Alex (Dragalia Lost)

Priest: Thank you for agreeing to escort me, Your Highness.
Euden: Think nothing of it. I would be remiss if I didn't do all I could to ensure the safety of an Ilian priest.
Elisanne: As a Paladyn, it is my honor to serve you as well, Father.
Priest: How kind of you both.
Alex: ...Wait. I sense someone in the shadows of that tree!
Assassins: *cackle* DIEEEE!
Elisanne: So you've come for the priest's life, heathen scum? Prepare yourselves!
Assassins: Aaargh!
Euden: Are you all right, Elisanne?
Elisanne: I am unharmed. And you, Father?
Priest: I'm fine as well. Although sadly, this confirms radicals in the Church are targeting me. How terrifying!
Euden: Don't worry. We'll keep you safe.
Elisanne: We are fortunate to have someone with your sharp senses at our side, Alex.
Alex: ......
Alex: (Something is wrong. It's like they were waiting to ambush us. Was our route leaked? Are we made? If we get attacked on a path this narrow...)

Assassin 3: Bwaaa ha ha! Lookit who showed up! They're fish in a barrel from here! I'll take out the Paladyn AND the prince, and walk outta here with my pockets stuffed with gold!
Alex: Face the consequences of your mistakes.
Assassin 3: Huh?
Euden: What happened, Alex? We were worried when we couldn't find you.
Elisanne: And who is THAT?!
Alex: An assassin who was lying in wait ahead. I fear our route has been leaked.
Euden: What?!
Alex: As none but those of our party knew the route, I fear there is a traitor in our midsts.
Everyone: Ah!
Alex: I heard this cur mention receiving a reward for killing both a prince and a Paladyn—which means the assassins aren't targeting the priest after all. Instead, this is a trap to kill Elisanne and Euden.
Elisanne: By Ilia!
Alex: And our traitor is none other than... the priest himself!
Priest: I assure you, child, I am no traitor!
Alex: Don't move! I know there is a knife concealed on your person.
Priest: Guh!
Alex: The sin of betrayal is great indeed. I hope you are ready to pay a heavy price.
Priest: The only traitor here is YOU!
Alex: Explain!
Priest: After all the kindness Father Nikolai showed you, you still chose to betray him! No amount of repentance is sufficient for your heinous crimes!
Alex: F-Father Nikolai?!
Priest: Filthy heathen! Bow down before the goddess's almighty power!
Alex: I... I don't...
Euden: Alex, watch out! Gah!
Alex: What have I done?!
Priest: Aaargh!
Elisanne: Are you all right, Your Highness?!
Euden: Just a scratch. I'll be fine.
Alex: This is all because you took the blow intended for me, Euden.
Euden: I would do the same for any friend. Er, but why didn't you just dodge so I didn't have to do that in the first place?
Alex: I...
Elisanne: Is it something to do with this Father Nikolai person?
Alex: I don't belong with you after all...
Euden: Tell us what's bothering you, Alex.
Alex: This problem is mine alone. It has naught to do with you.
Euden: Of course it has to do with us! We're friends!
Alex: I told you never to think of me as a friend. If you knew the horrors of my past, you would never call me by that name.
Elisanne: That is simply not true, Alex. Now tell us what happened! If the past is a burden to you, allow us to lighten your load.
Alex: Are you certain? Very well. Listen, then, as I tell you of the sins I will bear for the rest of my days.

Man: Guh... Gaah!
Alex: Hey, stay with me! Damn it, this wasn't supposed to happen...
Father Nikolai: Oh my, look at all this blood... I saw what you did to that man, you know.
Alex: Th-that wasn't meant to happen! I wasn't trying to...to...
Father Nikolai: Heh heh. Oh, I know he sought to commit violence against you. And yet, that does not change the sin you have committed in taking a life. The Church may be merciful, but it does not shelter murderers, you know.
Alex: But if I'm driven from the Church, I'll go back to being...
Father Nikolai: Ah, but I would not be a true man of the cloth if I did not offer a path to salvation to one so wretched. Help me, child! Aid me in punishing heretical followers of the Church!
Alex: Are you telling me to...?
Father Nikolai: Do not worry yourself on their behalf. Such hopeless fools deserve to atone with their very lives. Or do you think there is another path for a filthy sinner like yourself?
Alex: I... I... Aaaaargh!

Alex: ...I was scared of losing my place in the world, and so became the Church's puppet.
Elisanne: You were put in an impossible position and have nothing to feel guilty for.
Alex: Perhaps at first. But after a while, I started telling myself what I was doing was right in order to ESCAPE that guilt. This is all a result of the weakness and ugliness in my heart. It is my sin to bear.
Elisanne: But...
Alex: I came to this castle in the thought that even a wretched sinner like myself might have some small part to play. But now I know that was folly; one such as me has no place here.
Elisanne: I know how you must feel, Alex, but I assure you that is untrue. It pains me to see you suffer so!
Alex: ......
Euden: I think you should wait and think before making your decision, Alex. Take whatever time you need.
Alex: Hmm...
Elisanne: I shall help you think about it. Nay, we ALL shall!
Alex: Perhaps you are right.
Elisanne: Then...?
Alex: I will tarry here a while longer. And I will use that time to think about how to atone for my countless sins.

Alex: *pant* All I know is how to fight... so that is what I shall do!
Fiend: Graaagh!
Alex: I will defeat any fiend who threatens humanity! That is how I will atone!
Fiend: Roooooarrr!
Alex: Haaaah! *pant* *pant* But then...why?! Why is my head full of the cries of those I've killed?! Why do I see their fearful faces whenever I close my eyes?! I'm not the person I used to be anymore... So why does this still happen?!

Ranzal: All right, we got everything set!
Elisanne: Thank you all for doing this. I know Alex will appreciate it.
Notte: Hey, don't sweat it! She's one of us now.
Luca: Speak of the devil! ...Oh wait, I didn't mean that like it sounded.
Euden: Get the magic ready, Cleo. On three, okay? One...two...
Alex: I'm back, everyo—
Everyone: WELCOME TO THE CASTLE, ALEX!
Alex: ...What?
Cleo: I have prepared a feast in your honor.
Notte: And I picked these just for you!
Alex: ...Flowers?
Notte: Yep! And none of the sneezy kinds, either.
Alex: Elisanne? What's happening here?
Elisanne: It's a welcoming party for you— albeit a rather late one.
Euden: We were planning to hold it once you got used to this place.
Luca: But we planned it all in secret, 'cause surprises are AWESOME!
Alex: But I need to atone for—
Elisanne: You can atone for things later. Right now, the guest of honor must take her seat.
Alex: E-Elisanne, wai—
Euden: Let's make this a day to remember!

Alex: *sigh*
Euden: Getting some air?
Alex: Something like that. You know, even though the party is over, the excitement is yet to leave me. I don't remember the last time I felt this way.
Euden: I'm glad you had fun. Everyone has been really worried about you, you know?
Alex: Worried? About me?
Euden: Of course. You're fighting to atone for what you did, and we can all see how much you're suffering over it. We all wanted to take your mind off things, even if just for a day.
Alex: The people of this castle truly are odd. Why would you go so far to help one who used to be your enemy?
Euden: Because you're our friend now.
Alex: In truth, my life has been nothing BUT people helping me. Like...

Alex: (I'm s-so...c-cold... Can't...see... I think this is my end...)
Elisanne: Do not surrender yet!
Alex: Wh-who are you?
Elisanne: Where do you live? Where are your parents?
Alex: I don't live anywhere...and I don't even know what my parents look like.
Elisanne: Then I shall take you to the Church. They will look after you.
Alex: Why are you helping me?
Elisanne: Because Ilia would wish it. The Church teaches that every child is a blessing from the goddess, and that every life should be happy. And I will see that done!
Alex: I can be...happy?
Elisanne: You can and shall. Now take my hand.

Alex: She saved more than just my life. If she hadn't called out to me...
Euden: So that's how you two met, eh? Look, we're all fighting to help people. But what matters most when helping others isn't strength—it's kindness.
Alex: I...had not considered that. But I suppose you're right. Elisanne taught me as much. If I forget that kindness, I'm no different from the assassin I used to be.
Euden: Heh. You're looking a bit livelier now.
Alex: You have helped me to remember something very important.

Elisanne: ...Alex! It went that way!
Alex: Hraaah! Mission complete.
Villager: Thank you so much! We're a poor village, but we insist you take this.
Alex: I appreciate it.
Elisanne: I assume you will be donating that to the orphans again?
Alex: Of course. I shall atone for my actions by giving my battle earnings to the poor.
Elisanne: I'll do everything I can to assist you, Alex.
Alex: By the way, I was speaking with Euden recently. He said you were the one who proposed that welcoming party. And that you did so to cheer me up.
Elisanne: My apologies if I overstepped.
Alex: Not at all. I was just thinking how you've been helping me since the day we met. And I wanted to thank you for it.
Elisanne: There's no need for thanks between friends.
Alex: I'm happy you still think me worthy of that name.

Euden: Elly, have you seen Alex? I wanted to discuss our latest plan for taking care of those fiends.
Elisanne: She went to see that noble. The one who is looking after all those orphaned children.
Euden: Donating money again, I take it?
Elisanne: Indeed—and I must say, it really seems to be cheering her up considerably. It's as if she's begun a whole new life.

Alex: It's not much, but please take this. I hope it will help the children.
Noble: The children truly appreciate your constant visits. They're always asking when their big sister Alex is coming next! Ha ha!
Alex: I'm happy to hear that.
Girl: Umm...hello?
Noble: You know not to enter without permission; you will annoy our guest. Please, leave us.
Alex: I assure you, it is no bother. ...What is it, little girl?
Girl: Um...here.
Alex: A paper crane... Did you make this for me?
Girl: *nod*
Alex: Thank you. I will take good care of it.
Noble: All right, you gave it to her. Run along now. Goodness, look at the time! I fear I've kept you far too long.
Alex: Thank you for your consideration. I shall be going.
Noble: Whew! That took forever! But now... Heh heh heh.

Alex: I'm back, everyone!
Euden: You seem to be in high spirits.
Alex: A little girl made a paper crane for me!
Elisanne: They've really become fond of... Hold a moment. I think I see some writing on that crane.
Euden: Huh? ...Oh, you're right.
Elisanne: It appears the girl used a letter to make the crane.
Euden: Maybe she was too embarrassed to hand it over directly.
Alex: Heh. I'd best read it, then. ...By the goddess!
Euden: What's wrong, Alex?
Elisanne: Your Highness, look at the letter!
Euden: "Help Us"? ...What's going on here?

Man 1: Get a move on, kid!
Child: Let go! You're hurting me!
Man 2: There's yer money, pal. Hope it helps ya sleep easier at night.
Noble: I haven't the faintest idea what you are implying, sir. I'm merely finding a home for these poor, wretched urchins.
Child: Waaah! I'm scaaared!
Girl: Don't worry! That nice lady is going to come and save us.
Man 1: Bwaaa ha ha! Ain't no one comin' to save ya, kid. Now get movin' before— Graaah!
Noble: YOU!
Girl: You came back for us!
Alex: Everything is going to be fine now. Explain yourselves! What were you planning to do with these children?!
Man 2: Mind yer business!
Alex: That's enough from you! Haaaaah!
Noble: Goodness, but this is a pain! I'll have to use the back entrance.
Euden: You're not going anywhere.
Elisanne: There's no escape for you.
Noble: Ugh... Urrrgh...
Alex: Hah!
Man 2: Graaah!
Alex: Talk. Now.
Noble: M-mercy, please! I was just handing those children over to the Church like the priest ordered me to do!
Elisanne: Are you implying those two unconscious villains are servants of the Church?
Noble: I swear they are! I thought the children would be happier in the Church, which is why I—
Girl: Nuh-uh! I heard you earlier! We were being taken to the Church to become...um...assass-er-pins!
Alex: These children were to become assassins? I'll have your eyes for this, dog!
Noble: W-wait, stop! I'll tell you everything! Just spare my beautiful eyes! The priest I've been dealing with is eccentric even by Church standards. Several years ago, he threatened a child in his care and turned her into an assassin that he used to hunt down heretics.
Alex: Ah!
Noble: That assassin's exploits allowed the priest to make a name for himself, and he soon became addicted to fame and glory. Recently, he came to me in search of more children he could use in his scheme.
Euden: Could that first assassin actually be...
Alex: Me. ...This is all because of me.
Elisanne: This is truly terrible.

Elisanne: ...Well, we've captured the criminals and seen the children to safety. I think we can consider this a job well done.
Euden: And yet, we still haven't apprehended the priest who's behind all of this. ...Hmm? Where's Alex?
Elisanne: Wait, she couldn't...

Elisanne: Alex, you can't mean to go after that priest on your own!
Alex: Those children suffered because of me, and I WILL see that debt paid.
Euden: If you fight, you do so with us at your side.
Alex: No. This is my burden to bear.
Euden: A burden shared is a burden halved. We're coming—get used to it.
Elisanne: I also want to see that monster pay for what he did to you!
Alex: But this is... *sigh* Perhaps you're right. If I go straight after him in my current state, I'm likely to make a serious error in judgment. I'll only lose myself to anger and hate.
Elisanne: This priest sounds like a crafty fellow. If we go unprepared, we'll likely find ourselves walking into a trap.
Euden: It sounds like we should do some investigating first so we're ready. Are you all right with that, Alex?
Alex: I can wait—but his days are numbered.

Elisanne: So the monster who forced you to kill is in this very church?
Alex: That's right. He's trying to train a new generation of assassins as we speak.
Cleo: Unforgivable!
Ranzal: We'll open the way, Alex—you just give that damn priest the lesson of his life.
Alex: Thank you all for your help.
Euden: No thanks needed; we want to see this priest go down as badly as you do.
Luca: Uh, guys? Don't wanna freak anyone out here, but I thiiiink we're surrounded.
Euden: What?! Who's there?!
 ???: These are my assassins. Alex's successors, if you will.
Father Nikolai: They're not nearly the blade in the dark that she was...but they're capable enough.
Alex: I see I made one mistake when I turned my back on my former life... I never should have left a devil like you to roam free. But I will right that error here and now!
Father Nikolai: Aaaah ha ha! Me? A devil? Then what does that make YOU?!
Elisanne: She only did as she did because you forced her hand!
Father Nikolai: Now now, that's is simply not true! All I did was show Alex a path. She walked it herself—and gladly.
Cleo: We have not come here to bandy about semantics with you!
Father Nikolai: Ah, but the girl had SUCH natural talent...
Luca: Old man? You got three seconds to shut your yapper before we do it instead.
Father Nikolai: Come now! There's no need for threats. I've come here for an honest discussion. I am not evil—and despite being a murderer, neither is Alex. We merely hunt heretics in accordance with the will of the goddess. We carry out justice! Our deeds are pure— and Ilias's love for them is without bounds!
Alex: Are you going somewhere with this?
Father Nikolai: Return to me, my dear Alex! Hunt heretics at my side once more! That is the only way for someone with your bloody hands to live an honest life. Without the just cause the goddess's name provides for your deeds, you're merely a common killer—nay, a beast!
Ranzal: Say, Alex? I know I said I was just gonna open the way, but I take it back. I'm just gonna introduce this guy's face to my fist for a sec if ya don't mind.
Alex: ......
Ranzal: Uh, Alex?
Father Nikolai: Aaaah ha ha! Very good, Alex! A beast has no need for independent thought. A beast just needs to do as it is told—it needs to kill! THAT is how you will find happiness. Now return to me!
Alex: The children you're trying to raise into a new generation of assassins are orphans. Did you choose them because you thought such people more likely to obey you? Just like when I feared I would be driven out of the Church?
Father Nikolai: ......
Alex: Well, I'm not like that any more. I have a home. I BELONG.
Father Nikolai: *sigh* It seems this conversation is going nowhere fast. The day is yours, my loyal warriors. Leave none alive!
Assassins: Yes, sir!
Luca: He's gonna take off! What a jerk!
Alex: Father, wait!
Assassin: You're not going anywhere!
Elisanne: Haaaah!
Assassin: Ugh! D-damn you!
Euden: Follow Elly, everyone!
Elisanne: Don't let him get away, Alex!
Cleo: We'll handle the situation here!
Ranzal: Knock that chump senseless!
Alex: But...
Euden: Go!
Alex: ...Thank you.

Father Nikolai: They'll never follow me this far. Hmph! That foolish woman made a grave error by refusing my offer. She must truly be regretting it now... if corpses can feel regret! Aaah ha ha!
Alex: You're not killing me—OR my friends.
Father Nikolai: Wh-where did you come from?!
Alex: How ironic that the skills you taught me should prove useful in tracking you down.
Father Nikolai: Curses! Why didn't I bring at least one of my assassins as a bodyguard?!
Alex: It's time to answer for your crimes.
Father Nikolai: S-stay away... Stay away from me!
Alex: And you were so confident earlier! Perhaps you finally understand how it feels to be the hunted rather than the hunter.
Father Nikolai: You're here to kill me... You're here to KILL me! Of course you are, you murderer! No matter how you try to pretend otherwise, you're nothing but a bloodthirsty beast at your core!
Alex: I wouldn't be so sure of that. Haaaah!
Father Nikolai: EEEEEEEEEEEK!

Euden: Alex!
Alex: I'm glad to see you all safe.
Euden: Looks like you found the priest.
Luca: He ain't movin'. Like, at all. Didja actually...?
Alex: He's just unconscious. I was going to knock him out with the flat of my blade, but he fainted before I could.
Ranzal: Check out how scared he looks! What a chump! Bwaaa ha ha ha!
Cleo: I'm guessing this experience will be enough to deter his evil ways.
Elisanne: Shall we return home, Alex?
Alex: I would like nothing more. Could I have a moment, everyone?
Euden: What is it?
Alex: What happened today made me realize something. When I decided to help orphans, I thought of two ways to do so. The first was to help someone who was already undertaking that task. And the second was to do it myself. I decided there was only so much a woman like me could do, and quickly abandoned the second option. But now I've changed my mind. So...will you help me?
Euden: I think you know the answer to that.
Everyone: Yeah!
Alex: I'm so very glad to have met you all...

Younger Sister: *sniff* I'm hungry...
Elder Brother: Wait here. I'll get food. O-okay. I'm gonna do this... You there! Gimme all your money! ...Huh? Where'd they go?!
Alex: Looking for me?
Elder Brother: Aaah!
Alex: You should stop pretending to be a thief.
Elder Brother: I'm not pretending! I'm serious!
Alex: Where are your parents?
Elder Brother: We don't have any!
Alex: ...We? Ah. I see. You're not alone. Well, go round up whoever is with you and bring them along.
Elder Brother: Are you gonna turn us in?!
Alex: No. I have something else in mind.
Elder Brother: Huh?

Younger Sister: Whooooa... This place is huge!
Elder Brother: Where are we?
Alex: This is my friend's castle.
Younger Sister: Ooh! I smell something yummy!
Cleo: Have you found more children, Alex?
Alex: Yes, and I think they're extra hungry.
Cleo: I'll get to work right away.
Elder Brother: What are you doing?
Alex: We're making food for children like you who have nowhere to go.
Cleo: There's more where this came from, so eat hearty.
Younger Sister: *munch* Sooo good!
Elder Brother: Yeah, it IS good!
Ranzal: Aw, hell yeah! Look at all the grub!
Luca: Get in my belly, food!
Euden: Uh oh! It's the greedy fiends, Ranzal and Luca! Let's get 'em!
Children: Yeeeah!
Ranzal & Luca: They're too strong! They got us! Noooo!
Elder Brother: What are those weirdos doing?
Alex: Playing with some children who live at the local orphanage.
Girl: Heeeeeey!
Alex: Oh! You're the girl who gave me that paper crane. I'm glad to see you're doing well.
Girl: I made you another one!
Alex: Is this also made from a letter?
Girl: Hee hee! Don't read it until I'm gone, 'kay? It's embarrassing.
Alex: I'll look forward to it. Say, why don't you go play with the other children now that you're here?
Girl: 'Kay. Thanks, lady!
Younger Sister: Yaaaaay! Come on, let's go play!
Elder Brother: H-hey! Don't pull me!
Alex: Ha ha!
Elisanne: The orphanage's matron has come to see you, Alex.
Orphanage Matron: Thank you so much for always playing with the children.
Alex: I'm happy to help. But there is something I wanted to talk to you about...
Girl and Her Sister: Hee hee hee!
Alex: Can I speak to you for a moment?
Elder Brother: Sure.
Alex: If you have nowhere else to go, why not stay at the orphanage? I spoke to the matron earlier, and she agreed to take you both in.
Younger Sister: So we don't need to be cold anymore? Yaaaaaaaaay!
Elder Brother: You sure this isn't a trick? They aren't just gonna use us?
Alex: This orphanage genuinely cares about the children in their charge. I made sure of that personally. But if anything or anyone ever DOES upset you, you can return to the castle. I'll always be willing to help.
Younger Sister: Thank you!
Elder Brother: Why are you doing all this?
Alex: A long time ago, a friend said something that stuck with me. "Every child is a blessing from the goddess, and every life should be happy." That includes you.
Elder Brother: ......

Girl: Byeee!
Siblings: Byeee!
Ranzal: Woof! Playin' with these rugrats is harder than I thought.
Luca: But it was also super fun! Right, Euden?
Euden: Heh. It sure was.
Cleo: Although it was hard to tell whether you or the orphans were the more childish.
Elisanne: Alex? If I may ask, what did the paper crane message have to say?
Alex: "Thank you."
Euden: Well, that's sweet. You're going to keep trying to help children, I take it?
Alex: Of course. There are many out there in the world who have no home of their own. I'll do everything I can to help them— and in doing so, I will atone for the bloody sins of my past. That will be my life from now on.

Girl: I got you a flower, Miss Alex!
Alex: Heh. Thank you, child.
Alex: (I never would have thought back then I might enjoy such peaceful days.)
Alex: (My past is a bloodsoaked one, and such happiness is frankly more than I deserve. And yet, I pray it lasts without end.)
 ???: Gosh-a-rooty, just LOOK at your face! You've got a smile as sweet as a slice of pumpkin pie, darling!
 ???: Out on a picnic with the kiddos from the orphanage, eh? Well, lemme join you!
Alex: Dorothy?!
Girl: Thank you for telling me where I could find the flowers earlier, Miss Dorothy!
Dorothy: You are so darn welcome, sweetie buns! But you better skedaddle now—I hear your big brother's looking for you.
Girl: Huh? What for?
Alex: He's got an important errand for you. Hurry up, now! Run like the dickens!
Girl: Okay! Byeeeee!
Alex: What are you doing here?
Dorothy: The director asked me to check up on you. Word on the wind is that you've decided to leave our bloody little profession.
Alex: The same director who is employed by a perditionist sect to hunt heretics?
Dorothy: Don't look so shocked, darling! After all, this is the director who taught BOTH of us the ways of the killing arts.
Alex: And as I have abandoned said arts, the director means nothing to me.
Dorothy: So you're quiting the assassin game just like that? Are you SURE that's what your sweet little heart is telling you to do?
Alex: I do not lie to myself.
Dorothy: Honey, please! You were NEVER more radiant than when you were dragging a blade across some poor mark's throat.
Dorothy: It gave me goosebumps each time I saw those cold, merciless eyes of yours—and I know you enjoyed it, too!
Alex: Never! I took no joy from the work!
Dorothy: Oh sweetie, you're never gonna be at peace if you keep lying to yourself! Listen, I know it's hard, but some folks just have a certain skill set where they shine.
Dorothy: And yours isn't being the Grand Paladyn's right hand OR playing nanny to a bunch of moppets. You belong with us—in the world of cut throats and stopped hearts!
Alex: Where I belong is for me to decide. There is no need to concern yourself with my future decisions.
Dorothy: Honey, that is a stone-cold thing to say. Well, I suppose there's nothing for me to do now but visit that little flower girl who came by earlier and—
Alex: You will do no such thing!
Dorothy: Aaah ha ha! Oh darling, look at your face! Just a joke there, sweetie—little feather- ruffler from one professional to another.
Dorothy: Still, it WAS nice to see the beast inside you flare to life once more!
Girl: Well, that was weird! My brother said he wasn't looking for me at all.
Girl: Huh? What's wrong, Miss Alex? Your face looks all scary.
Alex: ...Nothing, child. Nothing at all.

Gala Elisanne: I am to give a ceremonial prayer and speech in front of THIS many people? I can feel my stomach tensing already...
Gala Alex: And to think you'll be speaking alongside Archbishop Magnus! Clearly, being the Grand Paladyn is no mean task.
Gala Elisanne: He feels that our standing side-by-side as equals will show both perditionists and conservatives that compromise is possible.
Gala Alex: Some may not take kindly to the notion of compromise between the two factions.
Gala Elisanne: I am aware the plan carries risks. Regardless, there is something I wish to convey:
Gala Elisanne: Namely, the notion that even if our ideas are different, we can still come to an understanding with each other.
Priest: The ceremony is about to begin, Grand Paladyn Elisanne.
Gala Alex: As we discussed, I'll keep an eye on the venue from a distance and apprehend any suspicious individuals right away.
Gala Alex: Hold nothing back—preach freely and without fear.
Gala Elisanne: It is particularly reassuring knowing that you have become my personal guard. And might I say, you are looking rather impressive at the moment.
Gala Alex: These clothes serve as proof that I am your protector, while the white hood attests to the vow I swore to never again be stained by blood.
Gala Elisanne: I was not merely speaking of your appearance. But in any case, I am off.
Gala Elisanne: In this land which once knew calamity, we would offer up a prayer together.
Archbishop Magnus: We pray that we may not be visited by the same tragedies that once befell us, and also for a new era of eternal peace.
Gala Alex: Looks like the ceremony has started. Hmm? Wait, who is...?
Gala Alex: Dorothy!
Gala Alex: Dammit, I lost sight of her! What is she even doing here?!
Gala Alex: Explosions! At the venue?!
Man: Archbishop Magnus, you are a traitor who would take the side of the hated conservatives! May you be consigned to an eternity in the hellfires!
Gala Elisanne: That's a perditionist adherent—and he's got some sort of magical implement! WATCH OUT, ALL OF YOU!
Gala Elisanne: Hrgh... You... Haaaaah!
Templar: He dropped the device! Seize him, quickly!
Gala Alex: Are you all right, Elly?!
Gala Elisanne: Yes, it's n-nothing... Hrk!
Priest: The Grand Paladyn is gravely wounded! We must see to it at once!
Gala Alex: Damnation! If only I'd not been so far from my post...
Templar: You there! Where did you get a magical implement of such deadliness?!
Man: That woman...gave it to me. Alex gave it to me!
Gala Alex: How do you know my name, cur?!
Man: She sought the assassination! I only did as I was bade!
Gala Alex: These are lies of the basest sort!
Man: Then perhaps you can explain why you were stationed so far from the venue if you knew nothing of what was to come!
Templar: Hmm... You WERE a good distance from your post at the time of the blast, Alex.
Gala Alex: That is because I was pursuing a suspicious individual!
Templar: And what became of this "individual"?
Gala Alex: ...They escaped.
Templar: I fear that is a weak tale at best.
Templar: Alex, personal guard to the Grand Paladyn! I am hereby arresting you under suspicion of attempted assassination!
Gala Alex: No! You have this all wrong!

Templar: It is taking some time to question the suspect, so you must remain in the guardroom for the time being.
Templar: And so you are aware, we have guards posted outside the window; I recommend you do not even think about escape.
Gala Alex: They think me the ringleader of an assassination! How has it come to this?
Dorothy: *cough* Goodness, but it's dusty in here! I swear, good help is so hard to find...
Gala Alex: Dorothy!
Dorothy: Don't start squawking like that, darling, or you'll alert every guard for miles!
Gala Alex: Why are you here?
Dorothy: Oh, just to make a little apology. Seems like you're only in this pickle because you were chasing after little ol' me during the ceremony.
Dorothy: You may not believe this, but I was only there to see for myself what sort of work you do now that you've hung up your little throat-slitters.
Dorothy: Anyway, I'm just sorry as all get-out!
Gala Alex: This state of affairs is not your doing, so you can save your apology.
Dorothy: Well, that's good to—oh, heck! I plumb near forgot to mention it!
Dorothy: Not to be the bearer of ill news, but that Grand Paladyn friend of yours looks to be in quite the precarious situation.
Gala Alex: Explain yourself!
Dorothy: Well, I went to check on her before coming here, and the poor thing was doubled over in pain and BEGGING for help.
Gala Alex: Elisanne, no!
Dorothy: Say, that gives me a dilly of an idea: let's go see her! With my help, you'll be able to creep by the guard undetected.
Gala Alex: I would give anything to help Elisanne, but if I slip away, the suspicion upon me will only grow more intense.
Dorothy: Honey, she was looking REAL bad. Poor thing might kick the farm any second now—can you live with yourself if you don't take this chance to say good-bye?
Gala Alex: Fie, but this is an impossible choice! What should I do...?
Dorothy: ...Alex! Over here!
Gala Alex: We managed to slip away unnoticed. Thank Ilia for this incoming fog.
Dorothy: The local types are all holed up inside, what with the explosions and all—but ain't that just a stroke of luck for us!
Gala Alex: Yes, because it means we can make as much noise as we like without suspicion. ...Doesn't it, Dorothy?
Dorothy: Honey, are you really pointing that pigsticker of yours in MY direction?!
Gala Alex: Inducing a person to kill a target without dirtying your own hands is one of your specialties, is it not?
Dorothy: Oh, darling, you have this ALL wrong! Also, hate to mention it, but the longer you point that sword at me, the more likely it is that your friend...you know? Dies alone?
Gala Alex: Your story about Elisanne rang false on too many levels, Dorothy. She would not succumb to such a wound, nor would she allow even a whimper to escape her lips.
Gala Alex: You lied to me.
Dorothy: ......
Gala Alex: You tried to kill the archbishop and frame me for it in order to have revenge for my deigning to leave a former life behind.
Dorothy: Oh, honey, you are SO good! Tell me, how long have you known?
Gala Alex: From the moment you appeared in the guardroom. I know you, Dorothy, and I know you never could resist laughing in the face of someone you framed.
Gala Alex: But had I made a fuss then and there, it would've gotten the Templars involved.
Dorothy: So you pretended to believe me until you had a chance to question me alone! Oh, darling, you are just the BEST!
Dorothy: Here I was, all ready to kill you for believing my absurd story, and you've gone and turned the tables! I KNEW the beast was still alive in you somewhere!
Dorothy: Oh, but I'm afraid I can't quite put a plus on that A grade of yours. See, honey, there's still one flaw in your deduction.
Gala Alex: And what would that be?
Dorothy: I had no intention of assassinating the archbishop—I just knew the Grand Paladyn would risk her life in order to protect him.
Gala Alex: But that would mean your real target is...
Dorothy: Yes indeed-y! Your little pal, Elisanne. Afraid I'm under some VERY strict orders to see that she takes the ol' dirt nap.
Gala Alex: Orders from who?!
Dorothy: Now honey, you know I can't tell you that! But I will give you one piece of advice: abandon Elisanne now, before all of this starts to turn TRULY ugly.
Dorothy: After all, she holds the key to perdition.
Gala Alex: The what?!
Templar 2: ...Alex should be around here! Find her!
Gala Alex: Blast! The Templars are here!
Dorothy: Ta-ta, Alex! Oh, and don't worry—I'll come by and see you again REAL soon.
Gala Alex: WAIT!
Gala Alex: Damn it all! I was hoping to capture her and find out the truth behind all of this!
Templar 1: Look there, on the ground! It's a bloody dagger!
Templar 2: Observe the peculiar shape of the blade. There can be no doubt this is the murder weapon used to kill the perpetrator of the assassination attempt.
Gala Alex: Damn and damn again! Dorothy must have killed the man to ensure his silence!
Templar 2: Alex clearly cast the dagger aside here. Find her at once, or none of us will ever be fit to bear the name of Templar again!
Gala Alex: I've no wish to cross blades with the Templars. Time to make good my escape!
Gala Alex: *huff* *puff* I should have eluded my pursuers by now, but I cannot hope to keep running away forever.
Gala Alex: Dorothy is sure to target Elisanne again, and yet the Templars would rather die than listen to anything I have to say.
Gala Alex: It will only make trouble for my comrades if I return to the Halidom, so I'll need to capture Dorothy on my own. Ah, but she's a tricky one, and no mistake.
Gala Alex: Which means the only way to save Elly is to expose the client who requested the assassination in the first place—and in so doing drag the truth into the light.
Gala Alex: And my clue to finding the client is...
Dorothy: After all, she holds the key to perdition.
Gala Alex: Common sense dictates the "key to perdition" is connected to perditionists, which means it's time for that man and myself to have a little chat.
Father Nikolai: Ho, friend! I am a traveling man of the cloth—pray bless me with your charity.
Traveler: Sorry, Father, but we're barely scraping by as it is. Try someone else.
Father Nikolai: Rrrgh! May they burn in the fires of purgatory! Damned impious wretches!
Father Nikolai: *sigh* To think I was once so close to the position of archbishop and now find myself reduced to this paltry existence.
Father Nikolai: This is all Alex's fault!
Father Nikolai: Ah! Perhaps that person there will take some pity on a poor old man of the cloth. Ho, friend! I am a traveling... Y-YOU!

Gala Alex: And you say the man who will know about the key to perdition is in this town?
Father Nikolai: M-my position among perditionists is but a lowly one, so I can't tell you a thing about the key—but he is sure to know!
Father Nikolai: I'll lead you to him! No tricks! Just please don't kill me!
Gala Alex: I have said nothing about killing you. ...It appears I truly put some fear into you last time.
Father Nikolai: Th-there he is! Right there!
Elder: You're still getting better, so be careful not to push yourself too hard.
Boy: I won't. Bye, Grandpa!
Gala Alex: Excuse me, but are you Klaus, the former librarian of the Ilian Curia Archives?
Klaus: Yes, though I'm well retired at this point. And who might you be, miss?
Gala Alex: I am Alex, personal guard of the Grand Paladyn, and I come with questions.
Klaus: The Church, is it? Hmm. I suppose that means you'll be asking about the Scrolls of Perdition.
Klaus: *sigh* All I want to do is enjoy what few years I have left, but those blasted things seem determined to prevent it.
Gala Alex: I have no interest in the scrolls. Instead, I wish to know of the "key to perdition."
Klaus: Begone from here!
Gala Alex: Please! I must know!
Klaus: I know not where you came to learn of that foul notion, but I'll not speak of it again!
Klaus: The key to perdition is a truth most cruel, not a thing for idle curiosity! Now begone from this place and never return!
Gala Alex: I am afraid I cannot do that; I have a friend to protect.
Klaus: ...Explain yourself.
Gala Alex: My friend's life is in danger because she has something to do with the key to perdition.
Gala Alex: And I would know the truth, that I might be able to cut her free of such oppression. Now tell me what you know, I beg of you!
Klaus: What is the name of this friend?
Gala Alex: Elisanne.
Klaus: Ah, I see.
Klaus: The tale you would hear is not one to be told in the open. Come into my home.
Gala Alex: Thank you, sir.
Father Nikolai: W-well enough! Seeing as how my duty is fulfilled, I'll just take my leave...
Klaus: Now then. You are aware of the Scrolls of Perdition, yes?
Gala Alex: They are ancient documents that state, among other things, that the Other is the offspring of the Goddess Ilia.
Klaus: Indeed—and that interpretation threw the Church into disarray. However, that trouble is nothing compared to what would happen if the complete document were discovered.
Gala Alex: What complete document?
Klaus: The Scrolls of Perdition are but a portion of a larger text—one that has been kept hidden away from the world.
Gala Alex: WHAT?!
Klaus: This document evidently records a truth beyond the kinship of Ilia and the Other— one which could upset the very foundations of the world.
Klaus: Afraid of what such a truth would mean, those who discovered the Scrolls kept a portion of them and sealed away the rest.
Gala Alex: So what, then, is the key to perdition?
Klaus: It is that which will release the seal on the remaining portion of the texts.
Klaus: But this leaves questions yet unanswered, including the location of the full document and what, exactly, the key is.
Klaus: However, the method for obtaining the key has been passed down to a select few.
Klaus: Apparently, the key can be obtained in exchange for the life of one maiden. And that maiden's name is...
Gala Alex: Not Elisanne!
Klaus: She is likely not even aware of the cruel reality to which she has been burdened.
Gala Alex: Why her?!
Klaus: I do not know.
Klaus: However, so long as there are those who would seek the remaining portion of the Scrolls of Perdition, this Elisanne's life will remain in grave danger.
Gala Alex: I cannot believe it...
Klaus: That is as much as I can say, child. I would suggest you hurry to your friend.
Klaus: Though the truth she has been burdened with may be cruel, a friend who cares for her might still mean her salvation.
Klaus: ...Ah! Perhaps HE is the one who is targeting the maiden Elisanne! I must inform the young lady at once.
Gala Alex: Back when I was an assassin, I went after her as I was commanded.
Gala Elisanne: Would you PLEASE listen? I have no quarrel with you!
Gala Alex: I care not. Now hold still and prepare to die.
Gala Alex: Between my indignation at her and my ignorance of the burden she bore...
Gala Alex: Oh, Elisanne. I am so sorry.
Klaus: Aaaagh!
Gala Alex: Klaus!
Klaus: Nnngh...
Gala Alex: By Ilia, these wounds are so deep... Who did this to you?!
Klaus: T-take this...
Gala Alex: A diary?
Klaus: Day 28... Month of the Frostwyrm...
Gala Alex: No! Stay strong, Klaus! Fight!
Boy: It was raining too much to play, Grandpa, so I... Huh? Who're you?
Gala Alex: Are you Klaus's grandson? Er, listen... This here...
Boy: Why is Grandpa all bloody?
Gala Alex: Hold, child. Let me expla—
Boy: M-murder! MURDER! HEEEEELP!
Voice from Outside: Guards! Guards, help! Come at once!
Gala Alex: Hnnngh!
Boy: Stop! Give him back!
Father Nikolai: And with that, my promise to her is complete...
Father Nikolai: Ah! Perhaps that person there will take some pity on a poor old man of a cloth. Ho, friend! I am a traveling... Y-YOU!
Dorothy: You rose so far in the world with the director's help, and now look at you. Well, THIS is your lucky day, honeybun!
Dorothy: That fool Alex is going to come to you seeking a certain bit of information.
Dorothy: When she does, I want you to take her to the former librarian of the Ilian Curia Archives. And when there's a chance, you'll go to the man and...
Father Nikolai: Oh, what a frame job I did to Alex! This is certain to guarantee me a fat reward from the director.
Father Nikolai: I get my revenge AND I'll be able to regain my former status!
Father Nikolai: This is proof I am loved by the goddess! O Ilia, I love you as well!
Dorothy: Well, ain't that just sweet as sugar?
Father Nikolai: Gurgh... Wh-why...?
Dorothy: A murderer isn't worthy to receive the Goddess's blessing.
Dorothy: And now to put the finishing touch on this grand show. Time to see her!

Bounty Hunter: Cor, lookit that poster! Cute face for such a wicked woman, 'innit?
Gala Alex: On a more essential subject, do you know how I might get to the town where Pilika Cathedral is located?
Bounty Hunter: Pilika? Sure. Yer gonna wanna make straight up the northern 'ighway.
Bounty Hunter: Blimey, that's a 'efty purse for one lady. If only I coulds... Eh? Say, who was that bird what I was just talkin' to?!
Gala Alex: Things have become quite difficult of late, but I must reach the cathedral regardless.
Gala Alex: In the former librarian's diary, one of the entries is about a very particular person.
Gala Alex: In exchange for healing the librarian's grandchild, this person learned how to obtain the key to perdition.
Gala Elisanne: You are an old friend of Alex?
Dorothy: I sure am, sugar! See, between the time my folks cast me out and my adoptive parents picked me up, I lived a cold, hard life on the streets.
Dorothy: That's when Alex and I became thick as... Well, I hate to say THIEVES, so let's just say thick as sweet cream instead!
Gala Elisanne: And yet, this is the first I've heard of you. Well enough then, Dorothy. Tell me, what brings you to me this day?
Dorothy: I've come bearing a request for you. Seeing as how you once saved Alex, I think it's the kind of thing that ONLY you are gonna be able to pull off.
Dorothy: I need you to put a stop to Alex's quest for revenge.
Gala Elisanne: I assume you refer to the attempted assassination and subsequent murders?
Dorothy: The injured parties are all connected to the Scrolls of Perdition, yes? And I know what the Church had poor Alex do back in her former, uglier days.
Dorothy: Poor old Alex could never forgive the perditionists who mistreated her so.
Gala Elisanne: I disagree. Alex found a new way to live, and swore to never again tread down the path of vengeance.
Dorothy: Oh, honey. I'm afraid there's a former— and I mean VERY former—priest named Nikolai who would disagree with that.
Gala Elisanne: Are you saying she killed him?!
Dorothy: She was seen at his side when he died. Folks say he begged for his life to the very end, but... Well, it didn't work out.
Gala Elisanne: I cannot believe this...
Dorothy: Oh, sweetie, I'm so sorry. Sometimes it's really hard to see the evil that swims beneath the surface of a girl, isn't it?
Dorothy: All of us have a beast inside us that we do our best to keep tucked away.
Gala Elisanne: Supposing for a moment that you are correct and she is plotting revenge. Where would we find her now?
Dorothy: My adoptive Templar father had an idea about that, actually.
Dorothy: Right now, she's headed for...

Gala Alex: Strange. I was on my guard for Templars keeping watch, but there's no sign of them. I wonder if...
Gala Alex: Huh? Who's there?!
Gala Elisanne: So her information was accurate.
Gala Alex: Elisanne?! Why are you here?!
Gala Elisanne: I heard that you were targeting Archbishop Magnus yet again, this time at a certain cathedral.
Gala Alex: I don't want to involve you in this, Elly. Go back to the Halidom while you can.
Gala Elisanne: Not until I know the truth.
Gala Alex: It was the archbishop who was behind the bombing of the prayer ceremony. He plots at your assassination.
Gala Elisanne: But was the attempt not made on Archbishop Magnus himself?
Gala Alex: That was a ruse—he knew duty would cause you to sacrifice your life for his own.
Gala Elisanne: And what possible motive could he have? He was the man who sought to bring the two sides of the Church together, so why have me killed instead?
Gala Alex: Well, you see...
Klaus: She is likely not even aware of the cruel reality to which she has been burdened.
Gala Alex: I...I am not certain. But I AM certain that the archbishop is using a former associate of mine—an assassin—to end your life.
Gala Alex: He used this same assassin to frame me for multiple crimes—and unless I miss my guess, she is here as we speak snickering at the situation in which I find myself.
Gala Elisanne: How deplorable, Alex, that you would try to trick me with such a feeble tale.
Gala Alex: Then you do not believe me?!
Gala Elisanne: Only a child could believe such fancy! Your hatred for the perditionists has clearly twisted you in both mind and soul.
Gala Elisanne: I...I thought you were my friend.
Gala Alex: I AM your friend, Elly!
Gala Alex: Don't you see? I'm trying to protect you!
Gala Elisanne: I'll not be used as a tool for your revenge! And if you do not stand down now, I will be forced to stop you myself.
Gala Elisanne: By my honor as Grand Paladyn, I will see this evil ended.
Gala Alex: I should have known you would turn your weapon on me one day!
Gala Alex: Once you decide you're in the right, you are filled with unearned confidence! It's just like when you abandoned me in order to flee the Church!
Gala Elisanne: Please, Alex. Stand down now. Let not any more sins be tallied on your already bulging ledger.
Gala Alex: It is YOU who must stand down, Grand Paladyn Elisanne.
Gala Elisanne: You break my heart, Alex. But in that case... Haaaah!
Gala Alex: Elisanne!
Gala Elisanne: Go, Alex! Go before I can stay my hand no longer and end your life myself!
Gala Alex: Then do it, if you can!
Together: Haaaah!
Gala Elisanne: Hrk! A-Alex...
Gala Alex: No... Elisanne, no! I didn't want this!
Gala Alex: Open your eyes, Elly! Open them! ...NOOOOOOO!

Gala Elisanne: Hrk! A-Alex...
Gala Alex: No... Elisanne, no! I didn't want this!
Gala Alex: Open your eyes, Elly! Open them! ...NOOOOOOO!
Dorothy: Honey, I'm so PROUD of you! Look how you struck down your friend there! You really are a beast at heart.
Gala Alex: THIS is why you framed me, Dorothy!
Gala Alex: You inspired doubt in Elisanne and goaded her into fighting me so I would do your dirty work and kill her!
Dorothy: Well, sure—but I ALSO did it so you would realize you belong back with us in the world of long knives and short lives!
Gala Alex: Dastard!
Dorothy: Honey, honey! You're mad, I get it. But really, I just set the table here. You—and you alone—are responsible for the actions you took after that.
Dorothy: I mean, are you really going to go back to tousling some moppet's hair with the same hands that took a friend's life?
Gala Alex: N-no! I...
 ???: Yes, my child. Yes. Take the sword which so recently claimed your friend's blood and wield it for the world. This is the finest tribute you can pay the Grand Paladyn.
Gala Alex: Archbishop Magnus!
Archbishop Magnus: Thanks to you, I can now obtain the key to perdition and use it to bring peace to all of our adherents.
Gala Alex: I thought you meant to bring that about through reconciliation with the conservative faction!
Archbishop Magnus: Such was indeed my intention at first. However, I realized it was pointless to try and persuade those conservatives, slaves to existing values that they are.
Archbishop Magnus: Thus, I have opted to change tack. Instead, I would make known the truth of our world, and in so doing upend their value system from its very foundations.
Gala Alex: THAT'S why you killed Elisanne?!
Archbishop Magnus: All was done in service to true harmony. However, even with the truth staring them square in the face, I suppose there are some who cannot surrender their values.
Archbishop Magnus: Those who go so far in their foolishness are naught but dead weight to be cut away. But strength is required to purge them— strength like that wielded by an assassin.
Dorothy: Come back to us, honey bunny. WE'RE the ones who really need you!
Gala Alex: Twice did Elisanne show me the way, and then my comrades at the Halidom helped me forge a new life altogether.
Gala Alex: My past may be drenched in blood, but I walk alongside them now on a path as bright as the sun. THIS is the life I would choose for myself—not yours!
Dorothy: I never expected you of all people to be so lovey and gross, sweetie. It is VERY disappointing.
Archbishop Magnus: I have a new request for you, Dorothy. The fool before you is an obstacle to true harmony. Do purge her with all haste.
Dorothy: You heard the man, darling—time to drown this place in a sea of red!
Gala Alex: Hrk! Such a strong attack!
Dorothy: Hey, this is the first time we've fought! I bet you thought I'd be all weak and pretty just because I'm so smart, huh?
Dorothy: Eee hee! Eeeeeee hee hee hee!
Gala Alex: *pant*
Dorothy: Aw, are you tired from your fight earlier? C'mon, honey, get that rear in gear and make this FUN for me already!
Gala Alex: It's true that you might be more than I can handle right now...
Gala Alex: But you're not more than WE can handle.
Dorothy: Hold it! You're...
Dorothy: Darnit, I KNEW you were tricksey! How in the name of cake are YOU alive? I saw Alex cut you down!
Gala Alex: Just a small bit of mummery to get you where we wanted you, I'm afraid.
Gala Elisanne: I was convinced of Alex's innocence from the moment I stepped foot in this place. And that being so, I turned my focus on the assassin who set me on this path.
Gala Elisanne: I knew you would follow me to ensure the deed was done, and so kept up the ruse in order to lower your guard.
Gala Alex: And I knew right away that Elisanne believed me, just as I knew that our crossing blades was mere show.
Dorothy: Okay, time the heck out! There's no WAY the two of you improvised all that based on the vague little conversation you had!
Gala Alex: Friends need little more than a vague conversation to know the truth.
Dorothy: AAAAARGH! I can't believe I was set up by a couple of starry-eyed fools prattling about "friendship" and "love" and...and... Oooo, it makes me wanna PUKE!
Dorothy: This is not gonna happen! I'M the one who laughs at the end! Me! Dorothy! MEEEEEE!
Dorothy: I AM NOT GONNA BE TRICKED BY A COUPLE OF DO-GOODER CHUMPS!
Together: HAAAAAH!
Dorothy: Dammit!
Gala Alex: *cough* A smoke bomb!
Dorothy: You may have sent me packing today, but this is NOT over!
Dorothy: I'm gonna smoosh this "friendship" of yours until frosting squirts everywhere, and I'm gonna laugh in your faces while I do it!
Gala Alex: Ugh! She got away again!
Gala Elisanne: Let her go. We've a more important matter to deal with at the moment.
Archbishop Magnus: ......
Gala Elisanne: I heard everything, Archbishop Magnus, and now you will accept the judgment you so richly deserve.
Archbishop Magnus: I will allow myself to be apprehended, but do not think this means I have resigned myself to failure.
Archbishop Magnus: For I—and I alone—am the agent of the great will...

Girl: I got you a flower, Miss Elly!
Gala Elisanne: It's beautiful. Thank you.
Gala Alex: I have returned to the daily life I desire.
Gala Elisanne: You have been cleared of all charges. There is no need to worry further.
Gala Elisanne: Still, I wonder about the key to perdition the archbishop spoke of, and how it connects to the attempt on my life.
Gala Alex: Yes, it's so very strange... Er, and speaking of things I do not understand, there's one other matter I wished to ask about.
Gala Alex: How could you be so certain? About my innocence, I mean. You seemed to know immediately.
Gala Elisanne: Your hood was white.
Gala Elisanne: You said your white hood was proof of the vow you swore to never again be stained by blood, did you not?
Gala Alex: Heh. I see.
Girl: Hey, there's prettier flowers over there! Let's go pick 'em together!
Gala Elisanne: We should have a contest to see who can pick the most. On your mark... Get set... GO!
Gala Alex: Goddess willing, this happiness will continue forever.
Templar: Forgive me for interrupting your outing, Alex.
Gala Alex: You were one of the knights pursuing me.
Templar: I was—and I wish to apologize for my rudeness the other day. But further, I've a matter I want to notify you of.
Templar: During questioning, the former Archbishop Magnus took his own life.
Gala Alex: Truly?!
Templar: He was found stabbed in a room that was locked from the inside. It is the only possible explanation.
Templar: We had hoped to question him in regards to the key to perdition, but now it seems that truth will remain ever shrouded in the gloom of darkness.
Gala Alex: This was no suicide—it was the work of the director silencing a loose end.
Templar: What did you say?
Gala Alex: ...Nothing. Thank you for telling me this. I will go and inform Elisanne at once.
Gala Alex: The old librarian said as much: So long as there are those who covet the rest of the Scrolls of Perdition, Elisanne's life will be in terrible danger.
Gala Alex: But no matter how thorny the path...
Gala Elisanne: Alex! This way!
Gala Alex: I WILL safeguard my friend.

Luca: Inner tube prepped and ready!
Ranzal: Barbecue's all loaded up to go, too! Grillmaster Ranzal's gonna open y'all a portal to the meat dimension!
Alex: Going on vacation, I take it?
Elisanne: Aren't you going to join us, Alex? It's sure to be a good time.
Alex: I... I'm just not sure I have any business cavorting around like that.
Elisanne: You're not that girl who used to live in the darkness anymore. Show yourself grace.
Alex: ...You know what? You're right.
Alex: I think I WILL go and have some summer fun with you all this year.
Alex: (Elisanne's right. I'm not who I used to be. Surely I can loosen up at least a little.)
Alex: (Here's to a fun-filled getaway with my dear friend—the one who pulled me back into the light!)

Tourist: Eee! Alex!
Tourist: Whoa, I've heard about her!
Tourist: I saw you, Alex! You were AMAZING!
Summer Alex: (Hrk... So much for a relaxing trip!)
Summer Alex: (I guess that incident brought down a little too much attention...)

Summer Alex: ...Huh? Help with an event?
Summer Elisanne: A contest that Verica once participated in, to be specific.
Summer Verica: That's right. It's a pageant of sorts to determine whose beauty rivals that of the sea itself.
Summer Verica: I won't be joining in this time around, but I figured I might know some of the entrants. When I went to say hello, though, I could tell something was amiss.
Summer Verica: Evidently, one of the people running the event suddenly took ill, and now they're shorthanded.
Summer Verica: I wish I could help, but my schedule is full up with my fortune-telling work.
Summer Alex: I see. I'd be happy to pitch in, then.
Summer Alex: So all I need to do is distribute ballots to each spectator, and then collect them? Sounds simple enough.

Host: And now, at long last, we come to the climactic finale of our grand contest! Dear spectators and distinguished lookers- on, are your ballots ready?!
Summer Alex: Time to get to work. ...Everyone, you can just hand your ballots to me, and—
Spectators: Aaaaagh! There're fiends coming from the ocean!
Summer Alex: What?!
Female Entrants: Eeeeek! Somebody heeelp!
Summer Alex: Haaah!
Summer Alex: Tch. Couldn't finish it off with just my self-defense knife.
Summer Alex: But if one strike isn't enough...then I'll land another! Hrah! Yah! Hiiiyah!
Spectators: ...!
Host: Ladies and gentlemen, are you seeing this?! A staffer of this very contest has gallantly laid low the aquatic menace!
Summer Alex: Uh... Why's there so much commotion?
Host: As elegant as a swan...if swans carried knives! She fought with grace and splendor, leaving us all utterly bewitched!
Host: Thank you, Alex! The contest is saved because of you!
Summer Alex: Oh, er... I didn't do anything special.
Host: Now, then! With the heat of enthusiasm still burning in our hearts, we continue our contest! Everyone, if you would be so kind as to prepare your votes?
Summer Alex: Now I can finally do my job. Everyone, please hand me your ballots.
Spectators: You were AWESOME! Thank you, Alex!
Summer Alex: Um, you're welcome...
Spectators: You're amazing! Team Alex all the way!
Summer Alex: Since when do I have a fan club?!

Host: At long last, vote tabulation is COMPLETE! And now, the news you've ALL been waiting for.
Host: Why, what's this?! The honored first-place winner of our contest this year iiiiis...
Host: ALEEEEEX!
Summer Alex: WHAT?! I didn't even enter!
Host: You certainly did not, but the people have spoken! The sight of you bravely facing off against evil was a spectacle worthy of our great contest!
Host: Well then, how about this? We'll treat the second-place winner as the champion, and confer a special bonus prize to the illustrious Alex!
Summer Alex: This is all happening so fast.

Summer Alex: I'm turning red from all these people staring at me...
Summer Elisanne: You're quite the local celebrity, Alex.
Summer Alex: Can't say I'm enjoying it. I've never been in the spotlight quite like this before.
Summer Ranzal: Ain't no wonder. For an assassin who lived her life lurkin' in the shadows, this kinda heat must be unbearable.
Tourist: Hey, Alex! Can I have your autograph?
Summer Alex: My AUTOGRAPH?!
Summer Alex: Hrk... I'm sorry! I can't take this anymore!
Summer Elisanne: Whoa! Alex?!

Summer Alex: (How am I supposed to deal with all this?)
Summer Alex: (So much for my peaceful vacation with Elisanne...)

Summer Alex: *sigh* I've had it up to here with all this attention. I just need to hide a little until all the hubbub dies down.
Summer Alex: Urgh, but on the other hand, I came here to have a vacation with Elisanne...
Summer Alex: I guess I'll have to find someplace we can relax without people hounding us.

Gaudy Man: Well, well. Ain't she the one who swept this year's contest? Looks like she's off sulking by her lonesome. Heh. Lucky me.

Gaudy Man: Hey there. What's got your goat?
Summer Alex: ...Can I help you?
Gaudy Man: I couldn't help but notice that frown on your beautiful face. You get separated from your friends?
Summer Alex: No. I wanted some alone time, actually.
Gaudy Man: Aw, where's the fun in that? How's about I take you someplace nice instead?
Gaudy Man: I know a good spot that's perfectly hidden away from prying eyes. Heh heh heh!
Summer Alex: (He seems fairly knowledgeable.)
Summer Alex: (I may as well take him up on his offer and see if it's somewhere I can take Elisanne.)
Summer Alex: I'd appreciate that. Lead the way.
Gaudy Man: Atta girl! Follow me.

Gaudy Man: Here we are. Head right on inside, milady!
Summer Alex: ...What am I looking at?
Woman: Stop, please!
Vulgar Man: Hee hee hee! Kinda your fault for blindly following me, lady.
Woman: Only because you told me my friends were here!
Vulgar Man: Did I? Can't say I remember. Ha ha ha!
Summer Alex: You are about to be in a world of hurt if you don't leave her alone. Back off.
Gaudy Man: Come on now, don't be like that. I bet you and I could get along reeeal nicely.
Summer Alex: What the hell are you talking about?
Gaudy Man: Oh, y'know! A little of this, a little of that...
Summer Elisanne: Alex!
Summer Alex: Elisanne?! What are you doing here?
Summer Elisanne: I couldn't find you, and then I saw you leave with that suspicious-looking man.
Summer Elisanne: I was worried you might've gotten mixed up with some smooth-talking pickup artist...and I was right.
Summer Alex: A pickup what, now?
Summer Elisanne: Men who sweet-talk women into sharing their company. If it ended there, that'd be one thing...
Summer Elisanne: But among them are vile cowards who try to force women to do things they don't want to do—like these men here.
Summer Alex: Now I see what's happening here. We're dealing with some grade-A scoundrels.
Summer Alex: Perfect. That means I don't have to pull my punches. PREPARE YOURSELVES!
Men:

Nina: Welcome! Right this way, ladies!
Summer Amane: Oh, Elisanne and Alex! Come in and take a load off.
Summer Alex: So this is the cafe I've heard about.
Summer Elisanne: It's the perfect seaside hideaway. Cold drinks and scrumptious snacks abound.
Summer Alex: I'll take your word on that. We might have another problem on our hands, though...
Beach Cafe Customer: Hey, that woman there... Is that...?
Beach Cafe Customer: Yeah, the special winner of the contest.
Summer Alex: People are staring at me.
Summer Elisanne: My apologies. I suppose it was foolish to hope we'd escape notice someplace this populated.
Summer Alex: My kingdom for a place we can relax without a million eyes on us. *sigh*
Nina: I'd heard the rumors, but wow. You really are the name on everyone's lips, Alex.
Nina: I bet if you were to be our barker, we could DOUBLE our sales!
Summer Amane: Excuse you! What am I, chopped liver?
Nina: Huh? No, that's not what I—
Summer Amane: I can't believe this! I have my pride! Are you forgetting who worked her tail off last summer to help this place thrive?
Summer Amane: You know what? Let's make a little game out of this, Alex. You and I will compete to prove which of us makes a better barker!
Summer Alex: Hey, I didn't consent to—
Nina: Two ladies stand before me, but only ONE can take home the title of the Best Barker in the Business!
Nina: Oho ho ho! My business senses are telling me we're sitting on a gold mine here! Alex, will you rise to Amane's challenge?
Summer Alex: You're on board with this too?!
Nina: There's something in it for you, naturally. If you win, I'll let you borrow my villa.
Nina: And said villa comes with a private beach! We're talking 24-hour access to surf and turf without any pesky rubberneckers!
Summer Alex: Okay, NOW I'm interested.
Summer Alex: Let's do this.
Summer Elisanne: Are you sure, Alex? This sounds like a surefire way to attract even more attention.
Summer Alex: You're not wrong... But I'm ready for it.
Summer Alex: I came to the beach specifically so you and I could have a vacation together.
Summer Alex: I can conquer this particular mountain if it means you and I actually get to do that!
Summer Elisanne: ...Okay, Alex. Go get 'em.

Nina: The rules are simple: whoever brings in more customers within the time limit wins the title of Best Barker in the Business!
Nina: And with that...BEGIN!
Summer Alex: (I'll need to devise a strategy here...)
Contest Host: Well, if it isn't our winner, Alex! What are you up to?
Summer Alex: Hello. I remember you from the contest. I'm, er, working as a barker for the cafe over there for...reasons.
Contest Host: Well, fancy that. Sounds like I'd better drop by!
Passerby: You serious?! Alex is working at that cafe? I don't need much more convincing than that to check it out!
Nina: That's fame for ya. She's bringing folks in by the boatload just by standing here.
Nina: Now, let's have a look at her competition...
Summer Amane: Aha, you're here! This way, everyone!
Summer Amane: Hee hee hee. All my dragon buds turned out for me!
Nina: Good hustle, Amane, but I'm afraid it's not valid if you just call in friends as a favor.
Nina: You need to attract customers like a proper barker would.
Summer Amane: I'm well aware of that. My plan doesn't end there. Look closely!
Summer Amane: Welcome, welcome, one and all! Come on down and dine with DRAGONS while you beat the summer heat!
Passerby: Whoa, Siren's there? You're tellin' me I could kick back while gazing at that beautiful idol dragon?! That RULES!
Passerby: Look how cute that round white dragon is! I wanna eat here, big sis!
Passerby: Well, would you look at that? Okay. Let's check it out.
Nina: A bold strategy! No complaints from me, then. Lots of points for you, Amane!
Summer Amane: You see that, Alex? That's what EXPERIENCE in this biz gets you!
Summer Alex: I'm going to lose at this rate... I need a new plan of attack, and fast!
Nina: Let me give you some insider advice, Alex.
Nina: The key to turning things around is ADDED VALUE. You know, fanservice with a smile!
Nina: Entertain the customers who come to visit. Word of mouth will get around, and even more folks will start showing just for you!
Summer Alex: I follow the logic, but, er... I don't exactly have the sunniest disposition, you know?
Summer Alex: ...Actually, wait. This is no time to hem and haw. Nothing to it but to do it.
Summer Alex: I swore I'd get through this, so I could spend my vacation with Elisanne!
Nina: That's the spirit, Alex! Knock 'em dead out there! Just...not so dead they can't reach their wallets.

Beach Cafe Customer: Oh, my fork!
Summer Alex: Close one there. I managed to catch it before it hit the ground.
Beach Cafe Customer: Whoa, you are FAST! Thank you.
Summer Alex: I'm just glad I could help.
Beach Cafe Customer: ...!
Summer Alex: Do take your time and enjoy your meal.

Summer Alex: *sigh* Entertaining people like this is hard. Did I smile right...?
Nina: You were PERFECT, Alex. Take a look at what your customers are out there saying!
Beach Cafe Customer: Get this, people: Alex served me here at this cafe, and she knocked my socks off! Which is crazy, because I'm wearing sandals!
Beach Cafe Customer: She has this whole stoic-meets-stylish vibe going, but she also gave me a shy smile! The girl's multitalented as heck!
Customer's Acquaintance: Seriously? I have GOT to get in on that. 'Scuse me, pardon me, coming through!
Nina: Welcome, WELCOME! Table for one? Right this way!
Summer Alex: Well, that seems good. I'll keep this up, then!

Nina: Well done today, both of you. You had crowds coming in droves!
Nina: Now, to announce the winner of our little contest for Best Barker in the Business...
Nina: I've tallied the number of customers you each brought in, and survey says... it's a draw!
Summer Alex: A draw? But then what happens with the villa you said you'd let me borrow?
Nina: Yes, well, the condition was whether or not you WON in the competition...
Summer Alex: Hrk...
Nina: But both of you did splendid work—so much that I couldn't possibly say which of you is better as a barker.
Nina: And as such, today, you're BOTH winners!
Summer Amane: Yep, that checks out. I run this joint, after all!
Summer Amane: But you gave some seriously wonderful service to those customers, Alex. I'm more than okay with this outcome!
Nina: Amane's right. You worked really hard, Alex, so as promised, my villa is yours!
Summer Alex: Really? I truly owe you, Nina!
Summer Alex: Finally, we can get this trip back on track!

Summer Alex: It's just you, me, and the beach at last. I couldn't ask for anything better. Ahhh...
Summer Elisanne: I'm glad you're happy, Alex. But, er... Why do you have that bow with you?
Summer Alex: Oh, this? Think of it as...extra security.
Summer Alex: (A must, considering what she told me.)

Nina: Alex, I do have one warning about this particular villa...
Nina: Fiends miiiiight attack from the ocean while you're on the private beach. So do be careful.
Summer Alex: ...I'm sorry?
Nina: You know, fiends? Evil and full of juicy bits? The place where the villa is located tends to have an outbreak every few years.
Nina: And once they show up, it means trouble... but hey, it doesn't happen all that much, so I'm sure it's fine! Probably.

Summer Alex: (Unbelievable. We finally got away from people, only to possibly have FIENDS descend upon us?)
Summer Alex: (I brought a weapon just in case, but I do hope I don't end up having to use it.)
Summer Alex: (Tch! Speak of the devils...)
Summer Alex: (Fortunately, Elisanne has her back turned to them and hasn't noticed yet—meaning I can do THIS!)
Summer Alex: Elisanne! Look, up in the sky! What the hell is that?!
Summer Elisanne: What?! What is it?!
Summer Alex: Hah!
Summer Alex: (There we go. If Elisanne had noticed the fiends, she would've started to think vacationing was out of the question.)
Summer Elisanne: Er... I'm not seeing anything, Alex.
Summer Alex: Sorry. Must've been my eyes playing tricks on me.
Summer Alex: ?! Elisanne, get down! Something's flying this way!
Summer Elisanne: What?!
Summer Alex: Hrah!
Summer Elisanne: It DID feel like something whooshed over my head there...
Summer Elisanne: Although I have to say, it sounded more like whatever it was came from your direction than somewhere else.
Summer Alex: Oh, um, yeah... That's because it was coming from behind me, aiming for you.
Summer Elisanne: Wow. You've got fantastic senses if you picked up on something in your blind spot like that.
Summer Alex: Totally. I'm always on the lookout for these sorts of things.
Summer Elisanne: ......
Summer Alex: Again?! Elisanne, um... Close your eyes! I've got a bad feeling the wind is going to kick sand into them!
Summer Elisanne: Okay.
Summer Alex: Yaaah!
Summer Elisanne: ...You're secretly fighting fiends, aren't you?
Summer Alex: Ngh! You opened your eyes?!
Summer Elisanne: I knew something weird was going on. Honestly, you are an AWFUL liar, Alex.
Summer Alex: Urgh... I'm sorry. I thought that if you realized there were fiends afoot, you'd pull the plug on our vacation.
Summer Elisanne: I see. It means a lot that you'd put so much effort into making me happy...
Summer Elisanne: ...but I really wish you'd stop pushing yourself so hard to do everything alone.
Summer Alex: I barely broke a sweat, though.
Summer Elisanne: That's not what I mean, Alex.
Summer Elisanne: Fiends again?! We'll talk after we mop them up!
Summer Alex: Right. I've had enough interruptions for one day.
Summer Alex: Hrk... There're too many of them!
Summer Elisanne: This is bad. Some of them got away, and they're headed for a beach with lots of people on it!
Summer Alex: After them, Elisanne!

Tourist: Eeeek! Fiends!
Tourist: HEEEELP!
Summer Alex: It's total chaos. We run the risk of hurting bystanders if we charge in headfirst.
Summer Elisanne: First, we need to evacuate the area. Heeey! Run for the square over that way!
Summer Elisanne: It's no good. They're so panicked, they're not hearing me!
Tourist: Huh? Isn't that Alex?
Tourist: It is! Surely she'll be able to help us like she did back at the contest!
Summer Alex: Why are they focused on ME?!
Summer Elisanne: No, this is perfect. You can use this opportunity to make them listen to you!
Summer Alex: Oh, yeah, you're right! Okay!
Summer Alex: (This'll be just like when I brought people into the cafe. Just be amiable like then, and...)
Summer Alex: You have nothing to fear, friends! I promise you, I will defeat these fiends.
Summer Alex: But to do that, I need you all to evacuate to the square in a calm and orderly fashion!
Tourist: Whatever you say, Alex! We trust you!
Summer Elisanne: Excellent. Now we can fight without worry. Haaah!
Summer Elisanne: Ngh... I'm surrounded!
Summer Alex: Hold strong, Elisanne! Hraaah!
Summer Elisanne: Much appreciated.
Summer Alex: Back-to-back formation, Elisanne. Let's clean this mess up once and for all.
Summer Elisanne: Yeah! Together, Alex!
Together: Haaaah!

Summer Alex: And that looks like all of them.
Tourist: Thank you so much, Alex!
Tourist: Our beach is saved thanks to you!
Tourist: Al-ex! Al-ex!
Tourist: Let's sing our summertime savior's praises as we toss her into the air!
Summer Alex: Hold on, now! I'd really rather you didn't—
Summer Alex: Gah! I've heard the phrase "the crowd goes wild," but this is ridiculous.
Summer Elisanne: Let's run for the villa!

Beachgoers' Voices: Come out, Alex! Let us thank you!
Nina: The whole villa's surrounded by rabid Alex fans. This sure is, uh, a thing.
Summer Amane: She'll be mobbed in a flash if she so much as steps a toe outside.
Summer Elisanne: With the throngs this thick, the people are liable to flood onto the private beach any second.
Summer Alex: I can't believe this... This villa was my last ray of hope.
Summer Alex: So much for our vacation.
Summer Elisanne: Oh, Alex...

Summer Elisanne: It doesn't seem like the crowd has any intention of dispersing.
Summer Alex: I hate to say it, but I think our only recourse is to pack it up and head home.
Summer Alex: If I stick around here, I'm going to end up making trouble for all our friends.
Summer Elisanne: But—
Summer Alex: Do me a favor, Elisanne. Try to have at least SOME fun, even if you have to do it alone.
Summer Elisanne: Wait! Alex!
Summer Alex: Let me go. I'm nothing but a burden here.
Summer Elisanne: No, you're not. I've come up with a plan.
Summer Alex: Really...?
Summer Elisanne: Yes. But it'll be tough to pull off alone. At the very least, I'll need three people.
Summer Elisanne: Nina? Amane? I hate to ask, but could you help us?
Nina: Gladly. Alex helped me make a killing, after all.
Summer Amane: I'm in, too! How could I call myself a barker if I ignored two folks right here in desperate need of a vacation?
Summer Elisanne: Much obliged. With that settled, here's what I need the two of you to do...

Fans of Alex: Hey! Someone's coming out!
Fans of Alex: Okay, but who am I looking at? Is that Alex in disguise?
Fans of Alex: At least one of them has to be the real Alex, right?
Fans of Alex: Hey, waaait! Alex! We want to thank you for saving the beach!
Summer Alex: Now's my chance!

Summer Alex: Elisanne's late. I hope she's okay.
Summer Elisanne: Sorry to keep you waiting.
Summer Alex: There you are! What a relief. You managed to give the fans the slip, I take it?
Summer Elisanne: I did. The three of us used our disguises to lure the crowd and split them apart.
Summer Elisanne: It took longer than I expected, but I'd call the plan a rousing success.
Summer Alex: Thank you. You put yourselves at risk for my sake. It means a lot.
Summer Elisanne: What are you talking about? You're the one who took risks for ME to begin with.
Summer Elisanne: You took a job outside of your wheelhouse at the cafe, you tried to beat all the fiends at the beach by yourself...
Summer Elisanne: That reminds me. Do you remember how I told you that you were trying to do too much by yourself?
Summer Alex: Yeah. Now that you mention it, with everything that happened, I forgot to ask what you were getting at.
Summer Elisanne: What I wanted to say was that there's no need for you and you ALONE to do so much. I'm here too, you know.
Summer Elisanne: The desire to enjoy a relaxing vacation together runs both ways. And I was ready to work for it.
Summer Elisanne: That's why I'm delighted that I could be helpful to you too with what we just did.
Summer Alex: Elisanne...! I had no idea. Thank you so much, truly.
Summer Elisanne: You can thank me by putting some sunscreen on and enjoying the rest of this day. Do we have a deal?
Summer Alex: But of course!
Summer Alex: This is everything I could've hoped for. Here's to making new summer memories!

Summer Alex: Take that! And that! Well? Ready to cry uncle?
Summer Elisanne: Eeek, cold! But two can play that game. Here's your PAYBACK!
Summer Alex: WhoaBLBLBBBT! Impressive, Elisanne!
Summer Elisanne: I could say the same of you, Alex!
Summer Alex: Ha ha ha!
Summer Elisanne: Hee hee hee!

Summer Elisanne: A little more to the left! ...Agh, too far!
Summer Alex: Here, then?
Summer Elisanne: Yes! There! Swing down!

Summer Elisanne: Agh, close! Barely grazed it!
Summer Alex: I had no idea watermelon splitting was this hard. Your days are numbered, you green-and-pink menace. Let's go again!

Summer Alex: Phew. I'm a little tired out.
Summer Elisanne: We've been playing around for quite a while! Let's take a break.
Summer Alex: Good idea.
Summer Alex: The sound of the waves is so nice. There's something calming about the sea.
Summer Elisanne: It hasn't been easy for any of us lately. You deserve to soak it all in, Alex.
Summer Elisanne: Vacations aren't just about high-energy antics—they're also about taking time to recuperate, both in body and mind.
Summer Alex: It sounds like I'm hitting all the marks, then.
Summer Alex: I'm...so happy. Hanging out with you until we're both spent, then sitting together in peaceful repose...
Summer Alex: I'm never going to forget this summer... Not so long as I...live...
Summer Elisanne: Huh? Alex?
Summer Alex: Zzz...zzz...
Summer Elisanne: She fell asleep. And no wonder. It's about time she let herself breathe.
Summer Elisanne: Even her sleeping face looks happy. Hee hee.
Summer Elisanne: It does my heart good to see you making summer memories at long last, Alex. You deserve this. This and so much more.