Script of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 - Chapter 2

The second chapter of Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Aptitude, continues to establish the nature of Drivers and Blades as the core of an adventuring party forms.

This page is divided into sections based on the Events Theater. Scenes not in the Events Theater (such as story quests or unvoiced dialogue) are shown as italic headers and given unofficial titles.

Why Still Alive, Meh?!

Pupunin, having witnessed everything that just happened to end the previous chapter, is reporting it all to Bana through the videophone.

Pupunin

...And so Pupunin wisely ran away for dear life.

Bana
(incensed)

Wise? Who wise now?
You useless idiot.
Why can Pupunin not even die properly? What if they ask Bana to repay money, hmm?

Pupunin

Huh? Die? Repay who?

Bana

Meh! None of your business.
Anyway. Tell me where Rex and Blade went.

Pupunin

Rex, Titan and friends ran away!
Went to south of Cyclus Sea - after that, Bana know as much as Pupunin!
Storm was very thick, so Pupunin...

Bana

Pupunin lose them, yes?

Pupunin

Yes, but-

Bana

And then run away like coward?

Pupunin

Y-yes, but-

Bana
(enraged)

Meh-meh-meh-meh-meh! Bana not wanting feeble excuses of Pupunin!
Just get back here!
You got lot of work to do!

He immediately hangs up.

Bana

Meh-meh-meh... Even pricey insurance Bana take out on Maelstrom go to waste...
Still, how interesting...

He then takes a look at his map of Alrest on the wall.

♫

The Past Revealed

Bana
(suddenly pensive)

Heading southward from Cyclus Sea...
In current season, that likely take them to Gormott.

He turns to the secretary dancer on the left.

Bana

You, girl! Get Consul Dughall on the line immediately!

Harghal

Yes, sir. One moment, please.

Bana sits there doing nothing while she works on the videophone. The image of an Ardainian man appears.

Dughall

Why, if it isn't Chairman Bana. What an unexpected pleasure.
May I just say that I admire how you rebranded those broken Core Crystals.
And selling them on to the dunderheads back in Mor Ardain - absolutely sublime!

Bana

Bana did not call to hear pointless flattery!
And blabbering about Core Crystals on unsecured line?! Is Dughall some kind of idiot?
What if Indol tap our communication?

Dughall

O-oh, of course! I'm very sorry!

Bana

Meh, forget it. We got bigger fishies to fry.

Dughall

Oh? What's going on?

Bana

Listen up...

Elsewhere, Rex wakes up.

Rex

Unghh...

The first thing he sees is Pyra's...face, definitely her face. She's happy he's awake. His head is resting in her lap.

Rex

...Pyra...?

They appear to be in a forest of some kind.

Pyra

Oh, thank goodness. You aren't injured at all, are you?

Rex

No, I'm...fine, I guess...
Where...?

Pyra

I'm not certain. We seem to have washed up on a Titan of some kind.

Rex

A Titan?

Rex remembers what happened - Nia and Dromarch protecting him, and Gramps showing up.

Rex

Ahh!

He bolts upright.

Rex

Where's Gramps? And Nia?!

Pyra also stands up, and shakes her head. Rex looks around the foggy forest in a bit of a panic, seeing only his helmet sitting a distance away.

Rex

We gotta find them! They can't be far!

Pyra

OK!

They start heading off, Rex grabbing his helmet as he runs by.

Gramps's Fate

Rex

Gramps!

♫

Loneliness

Rex has found Gramps and is hurrying towards him. It doesn't look good; he's collapsed on the ground with several lances sticking out of him. He slowly opens an eye.

Gramps

It is good to see you uninjured, Rex.

Pyra

How awful...

Rex

Hold on, I should have some herbs...

He starts trying to search through his pockets.

Gramps

You are kind, but no amount of human medicine would suffice.

Rex

B-but...

Gramps

Weep not, my boy. This is my fate.

Rex

I...I can't help it, can I?!

Gramps

No parting is forever. We will surely meet again when the flow of the ether wills it...

He starts to glow a whitish blue.

Rex

Pyra

...

Gramps

The days with you were the best I ever had. Until we meet again, Rex...

Rex

Gramps!

He steps forward some more, but Gramps fades away, leaving only a swarm of blue particles. Rex mindlessly tries to catch them.

Rex

Gramps! Graaaamps!

He falls to his knees annd starts crying. Pyra is also sad but less outward about it.

Smaller voice

I told you not to cry, didn't I, Rex?

Rex continues sobbing.

Smaller voice

Rex...
Rex...

Rex

Graaamps!

Smaller voice

Reeeex!

Rex finally looks up to see a small white creature in front of him.

♫

Wanted Nia

Rex assumes he's seeing things and rubs his eyes, but nope, there really is a little fuzzy critter sitting there with two arms, two legs, a tail, two tiny wings, yellow eyes, and a blue diamond-shaped crystal in its chest. It's shaped kind of like Gramps, actually, just a lot smaller and less rocky.

Rex

Pyra

Whaaaat?!

Rex

G-G-Gramps? How is that-?

Pyra

It can't be...

Gramps?

Use your eyes! Don't you recognize me?!

It sounds like him too, just smaller.

Pyra

Um, well...not really, no.

Rex

I am so confused right now...

Gramps

So you see, by maximizing cellular regeneration to retain all vital bodily functions...
I seem to have reverted to a larval stage.

He slowly hovers up into the air. He doesn't care if you think he shouldn't be able to fly with those tiny wings.

Rex
(now in a bad mood)

Well that's quite handy. Must be nice to be a Titan!

Gramps

This isn't something just any old Titan can do! Only one so advanced as myself-
Erm, Rex, are you angry?

Rex
(yes)

Hmf! I'm not.
...It's more that I didn't want you to see me blubbering like a baby!

Gramps

Ho ho. It's okay to be angry.

Gramps sits back on the ground. Must be tiring.

Rex

So when will you be back to your old self?

Gramps

Good question. No more than 300 years.

Rex

Th-three hundred years? But I'll be long dead by then!

Gramps

Hmm. I suppose that's true.

Rex

But...what about my house?! Do I have to live on the streets?!

Gramps

Perhaps this is an opportunity to fly the nest.

Rex

You mean...pay rent?

Gramps

Ho ho, miserboots!

Rex

It's a massive extra expense!
Still... Glad you're OK, Gramps.

Gramps gives him the thumbs-up.

Rex

Oh, shoot! We can't stand around all day! We have to find Nia!

Gramps

Nia? You mean that Driver and her Blade from before?

Rex

Yeah. They kind of saved our lives.

Pyra

I do hope they are all right.

Rex

Gramps, do you remember anything?

Gramps

I remember crashing through many trees before landing here...
They probably fell off then.

Rex

Hmm, that's not a whole lot to go on...

Pyra

Perhaps we would have some luck following the trail of broken trees?

Rex

Good thinking, Pyra! Let's go!

Gramps

By the way, Rex, is that a Core Crystal I see shining on your chest?
Just what happened to you?

Rex

I'll tell you later. Right now we need to find Nia!

Rex picks up Gramps and deposits him into his salvager helmet.

Gramps

Ohoh! Now this makes a nice change!

They head off.

A Ripple in the Ether

The trio is moving along when Rex hears violence in the distance.

Rex

What's that sound?

♫

Battle!!

Pyra

I felt a ripple in the ether. It feels like a Driver is using a Blade in battle.
I'm certain of it!

Rex

Let's go!

Pyra

OK!

They hurry forward.
Not far away, Nia and Dromarch are facing down a large Brog.

Dromarch

My lady, leave this to me!

Nia

I'm not just going to abandon you, Dromarch!

The Brog gets hit by a fire shot cast from offscreen. Nia goes "Wha-?!" as Rex and Pyra arrive.

Rex

We're here to help, Nia!

Nia

Rex?! What're you doing here?

Dromarch

My lady, now's our chance! Let's attack!

Nia

All right, then!

The Brog glances at the group like it's realized it's in too deep.

Talk Later

The Brog has been defeated.

Nia

So why are you guys even... Well, I guess that's a stupid question.

Dromarch

Indeed.

Rex

Seriously, it's good to see you. And you're all right.

Nia

Right back at you.
Hey, by the way. What happened to the big guy who saved us? The Titan?

Gramps

Are you talking about me?

Nia

Wait, what? How?

Rex

That's sort of a long story.
Let's get somewhere we can rest. I'll tell you all about it then.

Dromarch

That seems prudent. My lady?

Nia

Sure. Lead the way.

The group has found a place on the path to build a campfire for the night, and are sitting down around it.

♫

A Place in the Sun

Nia

I see. So you two are off to Elysium.
Listen, I never thanked you properly. For saving us, I mean.
Dromarch said that you... carried us all the way here.

Dromarch

We owe you our lives, Titan.

Gramps

No need to thank me. After all, you were the ones who saved Rex.

Nia

Don't mention it.
So you Titans can regenerate. Pretty handy.

Gramps

This isn't something just any old Titan ca-

Rex

You can retire that line now.

Gramps

Excuse me?! I'd like less of that attitude!
If you had listened to me and declined that reckless job to begin with, we wouldn't be in this mess!
"Take a nap" you said, like I was some kind of doddery old man...

Rex
(dripping in sarcasm)

Okay, okay, I get it! I'm a terrible disappointment.
Look how sorry I am!

Gramps

Can you not muster even a shred of sincere remorse?

Rex

Sorry, but I can't.

Gramps

What?

Rex

If I hadn't taken the job, they'd have got their hands on Pyra.

Pyra

Rex...

Rex

I couldn't let that happen. No way. They can never take her.

Gramps

...

Time passes. Rex and Dromarch are asleep. Nia is exhibiting cat behavior by being flopped out on top of Dromarch in the most uncomfortable pose ever yet also being asleep. Pyra is standing over by a nearby pond. Gramps approaches her.

Gramps

Hello there. Still awake, I see.

Pyra

I can't seem to sleep.
It's good to see you again...Azurda.

Gramps

Likewise. Though you've changed a lot since last we met, Pyra.

Pyra

I suppose I have. A lot's happened.

♫

Contrition

Gramps

Yes it has. I wanted to thank you for saving my dear Rex.
And I need to know - what you told him, is that what you really intend?

Pyra

Yes. It is my true desire.

Gramps

I see. Well, that's good enough. I have no reason to doubt you, Pyra.

Pyra

That said... I do have one other goal now.

Gramps

Jin and Malos.

Pyra

I cannot allow them to continue with their current course.

Gramps

The fate of an Aegis never changes...

Pyra

Right...

Gramps

And you're going to get Rex mixed up in this?

Pyra

...

Gramps

I'm not blaming you.
No matter how hard you tried, that boy would find some way to get involved.

Pyra looks uncomfortable.

Gramps

I see half your Core is missing. Seems you've taken on quite a burden.

Pyra

Azurda, I...

Gramps

Promise me you'll take care of Rex.

Pyra

I will.

Gramps seems content with this; he leaves.
Morning comes. Rex stretches and yawns.

Rex

Right then. We should probably try and find a town or something.
Does anyone have any idea where we are?

Nia

This is Gormott. A province of the Ardainian Empire.
You must've seen the Gormott Titan before?

Rex

Yeah, only from a distance, though.

Nia

We're somewhere around its belly.

Rex

So...this is Gormott, huh?
Hang on a second, Nia - your ears. Are you Gormotti?

Nia

Well done, genius. Took you long enough!

Dromarch

Gormott is the land of my lady's birth.

Rex

Wow. Well, that's reassuring.

Nia

If we wanna find a town, the first step is to get out of this forest.
Keep heading up and we'll hit the plains soon. The town's that way.

Rex

Brilliant. Let's get going!

Welcome to Gormott Province

♫

The Towering Yggdrasil

The group reaches Outlook Knoll, where the sky is no longer blocked by trees and fog. Rex and Pyra look out in wonder, while Nia looks out with an expression more like "yeah it's great isn't it". The camera suddenly pulls back to show the impressive expanse of lush land across the back of the Gormott Titan, its goatlike head bobbing in the distance.

Pyra

Oh my goodness. What a wonderful view!

Gramps

Spectacular indeed.

Rex

Yeah, this is great! Especially after slumming it on Gramps's back for so long!

Gramps

Hmph. It served you well enough!

Nia

Over there, that's Torigoth. Biggest city in Gormott.

There is indeed a collection of brown buildings in the distance.

Nia

I'll accompany you as far as the city. After that, I'm afraid you're on your own.

Rex

Oh... On our own?

Nia

Of course. I would have thought even you'd know why I can't be seen with you.

Rex

Because you're supposed to be one of them?

Nia

I haven't known them very long, but you know. They're still my crew.

Rex

Your crew? Even after they tried to kill you?

Nia

That's as may be, but they're the closest thing I have to a family.

Rex

Nia...

Nia

Right! Let's go.

Changing Tides

As they get close to Torigoth, Rex notices something.

Rex

Hang on a moment, guys.
Is it just me, or is the Cloud Sea level higher than it was before?

Pyra

I think you're right.

Nia

Guess it must be what they call high tide.

Rex

The Cloud Sea level changes because of the Gormott Titan walking through it, right?

Gramps

At times, the clouds reach scarcely up to the Titan's ankles...
While at other times, like now, the clouds are around its belly.

Nia

With the clouds at this height, I guess we won't be able to get back to the place where we made camp.

Dromarch

Indeed... That area will be submerged beneath the clouds.

Rex

But the Titan's always moving, so I'm sure the clouds will be lower again sooner or later.

Gramps

Quite right.

Rex

I'd heard about stuff like this, but it's kind of amazing seeing it first-hand.
You don't get phenomena like this in Argentum, or in Leftheria, that's for sure.
Alrest really is a big place.

Nia

All right, that's enough gawping. Let's get going - Torigoth is so close now, I can smell it.

Gormott Hasn't Changed a Bit

The party arrives at the Torigoth Arch, the city's main entrance.

Rex

So, this is Torigoth...

Nia
(to herself)

It hasn't changed a bit.

Pyra

Nia?

Nia

It's nothing.
OK then. I'll show you to an inn. Then I'm out of here.

♫

Wanted Nia

They don't get very far into Torigoth before passing by a noticeboard holding wanted posters of Jin and Malos. Nia then realizes something and backs up for a second look: a third wanted poster that would look like her if not for having Dromarch's face and almost talon-like fingers. She is not impressed.

Nia

What the bloody hell is this? Don't tell me this is meant to be ME?!

Dromarch

A remarkable likeness to say the least...

Nia
(repeat yourself I dare you)

Oi, did you say something?

Dromarch
(sweatdrop)

Ah, er, no. I fear they may have conflated our countenances, my lady.
How very awful.

Rex and Pyra have stepped back to see what's up. Nia is not having it.

Nia

Grrrr! Hisss!

She claws at the poster and shreds it to pieces. Rex is mortified.
There is a commotion ahead. Three Ardainian soldiers have a blue octohedron-like crystal sitting on a crate in front of them.

Sighall

Fie! Who has the courage to heed the Empire's call?

The camera flips to show he's speaking to a large Gormotti crowd. The party is barely visible in the background.

Sighall

Your strong heart today will build a strong Mor Ardain tomorrow!
Of course, you get more than a salary! Pension and benefits are included!
Distinguish yourself and you could even join the nobility!
For the glory of the Ardainian Empire and His Majesty Emperor Niall!
Come now! Who wants to be the hero of tomorrow?!

Rex

Hmm... What's the deal over there?

Nia

Driver recruitment.

Rex

Driver recruitment?

Nia

Recently, they've been recruiting Drivers from all over.

Dromarch

The pool of potentials is ever shrinking. They must have run out of candidates in the military.

Rex

What do you mean by "potentials"? I'm not sure I follow.

Nia

Just see for yourself.

A young man approaches the soldiers. Three younger kids surround him, all trying to stop him.

Neel

Don't do it, bro, it's too dangerous!

♫

The Past Revealed

Zelen

What will we do if something happens to you? Who'll look after us?

Morca

P-please...

He easily resists the young siblings' attempts.

Jac

I-I know it's dangerous.
But if I can b-become a Driver...

A much larger man comes up from behind them.

Bully

Outta the way, pipsqueak!

The bully makes a show of pushing all four of them down as he passes through. He approaches the blue crystal to Sighall's excitement.

Bully

All right, c'mon Blade boyo! Show me whatcha got! Hrooagh!

He grabs the crystal. The sound of a heartbeat plays.

Bully

A-a-a-aaaah!

He trembles uncontrollably.

Nia
(serves him right)

Yeah, he's done for.

Gramps

Indeed.

The crystal glows yellow.

Bully

Waaaah!

His eyes roll back and a burst of blue fluid comes out of him. He collapses.

Sighall

Oho, all bark and no bite! What a shame!

The other two Ardainians pick up the bully and carry him away.

Rex

Eurgh, what just happened? All that blood...

Calling what we saw "blood" raises many questions. We shall blame the game ratings boards. Gramps is looking all smug.

Nia

Couldn't handle the Core Crystal's power.

Dromarch

That's what happens when someone unqualified touches a Core Crystal.
Truly lamentable.

Rex

Wait, you need a qualification to be a Driver?

Gramps

Perhaps "aptitude" would be a better word.

Rex

Aptitude?

Sighall

Now, is there nobody else here...
ready to test their strength for the glory of the Empire?!

He spots Jac.

Sighall

Oh! How about you? What say you? Step forwards, sir, with bold heart!

Jac slowly approaches.

Morca

Noo!

Jac

Don't... Don't worry.
Your big bro's gonna be a Driver, and then we'll be set for life.

Three siblings

Don't do it!

Jac puts his hand on the Core Crystal.

Jac

Ah-aah-ah-aaaaaah!

Nia

There's your "aptitude".

The yellow light is now coming from within Jac. There is a flash as it flies up into the air. A spear appears in front of him, and he grabs it. The light lands behind him and forms into a bipedal shape, a dark-colored being with blue lights and a circular blue crystal in its chest - a Common Blade.

♫

Friendship

Jac

I...I did it!

The crowd cheers. The siblings dash in.

Neel

You did it!

Morca

I don't believe it!

Zelen

Oh wow!

Pyra steps forward a bit for a better look.

Rex

The Core Crystal turned into... a weapon?

Gramps

That is how Blades are born, Rex.

Rex

What? But when I touched Pyra's...

Nia

She's a special case. Pyra is the Aegis, remember?
So the usual rules don't apply.
All that business with sharing her life force... It's not exactly normal.

Rex

Wait, what does "the Aegis" even mean?

Gramps is stretching himself out like he's enjoying Rex not knowing things.

Rex

Jin and Malos... They called her that, too.

Nia

Dunno. All I know is that it's some kinda legendary Blade.
Why don't you just ask her yourself?
Let's go. No point sticking around for the enrollment ceremony and all that boring stuff.

Nia leads them off to the left. Rex has to get Pyra's attention before they follow.

Resonance Is a Mysterious Thing

The group is heading down a more back alley, with no one else around.

Rex

This whole thing with Core Crystals, touching them to create Blades...
It's pretty amazing when you think about it.

Pyra

We Blades start out formless, anchored to the world only by our Core Crystal.
Only the touch of a potential can imbue us with form and being.
And it is by those forms we come to be known.

Gramps

So you see, my boy, in some ways it is only the fated touch of a Driver
that allows the Blades to exist at all.

Rex

Wow... Why does it happen that way, though?

Gramps

Now that is something no one knows. It's just how it's always been.

Dromarch

Blades come in all shapes and sizes. Some human-shaped, some not.

Nia

Some people say the shape depends on the kinda person the Driver is.

Pyra

The resonance between Blade and Driver is a mysterious thing.

Rex thinks back to when he met Pyra by the tree in the dreamworld.

Rex

Pyra... She was crying when I met her.
Was she brought to life by someone once, just like a normal Blade...?
What is the Aegis, really?

Ardainian

Halt! Nobody move!

♫

Running

Three Ardainian soldiers appear behind the party. Another four arrive in front.

Gramps

Oh dear... Looks like imperial troops.

Nia

Great.

Rex

Hey, what's going on?

The captain of the soldiers, Padraig, answers.

Padraig

That fugitive in your company is an enemy of the state! A member of Torna!

Rex

Nia, a member of Torna?

Padraig

It's her all right. Gormotti Driver, white beast-form Blade.
She looks exactly like the wanted poster!

Rex

What wanted poster?

Padraig

See for yourself!

He pulls out a fresh copy.

Rex

Wow, it really does-

Nia

Oi, watch it!

Rex

Ah, uh, I mean, no way! This doesn't look anything like...
Wait, we've got no time for this!
Who cares if it looks just like her?

Nia

*hiss*

Padraig

Hmph. Now as for you...
You look like a Driver too. Registration number?

Rex

5...3...9...?

Padraig

Knock it off, you fool.
All new Drivers must register with Indol!
No number means you must be an illegal, unregistered Driver!

Rex

No, you don't get it!

Padraig

You're coming with me! We'll see what the consul has to say about this!

Nia

Rex, Dromarch and I are gonna make our move. Get ready to run.

Rex

We're not leaving without you.

Nia

This is our problem, not yours.

Rex

I'm pretty sure he wants to arrest all of us. So this is my problem, too!

Nia

Sheesh, you're a stubborn one, ain't you?

Rex

Gramps says the same thing.

Nia

OK, we go on three. We'll go left, you go right.

Rex

OK!

Pyra

Just give the word!

Nia

OK, let's do this!

Padraig
(not ready for this actually)

Y-you're going to resist? Seriously?

Nia

One...two...

Padraig

A-All right, men! We've got them outnumbered - move in and take them down!

♫

Battle!!

Nia

THREE!

Brighid, Jewel of Mor Ardain

The party is successfully holding off the authorities.

Padraig

They're...so strong!
Such strength from a measly two fighters... They're Drivers, all right!

The path away is cleared.

Nia

Rex! Now!

Rex

You got it!

They start to run, but a mass of blue fire appears in front of them.

♫

Incoming!

Rex

Wha-?! A wall made of fire?!

Female voice

Such a commotion.

The party turns around to see a new arrival: a tall woman in a blue-and-purple outfit and blue hair holding two swords.

Blue woman

Just when I thought I could enjoy a little peace and quiet.

Up close, it can be seen she has a flame-shaped Core Crystal, a glowing symbol on her forehead, and perpetually-closed eyes.

Padraig
(shaking in fear and awe)

L-Lady Brighid!

He manages to stand to attention as she walks by.

Rex

Brighid? Is she a Blade? Wh-where's her Driver?

Brighid

My Driver is otherwise engaged at present. I am here alone.

Rex

No...Driver?

Padraig

Ba ha ha!
Lady Brighid is the "Jewel of Mor Ardain"! The strongest Blade in the Empire!
Even alone, she's more than a match for you!
Lady Brighid, these miscreants are terrorists working for Torna.
Please lend me your power to bring them to justice!

Brighid
(really, now?)

Torna?

She looks at Pyra. Pyra is standing further away and does not seem as ready to fight back as the others.

Brighid

That emerald Core Crystal... Could it really be true?
Well, well.
Captain Padraig, you are not to kill them. Take these ones in alive.

She stances up.

Padraig

Roger! Men, bring the you-know-what!

Soldier

Sir!

The two soldiers next to Padraig hurry off.

Fire and Water

♫

Crossing Swords

Brighid

Hyagh!

Brighid shoots a fiery projectile.

Rex

Yaaah!

Rex does the same thing. The two shots collide and explode between them to no effect.

Rex

Wha-?! She- she repelled our attack!

Pyra

She's so...strong.

Gramps

And this is without a Driver...

Nia

Stop yammering! Just get her!

Nia and Dromarch leap towards Brighid. She doesn't move. Two yellow nets are fired past her. One of them slaps Dromarch.

Dromarch

Gah!

Nia

Dromarch!

The second net slaps Nia. The two land on the ground in cat burrito mode.

Nia

Ugh...Dromarch...

Padraig

This is an ether net!
Ba ha ha!
Let's see you use your precious Arts when you can't draw ether from the atmosphere!

Brighid

Even Blades have weaknesses. This is one such weakness.
Without the flow of ether, Blades are quite useless.

Rex

Nia! Dromarch!

Nia

Get outta here, Rex! Save yourself!

Rex

I'm not gonna do that! I can't just leave you here!

Nia

You've got your own mission! Just move it!

Rex

Yeah, but-

Nia

No buts! Go!

Gramps

Rex, we must withdraw for now! It's our only chance!

Rex

But-!

Brighid

You won't escape.

Brighid creates a circle of fire surrounding Rex and Pyra.

Gramps

Rex!

Rex

Ugh, dammit!

He hears the sound of something moving very fast.

Rex

Ah!

What looks like a small blue sphere of metal, with yellow eyes and a big open Pac-Man mouth, flies out from behind Rex and strikes a pipe above Brighid. The pipe breaks and water comes out, soaking Brighid.

Party

Waah!

Brighid

Ugh, water?!

The water extinguishes the fire wall and drenches the ground.

Rex

Now!

Rex

Pyra

Haaah! BURNING SWORD!

They send their combined fire attack at Brighid, which smacks her but doesn't visibly do much.

Brighid

Agh!

Rex

Pyra!

Pyra

Yes!

Rex finally decides to leave and runs, Pyra following.

Padraig

Don't let them escape! Get after them!

The two soldiers start to give chase.

Nia
(to herself)

That's right, Rex... Run, and never look back.

Brighid

To pull that off despite all this water...
So the legends of the Aegis were real.

Rex and Pyra reach what looks like some sort of storage area, with a bunch of pallets, bags, and barrels sitting around. They make to turn left.

Nopon voice

Hey hey!

They decide to humor the voice, and turn around. A panel on the opposite wall opens as a Nopon with orange fur leans out.

♫

A Nopon's Life

Nopon

This way, friends, come this way! Tora help you escape!

Rex

Who are you?

Now better visible, it can be seen that Tora is wearing mechanic-like gear, including goggles and a big wrench.

Tora

Quick, no time for explain!

Rex and Pyra decide to go with it, and head inside the offered doorway. Tora closes the entrance before the soliders arrive, who only see a blank wall, and so continue away. The group now finds themselves in an empty wooden room.

Rex

Thanks, you saved us. But I gotta ask...why?

Tora

No reason...

Rex

No reason?

Tora

Sorry, that not true.
Truth is, Tora not like those big bully soldiers.
Was thinking to test out shiny new Boom Biter on big bullies...
That's when Tora see friends running from them.
Boom Biter missed and hit water pipe, but results not so bad, hey?

Rex

Oh, so you shot the pipe?

Tora

That right!

Rex

And you're Tora. I'm Rex, and this is Pyra.

Pyra

It's so lovely to meet you!

Tora

Good to meeting! Mehehe...

Rex

Huh?

Tora

Ah... Actually, Tora have other reason for save you.

Rex

Which is?

Tora

Don't worry. Explain everything when get to house of Tora!
This way!

The Color "Emerald"

♫

Wanted Nia

Padraig is making his report to someone in a simple room with fancy furniture. The other person can be recognized as the Dughall that Bana was talking to at the start of the chapter.

Padraig

The boy and his Blade who seemed to be working with them got away...
But we apprehended the girl from the wanted poster, along with her Blade!
The town is once again safe for-

Dughall

Say, Padraig, do you remember what my orders were?

Padraig
(what'd I do wrong)

Sir?

Dughall
(between disappointed and angry)

I told you to capture the Blade with the emerald Core Crystal, did I not?
Do you recall me ever telling you to capture some little girl
with barely a bounty on her head?

Padraig

B-but sir, she's a member of Torna-

Dughall

I'll say it slowly for you, just so we're clear. Get. The Blade. With. The emerald-

Padraig

Um, Consul Dughall, sir?

Dughall
(threateningly)

What?

Padraig
(sheepishly)

I-I'm not exactly sure what color "emerald" is supposed to be...

Dughall
(losing it)

Agh! Give me strength! It's green, you idiot! Emerald is green!

He grabs a vase off the desk, conveniently the same color as Pyra's Core Crystal, and waves it in Padraig's face.

Dughall

Like this! Green! Get it, you clod?

Padraig

Ohhh, GREEN! I get it now. So emeralds are green, huh...

Dughall

You dunderhead! How many Blades do you see with green Core Crystals?
It's patently obvious! How do you mix THAT Blade up with some worthless cat monster?!

Padraig

Actually, sir, technically I believe that's a tiger, rather than a-

Dughall

Silence!

He bashes the butt of the vase into Padraig's helmeted face.

Padraig

Agh!

Padraig falls down. Someone else runs in through the unobstructed doorway.

Soldier

Consul!

Dughall

What is it? Haven't you heard of knocking?

Soldier

My apologies, sir! It's just that Lady Mòrag has...

Dughall

What?!

Soldier

Special Inquisitor Mòrag has just arrived from the motherland.

Dughall
(scared)

Already?!

Soldier

Her ship has just docked.

Dughall
(panic time)

Grkh, this... This cannot be happening!

Outside, a large Ardainian Titan ship flies low over the Cloud Sea. It dips into the sea itself at it slows down approaching Gormott. Once settled right next to Torigoth, the doors open and a single military woman steps out onto the dock.

Rex and Pyra have finished the short walk down the tunnel to Tora's actual "house", a sort of large treehouse on the underside of Gormott.

Rex

You live down here?

Tora

This just back door. Front entrance over there.

♫

Friendship

Rex

Makes sense...

Rex looks down through one of the unfinished walls.

Rex

Whoa! Is that the Cloud Sea down there? We're so high up!

Tora

Nice view, eh? Tora likes to just sit and watch Cloud Sea sometimes.

Pyra

You have a wonderful home.

Tora

Meheheh. Anyway, um... Rex-Rex...

Rex

...Rex-Rex?

Tora

Rex-Rex. Tora explain other reason I help you.
You see...Tora always wanted to make Driver friends.

Rex

Huh! Interested in Drivers, are you?

Tora

But of course!
Tora think it amazing how Driver and Blade join spirits together to make big power!
Tora really want to be sidekick of Rex-Rex!

Rex

Uh, you know my name is just Rex, right? One Rex, not two.

Tora

What is point?

Rex

Well, nothing, I guess. It just sounds a bit different from what I'm used to.

Tora

Doublename just show Tora's respect! Respect for great Driver!
Rex-Rex should be proud!

Rex

I'm not sure I've earned all that yet...
Oh, all right. You can call me Rex-Rex if it makes you happy.
But instead of all this sidekick stuff, can't we just be friends?

Tora
(better than expected)

Really?
Tora will be friend of Rex-Rex?! Hooray!

Tora starts to dance.

Rex

What a funny little guy.
Hey, Tora! Do you know much about this town?

The dancing stops.

Tora

Huh?

Rex

You wouldn't happen to know where the army takes prisoners, would you?

Pyra

Rex, you're not planning to...

Rex

We have to save Nia and Dromarch.

Gramps

I thought you'd say that.

Tora

Oh! You talk about Driver and Blade who were with Rex-Rex before Tora's daring rescue?

Rex

Yeah.

Tora

Mehmeh... Tora would have to ask around town for info like that.

He lets out a "hmmm".

Tora

Before we do anything, time for food!
All of today's running around make Tora hungry. Need food to help Rex-Rex!

Gramps

I'm a little peckish too.

Rex

Can't we eat later? I want to find Nia and Dromarch as soon as possible!

There's a grumbling sound.

Tora

Haha! Stomach of Rex-Rex tell different story!

Rex

I... I can't help it, can I?!

Pyra

Um, if it's all right with everyone, I could cook something?

Rex

Pyra? I didn't know you could cook!

Pyra

Hehe, well as long as fire is involved, I can do almost anything! Fry, steam, grill - you name it.

She makes a fireball in her hand for a moment.

Rex

Tora

Whoa!

Pyra

If you want ice cream, though... You might have to find someone else.

Rex

Well, you can't have everything.

Cooking with Pyra

The group remains in Tora's kitchen.

Pyra

Tora, do you have any ingredients I could work with?

Tora

Just what in the pantry there. Not much really. Tora sorry!

Gramps

It doesn't seem wise to go out and buy more supplies, so we'll just have to make do with what we have.

Pyra

Let's see what we've got, then.

Pyra roots through the open sacks of fruit and vegetables Tora has sitting around.

Pyra

Glitterspuds, Sumpkins... Oh, and here's an Oil Oyster and a single Meaty Carrot.
And Hot Oranges too! These aren't bad ingredients at all!

Tora

All foods that can be eaten with no cooking. That how Tora usually eat!

Rex

That's...a bit depressing.

Gramps

We aren't much better ourselves, you know!

Rex

I guess you're right...
So what do you think, Pyra? Can you make anything with this?

Pyra

Yes, I think this should be enough!
I'll just use the kitchen, OK?

Lady Mòrag and Dughall

Everyone is sitting around the table, enjoying Pyra's meal.

♫

Jump Towards the Morning Sun

Rex

Oh man! This is delicious!

Tora

Yum-yummy! So super very tasty!

Gramps

Simply exquisite!
I haven't eaten this well in 120 years!

Pyra

Glad you liked it!
It seems like I did OK... I was worried I'd have gotten a little rusty over the years.

Rex

It didn't taste rusty at all! Uh, I mean...

Tora

But Tora is curious. Pyra is fire-using Blade, yes?
When Tora broke that water pipe, Pyra could still make fire!

Gramps

Come to think of it, you're right. That Brighid, the imperial Blade...
She used fire abilities just like Pyra,
but the water seemed to douse much of her strength.

Rex

So...what are you saying?

Tora

This world full of elemental energy called ether, yes?
Ether come in forms like fire, water and wind.
While battling, Drivers and Blades both draw power from ether.
But fire not good with water.
Other Blade woman got splooshy with water, so fire powers all damp.

Rex

But Pyra and I were able to use our powers with no problem.

Gramps

Indeed. They were unaffected.

Tora

Why?

Pyra

Um, well, my powers don't come from fire.

Tora

Mehmeh?! If powers not fire, why look like flames?

Pyra
(not ready for this)

Th-that may be a little complicated to explain...

Tora
(very ready for this)

Go on then? Tora like complicated things a lot!

Pyra

Ah, well, u-um, I, it...

Rex

Knock it off, Tora. Can't you see you're making her uncomfortable?

Tora
(but!)

Meh...

Rex

Everyone has things they'd rather not talk about. Right?

Pyra

I'm sorry. I'm sure I'll be able to tell you about it soon enough.

Rex

Don't worry about it.
Right now, we need to think about how to rescue Nia.

Tora

First, we go around town and find all information we can!

Gramps

Hmm, yes. I daresay that we're all wanted criminals by this point.
Pyra sticks out like a sore thumb.

Pyra

I'm so sorry.

Tora

Don't worry friends! Tora has an idea!

♫

Misgivings

Over in the Ardainian zone, the military woman from earlier is met by Dughall, Padraig, and a few other soldiers.

Dughall
(overacting even more then usual)

Special Inquisitor Mòrag! To what do we owe this extreme pleasure?
Had we but heard of Your Grace's visit we could have prepared a suitable...

Mòrag

I don't stand on ceremony, Consul. I'd rather you just did your job.

Dughall

Y-your Grace?
Someone of your standing deserves to be treated as such!
You are His Majesty's representative!

Brighid becomes visible approaching in the background.

Dughall

Please permit us to lay on a meal befitting Your Grace.
Until then, we would be honored if-

Brighid

You made impressive time. I wasn't expecting you until tomorrow.

Dughall panics and babbles some more.

Dughall

L-Lady Brighid!

Mòrag

If we have found the Aegis then there is no time to waste.
But I fear the passage has taken its toll on our engines.

Dughall

The Aegis? H-how do you-?!

Mòrag

Is there a problem, Dughall?

Dughall

N-not at all, Your Grace.

Mòrag

Good. Now, you've captured a Driver from Torna.
I am going to speak with her.

Dughall

Wha-? Why do you want-

Mòrag
(the foot is down)

Dughall. I don't remember asking for your opinion.

Dughall

Y-yes, Your Grace! I'll take you to her right away!

The scene changes to Dughall's office. Mòrag has established superiority and takes the desk. Brighid, Dughall, Padraig, and the soldiers aurround it. Nia has been brought in. She glares at Brighid, who looks back.

Nia

Hmph.

Mòrag

So, you are the Torna ruffian.
I must say you look a little different from your poster.

A copy of the poster sits on the desk. Nia refuses to let it slide.

Nia

A LITTLE different?! Whoever drew that should be the one in jail!

Mòrag

Hah. Yes, I would be angry too.

Nia

You can drop the friendly act.

Mòrag

You won't name your friends?

Nia

My friends?
I'm not so sure I'd call those trigger-happy Torna goons "friends".

Mòrag

I see. I think we have our wires crossed here. I am not talking about Torna.

Nia
(legit confused)

Huh? You're not?

Mòrag

No. I was referring to your more recent traveling companions.
The Driver boy and his Blade.

Nia

Rex and Pyra?

Mòrag

Well. That was easy.

Nia
(played)

(Dammit!)

Mòrag smirks.

Back at Tora's house, Tora has procured a brown Gormotti-style cloak. While her hair sticking out might not pass, her chest is covered and her ears are hidden by the hood, which has its own stiff cat ears sticking up.

Pyra

This looks like it could actually work.

Rex

Good idea, Tora!

Tora

Right! Let's look for friends of Rex-Rex!

The Race to Find Nia

Main article: The Race to Find Nia#Dialogue

Fists of the Wind

During the above quest, the party inevitably winds up in Torigoth's main square, where the Driver recruitment was happening earlier.

Tora

Did Rex-Rex know? They recruiting over there for new Drivers.

Rex

Yeah, I saw that earlier when we first arrived in the city.

Tora

Rex-Rex should try too! Chance of success basically 100%!

Rex

I'm wanted by the Ardainian Empire right now, remember? It seems like a bad idea to make myself conspicuous...

Tora

Rex-Rex make good point...
Tora was just too curious to see what kind of Blade Rex-Rex awaken...

Rex

At any rate, I don't need to awaken a Blade, do I? I've already got Pyra.

Gramps

Come now, Rex. Don't tell me you thought Drivers could only bond with a single Blade!

Rex

What? Is that not right?

Pyra

Not at all. Many Drivers have more than one.

Gramps

With Nia gone, we're a bit short on numbers right now. We might not hold up all that well in a fight...
Perhaps it would actually be a good idea to get yourself a new Blade.
A new Blade opens up new possibilities in battle, after all.

Rex

Hmmmm...

Gramps

It would stop you from putting so much strain on Pyra, as well. Seems like a good thing all round, if you ask me.

Rex

Well, if Pyra doesn't mind, I guess it couldn't hurt to try.

Pyra

I don't have any objections. The more the merrier!

Tora

Then it settled!

Rex

The question is, where are we going to get ourselves a Core Crystal?

Gramps

Now that's one question I can answer!
I happen to have one stored away for just such an occasion.

Tora

Where Gramps hide Core Crystal with such small body...?

Gramps

The key to awakening a new Blade is to foster a powerful resonance with the Driver's spirit.
Focus your whole mind on the Core Crystal as you touch it.
And try to hold a clear picture in your mind of the Blade you wish to awaken.

Rex

I'm not sure I really understand, but I'll give it a try.

Pyra

I hope you awaken a wonderful Blade!

Gramps hands over an Unnamed Core Crystal. Rex resonates with it, and a Common Blade with wind-type Knuckle Claws appears.

Pyra

That looks like a good one!

Tora

Meh meh! Fur always stand on end whenever Tora see Driver resonate with crystal. So cool!

Rex

Hey, don't look at me like that, you're making me feel weird!
Well, looks like we've got a new recruit, anyway. Let's go and find out what happened to Nia!

Gramps

Rex... Not so fast!

Rex

Huh? What's up?

Gramps

Aren't you going to kit your new Blade out...?

He points out the nearby Core Chip place.

Gramps

You can tune up the weapon with a Core Chip from that smithy there.

Tora

If Rex-Rex never use Core Chip before then now very good time to start!

Pyra

You can really tell the difference between a Driver who uses Core Chips and one who doesn't...

Rex

I'm starting to understand...

Gramps

Now for the main topic...

Gramps pushes Rex over to the nearby Aux Core shop.

Gramps

That over there is an Aux Core Shop.
I don't suppose you had a lot of call to go in there before you became a Driver!

Rex

You're right about that...
I used to wonder what all that strange gear was for, though...

Gramps

Perhaps we should head over and give it a try, then!

He pushes Rex right into the shop.

Gramps

Aux Cores are just the thing for supplementing a Blade's power.

Tora

There all different types! Some boost defense, some make strong against insects, or stronger at night-time, meh!

Gramps

The number of Aux Cores you can equip varies from Blade to Blade, mind.

Rex

Interesting stuff...

Gramps

Now, this is the important part, so listen up.
Usually when you get an Aux Core, it's in an empty state. You won't boost your Blade with it empty!

Rex

OK. So how do you fix that then?

He looks at the ether furnace in the shop.

Rex

Huh... I see!
So this gizmo here makes Aux Cores usable...

Pyra

You catch on fast...

Gramps

That's right! This machine takes collectibles and raw Aux Cores and refines them into something useful!
Here's one you can have a go with. I've been saving it up for this very occasion!

Gramps produces a raw Critical Up II Aux Core.

Tora

Rex-Rex! Best not to think about where he stash it!

Gramps

Yes, Tora's right about that... It's not much good without collectibles, though... Here.

Gramps produces eight pieces of Deer Wood.

Tora

Meh meh! He really have a lot stashed away there...

Pyra

You're good to go, Rex! Refine it!

Rex

Got it!
And as soon as we're done, let's go and look for some info about Nia!

An Ironclad Plan

♫

A Portent Crawling Over

Having heard all the news about Nia - she's being held on the ship that Mòrag came in, and they're going to execute her - the party reconvenes in Tora's house.

Pyra

Nia and Dromarch, executed... It doesn't bear thinking about!

Gramps

But getting aboard that warship will be no mean feat.
We're going to need an ironclad plan.

Tora

Army port is under heavy guard...

A map of Torigoth sits on the table.

Rex

I guess we'll just have to mount a full-on attack!

Pyra

No, Rex! We can't put everyone in danger.

Rex

Right, sorry.

Pyra looks over the map.

Pyra

There!
This is one of the Grandarbor's roots, right?
If this map is correct, it goes all the way from the quay to the hull of the warship.
And here. It looks like some kind of cargo entrance. Could we sneak on that way?

Rex

Oh, right! No one'll spot us if we sneak in from below!

Tora

Security light around this entrance. At night, not even workers here.

Gramps

Looks like this is our only option.

Rex

Then it's a plan!

Tora
(evil laugh)

Mehehe.

Rex

Tora?

Tora

Tora have something to show you.

Tora opens the curtain to the other room that he'd not let the others into before. Inside is...well, the camera makes it hard to tell, but it might be some sort of humanoid robot.

Rex

What's this then...?

Tora

Nobody ever see this before. Secret of Tora!
An artificial Blade!

♫

Wanted Nia

Pyra

An artificial Blade?

Gramps

I can't believe it.

Tora

Tora have always wanted to be Driver of Blade.
But Tora... Tora has no potential to awaken Core Crystal.

Rex

How could you know that? Surely you just have to try, and-

He thinks about it for an extra split second and goes "Ohhh."

Rex

You did, didn't you?

Tora

Yes, one year ago, Tora applied to Driver recruitment man.

Gramps

Oh deary me.

A flashback plays of the bully exploding.

Pyra

Oh Tora, you mean you...?

A flashback plays of Tora lying down on the floor of his room, blood (like actual blood) pouring out of his nose like a fountain.

Tora

It was bad. Tora had nosebleed for three days!

Rex
(that ain't that bad)

Just a...nosebleed?

Tora

What you mean, "just"?! People die from loss of blood, you know?!

Rex
(still skeptical)

Yeah, but from a nosebleed?

Tora

Anyway, moving on...!

Rex

For a near-death experience, you're awfully casual about this...

Tora

ANYWAY! Back to Tora's Blade.
When complete, even no-potential Tora can be a Driver!

Gramps

This is simply incredible. You built this Blade from scratch, Tora?

Tora

Hm, it was started by Grampypon and Dadapon.
But Grampypon die, and Tora still not know where Dadapon go to...

Rex

Oh...

Tora

So Tora will finish Blade myself and become a Driver like always wanted!
Then Dadapon hear about Tora's success and come back home, yes?

Pyra
(a mix of impressed and "you poor fool")

Oh, Tora...

Gramps

By the by, Tora, this Blade...
As far as I can see, it looks complete. What is there left to do?

Tora

Mehehehe! All Tora have left to do is buy missing parts!
But Tora have no money at all!

Rex

Oh? Really?

Tora

Really.

Rex

Nothing? At all?

Tora

Not even one gold...

Rex

So you're asking for a loan?

Tora

Uhh, not...loan, hehe. Um, closer to... generous...donation!

Rex is unimpressed. Maybe this is the real reason Tora was looking for a Driver friend...

Gramps

Just like a Nopon. Always shrewd when it comes to gold!

♫

A Nopon's Life

Tora

B-b-but if Tora completes artificial Blade, combat capabilities will be big help on mission!

Rex

Well, yeah, if it works you may have a point...
So...how much exactly do you need?

Tora
(way too smug)

Oh...no more than 60,000 gold...?

Rex

Sixty thousand?! D'you want a kidney as well?

Pyra

Calm down, Rex. I think we owe Tora our help.
If it's just money he needs, I may be able to assist.

Rex

Assist? How, exactly?

Gramps floats down to in front of Rex.

Gramps

Nothing illegal, I hope!

Rex cuts off the last word by chopping him over the head. He falls to the floor.

Rex

Don't even joke, Gramps!

Pyra removes her right earring and holds it out.

Pyra

This is a natural crystal. It should fetch around 60,000.

Rex

No way! We can't let you sell that!

Pyra

But-

Gramps miraculously revives and comes back up to shoulder level.

Rex

No, it wouldn't be right! That's it, I'm paying for the parts myself!

Pyra replaces her earring.

Gramps

Very admirable.

Tora

Meh meh! Rex-Rex is too generous!

Rex

This Blade of yours had better be seriously useful, though, Tora!

Tora

Leave that to Tora!

Rex

Well, then, let's go, I guess!

Tora

Yippee!

The two of them run off.

Pyra

Will they really be OK?

Gramps

I suppose they'll have to be...

Artificial Blade Parts

The group is readying to leave.

Rex

So...what do you actually need to finish this artificial Blade?

Tora

One Perfect Range Sensor and three Bion Connectors!

Pyra

I don't think I've ever heard of either of those...

Tora

Perfect Range Sensor supplements function of eyes in artificial Blade.
Quite pricey item, but very important.

Gramps

And the Bion Connectors?

Tora

That have many uses, but mostly to prevent hat fall off.

Gramps

Would an ordinary piece of string not suffice...?

Pyra

So, um...where can we buy these items?

Tora

At Margia's Odds & Ends!
Is just off to the left after entering Torigoth city.

Gramps

I'm sure we must have walked past that area before.

Rex

All right! Let's go!

Main article: Artificial Blade Parts 1#Dialogue

Main article: Artificial Blade Parts 2#Dialogue

Wakey-wakey, Poppi!

Night has fallen and the weather is stormy. The party back at his house, Tora puts the finishing touches on his creation.

Tora

OK! All finished!

Rex

It's really complete?

Tora

Very complete!
Just need to apply energy charge to activate!

Gramps

Tora, our friends' execution draws near. There's no time to lose.
Make haste!

Tora

I know, I know! Okay artificial Blade, it's wakey-wakey time!

Tora reaches for the big lever.

Pyra
(interrupting)

That won't do, Tora!

Tora

W-what Tora do wrong?

Pyra

You can't keep calling her "artificial Blade"!
As her creator, the least you can do is give her a proper name.

Tora

Oh, um, well...
Actually, friends, Tora did think of name for her. Very good name.

Rex

Nice. Then I guess there's no problem.

Gramps

Well, why don't you introduce us, Tora!

Tora

Right away!

♫

A Portent Crawling Over

Tora

Now... Wakey-wakey!
Tora's very own Blade! Poppi!

He pushes up the lever. A bolt of lightning strikes the Torigoth windmill. Rex and Pyra look around in mild panic as the devices in the room emit some smoke. Tora cautiously steps over in front of the now clearly-seen Poppi. She's obviously robotic, with boxy metal parts everywhere, but with some clothes and a skin-toned face - a kind of alpha design of a young human girl. For a moment, nothing happens.

Tora

P-Poppi?

♫

A Nopon's Life

Poppi activates. In a wave of glitter and sparkles and flower petals, she strikes two poses and emits light like an 彡彡◦༄◦°˚°◦.¸¸◦°´ *•.¸♥ idol of maximum kawaii ♥¸.•**◦༄◦°˚°◦.¸¸彡彡.

Poppi α

★How may I be of service, Master?★

Rex, Pyra, and Gramps are o_o. Tora has dun goofed.

Tora

W-w-w-wait a minute!

He blocks the view and scampers back over to the big lever.

Tora

Ooh! Forget you see that! Tora must change the settings! Khm...

Having pulled the lever back down, Poppi has powered off.

Rex

The settings?

Tora types away at his console and laughs nervously.

Tora

Th-this time should be OK...
Second time go best! Powerrrr...on!

He pushes the lever. Another bolt of lightning conveniently strikes. The others look on with more restrained apprehension. This time, Poppi straightens up slowly to a generic stance and speaks in a flat monotone.

Poppi α

Greetings, Masterpon.

Tora

I...I did it!
Tora's masterpiece! World's first artificial Blade...Poppi!

Rex

Whoa!

Pyra

Incredible!

Gramps

That is really quite something.

Tora
(looking for validation)

Tora did good, huh? You impressed? Tora is a very big success?!

Rex

Absolutely! You're amazing, Tora!
Though I was pretty surprised before, when she was all...you know...

Tora

Forget about it! That not Tora's fault! Th-that was, um...
Grampypon! Grampypon Soosoo made settings!
Yes, definitely Grampypon's fault!

Poppi subtly glances at him because she knows the truth. Pyra is also doubtful.

Pyra

Are you sure, Tora?

Tora

Y-yes, Grampypon...yes...

Pyra glances off to the right with disappointment. Tora looks over there.

Tora
(oh no)

Mehmeh!

There's a closet that has opened, revealing several maid outfits. Tora sweats buckets under Pyra's disapproving gaze.

Pyra

Well, let's not dwell on that. Rex! Let's go rescue Nia and Dromarch!

Rex

No time to lose!

Tora
(embarrassed)

Mehmeh...

Poppi α

Anyway, my name Poppi. Poppi try hard to make Masterpon proud.

Meanwhile, Dughall is stewing in anger over Mòrag's unexpected arrival interrupting his plans.

Dughall

Grr...
That shrew thinks she owns the place, just because she curries favor with the Emperor...
If only I'd got the Aegis myself...
I could have returned home in triumph, or sold her to Bana for a tidy sum...
But it's not over. I refuse to let this place be the end of me!
I will not be left to rot in this flea-bitten backwater!
Captain Padraig!

Padraig's image immediately appears on the videophone.

Padraig

Uh, yessir!

♫

The Beginning of Darkness

Dughall

Double the number of guardsmen! Round up whoever you can find!

Brighid is listening in from outside the office.

Dughall

We're going to find that Aegis before Mòrag gets her paws on her.

Padraig

Sir! As you wish, sir!

The call ends.

Dughall

Watch and learn, Mòrag Ladair.

Brighid finds this interesting.

Tiger! Tiger! GO!

The group readies to leave again. Pyra won't be wearing the cloak disguise this time.

Tora

Before we leaving, Tora want to explain something to Rex-Rex and Poppi!

Poppi α

Explain what, Masterpon?

Tora turns to a person-sized machine with a screen, two buttons, and a lever.

Tora

It about this advanced gaming device!

Pyra

I did wonder what that thing was for. So it's for playing games?

Tora

Yes! Game is called Tiger! Tiger!
Is hidden gem that Grampypon make for Tora when Tora was littlepon!

Rex

It looks like it's seen better days...

Tora

Tora turned on power just now, so should be possible to play!
Rex-Rex! Give game a try!

Rex

Hmmmm...
It does sound kind of fun, but I wouldn't want to get hooked on a game while Nia needs rescuing...

Tora

Wait wait wait!
Playing this game can earn prizes! Special parts for power up Poppi!

Poppi α

Parts for Poppi?

Tora

Grampypon make this game in hopes that it reveal true purpose when Poppi finally complete!
So if friends think Poppi a bit weak, or just want more amazing power, play game and get new upgrade!

Rex

I...guess that makes sense. I'll give it a go, then.

Tora

That is wise decision!
Shall Tora explain basics? After all, Rex-Rex is a little wet behind ears...
Use directional buttons to move! Use A Button to attack!
So, that is basics. Tora let Rex-Rex figure out rest by Rex's self! Learning is best by doing, meh!
Tiger! Tiger! GO!

Rex (the player) boots up the game and takes stage 1 for a spin.

It's possible that Rex actually gets on the high-score list. "First try!"

Tora

Skills of Rex-Rex quite impressive.

Poppi α

Rex not pro salvager for nothing.

Rex

You think so...?

Pyra

I think your experiences salvaging really came in useful!

Rex

Not that I don't appreciate the compliments, but we should hurry and rescue Nia.

It is however much more likely that Rex fails. game sux no re 7.8/10 too much water

Tora

Rex-Rex not very good at games?

Rex

I...I can't help it, can I?! It was my first time playing!

Poppi α

Poppi think practice make perfect.

Rex

A-anyway, let's focus on Nia for now!

Rex

So, how are we going to get onto that Titan battleship where Nia's being held...?

Gramps

As luck would have it, the Cloud Sea looks to be ebbing just now. We had best aim for the root Pyra mentioned.

Tora

The root was stretchy-stretching just past Garagorm's Arch!
From here, is easiest to go up to top of stairs, cross bridge, then pass under gate, then you're at Garagorm's Arch!

Pyra

Will the Ardainian guards not spot us?

Tora

Area around Ardainian base heavily guarded, but up to Garagorm's Arch should be no problem!

Rex

All right. Let's head there for now!

Poppi α

Poppi will do best to help.

Quite the Impressive Titan

The party reaches the outskirts of Torigoth.

Tora

There is Titan warship!

They have a clear view of the Ardainian army's Titan.

Gramps

Mmm. Quite the impressive Titan.
Another sign that Mor Ardain is readying once more for war with Uraya.

Rex

Look! That root goes right to the ship, just like Pyra said.

There is indeed a long, oddly-straight piece of tree jutting out into the middle of nowhere beneath the Titan.

Tora

Yes yes!

Rex

We should be able to climb down over here. Let's go!

Pyra

OK!

Tora

Off we go!

Poppi α

Understood.

Lift Gonzalez if Necessary

The group reaches the end of the root. The Titan hangs overhead.

Rex

Looks pretty high.

There's a large entry port in the ship's hull directly above.

Rex

Gimme a moment.

Rex fires his anchor upwards, latching into the ship and easily pulling himself up. He gets onto the elevated floor and extends the anchor back down.

Rex

Pyra, you first.
I'll pull you up, so hold tight.

Rex is braced and ready. Pyra is clearly not thrilled with the idea. She cautiously steps onto the anchor. Rex discovers that he was not ready; he barely avoids being pulled down as he strains to recover from the sudden weight. Gramps escapes from his helmet.

♫

A Nopon's Life

Rex

Gh... So...heavy!

Pyra

Wh-what did you say?!

She steps off. With the weight suddenly gone, the anchor lashes back up and Rex is sent tumbling back.

Rex

Yow...

Gramps

Now look here, Rex. You can't just go and call a lady heavy.

Tora

Ooh, Rex-Rex a little tactless...

Pyra
(covering her face)

Sorry about that, I guess I was just surprised!

Rex

No no, it's not your fault, I-

Tora

She heavier than Tora for sure!
But that just mean Pyra grown to impressive height!

Poppi has been observing the situation silently the whole time. She starts to crouch down, produce a whirring noise, and emit grey smoke.

Tora

It is good thing! Pyra should be proud!

Poppi launches into the air on heel-mounted rockets, easily landing in the entrance with Rex.

Poppi α

Poppi pull Pyra up. Please grab again.

She descends the anchor. Pyra cautiously gets on it, still nervous. It starts to rise as Poppi pulls.

Rex

Niiiice, Poppi.

Poppi α

Poppi artificial Blade. This is...noooo problem.
Poppi could lift Gonzalez if necessary.

Pyra slowly ascends.

Feel Blade like Wave in Air

The party has been sneaking around through the battleship. Poppi stops them.

Poppi α

Masterpon, Poppi can feel there is a Blade in the vicinity.

Tora

But how can Poppi tell that?

Poppi α

Unclear. Poppi feel other Blade like wave in air.

Rex

Huh. I'm not sure I get it, but... maybe Dromarch is nearby!

Pyra

Let's try opening up some of these doors!

The scene switches to Dromarch, laying on the floor in a room somewhere. He senses something, so he gets up and approaches the door. The middle of the door starts to heat up and glow. He stares at this for probably too long and only just ducks before a hole is blown through and a jet of fire blasts into the room. The party is outside.

♫

Wanted Nia

Pyra

Umm...I didn't hurt anyone, did I?

Rex

Everyone check your eyebrows!

Pyra

I'm sorry! It's hard to judge the power sometimes...

Dromarch

Pyra! Rex!

Gramps

Dromarch! It's good to see you alive.

Tora

It very good!

Poppi α

See, Masterpon? There was a Blade here.

Dromarch

Master Titan and... Forgive me, but who are they?

The group updates Dromarch on the situation as they get him out of the room.

Rex

Dromarch, we don't have much time. Do you know where Nia is?

Dromarch

But of course. We are in resonance after all. I feel her presence.

Rex

Then let's go! We can't let her get executed!

Dromarch

Indeed. This way!

Take Care of the Guards

The team reaches a door with two guards flanking it.

Dromarch

No doubt about it, that's the place!

They immediately run towards it.

♫

Battle!!

Left guard

Who are you people?!

Right guard

They're the terrorist's friends!

Rex

We are her friends! But I won't let you call her a terrorist!

Behind Bars

♫

Elysium in the Dream

Nia is sitting on the floor of her cell. She thinks about a previous time this happened, in a room that looks just the same. Jin opens the door. He extends his hand, and she reaches for it. Back in the present, she hears fighting outside.

Nia

Ahh!

The door opens.

Nia

Jin?

No, it's Rex.

Rex

You all right, Nia?!

Nia
(wait, what?)

Rex, you...

Dromarch immediately steps in.

Dromarch

My lady. Apologies for my late arrival.

Nia

Don't mention it. I didn't think anyone was coming at all.

Rex

As if we'd leave you!
"Always help those who help you."
That's the second rule of the Salvager's Code!

He holds his hand out.

Nia

Well, that's you all over, ain't it.

She takes it and gets up.

Tora

Rex-Rex! Tora has found escape route! Hurry hurry!

Tora peeks around the doorframe.

Nia

A Nopon?

Dromarch

He has been of some assistance.

Rex

We made a new friend!

Nia

Uh, nice to meet ya.

Gramps

Well, I think we've overstayed our welcome here. Time to get moving!

Pyra, Poppi, and Gramps all peek in past the doorframe in a comedy stack. Nia isn't sure what to make of it.

Irrefutable Logic

The party reaches the ship's hangar. They spot the big exterior door.

Tora

Not much further to exit!

♫

The Beginning of Darkness

Dughall
(offscreen)

Not so fast, my dear intruders.

The doors open and in comes Dughall, followed by a very large mechanical-looking Blade, Dolmes.

Dughall

Letting a terrorist from Torna out of my grasp would make me look very bad indeed.
Ah, that emerald Core Crystal! You must be the Aegis!
Much as it pains me to admit it, it seems Mòrag was right on the money.

Rex

You know who Pyra is? Are you trying to capture her too, you ratbag?

Dughall

Now now, language. But of course.
The most powerful Blade in all of history, with the power to rend Alrest asunder?
Only a fool would know of that power and not seek to claim it!
And I am no fool!
Therefore, I will claim her as my own!
You cannot argue with such logic!

Poppi α

Flaw detected in final step of logic.

Nia

Sorry, pal, but you've done all the capturing you're gonna do today.

Dughall

Such impertinence for a dirty terrorist.

The party draws weapons.

Rex

Let's go, Pyra!

Pyra

Got it!

♫

Monster Surprised You

Hiding Behind His Blade

♫

Monster Surprised You

The player has probably noticed by this point that Dughall likes to run away a lot.

Rex

That coward... He's just hiding behind his Blade!

Dughall

What? Does common sense elude you? A Blade can regenerate from any injury!
Whereas if I die, my Blade will return to a useless core!

Nia

So it's OK to use them as a living shield?
You weasel. Even if they can regenerate, that doesn't mean Blades don't feel pain!

Dughall

Hahah, how cute. The fleabag thinks we should care about Blades' feelings.
Heeheehee, I wonder if YOU can feel pain!

Not Actually Gonna Execute Her

The team gets the better of Dughall and Dolmes. Dughall starts to flop in his typical extremely overacted way.

Dughall

How...? A mangy fleabag and a bunch of stinking kids...
My triumphant return...to Mor Ardain...with the Aegis...

He groans and finally stops moving. Dolmes was already still. Gramps goes "hmph".

Gramps

Out like a light.

Rex
(smug)

That's what he gets for trying to execute Nia.

Nia

What? He was trying to take me back to Mor Ardain.
Rex, this is a trap!

Rex

A trap? So they weren't actually gonna execute you?

Tora

No time! Talk later, Rex-Rex! We should escape!

Poppi α

Masterpon is right. Chance of reinforcements very high.

Gramps

Let us make haste. Getting out of town would be a good start!

They hustle towards the exit.

ULTRA Powerful

The party gets out of the ship and races through the Ardainian outpost, which is oddly lacking in any guardsmen, and the gate is just open. But then a wall of blue fire roars up, blocking the exit.

♫

Irritation

Pyra

These flames again!

Rex

It's her!

Both Mòrag and Brighid approach through the burning gate. Mòrag holds the swords now.

Nia

And with her Driver too, this time.

Dromarch

That's Mòrag, the Flamebringer!

Rex

Mòrag?

Dromarch

Special Inquisitor Mòrag of Mor Ardain.
The most powerful Driver in the Empire... and wielder of Brighid, the most powerful Blade.

Rex

So together they're, like... ULTRA powerful?!

Pyra

It looks like they were waiting for us.

Gramps

Yes indeed. I did feel like we got away a little too easily.

Mòrag

I don't know why I expected Dughall to slow you down at all.

Nia

It was you, right?
You're the one who spread the rumor that I was going to be executed, just to lure Rex and the others here!

Mòrag

You catch on quickly. Yes, you certainly proved useful.
However-

Nia

Rex and Pyra are the real prize.

Mòrag

Hah, not quite.
The emerald Core Crystal is the sign of the Aegis.
If that Blade is indeed the Aegis... then there's something I must do.

Nia

What do you mean?

Mòrag

The power to sunder Alrest itself...
I cannot allow that to happen again.

Rex

Pyra...destroyed the world? Don't be so stupid!

Mòrag

You mean you didn't know? Five hundred years ago, during the Aegis War...
The Aegis sank three continents to the Cloud Sea's bed.

Rex

Three Titans...destroyed?

Mòrag

I speak naught but historical fact.

Rex doesn't seem convinced. But Pyra is just looking down and mopey rather than trying to argue against it.

Rex

I'm onto you! You want to use Pyra as some kinda weapon!
We're not gonna let you do that!

Mòrag

That is precisely the kind of scenario that I mean to prevent.

Rex

And what if we resist?

Mòrag extends Brighid's swords into flaming whips and cracks them upon the ground. They proceed to hang curled in the air.

Mòrag

Then I will have to restrain you by force.

Rex

In that case, I'll make this nice and clear.

The party readies for battle.

Rex

You. Will.
Never! Take her!

♫

Incoming!

Mòrag

Hah. Then let's see if you have the strength to back up those words, boy!

Her Flames Hide Something Deeper

A blue fireball knocks the party in various directions. Rex sticks his sword in the ground to remain upright and growls.

Rex

What-?!

Mòrag leaps towards him. He manages to block the attack, but Pyra is pushed further away.

♫

Counterattack

Rex

Pyra!

Mòrag and Rex continue to duel. Mòrag eventually clips his sword arm, leaving it burning blue. Pyra recoils in pain for no apparent reason.

Mòrag

Stubborn child. Why don't you just give it up?

She swipes at him again. He blocks it with difficulty. Pyra acts like she also got hit. Rex pushes himself up off the ground.

Rex

Grrraaa!

He goes on the offensive, forcing Mòrag back. She's unconcerned.

Rex

You'll never get Pyra!
She's more than just the "Aegis" or some kinda weapon! She's a living being!

He backs up towards her and helps her get up.

Rex

Pyra has somewhere she needs to go.
And I'm gonna help her. I'm not gonna let you stand in her way!

He channels her power to shoot a continuous column of fire at Mòrag. She jabs a whipsword into its way, deflecting it into the wall of the compound.

Mòrag
(almost bored)

This is getting tiresome.
The power of the Aegis is formidable, but the Driver's skill betrays her...

A wall of blue fire sweeps in front of Mòrag, ending Rex's attack. Brighid approaches her.

Brighid

Stay vigilant, Mòrag. An unknown power lurks within this foe.

Mòrag

But of course.

Rex and Pyra are just kinda standing there, exhausted.

Mòrag

This Blade he calls Pyra... Your flames burn far stronger than hers.
But...her flames hide something deeper.

Rex
(to the others)

Is everyone...all right?

The rest of the party has just been lying around offscreen. Now they start to get up.

Nia

Hangin' in there!

Tora

Those two very strong!

Rex

I know. At this rate, we'll never... There has to be a way... Some kinda...

He remembers what happened the first time they face Brighid: she got doused with water.

Rex

She's a Fire Blade. We gotta find...water.

He looks around. Past all the blue fire surrounding them, he spots a water tower outside the outpost.

Rex

There!
Guys!
Are you ready to run?

Nia

Hmm? Sure!

Rex

Then follow me!

The party moves. Mòrag clears the blue fire in front of her to find that somehow the party is currently running through the exit completely unhindered. How did Brighid (and the cutscene devs) screw this one up?

Mòrag

Ah, there they are.

She gives chase. The party runs through the field outside the outpost.

Rex

Pyra! Can you manage a full-powered blast?!

Pyra

Yes! Maybe one or two!

Rex

That'll do!

The group splits and stops running. Mòrag finds that they've surrounded her. Rex holds up his sword.

Rex

Grrraaah!

Mòrag looks at him like "are you really trying this again".

Rex

Take this! Yaaah!

He shoots the fire just like before.

Mòrag

You're getting predictable, boy!

She easily catches the attack with her weapon and "throws" it off to the side. It conveniently strikes the water tower, leaving a yellow-hot chunk on each pillar. Rex has hustled backward.

Rex

Look who's talking!

He fires his anchor into the top of the water tower.

Rex

Poppi! Now!

Poppi α

Roger roger!

Poppi flies over to Rex's side. Mòrag figures it out.

Mòrag

The water tank? So that's their plan!

The structure has already buckled a fair bit on the weakened supports. Poppi starts to help Rex pull. Mòrag and Brighid start to run, but Pyra and Dromarch work together to push them back.

Rex

PULL!

The water tower bends over and falls. The full tank of water splashes down.

Mòrag

Ungh!

Brighid groans and folds.

Mòrag

Curses!

Rex and Pyra leap into the air above her.

Rex

Pyra

BURNING SWORD!

They hit the ground, causing the water to erupt into a blast of steam.

Everyone

Ahhh!

The steam eventually clears. Mòrag and Brighid are left standing on the flooded ground, the party having escaped.

Mòrag

I feel slighted.

Brighid

How so?

Mòrag

They actually held back against me in battle.

Brighid

You think that boy...?

Mòrag

Did you not see? He could have struck me with that blow, but he averted his aim.

Brighid
(hm, yes)

He did have good instincts, too...

Mòrag looks at the destroyed water tower and thinks about what Rex said.

Rex

"And I'm gonna help her. I'm not gonna let you stand in her way!"

Mòrag

The Aegis...
If she is traveling with that boy, perhaps it is worth letting them roam free for a while.

Brighid

You mean...?

Mòrag

We'll cross paths again. And when we do, we shall see.

It is now evening. The party has made it far from Torigoth. They stop running.

Pyra

I don't think they're following us.

Gramps

Perhaps we're safe for now.

Rex

You're right. We should get some rest. I can't go any further.

Tora

Ahh... Tora is pooped as well... *yawn*

Nia

See you later.

♫

Where We Used To Be

Nia turns and walks away. Rex was going to rest, but now he gets back up with an "Uh?".

Dromarch

We are grateful for all you've done. We wish you well on your travels.
Farewell.

He turns to follow her. Tora and Poppi are stunned.

Rex
(firmly)

I want to reach Elysium!

Nia

What?

She stops and turns back towards him.

Rex

I made a promise. I'm taking Pyra to Elysium.
It's just... She gave half of her life to save mine. I owe her.

Pyra

Rex-

Rex

But half the world seems to be after her.
With the Titans dying off, living space is running out...
That's gonna start wars. And people need weapons to fight wars.
That's why they want her.

Nia

...

Rex

If I can prove Elysium exists, maybe I can stop the war that's coming.
But... Fighting Mòrag taught me something.

Tora bored. Tora decide to step in front of Rex-Rex and do Nopon dance of no-more-bored.

Rex

I'm not strong enough. I can't do this alone
Nia - you're a Driver.

Rex shoves Tora out of the way.

Rex

We could really use a companion like you...
...if you wanted?

Nia

Elysium? Do you really believe in that myth, kid?

Rex

Well, Pyra told me that she was born there. Yet here she is.
So it must exist, right?

Nia

Your logic is almost as good as Dughall's.
Listen, Rex, I don't know if you're stupid or just too nice for your own good.
But what if Pyra's just lying?
What if this is all an act, and one day she turns round and stabs you in the back?

Rex

Pyra wouldn't do that!

Pyra
(deadpan)

Of course I wouldn't! I don't have a knife.

Nia

So...serious... She... Bwahaha!
An emerald Core Crystal is the sign of the Aegis, huh...?
Sure, why not. This could be interesting.

Rex
(yes!)

Really?

Dromarch
(are you sure?)

My lady!

Nia

I kinda wanna see this Elysium for myself now. Maybe it really does exist?

Rex

It does!

Nia
(turning to muttering to herself)

An endless field of green among the clouds, eh?
If the legends are true, even people like me...

Nia rejoins the group.
The party makes camp. Most of them are already asleep. Pyra is bandaging Rex's arm where Mòrag got it.

Rex

Ouch!

Pyra

Ah, I'm sorry. Did I wrap it too tightly?

Rex
(not fooling anyone)

It's fine! I'm fine! See? I can swing it like this and it doesn't even-
Owowow! Ugh!

♫

Friendship

Pyra

I knew it.

Rex

Thanks! I feel much better now.

Pyra

I'm sure that's Nia's poultice doing its job. Thanks.

Nia is mostly asleep, but flashes them a peace sign. Rex smiles back but then sees Pyra is starting to bandage her own arm.

Rex

Pyra, you're hurt too? Are you OK?

Pyra

I'm fine. It's just a scratch.

Rex

Hey, let me help.

He takes the bandage roll and does the job.

Pyra

Thank you, Rex.

Rex

No worries. Least I can do.
There, all done! How's that?

She looks it over.

Pyra

Looks good. Um, Rex?

She shifts closer to him and holds her arm next to his. Both their right arms, both bandaged.

Pyra

Look. They're the same.

Rex
(nervously)

Oh, uh, yeah. I guess they are.

Pyra giggles. The two of them watch the campfire burn, with everyone else now properly asleep.

Pyra

So beautiful.

Rex

Yeah, it really is.
I guess that's probably because you made it, Pyra...

Pyra

Huh?

Rex

Ahh! No, what? I didn't mean it like that!
You're just, erm, really good at making fires... That's all.

Pyra

It's what I do.

She produces a small flame in her hand and blows it away, casting embers into the sky.

Chapter Two:
Aptitude