Buried Honor

Buried Honor is the third part of .
==Steps==
# Wait until morning the next day (08:00 – 10:00)
# Meet up with the others at the game venue
# Enter the game venue
# Talk to the person outside the cell
# Head to the secret vault and search for the treasure
# Go further in
# Split up and look for clues
# Operate the device
# Attempt to solve the puzzle
# Investigate the area up ahead
# Defeat the uninvited guest
# Talk to Florian at a distance
# Meet up with the others
==Gameplay Notes==
* During steps 11–13, the active party will be limited to a trial Clorinde.
==Trial Character==
==Dialogue==
;(Pass time)
: Paimon: Let's go meet up with the group! Paimon's really looking forward to today's story!
;(Enter the game venue)
: Clorinde: Looks like everyone's here. Before we begin, why don't we finish where we left off yesterday? There was an important decision to be made, yes? I'll pour everyone a cup of tea.
: Paimon: I—Is that really the most important part, though, Clorinde? Paimon's more concerned about our current surroundings...
: Paimon: Heavy walls, cold railings, dim lights... This is obviously supposed to be a prison!
: Clorinde: I admire the work put into the set. Still, it's obvious the script writer has never paid a visit to the Fortress of Meropide.
: Furina: So this set... is going to be a part of the script?
: Clorinde: Unfortunately, that is something I can neither confirm nor deny.
: Paimon: Um, anyone think Clorinde's smile is starting to look kinda scary...?
: Lyney: Well, whatever happens, we'll just have to push on. But first, we should really figure out what to do with this treasure.
: Lyney: If we're worried about arousing suspicion because of our identity... Why don't we give ourselves a different name, just like Clorinde's Master did?
: Furina: Yeah, it might be better to keep a low profile. As long as we're helping people, it doesn't matter who we are or what we're called.
: Paimon: Um...
: Clorinde: Staring at me won't get you anywhere. Or, did you want some more tea?
: Paimon: Oh, um... Paimon's good! Thanks!
: Paimon: Why aren't you saying anything, Navia? Wait... What's that next to you?
: Navia: Oh, this is the short sword Clorinde mentioned last night. I found it!
: Clorinde: Huh, I'm surprised you managed to track it down after all this time.
: Navia: Well, I made sure to take good care of it! Considering the... circumstances in which you gave it to me, of course I had to keep it safe.
: Navia: Anyway, where were we? Oh, right, I was just thinking about all the potential ways for us to break out of prison! We could dig a tunnel, or try to bribe the guards...?
: Furina: ...Wait, we haven't been thrown into prison yet, have we?
: Navia: Well, it's only a matter of time! It pays to be prepared, just like how you should always have an umbrella on hand, even when it's sunny.
: Paimon: Alright! Paimon's made up her mind. Let's just give the treasure away!
: Paimon: Paimon may have wanted to keep it, but if that's going to land us in prison somehow, Paimon will be too upset to enjoy her snacks.
: Turns out Paimon cares more about snacks than treasure.
: Paimon's developing as a character!
: Clorinde: So, you've reached an agreement? Alright then, we can continue with the story.
: Paimon: Oh, and we'll collect all the scattered pieces of treasure on the ground as well!
: Clorinde: Alright.
: Game Master: You collect the treasure and make your way back to the capital with your bag of loot in hand.
----
: Game Master: The city is still shrouded in a gloomy, oppressive atmosphere, but your spirits are surprisingly high.
: Game Master: In places where sunlight struggles to reach, you generously share your wealth with the children, the elderly, and the poor in urgent need of help.
: Hunchbacked Old Lady: Thank you, kind soul...
: Game Master: The elderly woman's look of gratitude follows you as you walk away, her eyes never leaving your back until you move entirely out of sight. However, there's still quite a bit of Mora remaining. It appears you haven't made much progress.
: Furina: (She's probably trying to tell us to speed this up. We need to hurry up so we can address the sorcerer problem...)
: Lyney: Should we go find that man again at the square? He seemed like a pretty responsible guy. I'm sure he knows the people here far better than us.
: Paimon: Oh, good idea!
: Game Master: Just as you start to make way to the square, intent on finding the man again, there's a voice...
: Serious Guard: Please wait, distinguished guests.
: Game Master: Several strange guards suddenly call out to you. They run forward to meet you and proceed to politely pay their respects.
: Navia: Greetings, gentlemen! Are we being invited for afternoon tea?
: Serious Guard: Surely, you jest, my lady. That would not be our place. It is His Excellency the king, who requests to meet with you. Please come with us.
: Lyney: Hmm... Do you think this could be a trap?
: Furina: Well, we have to investigate the court at some point, right? Meeting the king himself would be a fantastic opportunity to do that.
: Navia: I say we go for it! If something happens, we'll just turn the whole place upside down!
: Paimon: Uh, that sounds a little intense...
: Game Master: After a quick discussion, you nod to the guards and agree to follow. They lead you all the way to the audience hall of the palace.
: Game Master: Gilded tables line both sides of the hall. The space itself is adorned with all manner of expensive antiques, glass shelves, and silver candlesticks. The items appear quite ordinary in size and dimension, yet their presence somehow makes the emptiness of the hall feel even more surreal and ominous.
: Paimon: Wow... It's so luxurious!
: Game Master: The elderly king, clad in a magnificent robe sits upon the deep crimson throne before you.
: Game Master: He wears above his head a majestic crown, with a gemstone the size of a bird's egg set right at the very front. As you observe it, you see a complex pattern of light reflect off its surface.
: ???: They're here, your majesty.
: Game Master: A man dressed in dark clothes, likely a minister, shields his mouth with his hands and bends down to whisper a few words to the king.
: Game Master: After a moment, he lowers his hands and stands back up. His gaze shifts to fixate on your group, but he does not move from his place at the king's side.
: Furina: (The king does not appear entirely aware of his surroundings. The man by his side, though... We should keep a close eye on him.)
: Game Master: The king remains still, and says nothing. The Minister is the one who speaks.
: Prime Minister: Esteemed guests, allow me to thank you for coming to our faraway kingdom. Unfortunately, His majesty the king finds himself quite exhausted from work, so please allow me, his prime minister, to welcome you in his stead.
: Prime Minister: I've heard tell that your group, the Marechaussee Hunters, used your exceptional ability with the sword to repel the monsters near the capital. Such a great deed deserves to be rewarded.
: Prime Minister: However, seeing that I was not fortunate enough to observe such a feat with my own eyes, you'll forgive me for seeking to verify the truth by speaking to you myself...
: Paimon: Well, we've got nothing to hide! You brought us here to talk, right? So, we'll just explain what happened.
:
: Paimon: ...The golems' blades were so powerful, they could cut down trees in a single swipe! It took a lot of effort to defeat them, even for trained swordsmen like us!
: Paimon: Well, that was enough details, right? Believe us, now?
: Prime Minister: Hmm... Your account does indeed match those of the survivors. Since you were the ones who defeated the monsters, that must mean... You are also in possession of the treasure they stole?
: Paimon: Well, we did take the treasure, but...
: Furina: (How did he know about the treasure?)
: Prime Minister: Ah, then I must ask that you return it at once. It belongs to the kingdom.
: Lyney: Wait, but didn't you just say that our great deed deserved a reward? Shouldn't the treasure be considered a part of that?
: Prime Minister: Hehe... Yes, yes. That was indeed what I said, but you seem to have forgotten a very important distinction.
: Prime Minister: Only that which is freely given by the king can be considered a reward. Taking the rightful wealth of a kingdom without said permission, on the other hand... is a crime.
: Furina: But that's completely unreasonable!
: Paimon: Yeah, that makes no sense! If it weren't for us, the treasure would still be buried underground somewhere!
: Prime Minister: Maybe so, yet the fact remains... You tried to dispose of the treasure without reporting it to the court and without receiving permission, yes?
: Paimon: Um...
: Prime Minister: What, no answer? Surely you're not insinuating that you, a group of legendary Marechaussee Hunters, sought to take the treasure for yourselves?
: Paimon: Argh, well, what about the king? Is he just going to let this guy talk for him for the whole time?
: Game Master: Clad in his magnificent robe, the king remains seated with his hands resting on either side of the throne, his posture rigid and unmoving. He stares forward with an empty look in his eyes, completely unmoved by the events before him.
: Furina: (From the look of things... could the Prime Minister be the evil sorcerer? Or... could both the king and the Prime Minister have fallen under the evil sorcerer's control?)
: Navia: I would like to observe the number of guards stationed in the hall.
: Game Master: The guards in the palace appear fully armed, their expressions solemn. Sensing the tense atmosphere in the room, they stand at the ready, each with a hand placed upon the hilt of their sword, as if prepared to draw their weapons and surround you at a moment's notice.
: Navia: There goes my plan to turn the whole place upside down, I guess.
: Prime Minister: It appears we've been visited by nothing more than a group of ill-intentioned imposters... What a pity. Guards, take them away, and throw them in the dungeons.
: Prime Minister: Before I decide your fate, however, I must first determine whether you have any accomplices outside the court...
: Paimon: Can't we try to slip away? Or maybe start some kind of riot?
: Furina: But if we try to fight the guards right now...
: Navia: Don't worry, at least we've figured out who's behind all this. Let's just play it by ear. If you're scared, Paimon, just hold my hand.
: You can have my hand, too.
: Paimon: Aww, thanks you guys...
: Game Master: You allow yourself to be led away by guards surrounding you on both sides.
: Game Master: It's only when you begin to feel drops of water falling from the dungeon ceiling, and smell the stench of death and decay all around you, that you finally realize you've stepped into a completely different world.
: Serious Guard: Stay here, and don't try anything funny.
: Game Master: The guards lock the cell door and leave without looking back.
: Lyney: Wait, sir!
: Game Master: Your voice echoes through the dark hall, but the only response you receive is the sound of water dripping from the ceiling.
: Paimon: Noooo... What should we do now...
: Navia: Carve out a new path of fate with our own two hands, of course! I draw my weapon!
: Game Master: You reach toward your waist, but find nothing there. You now recall that your weapons were confiscated before the guards locked you in the cell... the bag of treasure along with them.
: Navia: What about that knife I hid in my boot?
: Game Master: ...When did you hide it in there?
: Navia: When I was thinking about digging a tunnel!
: Game Master: Rejected. You failed to inform the GM of this course of action. Moreover, the guards would have conducted a thorough search before throwing you in prison.
: Lyney: And the keys to the cell aren't anywhere to be seen?
: Game Master: Correct. You don't even feel a lock hole on the cell door.
: Furina: Well, there goes all our plans...
: Clorinde: Indeed.
: Paimon: Huh!? Why are you the one saying "indeed"?
: Clorinde: Because that statement holds true for me as well. This is where the script ends.
: Paimon: What!? But that's a terrible ending!
: Clorinde: Hmm... Generally speaking, this should be the point where the script writer gives the players some kind of hint, or gives the GM some kind of code for how to move forward.
: Navia: I mean, maybe they just really wanted us to be immersed in the feeling of being in prison? Like, they'll only show us the way out once we've grown truly and utterly desperate?
: Clorinde: That is a possibility.
: Paimon: If only there were desserts and tea in real prison... Oh, wait, guess that's kind of how the Fortress of Meropide works if you're lucky.
: Furina: Oh, before I forget... Navia, the short sword you had with you earlier...
: Furina: I took a closer look, and the craftsmanship doesn't appear to resemble anything from this era. If I remember correctly, that style was last in vogue several hundred years ago.
: Lyney: Wait, Clorinde said that sword used to belong to her master, right? Does that mean... her master has been alive that long?
: Clorinde: I doubt it. The way she went about things often made her seem childish more than anything. I'd say the sword was most likely an heirloom passed down over time.
: Navia: Hang on, a precious heirloom passed down to you by your master, and you gave it to me just like that? You weren't worried I might lose it?
: Clorinde: Master left many things to me when she disappeared. There was the sword, an old key, and... a good amount of junk she probably just didn't want to take with her.
: Clorinde: I gave you the sword back then... because I didn't want our friendship to end.
: Furina: Wait, when did this happen exactly?
: Navia: ...
: Clorinde: ...After the duel between Mr. Callas and myself.
: Crowd: ...
: Navia: Before that, Clorinde would have meals with us and even stay over at the Spina some days. She was on great terms with Papa as well.
: Navia: After the duel, though... There was a period of time where we simply didn't know how to face each other. She entrusted this sword to me, and never came back.
: Clorinde: ...
: Navia: We were both sad, and conflicted, and totally overthinking everything as a result, haha.
: Navia: Whenever I looked at this sword, I couldn't help but wonder... If Ms. Petronilla had never introduced us to each other at that picnic, maybe part of the sadness I was feeling could have been avoided.
: Navia: ...Back then, it felt like I hadn't just lost a father, but a close friend as well.
: Lyney: No one can change the past. The most important thing is that you two found your way back to each other and can enjoy things like this together.
: Navia: ...Yep, you're right!
: Furina: I'm sorry, you two. I didn't mean to bring up any sad memories...
: Navia: Think nothing of it. No one here is at fault.
:
:Noise From the Door: *plop*
: Clorinde: ...Hm?
:
: Clorinde: Ah... Looks like the next part of our script is here.
: Furina: (Phew... Perfect timing. The situation was really starting to get desperate... and not just because of the prison thing...)
: Paimon: From Clorinde's face, Paimon really can't tell if it's good news or bad news...
: It speaks to her professionalism as a senior GM.
: Maintaining a poker face takes true skill.
: Clorinde: ...
: Game Master: Water continues to drip from the ceiling. In this lightless dungeon, you lack a reliable way to tell how much time has passed.
: Game Master: Eventually, you get used to the unpleasant odor of straw, mold, and rust, and find yourselves alternating between fits of drowsiness and despair...
: Game Master: Suddenly, you hear footsteps outside the door.
: Lyney: Heads up, everyone. Someone's coming.
: ???: Gather close, everyone, and keep your voice down.
;(Approach the group)
: Furina: Who are you?
: "Guard": I work as a guard in these dungeons, but my true identity is the same as your own — I'm also a Marechaussee Hunter.
: Paimon: Eh...!
: "Guard": Shh! I've already sent away the other guards, but if we make too much noise...
: Lyney: I understand. But, how can we be sure we can trust you?
: "Guard": The king has issued a formal decree. In light of the irrefutable proof of your crime, you're to be executed before tomorrow's sunrise. If you want to escape, it has to be now.
: Furina: Executed...? We barely did anything!
: Lyney: Monsters appearing at the same location as the treasure... Could this entire thing have been a trap?
: "Guard": There will be time for speculation once we're out of here... As for my identity, I have no way to prove that to you just yet.
: "Guard": Infiltrating the capital was difficult, and finding a chance to speak with you has taken a lot out of me... I could go on, but I think we can all agree that now is not the time for details.
:: (Well, it doesn't look like we have any other choice.)
: Navia: Have you seen our weapons anywhere, sir?
: "Guard": Don't worry, I brought them with me. They're just behind the door. Still, these weapons alone won't be enough to defeat the true enemy behind the scenes.
: "Guard": His faction is too powerful. The guards are all under his control, and he's even stationed a number of golems in various rooms throughout the palace.
: "Guard": To defeat him, you must find a secret vault. It is said that, within that vault, the Marechaussee Hunters of the past left behind a treasure with the power to defeat the sorcerer.
: Lyney: You're not coming with us?
: "Guard": No, I'll remain in the dungeons to deal with the guards. I'll try my best to distract them so they don't go after you.
: "Guard": As long as my identity is not revealed, I'll be able to aid you when the final battle comes.
: Furina: In that case, please stay safe.
: "Guard": Thank you for your concern. I will do my utmost.
: "Guard": As for the location of the vault... Here. This map should lead you there.
:;(Open "Treasure Map")
::"Treasure Map"
::
: Navia: Got it.
: "Guard": Alright, once I open the door, remember to stick close and refrain from making any noise. I'll lead you out of here as quickly as possible.
: "Guard": You now have the chance to restore the honor and legacy of the Marechaussee Hunters. So, please, get out there and reclaim what's ours!
: "Guard": And... Be sure to exercise caution.
: Game Master: With the help of the guard, you successfully escape the dungeons. Your sense of despair and anxiety both seem to fade as you continue your quest.
: Paimon: Wait, we didn't get to use our skills at all while we were in prison. Who knows when we're gonna get the chance to use that cool "summon" spell...
: Clorinde: That is a pity, but we can only continue to move forward.
;(Obtain )
;(Approach the location marked on the map)
: Navia: This should be the place marked on the map.
: Lyney: This bit of rock certainly looks suspicious!
: Navia: Well, I'd say an investigation's in order then! Plus, if all else fails, we can just blow it up!
:
:
: Paimon: Wow, you really meant that...
: Game Master: Before you lies a serene stretch of open water, its surface shimmering a brilliant shade of sapphire blue.
: Paimon: Well, guess this means it's time for a swim!
;(Approadh the marker after leaving the water)
: Clorinde: ...
: Furina: What's the matter?
: Clorinde: ...It's nothing.
: Game Master: As you step into the cave, you find yourself in an eerily quiet space. Before you lies a narrow passageway that appears to trail off endlessly into the distance.
;(Approach the mechanism)
: Paimon: Wow, this must be where the treasure is hidden!
: Furina: But, this door is blocking our way in... Huh, it almost looks like it's been here for quite some time. I've got to hand it to the Tabletop Troupe. They really went all-out with the props...
: Clorinde: Hmm...?
: Navia: Huh? What have we got down here... A kind of mechanism connected to the door? It looks like we might have to arrange it into a certain pattern...
: Clorinde: (A pattern on a stone door... That's something Master mentioned before...)
: Navia: Huh? Something wrong, Clorinde?
: Game Master: ...After a long, difficult journey, you finally arrive at the location indicated by your map. It appears to be an ancient site of some sort, where treasure likely awaits.
: Game Master: Your surroundings are exceedingly quiet and serene, as if the secret that slumbers here has never once been disturbed. If you listen closely, you can almost convince yourself you can hear the sound of its calm, gentle breathing.
: Paimon: Aww... That description makes Paimon feel kinda bad for disturbing this place.
: Lyney: We're doing this for the sake of the people, to free them from the evil sorcerer. I say it's time for this treasure to once again see the light of day.
: Navia: Lyney's right. We need to keep going. The future of the kingdom depends on it.
: Navia: The next part of the story requires us to solve the puzzle, right? Let's start exploring the area.
: Game Master: ...Yes. That should be fine.
: Clorinde: ...
: Clorinde: (Something feels off about all this. Guess I'll just have to improvise.)
;()
: Navia: I found something!
: Lyney: Found something here, too.
: Furina: Same here!
;(After activating the mechanism)
: Furina: It worked!
: Lyney: Something just appeared... Some kind of new mechanism, maybe?
: Game Master: By solving the puzzles, you prove yourselves worthy of inheriting the secrets of the past.
: Game Master: At the end of each puzzle, you're rewarded with...
: Navia: With...
: Game Master: A key...
:
: Furina: Oh, must be the key to the big door...
: Game Master: ...
: Clorinde: (This is... one of the Marechaussee Hunter keys that are passed down from generation to generation... It looks just like the one Master passed down to me.)
: Clorinde: (It is said that four keys in total are required to form the final, complete key. And it seems like... we just collected three of them. That must mean...)
: Clorinde: ...!
: Navia: Huh? What's wrong?
: Game Master: ...You hear a few strange noises. Suddenly, all the torches in the ruin go out at once.
: Furina: Huh? Wh—What's going on? Did we fall into another trap?
: Game Master: For the sake of immersion, please close your eyes, everyone. Without the torches, the space is now completely dark, and you cannot see anything.
: Paimon: But, Paimon can still see a little bit over here...
: Paimon...!
: Don't break other people's immersion...!
: Paimon: Oh, right, sorry...
: Game Master: Suddenly... you hear the sound of footsteps pierce through the darkness.
: Furina: Huh!? There's someone else here? Ugh... This is so unsettling! I can't see anything!
: ???: ...Tch. I've been discovered, then?
: Lyney: Wait! That voice, it's...
: Game Master: You recognize the voice as belonging to the "guard" who led you to this place. It appears he now covets the treasure for himself, and has come to stake his claim...
: Furina: (Oh, so this is just part of the script... Phew... Then I can probably relax.)
: Furina: Well, if we can't see anything, that means we can't fight to the fullest of our abilities. Should we... retreat for now?
: Clorinde: (Judging by the way he's holding his sword... He must be a real Marechaussee Hunter. But, this isn't part of the script.)
: Navia: Retreat? Ha! That's not the Hunter way. If it's dark for us, then it's dark for him! We choose to fight!
: Game Master: Your choice is noted. Please keep your eyes closed until I tell you the torches have been re-lit. This battle will be in the dark.
: Navia: You got it!
: Clorinde: Well then. Let us begin.
: "Guard"?: ...
;(While fighting the guard)
: Navia: I'd like to try to hit him with my sword.
: Clorinde: Your strike is successful.
: Navia: Hah, you're facing a veteran Marechaussee Hunter. You don't stand a chance!
: "Guard"?: Tch...
: Furina: I—Is he still standing? Goodness, he sure has a lot of HP...
;(After getting the enemy to 30% HP)
: Lyney: Is it over? Can we open our eyes now?
: Game Master: The enemy is strong and relentless, but the battle is nearing its end. The torches have not been re-lit...
: Navia: What about now?
: Game Master: Final strike!
: "Guard"?: Argh!
: Furina: W—Well? Did we get him?
: Clorinde: ...
:: (Why isn't she answering...?)
: Furina: Uh... Clorinde?
: Game Master: Warm fire flickers across the walls once again. Your vision is now clear.
: Game Master: In an impressive display of courage, the four of you successfully defeat the uninvited guest.
: Clorinde: (That look in his eyes... It's like he became an entirely different person as soon as I defeated him.)
: Furina: Huh? Mr. Florian...?
: Furina: (...Oh, wait! We're supposed to be roleplaying. I should stay in character.)
: Furina: Ah, ahem...! Speak your name, guard. Why did you lead us here just to betray us?
: Furina: ...Is this treasure really more important to you than bringing peace to the kingdom?
: Florian: Tch... What kingdom? What peace? Those were nothing but lies!
: Florian: I, Florian, am a true Marechaussee Hunter, descended from Hunters of ages past.
: Furina: (So, he's also using his real name... Or wait, was that the name of his character from the very beginning...?)
: Lyney: Then, I'm even more confused. If you truly are a Marechaussee Hunter, shouldn't you want to help us, just like you said before? Shouldn't we fight together for the sake of the people?
: Florian: What do you know? In this day and age... There's no glory to be had as a Marechaussee Hunter.
: Navia: What's that supposed to mean?
: Florian: My skills were passed down to me by my father. We lived a life of obscurity in the remote wilderness. Still, he devoted everything he had to being a Marechaussee Hunter.
: Florian: And what did he get in return? A life of poverty and pain... and a world that forgot all about him. When he died, not a single person came to mourn his passing!
: Florian: The Marechaussee Hunters were the ones who saved this ! We're heroes! We deserve more recognition and respect than this!
: Furina: (Is he talking about how no one in the capital seems to remember the Hunters and their legacy? I didn't expect the script to contain this level of social criticism...)
: Paimon: So, that's why you want to take the treasure for yourself? You feel like you're owed fame and wealth?
: Lyney: If you already knew where the treasure was located, why didn't you just come down here and take it?
: Florian: Because... I still needed the final key...
: Game Master: Ahem! Only a true Marechaussee Hunter is capable of passing through this final door.
: Game Master: As someone who sought to hurt others for his own gain, Florian lost that right long ago.
: Navia: Okay, but what is this treasure, anyway? We've got all the keys, right? So, can we just go in and take a look?
: Game Master: You're sure you want to go in?
: Paimon: We've been talking about it for so long... Of course we want to see what's inside!
: Furina: And we've already defeated Florian, right? So, he won't try to take it from us anymore.
: Florian: Tch... Pesky brats...
: Clorinde: (Watch yourself...)
: Lyney: Then, let's open the door together.
: Game Master: Alright. Your choice of action is confirmed.
:
:
:
:
: Game Master: Before you, the door to the treasure, sealed and undisturbed for more than a hundred years, finally swings open.
: Game Master: You hear the shrill wail of the door hinge as it rotates for the first time after years of disuse, almost like a sleeping giant letting out an extended yawn. You get the impression that the secrets buried behind this door might be just as heavy as the sound you just heard.
: Paimon: Ah! It's open! C'mon, let's go in. Paimon wants to see what's inside!
: Furina: Ooh, me too!
: Navia: Uncovering hidden treasure is the most exciting part of adventuring! What do we have here... Huh?
: Lyney: A stone tablet... And some shabby weapons?
: Clorinde: ...
: Paimon: You... You call this a treasure vault? Looks more like an abandoned warehouse!
: Lyney: Maybe the Troupe ran out of budget at the end?
: Paimon: They provided a super immersive experience at the beginning, only to drop the ball at the most important part... They could have at least filled this place with cardboard Mora or something!
: Navia: ...Wait, I get it now! Paimon, this is the real Marechaussee Hunter "treasure"!
: Paimon: Huh?
: Florian: Th—This is it? The Marechaussee Hunter treasure is just a stone slab and some broken swords? I can't believe it... I refuse to believe it!!
: Florian: Argh! Argh... Ahhhh!
: Paimon: Woah! Are you okay?
: Clorinde: ...!
: Game Master: The Marechaussee Hunter before you appears to suffer a serious mental breakdown. He needs to leave the room for a moment to collect himself.
: Game Master: One of you seems to understand the significance of the treasure already. If the rest of you wish to follow suit, you may remain here in the meantime and explore your surroundings.
----
;(Talk to Paimon, optional)
: Paimon: What is the "treasure" supposed to be...
;(Talk to Navia, optional)
: Navia: The names on the tablet...
;(Talk to Furina, optional)
: Furina: The old and broken weapons...
;(Talk to Lyney, optional)
: Lyney: "Walter"...
;(Observe Stone Tablet, optional)
:Observe Stone Tablet: A stone tablet that stands there quietly. A few peoples' names and deeds have been inscribed upon it.
;(Approach the marker)
: Clorinde: ...So, how are you doing? Feeling any better?
: Florian: I... What just happened...?
: Clorinde: Do you remember how you got here? Or what happened to your body just now?
: Florian: I... I remember now... I brought you here... Because I wanted to... Ah! The explosives in the cave...!
: Clorinde: You mean these?
: Florian: ...Huh? How did you...
: Clorinde: I could tell something was off the moment I stepped into this cave, so I kept an eye out. I've already dismantled the whole thing.
: Florian: Hah, so the strongest Champion Duelist in all of Fontaine saved the day once again... Guess I shouldn't be surprised. It would seem your skills as a Marechaussee Hunter are as sharp as ever...
: Clorinde: I deserve some answers, don't you think? Tell me why you wanted to lure me here.
: Clorinde: Everything you said earlier sounded like the truth. Luckily, your monologue was dramatic enough to convince my friends you were just roleplaying.
: Florian: I... I don't know... I just always felt like there was something in my heart that didn't belong to me... something agitated and angry... Tch, who knows, maybe it was my own anger all along... I could never really tell.
: Florian: The feelings about my father and the other Marechaussee Hunters are real. It just wasn't fair. I was angry... bitter that no one remembered them, or praised their accomplishments.
: Florian: I don't know when it started, but at some point, my anger came to completely consume me. At that point, I remembered the legend my father used to tell me, the one about the treasure...
: Clorinde: But if the treasure was all you cared about, why plant all those explosives? Wouldn't they just destroy the treasure, and bury you along with it?
: Florian: Ah... I can't remember. My head is a mess... It felt like... there was this voice telling me to "eliminate the Hunters," but now, it's gone...
: Clorinde: ...From your description, I suspect you were dealing with a "Devorator."
: Florian: ...A "Devorator"?
: Clorinde: Oh, your Master... Ahem, your father, I mean, never talked about it? It was a kind of monster that was active several centuries ago.
: Florian: No, I've heard of it, I'm just not sure why you suddenly...
: Florian: Wait, it can't be... The seal!
: Clorinde: The seal?
: Florian: My family... has served as Marechaussee Hunters for many generations. But the title and swordsmanship weren't the only things passed down over our line. There was a seal as well.
: Florian: My father instructed me to always watch over that seal and maintain it regularly. He said it had been passed down from a truly ancient age, and protecting it was our clan's most important duty.
: Florian: But, I neglected that duty after he died... I finally decided to come down and check on it one day, and that's where my memories become fuzzy...
: Clorinde: The Devorator would be a formidable adversary for any mortal being, even ones as capable as the Hunters.
: Clorinde: If you lacked the power to completely destroy it, you could easily fall prey to its influence and corruption. In light of this, some Marechaussee Hunters chose to seal the Devorator away in the hopes that a permanent solution would come with the passage of time.
: Florian: I heard it has the power to amplify the obsessions and desires in people's hearts, to the point where they overtake you entirely... Hah, it would seem I'm not just lacking in skill with a blade, but in mental fortitude as well...
: Clorinde: And yet, you were able to retrieve three of the four keys... If I remember correctly, each was entrusted to a respected and capable Hunter... How did you manage it?
: Florian: ...One of them belonged to my father. The second I stole from a different Hunter... And the third, *sigh*... was one that I snatched while the person was on the way home from the tavern. I nearly died in that alley...
: Clorinde: ...
: Florian: I know just how strong you are — it's as clear as day to everyone in Fontaine. I observed you from dusk to dawn, but could never find any opportunity to sneak up on you... I never even saw you drink a single glass of liquor...
: Florian: The only way I could think to obtain that last key... was to lure you here using your hobby, and then... Ah, I get it now... That monster... It wanted to bury you here alongside the treasure...
: Clorinde: ...I won't comment on anything else, but the script was good.
: Florian: Hah... Well, I did pour my heart and soul into it...
: Florian: The stories my father used to tell me... about the glory of the heroic Marechaussee Hunters... and how they came to be forgotten...
: Clorinde: It's more than just a story.
: Florian: Huh?
: Clorinde: You're proud to be a Hunter. You're still holding on to that part of yourself, no matter how small.
: Florian: Hah, I've done so many despicable things... I have nothing to be proud of...
: Clorinde: Then explain the purpose of the "evil sorcerer" in your story.
: Florian: ...!
: Clorinde: Isn't he the true antagonist? The one who sought nothing but his own gain and used the people as pawns to attain it... In your heart of hearts, he was the one you truly wanted to defeat.
: Florian: B—But I've already tainted my sword. I no longer have any right to...
: Clorinde: Wake up, Florian! Remember how you introduced yourself earlier.
: Clorinde: Do you really think the Hunters acted out of a desire for honor and glory, or to be loved and acknowledged by the people? What did your Father teach you about our order?
: Florian: ...
: Clorinde: You do not wield your sword for yourself, but to protect those you serve. There's nothing special about a blade. It's the intentions of the wielder that matter above all else.
: Clorinde: Do you still not understand? Even after seeing the "treasure" for yourself? The contents of that room... they represent the true legacy the Hunters left behind.
: Florian: ...You're right. I... I am a Marechaussee Hunter. It's time for me to redeem — no, to finally serve the people I vowed to protect all along.
: Clorinde: I wouldn't be so quick to push aside the need for redemption.
: Florian: ...I know. That's a charge I won't bother to defend myself against.
: Clorinde: Good. Then come with me, and help me see this script through to the end.
: Florian: Huh? See the script through to the end? But... But there's no more script left.
: Clorinde: Never finished it, huh?
: Florian: No, I mean... I wrote the script with the sole purpose of luring you all here. There was no reason to write beyond this point...
: Clorinde: Then we'll just have to keep writing it. The evil sorcerer still needs to be defeated.
: Florian: You mean... the Devorator? Uh... Are you saying I have to make up the rest of the script as we go along?
: Clorinde: Is that really so hard? You've already written most of it. Surely you can write an ending where the Hunters win and justice prevails? I'll be there to help you, too.
: Florian: ...You aren't afraid your party will fall into danger?
: Clorinde: I know what my friends are capable of, and they're all quite skilled. Besides, I need their help.
: Florian: Then... are you going to tell them the truth about all this?
: Clorinde: Ah, I don't intend to spoil the fun. Sometimes, protecting dreams and fantasies is more important than exposing the truth, don't you think?
----
;(Return to the group)
: Lyney: Ah, they're back!
: Paimon: That took a while.
: Clorinde: ...Ahem.
: Florian: Oh, uh...
: Florian: Ahem! My fellow Marechaussee Hunters, please forgive me, for I have sinned...
: Clorinde: (Tone it down...)
: Florian: (S—Sorry...)
: Florian: After crossing swords with you and witnessing your courage in battle, I have rediscovered my true self and regained my pride as a Marechaussee Hunter.
: Furina: (Oh! Do I smell a redemption arc?)
: Florian: I confess... I was brainwashed by the evil sorcerer. He asked me to lure you here so he could bury you in this cave...
: Paimon: That little... Wait... You're saying all of that wasn't you, but the evil sorcerer?
: Florian: That's right. He's adept at manipulating the hearts and minds of the people... I fell under his influence because I did not possess a strong enough sense of will.
: Paimon: Hmph! And how are you going to prove that you're a changed man? We're not going to fall for the same trap twice!
: Florian: Um...
: Florian: To be perfectly honest, I only came to my senses after seeing the "treasure." It reminded me of my father's past teachings.
: Florian: The "treasure" was actually...
: Navia: The names of all the Marechaussee Hunters from ages past and their weapons?
: Florian: Wait, you... already know?
: Navia: Of course! Don't underestimate a veteran roleplayer's exploration skills! Wait, I mean, Marechaussee Hunter Navia's exploration skills!
: Lyney: We just finished reading through the content of the stone tablet.
: Furina: That tablet recorded the lives of some fascinating people. For example, this Marechaussee Hunter called "Este"...
: Furina: She inherited the responsibilities of the Golden Hunter and passed judgment on many people. But, in private, she had a very easygoing personality. Her favorite pastime was singing and dancing with her friends, and she was said to have a beautiful voice.
: Navia: So she was just like you!
: Furina: Oh, you really think so...?
: Lyney: Well... when you put it that way, I suppose I also have a few things in common with this "Walter."
: Lyney: Working as an executioner, he supposedly used a countless number of tricks to confound his enemies in battle. If only I could've seen the feats of magic he pulled off back then...
: Paimon: Their lives were all so exciting! You could write so many cool books about their accomplishments. How could they have all been forgotten?
: Florian: Because... they chose to be.
: Florian: To hunt monsters that only appear in the shadows, you must also operate in the dark. To be a Marechaussee Hunter is to willingly give up on wealth and fame.
: Navia: Then this stone tablet must have been left behind by their companions.
: Florian: That's right. Few Marechaussee Hunters ever revealed their identity to the public. They always protected the from the shadows.
: Florian: The only time they spoke of their accomplishments would be at night, when they gathered with their fellow Hunters in front of the bonfire to share stories of the monsters slain by their hand.
: Furina: So... this tablet was created not so that the Hunters would be remembered by the people, but so that they would be remembered by each other.
: Paimon: No wonder this place was so well-hidden...
: Game Master: You regard the stone tablet in solemn silence. The names of your comrades etched onto its surface serve as a reminder that you are never truly alone.
: Game Master: The tablet proves that, although a Hunter walks a shrouded path, it is not a solitary one. There will always be those who walk beside you, a fact that remains as true today as in ages long past.
: Game Master: Their legacies shall continue to be passed down from generation to generation, as everlasting as the stone onto which their names are carved.
: Florian: (Father... You once told me that I should seek out the "treasure" if I ever became lost. So this is what you wanted me to find...)
: I've decided to trust you, Florian.
:: Florian: Thank you, my friend... You are very kind.
: I'd like to do an insight check on him.
:: Game Master: His eyes are sincere, and his words ring true. You can tell that every word he spoke just now came from the bottom of his heart.
: Florian: I implore you, everyone, please give me a chance to make up for all I've done. Allow me to fight alongside you, and defeat the evil that threatens the peace and prosperity of all the people in this .
: Navia: Well, I say we let you join!
: Furina: Sounds good to me, too. Everyone makes mistakes. What matters is what you do to make up for them.
: Lyney: I have no objections, but... Mr. Florian, do you even know how to defeat the evil sorcerer?
: Florian: Hmm... When he took over my mind, I gained some insight into his thoughts. Every time I thought of the treasure... he reacted with a strong sense of fear.
: Paimon: Huh? He's... afraid of the treasure? But there's nothing here except some broken weapons and the stone tablet...
: Navia: What if... The secret's hidden inside these weapons?
: Navia: GM, permission to "investigate"!
: Game Master: At first glance, the weapons appear absolutely ordinary, but as you observe them, you notice a faint energy emanating from within.
: Game Master: These blades have slain countless monsters. Though it's been a long time since they were used in battle, their edges remain sharp, as if they're simply waiting for the next worthy Hunter to carry on their legacy.
: Lyney: (So, basically, take these with us, right?)
: Furina: I'll take this weapon... Since it used to belong to Este. Maybe it'll find comfort in being held by someone who appreciates the arts.
: Lyney: Ah, good idea. I'll take Mr. Walter's bow, then. From one archer magician to another!
: Navia: ...
: Paimon: Paimon's gonna pick a cool weapon, too!
: Game Master: As you grip your weapons, you can almost feel the will of past Hunters coursing through your being. It's a feeling of courage, determination... a silent vow passed down from generation to generation that says, eradicate the monsters no matter the cost.
: Lyney: Mr. Florian, do you know where to find the evil sorcerer?
: Florian: I was able to see his surroundings when our minds were connected. I believe he's currently hiding out at the in the .
: Florian: We must be extremely careful. He's spent so long living among monsters that he has now taken the form of one. He will not be easily defeated.
: Paimon: Then why don't we explore some more and try to find some higher-level gear? We don't want to just fight him and lose, right?
: Florian: Oh, um...
:
: Florian: No, we have to strike now! He was greatly weakened when I managed to break out of his control. If we let him rest, he might have time to escape.
: Lyney: I agree with Mr. Florian. We've got to act while we have the advantage. Don't forget — the people of the capital are counting on us.
: Furina: Yeah, now that we've got a plan, there's no point in waiting. The longer this drags on, the worse it will be for everybody.
: Florian: Yes, yes! That's what's called...
: Taking the initiative.
: Catching your enemy off-guard!
: Florian: Yes... That's exactly right!
: Paimon: Alright, you've "persuaded" Paimon.
: Lyney: Mr. Florian, please lead the way.
: Florian: Of course. Follow me!
: Furina: (He had to set up so many scenes today, and now, he has to join in for this last part... I really don't envy his job.)
: Game Master: *laugh* Finally... you decide to slay the evil sorcerer and bring peace back to the kingdom once and for all.
: Game Master: As you walk away, you feel the gaze of the stone tablet at your back, as if all the Hunters of the past are wishing you success in the battle ahead and awaiting your triumphant return.
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