his still-wounded stomach* Wedge: Its suicide to go out there, you know! Blitz: I dont care. *leaves* Biggs: At least buy some supplies before you leave! Youre given control of Blitz now, and youll be going solo for a little while, so make sure youre prepared with plenty of healing items and status-repelling accessories. The company store has some new stuff for sale, but none of its better than what youve currently got equipped. You can go outside and fight some new enemies, though the eastern cave and the desert are blocked, as Blitz doesnt want to go too far from where Melana might be. Your only choice is to head up into the quarry and see if you can find her. SEEC Quarry, NorthThe quarry is mostly like you remember it, though the monsters are much stronger and theres a massive earthen canyon once you go a certain distance. It seems the monsters have been busy carving themselves a new home. Windswept CanyonAs you make your way through the narrow canyon corridors, Blitz will occasionally stop as a memory of Melana or of his friends echoes through his mind. He seems to be growing weaker as he walks (though this isnt reflected in the actual enemy battles), and

Blitz is struggling not to succumb to despair. Finally, hell reach a point where he collapses from his injuries and sees to fade into a flashback of his parents. Blitzs mother: Darling, you dont have to put yourself through all of this stay here, well make it through. Blitz: No, mom, theres no more work here theres a quarry on the Southern Island where I know I can find work! Blitzs father: We might still be able to send you to the university in Centralia Blitz: Theres no money for that anymore. Our only hope is me finding a job to support this family. Mom, dad, youve done everything for me its time I show how thankful I am to have parents like you. *Return to the present day, Blitz is on his knees.* Blitz: I I knew this was going to happen! I knew not to trust Krynia but I helped her anyway I wanted revenge *grips the dirt on the ground* All of this, everything, everyone that died its my fault!!! *Theres another flashback of an 11-year-old Blitz confronting a bully that was picking on a little girl in his home village. Blitz bests the bully and gets him down on the ground.* Little Blitz: *getting ready to stomp the bully* Bully: Please, no! *covering himself* Little Blitz: *is going to do it when the little girl gets in front of him* Girl: Its okay! Im safe now. You dont have to hurt him. Little Blitz: But he might do it again! Girl: Well if he does thats who he is, but youre not him, you dont like to hurt anyone! I know *giggles* *We see Blitz again, trying to get those thoughts out of his mind. Did he really know Krynia was going to turn on everyone?* Blitz: I wanted to give the Celestriad to Melana I always did Melana shes shes in trouble! *Blitz hears something roar and looks up. Theres a high plateau in front of him, surrounded by rocky pillars. Someone is atop that plateau.* Melana: *just training, alone she looks weak from lack of food and water and looks like shes just been training for days, she listlessly thrusts her sword, then turns and thrusts again her legs are wobbly, she can barely stand* Blitz: Melana!!! Melana: *doesnt stop* Blitz: *sees a creature climbing atop the plateau* MELANA!!! *Blitz runs up the rocky platforms to make his way up to the pillar. The creature, a fierce beast on two legs with massive scythe-like claws, suddenly attacks, pinning Melana to the ground. She fights fiercely, stabbing at it with her sword, but shes clearly too weak to defend herself at this point.* Blitz: *leaps at the creature and kicks it away from Melana* Melana: Blitz? *The creature recovers quickly, knocking Blitz away from Melana and lunging at her again, only for her to parry its lunge with a sword, she somehow manages to get to her

feet while holding off the creature.* Melana: Blitz, get out of here! I came out here for a reason! *Blitz pulls Melana away from the creature. It leaps at them both, prompting them to hop down the platforms and run into a channel of the canyon as the creature gives pursuit.* Blitz: What reason is that? Melana: *There are a series of narrow escapes which require the use of quick commands to avoid the creatures lunges. However, if you miss a command, you wont die, you just miss a chance to damage the creature.* Blitz: Melana, answer me! Melana: I wanted to die out here, all right? Blitz: WHAT? *The creature has them cornered* Melana: You were right, I shouldve taken the Celestriad I was too weak to accept the burden Blitz: So you really want to die? You think that will help anyone? If you want to die, whyd you fight that thing off? Melana: .maybe I dont know WHAT I want! Blitz: do you want to help me? Melana: It doesnt look like I have a choice! Youll have a chance to re-equip Melana before fighting a boss. BOSS: Vascilade (HP: 39,000, minus 2,000 for each quick command executed successfully, up to 5 in all) The Vascilade is purely a physical attacker. Itll mostly use quick slashes of its powerful claws to damage the party, though it can mix things up a bit with a poison or paralysis attack. For this fight, have Blitz use his best Swordplay while Melana uses her strongest magic, Vascilade is weak to Aeroga, so use that, unless you need to heal. Vascilades physical attacks arent really strong enough to be much of a threat unless you neglect your healing, its biggest threat is the Whirligig which will do around 400 to both party members. Despite the fact that you only have two party members, the fight should be easy. Once Vascilade is dead, the immediate threat is over, though Melana will still be cryptic with Blitz. Eventually, Blitz manages to get Melana to admit that she doesnt really want to die (because otherwise, she wouldnt have tried to fight off the creature). She says that she came out to the quarry to punish herself for letting Krynia execute her plans and for not being able to protect the others. Its getting dark, so Blitz and Melana decide to camp out. The scene continues. Melana: Even if we can find the others, well never be able to defeat Krynia. Shes far stronger than Vignus ever was and shes had two whole weeks to attune herself with the Celestriads power.

Blitz: We have to try Id rather die fighting Krynia than live in a world where she rules over everything. Melana: I agree I just dont want us to throw our lives away. I dont want YOU to throw your life away. Blitz: They told me you carried me all the way back to Sobura. Melana: I had the airships help most of the way. Blitz, you were dying. I wouldve done it for anyone. Blitz: I I know. Its okay, Melana, I know you dont dont feel the same way I do. This isnt the time to be worried about that anyway. *Melana keeps looking at Blitz, concern in her eyes.* Blitz: When I woke up the first thing I thought about *Melana quickly takes his hand* Melana: Do you want to stop Krynia? Blitz: ? Melana: Well find the others. Well stop her. Well save the world. Is that what you want? *The theme song of Final Fantasy XV, Shining From Far Away (performed in English by Olivia Olson), begins to play. Melanas hand tightens slightly around Blitzs.* Blitz: Yeah. Melana: Then I promise, Ill go anywhere with you to make that happen. You and me and all our friends, together. I wont give up. Blitz: thank you. *The song continues to play as the scene skips forward a couple of times. Blitz is lying down on his back, looking up at the stars, his eyes focused on the shimmering, threecolored point of light where Krynia is. Melana is sitting nearby, tending to the campfire.* Blitz: Where do you think they all are? Melana: I I saw Hark fall in the palace, but I know hes alive somewhere. If you could survive what you did, so could he. Blitz: So well find everyone then? Melana: We will. *she walks over and lies down next to Blitz, looking up at the stars by his side* Even if everyone else in the world stands in our way, all we need is each other. Blitz: *smiles* Melana: Hmm? *looks at him* Blitz: Sorry I know you didnt meanMelana: Goodnight, Blitz. *she holds his hand again as the two keep looking up at the stars together, the scene now switches to Blitz making breakfast for Melana* Blitz: I know you probably havent eaten in a whileMelana: Your cookings hideous, theres no wayBlitz: *pushes a piece of cooked food into Melanas mouth* Eat. *smiles* Melana: ! Blitz: Its good, right? Melana: only because Im hungry. *she takes the rest of the food and begins shoveling it into her mouth as Blitz watches and laughs* *The two run through the canyon, dodging more monsters as they make it back to Sobura. They enter the miners village to a chorus of cheers from the assembled miners, to which Melana just tells them all to get back to work. The scene then shows Melana

taking Blitz to a secret area of the quarry where she stored the airship. The two of them approach it, slowly walking over to the ascent ladder.* Melana: Well, here we are. You ready for this? Blitz: Im always ready. Lets go find our friends! *he runs over to the ladder now, about to start climbing* *Melana approaches Blitz as he is about to climb the ladder. He sees her and backs off a moment, thinking she wants to go first and chivalrously allowing her to do so. But thats not what she wants. As the song climaxes, Melana pulls Blitz close and kisses him on the lips, her eyes closing as they embrace. She then climbs up the ladder, with Blitz following, somewhat in a daze after the kiss. The song and cutscene end with a beautiful panoramic view of the stars, the quarry, and the airship as Melana and Blitz walk on the deck, ready to embark on the next phase of their journey.* After the airship takes off, youre given control again in airship piloting mode. As soon as you go a little ways in any direction, theres a cutscene. The Gozan military takes aim at the airship and fires, bringing it down. Melana tries to steer it, but it crash lands on an island off the coast of Kastith. Island East of KastithYou mightve tried coming to this island before when you had the airship and noticed some kind of closed off tunnel that you werent able to enter. Think you might be able to go inside now? Well, before you can find out, theres a cutscene where Blitz and Melana stagger out of their wrecked airship, only for Gozan military troops to come ashore and pursue them. The two try to run but the Gozans quickly catch up, and a fight ensues. You have to survive an encounter with a Heatseeker and two Gozan Elites, not a difficult battle but one you should still try to finish quickly. Blitz and Melana continue to run, only for more Gozan troops to pursue them. They run toward the closed tunnel, which suddenly opens up and releases canisters of choking gas that fly into the crowd of soldiers, incapacitating them long enough for Blitz and Melana to rush inside. Woman: Hurry, quickly! Blitz: What is this place? *the tunnel entrance closes behind them, keeping the soldiers out for the moment* The woman explains that theyre in a tunnel that was built to connect the Kastith Underbelly to an island offshore. Its a relic of a day when the residents of the Underbelly feared a purge from Kastithian officials above (some 100 or so years ago), and its being used again, as Gozan officials have come into Kastith seeking reprisal against the citizens of the Underbelly, due to the fact that thats where Ophi hails from. Ophis returned to the Underbelly to help the citizens there escape before the Gozans come, but the tunnels have unfortunately filled with monsters, making them too dangerous to provide an evacuation route. Woman: Ophis been working to clear the monsters out, but she cant do it alone theres a section of the old tunnels that are quickly filling with powerful beasts, too strong

for one person to fight. I fear that if we cant go through the tunnels, the Gozan army will do terrible things to us all Melana: Where is Ophi now? Woman: Im not sure, she said she was going to try and clear the tunnels again, but that was yesterday! Melana: Shes probably in trouble, we have to find her! As Blitz and Melana head off to find Ophi, theres a cutscene where Gozan soldiers can be seen breaking through into the tunnel. Theyre led by a man named Markieff, who is determined to kill every last resident of the Kastithian sewers. Kastith SubterraneThis dungeon is in a lot of ways like the sewers you traversed earlier in the game. You can actually traverse the tunnels until you reach the sewers, though the entrance to those (and the underbelly as well) is blocked off. The enemies arent too particularly dangerous. Eventually youll reach an area with a save point where Markieff will confront you, this leads to another battle with Gozan soldiers and youre forced to flee down a tunnel. Now, Gozan military soldiers and machines are added to the enemy rotation of the tunnels. The Gozan mechs tend to be slightly tougher than the normal tunnel enemies, though the tunnel enemies can cause more status effects. Eventually, you come to a large open room that seems to be a dead end. Melana will discover Ophis cloak and some of her blood, along with signs of a monster attack. Melana: Ophi, no Blitz: You dont really think she was killed here, do you? Melana: I dont I dont know! But theres so much blood here what other conclusion can there be? Blitz: Then we were too late! Melana: Dammit! *she falls to her knees* Ophi she must have fought for days here by herself, trying to clear out those monsters I wonder if she felt the same way I did? Blitz: Like how you were trying to punish yourself for letting Krynia get the Celestriad? You dont think Ophi you dont think she tried fighting monsters by herself as punishment for what happened to Hark, do you? Melana: *bowing her head* Blitz: Ophi doesnt think like that! Shes different, shes she can bounce back from anything. Even when shes scared, or sadMelana: Just stop it *starting to tear up* We we have to tell Ophis grandmother that she*The two hear a scream. They rush out of the deep tunnels to see whats happened its the woman who helped them before. Shes dying.* Woman: They they went into the sewers the Gozans Blitz: No! Melana: *trying to tend to the womans injuries, but theyre far too severe* Woman: The Gozans plan to kill everyone. You must stop them. Where is Ophi?

*Blitz and Melana cant bring themselves to tell the woman what happened to Ophi. She dies in their arms, but not before giving Blitz and Melana what appear to be special crests, given to her by Opala to give to them.* Melana: We might not have been able to save her or Ophi, but we can still save everyone in the Underbelly! Come on! The crests bestowed on Blitz and Melana turn out to be the Affinity Marks for Break Damage Limit, which allows you to exceed the default limit of 9,999 damage and do up to 99,999 damage with any character who activated that node on the Affinity Grid (you couldve earned it naturally through leveling up, but it wouldve taken a LOT of grinding). You probably dont have anything that can exceed that at the moment except possibly Full-Force Attacks, but its good to know that your damage output potential has now vastly increased. You now need to head through the sewers (its a straightforward path since youre not heading deep into the sewers to slay a monster). Youll be fighting scripted battles with Gozan mechs along the way. At the very end of the sewers, right before you reach the village, is a large mech thats almost like a mini-boss battle, it has 20,000 HP and some powerful missile attacks youll need to deal with. Once the mech goes down, you can save and continue on. A cutscene will begin. Markieff: *enters the town with some of his soldiers and battlemechs as the Underbelly residents cower in fear* Your witch has unleashed a plague upon this world and now you will all bear the cost of her sins. Man: Youre wrong! Ophi tried to save this world youre the one whos brought the plague! If it wasnt for people like you, Ophi and her friends wouldnt have had to try to find the Celestriad to stop you! Markieff: *smirking, he signals to some of his soldiers, who begin attacking people in the village, the man is knocked to the ground* Destroy him. *A battlemech approaches the man as he cowers in fear, his family is begging for mercy nearby. The mech prepares its missiles, when suddenly they are blocked by a barrier of magic, the battlemech is then blasted to pieces.* Markieff: What in the hell? *Ophi, now in a rather revealing set of cobbled-together clothing, slightly wounded with some blood still running down her arm, approaches Markieff while looking quite uncharacteristically badass.* Ophi: You wont hurt anyone here! Get out, right now! Markieff: So you finally decided to show yourself. Ophi: Last chance! *her body lights up with magical energy* Markieff: *sends another battlemech at Ophi that blocks her Firaga spell, it fires a beam at her that she struggles to block* Ophi: *gritting her teeth in exertion* Everyone, get to the tunnels! Ill hold them all off! Markieff: *to his men* Kill anyone who tries to pass! *Suddenly, Blitz and Melana rush forth, easily knocking out all the soldiers and running toward Ophi and Markieff.* Blitz: Ophi? Melana: Youre alive?!

Ophi: Friends! *staggers back as the beam intensifies* Nnnnhhhh! IIm glad to see you! Blitz: We thought you died back in the tunnel! Wasnt that your blood? Ophi: Probably! The big monsters in there were really strongI I didnt want to kill them but I didnt have a choice, the tunnels are safe to pass through now! *barely able to stand* Markieff: *to Blitz and Melana* I thought you were both shot down Melana: No, but youre gonna pay for trying! Markieff: *ceases his warmechs attack* Well see I have a feeling youre not prepared for this *he climbs into his mech, which encases around him, creating a fusion of man and machine* Blitz: Ophi, can you still fight? Ophi: I can always fight! Melana: Good, I think were gonna need you.! As always, youre given the chance to outfit Ophi before the fight. BOSS: Markieff (HP: 52,000) Markieffs mech is equipped with a giant sword that can slice one or all three of your party members, it also has a nasty laser and a special attack called Laser Array, which, as you might expect, hits all three of your characters for some nasty damage. In addition, Markieff has a few other attacks ranging from pathetic to mildly annoying, hes not really all that difficult, but you should heal immediately after Laser Array. For your attacks, have Blitz use his standard physical attack or possibly a Swordplay technique, while Melana and Ophi rip into Markieff with Thundaga. Melana MIGHT exceed 9,999 damage here, if she can, this fight will end pretty quickly. Markieffs defeat causes his mech to short circuit and badly malfunction, and it collapses to the ground. Markieff: Nnnggghhh! *trying to escape his smoldering mech, but its too badly damaged* Melana: Everyone, get back, its going critical!!! *quickly makes sure the townspeople back off while Blitz and Ophi try desperately to help Markieff escape* Markieff: Why are you helping me? Blitz: Because we dont think anyone deserves to die for making a mistake. Ophi: Please, let us help! Markieff: *screaming as the mech approaches criticality* Melana: Blitz, Ophi, both of you, its too late! Blitz: No, we can help him! Melana: *forcibly yanks both of them back* Ophi: Melana!!! *they get back just in time as the mech explodes, taking Markieff with it. The three pick themselves up, Ophi showing a lot of regret.* Blitz: Ophi its its all right. He he made his choice. Ophi: *bowing her head*

The two continue speaking to Ophi, glad that she and the village are safe. Melana apologizes about Hark, but Ophi explains that Hark survived and in fact visited her about a week after what happened. Hark managed to survive the destruction of the Palace of Administration, but he felt terrible about everything that happened and began looking for a way to get stronger to beat Krynia. Thats when he learned about the Thieves Tower, an ancient and hidden fortress on an inaccessible part of the Gozan continent, where skilled thieves can gain the power they need to live without fear. He went to tell Ophi about his journey and promised her hed return once he became stronger, then left to the Thieves Tower. Blitz: Looks like thats where we need to go next, isnt it? Ophi: I know he wanted to do this alone but the least we can do for him is give him an audience, right? *giggling* And either way, I know my people will be safe, at least for now. The party visits Opala, who thanks Blitz and Melana for protecting Ophi. She bestows upon Ophi a Break Damage Limit Affinity Mark and also gives her the Radiant Staff, which provides a major boost to Ophis magic and magic defense. Opala tells Blitz and Melana that she knows people in the Underbelly can help fix the airship, though it will take some time. Now that they can hide in the tunnels, theyll be safe and Ophi can feel free to help her friends save the world. The next thing you need to do is head up into Kastith, where a contact of the ancient Circle of Thieves can be found. KastithThe way to the Tower of Thieves can be found by finding the Circle of Thieves contact in Kastith. Youll have to engage in a bit of a dialogue puzzle, youll need to talk to certain people in town, which leads to other people who can help you out. Melana and Ophi will offer clues along the way, so it isnt too frustrating, though you may need to engage in trial and error at some parts. Eventually, youll be informed that the rebellious girl Alice in the Veylon family mansion has a boyfriend who is a member of the Circle. Meet with her, and shell discuss with her boyfriend Nabu about the Tower of Thieves. Nabu: The Tower is only a legend. Alice: These three say it is real please, Nabu, they can be trusted. They are the ones who gathered the Celestriad. Theyre trying to save the world! Nabu: We are already aware of them if they come to the Tower, they will lead the power of both nations against us. We have already refused to accept the one boy into the Circle. Ophi: You mean Hark? Nabu: He staggered into our Tower, begging us to let him take the trials. We told him that he would die if he even undertook one, let alone tried to conquer them all. I do not know where he is now. Blitz: Please, guide us to the Tower. We just want to find our friend.

Nabu: It is only out of love for Alice that I will agree to guide you. Well arrange a boat from the nearby port city to take you to the Gozan shores from there, I will guide you through the secret mountain pass to the Tower. Any trouble you bring along the way, you must handle or we will, and we will not spare any of you. Ophi: Thank you and please, reconsider Hark is the bravest, strongest person Ive ever known. He would not seek out this power if he was not ready for it. Nabu: I may consider putting in a good word for him but that all depends on how you conduct yourselves on your way to the Tower. Come to the port quickly, a boat will be waiting. Do not delay You should now head up to Yali (though you may want to check Kastiths stores for new equipment for your party first). You can skip Mt. Kastith or go over the long way, if you do, there will be some new monsters for you to fight, nothing too good for grinding though. Sure enough, the Thieves Circle has arranged a boat for you in the port. Quickly board it. After a quick scene on the boat, youre delivered to the southeastern coast of Goza. You may have seen a large mountain near the town of Shroud that you were unable to enter, now thats where youre headed next. Nabu takes the party to the base of the mountain and opens a secret passage for them. Mt. ManifestThe mountain path is rather straightforward, there are side paths but Nabu keeps the party going forward. There are some enemies to fight, nothing too dangerous. After a short walk, the party will reach Thieves Tower. Thieves TowerThe thieves inhabiting the tower will react with hostility at first, but Nabu vouches for the party and theyre allowed in. However, youre quickly told that Hark is gone and that he hasnt been seen. Ophi gets furious with the Thieves Circle for turning Hark away, but for all of her yelling and anger, the thieves wont budge. Ophi believes that Hark is still somewhere on the mountain, so its time to head back down and search. Nabu stays behind at the tower, leaving Blitz, Melana, and Ophi to carry out the search alone. Mt. ManifestThis time, youre free to take the various side paths on the mountain. Its a little confusing at first, without a map youll need to carefully navigate winding pathways to reach Harks location. There are some treasures to find, for a couple of them youll need to carefully descend a cliff face in such a way that you land near the treasures (its similar to the roller coaster puzzle on Mt. Coral in Final Fantasy VII). Eventually, though, the party will locate Hark, alone on an ice-cold cliff face. Hes shivering and weak, though when the party approaches him, he reacts differently than you would expect.

Ophi: Hark! *runs toward him, only for him to back off* Hark: No! *backs away from Ophi* I I have to show them have to show them Im strong enough to take their trials! Blitz: Hark, youve been out here for a whole week? Hark: Im strong enough to do this! *shaking* I I dont need your help, I dont need anyones help! Ophi: Hark, please! Were your friends, were here to help you. Hark: NO! *runs away from Ophi, up a steep peak* The group pursues Hark, who loses his footing on the peak and nearly falls. Melana: Hark, I was in the same situation you are! I was desperate, trying to prove that I could still fight but you cant do this to yourself, you cant do this alone! Blitz: Were your friends Ive been your best friend for like a whole year you dont need these guys, theyre not your friends! Hark: You dont understand. Im different. Blitz: Dont tell us we dont understand you, we understand you better than anyone! Hark: *shaking his head* You guys dont know anything about me. Hark goes on to explain that his real mother didnt die, she left home three years after having Hark. Harks mother Rubidia is the leader of the Thieves Circle and Hark is descended from that bloodline. He and his father were left heartbroken at Rubidias departure and at first Hark tried to get as far away from his mothers skills as possible, but the thieves blood is a part of him and he developed some of the orders skills without even trying. He didnt just come to the Thieves Tower to get stronger, he came to confront his mother. Blitz: Hark Im sorry I know it mustve been too painful to tell us before. Hark: Yeah. It was. *shivering* I wont let them reject me Ill show them and Ill show my mother how strong I can be. Ophi: You dont need to prove that to anyone. *she touches his shoulder* You confronted Dynal and saved my life. You helped us get the Celestriad. Hark: Some good that did the Celestriad thing, not the saving you thing. I missed you, Ophi. I missed all of you guys but this is something I have to do alone. Blitz: No. If youre going to confront your mother, were going to be right there with you. Melana: And if they reject you this time, well knock the door down and kick everyones ass until they agree to let your mother speak with you. Ophi: Thats right, no ones going to stop you this time! Hark: all right, lets go back. *still looks unsure* Blitz: You have to be confident, though. They wont let you in looking like that. Melana: Right. Chin up, Hark. Be strong. Ophi: You can do it! You automatically return to the Thieves Tower.

Thieves TowerKalinus: I thought I told you not to come back here. Hark: I demand to be allowed to take the trials. And if you dont let me, Ill force you to let me. Kalinus: Oh, will you? Hark: *draws his knife* Kalinus: *draws a pair of swords* *Blitz, Melana, and Ophi all look ready to back Hark up but he waves them off.* Hark: Im going to beat you and prove my worth. Kalinus: *smirks* Youre making a mistake. Youre given the chance to equip Hark here. BOSS: Kalinus (HP: 22,000) This is a one-on-one fight and Kalinus has a pretty good amount of HP. Hell attack with a single sword slash for around 250, a double sword slash (two hits of around 250), or hell use the Bold Charge for around 700. For that reason, Harks HP should be kept above 1,000 at all times. Youll want to have Hark use his magic, any level two spell is your best bet as youll do around 1,500 or more to Kalinus. This will be a fairly long, drawn-out battle, but with careful execution, you can definitely win. Kalinus: *backs off* Youre determined. Hark: *pointing his knife at Kalinus* Let me in now! Kalinus: *smiles* As you wish. A gas suddenly washes over the party. They all pass out. Hark awakens in a large, dark room. Voice: Welcome, thief, to your second trial Hark: My second? Voice: Confronting Kalinus was the first. These trials have been designed to challenge your particular weaknesses your friends are safe, they have been placed somewhere where they wont be in your way. You must complete these trials alone. Hark: Im ready. A maze is laid out before you. Throughout the maze are various hazards that will deplete Harks HP. If it falls to 0, you are sent back to the start of the maze and told to try again. A couple of the hazards are instant kills, so watch out. Eventually, you reach the end of the maze and confront a ninja-like figure. Kenji: You are swift and brave, but you do not have the skill necessary to defeat me. Hark: I wont be stopped!

BOSS: Kenji (HP: N/A) First off, Hark automatically starts the battle with the HP left after the maze, so if youre hurting from the hazards, youll need to heal immediately. You start the battle with five crests, and Kenji has five. What you need to do is damage Kenji, stun him, and then use the Steal command to get his crests. If you time it perfect, you can get two at once. Of course, Kenji can steal YOUR crests too, and in addition, he can damage you, which means youre fighting a battle on two fronts. Its really not all that hard, but if youre not good on the Steal timing, you might have trouble. Kenjis defeat leaves the pathway open for the third trial. This trial is a cold, icy corridor that leaves Hark in a great deal of pain, as hes already suffering from exposure to the elements on Mt. Manifest. As he goes through the corridor, he is taunted by voices telling him that hell never be as strong as Melana or Blitz, confronting him with all the times during his adventure that he was weak or cowardly. Eventually, the voices get to Hark and he falls to his knees, shaking and gripping his head. Hark: Stop it everyone, just STOP! *rocking back and forth* I cantI cant do it anymore I cant stand up to Krynia I cant protect Ophi He is reassured by memories of Blitz and Melana, encouraging him onward. Its quite an emotional scene, where Hark realizes how brave hes been all along and how much his friends really do need him. At the end of the corridor, he sees Blitz and Melana tied back to back to a pole. Hark: Blitz! Melana! Are you guys okay? Blitz: Yeah, I think so! Melana: Blitz keeps poking my hand. Its annoying. *glares at him* Blitz: Im bored! Hark: *runs toward them, only for a beautiful woman to leap down from the ceiling in front of him* Naya: Youre not going to save them. Youre not going to get past me Hark: Out of my way! BOSS: Naya (HP: 18,000) Nayas specialty is dodging your attacks, and she has a high magic resistance, making that route just as slow as your physicals. Fortunately, she cant hit too terribly hard, but this fight will still go on longer than the Kalinus fight. A good way to end this one quick is to concentrate on blocking Nayas attacks to build up your meter and enter a state of Heightened Awareness, then use your physical attacks (which now do more damage and are MUCH more accurate). A few lucky rounds will deplete Nayas HP fast, winning you the fight. If you get unlucky, just refill the gauge and go another round. Naya: Nnnhhh! *stumbles* You youre good. You might be worthy after all

*Hark goes to free his friends, but the pole theyre on sinks into the floor, preventing him from doing so* Voice: They will be kept safe you have more trials to complete. The next area is all about Harks relationship with Ophi. He is taunted by the fact that he couldnt stop Dynal from kidnapping her, and his mind is filled with horrible, nightmarish visions of her death. This is a platforming area where you need to use the jump command to traverse some tricky jumps to reach the next floor of the tower. Its somewhat difficult and annoying, but eventually you make it through and reach the next room. Nabu is holding Ophi, just like Dynal was holding her back in the fortress. Ophi: .!!!! Hark! *struggling against his grasp* Hark: OPHI! *runs toward her* Nabu: *seemingly slices Ophis throat, dropping her dead body to the ground* Hark: NO!!! Nabu: To become a member of the Thieves Circle, you must leave all your attachments behind. This girl was nothing but a distraction. Hark: *shaking in rage* You monster you sick monster!!! How could you?! Nabu: She made the choice to come here. You made the choice to join the Circle. Focus your rage use it against me strike me down! Hark: BASTARD! BOSS: Nabu (HP: 40,000) You automatically enter the fight in a state of Heightened Awareness, so hit Nabu with as many physical attacks as you can before your gauge discharges. Itll charge twice as quickly in this battle, so thats the key to winning this fight (Nabus 40,000 HP might seem like a lot for a one-on-one boss battle, but the Heightened Awareness Hark will be in for most of the fight makes it go down much faster). Nabus most dangerous attack is the Shadow Blade. Hell telegraph it, if undodged or undefended itll do around 800 damage, so be aware and keep Harks HP up. When Nabu goes down, Hark leaps on him, knife at the ready. Hark: *enraged* Im going to kill you for what you did to Ophi! Nabu: *confronts his death without fear* Hark: *raises his knife* Ophi: Hark, wait! Hark: !!! *turns to see that Ophi is sitting up, unharmed* Ophi? ButOphi: *wipes some red paint off her neck* Im fine. Hark: . Nabu: *still on the ground* The enemy will be willing to take everything from you and make you watch you must be willing to lose it all to stand up to them. Ophi: Hark, Im so sorry I know seeing that must have been terrifying please forgive me. Hark: .Ophi, Im just glad youre alive. *hugs her tightly, dropping his knife* Ophi: *holding Hark close* I spoke to your mother

Hark: Shes HERE? Nabu: She will give you your final trial. Ophi: She she didnt maybe I should let her tell you everything. Hark please dont hate her. Hark: *standing up* I wont. I cant. But I have to know. Ophi: Ill be right here waiting. I promise. Hark: *smiles* Thanks, Ophi. *turns and goes into the final room* Theres a save point here before you head in, you should probably use it. Hark will confront Rubidia, who expresses joy at seeing Hark again, and has a bit of a sad expression. Hark: Why did you leave us? Was it for power? Was it for money? Rubidia: *she drops her cloak, revealing a scarred, wounded body clad in a rather revealing bodysuit shes clearly been through many, many battles* I had to come back the Order of Thieves was facing extermination by the Gozan military. I was the only one strong enough to hold back their forces. Hark: *shaking, not knowing what to think on the one hand, his mother abandoned their family on the other hand, hundreds would have been killed had she not left* Rubidia: I wont ask for your forgiveness. I have no right to. I wanted to protect you and your father thats why I told my companions not to let you in here. I know why you fight. Hark: Were trying to save the world! Rubidia: I doubt it can be saved. Even if you stop Krynia, the two nations will continue to fight. The nation of Goza would have killed us all had I not offered myself as a prize to General Karst. Hark: Mom? Rubidia: *bowing her head* I wasnot proud of what I did. But I cant regret every part of it. Hark I want you to meet your brother. *A boy of about 13 steps out, clad in the Circles best thieves gear. He looks happy, but he also looks like a fairly hardened warrior.* Hark: *recoils in disbelief* Rubidia: Katan, this is your brother Hark. Hes come to join us in the Thieves Circle. Katan: *smiling* Mother told me about how brave you were Rubidia: Katan will not hold back. Hark: What are you saying I have to fight HIM? Rubidia: Not to the death, but I dont want you holding back either. If you can best Katan, you will be one of us. Katan: *takes out a knife* Lets play. BOSS: Katan (HP: 24,000) Katans attacks come in fast and furious, and he can quickly deplete Harks HP meter. You should cast Haste immediately upon beginning the fight, its necessary to keep Katan from getting significantly more turns than you. Your best bet here will be using Katans multiple attacks as an opportunity to build up your Awareness gauge, while using

your best attack magic. Keep your HP above 1,200, and unleash a powerful Full-Force Attack once your gauge builds all the way. Keep at it and youll win. Make sure you Steal the Kris Knife from Katan during the fight. Katan: *exhausted and somewhat injured, but still smiling* That that was fun! Hark: Are you all right? Rubidia: Hes strong but you are stronger. *heals you both with a spell* Harkmy son the trials were difficult, but I had to know you could really handle what you are about to undertake. I still dont want you trying to stop Krynia but I cannot and will not stop you. Hark: Mom Im going to make a better world, and once Im done you and Katan can come back to Sobura to live with me and dad. Rubidia: Ive been gone far too long for that Katan isnt even his anyway hewould not want to see him. Hark: Of course he would! Rubidia: *she smiles* Hark, you are so loving and kind it amazes me how strong youve grown. You are always welcome here. Hark: *smiling* Thank you. Rubidia gives Hark several Affinity Marks, including the marks for Blizzaga, Thundaga, Firaga, Aeroga, Quakega, Waterga, and Curaga, along with the Break Damage Limit mark and a +1000 HP mark (which will quite possibly give him more HP than anyone in the party, at least for now). Blitz, Melana, and Ophi all return and congratulate Hark, with Ophi once again apologizing to Hark for pretending to be killed. Hark forgives her, telling her that he has to prepare himself for anything, and that theyre all risking their lives by undertaking this quest. You can now skip Mt. Manifest and go directly down to the shore. You can explore the Gozan continent at this point, though some destinations are blocked off by the military. Rubidia has told the party that her scouts have informed her of some kind of disturbance in Cliffpeak, and of course the party wants to go there next to check on Gulrock and Lucilla. Though you can do some wandering around, youll want to make the trek to Cliffpeak to see if you can find two more of your friends. CliffpeakUpon arrival in Cliffpeak, the party immediately notices Gozan soldiers patrolling the streets of the city. Melana and Blitz want to thrash them, but Ophi says that if they start a fight in the middle of the city, innocent bystanders could get hurt and they need to find another way in. Its then that a cloaked figure approaches the party. He gestures for them to follow him, and takes you to some kind of nondescript house nearby. Melana isnt sure they can trust him, but Blitz thinks the person is trying to help and insists on following along. The party is taken to a small building, where a group of cloaked people approach them. Man: *removes his cloak* Im Ricard, of the Estave clan. I believe you know my sister Lucilla.

Blitz: Yeah, shes married to Gulrock, they traveled with us! Ophi: Do you know where they are? Ricard: Yes. Lucilla is currently with some of the elders, theyre negotiating some kind of deal with the Gozan military. It seems theyve come here looking for you and for her. Melana: They blame us for causing the current state of affairs Woman: Some of us do as well but we protect our own, and Lucilla insisted we help protect you. Weve been doing our best to keep the Gozan military out of the city, but General Karst is solidifying control over the entire nation. Melana: Karst survived? Damn we thought hed been in Centralia when all of this went down. Ricard: He and his regiment were outside the city on business. After the destruction of Centralia, Cliffpeak became the logical site for Gozas new capital but we want to keep the military out for the time being. Woman: The Estave clan has held power in Cliffpeak for many centuries. We can tolerate being a part of Goza, but we do not want its center of operations here. Hark: Im surprised Karst doesnt just invade and kick you guys out I mean, Im glad he hasnt, but Ricard: Karst doesnt want to start a massacre. If he marches into the city with his army, well dig in and make it useless to him as a capital. Thats why hes trying to negotiate peacefully with us. Melana: We need to know where Gulrock is. Ricard: Hes down in the quarry with his squad, theyre trying to hold off the monsters whove shown up in the quarry. Theyve been attacking the city if Gulrock cant hold them, well have to allow the military control of the city for purposes of protection. Blitz: Then weve gotta help Gulrock! The Estave clan gives cloaks to the party so they can walk around Cliffpeak without being accosted by the guards. Interestingly, the coliseum and the chocobo races have relocated here. The coliseum is still closed, but you can participate in chocobo racing (cant do too much more until you have the whole party back, though). There are new weapons and armor in the shops, upgrade everything you can, this is some of the best equipment money can buy in the game (only Elinals final shops are better, those will open up to you a bit later on). When youre ready, head down to the quarry. Like the SEEC Quarry, the Cliffpeak Quarry has greatly expanded as monsters have carved out a massive cave. Cliffpeak Quarry CavernThis dungeon is a bit of a puzzle, youll need to manipulate mining equipment to go forward into the deeper tunnels. The enemies are quite voracious, youll run into some giant moles, some powerful automatons, and a few giant bugs on your way to finding Gulrock. At a certain point in the cavern, there will be a tremendous earthquake that spills some rocks, separating the members of your party. Youll end up with just Blitz and will have to navigate some narrow tunnels to find Melana (try to avoid enemies until you find her, Blitz alone will be hard pressed to beat some of the nasties in these tunnels). After that, youll find Hark, and then after a bit more questing, youll find Ophi, she has

her leg stuck under a rock. As the party goes to save her, a massive beast bursts through a wall behind her. Ophi: AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!! Hark: No!!! *Just as the beast is ready to kill Ophi in a single swipe, it gets a huge spear through its back. The party looks to see Lucilla has leapt down from the ceiling to kill the beast.* Lucilla: You might want to be careful, its dangerous down here. Ophi: Lucilla! Blitz: Youre alive! And youre here! Melana: I thought you were with the elders? Lucilla: Psssh, those scruffy old fellows? They didnt even approve of me marrying Gulrock, Im not gonna stick around to watch them sell out our town. Melana: You mean theyre planning on giving Cliffpeak over to the military? Lucilla: I spend three whole days telling them why they shouldnt, but theyre not listening. I figured Id do something more important, like saving my husbands skin. Melana: Well, wed better hurry and find him Lucilla: I think I know where he is. This way. Lucilla rejoins the party at this point, leading you down a tunnel that has a save point along its length. Use it, then head into a massive open chamber where Gulrock and his men are doing battle with big hordes of beasts. Soldier: Damn, theres too many of them! Gulrock: What kind of attitude is that? There are too FEW of them! *laughing as he splits one open with an axe, only to be shot with lightning from above* !!! *falls to the ground* Lucilla: Gulrock! Gulrock: Babe! I got this! Lucilla: I dont think you do! Blitz: Cmon, well help you out! Gulrock: Mmmm, all right. *looks up at the thing that shot lightning at him, a massive bird* Hey birdy, you better get ready to die, because my wifes here and were gonna kick your ass! Blitz: Save some for us, old-timers! Youre given the option to outfit Gulrock and switch party members. BOSS: Garuda (60,000 HP) Garuda is a beast that attacks with a variety of formidable things, including Aeroga and a strong Lightning attack that does around 1200 or so damage to each party member. Waterga is the best spell to use against it, have Ophi use Waterga while Blitz and Gulrock pound the beast with physical attacks. It has a high evade stat, so you might instead want to go with an all-magic approach (with Melana, Lucilla, and Ophi). Lucilla can learn Lightning from Garuda, which is a Blue Magic Thunder elemental attack that is

actually a little bit stronger than Thundaga, so thats another reason to use her in the fight (and her Jump command will always hit). Its up to you to figure out how to approach the fight, just keep your HP up in case Garuda decides to use Lightning. After the fight, Garuda flies away. Gulrocks squad rejoices as the monsters recede back into the cave, beaten down by the fierce assault. Its then that Ricard approaches the party with a bit of bad news. It seems Cliffpeaks become the new capital of Goza and that the soldiers want to capture the party. Theyve agreed to spare Lucilla and Gulrock, but the others must come with them. Ricard says that the group could take this chance to escape, though it might endanger the people of Cliffpeak if they choose to do so. However, Blitz wants to return to town to face the Gozan soldiers, and the others agree. Youre automatically taken back outside to where the Gozan lieutenant is waiting. Lt. Feyes: So, youve agreed to be taken into custody? Blitz: Youre going to hear us out first. Do you think we intended for Krynia to get the Celestriad and take over the planet? Lt. Feyes: General Karst doesnt care what you intended. He wants your heads, and Im going to deliver them. Melana: *raises her sword* Lt. Feyes: Need I remind you that the lives of the townspeople are at stake? Lucilla: Wait a moment even though Cliffpeak is now the capital of Goza, certain Estave clan rules remain in effect here. They were adopted as part of the intended agreement, correct? Ricard: Yes, we insisted on keeping a few of our customs intact. Lt. Feyes: I dont see what that has to do with anything. Lucilla: Estave clan law prevents any arrests from being made against otherwise peaceful people during a wedding ceremony. Lt. Feyes: *smirking* Oh, and whose wedding? *Blitz and Melana look at each other, thinking they know where this is going and being somewhat unsure* Lucilla: Why, Gulrocks and mine, of course. Its our tenth anniversary, and were renewing our wedding vows. Gulrock: Oh right! Lucilla and I are going to renew our vows today. Itll be just like the day we first got married! Lt. Feyes: That doesnt count as a wedding! Ricard: Actually it does. The ceremony will be tonight at sundown! The scene switches to a building in Cliffpeak where Melana and Ophi are preparing Lucilla for the wedding, there are a few comedy relief scenes here where Lucilla tells Melana that she should get married next, something that makes Ophi giggle and Melana blush. Meanwhile, Blitz proposes having a bachelor party for Gulrock, of course Gulrock rebukes him. Eventually, youre given control of just Gulrock. Theres a save here and you should absolutely use it. The wedding ceremony begins. Just as Gulrock is kissing Lucilla, you hear a massive screech the Garuda has returned, and its mad! Youre once again given the option to outfit and select your party, and then the battle begins.

BOSS: Garuda (HP: 110,000) Yes, thats right, the Garuda has over 110,000 HP this battle will be long, but you can win using pretty much the exact same strategies from the first fight. The Garudas attacks are a bit stronger and its added a couple new attacks to its repertoire, though neither of them are anything to worry about. Ophis Waterga can do over 10,000 damage to the Garuda if you combo it properly, though if youve learned Lightning, dont have Lucille use it on the Garuda, as it will heal the creature. Just use your best attacks and keep your HP up, just like last time. When you win this fight, the Garuda goes down for good. After the fight, Lucilla and Gulrock celebrate by kissing over the creatures corpse, which Ophi finds somewhat disconcerting, while Melana just cheers louder. After the wedding, the bouquet is thrown, and Melana catches it (much to her surprise and Blitzs delight). Gulrock and Lucilla also gain the Break Damage Limit Affinity Marks at this time. Of course, the end of the wedding means the end of the laws protection Blitz, Ophi, Melana, and Hark are surrounded by Gozan troops. Lt. Feyes: That was very touching, but now were taking you in. Melana: Dammit I really want to fight them Ophi: I know, but we have to think of the people of Cliffpeak Lucilla: Feyes, dont do this! Were still trying to save the world! Lt. Feyes: Karst already has a plan to do that, he doesnt need your help and this will keep you all out of the way Just when it looks like the party will be arrested, a loud cry is heard from above, followed by a burst of magic which slams into the soldiers, scattering them. The party looks up its the airship, being piloted by the most surprising creatures Moogle Queen: Hop aboard, kupo! *lowers the ladder* Lt. Feyes: What in the hell?! Ophi: Mashi! All of you! Youre alive! Moogle Queen: No soldiers can keep us down, kupo! And when we heard you needed your ship repaired, we got right to Kastith to help out, kupo! *The party, including Gulrock and Lucilla, quickly climb aboard the airship. The Moogles then hop off, surrounding the Estave clan and staring down the soldiers.* Moogle Queen: Dont worry! They wont be hurting anyone in Cliffpeak while were here, kupo! You guys go and find the rest of your friends! Blitz: We will! Ophi: Thank you!!! *waving to the Moogles* Ricard: *to Feyes* The citys yours. You leave our citizens alone. Lt. Feyes: *shrugs* General Karst will find your friends, and even if he doesnt, it wont matter. The airship takes off into the sky, heading toward the Kunarian coast. Melana spots a massive ice storm enveloping the northern area of the continent.

Melana: What in the world is that? Ophi: Looks way too dangerous to fly into! Melana: Right well land just to the south of*A massive gust from the ice storm sweeps over the airship, coating the vessel in a thick layer of ice. Melana struggles to put it down, finally doing so just north of the Crystal Cave Mine.* The airships too heavy with ice to fly, and Blitz and the others are curious about that ice storm to the north, which seems to be emanating from Krynias castle. Until the storm ends, itll be too cold to get the airship back off the ground. Youre stuck on the northern half of Kunara for now. You can meet up with Cid back in the Crystal Cave Mine, where he updates the party on events in Elinal. Zukans taken over as leader of Kunara and has established a dictatorship, ruling the city from high up in the Academy of Magic. Artemis was spotted near the city but hasnt been seen since. You can use the cave as a sort of base of operations (theres a shop where you can buy accessories and items), though the next place youll want to head to is Sanathris hut. There will automatically be a scene after the party draws near. Sanathris HutSanathris hut is completely empty and covered in a thick layer of ice. The party goes inside looking for her, but shes completely missing. Blitz: Maybe she ended up somewhere else? Melana: Im not sure I sense residual energy auras and look. *she holds up some old papers* These were moved recently, they werent here the last time we came. Lucilla: *looking them over* Theyre old letters dated centuries ago. Sanathri wrote these but never sent them. Melana: To all who seek peace, Salvation is the answer. Salvation, wasnt that the name of that underground city from the legend? Hark: Right! Melana: Why would she have these out now? Blitz: Maybe someone else took them out. Maybe someone else who knows where she is. Melana: We wont find anything else here. Lets keep going north. Ophi: Into this storm? Melana: We dont have anywhere else to go. Were heading back up to Krynias castle, remember? After a bit more dialogue, leave Sanathris hut and keep heading north until you reach Lutamia. LutamiaWhat was once a coastal town is now in the middle of a large, iced-over area the towns buildings are half-buried in snow and totally coated in ice. When the party enters the town, everything is lifeless. Blitz peers into a home.

Blitz: Hello? Hey, is there anyone in there who Aaaaah! *recoils* Melana: Blitz, what is it? Blitz: Inside! People, they*Hark and Ophi look into the house Ophi sees it first. She screams loudly, backing away from the window and shaking her head. Hark sees it next.* Hark: Dear goddess no *Theres a family inside, their bodies frozen solid. What was once a thriving coastal town is now buried in snow and covered in ice, its people flash-frozen to death.* Melana: Do you think Krynia was somehow responsible for all of this? Blitz: Maybe when she went up into space, she activated something in her castle and whatever it is caused this huge storm and froze the town. Ophi: *shaking her head* All those people *shivering violently* How could anyone do that to them? Lucilla: Whatever caused this, well stop it. I promise. The channel that once separated the mainland from the island where Krynias castle stands is now frozen over, forming a land bridge. Youll enter the land bridge, which is its own area separate from the world map. Its an uneventful walk across three screens, though youll be accosted by ice-based enemies on the bridge (Firaga will roast them). When you reach the island where Krynias castle is, youll be back on the overworld. Take this opportunity to use a Tent and to save. Enter the castle. Sylvid CastleKrynias castle is coated in ice and eerily peaceful. No enemies will accost you, and as long as you dont go into the throne room, you can explore all the rooms you explored during previous trips. As you do so, party members will make various comments on Krynia, most still in disbelief that she betrayed their trust. Finally, enter the throne room. A scene will begin. *The party approaches the throne and sees a large block of ice coated to it, encasing the person sitting on the throne. Blitz takes a closer look. His eyes go wide.* Blitz: Thats! *Sanathri is seated on the throne, frozen solid. Her eyes are wide in terror.* Melana: Sanathri! *The group runs toward the throne, only to be blasted back by a powerful wave of frozen air. When they look at the throne again, they see a familiar figure standing in front of it. Its Krynia, or rather, a projection of Krynia, her fingernails light blue as freezing waves of energy slowly emanate from her.* Krynia: Why did you come back here? Ophi: Sanathri shes shes still alive! Krynia: Of course shes still alive. Shes immortal which proves quite useful for gathering information. Blitz: *horrified* You sick witch you tortured her!!

Krynia: It was a necessary evil. She has information I need. She is the last survivor of the ancient Vashyran civilization and of the city of Salvation. She alone has the key required to pass through its hallowed gates. Gulrock: The last survivor of Salvation? Melana: But Salvation fell more than 4,000 years ago, Sanathri is only 900 years old! Krynia: The people of that city held out longer than you think. Even after the war ended, survivors from the Great War and their descendants flocked to the ancient city. For many millennia, it was the last remaining city left in the world. Needless to say, the amount of Essence still gathered there is immense. Melana: So you tortured Sanathri to find a way into the city. Krynia: Im still torturing her. *The party looks back at the frozen throne beneath the ice, Sanathris eyes are moving ever so slightly. Blitz has had enough. He draws his sword and runs at Krynia, screaming with rage. Krynia leaps back and fires a massive wave of ice at Blitz, freezing him solid where he stands.* Krynia: Perhaps Sanathri can survive being frozen as she is, but you cant! Blitz: *glowing red with energy and anger, he shatters the ice and leaps at Krynia, stabbing her through the gut with his sword* Krynia: !!! Hark: All right, Blitz! Krynia: Youre forgetting something. *disappears and reappears behind the party* I am but a projection of Krynia Blitz: *turns to face her* We can still kick your ass! Krynia: *begins to glow* Even a fraction of my true power is more than enough for any of you! BOSS: Krynias Avatar (HP: 70,000) Though representing a mere fraction of Krynias power, this projection packs a nasty wallop with some rather brutal spells, including her most powerful, Southern Cross, an Ice-elemental full party attack that can do anywhere from 1000 to 3000 damage to the whole party, heavily dependent on magic defense. Ice-resistant/absorbing armor will make this fight a lot easier, though Krynias Avatar does know Holy and Flare, which can devastate individual party members, and which shell use a lot more if you start absorbing her attacks. Firaga spells are incredibly effective, Ophi and Melana attacking in tandem can quickly rack up the damage and end this fight in a hurry, and if Blitz has a Fire-elemental weapon, he can probably do more than 10,000 damage with a critical hit. Soon enough, Krynias Avatar will fade into memory. Krynia: You can have your friend back soon my family and I will have this entire world *her avatar disappears* Krynias avatar disappearing causes the ice encasing the castle to melt away and the storm to subside, though Sanathri is still frozen to Krynias throne. Its Ophi who casts a powerful spell to thaw Sanathri out, and she falls weakly into the partys arms. They help her to her feet, and she seems quite traumatized by what shes been through.

Sanathri: *shaking* I suppose thats the worst thing about being immortal Melana: Youre safe now. Well take you to get some rest, its all right. Sanathri: I suppose you all wish to know why Krynia did what she did to me. Ophi: She told us about Salvation, and about you being the key. Sanathri: Yes I was born in Salvation and I lived many, many years there. A flashback scene begins, showing Sanathris early life. By that time, Salvation was a dying city. Generations of people had lived and died there, but by the time 3,000 years had passed, most people there had given up on the world and had stopped having children. The world seemed to be dying entirely. Sanathri believed that if she could stop people from dying, she could stop the world from dying. She spent most of her early life trying to find the secret of immortality. Finally, she managed to discover the ingredients by careful meditation with those who had lived before her. With the knowledge of the ages in her grasp, she learned the secret and brewed up a potion. She drank the potion, and offered it to others in Salvation all refused, not wanting to live on in a world that was dying anyway. She eventually became the last left alive in Salvation, and went out into the world on her own. She discovered that the world had been slowly recovering for the last 3,000 years, and that civilization was taking small steps toward rebuilding what it had once been. Still lonely, Sanathri became a hermit, living out in the Kunarian wastelands. Sanathri: For the first time in more than eight centuries, I have a purpose. Being with all of you has given me a chance to finally do something to help save the world. If I could die, I would die happy. Blitz: So youre still coming with us? Even after everything Krynia did to you. Sanathri: Well, it helps that I have big strong men to protect me now! *hugs Blitz and Hark close* Hark: .!!!! Good to have you back, Sanathri Ophi: *giggles* Sanathri earns the Break Damage Limit Affinity Mark at this time. The party emerges from the castle, but realizes that with the land bridge gone and no boat, theyre stranded on the island. Melana: Well, some of us know how to swim But then, the airship hovers over the party. Cid is piloting it, and he brought it back to the island figuring the party would need a hand. However, hes got bad news. Artemis has been seen in Elinal, slaughtering guards. Hes apparently gone off the deep end and hes determined to find and kill Zukan. He needs the partys help immediately. Cid takes the party back to the Crystal Cavern Mine on the airship, where the party decides their next course of action they have to find Artemis before its too late. Make the necessary preparations and be sure you save, as when you board the airship youll be automatically taken to Elinal. Youre about to get total freedom back, but youve got one last party member to round up first.

ElinalA cutscene will play, showing the airships descent into the city. Melana: Last time we came here to stop a tyrant, things didnt end up so well Blitz: Were here to save a friend, too. Artemis has to be somewhere in this city *The airship sets down just outside the city with no incident. Unlike last time, where the party had to fight its way through the streets, the city seems eerily calm* Ophi: Where did all the soldiers go? Melana: Maybe Artemis killed them all. Blitz: He wouldnt kill that many people, would he? Youll automatically enter the city. You can leave and go outside to fight enemies, but if you go too far from the city, Blitz will insist that the party head back to find Artemis. You can access the shops in the city, the clerks wont recognize the party and will sell things to them. The weapons and armor shops are stocked with the best equipment money can buy (though better equipment can of course be found in later dungeons and in side quests). Make sure to outfit your party completely before heading on. Academy of MagicWhen you approach the Academy of Magic, there will be a cutscene. An explosion blasts out windows on the buildings second floor. When the party heads up, they see Artemis fighting off a great number of soldiers. Artemis: *shoots a bolt of lightning into one of them, striking them down he looks crazy, like a caged animal its clear hes come on a suicide mission, hes determined to destroy Zukan at all costs* Blitz: Artemis, stop all this! Right now! Artemis: It wont stop until every last person in this damned city is dead! *he begins to summon Leviathan as guards flee for their lives* Ophi: Artemis, no! Melana: Artemis, think of Alexis! What would she want? Artemis: The same thing I want, to see justice done! Blitz: Thats ENOUGH! *puts his sword to Artemis neck* I dont want to have to do this! Artemis: Youd really kill your own friend? Blitz: Anyone who would slaughter innocent people is no friend of mine! Artemis: There ARE no innocent people in this world! This entire nation stuck its head in the sand while experiments were performed on unwilling subjects! Thousands of people, tortured and murdered all to feed the power hungry dreams of a pair of maniacal subhuman fiends! And one of those fiends still rules this country! Melana: He wont were going to help you get rid of him but not like this. Blitz: If you summon that creature, Ill have no choice *his hand is shaking* Dont dont make me

Artemis: *still looks determined to summon Leviathan, when he hears a voice in his head* Alexia: Artemis!!! Artemis: Nnnnhhh! *shaking his head* I keep hearing her voice ever since I set foot in this city. Melana: What if shes trying to tell you not to do what youre about to do? Artemis: Dont put words in Alexias mouth! I know what shes trying to say! Melana: Do you? Artemis: ..*lets out a scream of frustration* Melana: !!! Blitz: *keeps his sword to Artemis* Artemis: You promise me that Zukan will die? Blitz: . Melana: Yes. We promise. We wont interfere with you killing him. Gulrock: Hes got it coming. Artemis: hes on the top floor. But its going to get rough here the magical energy being radiated from the top of the building is incredible. Melana: We can feel it too. Were ready. Youre given control of the party and you can head right up to the third floor. The enemies here are much more dangerous than the flans and spirits you fought on your first trip. The tower is filled with dangerous magical creatures and powerful warlocks. One of the creatures here is the Behemoth, a nasty beast with 30,000 HP and a bevy of dangerous attacks, including Meteor (the upgraded version of Comet) which can devastate your party. This dungeon is a ten-floor climb up to the top of the academy, with various diversions along the way that can earn your party some good treasures. On the sixth floor, there will be a scene. Alexia: Artemis! Artemis: *collapses to his knees* I can hear it again her voice like shes right here in the room with me! Melana: You mean Alexia? Artemis: Where is she? *looking for her* Alexia: Artemis. *she walks up to him* Ophi: hey.hey! I cant move! Gulrock: Neither can I! Melana: *drops her sword, her body totally stiff* Dammit whats happening?! Artemis: *turns to Alexia* It cant be I saw you die Alexia: Death cant stop what we have you wanted me back, and here I am. *he cant see his friends now, its like theyre in a different dimension* Artemis: No you you would have scars. Youre youre notAlexia: *kisses Artemis* Artemis: *the kiss makes him forget his concerns he flashes back to when the two of them were together, before he left and became a fugitive*

Alexia: You cant leave, I know what Zukan is doing to us is wrong, but we both swore an oath to this nation. Artemis: I cant stay I cant help him any longer, and neither can you. Dont you realize what he did to us? Infused our souls with the essences of dead apprentice mages? Alexia: I understand. But. Artemis: Dont tell me you actually enjoy this tainted power we have now. Alexia: Before the procedure, I was nothing, Artemis. I could barely use a level one fire spell but now, now I can summon Guardians I canArtemis: Those abilities came from the souls Zukan stole from the corpses of the dead! I can summon beings that I couldnt before but I know this power is vile Alexia: Its a power we can use to help others. Maybemaybe one day we can strike back at Zukan, but I cant do it without your help! Artemis: Then come with me, dont stay here and help him get stronger! Hes using you! The flashback continues, showing Alexia getting stronger and Zukan praising her abilities. He tells her that one day she will be Archmage of Kunara while at the same time, Artemis is standing over the dead bodies of soldiers sent to kill him, looking at his hands with horror and shame. Artemis: Goddess forgive me. There is a flashback of Alexia being tortured by Zukans scientists, looking over at another table to see her companion Connor breathing his last. A single tear rolls down her face. Alexia: Artemishelp us The scene switches back to the present, of Artemis holding the seemingly revived Alexia in her arms. Hes been able to see everything that happened to her. Artemis: Alexia, Im so sorry Alexia: Its all right, my love*energy is draining from him to her and from the helpless party members as well* Melana: Artemis, snap out of it! Shes got you in a spell! Ophi: Please! Its a trick! Its not real! Blitz: Fight it!!! Alexia: *smiling as she continues to hold Artemis* . *her grip loosens on his body* !!! Artemis: Alexia? Alexia: .Artemis!!! *steps back* Imnot. *seems to be struggling with herself, she lets out a shriek and falls to one knee* My dearest *smiling* .!!! Fight her! Shesshes got me.!!! Im.! *clamps her hand over her mouth* .!!!! *pulls her hand down* My soul is being used by Zukan! You have to find a way to destroy me! *Alexias grip on the party loosens. Theyre able to move now, but barely* Blitz: Cant you see? Alexias being controlled! Its an illusion! Artemis: *he can see through it now* Nodammit, Zukan, NO!

Alexia: *gathers whatever energy she can to suppress Alexias true will* Yes *smiling* Yes, Artemis, I am Alexia. I am the one you once loved, and I will be the one to end your pathetic life! Artemis: *clenches his fists* Alexia, I will set your soul free and then I will make Zukan pay! Alexia: You couldnt save me before and you wont do it now! Come, join me in hell! BOSS: Alexia (HP: 36,000) Oh, I hope you remembered to outfit Artemis, because this is going to be a hellacious one-on-one fight. Alexia has the ability to summon alost everything Artemis can, including Leviathan, which will inflict around 2000 damage or so, probably around half of Artemis current HP, which will be absolutely devastating. She also likes to use Reflect on herself, so beat her at her own game with some summons of your own, or you can elect to cast Reflect on yourself (or Carbunkle) and bounce spells off of Artemis and onto Alexia. If youve got Water-resistant armor, putting it on Artemis will blunt the blow from Leviathan, though it wont do a thing about Alexander. Shell will, however. This will be a fierce fight to be sure, but its more than winnable. Defeating Alexia in this battle liberates her soul from Zukan. She is fading quickly from this realm, but she lasts long enough to say one final goodbye to Artemis, her spirit giving him one final kiss as it fades away. Artemis gains the Break Damage Limit Affinity Mark after this fight, which means that all party members can now surpass the 9,999 damage limit, a definite boon for the HP-heavy bosses to come. Artemis: With Alexias soul at peace, a piece of my soul rests as well. Zukan must die, but I can forgive the others in this nation. Blitz: After we take care of Zukan, youll help us fight Krynia, right? Artemis: Were going after Krynia? I could not imagine a more fitting task. Blitz: Lets go get Zukan then. You can now explore the remainder of the tower. Floors 7-9 arent quite as complex as the previous three floors were, though the enemies are a bit tougher in this part of the tower, and Behemoths will show up more often. Finally, you reach the tenth floor, and a much-needed save. Save, use a tent, and get your best equipment ready. Zukan awaits, casually staring out a window as the party enters the Forbidden Atelier on the tenth floor. Artemis: This ends now, Zukan. Your control over Kunara is*The room shakes violently, bringing the entire party, including Artemis to their knees.* Zukan: Oh were you saying something? *his hands are glowing black* I knew you would find your way up here, you and your worthless friends thats why I prepared. I honestly thought Alexia would stop you, but thats why I always have a contingency plan *A black mist forms in the center of the room. The mist coalesces into a large creature with powerful wings, slowly flapping as the creature hovers above them.* Artemis: It cant be thats the King of the Guardians thats Bahamut!

Bahamut: *gives a mighty roar, pushing the party back* Zukan: Bahamut answers only to the strong. I captured him quite easily, and now he will annihilate you. Gulrock: You guys got any ideas for dealing with THAT? Artemis: All Guardians are powerful, but all can be beaten! Blitz: Even that thing? Artemis: Bahamut, you obey a sadistic, tyrannical coward of a master! Submit to me now or I will make you feel suffering unimaginable! Bahamut: *roars even louder* Ophi: I dont think it likes being threatened!! Artemis: NOW! Bow to me! Bahamut: I bow to only the strongest show me now that your strength exceeds his, or die where you stand! BOSS: Bahamut (HP: 88,000) Bahamut will immediately start the battle by counting down from 5, and seasoned Final Fantasy veterans should immediately know what that means. Cast Shellga to protect the party from the impending Mega Flare attack that will do 4000+ damage to an unprotected party (and around 2500 to everyone even with Shell). Before casting Mega Flare again, Bahamut attacks with a litany of powerful techniques, including a slicing wing attack to the whole party, a nasty swipe of his claw, an attack called Sonic Distortion that causes moderate party damage and confusion, the Flare spell (which will probably take out a party member), and a few other attacks. Between Megaflares, hit Bahamut with everything you have. Bahamut will counter Flare with Meteor, Holy with Piercing Graviga (75% of the partys maximum HP), and Ultima with an immediate Megaflare, but anything other than those is fair game. Leviathan works nicely (you have to use Artemis here). If you have Shellga on and full HP, and Ophi has Ultima, you might want to use it anyway if its consistently doing 15,000 damage or more, its worth having to heal up from the ensuing Megaflare. Take your time and make sure to keep Shellga up and youll soon beat Bahamut down. Upon defeating Bahamut, Artemis gains the ability to summon it in battle. Zukan: You defeated even the mighty Bahamut?! *begins to laugh* Artemis: If you wish to die laughing, so be it. Zukan: Do you realize that I also had to defeat Bahamut in order to summon him? I told you, Ive been quite busy have you noticed why so few Kunarian soldiers resisted your advance? Melana: .*her Essence crystals begin to light up and glow, and she hears dozens of voices in her head* Nnnhhh! Blitz: Melana! Ophi: *she gasps, hearing the screams and pleas of literally thousands of trapped souls* Artemis: how many of the people here did youZukan: Every student at the Academy. I kept a small contingent of guards to slow you down, but other than that, I consumed them all. Their powers, their memories, their very

souls are a part of me! *glows with incredible power* And once I add all of you to my collection, I will ascend to the heavens and bring down Krynia as well! Artemis: Youre insane! Youre absolutely insane! Blitz: I cant believe Im saying this, but you dont deserve to live! Zukan: I am the ONLY one who deserves to live! *strikes at the party with bursts of lightning* Melana: *trying to block his powers with her sword, but shes having lots of trouble* Hes hes stronger than Vignus! He might be stronger than Krynia! Zukan: *laughing maniacally* Blitz: *grabbing onto Melana to steady her as she holds back Zukans strikes* No hes not stronger than Krynia and hes not stronger than us! Well beat him! BOSS: Zukan (HP: 82,400) Zukan might not pack quite as many HP as Bahamut, but his magic defenses are much stronger, meaning that physical attacks (or very powerful magic attacks such as Bahamut or Ultima) are your best bet. Immediately cast Shellga upon the start of the fight, as Zukans magical attacks are relentless in their strength. Hell strike at the party with lightning bolts that do devastating damage and hell sometimes hit with four at once, good for 2000-4000 damage every time one of them hits. Hell also use an attack called Scions of Torment, where he calls forth some of the souls hes absorbed and sacrifices them to oblivion in order to deal a devastating magical attack to your party. He has the standard repertoire of powerful magic (Blizzaga, Aeroga, Firaga, Flare, etc.). Try to buff your party with Hastega in addition to Shellga to reduce the frequency of his attacks. Your best bet here is a party of Blitz, Melana, and Artemis (again, required to use him), though Blitz/Ophi/Artemis, Gulrock/Ophi/Artemis, or even Melana/Sanathri/Artemis (use Sanathris potions to buff the hell out of Melana and watch her strike with devastating Jumps of 20,000 or more while leaving her mostly immune to Zukans strikes, though this requires a number of hard-to-get items to make the necessary potions) is feasible. Ultimately, as always, any party will work in this fight, just remember to keep your buffs and your HP up. Zukan: *collapses, mortally wounded after the pummeling the party gave him* Do you really think you can save the world from her? *he laughs* Artemis: Thats none of your concern. Youre a dead man. Zukan: I suppose youre right *continues to laugh* ButIll enjoy watching the sufferingshe brings to this pathetic world. *Zukans body lies limp on the floor. Artemis bows his head.* Artemis: All of those fallen souls seduced by his lies Ophi: *takes Artemis hand* Artemis: ?! Ophi: Perhaps the souls he stole can be saved with your help. *she walks over to Zukan and kneels down on one side* My grandmother taught me a cleansing ritual that can heal corrupted souls Artemis: Wont it heal his as well?

Ophi: Zukans soul is too far gone but we can save all those he murdered before they are locked into prisons of Essence. *she begins to chant a spell as Artemis infuses power into her body, an ancient seal appears beneath Zukans corpse and we see thousands of beautiful white lights rise above him as his corrupted body withers and fades* Sanathri: I know of this ritual, it is what my friend Lanietta used to perform for all those who died in Salvation. Had we not done so, the rocks of the cave would have become toxic with corrupted Essence and the energy given off would have tainted us all. Melana: But isnt Salvation still rich with Essence? Sanathri: It is, but only the Essence formed by the natural decay of magical energy, not tainted with the corrupted hate of a human soul who has departed this world with bitterness in his heart. Ophi: The souls of those who died in Salvation, though tormented by the sadness of their existence, died with peace in their hearts because of this ritual. And now, those whose lives Zukan stole can go in peace as well. Artemis: Ophi everyone thank you. The party emerges from the Academy, only to be greeted by a cadre of mages. Oban: So it is you the ones who brought certain doom to this world and have killed two Archmages in as many weeks. Blitz: We just killed a tyrant who murdered thousands of people to feed his own powers! Oban: You killed the only hope we had of stopping Krynia. Melana: We are not going to argue with you, and if you get in our way, you will share in Zukans fate. Oban: We cannot fight you without Zukan, we are in no shape to fight anyone. We cant stop you from staying here in Elinal but know that the people of Kunara curse and condemn your name. Melana: You dont speak for all of them. You speak only for yourself. After a bit more dialogue, youre left to your own devices. Most of the people in Elinal are indeed hostile to the party, though a few pledge their support to you and there are of course people who lost friends, lovers, or family to Zukans tyrannical two-week reign of terror who thank the party for putting their dearly departed friends souls at peace. Leave the city and board the airship. The party barely has time to rejoice at being united, as there is something terrible on the horizon a huge fleet of Gozan warships is headed straight for Elinal. Headed by General Karst, who has spies in Goza and was waiting for Zukans death to begin the invasion, the fleet poses an imminent threat to the well-being of those in Elinal and in Kunara in general. After the cutscene, in which the party agrees that Karst must be stopped, youre given free reign once more. Yes, its one of those things where theres an imminent threat, but you have all the time in the world to address it. Enjoy it, there are some new side quests opened up. Artemis can get a new Guardian, Zeromus, by undertaking a short series of dialogues in various cities and finding a few treasures. Zeromus is a gravity elemental Guardian and is exceptionally powerful. With 160,000 HP and access to devastating spells and attacks, hes definitely tougher than anything youve faced thus far and you might want to wait until youve conquered the

next couple challenges before trying to face him. If youre up for a challenge, though, thats the toughest thing available. Of course, when you feel like its time to move on, head out to the Gozan fleet and confirm the dialogue option that appears. Youll automatically set off a cutscene and be launched into the next part of the story. The KarstfleetAfter a cutscene depicting Cid using the airships weaponry to keep the warships distracted while the party descends down onto the ship at the back of the fleet, youre given control of the party. Your goal here is to reach the flagship at the front and confront General Karst, in order to do that youll have to make it past several ships in the fleet. For some ships thats as simple as running to the front of the ship across the deck and leaping from one to another, for others youll have to go inside the ship for a bit. Enemy encounters will regularly take place while youre doing this, making traversing the fleet similar to exploring a medium-sized dungeon. The enemies here actually arent quite as tough as the ones fought at the Academy of Magic, theyll use mostly physical attacks and arent quite as fast. My recommended party would be Blitz, Melana, and either Ophi or Artemis, whose group magic attacks can easily take out entire enemy parties. On the very first ship, youll see a massive gun placement that the party has to take out. Captain: Damn, these fools again? *turns the cannon around to aim at the party* Melana: We have to hurry, if that thing fires well be in big trouble! BOSS: Gunnery (HP: 35,000), Side Cannon x2 (18,000 each), Fleet Captain (14,000), Fleet Elite x3 (3,000 each) The Fleet Elites are just normal enemies that are part of the ships enemy rotation. The Fleet Captain isnt too strong, he knows level two magic that shouldnt be much of a threat and wields a sidearm that can do around 300-500 to one party member. The Side Cannons, however, will quickly become a nuisance if you dont take them out. If Ophi knows Ultima, youll wipe out the Fleet Elites in one shot and probably the Captain and Side Cannons in two. The Gunnery wont attack very often but will count down from 3 and then unleash its main shot, which does around 1000-2000 to the whole party and will require healing afterward. Use your best group magic to take out the Gunnerys escorts, then focus all attacks on the Gunnery once its the last thing left. The destruction of the gunnery clears the way for the party to leap to the second ship. The second ship doesnt have much of consequence, just poke around for some treasures. Youll then be given the option of going to the left or right. If you go left, youll have to go inside both of the ships to get through them, though you wont have to fight a boss at the end. If you go right, youll only have to go inside the third ship, you can run right across the fourth ship, but theres a boss. There are also more treasures on the left path, though theres nothing that can be missed forever. As the party runs across and through the ships, cutscenes will occasionally interrupt the action, showing General Karsts fleet

getting closer and closer to the coast, the ships weapons blowing away the weak Kunarian resistance on the coast. Assuming you take the righthand path, youll be able to run right across the deck of the fourth ship you cross, only to come right up against a nasty-looking mechanical automaton with long, sharp blades on its arms. Captain: You wont get past the Vivisector! Gulrock: Vivisector? *looks nervous* Blitz: That thing doesnt look so tough! Lets shred it! BOSS: Vivisector (HP: 68,000) The Vivisectors blades can quickly carve up any party member that isnt ready for them (and has a low defense), so Protectga is recommended here. The Vivisectors most dangerous attack is probably Carve, itll leap on one of your party members and rather brutally slash them with its blades, this can do up to 6,000 or more damage to someone with low defense and no Protect spell cast on them. Thankfully, the Vivisector is vulnerable to magic, particularly Thundaga. If youve got Ophi or Melana, have them cast Thundaga and watch the five-figure loveliness. Just be careful not to let them get carved up. After defeating the Vivisector, the ships captain leaps overboard in a rather humorous scene. No matter which path you took, youll leap to the next ship of the line, which is another ship where you have to go inside, its not a very difficult path, however. The end of the path triggers a cutscene, where the party leaps onto the flagship (they cant get on deck, however, they barely reach a small door halfway up the back of the ship). As your party enters the flagship, Cid is able to disable the ships behind the flagship using Essence weaponry onboard your airship, knocking almost the entire fleet out of commission. Meanwhile, Karst boards his massive mech and uses its main weapon to wreak death and destruction upon Elinal as its remaining residents cower and hide. Clearly, the city doesnt have much time. Flagship ExaltiaThis ship is significantly more complex than the other ships youve traversed, though its still only as big as a small dungeon. Some decent treasure detours can be had here. The party will at one point emerge on the deck, only to be stopped by a group of Karsts elite bodyguards, along with Lt. Feyes, now promoted to commander. Feyes: Thats enough! I will not allow you to proceed further. Melana: This is insane! Youre attacking a defenseless city! Feyes: Thats the idea. We know full well the decimation of the citys wizard population following Zukans rule. Blitz: But why invade Elinal now, when Krynia is up there plotting who knows what? Feyes: With the assimilation of Kunaras resources, our weaponry will be powerful enough to mount an invasion of Krynias celestial palace.

Artemis: Zukan thought the exact same thing when he absorbed the souls of his fellow mages. None of you can defeat Krynia, and this war is destroying any chance you have of mounting a defense against her. Feyes: *he clearly looks somewhat unsure* Melana: Feyes, I once believed the same as you did, that Goza was right and Kunara was wrong after I found out what Gozan biological experimentation did to my village, I came to believe the opposite but then I then we all realized that the only thing thats wrong is this war itself. Feyes: And you all of you, you would have the world destroyed to protect it! You brought that Celestriad to that witch! You made all of this happen! All of us, we had family in Centralia! They all died because of you! *The soldiers all nod, looking determined to punish the party for what they believe is the partys fault.* Feyes: This isnt just about protecting Karst or waging this war. You people brought destruction to our capital! Melana: And what would Karst bring if you let this war continue? Feyes: So you dont deny causing the millions of deaths of the past few weeks? Blitz: She tricked us Krynia tricked us. We were fools to trust her but you all did the same! She visited Centralia, she walked among you! You were at the lecture she gave Feyes: *clenching his fists* Melana: Please let us pass through and stop Karst, or what he does to Kunara will be just as bad as what Krynias done to Goza. Feyes: I am sorry but even if I cannot blame you for what happened to Centralia I cannot as a Gozan soldier allow you to pass through here. *readies himself for a fight, along with the other soldiers* Melana: Then we are sorry as well. Blitz: *takes out his sword* BOSS: Feyes (HP: 51,000), Fleet Ultra Elite x5 (8,000 each) Wipe out the Fleet Ultra Elite before concentrating on Feyes, their quick physical attacks can quickly add up and become trouble for the party. Feyes default attack is a shot from the massive Essence Cannon hes hauling on his shoulder, which will do around 1,200 to a single party member. He can also fire a Charged Shot without warning that will do between 1,500 and 2,500 to everyone, so watch out for that. Once you take out Feyes help, he wont be nearly so much of a threat and you can attack him as you would any other boss, just remember to keep your HP up at a reasonable level to avoid too much worry from the Charged Shot. After being defeated. Feyes crumples to his knees. The bodyguards are alive, but injured. Feyes: *bowing his head* Just kill me Blitz: No. Youre helpless now. Feyes: My family I want to be back with them Melana: They wouldnt want you to be with them. They would want you to live.

*The party ignores Feyes and keeps walking. He seemingly slumps then pulls a knife off one of the unconscious soldiers and charges the party, going right for Melanas back. Blitz sees him just a split-second before he wouldve stabbed Melana, and does the only thing he can do he turns and stabs Feyes right through the heart, saving Melanas life but mortally wounding Feyes.* Feyes: *smiles* my dearestLenoraIm *slumps dead off of Blitzs blade* Blitz: !!! Ophi: *gasping, putting her hands to her mouth* Melana: Blitz he wouldve killed me if you hadntBlitz: I know *he grips the hilt of his sword tightly* Dammit Lucilla: The only way to stop all of this death is to stop the war. Come on we have to stop Karst from invading Kunara. After a bit more dialogue, youre given control of the party again. Youll have to go back inside the ship, but its not too far a ways back up to the deck. There will be a save point, and off to the side, a room where the party can sleep and recover HP/MP for free. Head back up to the deck and youll see General Karst, gathering up massive amount of energy into the arms of his mech. Karst: With this shot, the people of this cursed land wont know what hit them and the war will finally be over. *The party rushes toward Karst. A few bodyguards try to rush them but they are easily taken out and pushed aside. Karst turns to confront the party, his huge mech taking up most of the front of the ship.* Blitz: Give it up, Karst! Your fleets trashed, this invasion is finished! Karst: Is it now? As you can see, Gozan scientists have constructed this beautiful machine, a masterwork of ancient Essencecraft and modern craftsmanship a shot from its main cannon will be enough to devastate the city of Elinal, leaving Kunara decapitated and prostrate before me! Gulrock: All I see is an oversized hunk of scrap that Im in the mood to smash! Karst: Such brazen words, spoken like the peasants you truly are. Though I am disappointed in you, Gulrock. You couldve been a general in my army. Instead, youre the lowest traitor in Gozan history. And all for the sake of what? Peace? As long as our two nations exist, there will never be peace. Sanathri: That isnt true people from the ancient nations came together to form a beautiful city Karst: A city that failed and died. I know all about your Salvation. People who lived in a cave, harvesting dirt and huddling in fear, not knowing that the world was rebuilding itself above them. The ancients failed because they had primitive minds who could not comprehend the power they wielded and primitive hands that could not craft the machine you see before you. Hark: Wait! Dont you know anything about the world outside your own little bubble? Dont you know you have a son? When you took my mother as your companion, did you love her? Karst: *looks into Harks eyes and remembers* Ah Rubidia, queen of criminal filth. My boy, I have had many, many companions over the years. Its one of the perks of being

a man of war. I likely have dozens of sons and daughters spread across this planet. Perhaps some of them are in the city Im about to lay waste to. Hark: How could you be so callous? Melana: Hes not going to listen to reason he has to die. Karst: For you to survive, yes. *his mech glows with incredible power* Blitz: Everyone, dont back down! Remember all the people were trying to protect! *The party readies their weapons.* Karst: You cant even protect yourselves. BOSS: General Karst (48,400 HP) and Warmech (125,000 HP) This fight can be approached in two ways. As long as General Karst is alive, the Warmech will operate in a slowly-paced, controlled way. It can unleash its missiles for ten shots of around 500-700 HP each to various party members, it can attack with its fist for a moderately powerful physical attack, it can stomp one of the party members for a slightly more powerful physical attack, it can heal for 5,000 HP, and it can attack with its main cannon, which will countdown from 5 and then unleash a massive shot of energy on the party for anywhere from 2500-6000. Karst can also shoot one of your party members with his sidearm for decent physical damage, or toss a grenade down for a decent group attack. The pace of the fight will be rather slow and exacting, but the Warmech will telegraph its attacks and youll usually know whats coming. However, if you kill Karst before the Warmech is disabled, it will become slightly faster and much more chaotic in its attacks. It can even use its main cannon without counting down, meaning that youll need to absolutely be on the ball in terms of keeping your party healed. The fight, however, will go a lot faster as Warmechs defenses will be much lower and your attacks will do significantly more damage. So its up to you to decide whether you want a quick fight that will be a lot more hazardous, or a slower fight where it might be easier to see whats coming. If Karst is still alive once the Warmech is disabled, hell ineffectually try to work the controls while occasionally shooting wildly at the party, he might also drop three grenades in succession, so watch out for that as its quite dangerous if youre not fully healed. For the most part, though, once the Warmech is taken out, this fight is pretty much over. *As the party stands at the ready in front of the disabled machine, a badly-bloodied Karst slumps at the controls, still trying to unleash his powerful attack on Elinal.* Karst: Damned piece of junk! Blitz: I thought you said it was a finely crafted masterpiece of war? Or something like that, at least. Karst: Little bastard! *suddenly shoots at Blitz, only for Melana to deflect the bullet with a magical energy barrier* Melana: That is enough! Youre done, Karst, and so is your fleet! The invasion is over! Karst: *tightly gripping the mechs controls* Damn you... *Karst doesnt see a burst of magical energy coming from the shore of Kunara. Its from Oban, wielding a staff and casting a powerful spell that races out across the ocean to the flagship offshore. It smashes into Karst, blowing him up along with the top half of his Warmech. The party takes cover as pieces of the machine rain down on them.*

Oban: Mages of Kunara! Attack! Rend the barbarians from across the sea asunder! *The Kunarian mages unleash their most powerful spells, which slam into the flagship, quickly destroying large chunks of it. Blitz and the others look as if theyre going to be caught up in the destruction, only for the airship to swoop by and pick them up at the last moment. The flagship and the other ships in the fleet are shattered by magic as the soldiers on them scream and run for their lives.* Onboard the airship, Cid informs the party that the Crystal Cavern Mines being totally scoured of its Essence in preparation for a huge war. Though the Kunarians realize Krynia is still a threat, they refuse to take the attempted Gozan invasion lying down, and it seems that war is about to break out all over the world. Cids also noticed that the energy fluctuation anomalies around the world are increasing, with brownouts now occurring wherever there is Essence energy. Blitz realizes that if the war doesnt stop, all hope of defeating Krynia is totally lost. Artemis replies that there is no hope of defeating Krynia, that the Celestriad makes her all powerful. Others in the party agree, though Sanathri asks them if Krynia is all powerful, why was she trying to torture her for the key to Salvation? Blitz agrees with Sanathri, and so does Ophi, that there is still hope of defeating Krynia. Hark relents as well, and eventually, so does Melana. Melana: I promised Blitz that even if challenging Krynia is a suicide mission, Id still do it. We all have to protect our world, no matter what the cost. Sanathri: Perhaps the answer lies in Salvation over the years, the spirits of those who died in the Great War all gathered in that place, absorbing the knowledge and energy of the world. Blitz: So you think you can talk to those spirits? Sanathri: Im willing to try though I lived there until about a hundred years ago, and the spirits never spoke to me once. Ophi: Maybe you just didnt ask them to? *smiling* Sanathri: I was lonely enough to try. Artemis: Even if we cant talk to the ancients, if theres power down there, there might be enough to take on Krynia. Blitz: Id hate for us to take all the power of the ancient spirits for ourselves but if we had used the Celestriad for ourselves when we had the chance, we wouldnt be in this mess. its time for us to step up and be the protectors of the world, we cant fear that power, we have to embrace it! Melana: I just hope theres something worthwhile down there. Salvation lies at the bottom of the crater made by the destruction of that small island during Krynias ascent into space. It also happens to be the same place your submarine was blocked from by a barrier. When you got your airship back after defeating Zukan, you could actually land in that crater, its sides consisting of beautiful waterfalls surrounding a small plateau of land on which the entrance to Salvation was buried. You couldnt do anything here before, but now you can. However, you might want to take on a few more of the side quests that have opened up. You can now track down Lucifer and Phaedra, two of Artemis most powerful summons, though they wont be easy to find (Phaedras quest is probably harder than the final dungeon and boss). Make sure your

party is at least level 50 before descending into the Salvation crater (youll probably be 55 or more by now). After descending into the crater and approaching the raised area in the center, there will be a cutscene. Melana: So is the entrance to the city under here? Sanathri: Yes please, everyone, step back. *Sanathri kneels on the ground and begins to concentrate, causing the ground beneath her to part and revealing a large, bare, stone slab on which ancient letters are written.* Blitz: Is that the old alphabet? Melana: Yes, what exactly does it say? Sanathri: This gate to Salvation, forever sealed, symbolizes the dead hope of a people who have already fallen. Gulrock: Forever sealed? Who sealed it? Sanathri: I did, I did it to prevent it from being overrun by tomb robbers or treasure seekers. Butas you can see, I am a living key. *she closes her eyes again and the writing glows brightly, the words erased before the slab of stone slides open, revealing the descent into the city* Blitz: Down there? Sanathri: About a thousand feet down, to be exact. Fortunately, its a gradual slope. I can only hope we find what were looking for here Descend into the open cavern, which is somewhat long but not inhabited by enemies. Theres a save point here, then youll be able to make your way into the tunnels themselves. Salvation ThresholdBefore reaching the actual city, you have to cross through a maze of caves, complete with a few traps and puzzles designed to trip up potential invaders. There ARE monsters in here, rather difficult ones, and plenty of detours for treasure. If you get lost or turned around, you can ask Sanathri to guide you, similar to how Ophi guided the party through the Underbelly Sewers. As you explore the caves, Sanathri will occasionally reminisce on her early childhood, she remembers children playing in these caves (of course, back then there werent monsters) and will regret that they never got to see the sun as they were kept down here in the underground city for their whole lives. Hark: These tunnels might be a pretty good place to hide from Krynia Melana: Thats what were trying to prevent. We dont want anymore children growing up having to live in fear. Even if the people survive and have a measure of freedom down here in these tunnels as Krynia rules above, their lives will be bleak, full of sadness with no hope. Hark: I know its just if we cant stop her Blitz: We will. We have to.

Ophi: *holds Harks hand* Youre worried about your parents too, arent you? Hark: My mother and the Thieves Circle, they wont ever give up theyd probably be Krynias first targets Gulrock: Hey, we all got a lot to lose here if we cant stop her. Lucilla: Most of all, our lives. Toward the end of the tunnel complex, there will be a cutscene. Melana, tracing her hand along one of the tunnel walls, can suddenly see three children playing. They look real, but Melana knows theyre just images from the Essence, traces of the past. Melana: Am I the only one seeing them? Blitz: Seeing who? Melana: *takes Blitzs hand, and suddenly he can also see the children* Blitz: .!!! Who are they? Sanathri: I see them as well, but I never knew them they must have been from before I was born, probably thousands of years before. Melana notices that the girl looks familiar, and recognizes her as the girl who would become the sorceress found in the Sorceress Crypt back on Goza. Hark points out that thats impossible, because that sorceress died on the fields of the Southern Island and not in Salvation, she could never have been in Salvation. Youll also notice that the two boys playing along with the girl are the younger selves of the two male sorcerers from the opening cutscene, the lover of the sorceress and the young mans friend, whose ill-timed Ultima spell doomed everyone on the battlefield. As the party continues through the tunnels, youll begin to hear the voice of the sorceress, beckoning that the party not go any further (this will happen in real time, as the party is exploring, not in a separate cutscene). Finally, youll reach a great, stone door. Sanathri: I recognize this door this is the door to Salvation itself. Melana: *she reaches out to touch the door, but as she does so, a vision overwhelms her. She is suddenly standing by the door as if 4,000 years in the past. Surrounding her are the three figures from before, the sorceress and her two friends. Luna (Sorceress): You heard what the elders have told us. Its not safe out there Ban: But if we can find the Celestriad, and use its powers, well be strong enough to end the war! Kavil: I I think I agree with Luna. The worlds already doomed up there, down here we can start everything anew. Ban: But we know where the Celestriad is, and weve all been working on our magic. Luna, your powers are the strongest Ive ever seen you can protect us. Kavil: You cant put that burden on her! Luna: No Ban, its good that you trust me. I Im just worried for the both of you. I would gladly go up there and risk my life, but if it got either of you hurtBan: Luna, I trust you and you have to trust us. Kavil: Its not safe!! Ban: Are you coming with us, or not?

Melana recoils from the door. Melana: These voices, theyre theyre overwhelming. Blitz: I heard them too, Melana. I saw everything. 4,000 years ago, three brave people made the exact same decision we made. Luna: And every last one of them failed. *appears before the entire party* I see now I see what you are all trying to do, and I beg of you, turn back from this path. This burden cannot be carried by so few. Blitz: Weve already made our choice, just like you did. Luna: *she bows her head, her tears glistening as points of light as she disappears* After a bit more dialogue, the party opens the door to Salvation. SalvationThe city is an incredible complex, a massive underground cave with skyscraper-like buildings, some of them coated in crystal. Water pours down from the ceiling, running down through canals in the ground and out of the cave through small channels carved into the rock. The city still glistens from the light cast off by millions of Essence crystals embedded into the walls. Despite being left completely alone for many years, the city itself is almost completely intact, with very little sign of ruin. At the top of the tallest building is a shimmering light, reflecting its glory onto the Essence crystals. Several of the party members, including Melana and Blitz, are completely awed by the scene. Ophi shrieks in excitement and wants to go exploring. Artemis and Sanathri are much more casual. Sanathri: That light wasnt there when I left. Melana: Its beautiful, what could be causing it? I can sense incredible energy emanating from it Blitz: Then thats where we go. In order to reach the complex of buildings, you have to walk the city streets for a bit. The streets are laid out like the streets of a modern city, and of course theyre roamed by monsters. You can explore a few small single-story buildings for treasure. You can actually explore the city, including its tallest building, MUCH more thoroughly after this particular quest is finished, the sidequest involving True Salvation is ultimately the most difficult sidequest in the game (and possibly the series in general) and the billion-HP boss can be found via exploration on that quest line, but for now, youre basically scratching the surface of the city. The entrance to the main building is sealed off, youll need to activate security devices found in two adjacent, much smaller buildings to access it. It basically involves a brief mini-dungeon crawl and a puzzle associated with each device. To the left is where youll want to head first, complete the puzzle and try to activate the security device. Youll immediately be taken into a flashback sequence. *Ban and Luna are alone outside a Vashyran encampment. Kavil is sleeping nearby.*

Ban: Luna, are you really okay with all of this? We can go back to Salvation if you want Luna: Ban, I agreed to come out here with you because we both want to bring peace to the world. *smiling* Why do you ask? Ban: We had a pretty close call against that monster you looked pretty scared. Luna: It was about to stomp you flat! If Kavil hadnt cast that spell in time Ban: *looks over at Kavil, smiling* He couldnt stop complaining. Luna: *she smiles* Ban *takes his hand* I know you can protect me. But you have to look after yourself too. *As the two begin to kiss, the flashback changes to that fateful battle. Luna lets out a scream as she sees an innocent soldier vaporized by a powerful cannon blast. She tries to get up but a spray of bullets hits her across the leg.* Ban: !!! Luna! *tries to run to her, but sees Kavil charging a spell* What are you doing? You cant use Ultima here! Kavil: The Celestriad is in danger, take Luna and get out of here1 Ban: I cant leave you! *sees Luna screaming in pain* Kavil: I cant hold it back, you have to GO! The flashback ends. Bans restless spirit is now standing before the party. Ban: Youre here because you didnt listen to Luna. Melana: We saw her she tried to tell us not to come here. Ban: And you shouldve listened. This is your last chance. Blitz: Why are you trying to stop us? Dont you and Luna and all the other spirits here want the world to be safe? Were trying to protect it! Ban: You cant. All youre doing is causing Lunas spirit even more pain. Blitz: Were not trying to do any of that! Ban: Your mere presence in this place is causing her grief. I can hear her screams, cant you hear them as well? Melana: Were just trying toBan: Enough!!! BOSS: Ban (HP: 57,000) Ban attacks with a sword and some pretty formidable wind magic, including Cyclonic Vengeance, which has a 50-50 chance of reducing any one party member to just a few HP, if this hits your whole party youll obviously need to heal. However, aside from Cyclonic Vengeance (which is rare), this boss doesnt have too much to really worry about. Just hit him fast and hard with everything youve got and hell go down licketysplit. Ban: Nnnghhh! *recoils, fading into the dust* Luna forgive me I couldnt. *his spirit rises and disappears* Melana: We have to find Lunas spirit we have to make her realize that what were doing will prevent what happened to her world

Sanathri: Its a terrible thing, to have no hope to see the world dying for 4,000 years, to see that its rebirth has only accelerated another fall. Ive spent my entire life trying to see it differently, but so many people down here have given up on everything. Head into the right-side building next, complete the puzzle, and activate the security device. Youll again see another flashback. Kavil: *training with Ban, his magic is far stronger but Bans skill with a sword evens the fight and the two are thrown back from one another, knocked onto their backs* Luna: Oh! Are both of you all right? Ban: Yeah *smiling as he gets up* Kavil, I think youll probably beat me next time. Kavil: Im not sure. Ban: Your magics gotten way stronger than mine, and my sword skills cant really keep up with that. Luna: Kavils been studying some pretty powerful magic. Kavil: Ive been studying Ultima. I know its forbidden, but both nations have pretty much abandoned the rules of war. Ban: Its dangerous for someone without experience to use that spell, especially in close quarters. If it got out of controlKavil: Ill be careful. *The flashback changes.* Kavil: You have to GO! Ban: Luna! *tries to run to her, only for Kavil to let out a scream as the Ultima spell is cast, wiping out everything in sight* NO! Luna: *smiles one last time at Ban, she leaps up to embrace him as the spell destroys them both* Kavil: *comes to on an empty battlefield, surrounded by nothing but discarded weapons and glimmering energy* Whatwhere am. *sees the Celestriad across the field* !!! *looking around* Ban? Luna? *he tries to find them but theyve been killed by the spell* NO! *he limps to the Celestriad, grabbing it with both hands* Bring them back! BRING THEM BACK! Please!!!! *The party can now see Kavils spirit standing atop the dais on which the security device is perched. He appears scarred, his hair now long and disheveled.* Melana: It.it was youyou were the hero who seized the Celestriads power and attempted to unite the nations. Kavil: Hero? no. I was not worthy of that burden. When I laid hands on the Celestriad, I was offered a choice. *The flashback continues.* Voice: Kavil Kalidus, your mind is full of torment and pain. Kavil: I.I murdered my best friends I cannot bear this power, it will lead to the destruction of the world. Voice: The future is not set in stone. Choose.

Kavil: Choose what? Voice: Three paths lay before you. You may bear this great power and do with it as you see fit. You may walk away now, forgetting everything you have seen. Or you may give your life so that one who has recently died may live and take up this burden. Make your decision, while the souls of the recently departed still dwell on this plane. Kavil: .!!! *The flashback ends.* Kavil: Luna was the puresthearted, strongest sorceress I knew. She didnt deserve to die I made the choice in a second. Blitz: And she couldnt bear the power? Kavil: I dont know why she failed but she doesnt deserve this! Ever since you descended on her crypt, her soul has been in torment shes been coming here, I can sense her every single day, reliving everything that happened to her! Blitz: Wewe cant leave, we have to protect theKavil: If she couldnt do it, what makes you think you can? What gives you the right to call yourselves heroes? Do you know how many people died before you? Do you know what happens to the soul of a person who dies in false hope? Melana: tell us. Kavil: Thousands of people have tried to do what youve done! Even now, people start on the same path as you, and they all die! *Nightmarish visions of the fates of would-be heroes are displayed above the partys heads. Ophi clings tightly to Hark.* Kavil: You cant save the world and I wont let you hurt Luna anymore! I used to hate my power but theres still one good purpose for it and thats using it to destroy all of you! BOSS: Kavil (HP: 52,100) Kavil isnt quite as robust as Ban in terms of HP, but his magic spells are lethal and yes, he knows Ultima. Fortunately, he wont use it until he dies, but whatever you do, dont kill him until youve got enough buffs on the party to survive the spell. Itll do a minimum of 3,000 damage to a completely buffed party, an unprotected party will take 5,000 damage each under the best of circumstances. Now, at around level 55, with Affinity Grid development, your party should be hovering around the 6,000+ HP mark but not everyone will have that much HP, and not everyone will have the Magic Defense necessary to survive Ultima (itll almost certainly kill Gulrock dead unless youve got him heavily overleveled). In the meantime, Kavil will bombard the party with Flare, Meteor, high-level elemental spells Reflect is your best friend, though it wont block Meteor and he can cast Reflect on himself before bouncing the spells onto you. The fight should go fairly quickly, but BE READY FOR ULTIMA. Fortunately, if you screw up and die, there is a save point just outside the room and you can always skip the cutscenes that take place beforehand. Kavil: *shaking his head* Luna Im sorry perhaps I shouldve taken up the burden after all *he fades away* Melana: he had to make the same choice we did.

Blitz: He gave the Celestriad to a kindhearted soul. We gave it to a monster. Melana: And both were bad choices. Blitz: I just I just want to know how we can put all of their souls at rest. Ophi: Maybe if we defeat Krynia? Blitz: Right. Lets hurry on. Head up into the main building now. Its a massive skyscraper with many floors, though you only get to explore two before reaching the main elevator that will take you up to the top. There are a couple of puzzles to open access to the elevator, but nothing more difficult than what you endured in the adjacent buildings. Before you can board the elevator, theres one final flashback. Luna is shown with the Celestriad, kneeling at Ban and Kavils graves. Its clear that shes deeply in mourning, though the Celestriad doesnt give her the same chance to bring them back as it gave to Kavil. Luna takes the Celestriad and vows to bring the world peace in their memory, though the next scene shows her facing down both armies, using the Celestriads power to hold back their assaults. Luna: LISTEN TO ME! This has to stop it has to stop right now! *The leaders of both sides are shouting across the battlefield at Luna, telling her to get out of their way. She looks as if shes about to make an attack on both sides armies, but cant bring herself to use the Celestriads power in such a way. Shes consumed with sadness, fear, and anger, and the conflict in her mind causes her to lose her focus. The Celestriad shatters in her hands, killing her instantly and sending a wave of energy across the battlefield that renders each and every soldier standing on it unconscious. They all wake up at the same time and see Luna lying dead in the center of the battlefield. For the briefest of minutes, the hostilities stop. Two young soldiers, one from each side, kneel at her body. A shot rings out, its impossible to tell from which side, but it starts the battle anew. The Gozan soldier, in the chaos, is able to carry Lunas body to safety.* Soldier: *talking to a battle chaplain* This woman died a hero please, make sure shes kept safe from all of this. *As the chaplain and some priests carry Luna away, her spirit cries tears of light.* The party approaches the lift, only for Luna to appear before them. A cutscene begins, where the party explains that they know everything that happened and that they arent here to cause her any pain. Luna bows her head, and apologizes for the actions of her friends spirits. Luna: Ban and Kavil loved me in different ways. They loved me so deeply that our souls are eternally connected they can sense every bit of my pain. Please understand, what I have said to you, I have wanted to say to everyone whos tried to embark on the path that you have. The fact that you descended into my tomb and awoke me from my slumber only served to allow me to speak to you personally and sensing your energy so close only makes my connection to you stronger. That is why what you have all gone through is affecting me so deeply. Blitz: We cant stop. Melana: We wont stop.

Luna: *trying not to weep* Kavil once tried to tell me that we should let the whole world die, so that no one ever had to suffer. I made him swear never to think such a thought again. He wasnt trying to kill you to stop you from saving the world, he was trying to kill you in such a way that you wouldnt suffer as I have seen so many others suffer. Artemis: Alexia Hark: And Sanathri Sanathri: *shaking* You dont think we all knew what might happen to us if we started this journey? Didnt you know? Luna: When I held the Celestriad, and it shattered in my hand, I saw every death that had ever happened before mine. I felt every second of the pain they suffered. I lived their deaths for thousands and thousands of years in a single instant, and in that moment I realized that it could happen to anyone else who ever tried to do what my friends and I did. For many years, I was filled with hatred for this world it took you releasing me from that tomb to realize that my hatred was misguided. And then I came to sense your suffering. Blitzs heartbreak at the deaths of his family. Melanas guilt as she felt conflicted loyalty. Harks fear as he confronted the world outside what he knew. Ophis terror as she lay captive in the enemys hands. Gulrocks regret at failing his own men. Lucillas sorrow as she believed her friends had perished. Artemis rage at the wickedness present in his own nation. Sanathris pain as her body was brought to its limits. I felt every second of it and I started to invision your deaths. I still believe in my heart that you will never defeat Krynia. Blitz: You wont even let us try! Luna: Did I ever say that? every soul who has died in this war has gathered atop this tower. Their souls have joined with the essence of the ancient ones to form a universe of light. I do not know what you will find there, but I know that it all pales in comparison to the power of the Celestriad. Blitz: And why is that? Luna: Because the Celestriad contains the essences of many worlds. It fell to Earth after being propelled through the stars by an event so powerful it tore three star systems asunder and compressed the souls of their peoples into an object small enough to be held in ones hands. The power of one world can never compare to the power of many, just as the power of one person, or even several, can never compare to the power of nations. Melana: Luna you stopped them. For but a few moments, they united to mourn you. Luna: And then they all destroyed each other as if it never happened. You will never succeed in bringing an end to this war. And if Krynia does, she will bring with it a reign of suffering that will last for many, many millennia, leaving this world a barren husk where the last few people live out their lives in pure agony. Blitz: just SHUT UP!!! *The party gasps as Blitz confronts Luna.* Blitz: Ive had enough of people like you, telling me that I cant help anyone! Your two friends tried to get in my way because they thought wed all die, but we stomped them both, just like were gonna stomp Krynia! Yeaheven when I came here I wasnt sure of myself, none of us were, but after hearing all of your crap, Im sick of doubting myself, and Im sick of anyone else doubting us too! Do you think my parents would want me thinking the same way you do? Do you think Melanas parents would want the same? Or Harks parents, or Ophis grandmother? Artemis, do you think Alexia would want you

feeling this way, thinking you cant help anyone? Dammit! I dont know what its gonna take to beat Krynia, itll probably take a miracle, but until I breathe my last breath, Im never, EVER gonna stop fighting! You can take your prophecies and your visions and shove them up your ass! I WILL NOT GIVE UP! I WILL NOT LOSE! And if you try to stop me like your two friends did, Ill end your suffering right now! *points his sword at Lunas face* Melana: *stunned by what Blitz has just said, but she too feels courage welling up inside her* Everything weve gone through, everything weve done has just served to make all of us stronger. Every monster weve defeated, every evil person weve stopped, were one step closer to bringing peace to this world. When we started, I never imagined that our journey would become something like this, but all of us, every last one of us, no matter who we are or what weve been through, is ready to fight and die for peace. I dont care if youve imagined our deaths in a million different ways, none of it is true. Its just a shame that the one who came the closest to accomplishing what were about to accomplish has forgotten everything shes learned along her own journey. Luna: Your words are inspiring, but they bring me no comfort. Whatever else lies in your path, know that your lives are short and your ends will be painful. I will obstruct you no further. *she disappears and ascends into the light above, her tears briefly raining down on the party in the form of light streaks* Gulrock: Hey, I wanted to tell her off too! Lucille: Yes, I had a few choice words for her myself. Blitz: You can do us one better by helping to put her spirit at peace. Its obvious that we cant tell her what were going to do, we have to show her. I dont know whats up here, but whatever it is, its got to help. And if it doesnt, well just beat Krynia on our own. Ascend up the elevator to the top floor. Theres a little bit of a ways to go until you reach your goal, a shimmering white gate at the end of a long hallway. No monsters inhabit this floor (at least in the main quest), theres a save near the gate that you should use, use a Tent as well. Make sure your party is outfitted for a tough fight, if you need to level, head back down to the second floor. The party is transported to a large space of light, with glimmering colors on the walls. The room is thick with energy and the accumulated weight of millions of souls. The lights seem to be coalescing into a single point at the center of the room. Blitz: Melana, are you hearing voices here? Melana: I cant pick them out anymore, its just noise its almost overwhelming *she clutches her head* *The colors on the walls of the space take the form of images, dozens at once, countless deaths played out on the screen. The party can recognize some of them the destruction of Gale, the deaths in Centralia... and even now, the party can see a battle taking place. Kunarian mages are attacking Gozas eastern border, clashing with soldiers there.* Blitz: Dammit, the wars getting worse and worse out there *The light glows, and a voice begins to emanate from it. The voice is distorted, taking on several forms in succession, its tone shifting every few seconds, ebbing and flowing and echoing, the images shift with its words.*

Voice: So it is you who have come here to stop this fighting that knows no end. Since time immemorial, people have been killing each other. Blitz: Were here to stop it its the only way to stop Krynia. Voice: I have already learned of the turmoil drowning your world. Melana: Dont try to tell us we cant stop it, were already determined to try. Voice: And do you even know what it is that youre looking for? Blitz: We thought we thought there would be Essence here. We were hoping to borrow its power to use in our fight. Ophi: If it will bring any of you any trouble, we wont use it we cant ask you to sacrifice yourselves for our fight. Voice: The Essence embedded in the walls of this city now anchors this planet. If you were to take its power, the world itself would come apart. The being explains how the Great War threatened to destroy the very planet itself by the time it had ended, and only the Essence sequestered in the city of Salvation kept the world intact and allowed it to prosper once more. Voice: Those who built this city may not have preserved their civilization, but they made possible future civilizations to take root. The problem of warfare, of course, still remained. Melana: Is it this worlds destiny to wage war on itself? Voice: It is humanitys choice. It has always been humanitys choice. The ancients were not the first civilizations to destroy one another, and it seems they will not be the last. The cycle of death has repeated itself many times over the history of this planet. Every civilization has its would-be heroes. Krynia, it seems, is a unique mistake. Before the Vashryans and the Exaltians even rose to power, the Celestriad fell to Earth. The wise ones who formed the last remnants of the nations who fell before had entrusted its power to future generations, hoping they would see fit to use it to bring peace. The one named Luna, with who we have communed, was not strong enough to wield its power. Blitz: But Krynia is. Voice: And she will rule this world indefinitely, unless she is stopped. *Among the images reflected on the walls, the party can see Krynias star in the skies above everything. As they look at it, the star lets out a bright glow, and all over the world, every Essence-powered light completely dims. The lights flicker for a few moments, then come back, significantly dimmer than before. The party can see this from inside the otherdimensional sphere theyre in.* Melana: Krynia is draining the very Essence from the world Voice: The Celestriads powers have been drained over many years. Its contribution to the worlds Essence supply has given civilization the gift of magical technology that civilizations before the Vashyrians and Exaltians did not have. Those two civilizations destroyed one another much faster than others before them. The Gozans and Kunarians are doing so at an even more rapid pace. Artemis: You clearly have the power to do something about all of this. Voice: We could have ended the war at any time. Hark: Why didnt you? Voice: Many among us wished to cease the war, but we all came to an agreement that has

bound us for millennia, that we would not interfere in the matters of this planet. Our chance to change the world has come and gone. Now our job is to observe, for better or for worse. If humanitys failures lead to its ultimate destruction, there is both comfort and sorrow. Comfort in that the cycle has ended, and sorrow in the fact that there could have been another way. Artemis: You knew all of this would happen, and you did nothing to stop it?! Melana: If the ancient spirits had forced peace on humanity, they would be no better than Krynia. Blitz: Thats right people have to choose peace in their hearts as well as in their actions. Ophi: An oppressed peaceful people are no better off than a free warring people. Artemis: couldnt you have at least stopped Alexia fromfrom Voice: We have communed with her. She is at peace. She wishes for you to be at peace as well. Blitz: Is there anything you can do to help us? Voice: Perhaps. But before we can do anything, we must know if it will even be worth our time. You say you are strong. You say you can stop Krynia, who wields the powers of the stars themselves. Prove your worth! *The light in the center of the room takes the form of a massive creature, glowing with gathered energy.* Hark: I figured it would come to this Blitz: Yeah, but were not afraid of anything! Were not about to lose now! BOSS: Cor Cordis (HP: 144,441) Cor Cordis starts the fight with a powerful Shattering Light attack, capable of doing around 1,500 damage to the entire party, as well as causing Blind. It will then shift to one of four different forms when it appears as a minotaur-like creature, its an all-physical form with high defense and a number of powerful attacks. When it appears as a kind of crystalline beast, thats its magical form, capable of a number of powerful spells including Flare, Scourge, and Meteor. When it appears as an insectoid monster, it attacks wildly and chaotically with an unpredictable pattern, it can also cause a variety of status effects. Finally, when it changes into a giant crystal with rotating crystals surrounding it, its about to use its most powerful attack, Cry of the Ancients, which can cause massive damage to the entire party (4,000+). It can also shift back into its default form and use Shattering Light, along with Staggering Breath (1,000+ damage and slow), a standard physical attack, and a few spells. It also changes elemental weaknesses. When its red, its weak to fire and absorbs everything else (except non-elemental spells). When its blue, its weak to water and absorbs everything else. Light blue, weak to ice, yellow, weak to thunder, brown, weak to Quake, Green, weak to Aero, and White, weak to Holy. You can save yourself some confusion by just always using Flare or Ultima, or you can concentrate on its weaknesses, its up to you. Using Lucifer when its weak to fire will pretty much guarantee you 99,999 damage (or maybe even a one-hit kill if you happen to have the Magnium, one of Artemis two No Damage Limit weapons, though if you have that AND Lucifer you dont need either to win this fight, youre overleveled for it already). Sanathris Cessation Potion can freeze this boss state entirely, keeping it in its

default form with the same weakness for a while will greatly increase your chances to deal lots of damage in a hurry. There are plenty of things that work in this fight, just remember to keep your HP up, as always, and hunker down when you see that crystal form. Defeating the boss causes the light to take its original shape again. Voice: Clearly you have both the strength and the will to succeed at your task however, it will be monumentally difficult. Blitz: If Krynia is still draining the worlds power, the Celestriad isnt fully charged which means that shes not invincible. We can beat her! Voice: Even in its slightly weakened state, the Celestriads power is near absolute. You almost certainly lack the strength to overcome Krynia and you dont even have a way to reach her. Blitz: We know Melana: If we could only get the two nations to stop fighting, even for a few moments Blitz: .can youcan you convey a message to the whole world? I know you dont want to interfere, but all you have to do is give us a way, and well do the rest. Voice: I can spread your image across the skies for all to see. It is up to you to know what to say. I cannot open the gateway for long Blitz: We wont need a long time, just make sure everyone, wherever they are, can see us. *All over the world, there is fighting between Kunarian and Gozan forces. In cities and towns, people hunker down, hoping the fighting doesnt come to the civilian areas next. Some look up to Krynias star in fear. It glows again, causing all the worlds lights to again fade and dim.* Blitz: Its now or never *The skies suddenly transform into a bright, colorful array of light, like those seen inside the sphere. The people of the world are transfixed by them. The array of light coalesces into images images of civilizations ravaged by war and destruction, just as the world is currently undergoing. Amongst the images of war and death are images of Blitz and the others along their journey. Blitzs voice rains down from the heavens.* Blitz: We have descended to the bottom of the world, trying to find the strength to wage the war on Krynia that you refuse to fight. We know these images youre seeing are terrifying, but it is the future this world faces if you continue on your current path. Sanathri: Ive seen with my own eyes the destruction of one civilization, and Ive been spending my whole life, nearly a millennium, trying to prevent it from occurring again. Gulrock: Ive had to go against my own country to try and bring an end to this war. I know my own squad is fighting hard to protect the people of Cliffside, and I know they seee why weve done what weve done. Lucilla: I love the people of Goza, and the people of Kunara. We tried to find the Celestriad to stop this terrible war. Many people have died helping us along the way. Artemis: Weve all grown on this journey, but weve made many enemies as well. We know that many of you despise us for what weve done and that our choices put that terrible star of destruction in the sky. Ophi: We would give our lives to protect the people of this world every single one of them, even our worst enemies.

Hark: We know there are people up there who still support us and we know theyve been made to suffer for it. No one should have to be afraid to do the right thing. Melana: We cant force any of you to agree with us. We cant ask any of you who have lost friends, families, or homes to forgive us. We were foolish to give the Celestriad to Krynia all we are asking is that you allow us to undo the mistake we made. Right now, Krynia is planning to resurrect her family and rule the entire world in her tyrannical grip. She is sucking the very energy of the earth, the energy that has made it possible for us to have light in our homes without depending on the sun, the energy that has provided food for every man, woman, and child and, regrettably, the energy that has made it possible to wage war on such a hideous scale. We can stop Krynia, before she becomes too powerful to stop. Please all of us are askingno we are begging for the help of both nations. Do what you will with us once all of this is over, but please give us whatever you can to get us to that star and bring it down. *The lights fade from the sky as the people of Goza and Kunara continue to look up. Back inside the sphere, the energy of the spirits has been reduced to such a level that they can no longer sustain the worldwide message. All Blitz and the others can do now is hope that it got through.* Voice: We have done what we can. Now do what you must. Blitz and the others begin to leave, when suddenly, Sanathri falls to her knees. Hark: Sanathri? Melana: *runs over to her* Sanathri: *clutching her heart* Stepstep back.!!! *she steps back, away from the party, her entire body beginning to glow* *Sanathri rises into the air, and takes on the form of Krynia, hovering over the rest of the party.* Krynia: So this is where youre keeping all the precious Essence from me Artemis: No Gulrock: Dammit, what did you do to Sanathri? Krynia: I planted a seed in her heart, triggering it to sprout when the time was right. Melana: If you think you can take the Essence from this place! Krynia: *extends her arms, shooting crystal tendrils into dozens of points along the sides of the sphere* Lucilla: *charges at her along with Gulrock and Blitz* Krynia: *blasts them all back with an energy wave* It will only take a moment *As Krynia is draining the Essence of Salvation, images of her and her familys lives play out on the walls surrounding them Melana fixates on one in particular, of a young Krynia, about nine years old, being held by her mother.* Queen Elisthra: My dearest child, you share in the destiny of your family. Krynia: And what is our destiny, mommy? Queen Elisthra: Our family is destined to rule this planet. We are superior to all others those ungrateful Kunarian fools might have exiled us, but one day you will rise to reclaim the throne of the world. *Melana looks around to the other screens all throughout history, the Sylvid rulers have been told the same thing. Controlling the world and its people is their birthright. The

belief justified 700 years of brutal oppression, horrific crimes against humanity crimes Krynia believed to be justified every second of her life.* Artemis: They were right the Kunarians. They were right to slaughter that whole cursed family. Krynia: Were they now? Artemis: All your family has ever done is oppress and butcher people! Youre no better than someone like Zukan or Vignus! Melana: Artemis, stop it! Krynia: No hes right. It is our birthright to rule over all and kill anyone who tries to stop us, because we are the strongest and we were born to control the weak. The people of this planet kill each other because they are weak, and they desperately gather what little power they have any way they can. But its all for naught, because I have more power than all of them put together! And all of you as well! *she begins to radiate energy, bringing the party to their knees* And I will prove it by killing you all right here and right now with the power Ive just obtained! Blitz: Krynia! Youre wrong about people people dont fight because theyre weak, they fight because theyre scared scared of losing what they have, scared of people who are different than them but if all of us realized that were all in this together, that were all sharing the same world, the same resources, then none of us would ever have to fight! Krynia: Share? All there is is what I choose to give these people, these miserable vermin they will not even have the energy to wage war! *she prepares to strike Blitz down* And for daring to stand against me, I will kill you first!*lunges at Blitz, only for Melana to run forward and stab her right in the heart* !!!! *Krynias essence immediately fades, disappearing from the room. Melanas sword is now through Sanathris heart. Sanathri hangs lifeless on the blade.* Blitz: *covering himself up to shield from Krynias attack, only to notice that Krynias gone* .? Melana: *her mouth is wide open in shock as she realizes shes just stabbed Sanathri* . *pulls out her sword, Sanathri crumples to the ground* Hark: No!! Ophi: Oh my gosh! *The others quickly run to Sanathris side as Melana drops her sword and falls to one knee. Blitz rushes to comfort her.* Melana: *tears stream down her face* Sanathriwhat have I.? Blitz: Melana. Krynia was about to kill us all you did what you had toSanathri: Owww. *she clutches her chest* Someone use a healing spell, it really isnt comfortable to live without a beating heart *coughing* Ophi: !!!! *quickly casts a healing spell on Sanathri* Blitz: Melana Sanathris immortal, remember? Sanathri: Yes, I thought that would be impossible to forget by now. *smiling at Melana* Thanks for taking care of that horrible seed, I hope she didnt put any more in me! *laughing* Melana: *smiling, still with tears streaming down her face* Sanathri *The party regroups, looking around at the dimmed sphere.* Melana: How much Essence did Krynia manage to get?

Voice: *much weaker now* The vast majority of the Essence in this place has been absorbed into the Celestriad, and more of it is trickling out into space. If Krynia is not stopped soon, the entire planet will begin to come apart. Gulrock: Looks like the stakes just went up big time. Melana: I imagine that Krynia would be able to hold the planet together with the energy of the Celestriad. Once she has all of Salvations energy, she will have every life on the planet in her hands. Blitz: The people of the world would have absolutely no choice but to follow her, or she would crack the world apart and since shes no longer living on this world, she has no stake in its well-being. Melana: She would essentially become the goddess of this planet. Voice: You must stop her. Blitz: We already know. You can choose to return to the entrance of Salvation from this area, or fight your way back. Either way, when you emerge into the crater, there will be another cutscene. The forces of Goza and Kunara have gathered in and around the crater. The leadership of both nations comes over to meet with your party. *A woman in a military uniform salutes your party.* Woman: General Melissa Zandakier, Acting President of Goza. *Oban comes over, you of course already know him.* Oban: And Im the Archmage of Kunara. these are very difficult circumstances indeed. Blitz: I see youve all stopped fighting. Zandakier: For the moment. Your little display in the sky and the very disturbing phenomena as of late demonstrated to us the need for compromise. Oban: Though I personally disagree, the other ministers have agreed that Krynia is the biggest threat and that your little group is the only one who seems to have some measure of answers. Seeing as how you were able to access the city of Salvation which has been sealed for nearly a century, I suppose youre truly serious about saving us all. Of course, the last time you tried to do that Zandakier: The citizens of Goza have rallied in support of your group. I personally attended Lady Krynias lecture in Centralia I am ashamed that I once admired her, as ashamed as all of you must be. *A minister of Kunara steps up.* Minister: She truly did have us all fooled. Ophi: So you all want to help us? Zandakier: Under the condition that if you do fail to stop her, dont come back to this planet. Oban: If they fail to stop her, the planet wont be worth coming back TO. Zandakier describes a vessel that Goza has been constructing to get into space. For many years, they tried to make it work, but lacked the necessary expertise in Essence to complete it. Kunara possessed the expertise, but not the engineering know-how to make a space vessel. Combining their efforts, the two nations can have the vessel built in a few days.

Zandakier: We are willing to allow you to use it to reach that star and kill Krynia. You have no objections to killing her? Blitz: None. Oban: Good. Until then, weve prepared quarters in Elinal for you. Use them at your leisure. and dont you dare mess this up again. Zandakier: the hopes and dreams of this world rest with you. While you are up there, dealing with Krynia, leaders from Goza and Kunara will work to hash out a peace. Seeing with our own eyes the civilizations that fell to the fires of war has made me never want to lift a weapon again, and I can promise you that many among both nations share that sentiment. Oban: I promise, both Goza and Kunara are committed to peace. Blitz: And I promise well stop Krynia. *extends his hand* Oban: *shakes Blitzs hand* Zandakier: *reaches out and puts her hand around Oban and Blitzs* So now, its time to make preparations for the final battle. Head to Elinal first, youll get a series of cutscenes where the different party members discuss what theyre feeling. Theres a rather emotional discussion between Blitz and Melana, while Hark proposes marriage to Ophi and gives her his mothers wedding ring (which she gave him before he left the Thieves Tower). Ophi accepts Harks proposal and kisses him deeply. Theres a scene where Lucilla tells Gulrock that after all of this is over, she wants kids. This makes Gulrock a little flustered, but he promises her hell give her lots of kids. Theres also a scene of Artemis, planting flowers at Alexias grave. Youre shown the space vessel, which you can go to Elinal and access any time. Upon completion of these scenes, the last of the games sidequests are open to you. You can get uber-ridiculously powerful (strong enough to beat the final boss in one or two hits) or just have some mild diversionary fun before heading to the final dungeon. The world is your oyster, its totally your call. When youre ready, head to Elinal and board the space vessel. NOTE: You CAN turn back any time, when you reach the Celestial Palace, just head to the vessel and return to Earth. The personnel servicing the rocket will express mild annoyance at you, but theres no penalty for going back as many times as you wish. Celestial PalaceKrynias palace is a massive castle in space, floating on three points of light, one red, one green, and one blue, orbiting the planet. The space vessel floats just outside it while the party disembarks, protected from the vacuum of space by a magical bubble generated by Ophi. The party enters the palace at the bottom level, through a large door and into a grand entrance hall. Melana: The Celestriads power permeates every inch of this place. Blitz: Can you sense Krynia anywhere? Melana: Where the energy is strongest, thats where shell be.

The enemies in this palace start out strong and get stronger the further the party goes. Where you start, there will be a long pathway leading to another door, but that door wont open. Youll need to break the four seals on the door, protected by energy waves emanating from the four towers surrounding the central structure. Youll automatically be pointed toward the northwest tower, youre unable to enter any of the others. Celestial Palace, Northwest TowerThe Northwest Tower draws its energy from the red star of the Celestriad, making it a place of powerful fire and vibrant energy. The tower resembles a massive factory structure, and youll need to climb gears and activate machines to ascend its heights. Youll fight both fire-elemental monsters and machine-based enemies here. Eventually, youll reach the top and youll be confronted by a warped distortion of light, at the center of which is a somewhat deformed being in regal robes. He approaches the party and demands their submission. Melana identifies the figure as King Turvan, Krynias father, who was but a child when the Kunarian purge of the royal family took place. Turvan: My daughter is destined to rule this world all who oppose shall drown in their own blood! Melana: His mind and body are but half-formed the Celestriad hasnt finished reconstructing him Blitz: Then lets not let it finish, well take him out right now! *The king howls in rage and transforms into a massive being, somewhat resembling the Dark King from Final Fantasy Mystic Quest. The tower quivers and the battle begins.* BOSS: Turvan (HP: 108,000) Turvan wields a powerful fiery breath attack and a pair of mighty weapons, including a large sword and a massive steel pipe with a spinning gear on the end of it. The fight is somewhat like the Amrauggath battle from way back in the volcano, though the kings big weapons, particularly his steel pipe, can cause some problems and kill off weaker party members with quick, brutal blows. Turn your best ice magic on the king to put him in deep freeze, while your physical attacks, if you choose to use them for this fight, hit as hard and as fast as they can. The kings most powerful special attack, his fire breath, isnt that much to worry about at this point, but keep yourself above 2,000 HP regardless. Turvans death breaks the seal on the northwest tower and opens up access to the northeast tower. The northeast tower is fueled by the energy of the Emerald Star. Celestial Palace, Northeast TowerThe northeast tower is an overgrown, forested area with tree branches and vines ascending its stone structures. The area is strangely calm, though like the other towers, its filled with vicious monsters, including the Rafflesia who can cause dangerous status effects to your party. Eventually, youll reach the top of the tower and will encounter a beautiful woman in gaudy robes. The woman is Queen Elisthra, Krynias mother.

Elisthra: Why have you come here to harm my precious child? Melana: Because of the crap you fed her all her life, about being superior to everyone and how she has a right to kill anyone who gets in her way. Youre a monster! Elisthra: The monsters are the ones who butchered our family we we will make them pay for their crimes against us Blitz: If you really cared about your daughter, youd tell her to stop all of this! Elisthra: And why would I do such an awful thing? I have seen all she has done she will have this world as her own, just as I promised I know you killed my husband how dare you force me to relive the pain of his death I will make you all suffer! *Elisthras body glows, and she morphs into a beast resembling a massive Treant Queen.* BOSS: Elisthra (HP: 76,500) Elisthra can inflict a variety of dangerous status effects on the party, and she has a nasty habit of using Reverse on both herself and the party, leaving you unsure of what hurts and what heals (of course, she ALWAYS knows). She can also use Renew on herself once her HP dips below 10,000, restoring it all. How do you handle such a dangerous foe? The same way youve handled everyone else, of course. As a wind-elemental enemy, Quakega will slaughter her, as will Titan (or just use Bahamut if you feel like it). She doesnt really have a big special attack, though she likes using Renew on Reverseinflicted party members to kill them. Just be smarter than the boss and try to take her out with one big attack before her HP dips below 10,000. Elisthra dies once you win the fight, breaking the northeast towers seal and opening up another path. Your next stop is the southeast tower, governed by the powers of the Sapphire Star. Celestial Palace, Southeast TowerThe southeast tower is in some places flooded with water, requiring the completion of some puzzles in order to drain the sections you need to clear to get up. The aquatic enemies filling this area arent too much of a threat, so dont worry too much about getting killed here, the challenge is in reaching the top. Once you do, youll be confronted by a wise old man, who happens to be the founder of the Sylvid dynasty himself. Sylvidius: Ever since I conquered the northern provinces, the Sylvid dynasty has ruled uninterrupted, uniting and guiding the people of the great eastern continent. Hark: You used fear and violence to rule your subjects! Youre not fit to call yourself a ruler! Sylvidius: It is only the mighty who can claim to rule this world and with the power of life and death at her disposal, Krynia is the mightiest of all. She will claim eternal rule over the planet and over the stars themselves, spreading our enlightened governance to all.

Blitz: Is that all you cared about when you united the northern kingdoms? Or did your newfound power just corrupt you? Sylvidius: I can no longer remember when I had the epiphany that led me to form the great Sylvid Dynasty. All I know is the here and now. Krynia has blessed me with new life and I will use it to protect her. *Sylvidius transforms, taking the appearance of a massive, floating whale.* BOSS: Sylvidius (HP: 104,000) Sylvidius basic attack consists of swinging his body around and hitting the party with his massive tail for around 800 damage each. He can also use the incredibly powerful Imanami attack, sending huge waves at the party for around 4,000 or so damage a piece. There is a few seconds warning for this, so use that time to heal up and hunker down. The strategy for Sylvidius is simple. Use Thunder elemental attacks and physicals to deplete his HP, watching out for Imanami and healing every time his physicals and waterelemental attacks deplete the partys resources. He cant heal like Elisthra, so its a simple matter of outlasting him. Sylvidius defeat shatters the third seal and opens up the fourth tower, a large ivory tower of pure light energy. Celestial Palace, Southwest TowerIt seems that Krynia is using the sheer force of her will to fuel this towers energy and power its seal. Within this tower swirl great torrents of energy that prevent access to certain areas, its only through careful jumps to switches on platforms that the torrents will subside. Once you reach the top, there is a young boy facing out on the balcony, looking out toward Earth. Melana: .who who are you? *approaches the boy with caution* Boy: Why are you why are you here? Are you here to kill my sister? Blitz: Yoursister? Artemis: Krynias mother died giving birth to a boy when Krynia was just eleven years old. The child died in infancy. It seems Krynia has used the Celestriad to undo this event and age the child several years. Boy: Why would you hurt my sister? She brought back mommy and daddy! She brought me back!!! Ophi: We dont want to hurt you but your sister is trying to take over the world Boy: Sheshe said shes the princess of the world! She said the world belongs to her! Gulrock: Shes lied to you. Blitz: We dont want to hurt you, but we have to stop hermaybemaybe you can help usBoy: NO! You wont hurt my sister! You wont take the Celestriad away from her! You wont! I wont let you! *The boy glows brightly and transforms into a hideous monstrosity, a cosmic-horror like

beast with tentacles and claws and eyes all over its body that attacks the party with lethal force.* Blitz: What in the hell has Krynia done? Shed bring back her baby brother only to make him into THIS? Melana: Hehes suffering *shaking* Blitz: Then we have no choice BOSS: Cherubim (HP: 140,000), Tentacle x4 (HP: 15,000) The Cherubim can strike with a variety of attacks, it can swing a massive tentacle, create negative energy gates to inflict a variety of things on the party (including status effects or damage), and it can cast high-level spells, including Scourge and Meteor. Youll need to take out the Cherubims four tentacles, both to reduce the potency of its attacks and to prevent them from blocking physical attacks directed at the beast (and countering magical ones). Once the tentacles are gone, the fight begins in earnest. Hit the Cherubim with everything you have. Its most powerful attack is the Otherworldly Tempest, a rush of energy from the negative dimension that causes around 3,000 damage to the entire party AND inflicts Reverse so that healing is troublesome, target a mass-damage spell at the party to recover. Once the Cherubim falls, the boy returns to normal, collapsing to the ground. The party rushes to his side. Ophi immediately performs a spell to calm his soul, knowing hes too mortally wounded to heal. Ophi: Please forgive us youll see your sister again very soon, I promise. Boy: *holds Ophis hand* Ican see nowI knowshes hurting everyoneplease dont let her do it anymore *The boy dies, his soul floating into space as wisps of light.* Blitz: Krynia shes too far gone to save. Melana: Anyone who would do that to their own brother Blitz: Come on. The central tower should be open. Celestial Palace, Central TowerReturn to the grand hall and enter the Central Tower through the wide-open gate. This tower is larger than the four connecting towers, though there are no puzzles left, its just a straight climb to the top through waves of very difficult enemies. The path becomes more and more cryptic as the party nears the top, the stairs take on a crystal appearance and glow with an increasingly bright light. Finally, the party reaches a room where there is a save point, use it and enter the next area. Here lies one final door, and chained across it is Luna, her soul forming the doors lock. She is shaking in silent torment, as the chains tug her body taut as more energy flows into the room beyond. She weakly looks up at the party as they approach. Blitz: Luna! What happened to you? Luna: My soul forms the lock on this door. Annihilate me end my suffering Melana: We wont do that, youll cease to exist forever!

Luna: My existence for the last four thousand years has been a restless torrent of pain. Artemis: *to the others* She wills her own destruction. Blitz: I cant do that, not to the person who tried to save this world before us! Luna: *screams in rage and pain* DO IT! YOU SAID YOU COULD SAVE THIS WORLD, NOW DESTROY ME AND DO WHAT YOU PROMISED YOU WOULD DO! Blitz: *gathering energy in his sword* Krynia: You would so willingly condemn her to nothingness just to stop me? Blitz: *stops* Krynia Artemis: Her life is already forfeit. After you destroy her, she will feel nothing. Krynia: And how to you profess to know what happens to souls who are condemned to oblivion? Artemis: The cessation of existence is the cessation of thought, of feeling. There is nothing beyond the destruction of the soul. Krynia: Or perhaps you dont destroy the soul, you merely scatter it to the winds. Imagine, an eternity as a soul ripped asunder, condemned to foreverBlitz: ENOUGH! *runs forward and impales Lunas spirit on his blade, his sword piercing her heart* Luna: *smiles* Thank you. *she fades and immediately recoalesces, her spirit still chained across the door* no! Krynia: She goes nowhere unless I will it! And her suffering will be neverending! *Luna screams in agony as Krynias dark energy pierces the door, torturing every molecule of her spirit.* Krynia: And you will never break this lock! Blitz: Yes we will! Everyone, together! *Blitz keeps his sword impaled in Luna as the entire party joins their energies with his.* Blitz: *closes his eyes* Soon your suffering will end *Luna continues to scream as a spirit of pure darkness begins emerging from her body. The spirit takes her form and floats before the group, its face contorted in violent rage.* Luna Obscura: This girls soul is mine you cannot free her! Blitz: Never tell us we cant! BOSS: Luna Obscura (HP: 80,000) This fight is quick but fierce, Luna Obscura uses powerful gravity-based attacks to quickly halve and quarter the partys HP while using powerful dark magic to destroy what remains. Her spell Total Eclipse reduces the partys HP to 1, necessating immediate healing (keep someone on standby to heal at all times). Luna Obscura will alternate between complete immunity from physical and magical attacks, bring a party adept in both to keep the party attacking at all times. I recommend Blitz, Melana, and Sanathri, but you can use any party you want as long as its got a healthy mix of physical, magical, and healing techniques. Luna Obscuras destruction causes the dark spirit within Luna to be destroyed, but shes still chained to the door and the chains and her spirit are unbreakable.

Luna: Forgive me my ceaseless attachment to this world made me vulnerable to being used like this by Krynia. My condemnation of humanity was a self-fulfilling prophecy. Please save as many people as you can. *tears course down her face* Blitz: We wont give up, Luna.! Well find a way through that door well always find a way! Sanathri: *very quietly concentrating* Hark: Sanathri? Are youSanathri: Shhh Melana: Does she have a way to break the chains? Sanathri: yes. I do. *A flashback plays, showing Ban and Kavil protecting Luna as the three of them race across a battlefield, deflecting all attacks directed toward them. The three then mount an attack of their own, working in beautiful tandem to defeat their enemies. Lunas eyes open as she has the same flashback. She manages the slightest of smiles.* Luna: Ban Kavil so greatly have I missed you *Two wisps of light appear in the room, taking the shapes of Lunas long-departed friends. They appear next to the chains binding Lunas spirit to the door, cutting them down and freeing her, and catching her as she falls.* Ban: How many times have we had to save you? Luna: ! BanKavil! Kavil: Its all right you wont have to suffer anymore. Krynia: Yes, she will! You all will! *directs a powerful dark energy blast through the door, in an effort to annihilate the souls of Ban, Kavil, and Luna but the blast is blocked by Blitz, joined by the seven other party members, Melana taking Blitzs hand as he holds up his sword to the blast* Blitz: You wont ever beat us, Krynia! No matter what you throw in our path, well overcome it! *The three spirits look on as the party stops Krynias powerful beam of magical light. For the first time, hope registers in their eyes as they watch these heroes stand up to overwhelming power. Finally, the beam of light dissipates as Krynia no longer has the will to sustain it. It fades and the party is able to rest.* Blitz: Is that the best you can do? Luna: That was that was incredible you all stood up to the Celestriads power Kavil: You dont really think they can beat her, do you? Ban: Luna youre not youre not sad anymore, I can feel it! Luna: No, Im not sad. *to Blitz and the others* The power you possessI cannot describe it. There is something within you that none of the other would-be saviors did not have. Melana: Its not within us. We fight with the weight of the world on our shoulders. Blitz: Everyone down there is counting on us. They all support us. They worked hard to help us come here. Ophi: And no matter what, we wont let them down! Ban: You united the world? Luna: Then then perhaps you can save it. *A light emanates from her heart, and the hearts of Ban and Kavil* .!!!

Ban: *takes Lunas hand* Kavil: *takes her other hand* I guess well have to believe in them too, then. Luna: Yes let us all believe. *to Blitz* You have our trust and our faith. Add it to your strength and you cannot fail. *The three spirits rise to the stars, finally free of their pain.* There is a bit more dialogue, then youre given control of the party. Heal up and save. The final confrontation awaits. Step through the doors and into a shimmering crystal throne room. Krynia is sitting on the throne. Krynia: *stands* Youve come at last. Blitz: This ends now, Krynia. Today is the day that you die. Melana: wait. *to Krynia* Do you have any idea of the suffering that youll cause if you continue your course of action? Do you think the people down there will want you to rule them? Krynia: They will bow to me or they and their planet will be destroyed. Melana: And what if they prefer their own destruction to your rule? Krynia: They are cowards. They are weak. They would rather live in fear than die in a flash of light. Ophi: Krynia, theres still time time for you to stop all of this! That person who befriended us before Krynia: That person does not exist. Ophi: No, she does! You you were sad when you told us about being all alone here deep down, theres still a part of you that wishes toKrynia: NO! I have always intended to rule the world, from the moment I was born to the moment I seized the Celestriads power. Artemis: Theres no reasoning with someone like her. We have to kill her, before the Celestriads power becomes absolute! Ophi: *with tears in her eyes* Then why were you trying to bring your little brother back? Was it just to make us not want to break the seal, or did you regret that he would never grow up? He loves you, he told us! Krynia: My love for my family does not diminish my contempt for everyone outside it. Are you all really that nave that you would try to talk ME down? After you promised everyone else that you would kill me? Are you lying to them just as I lied to you? *she smiles* Its funny before you came, I fully intended to allow you all to serve under me as my knights. You or anyone else who brought the Celestriad to me. Cant you feel it? The power coursing within all of you? All the people who NEED your protection they need you, but you dont need them. Blitz: Youre wrong you have no idea how many people helped us get here, to get stronger! People you had a hand in killing! Krynia: Actually, if I recall, most of them died at the hands of the Gozans and Kunarians, the very people youre now trying to save from their own stupidity. Your goals and mine are the same. Blitz: No. We will NEVER join you. Krynia: Dont say I didnt give you a chance. Ophi: The feeling is mutual *bows her head*

*The Celestriads power courses into Krynias body. She draws her sword.* Krynia: I am the rightful ruler of this planet! Bow down before me! Blitz: Never! BOSS: Krynia (HP: 95,000) Krynia will start the fight by immediately casting Impregnable Barrier, making herself completely immune to physical attacks. She then casts Reflect, which will cause anything cast at her to reflect back onto the party. Of course, spells such as Scourge, Meteor, and Ultima arent affected, so start bombarding her with them immediately. Eventually, her Impregnable Barrier will fade and you can hit her with physical attacks as well, though her defense is unnaturally high and she has something called Absolute Limit which will make ALL attacks cap at 9999, even your most powerful Full-Force Attacks with No Damage Limit. Her attacks consist of a normal sword swipe (around 2,000 damage to a single party member) and an array of magical attacks, including standard high-level spells and special attacks such as Blinding Light (2,000+ damage to the party). She can also utilize a physical special where she leaps high into the air and then comes down on a party member with her sword, impaling them for an instant KO. The Absolute Limit will make this fight go a bit slower than some of the others youve encountered, but utilizing attacks that hit more than once, such as Full-Force Attacks and spells such as Meteor, will expedite matters. Krynia is powerful but not overwhelmingly so, and shell eventually fall like all the others. Krynia: *collapses to her knees, the Celestriads power fading from her body* Dammit youre stronger than I had Blitz: *walks over to Krynia, about to slice off her head* Krynia: *just looking up into Blitzs eyes her eyes close and her body slumps she collapses, lifeless, before Blitz can execute her* Blitz: *puts his sword away* Melana: Her magical energy was incredible, but all of those years in exile made her body weak without the Celestriad being at its fully charged state, she couldnt sustain all of that power and she couldnt ward off our attacks. Artemis: And now shes dead. Ophi: Then its over? *The scene switches to the planet below. Lights are fading out everywhere, and not coming back on. Deep beneath the planet in Salvation, the last of the energy fades from the Essence there. The planet begins to quake. All over the world, there are massive cataclysms as the ground cracks and the sky goes completely dark, save for a brilliant light emanating from the palace. In the throne room, the Celestriad emits a brilliant glow.* Melana: *collapses with the other party members* Its power is overwhelming! *The party screams as the Celestriad transforms into three interconnected dragon-like beasts, whose forms tower over the party.* Blitz: The Celestriad its fully charged Ruby Star: Humans it has been an eternity since our power has been united.

Melana: This isnt good without some of the Celestriads power, the Earth will come apart! Artemis: Its already begun *looking at the images displayed on the walls of the room* Blitz: *to the creature* The world is in danger we need to bring the Celestriad back! Emerald Star: You have perverted our power for thousands of years Sapphire Star: What makes you think you are worthy to wield it now? Blitz: We defeated the person who was using your power to control the planet, and were trying to use your power to save it! Ruby Star: Your sins are too grave humanity is not worth saving! *The three creatures radiate the celestial power of the artifact as they grow even larger. The party prepares for another fight.* BOSS: Ruby Star (140,000 HP), Emerald Star (170,000 HP), Sapphire Star (80,000 HP) The Celestriad has assumed the form of three mighty dragons that must all be defeated to win this fight. The Emerald Star can heal the others, making it your first priority (despite the fact that it has the most HP). The three beasts will attack with a variety of elemental strikes against the party, including the Trinity Delta attack, which will be used after the glow of the three creatures begins to resonate, youll need to watch for this as it will do over 5,000 damage to each party member when it hits, it even pierces spells such as Shell (of course, Shell is effective against most of the other magic from the Celestriad, so you should still cast it). Ruby Star will frequently cast Flare and Star Flare, while Sapphire Star uses Imanami, and Emerald Star can cast Bad Breath (another reason to take it out first). After defeating the Emerald Star, focus all your attacks on the Sapphire Star, its lower HP makes it far easier to take out than the Ruby Star. However, be aware that once only one of the dragons remains, its attacks will become significantly stronger and it will use its most powerful attacks more frequently. The Ruby Star is FAR more dangerous alone than the Sapphire Star, so its up to you to decide which of the two to take out first. Id still go with the Sapphire Star, but you may want to equip as much Fire-resistant armor or accessories as you can. Use of Reflect to stave off Flare is also smart. The defeat of the Celestial dragons does nothing to diminish the Celestriads power, though the beasts now bow to the partys might. Ruby Star: Your will is strong and through our battle, we have felt the pureness in your hearts. Emerald Star: The Celestriads power is yours to command. Blitz: *approaches the Celestriad with Melana and the others* How will we return its power to Salvation and save the Earth? Melana: We need to take it to Salvation and let the spirits there do the rest. Ophi: Will that work? Melana: It has to *she reaches out to take it* Blitz: Melana? *smiles* Melana: Blitz Im ready. Blitz: *takes Melanas hand* Im here.

*Melana is about to place her hands on the Celestriad, only for Krynias sword to slash across her ankle* Melana: Nnnnnhhh! *falls from the wound* Krynia: *blasts Melana back into Blitz and the others, then stands up, weakened but determined to take the Celestriads full power* I. will rule this world.me only me!! Melana: NO! Blitz: *rushes at Krynia, only for her to grab the Celestriad, sending out a surge of energy that blasts everyone back* *Krynias body transforms into a nude, crystallized, multicolored form resembling that of a beautiful goddess, merged with the crystal which creates glowing, multicolored marks across her body* Krynia: I hold the world in my hands!!! *she extends her hand and the cataclysms enveloping the world stop in an instant* Would you dare destroy the world to destroy me?! Blitz: Well destroy you AND save the world Krynia: I AM the world and the stars and the universe for all eternity! BOSS: Krynia Celestia (HP: 286,990) The fight begins with the partys attacks completely unable to damage Krynia. Of course, this is because shes hooked into the full energy of the Celestriad, and essentially omnipotent. So how do you damage her? Blitz: Theres no way to hurt her! Melana: Just keep hitting her, maybe well get through! After 50,000 HP worth of damage (you have no way to see how much youre causing, but youll be able to tell how close youre getting because Krynias body will become increasingly detached from the structure of the Celestriad), youll disconnect her from the Celestriad and shell be vulnerable to damage. However, even when shes detached, Krynia is capable of some incredibly powerful attacks. Shell strike with a large sword of crystallized energy to do around 4,000 damage or so to a single party member, this is her basic attack. She has a number of specials including Rain of Fire (dozens of fireballs slam into the party, causing around 200-400 each, this adds up fast), Undying Scream (1,000+ damage, plus your party is unable to attack for a few turns, fortunately she doesnt spam this and it CAN be dodged if youre quick), among several others. Her most powerful attack is Ancestral Vengeance, where rulers from throughout the history of the Sylvid Dynasty concentrate their attacks on your party. You need to defend and have Shell and Protect up or this might kill your entire party even at maximum HP, and the ancestors use a variety of physical and magical attacks to cause damage. This attack is capable of doing 10,000+ to every single member of your party, which is of course an automatic kill unless youve started acquiring Break HP Limit armor, but with proper preparation, you can considerably reduce the damage. Sanathris potions can help to buffer this attack as well, so you might want to consider using her. This form of Krynia does NOT have Absolute Limit, so if you can do more than 10,000 with your attacks, the battle will be

considerably shorter. Also, if you die during this fight, youll be able to restart right before it, you wont have to face the two earlier fights again. Between Krynias temporary periods of invincibility and all the healing youll have to do, this will be a long, drawn-out fight, but dig deep, be careful, and above all, never stop believing that you can win. Krynia: *screams as shes separated from the Celestriad again* Aaaaaaaaaaghhh! *she collapses to the ground, unable to get a grip on the Celestriad as her ravaged body is just too weak to get up she can feel her soul being scattered to the winds* Nnnn.nnnnhhhNO! Blitz: *backing off as large waves of energy are blown off of Krynias body* Krynia: I I am the ruler of the world its my destiny!!! I cant die now! NO! *she frantically tries to grasp the Celestriad but her hands begin to fade out as well* NO!!! *lets out one final agonized scream as her soul rips apart* *The Celestriad continues to glow. The party slowly approaches it.* Blitz: Its now or never Melana: Right. *she takes it, when suddenly, there is a massive shaking* !!! *In space, the red, blue, and green aura keeping the palace afloat is fading.* Ophi: Whats going on?! Melana: It was Krynias spell that propelled this palace into the sky without her magic sustaining it, its going to fall! Lucilla: Cant you cast a spell to keep the palace up? Melana: This palace was built from Krynias will I wouldnt know where to begin Blitz: And what about the planet? Melana: *takes the Celestriad* We need to hurry. The party races to the vessel, which is still orbiting the palace as it has begun descending toward the planet. Melana: Everyone place your hands on the Celestriad. We obtained its power together, and we can wield it together. *The party takes some of the Celestriads power, enough to sustain Salvations energy.* Sanathri: I can infuse this energy into the Essence crystals of Salvation. Itll hold the world together. Ophi: But it wont help if that thing crashes into the planet! Hark: Im not sure its big enough to cause that much damage Ophi: Its rich with magical energy the impact of the palace combined with the power of the energy within will cause a cataclysm that would shatter the planet! Melana: I wont let that happen. I might not be able to keep this palace afloat, but I wont let it fall. Im staying here. Blitz: Melana? Melana: Blitz, go back with the others this is my burden now. Theres an argument between Melana and the party, but they finally relent and board the vessel even Blitz does so, making Melana promise to come back when all of this is over. She doesnt say a word. The vessel departs, leaving Melana to return to Krynias throne room. Meanwhile, the party is on the vessel, uneasy as it returns to Earth. It is

discovered that Blitz hasnt actually boarded hes back at the palace with Melana. Hark is distraught that Blitz stayed, but Ophi comforts him they know that its up to Blitz and Melana to save the world now. Alternating cutscenes play, showing Hark, Ophi, Gulrock, Lucilla, Artemis, and Sanathri making their way quickly back to Salvation, barely replacing the energy present within the Essence crystals in time to save the planet. The cataclysms stop and the party emerges from the crater to a grateful world but now, the palace hovers in the sky, plummeting faster and faster to the planet. Melana takes the Celestriad and focuses its power as best as she can, but a wave of uncertainty washes over her. She thinks of Lunas failure and Krynias madness, and remembers her own doubts and the time when she turned on her friends. She falls to her knees and closes her eyes, gripping the Celestriad with all her might. It begins to shatter Blitz: Melana! Melana: Blitz? I told you to go with the others! Blitz: Remember what I promised? That Id go to the ends of the earth with you? Melana: II made that promise to you. Blitz: We made it to each other. You dont have to bear this burden alone. You never have. *holds onto the Celestriad with her* Now are we going to do this, orMelana: Yes. *smiling* No matter what happens. *A rearrangement of Shining From Far Away begins to play. The Celestriad glows between Blitz and Melana, while on Earth, the people of both nations and the party members watch as the palace rapidly falls to the planet in a multicolored fireball. Up in the palace, Blitz and Melana realize that theyll have to destroy the palace with themselves inside in order to prevent it from crashing to the planet. The Celestriad can disintegrate the palace safely, but even with its powers, it cant protect them. The two realize whats going to happen to them, but theyve come to terms with it.* Blitz: *takes Melanas hand* At least the world will be safe and at peace Melana: Our friends will be sad. Blitz: *smiles* I can hear them now I can hear everything now. Melana: I can hear it too the Celestriad is speaking *The Celestriad glows and the palace begins to break up. Back on Earth, the people begin taking shelter, but soon everyone, first the party and then ordinary Gozans and Kunarians, can see the impactor breaking up in the sky, giving off trails of brilliant colored light that illuminate the sky. The world is saved, but Hark and the others know that Blitz and Melana have made the ultimate sacrifice for it.* Ophi: Hark, they Hark: *holds Ophi tightly in his arms* Artemis: This didnt have to happen Sanathri: I should be the one up there Lucilla: You were the only one who could restore the energy to Salvation.

Gulrock: Dammit. They worked harder than any of us to make this possible Ophi: *sobbing into Harks chest* *The only remains of the palace are two singular rays of light, one blue and one red. The lights draw closer to the planet, seemingly fading as they descend to land. Hark looks up to watch them fall.* Hark: ...theyre beautiful Ophi: *looks up at the lights* But I cant enjoy it, not when my friends are Artemis: wait a moment *senses something from the lights* It cant be *Inside the beams of light, the Ruby and Sapphire Stars fall to Earth and holding them are Melana and Blitz.* Melana: *opens her eyes* What.what happened? Blitz: Were alive were falling! *gets over to where Melana is and takes her hand* But how? Melana: *closes her eyes and hears the voice of the Celestriad* Voice: Your choice is a wise one to split this power between the nations while the Emerald Star remains among its brothers in the sky, keeping the peace. Our spirit will do its best to protect you, brave champions but it is a fall from space you may not wake up. *The flashback ends. Blitz and Melana hold each others hands tightly while their free hands hold the stars of the Celestriad. The stars glow the descent slows. Blitz and Melana descend peacefully to the ground, falling near their friends, who run to meet them.* Hark: Youre alive! Ophi: *laughing, she embraces Melana tightly while Hark runs to Blitzs side, looking at the piece of the Celestriad in his hand* Hark: What happened up there? Blitz: Im not entirely sure but we learned how to save ourselves and keep the peace. Melana: The Ruby Star goes to Goza and the Sapphire Star goes to Kunara. With equal resources, protected by the power of the Emerald Star in the sky. *The Emerald Star shines a brilliant green in the sky, resonating with the power of the Sapphire and Ruby Stars. The song comes to an end as the people of the two nations look to the star, rising over a new era of peace.* *There are more cutscenes, showing Oban and Zandakier announcing to the world a new peace and that both nations will use the magical energy of the Celestriad to build a brighter new world. The energy will gradually drain as it is used, reverting to the Emerald Star and forming a new Celestriad in the sky, so it is up to humanity to use its ingenuity during its time of peace to find a new energy source to fuel the world in its new era. As the people all over the world begin rebuilding from their time of war, with people of both nations working all over to conduct the repairs. Various scenes play showing the party returning to their lives. Sanathri returns to Salvation, and using some of the Celestriads power that was infused into the crystals there, gives up her immortality so that she can finish out the rest of her natural life. Artemis becomes the new leader of the Academy of Magic, Gulrock and Lucilla return to command their old squad as Generals of Goza under Zandakier, Ophi tells the people of the Underbelly that they can return to the

surface with permission of the Kastith city leaders, only to learn from Opala that theyve gotten used to living in the sewers and that they enjoy it, Hark and Ophi bring Rubidia back to see Harks father for the first time in years, and finally, Blitz and Melana return to the SEEC Quarry. Now that they no longer need to mine Essence, Melana decides to ask the workers of the Quarry to help in looking for new forms of energy to power the planet. She asks Blitz if he still wishes to work under her.* Blitz: Isnt it unprofessional to date my superior? Melana: all right, what if we were partners, then? Blitz: but thats too much work! Melana: You lazy bum! *Blitz, Melana, and their workers go to meet up with Hark, Ophi, Gulrock, Lucilla, Artemis, and Sanathri at the entrance of the quarry. The scene pans out to show the entire quarry, the island, and the planet, its surface glowing under the light of the Emerald Star and the resonance of the Ruby and Sapphire Stars on the two continents. The scene fades to black and the credits begin to play, along with two songs. First, an orchestral version of Shining From Far Away, without lyrics, followed by the classic Final Fantasy theme. As the FF theme is playing, the screen splits and shows Ophi and Harks wedding in Kastith, with the party and other major living characters there to celebrate. The bouquet is thrown and it seems that Melana will catch it, only for Sanathri to suddenly leap out and do so, much to Melanas annoyance. The scene ends with Blitz and Melana holding hands and looking up at the sky, where the Emerald Star still shines.* *The credits end.* FIN