Prologue to Arcadia

Aldo, perfect timing! Listen, Flaudia is saying she wants to get rid of her sword.

This one? It does look like it's seen better days...

It's the sword I wielded before I founded Arcadia. But it's of no use to me anymore.

I don't know. I wouldn't write it off as useless. It just needs a little resharpening and a new handle.

For a sword to get this chipped, it must've gone on a pretty intense journey with you.

I guess you could say that. The first time I came to this island, I was all alone.

Alone?! That's reckless...

Maybe, but that recklessness served me well. It's how I came to found Arcadia.

You know, you've never actually told me about how you founded Arcadia. I'd love to hear about it.

Sure. It all started back when I was wandering the central continent...

Get back here!

Do you know what a customer said to me yesterday? That he's sick of hearing the same old song from me. There I was hoping for a lively round of drinks after a hard day's work... So disappointing.

Are you just going to stand there? 'Cause I could use a hand moving this fishing gear onto the new boat.

You're keeping busy between hunting and fishing. Don't you ever feel like just focusing on one or the other?

If I did that and lost my job, I'd be high and dry just like you!

You're not getting away from me!

Sorry, but I need to borrow your boat!

H-Hey! You can't just...

That old rust bucket ain't fit for sailing no more! It could sink at any second!

There's an island way out here? Is this where that dragon lives? And what is that? I thought it was a mountain at first, but no. I think it's...

Look at all those dragons... Could this be their nest? I need a good plan if I'm going up against these numbers.

No! Get away from that boat!

I need to get rid of them before even more show up!

Guess I called a little too much attention to myself. I need to get out of here before I'm completely surrounded!

Phew, they're not coming after me. They must not like water.

You've got to be kidding me!

Hm? Isn't that the woman who stole my boat? I wonder what she's doing here.

She seems to be breathing still. It would break my heart to leave her like this. We should help her. Who knows? Maybe she'll bring some excitement to this dull life of mine...

Where am I?

The Zol Plains. We found you collapsed on the coast. Do you remember what happened to you?

Yes, up until I jumped into the water. Sorry for the trouble...

It's no trouble at all. The heroic sagas I sing are getting so stale, I welcome any form of excitement.

So...where's my boat? Did something happen out at sea?

About that... Where to begin?

You're telling me there's a dragon's den just across the sea? Incredible...

I'm truly sorry about your boat, though. I'll be sure to pay you back for it.

Oh, don't you worry about that. It was a piece of junk anyway, and I already have myself a new one. Besides, you more than made up for it by giving me something to talk about down at the tavern. A mysterious island inhabited by dragons? My friends are gonna love that.

What are you going to do now?

(A black dragon bigger than a mountain...) (If that's the dragon king that burned down the village, I absolutely have to kill it...)

I intend to go back, of course. But before that, I'll need a boat and enough supplies.

Going to slay the dragons, are you? That's great material for a heroic epic... Still, I suggest you give it a bit more thought. How good do you think your odds are against a giant dragon and its countless retainers? If you really stood a chance all on your lonesome, you wouldn't have washed up on the shore here, now would you?

Well... I suppose you make a good point. But what would you have me do?

It's simple. If you can't do it alone, find yourself some allies.

Allies, you say?

It won't be easy, of course. If the dragon is as big as you say, hunting it with mere humans would be absolute madness.

But what's wrong with that? You're hardly the first fool to chase after a dream. Most give up on their dreams and hide their feelings, but they're still inside, somewhere.

Then...what should I do?

Light a fire. Use your words to kindle the embers of dreams in their hearts. Do that, and they'll be burning brightly in the blink of an eye. If something they seek can be found there, they will be sure to join you. Come, persuade me. Light a fire in my heart.

(From what she's said, it sounds like this woman is a bard looking for inspiration for a new song. So...)

(What would light a fire in her heart?)

What should we talk about?

"A saga"? What about it?

"Some work"? What about it?

"I should create a saga." I have a feeling this will do the trick. How about this?

"I should destroy a saga." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

"I should create some work." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

"I should destroy some work." This definitely sounds like a bad idea. I should reconsider.

I'll give you a new heroic saga to write. Come with me, and you'll bear witness to it all.

A new heroic saga? Now that is interesting. But there's a certain appeal in tales of old. Do you think yours could really compete with them?

I do. How many heroes have tried to slay dragons, and how many have failed? What heart could fail to be touched by the tale of the woman who finally succeeds?

IF you succeed, that is. We'll just have to wait and see on that point. You have a way with words, though, I'll grant you that.

Okay, it's my turn to get to work. I'll go to all the taverns, spreading rumors of an island of dragons. Best to stir up interest in the topic before you start telling your tale. It makes it so much more believable.

Thanks, that would be a big help.

Oh, but if I'm to write a song about an island of dragons, the island needs a name. It's nowhere near as compelling without one.

How about Dark Dragon Island?

Oh... Well, if that's what you want to name it. It's up to you...

Now to gather myself some allies... I don't know if I have it in me. But standing around here will get nothing done. I'll head to Ratle first.

Heroic sagas are a thing of the past. We're in the age of the comedy now.

Just lay the heroic sagas to rest, already.

Now, now. There's no need to make things up. Besides, I like heroic sagas.

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade her. I'll have to try something else.)

I'll give you a job in my new organization. Just name the role, and it's yours.

I appreciate the offer, but singing is the only job for me.

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade her. I'll have to try something else.)

A world where you have to work to live is wrong! Cast away societal values and live as a hermit!

Sounds like a surefire way to die a dog's death. I still got a lot of life left in me.

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade her. I'll have to try something else.)

I already told you! I don't want your medicine!

There's no need to be so stubborn! They use this all the time in the East for cuts and bruises. It's the real deal, I swear!

What's going on here?

Help! This girl's trying to sell me snake oil!

It's not snake oil, I swear! And I could really use the money! Please, help me out here!

Oh... You're quite injured yourself, miss.

Huh? Oh, right. I've been through a fair number of battles lately... But I'm afraid I don't have enough money for your wares.

I see... Um... Hmm...

Just take it. Free of charge.

Are you sure? You just said you needed money.

I'm a medic. I can't just look the other way when someone's injured.

Thank you. Um, what was your name?

Sazanca.

I'm Flaudia. That medicine really did the trick. Did you make it?

Yep. See? I told you it was the real deal.

If you actually took the time to explain that, people might be more willing to buy it.

But I need the money now...

Any particular reason why?

It's just... I'm hungry. So hungry. But I don't have any money, so I've been surviving off wild herbs and things...

I have some dried meat, if you'd like. Consider it payment for the medicine.

Seriously? Thank you!

Mmm, so salty! I almost forgot how good actual flavor tastes!

(I'd only thought about recruiting warriors, but having a medic might not be a bad idea if we're in it for the long haul.) Judging by your outfit, I'm guessing you're from the East. What brings you here?

I came to look for dragon's blood. I want to make an elixir of immortality.

You want to be immortal?

Yeah, I hate the idea of dying. I'd do just about anything to be immortal.

Then, maybe you'd like to join me? I've been to an uncharted island and found a dragon as big as a mountain. I want to slay that dragon. You want dragon's blood. It sounds like our interests align.

Did you just say dragon's blood?

(That got her attention. I just need to find the right words to give her that final push...) (She must be famished right now. That dried meat won't nearly have satisfied her appetite. So...)

*nom nom*

Huh?! Th-There's more?

This is the last of it...you want it?

I do, I do, I dooo!

But I'm hungry too, you know. I can't just give the last of my food to someone who's not even in my party...

I'll join! I'll do whatever. Just lemme eat it, okay?

Very well. Now that we're allies...

Yay, seconds! After "immortal," that's my next favorite word!

Maybe I shouldn't be saying this, but are you sure you want to team up with me for a piece of meat?

I'm sure. It's not like I have any better options for finding dragon's blood anyway. I totally didn't just make this potentially life-altering choice because I got hungry, okay?

(Can I really believe that? And does it even matter? If she's happy, I'm happy.) (This recruitment drive is going better than expected. I need to keep this up and find more allies.)

Where are you gonna go after this? Straight to the dragon?

No, first I need to find some more allies. For that, I'm going to look around in crowded areas.

Then let's go to Acteul! The water's supposed to be beautiful there. And don't get me started on the food...

Acteul, huh? Then we'll have to cross Lake Tiilen.

Well, no time like the present!

(Now that I think about it, it's been a while since I've traveled with humans other than my closest companion...)

(What would light a fire in her heart?)

What should we talk about?

"Her appetite"? What about it?

"Her dreams of immortality"? What about it?

"Her stomach"? What about it?

"I should make use of her appetite." I have a feeling this will do the trick. How about this?

"I should probe into her appetite." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

"I should make use of her dreams of immortality." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

"I should probe into her dreams of immortality." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

"I should make use of her sides." This definitely sounds like a bad idea. I should reconsider.

"I should probe into her stomach." This definitely sounds like a bad idea. I should reconsider.

Come with me to this uncharted island, and you could encounter new flavors and ingredients.

New flavors? Ooh, I like the sound of that, no, wait a minute. I could also encounter new monsters, too...

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade her. I'll have to try something else.)

How much dragon's blood do you need? Because I'll slay as many dragons as it takes.

Whoa there, calm down on the killing, okay? You're kinda scaring me...

(Well, that stings... It looks like I'll have to find another way to persuade her...)

This island has a dragon as big as a mountain. If you want to make an elixir of immortality, wouldn't the blood of such a unique dragon be better?

A-A dragon as big as a mountain? That sounds like a surefire way to get smushed!

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade her. I'll have to try something else.)

Tickle, tickle, tickle!

Hehehe! Ahahaha! What are you doing?!

She's so soft and squishy...

(Oops. I'll never manage to recruit her if I keep getting distracted...)

You know, you should really exercise after eating. Don't you want to lose that side fat and get toned?

I'm not going on any diet! You're just trying to flex about how great your own abs are.

I-I'm not!

(No. This isn't the way. I'm not trying to get her on a diet, I'm trying to recruit her.)

*sniff sniff* That smell... Is that?

Lovely! We meet again!

Sazanca? You're looking well.

You know her?

This is Lovely. She helped me out when I was new to this land and about to collapse from hunger.

Well, it's not like I could turn a blind eye to the hungry. Would you like to stop and eat now?

Can I, Flaudia? Can I?

Of course. It would be a shame to refuse such an invitation. In fact, I think I'll join you.

But I have to ask...what's with that guy over there?

Oh, him? He's just a sailor I found washed ashore. He said he lost his ship in a storm.

He was crying from hunger, so I fed him. He must have fallen asleep after eating so much.

Hmm... Last time, I got to the island by following a dragon. I'll need a navigator if I want to get back there without one.

You're thinking of recruiting him?

Once he wakes up, I'll see what he has to say. In the meantime, let's have something to eat.

Hmm? What...the...? I...

Morning, Flaudia! You were out like a light as soon as you finished eating. You must've been exhausted.

Oh...sorry. I'm okay now.

I spoke to the sailor for you. He said he'd be happy to join us.

She says you're going to some uncharted island to slay a dragon? Smells like money to me. I'll gladly buy into your dreams for the chance to turn my life around!

Thank you, your help would be much appreciated.

And how about you, Lovely? We could use a cook on our quest.

Sorry, but I have something keeping me here.

I taught Sazanca all about central continent cuisine, so she can cook for you instead!

You can count on me!

Do you two have more traveling to do before our adventure?

Yes. When the time comes, we'll meet at the coast of Zol Plains.

Now then, off to Acteul!

Full house, huh? Maybe we should come back later.

No way! I'm starving here!

You two, over here! If you don't mind sharing a table, you're welcome to sit with me.

Really? That would be great, thanks!

Excuse me, do you mind if I order?

So you're traveling together in search of a party to help you slay a dragon?

Are you interested in joining us? You look like you could handle yourself in a fight.

I appreciate the offer, but I'll have to decline. If men are with you, my presence will only disrupt the peace.

Um, I don't quite understand, but... if that's your choice, I respect it.

That's right. We're hoping to travel to an island of dragons.

(Sounds like the bard's songs are doing their job...)

Where could we find those two now?

Why would they go further inland if they're planning to set sail?

Maybe they had some business there first. Anyway, if they share our goal, maybe they'd be willing to join us.

Then there's no time to lose! Let's go!

What, now?! But I haven't even finished eating! This is a waste of perfectly good food!

Damn it! Why'd there have to be so many of 'em?

We are trespassing on their territory. What did you expect?

You're kiddin'! MORE of 'em?!

Phew. Looks like we made it just in time.

Don't leave me behind!

Thanks for your help. But why don't we save the pleasantries for later?

It seems kind of angry!

As they say, "only when you approach the rocks of Nadara will the flames arise."

Um? What?

Oh, just ignore him! Now that the weaklings are outta the way, let's take care of this one!

I'm glad you guys turned up when ya did. Thanks.

Let this be a lesson for you: don't take random shortcuts. You never know where a monster's nest may be.

You know what they say. "Climb the tree, and a swarm of hornets will surround you."

Yeah, yeah. My fault.

What's the matter, Flaudia? You're just staring off into space... Did you hit your head or something?

Yes... I mean, no. I'm fine. (Here I am, slaying monsters as usual. And yet...something's different.) (Having others fight alongside you is quite the nice feeling...)

I am glad we all managed to escape relatively unscathed. Allow me to thank you for your help. I am Cerius, and this is Wryz.

I'm Flaudia. And this is my friend, Sazanca. Pleasure to meet you both.

Were you two headed for Palsifal Palace?

I don't see any other reason to travel down this road. That's where you're headin', too, right?

Actually, no. We heard there was a pair down in Acteul, talking about Dark Dragon Island. We're just trying to track them down, and I think we've found them...

Yes, that sounds like us all right... What is it that you want?

We're planning a trip to Dark Dragon Island, just like you.

I've actually been there before. And if you've heard about the island, you must have come across our bard friend. Right now, she's singing songs about the island I saw, but she wants to write an epic about our adventure.

See, Cerius? Told ya it wasn't just a rumor!

But these guys already beat us to the punch. Man, we better get a move on or we're gonna miss out!

Slow down, we haven't even told you everything yet.

What, you gonna share the location with us or somethin'?

We could, but...why don't we just travel together? We're trying to form a party of dragon slayers, and we could use some fighters.

Sorry, but we're not your guys. You'll have to keep lookin'.

You're really going to turn this down? This is a golden opportunity to find the island without trouble.

Yeah, but if I join 'em, I'll just be a supportin' character in their story. I wanna be the hero of my own saga.

Not some extra in someone else's.

I don't think of my companions as extras. My one and only goal is to slay the dragon. If you want to be the hero of the saga, then be my guest. I'll ask the bard to write about you instead.

How sweet. You really that desperate for the extra numbers? Or are ya just patronizin' me? Ya think I'm dumb enough to be happy playin' hero?

Not at all! I'm so sorry if I gave that impression.

You're too quick to apologize. I don't like that. You sayin' you're used to dealing with brats? Were ya thinkin' that if you yielded first, I'd stop makin' a scene? 'Cause you're wrong.

No one is saying that.

She doesn't have to say it in words! Her attitude's doin' all the talkin'! I pave my own path. I'm not some staged hero.

You don't like me trying to keep the tension down? Fine. Then I'll be frank with you. The way you are now, you'll never be the hero.

WHAT did you just say?

Outnumbered or not, if you struggled against a few common, little monsters... You won't stand the ghost of a chance against the dragons of that island. I know the threat they pose because I experienced it for myself firsthand. No one can take them on alone. That's why I'm trying to form a party.

Think you're better than us, huh? Why don't ya come over here and prove it!

Please stop this already. We're not trying to start a fight...

Wryz, pick your battles. If you stop her from sharing their information, we'll have to take the long way around.

Yes, maybe you SHOULD take the long way around. It might do you some good. I'm not saying you could never take on that dragon. In time, with enough training and...

But I don't HAVE time!

Wryz, where are you going?

You deal with them, Cerius. I'm goin' on ahead.

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to provoke her.

Don't worry about it. She gets angry at the drop of a hat these days.

Aren't you going after her?

No, I know where she's headed. I'm much more interested in hearing about the island.

Sazanca...can I leave her to you?

Ugh...fine. As long as all I've gotta do is follow her.

So it's all true? The dragon's den and the creature as large as a mountain? Here I was thinking it was poetic license. It seems the truth is even stranger than verse...

Think your friend got cold feet?

As the saying goes, "if you want to prove your strength, better to fight one T-Rex than 100 Tiny Dragons." Wryz seeks a stronger opponent to fight. She's not scared; she's excited. As am I.

(I've never heard these sayings... is he just making them up?)

But if you didn't know where the island was located at the time, what makes you think you'll find it now?

This time, we have a sailor to help. He's working on finding an approximate location as we speak.

Well, I'd love to hear what he comes up with...but I suppose it would be taking a liberty to ask that of you.

I take it you don't like the idea of joining us, either?

I go where Wryz goes. I can't join you unless she agrees first.

(So it all depends on her? But talking will get me nowhere.) (Cerius won't join us unless Wryz agrees, but to get Wryz to join us, I need Cerius' help...)

You know, this is really making me think of the broiler and the egg...

Heh. Tell me about it.

(Did he just laugh? Hmm, maybe this could help my case.) (He must understand the benefit of teaming up.)

(If I could come up with a proverb about slaying dragons, it might resonate with him...) (Something about the small banding together to overcome a giant should do the trick.)

It's like they say, "A swarm of hornets can sting even a Golem."

Hmm... Yes, I see what you're saying. Together, the group can overcome what the individual cannot alone.

You make a valid point. But I cannot make a decision about joining you before hearing what Wryz has to say.

However, I will happily mediate to ensure she hears you out.

Thank you. If you bring her to the table, I'll do all I can to persuade her.

(What proverb would light a fire in his heart?)

What should I use to create the proverb?

"Hornet" and "Corinda Rose." Will this really work? Maybe I should reconsider...

"Hornet" and "Golem." I'm feeling confident. I'm happy with this.

"Dancing Flower" and "Corinda Rose." I'm not sure about this... I think I should reconsider.

"Dancing Flower" and "Golem." Will this really work? Maybe I should reconsider...

It's like they say, "It takes a Corinda Rose to confuse a hornet."

So you're trying to deceive us with sweet nectar?

What? No!

(He totally took that the wrong way. If I'm going to persuade him, I'll have to try something else.)

It's like they say, "To the Dancing Flower, give a Corinda Rose."

......

Hm? What's wrong?

Well, that just feels rather immoral...

(I don't know how he interpreted that, and I don't think I want to find out...) (If I'm going to persuade him, I'll have to try something else.)

It's like they say, "It takes a Dancing Flower to raise a Golem."

...I'm afraid I don't understand.

(Someone sure is picky about proverbs. It's not like his make much more sense anyway...) (If I'm going to persuade him, I'll have to try something else.)

Hey, wait up... You're going too fast.

Then stop followin' me. I'm never gonna join you anyway.

Why are you so mad? Flaudia's a good person. She has to be. She gave me food.

Food? Seriously? You're tellin' me you joined her for just a snack?

I dunno. I think it's pretty amazing to give your food away to someone else when you're hungry yourself...

It's just food. It's not that serious.

I'm guessing you've never had to go without, then? What a blessed life you must lead.

Blessed? ME?

Oh, please don't get mad again...

If I were blessed, I would NOT be doin' this. You guys don't care about slayin' dragons like I do!

You think? I mean, I don't know Flaudia's reasons for wanting to slay this dragon... But I don't think you should be jumping to conclusions without ever even asking her about it.

Don't get preachy with me!

I'm not tryin' to, Look, I think you two would actually get along if you just gave each other the time of day. Flaudia just gets kinda weird and scary when she talks about slaying dragons...

What's that supposed to mean?

Eek! Wh-What is that thing?!

Tch... These things just don't give up...

Is that what I think it is?

Urgh, these things are really gettin' on my nerves now! That's it! You mess with me, you die!

Watch out!

It's not like you to get caught off guard by a surprise attack. Maybe if you hadn't lost your temper...

My temper had nothin' to do with it! It's 'cause I was tryin' to protect that sorry excuse for a human!

What's SHE doin' here, anyway?

I was hoping to talk to you again.

But first, we need to deal with these monsters.

Such persistent creatures. We chase them away, only for them to come straight back again.

There's too many... We'll never beat them if we don't fight strategically.

We could always run away. That's a good strategy...

Good point. We should retreat and regroup.

Cerius! I'll act as bait! While it's distracted, shoot its wing!

Yes, yes. I know the drill by now...

You can't use yourself as bait! One wrong move, and you're dead. We need a safer plan.

Yeah, way to state the obvious. Your head's in the clouds with those big, dragon-slayin' dreams... But you're thinkin' way too down-to-earth.

If we wanna get outta this alive, we don't get to pick and choose how.

So, I'll risk my life to win this. We move forward, or we die!

You do have a point... In that case, let me join you. Double the decoys, double the chance of success, right? Maybe it's time for me to get my head back in the clouds after all.

That's more like it! Way more encouragin' than that holier-than-thou act you had goin'! 'Kay, follow me!

All right, let's get this party started!

All right, let's get this party started!

I did it...I totally did it! I took on a prey that big, and I won!

You must have been able to give more power to the fight because there were more of us helping you.

You're sayin' it wasn't just my natural talent?!

I mean, the fight did feel weirdly easy...

Congratulations. You've finally realized the perks of fighting with allies over fighting alone.

Ugh... Don't say that...

Maybe you'll listen to what she has to say now?

Fine! I'll hear her out, but that's it! And this doesn't mean I'm gonna agree to anythin'!

That's good enough for me.

(She's finally at the negotiation table. I can't waste this chance. What would resonate most with her?)

Sazanca. I know you haven't spent long with her, but have you noticed anything about Wryz?

Huh? Not particularly... I mean, she's always mad and she's super scary...

And it sounds like she's never had to worry about food or a roof over her head. But she says she's not blessed.

(She doesn't have to worry about necessities, but she's still unsatisfied? What does she want?)

(Oh, I think I know. Her whole attitude toward me changed after I accepted her strategy.) (She wants validation from others. In which case, I should say...)

I can only imagine how much effort you had to put in to gain your level of skill.

The way you move in battle, the scars covering your body, and even the calluses from your spear. They speak volumes.

Huh?

I mean, you've worked so hard.

......

What's wrong? Does your tummy hurt?

She...she understands me...

I...I do? I wouldn't go that far...

From the way you fight and act, it's clear. You are out of your mind. But that's exactly what we need. If you want to create a legend, you have to be the storyteller. Join me, and let's slay the dragon together.

......

...But of course.

Okay?

If...you need my strength... and we share the same goal...

Someone's had a personality shift.

No, I haven't! I'm the same as I always was!

Teehee. Now that we've had the chance to have a proper chat, I'm realizing you're actually pretty sweet. I look forward to working with you both, Wryz and Cerius.

So...what happens now?

Good question. Our party's looking pretty good now...

If I may suggest a little detour, I think I know someone else who would make a fine addition to our party. She's known as the Dinosaur Slayer. She's a famous hunter from Ratle.

A dinosaur slayer, eh? Well, we'll have to go through Ratle to get to Zol Plains anyway. Let's check in on this hunter while we're there.

So we're off to Ratle now, huh? Man, this is turning into a full grand tour of the continent.

(What would light a fire in her heart?)

What should we talk about?

"The Great Wyrm"? What about it?

"Wryz"? What about her?

"I should say nice things about the Great Wyrm." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

"I should carefully analyze the Great Wyrm." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

"I should calm down the Great Wyrm." This definitely sounds like a bad idea. I should reconsider.

"I should say nice things about Wryz." I have a feeling this will do the trick. How about this?

"I should carefully analyze Wryz." This definitely sounds like a bad idea. I should reconsider.

"I should calm down Wryz." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

The giant dragon was so powerful that it overwhelmed all who saw it. I can't even imagine how we'd defeat it.

How dare you! You think you can talk down to me with that half-baked lecture? Unlike SOME people, I ain't intimidated by the size of my enemy!

(That only made her angry... I was just trying to warn her about the dangers...) (This is never going to persuade her. I'll have to try something else.)

The dragon is as big as a mountain. One move could crush us where we stand. We need to take time to observe its movements if we want to avoid that fate.

So you just wanna wait and see, like some coward? Was everythin' you said before just a lie? We can't slay the dragon with inside- the-box thinkin'! If we're gonna do this, we need a touch of crazy!

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade her. I'll have to try something else.)

It won't be easy to slay the dragon. Why don't we find a way to make it drowsy, then kill it in its sleep?

Are you serious? Only cowards kill creatures in their sleep, not heroes!

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade her. I'll have to try something else.)

(She seems to act more on impulse than logic. If I point that out to her, it could help her grow...) (No, now is no time for harsh truths. It will only make things worse.)

You were just thinkin' mean things about me, weren't you? I can tell by the look on your face! All you grown-ups are the same. Laughin' behind my back, thinkin' they're always right... Convincing themselves that tradition equals justice and anybody who disagrees is an idiot!

UGH! You're just the same as the grown-ups in the village! I never should've agreed to hear you out!

(I haven't even opened my mouth, and she's already fuming! Say something, before she bursts a blood vessel!)

Let's calm down, okay? Why don't we look at this realistically and try to come up with a plan together?

Reality sucks! That's why I chase my dreams!

I'd rather die than stop moving forward!

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade her. I'll have to try something else.)

(It's nice working together. I can really tell our group's expanded now that we can split up tasks and tackle an obstacle together.)

Oh? Is that...

(Majestic stance? Check. Huge ax? Check. She fits Cerius' description, all right...)

Excuse me, am I right in thinking you're Yio the Dinosaur Slayer?

I am Yio the Di-Dinosaur Slayer, yes. And who are you?

(Did she just stutter? No, maybe that's just how they pronounce it around here...)

My name is Flaudia. I came here to ask for your help...

So what do you say? Will you join my party?

No...

Huh?

I-I'm not scared of dragons or anything... But...but I have work to do. I can't just get up and leave the village.

Oh, that's too bad. But I understand. I won't try to force you.

(I can't believe I just lied to her, after she came all this way searching me out. I should be more honest...)

Oh? Your sword... It's looking pretty worn...

Oh, this? Yeah, the dragons on that island had incredibly strong scales. I don't know how much longer this sword will last, so I should probably get a new one before I go.

Then let me introduce you to the blacksmith. He made my ax, so he knows what he's doing.

If he's good enough for the Di-Dinosaur Slayer, he's good enough for me. Lead the way.

(Did she just...stutter?)

What can I do for you today, Yio? Need a new weapon?

Actually, we're here for her. I'd like you to make her a sword.

Yes, I'd like a Di-Dinosaur Slayer sword...

(Now, I'm sure! It's not a stutter! She's mispronouncing it because of me!) (I need to correct her...but...)

Can do. But you don't look like a hunter to me. What would you need a weapon like that for?

A dragon bigger than a mountain? And you want to kill it?

And your sword there...isn't that a famous dragon-slaying sword? For a sword like that to get so beat up, those dragons must be pretty formidable...

I guess I am asking a lot...

What you require might not be possible, but I want to try all the same.

Blacksmiths like me dream of a chance like this. To craft a weapon capable of slaying a giant dragon...

It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance. One I can't let my competition get their hands on. So I'll craft your weapon.

My apprentices and I will craft you a sword to make your dreams come true!

But in the meantime, you can't keep using that tattered old thing. Here, take this.

It's the best sword we have in stock.

Thank you. And thank you, Yio, for bringing me here.

Okay, time to get everyone together and head for Zol Plains.

Emergency, emergency! There's a giant dragon over at Nadara Volcano! Wryz and Cerius are already on their way to hunt it!

They could have given me a little warning first... I'll be right there.

Honestly, you two! Wait for us before you do something like this. We're supposed to be a team, remember?

Yeah, but I didn't wanna miss it...

Anyway, we can discuss this later. For now, let's just focus on the enemy.

Wha?! Its scales are solid as stone! No, why would they be any harder than on any other dragon? Maybe it's the sword that's the issue?

Flaudia! Incoming!

Flaudia! We've gotta get outta here!

Not yet!

Hahaha! Not backin' down, huh? I love to see it!

But mistake recklessness for bravery, and you won't last long. Have a li'l more respect for your own life.

Who are you?

We can talk later. Right now, you're wounded and up against a fearsome foe. Lemme help you.

(Sadly, this sword is no good. We'll need to prioritize developing a dragon-slaying sword. Until then, I'll use my old blade.)

Thanks for your help. If you hadn't shown up, I hate to think what would have happened...

Nah, it was nothin'. So tell me, what brings you here? It's not the sort of place regular folks go.

We might ask you the same thing. You look like you have some kind of connection to dragons yourself...

Are those...horns?

Hahaha! You could say that!

Well, I won't pry. That's not what's important to me.

Flaudia, are you thinkin' of recruitin' this guy?

I am. You saw the way he took on that dragon. He'd be a powerful addition to our party.

Well, I don't think we need him. I can manage on my own...

What're you talkin' about over there?

Before we get into that, do you mind if I ask your name?

Ah, right you are. I'm Utpalaka.

I'm Flaudia. And this is Wryz, Sazanca, and Cerius. Together with a few other companions, we're putting together a dragon-slaying party.

(Dragon...slayin'... Better not introduce 'em to Shaga then...)

After seeing you fight back there, we'd love for you to join us. What do you say?

Hmm...Teamin' up with a group of dragon slayers could be a good move for me...

And if nothin' else, you're not afraid of a good challenge. I like that.

(That's a promising reaction. One little push, and I think he can be persuaded to join.) (He seems to appreciate courage but hates recklessness.) (If we let him know how we mean to slay that dragon, then surely...)

Have you heard the rumors about Dark Dragon Island? It's an island where dragons roam free, led by one giant dragon as big as a mountain.

We want to slay that dragon.

A worthy goal...but it sounds way too reckless. Can you really do it?

Not alone, I can't. But I have a party now. Although we all have our reasons for doing this, we're working toward the same goal. The power we have as individuals may not be much, but together, we can accomplish great things. And we will stake our pride on slaying that dragon.

And then we'll be legends!

I see... What a way to live! I think I could put up with human society for a while for a chance to see that up close.

Okay. Count me in.

Thank you, I'd be glad to have you fighting by our side. I know this seems sudden, but we were planning to head for the island right away. I'm sure you have preparations to make and goodbyes to say, but do you think you can work with that?

Hmm... If it's gonna be a long trip, there is one goodbye I'd like to make. Do you guys mind going ahead?

Not at all. We're all meeting at the coast of Zol Plains. Head there once you're ready.

We'll see you there.

(What would light a fire in his heart?)

What should we talk about?

"Life"? What about it?

"Pride"? What about it?

"I should stake my life." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

"I should throw away my life." This definitely sounds like a bad idea. I should reconsider.

"I should play games with my life." This definitely sounds like a bad idea. I should reconsider.

"I should stake my pride." I have a feeling this will do the trick. How about this?

"I should throw away my pride." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

"I should play games with my pride." I don't know about this one... Might want to reconsider.

I will risk my life to slay the giant dragon.

I love the enthusiasm, but you shouldn't throw your life away like that.

(I was trying to show my resolve, but it seems to have backfired.) (This is never going to persuade him. I'll have to try something else.)

My life doesn't matter as long as I get to slay the dragon. I'd gladly sacrifice it to the cause!

But what's the point if you end up dead?!

I can't let someone just throw their life away. If that's what you wanna do, I'll just have to stop you here.

I don't want to fight you...

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade him. I'll have to try something else.)

If I could make that vile dragon suffer, and watch it die, regretting ever having come before me...

Nothing would make me happier.

As they say, "the idle T-Rex relentlessly hounds the lean Raptor."

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade him. I'll have to try something else.)

Maybe I should just swallow my pride, abandon my dragon-slaying ambitions, and settle down to a quiet life...

How could you say that, Flaudia? You promised we'd slay this dragon together!

So you're all talk, huh? How disappointin'.

(It's no good, this is never going to persuade him. I'll have to try something else.)

Those are some impressive muscles... You must have had some sleepless nights getting into that shape.

And what's that on your shoulder? A pet dragon?

Nope, it's not my pet...

Hmm... What's the point in muscles like that if you won't even use them? Are they just there for decoration?

Compliments one minute, insults the next. What're you hopin' to get outta this?

(He's not insulted. His heart is just as strong as those rippling muscles.) (All the more reason why I need him in our party. I'll have to up my game.)

Sorry we're a little late. Is everyone else here?

I see a few new faces. And the pier looks...

I've been busy while you were away. I recruited some more crew and got the pier ready for our departure. We have a rough idea of the island's location, and the ship is ready to set sail when you are. Shall we depart?

Yes, let's go! I've kept you all waiting long enough already.

Let's set sail for Dark Dragon Island!

Whoa...it's enormous... You're seriously tellin' me that's just one dragon?

Eep! Just think how much blood I could get outta something that size!

Finally, a worthy foe! If this won't make me a legend, I dunno what will!

How like you, to see that creature and think of ambition over trepidation.

Hahaha! It's a little too late for cold feet now!

I'm just glad you finally understand I called it Dark Dragon Island.

Yes, some things you just can't imagine until you've seen them with your own two eyes...

An island where the great wyrm rests...Wyrmrest Isle, if you will.

Huh?

Wyrmrest Isle? That has a nice ring to it.

Yeah, it's the perfect name to appear in my legend.

I don't know who came up with it, but "Dark Dragon Island" just doesn't have the same impact.

Fine. If everybody prefers the new name, then that's what we'll go with.

Anyway, our first priority is to set up camp. We'll need to go further in for that... But even I've never delved that far. We must proceed with caution.

Whoa! What are those things?

Stay calm! When one enters the dragon's den, one should expect to see dragons!

Just as the rumors said, there is plenty of prey for us here.

Would've been no point comin' here otherwise.

We're here to slay the giant dragon. We don't have time to waste on these losers!

All right! Where's the next prey at?

I'm glad you're enjoying yourself, but we should take a look around before we search for our next fight.

Good job, everyone! That was a lot of dragons to take on.

Man, I'm exhausted.

I'm afraid we can't rest yet. We need to build a barricade before more dragons show up.

Let's make this site our base!

Everyone's so merry and full of life... I've never known such a thing.

(I thought I'd lost everything back then, but now I have friends again. A place I belong.)

(I don't want to lose it all again...)

It's done! This should make a pretty great base, don't you think?

I do. We have everything we need now. And if we ever need supplies, we can always get them from the mainland or delve deeper into the island.

And so the curtain rises on your heroic saga... But you're forgetting one crucial thing.

And what's that?

Our name. Our rag-tag team of dragon slayers needs a real name if it's to become legend.

A name...? I've got it.

How about "Arcadia"?

Hmm...I like it. I can hardly believe you came up with it yourself.

You're right. I didn't.

It's not important who came up with it. All that's important is that you like it.

Tonight, we must celebrate! Let us hold a feast to honor the founding of Arcadia!

So there you go. That's how it happened.

Yeah, I still remember that night. Good times.

You make it sound like it's ancient history. It ain't even that long ago...

And you know the rest, Aldo. Wryz was named commander after her success in dragon hunting... Then she got angry and left base, saying she'd find an incredible warrior to carve up the dragon. Leaving the rest of us behind to fight powerful dragons for dragontears...

Flaudia! Sorry to interrupt, but I finished your weapon!

This is incredible. I can't believe you made that nicked blade into something so beautiful.

I thought it would be a shame to fully reforge such a famous sword, so I made it into a lance instead.

As they say, no weapon made of a long-gripped sword is ever dull in cutting.

Oh, don't you start! It's bad enough when Cerius does it. I can't take two of ya spoutin' off made-up sayings.

But mine's REAL! They really DO say that in the East!

This was a good idea. The handle was getting loose anyway. But I'm no good with lances myself.

Here, Wryz. You take it.

Wha?! You sure? I only just had a new lance made the other day...

Well, you are the one fighting on the front lines. It couldn't hurt to have a spare.

Either way, you're the only one of us who can wield a lance.

Then...I guess...I'll gratefully accept.

So this was your sword, huh?

But I can't decide! Which do I use? My brand-spankin' new lance, or Flaudia's lance? Do I switch 'em out day by day? Or do I try and duel-wield 'em?

I don't know, that seems like a pretty strange way to fight...

I'm just glad you're happy. It's up to you to decide how to use them.

Just watch me, Flaudia!

With this lance in my hand, I'm gonna be a legend!