Malora

Man: Come on... Whaddya say? Go out with me.
Malora: I'm sorry, but I just don't feel that way about you.
Man: If ya gave me a chance, I bet I could change your mind.
Man: So c'mon, let's get outta—
Euden: She already said no. Leave her alone.
Man: Who the hell are you? Stay outta this, you little brat.
Man: Unless you wanna be in a world of... Oh hey, that's a real big sword.
Man: Y-you...you a knight, then? ...Fine. I'll let you off easy this time.
Euden: *sigh* At least he finally learned when to walk away.
Euden: Are you all right, miss?
Malora: Oh, don't you worry about me. I can handle people like him easily enough myself.
Euden: Oh. Well, I suppose you didn't really need me to step in, then...
Malora: No, I didn't.
Malora: Though I did appreciate the gesture.
Malora: Say, are you doing anything right now?
Malora: I'd like to repay your kindness.
Euden: Well, if you'd like; though I didn't help you in order to be rewarded.
Malora: Come now, you don't have to hide it.
Malora: I know you only stepped in because I caught your eye. Just tell me what you'd like from me. Anything at all.
Euden: ...
Euden: I can't really think of anything, to be honest. And I'm afraid I have to go.
Malora: Hey—wait!
Malora: No one's ever brushed me off that easily before!
Malora: Well, who'd have guessed you lived in this fancy castle.
Euden: Huh?
Euden: Oh, you're that woman from earlier... What are you doing here?
Malora: I just had to see you again.
Malora: It took me forever to find someone who could tell me where you were.
Malora: Speaking of which—you there. Thank you for guiding me.
Malora: You can go now. I have something else I have to do.
Malora: But maybe we'll see each other around.
Knight: Oh... Well, of course. I understand if you're busy...
Knight: W-well then... Farewell!
Euden: Who was that...?
Malora: My guide.
Malora: It didn't take much to convince him to bring me here.
Malora: I find most people are easily persuaded by my charms.
Malora: Except you.
Euden: What...?
Malora: When you helped me earlier, you were the perfect gentleman until the moment we parted.
Malora: No one's ever treated me like that before.
Malora: I was...curious about you.
Malora: Is that all right, Euden?
Euden: Um... Well, I don't mind if you want to stay in the castle.
Euden: Here, I'll show you around.
Malora: Who said anything about living in the castle? I'm just interested in you!
Malora: How are you not already jumping for joy? Are you actually going to make me hunt you?
Malora: Fine then. I'll stay here until I take you down!

Cleo: I have finished shopping, Euden.
Cleo: Where is Ranzal?
Euden: Wasn't he getting provisions with you?
Cleo: I thought he was selecting weapons at the smithy with you.
Euden: No, I went alone...
Euden: Then where did Ranzal get to?
Ranzal: Bwa ha ha! I'm ready for seconds, shopkeep!
Ranzal: And bring this lovely lady some more, too!
Malora: I'd actually like to order something else to eat, Ranzal.
Malora: Their special of the day looks good...
Ranzal: What, that?
Ranzal: Yeesh, look at that price... I dunno. Are ya sure ya don't want somethin' else?
Malora: Ranzal...
Malora: You really are dashing, you know that?
Ranzal: Yeah? Keep that up, yer gonna make me blush...
Malora: And you've got such big, strong arms...
Ranzal: -really?
Ranzal: Well, I do train a lot. I'm probably the strongest one outta all of us.
Malora: The more I look at you, the more wonderful things I see.
Malora: You're reliable, open-minded, mature...
Ranzal: Bwa ha ha! I can't take any more flatterin'!
Malora: I'm not trying to flatter you; I'm only telling you how I feel.
Malora: Anyway, about the food...
Ranzal: Oh, it's fine. Order whatever ya want! It's my treat!
Malora: That's so sweet of you, Ranzal! Thank you!
Malora: You truly are wonderful. They should sing songs about your generosity!
Ranzal: Bwa ha! Aw, it ain't a big deal!
Euden: I found Ranzal, Cleo.
Cleo: Indeed...
Cleo: What an unbearable scene to behold...
Cleo: I cannot say I am surprised at his conduct, but this is by far the worst display I have seen yet...
Euden: Hrm...
Cleo: How does he not realize that Malora is only using him for his money?
Euden: You think so? It's hard to say if she made him do it, or if Ranzal's the one who up and decided to treat her...
Cleo: Has she fooled you as well, Euden?
Cleo: Malora has manipulated multiple people into paying for her meals over the last handful of days.
Euden: What?! She has?
Cleo: Indeed. And while it is their own fault for being so easily duped, I cannot abide such underhanded tactics.
Euden: Heh...
Euden: Still, in a way, it's impressive that she's so skilled at getting what she wants...

Elisanne: yaaaaaahh!
Elisanne: One of them escaped!
Elisanne: Watch out, Malora! It's heading straight toward you!
Malora: Silly little fiends.
Malora: Why bother attacking the village when you could have so much more fun with me?
Elisanne: Malora! What are you doing?!
Fiend: Aaaarrgghh!
Malora: Hey now, don't get snappy with me, mister. You have to be patient!
Elisanne: Hyah! Cease these frivolities at once!
Malora: I'm not being frivolous!
Malora: I lured them out here on purpose. It seems even fiends find me irresistible!
Elisanne: There is no way that's true!
Elisanne: You'll get yourself killed if you continue with these antics!
Malora: Oh, Elisanne.
Malora: If you don't keep your temper in check, you'll end up scaring off all your suitors.
Elisanne: Wh-what does that have to do with anything right now?!
Elisanne: I am done listening to your non—
Fiend: Graaaggghhhh!
Euden: Malora! Elisanne! Watch out!
Elisanne: I—
Malora: Didn't anyone teach you not to sneak up on people? How rude!
Elisanne: How... In one strike...
Malora: I never miss an enemy.
Malora: I never miss a lover, either.
Elisanne: Again with the frivolity...
Elisanne: And yet, you saved my life. There is no denying that.
Elisanne: You have my thanks. I suppose you can afford a certain degree of flippancy with such ability at your command.
Euden: That was really amazing, Malora.
Euden: Your aim was perfect, even with such a narrow window to work in.
Malora: Oh, it's nothing, really.
Malora: Next time, I think I'll aim for your heart.
Euden: Er, I think your skills would be put to better use protecting all of us.
Euden: I hope we can count on you.
Malora: *sigh* You're as elusive as ever...
Elisanne: I retract what I said before.
Elisanne: There is no place for flippancy on the battlefield.
Malora: What's this, Elisanne? Are you jealous?
Elisanne: Am I what?! No! I just think idle chatter distracts from the task at hand!
Euden: Hey, Malora?
Euden: Why is Elisanne's face so red?
Malora: Hm? Don't tell me you haven't realized? Oh, poor Elisanne.
Malora: In any case, you'll have to excuse me.
Malora: I have dinner plans tonight.

Malora: Euden! Might I borrow some of your time?
Euden: Malora? What are you doing up so late?
Malora: I could ask you the same!
Malora: But more importantly, why haven't YOU sought me out yet?
Euden: Um, did I...say I would do that?
Malora: Well, no...
Malora: But don't tell me you haven't noticed!
Euden: Noticed...what?
Euden: Malora? What is it? Why are you upset?
Malora: Why wouldn't I be?
Malora: I thought all the signals I was sending today had made it obvious...
Malora: Perhaps I'm not as irresistible as I believe...
Ranzal: Horse plop! Nobody holds a candle to ya!
Euden: Ranzal?!
Ranzal: Honestly, Euden!
Ranzal: Malora dropped so many hints, and ya didn't pick up a single one!
Euden: I have no idea what you're talking about...
Malora: You're horrible! How could you?!
Euden: What?!
Ranzal: Don't be upset, Malora.
Ranzal: He's always a bit thick in the skull when it comes to this kinda thing.
Ranzal: But forget about him. How about havin' dinner with me again?
Ranzal: I'm happy to give ya my shoulder to cry on—
Malora: Dammit! How can you say no to me?
Malora: No one has ever said no to me before you! Not a single soul!
Ranzal: Hey, Malora... Did ya hear me?
Malora: Oh—um... Yes. I'm sorry.
Malora: I just don't have eyes for anyone but Euden...
Ranzal: What?!
Malora: Euden...
Malora: I thought you were beating me at my own game, but you weren't even playing... I need to think about this.
Euden: Um... If I've hurt you somehow, I... I'm sorry.
Malora: You don't need to apologize...
Malora: I've always thought I was irresistible... It sounds silly, saying it aloud...
Malora: There have been plenty of men over the years who have interested me, but none who could outplay me...
Malora: And you weren't even aware of the game! I have a lot to think about...
Malora: Anyway... I think I'll retire for the night.
Euden: Uh...right. Good night, Malora.
Ranzal: So wait... I musta been playing the game, too. Guess I lost...
Euden: Um... Ranzal? I, uh... Don't be so glum, all right?
Euden: If you need a dinner partner, I'll happily accom—
Ranzal: Shut up! I wanted to go out with Malora!
Euden: All right, all right! Don't take it out on me!

Malora: Do you have a moment, Euden?
Malora: I've come to say my farewells.
Euden: What are you talking about?
Malora: I'm leaving.
Malora: After all, I only came to this castle to make you mine...
Malora: But now that I know my charms have no effect on you, there's no reason for me to stay.
Malora: But before I go, tell me... What is it that I'm lacking?
Euden: I don't think you're lacking in anything, Malora.
Euden: You're pretty much perfect.
Malora: Huh?
Euden: Well, you're amazing with a bow, and you have a great smile, and you never have a hair out of place...
Euden: I could go on.
Malora: What? But...
Euden: I...I'm sorry.
Euden: I didn't realize you were trying to...to win my affections.
Malora: WHAAAAT?!
Euden: It's just not the kind of thing I think about.
Euden: But my lack of awareness isn't a reflection of you, Malora.
Euden: I think you're a wonderful person.
Malora: B-but...what am I supposed to say to that?
Euden: What's wrong? You're bright red...
Malora: D-don't look at me...
Euden: Did...did I say something wrong?
Malora: N-not at all... It's just...
Malora: I'm not used to people telling me things like that...
Euden: Really? I would think you'd have heard such things a million times.
Malora: No; normally I'm the one saying them. You've caught me off guard...
Malora: Ahh, my heart is pounding again...
Malora: Then...then you DO find me charming, Euden?
Euden: Of course.
Malora: Oh... That's... I'm glad to hear that...
Malora: I...I think I'll stay in the castle after all.
Euden: You'd be helping us all out by doing so.
Malora: Don't put it like that! I want to hear how personally happy you are that I'm not leaving!
Euden: Heh. Right. Well, I'm really glad you decided to stay, Malora.
Malora: Oh, hearing that from you is so embarrassing...
Malora: I may be on my back foot now...
Malora: But I swear, one day I'll make you mine!
Malora: You can't fight it forever, Euden!

Dragonyule Malora: This Saint Starfall costume is simply sensational!
Annelie: Agreed! Looks like our group effort to design a costume paid off. It's not a proper holiday unless your outfit shows some spirit!
Vanessa: It made me think I might have a future in costume-making! Aha ha.
Althemia: I must say, Malora—we couldn't have asked for a better model. Your proportions really bring out the best in the costume.
Dragonyule Malora: Oho ho! Aren't you just the sweetest thing?
Vanessa: Y'know, since you're dressed as Saint Starfall and all... Why not go whole holiday hog and act the part, too?
Dragonyule Malora: A fascinating proposition—and trust me, I know my propositions! Now, what would Saint Starfall do? ...Aha! Gift-giving!
Dragonyule Malora: Perhaps I'll try giving out some special gifts—a letter sealed with a kiss, or a spare key to my bedroom, or some more...worldly pleasures.
Althemia: Wh-which gutter did you unceremoniously scoop THAT idea out of?!
Dragonyule Malora: Aw, you're no fun. Well, perhaps I can rustle up something a tad more... family-friendly.
Dragonyule Malora: As in, maybe I'll quietly slip into the home of a nice, happy family, and leave gifts for them. And then...
Annelie: That's it, yes! And then?
Dragonyule Malora: And then, in exchange for the gifts, I'll take the handsome man of the house back with me and make him one of my reindeer!
Vanessa: Come on, can't you just give out presents like a normal person?
Dragonyule Malora: But that's so blasé without anything to spice it up! Gift-giving should excite the senses and thrill the heart!
Annelie: I'm not sure your idea of a "thrill" is really in line with the spirit of the season.
Dragonyule Malora: Hmm. I wonder what I can do to give my interpretation of Saint Starfall a little of that oh-so-juicy Malora zest...
Woman: Excuse me! Is this the Halidom?!
Annelie: Oh, a visitor! Do you need something?
Woman: I need you to look for someone! We haven't been in contact for several days, and...and... *sob*
Dragonyule Malora: Something tells me there's more to this story. Let's hear it, miss.
Dragonyule Malora: So the person you seek is a lover who disappeared.
Woman: Yes. He just vanished one day without a word. I'm so worried about him...
Althemia: I-it'll be okay. Vanessa and the others are off gathering information right now.
Woman: And they'll definitely find him, right? And then he'll come back to me...
Dragonyule Malora: Tell me: Was this beau of yours struggling to make ends meet?
Woman: Well, yes, actually. He made a mistake at work—one that he said would cost a great deal of money to compensate for...
Dragonyule Malora: And what did you do when he told you?
Woman: I gave him all the money I had, of course. And a necklace I was quite attached to. He promised he would return them to me afterwards...
Dragonyule Malora: Bingo. Classic M.O.
Althemia: What do you mean, Malora?
Dragonyule Malora: Do I have to spell it out for you? Listen up. This so-called "lover" of yours...
Woman: ......
Vanessa: We're back. And wo-MAN, am I furious.
Dragonyule Malora: That seems like an understatement.
Vanessa: You'll probably feel the same in a sec. We heard something absolutely outrageous when we went out to gather info.
Annelie: It would seem that the only thing our missing lover swoons over is cold, hard cash.
Althemia: Wh-what?! So he's a—
Annelie: A con artist, yes. He gets close to his targets, feeds them some trumped-up line about being pressed for cash, and bam.
Vanessa: He shakes poor ladies down for every gold piece they're worth, then ghosts 'em. He's had more than his share of victims, too.
Dragonyule Malora: I knew it.
Woman: ...Aha ha. So he tricked me.
Woman: I had just arrived from Peng Lai, and he was so kind to me in my hour of need... Now I see that was all just an act.
Woman: I loved him with all my heart, and he played me for everything save the clothes off my back. What a fool I am.
Annelie: Hey, that two-faced creep is the one who's at fault here, not you. Don't cry, okay?
Woman: And yet I can't stop thinking about him. It's mortifying. Wretched.
Dragonyule Malora: You silly girl. Love is a battle, and she who falls first loses the war.
Vanessa: Hey, take it easy on the poor gal.
Dragonyule Malora: However, showing due respect to the critically lovestruck is the victor's duty.
Dragonyule Malora: He who opens the door to the realm of passion is beholden to his charge until the bittersweet end. Love is the legacy he is honor-bound to leave behind.
Vanessa: Now you're talkin', Malora.
Dragonyule Malora: Tell me: Would you leave this matter in my hands? I'll catch that miscreant for you—this I swear!
Woman: T-truly?
Annelie: But we have no idea where he is. He's hidden himself quite well.
Dragonyule Malora: That won't be a problem. Just leave it to me.
Althemia: Y-you certainly seem confident. What makes you so sure?
Dragonyule Malora: My mother was a bounty hunter, so I've inherited certain...weapons from her. I'll use them to nab our swindler before you can say the word "heartbreak."
Woman: Then, um... I'd really appreciate your help, Saint Starfall.
Dragonyule Malora: Done and done. But hmm...Saint Starfall? I daresay I'm too sexy to be a saint.
Althemia: Meaning?
Dragonyule Malora: Meaning that I will not be known as Saint Starfall, but as LADY STARFALL! And with that, I'm off! Ta-ta!
Woman: Lady...Starfall!
Dragonyule Malora: Yes! I may not be a particularly saintly woman, but I AM rather fastidious when it comes to matters of love.
Dragonyule Malora: This holiday, your gift shall be the satisfaction of a stolen treasure returned, courtesy of the great and bewitching Lady Starfall!

Girl: This...isn't much, but it might help you.
Con Man: Thank you! This should be enough to cover for my mistake. I don't know what I would've done without you.
Girl: Marvelous! I'm glad I could help! I'll be waiting at home tonight with a big pot of that homemade stew you love so much, so don't be late!
Con Man: Tch. What is this, a mouse's lunch money? Cash sure don't flow like it used to. Guess it's about time I cut that broad loose.
Con Man: Maybe I'll give that other chick the ol' sob story next! Geh heh heh!
Man 1: Hey! Isn't that the guy?
Man 2: Yeah, he does match the description. Hey! You there!
Con Man: What is it? Can't ya see I'm busy here?
Man 1: We've got no beef with you, but we're gonna need you to come with us.
Man 2: Miss Malora would like a word. And we don't like to keep her waiting. PREPARE YOURSELF!
Con Man: Aaagh! What the heck?! I-I'm gettin' outta here!
Ruffian: Yo, that guy runnin' this way— I think he might be you-know-who!
Elder: It's the man that Malora is looking for! You there! Stop!
Con Man: S-stop! Let me pass!
Ruffian: Ain't gonna happen! You're my one-way ticket to a steamy evenin' with Malora!
Elder: Resistance is futile! HRAAARGH!
Con Man: Eeek! Honestly, what is going on?!
Con Man: L-looks like I managed to shake 'em. But who's Malora? Some bimbo I tricked? ...Ooh, wait a sec. Target sighted.
Con Man: Perf. I'll dupe this little lady, have her hide me somewhere safe, and then rob her blind when she's turned the other cheek. Geh heh heh.
Con Man: You there! Miss! Please, a moment! Kindness radiates from you in gossamer waves, and I find myself in need of refuge from a most dogged pursuant...
Noblewoman: Goodness, you poor thing. You know, when I look into your eyes, I see...
Con Man: (Geh heh... She's head-over-heels for me!)
Noblewoman: ...a perfect match for the description that Malora gave me!
Con Man: M-Malora again?! Wait, you can't mean...!
Noblewoman: I'm going to catch you and hand you over to Malora!
Con Man: You too?! But why the heck are YOU trying to capture me?!
Noblewoman: Malora is offering a reward to whoever catches you.
Noblewoman: She offers the privilege of spending Dragonyule with HER! Oh, to bask in her radiance, laughing as we roast chestnuts on an open fire... I! Must! Earn! It! HRAAH!
Con Man: Eeeeeeek!
Malora Fan: Where's that garbage man who makes ladies cry?! I'm gonna find his sorry mug and offer his carcass up to Malora!
Malora Fans: MALORA! MALORA! MALORA! MALORA!
Con Man: The heck is goin' on?! Everywhere I go, people are all about this Malora woman...
Con Man: Whatever the case, I can't stick around here. I gotta get going while the going's good!
Con Man: *wheeze* Now...that I've come this far... I oughta be fine. Wai—UWAAARGH!
Con Man: What in the... Is this some kinda trap?! Shoot! I'm caught in this net and I can't move!
Dragonyule Malora: Oho ho! Oh-so-predictable, my dear pilferer. Without anywhere to hide, I expected you to leave town.
Dragonyule Malora: The scoundrel who tricks and ensnares women is now the one caught in a trap. Aren't life's little jokes hysterical?
Con Man: This was YOUR doing?! Who are you?! And what the heck are you doing in that screwy Saint Starfall costume?!
Dragonyule Malora: I'm not Saint Starfall. I am LADY Starfall, great and bewitching ally of love most pure.
Malora Fans: There's the garbage man! He's with Malora!
Con Man: "Malora"?! Wait, so YOU'RE the one who's been siccing all these people on me?!
Dragonyule Malora: Don't act so scandalized, my dear. I merely offered them a reward for their services. Isn't that right, friends?
Malora Fans: YES, MALORA!
Dragonyule Malora: I mobilized my admirers and had them set up a dragnet for you. My mother would often use this method to track down her bounties.
Dragonyule Malora: Charm and technique that inspires people to action... These are the weapons I bring to bear, courtesy of my dear mother. Please, hold your applause.
Woman: A-amazing, Lady Starfall.
Con Man: Hey! You're one of the women I tricked!
Dragonyule Malora: I'm here on her behalf. And since we're having this little get-together, I called a few OTHER faces you might recognize.
Victim: How could you toy with our pure hearts?! Here's that stew I promised you— Have a taste! I INSIST!
Con Man: YEEEOUCH! HOOOOOOT!
Victims: This is payback for tricking me! TAKE THIS!
Dragonyule Malora: And now it's your turn, my lady. Do with him as you please.
Con Man: Hey, hey, hey! You wouldn't hurt me like these other gals, would you...?
Woman: This man... He... He...
Con Man: H-hey, come on, can't you let this slide? We swore our love to one another, didn't we? Please! FORGIVE MEEE!
Woman: ...I will do nothing.
Woman: Every second I spend concerning myself with this unsightly garbage is wasted. He can rot in a cell for all I care.
Con Man: N-no, not prison! You can't!
Dragonyule Malora: Looks as though you've shaken off any lingering attachment to the man. All that remains is to retrieve what he stole.
Woman: Fess up. Where's my necklace? Hurry and give it back. I'm tired of looking at you.
Con Man: Huh? The necklace? I pawned it ages ago.
Woman: No! That was a keepsake my mother left me!
Dragonyule Malora: Who did you sell it to?
Con Man: If I tell you, will you let me go?
Dragonyule Malora: If you DON'T tell me, well... Who knows what grim fate might befall you? Oho ho!
Con Man: Urgh... Look, there's this guy, Count Delchi. Corrupt nobleman who buys up stolen goods. Lives in a town called Closeheide.
Dragonyule Malora: The count of Closeheide, hm? Very well. I'll go pay him a visit and get the necklace back.
Woman: Y-you'd do that?
Dragonyule Malora: I told you, didn't I? He who opens the door to the realm of passion is beholden to his charge until the bittersweet end. Requests like this are no different. I'll handle it.
Woman: Still, cozying up to the Count will be no mean feat.
Dragonyule Malora: No matter how slippery the target, none shall elude Lady Starfall!
Con Man: Hmph. Sure, you might be able to outwit the Count. But necklace or no, you'll never escape the town alive.
Dragonyule Malora: And why is that? Is there something I should know about this town of Closeheide?

Chief Guard: Listen up, soldiers! This town is a cornerstone of the Empire's defenses! Arrest any and all suspicious persons on sight!
Imperial Soldiers: Sir!
Imperial Soldier 1: (Say, doesn't the captain seem awfully fired up today?)
Imperial Soldier 2: (Yeah, he does. And no wonder—HE's coming to make his inspections, after all.)
 ???: The soldiers seem to be fulfilling their duties.
Chief Guard: Sir, the town's defenses are impenetrable! You can entrust everything to us, General!
Valyx: Indeed. Exercise the utmost caution. Let not so much as a single ant through. Should anyone be foolish enough to try, mete them a swift and final judgment.

Imperial Soldier 1: Y'know, I'm fine with guard duty and all, but I can't imagine who'd be dense enough to try and sneak into Closeheide right now.
Imperial Soldier 2: Nobody, that's who. And plus, the general's here right now, so they'd have to be EXTRA— Wait. Somebody's coming.
Dragonyule Malora: Well, hello there, you studly soldier boys. I've just got some quick little errands to take care of in town, so if you don't mind...
Imperial Soldier 1: No entry beyond this point! Begone immediately or you will be cut down where you stand!
Dragonyule Malora: That's no way to talk to a lady! Won't you pleeease let me through?
Imperial Soldier 2: Hmph. Spare me the sweet talk. You aren't getting through here, ma'am.

Imperial Soldier 1: Weeell, what can you do? Oh, you ARE a naughty little kitten. Heh heh heh...
Dragonyule Malora: And you REALLY won't let this naughty little kitten pass? Even after she's been sweeter than a saucer of warm milk?
Imperial Soldier 2: A-all right, I guess it's fine. It's not like you're a complete stranger, after all. But no causing trouble! You hear me, kitten?
Dragonyule Malora: (Whoever said Closeheide was "impossible to infiltrate" clearly hadn't met Lady Starfall!)
Dragonyule Malora: Why, thank you EVER so much, my big, strong soldier boys. Bye-bye, now!
Imperial Soldier 2: Hey, come on! Don't kiss and run! Let's have a little more fun together!
Dragonyule Malora: We will have PLENTY of quality time soon, believe me. I simply can't put these errands off any longer, darling.
Imperial Soldier 2: Who cares about errands?! You've lit a fire in me, and it's not goin' out anytime soon! You have to—
 ???: Just what EXACTLY does she have to do, soldier?
Imperial Soldier 2: Why, of course we'd— Wait, hold up! Y-you're...
Valyx: Dereliction of duty. Debauchery. Indolence. This is a stain on your honor as soldiers. You should be ashamed.
Dragonyule Malora: (He...he's Valyx! What's an imperial general doing out in a backwater 'burb like this?!)
Valyx: ......
Dragonyule Malora: (His presence is fearsome indeed. There's no way I can take him in a head-on fight. Bluff, Malora, bluff...)
Valyx: Further, I can scarcely believe you'd be charmed by this woman, an ally of the Halidom, and not realize your indiscretion! Am I mistaken, woman?
Dragonyule Malora: (Urk! The jig is up! He's not just strong— he's sharp, too! Nothing's going to get past him.)
Valyx: Are you deaf, soldiers? Arrest this woman. Immediately.
Dragonyule Malora: Urk...
Valyx: Will you not resist? You've some backbone. Or perhaps it's something else. Well, it matters not. Come.
Imperial Soldier 1: S-sir, if there's to be an interrogation, we wouldn't want to trouble you. We will carry it out for y—
Valyx: You wouldn't be able to handle it. I will question her myself.
Dragonyule Malora: ......
Valyx: You're as docile as a lamb. What are you plotting, woman?
Dragonyule Malora: Nothing at all. Tied up as I am, I hardly think myself capable of anything, much less mustering up some grand scheme.
Dragonyule Malora: What I want to know is what you plan to do with me.
Valyx: Following your interrogation, I'll be sending you to prison in the capital. Look well upon the light of day, for you will never see it again.
Dragonyule Malora: My, you underestimate me. You think you can keep ME under lock and key?
Dragonyule Malora: Did you not see your soldiers? It would be a simple task for me to bewitch my jailers and see myself whisked far away from your prison.
Valyx: Indeed it would. A strong case for dealing with you right here and now, in fact.
Dragonyule Malora: I can do you one better. A great and powerful general needs a partner, does he not? In public...and in private, I daresay?
Valyx: Speak plain, woman.
Dragonyule Malora: If you spare me, I will spy on your behalf. I will bring you any information you desire, no matter how classified.
Dragonyule Malora: And I will obey all of your orders without question, whether they pertain to work or matters more...discreet.
Valyx: You think these honeyed words will sway me? I am quite sure you've already sworn fealty to my brother.
Dragonyule Malora: That I found myself in the employ of Euden is mere happenstance. And what's more, he... does not truly understand me.
Dragonyule Malora: He is much too soft. He has not once given me a task that utilizes my ample talents. He coddles me like a pitiful hatchling.
Dragonyule Malora: He never so much as steals a sidelong glance at me. His impertinence has sent me into a crisis of self-esteem.
Valyx: ...What is your point?
Dragonyule Malora: I wish to serve one who will both understand and make ample use of my considerable talents. I care not the form that arrangement takes.
Dragonyule Malora: YOU would certainly not show amnesty to a former enemy, would you? That's the kind of man I'd like to serve—one unafraid to raise a stern hand.
Valyx: ...These are your true feelings?
Dragonyule Malora: If you do not believe me, then test them for yourself. We are alone right now. Give me any order at all, and I will obey.
Valyx: Hmph. You allowed yourself to be captured without a fuss because you were confident you could bewitch me.
Dragonyule Malora: !
Valyx: You planned to find an opening and escape, or to win me over. Whichever it is, you have grossly underestimated me.
Dragonyule Malora: D-did you really see through me so easily?
Valyx: Discipline is the cornerstone of any prudent military man. Do not insult me so.
Valyx: I will ask you this one time: What secret orders has my brother sent you here to carry out?
Dragonyule Malora: I am here by no order of Euden's.
Valyx: Then you come to distinguish yourself of your own volition. What is your aim? Speak honestly, for if you do not...
Dragonyule Malora: *sigh* You truly are the real deal. I can ply you with neither raw might nor feminine allure. I will tell you everything, so lower your weapon.
Dragonyule Malora: My objective is a necklace, stolen from my client by a deceitful lover. I'm told that it was sold to one Count Delchi.
Valyx: You infiltrated enemy territory to retrieve a trinket? You might consider a better lie.
Dragonyule Malora: What?
Valyx: Putting your life on the line for a tangle of foolish passions is laughable. Keep your secrets, then. I'll have you take them to your grave.
Dragonyule Malora: You are a far more tedious man than the reports would suggest, Valyx.
Valyx: ...What?
Dragonyule Malora: The necklace I speak of was given to my client by her mother as a keepsake. It's not the sort of thing whose importance can be measured against sovereign duty.
Dragonyule Malora: And what's more, I absolutely cannot abide the theft of something so precious at the hand of false love.
Valyx: Hmph. You risk your life out of pity, then? Naught but naive sentiment.
Dragonyule Malora: Unfortunately for you, I am not nearly so saccharine a woman as you take me for.
Dragonyule Malora: I'm also here for my own sake. My pride would never allow me to forsake a love scorned.
Valyx: Your "pride"? You are so arrogant that you spit in the face of death? Or is that end precisely what you have desired all along?
Dragonyule Malora: I-it is assuredly not! Only a fool would rush headlong into the hereafter!
Dragonyule Malora: Nonetheless, I have no regrets. Where love is concerned, I will never yield.
Dragonyule Malora: If you're going to kill me, Valyx, then do it.
Valyx: I see. In that case— HAAAAH!
Dragonyule Malora: (Urk!)
Dragonyule Malora: ...You've cut my bonds? What are you playing at, Valyx?
Valyx: Even I have heard of Count Delchi's fraudulent financial activities.
Valyx: If your aim in this city is to exact justice for his misdeeds, then I have no reason to stop you.
Dragonyule Malora: What, so I'm free to move about the city?
Valyx: I will not impede you, so long as your movements concern that necklace. That said, I cannot well allow an enemy to run about my territory completely unchecked.
Valyx: As such, I restrict you thus: You have until sunset. If you cannot accomplish your objective by then, I will come to deliver final judgment myself.
Valyx: Nowhere in this city is beyond my sight. Should you fail, I WILL find you. Remember that.
Dragonyule Malora: I have until sunset, and if I cannot achieve my objective by then, I will meet my end. Heh... You drive quite a tough bargain.
Valyx: If your outlandish pride is genuine, then I am certain you will accomplish your goal. Now go, and show me what your words are worth.
Dragonyule Malora: Phew. Talk about a close call. I'm working with quite a handicap now... I need to get that necklace back before sunset.
Dragonyule Malora: These Alberian royals certainly are a stubborn bunch, aren't they?

Noble: Greetings, my lady. You look exquisite. Might I have the honor of this dance?
Dragonyule Malora: My apologies—I'm afraid the only pleasure I'm interested in sharing tonight is rapport. And I have my eye on someone already.
Dragonyule Malora: (There he is: Count Delchi. I have to cozy up to him and retrieve the necklace somehow.)
Dragonyule Malora: (All before the sun sets, no less.)
Noble: So you fancy the Count, hm? I would advise you reconsider.
Noble: He is a man of great education whose heart lies only with those possessed of considerable intellectual stature.
Dragonyule Malora: We ought to get on splendidly, then. I will go and introduce myself.
Count Delchi: Bah! This dreadful fracas has yet to provide me with even the barest shred of dignified discourse! Surrounded by fools, I am!
Dragonyule Malora: How do you do, Count? Might I bend your ear for the briefest of moments?
Count Delchi: Hm? Who are you?
Dragonyule Malora: My identity matters not. "To lay a lady's secrets bare is an act of violence, for 'tis far more charming she remain an enigma."
Count Delchi: Why, I'd recognize lines from 'The Devil's Bowman' anywhere! You are indeed a woman of taste to quote such a masterful opera!
Dragonyule Malora: Oho ho. Your compliments suit me, sir. Pray tell me, which works stir YOUR heart?
Count Delchi: More than opera, my true passion is for literature. I am particularly smitten of late by a work called 'Edea's Tears.' Surely you've had the pleasure?
Dragonyule Malora: Ah, yes. A work by the philosopher Codrus. I believe the famed passage is, "mourning the world aloud is the only way to change it."
Count Delchi: Oho! You've a discerning eye indeed!
Dragonyule Malora: "To speak with gentlemen of quality, dig your well of knowledge both broad and deep." My mother taught me this.
Dragonyule Malora: I would speak with you at greater length, Count. Surely we could parley on any number of riveting subjects, no?
Count Delchi: But of course. 'Tis a delight to discover you are not some mere fool in costume. Butler!
Butler: Yes, Master. Here are your beverages.
Count Delchi: Let us drink before we speak. To the meeting of two intellectuals!
Dragonyule Malora: Indeed. To meeting a Count of quality.
Count Delchi: I cannot believe you can speak at such length. Ha ha ha! What an auspicious meeting this is.
Dragonyule Malora: I am no match for you, my lord. You are a paragon of refinement and taste.
Dragonyule Malora: And this manor, decorated with such first- rate art—it's more museum than home. You make a fine curator indeed.
Count Delchi: Oho, and you have aesthetic sense, too! Collecting art is my passion. What I have displayed here is but a portion of my collection.
Count Delchi: My most exquisite treasures are housed within a room deeper inside my manor. I've just added to it a most stunning necklace of Eastern origin! Gah ha ha!
Dragonyule Malora: Gracious! Tell me, Count, would you honor me with a tour of this room?
Count Delchi: But of course. Follow me.
Dragonyule Malora: (Yes! That necklace is so close I can taste it...not that I'm in any hurry to do so.)
Count Delchi: And now, I present to you: my collection room.
Dragonyule Malora: It's pitch-black, my lord. Is your collection really here?
Count Delchi: Of course. And what I've collected...is you!
Dragonyule Malora: ...Gh! My body is going numb!
Count Delchi: Despite my appearance, I possess some knowledge of the magical arts. I've bewitched you with a marvelous spell to help you relax.
Dragonyule Malora: Clearly you and I have a different definition of "marvelous."
Count Delchi: Hm. It would seem you've managed to resist it somewhat. But how will you fare against THIS?
Dragonyule Malora: Urgh!
Count Delchi: Butler, put her in the usual place. And after that... Geh heh heh...
Dragonyule Malora: *gasp* Where in the world am I? Brr, it's freezing.
Count Delchi: Rise and shine, my sweet kitten. How are you feeling?
Dragonyule Malora: I must say, this does not rank highly among my favorite wake-up calls. You've bound this rope too tight for my liking.
Count Delchi: Oh, how I love a woman with some bite!
Dragonyule Malora: Flattery will get you nowhere, I'm afraid. More importantly, where are we?
Count Delchi: A storage shed on the grounds of my manor. Or at least, that's what it appears to be! It is actually my secret workshop!
Dragonyule Malora: A workshop for what, pray tell?
Count Delchi: I told you my passion is collecting works of art. That was a lie.
Count Delchi: I will one day sell the art I have amassed and use the resulting sum to bribe the Empress, assuring my rise in the world.
Dragonyule Malora: How positively menial.
Count Delchi: You've yet to demonstrate surpassing ambition yourself. And in truth, my sights extend far beyond mere oil on canvas.
Count Delchi: My true passion is for ice sculpture. To that end, I use my magic to keep my workshop as cold as a snowy mountain.
Count Delchi: I slowly freeze my guests in here, turning them into exquisite depictions of the human form!
Count Delchi: Intellectuals, frozen in ice, bearing anguished expressions of utter despair! I am not a purveyor of art, but misery!
Dragonyule Malora: I've dealt with a lot of men in my time, but never one as utterly perverse as you.
Count Delchi: Ha ha ha! Truly, you honor me!
Count Delchi: Now, the hour has already grown late. I must see my party guests off.
Dragonyule Malora: It's HOW late? Wait! Has the sun set?!
Count Delchi: Long before you roused from your slumber.
Dragonyule Malora: N-no...!
Dragonyule Malora: (On top of being kidnapped by this perverse old man, it's long past the time I agreed upon with Valyx! This is bad!)

Count Delchi: Now, then! You should be nice and frosty by now. ...Hm? Still conscious, are you?
Dragonyule Malora: *pant* *pant* Unfortunately for you, I am not so weak a woman.
Count Delchi: Unyielding to the end, I see. How long will you persist in this courageous facade, hm?
Dragonyule Malora: (This is bad. Despite my words, I'm nearly frozen and losing consciousness.)
Dragonyule Malora: (I'm nearly at my limit. I can't believe I'm going to meet such a miserable end. And dressed like this, to boot.)
Dragonyule Malora: (Normally, this would be about when the Halidom gang would rush in and save me. No such luck this time, though.)
Dragonyule Malora: (After all, I didn't tell any of them where I was going. This lone heroine gig's not all it's cracked up to be...)
Dragonyule Malora: (Farewell, Euden... I'm still happy I was able to spend time with all of you at the Halidom...)
Count Delchi: And now, let me see the expression of utmost despair frozen across your face as you breathe your last! Bwa ha ha!
Butler: M-master!
Count Delchi: What?! I was JUST getting to the good part!
Butler: You must escape immediately! H-hurry!
 ???: So THIS is the Count's hidden workshop.
Count Delchi: What?! You?!
Valyx: You seem to have toyed with more than your fair share of lives. I cannot suffer a villain like you to roam free.
Count Delchi: Why are you here, General? Bah, it doesn't matter! I need to—
Valyx: You'll not escape! Haaah!
Valyx: I will untie your bonds.
Dragonyule Malora: Valyx? Why are you here?
Valyx: I told you that I would find you, no matter where you were. The appointed time is long past.
Dragonyule Malora: Ah, so you trailed me here...and ended up saving me from that perverse man. Wait, where is the Count?
Valyx: Fled with his tail between his legs, has he? Butler, where is the Count?
Butler: I-I don't know anything...
Dragonyule Malora: Guilt is written on his face, plain as day. And his gaze is fixed...here.
Dragonyule Malora: A hidden door. I see. He must have fled through here while you were assisting me.
Valyx: The man is shrewd. He must be outside the manor by now. I cannot believe I've allowed such a vile criminal to escape.
Dragonyule Malora: Why, there's no need to be so down. It doesn't matter where he runs, after all.
Valyx: What do you mean?
Dragonyule Malora: I know well the minds of men. Will you trust me to track him?
Count Delchi: *wheeze* That should be far enough.
Count Delchi: I'll stay here outside town until the heat dies down, and then I'll—URAAAGH!
Count Delchi: A trap?! Why is there a trap here?! Damn it all! I'm caught in this bloody net!
Dragonyule Malora: I knew you would escape through the woods. It's almost embarrassingly cliché.
Count Delchi: H-how dare you presume to understand my intellect! Release me immediately!
Dragonyule Malora: That's a "No" with a capital N, I'm afraid. I'm handing you over to the general. But first...
Dragonyule Malora: I need to give you my PERSONAL thanks for the pleasure of our recent rendezvous.
Count Delchi: Wh-what do you mean, your "thanks"?!
Dragonyule Malora: Why, by that I mean... OHO HO HO HO HO!
Count Delchi: S-stop! Don't come near me! No! NOOO!

Valyx: Count Delchi has been incarcerated. He was rather haggard when we found him. What did you do?
Dragonyule Malora: Oho ho. A lady never tells!
Dragonyule Malora: Now that I've finally gotten the necklace back, we'll all live happily ever after!
Dragonyule Malora: ...Or maybe that's too optimistic. I failed to meet the deadline we set together. Go on, Valyx. Mete out my punishment.
Valyx: ......
Dragonyule Malora: Say, I know this is strange to say to an enemy, but I have one final request.
Dragonyule Malora: Will you return the necklace to its owner in my stead?
Dragonyule Malora: At the very least, I would like to finish my work as Lady Starfall. So please...
Valyx: Do not slough off your fool errand on me. Return the necklace yourself.
Dragonyule Malora: Huh? Does that mean...?
Valyx: I told you that if you could not resolve the situation by sunset, I would deliver final judgment myself...to the Count.
Valyx: It would hardly have been prudent of me to sit idly by and let you flounder indefinitely.
Dragonyule Malora: Then you're letting me go?!
Valyx: I know not the value of love. However, I cannot adjudicate she who would wager her life in the pursuit of justice.
Valyx: If you do not believe my words, then think of it as amnesty granted in the spirit of Dragonyule.
Dragonyule Malora: Valyx... Oho ho. So there's a charming man buried beneath that armor after all.
Valyx: Hmph. This is a one-time display of mercy. Keep in mind that when we next meet, it shall be as enemies.
Dragonyule Malora: Oh, my. Perhaps we could even forego being enemies and simply meet as man and woman!
Dragonyule Malora: I'm starting to feel that even with your brusque, disaffected, impenetrable exterior, you may yet be within my grasp, General. Oho ho.
Valyx: ...Hmph.
Dragonyule Malora: And with that, my mission is complete. Nevertheless...
Dragonyule Malora: Cooperating with an enemy general certainly fits the criteria for a "Dragonyule miracle," if I do say so myself.
Dragonyule Malora: But perhaps "cooperation" is too strong a word. He and I simply kept to our principles.
Dragonyule Malora: Now, I'm off to deliver this necklace! Though the loving sentiment it once bore has perished, the light that remains is still a thing of beauty!