The Gathering/Story

The Chocobo Knight

Each on Their Own Separate Way

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I'm not strong enough. Not by myself. Humans need other humans. That is what General Wilhelm says.

Amelia

Leave it to me, Prince Shera.

Amelia

I will gather all the strength that you need... for the sake of Zoldaad.

The Man on the Chocobo

Master

Amelia. That's him right there. I'm pretty sure his name's Fohlen.

Amelia

That is the one from the tales? He does not appear to be from this land.

Punk

That's because our good knights protect the peace, don't they? Not much need for mercenaries around here.

Punk

He'll move on in no time. You mark my words.

Fohlen

Typical Grandshelt... Not many requests for my help in a place like this.

Fohlen

Not that I hate the knights here for putting me out of work. It's hardly a bad nation that keeps its people safe.

Child

Hey, mister... Are you really a mercenary from another country?

Fohlen

That I am. What can I do for you, junior?

Child

Well, there is something I need. But no one around here will take me seriously, since I'm just a kid...

Fohlen

Lucky for you that I'm not from around here, then. What is it you need?

Child

I... I don't have much money, though, Not enough for some famous globetrotting mercenary...

Fohlen

Well, I can't just stand by and watch someone suffering. Don't worry. Tell me what your problem is.

Child

I... I need water from the Lanzelt Ruins that lie beyond the mountains.

Child

I heard that it could make my big sister all better. She's real sick.

Child

But... it's too far away for me to reach on my own, and there are monsters, too...

Fohlen

Say no more! I accept the mission.

Fohlen

You don't need to worry about a thing now. Just wait right here till I get back.

Fohlen

Everything is going to be okay. You're not alone anymore.

Child

Wow! It's a real chocobo!

Fohlen

That's right. Chocobos are the best, kid. You can go anywhere with a chocobo. Now we're off!

Amelia

It looks like his character should not be a problem... It only remains to determine his ability.

Arrival at the Ruins

Fohlen

So these are the ruins? All right... let's do this.

Chocobo

Kweh! Kweh kweh!

Fohlen

I know, partner. I'll be careful.

Fohlen

Let's see... The water we were asked to get should be in the heart of the ruins here...

The Boy's Request

Friendly Memories

Fohlen

Mmm-hmmm. This has got to be it.

Fohlen

Boy, this kind of place reminds me of when you were just a chick, partner...

Fohlen

Remember? How I got lost playing in that cave and you helped me find the exit?

Fohlen

And we've been together ever since. I don't know who is taking care of who sometimes.

Fohlen

But I know... you'll always be looking out for me.

Chocobo

Kweh!

Mid battle

Punk

Aaaaaah!

Fohlen

This isn't good! I'll save you!

Crisis

Fohlen

Looks like we made it through that one. You're not hurt?

Punk

You sure saving me was a good idea? I peddle the waters of these ruins for a living.

Punk

And I heard you take that request. So basically... we're business rivals, you and me.

Fohlen

No one can stand by and watch another person in danger without trying to help.

Fohlen

I'm sure that the water you sell has saved many lives.

Fohlen

And regardless... I have no reason not to help you.

Start of a New Adventure

Child

Thank you so much, mister! Thank you!

Child

This... isn't much, but it's all the gil I have...

Fohlen

Ah, right... If you want to give your money to someone, give it to this merchant right here.

Fohlen

If you pay him, he'll keep selling you the water from those ruins until your sister is all better.

Child

Really?

Punk

You sure about this? Even a mercenary's got to eat. You shouldn't just give away your earnings.

Fohlen

If you feel any debt to me at all, you'll keep helping this kid, like I said.

Fohlen

That would be the greatest reward I could ask for.

Master

Hey, you. Chocobo-rider. I've got a message for you.

Master

Someone's heard how good you are. I've got a choice assignment for you from a certain personage in Zoldaad.

Fohlen

Zoldaad... You don't say.

Punk

I heard it's dangerous there. And a hard place to make a living as a merchant, these days.

Fohlen

Meaning there must be a lot of people there who need help. Sounds like just the place for me.

Amelia

Now then... where should I be off to next...

The Novice Swordswoman

A Novice Mercenary

Camille

Huh... Armor from Dilmagia really is the best, but...

Camille

It's way out of my league. With the kind of piddling little jobs I manage to get.

Camille

But if I don't have that kind of good armor, I can't ever get any of the really lucrative jobs.

Amelia

Are you perhaps a mercenary?

Camille

Yeah. For the time being, anyway. But you look like a good girl. What would you want a mercenary for?

Amelia

I just thought you might like to know... apparently there are a great many requests posted in the tavern.

Amelia

It seems there are orders for weapons flooding in from Zoldaad, or some such thing.

Camille

Ho! That sounds like just the ticket! I bet I could make some real money on a job like that!

Camille

Thanks for telling me! ...Huh? Where'd she go?

Camille's Struggle

Camille

Take a loot at that! There's enough work here to keep me living high on the hog for ages!

Camille

Is there some kind of war going on or something? I don't really like the sound of that, but a girl's gotta eat...

Camille

Yeah. I should be able to afford something better than the bargain bin with this kind of pay. So which one should I do next?

Tavern Master

You seem to be a hard worker, there.

Tavern Master

Most of the mercenaries who come through here, they do a spot of work and then waste all their reward like it's burning a hold in their pocket.

Camille

I'm not after money. I just want the strength to live on my own.

Camille

So how about it? Do you have another job for me?

Amelia

She has the will to keep working without giving up. But will she have the strength she needs?

The Persistent Swordswoman

Thief Eradication

Tavern Master

Now, now, hold your horses. No matter how much better you might be getting at this work...

Tavern Master

An entire group of bandits? On your own? That's got to be pushing it too far!

Camille

But if they aren't stopped... then won't it be the people of this land who suffer?

Camille

I've just got to do what I can. Even if I fail, I should be able to stop at least some of them. At least I'll have been some help.

Amelia

Is she simply rash? Or is it something more than that? I will need to see more to be sure.

Never Give Up!

Camille

Phew... In numbers like this, these enemies are a bit much to take on solo, even for me...

Camille

But I'm nearly through. If I just defeat their boss, even these bandits should lay low for a while.

Camille

I won't give up. I'm going to do this.

Amelia

I thought she might need rescuing, but... perhaps she can handle this after all. How promising.

To New Lands

Tavern Master

You actually defeated those bandits! You've got to be the brightest rising star we've had around here in ages, girl!

Camille

Oh please, leave off with the flattery. I just did what I could.

Amelia

That stubborn persistence... should be quite the useful commodity.

Camille

Oh! You're the one who told me about this place before!

Amelia

That's right. I have another bit of information for you this time.

Amelia

I've heard that Zoldaad is gathering together an army of mercenary soldiers.

Amelia

I think you're strong enough now that they would even accept you into their ranks.

Camille

You really think so?

Tavern Master

Sure, but Zoldaad... It's a wreck there, thanks to that tyrant emperor of theirs. It'll be far more dangerous than around here.

Camille

The more danger, the better the pay. And besides, it'll give me the chance to get even stronger.

Camille

Thanks again! It sounds like it'd be worth a... look... Huh?

Tavern Master

She's always like that. Don't you mind her. She might like to dress like a maid now, but she was once as merciless as any warrior I've ever seen.

Tavern Master

If she's recognized you as worthy, then you're among some pretty select company, girl. You'd better live up to her expectations.

The Faithful Doctor

The Doctor

Amelia

The Olderion Federation... I've heard their soldiers are well trained.

Amelia

All of the best soldiers volunteer. It might be difficult to find much more military strength here.

Pirate

I-I've been done in... by a sea beast... S-someone... please... help me...

Ilias

Easy now. Lie down here. And drink this, please.

Pirate

Hrmmm!? I... I feel so much better!

Ilias

You're not better yet. Please tell me what kind of monster it was. I can prepare the most suitable medicine, once I know that.

Pirate

Th-thank you, young'un. Around these parts, being a pirate normally means the only reception I get is a cold shoulder...

Ilias

I suppose it's lucky for you then that I'm not from around here. I'm a visitor to these parts. A chemist and a salve-maker by training.

Ilias

But no matter where you are, anyone should understand how precious a human life is. Now wait just a moment.

Amelia

It seems... I might need a bit of logistical support.

Retrieve New Materials

Ilias

Thank you for the information.

Tavern Employee

But are you sure you're going to be all right on your own, young man?

Tavern Employee

Even if Olderion might have once had the blessing of the waters, it's still a monster nest these days.

Ilias

Regardless... if there are new medicinal components to be found, then I can't ignore that possibility.

Ilias

If there is someone I can save in front of me, then I have to do whatever I can do to save them.

Amelia

I couldn't quite catch that. Where was he talking about going?

Tavern Employee

The Aquatic Cove. It'll be a tough journey for a lad as weak as that one seemed to be.

Amelia

Could you tell me how to get there?

Tavern Employee

Amelia... You thinking of getting back into the business?

Amelia

I never stopped.

Journey with a Cause

Into the Cave

Ilias

Aiiigh! Wh-wh-where are my smoke bombs!?

Ilias

Is that gunfire!? Where's it coming from!?

Ilias

Oh! that could be it! That must be the plant I've been looking for!

The Journey Continues

Tavern Employee

So that plant was nothing new for you after all? I'm sorry. I feel like I led you astray, young fellow.

Ilias

It's fine. At least I got to see for myself how widely it grows.

Ilias

Though... helping out so many people for free has not been easy on my savings...

Amelia

If you're feeling the pinch, why not head to Zoldaad?

Ilias

Who are you?

Amelia

Just someone who has already been working there. The war in Zoldaad shows no sign of ending soon. They could use a gifted healer.

Amelia

That country is probably the one place in this world where you are needed most.

Ilias

I see... Well, if you think I can be of some help, then I will go!

Amelia

It's a dangerous road, though. You might want to hire a bodyguard.

Many Obstacles Ahead

Ilias

Ugh. The road to Zoldaad sure is a long one.

Ilias

But... still, I can't just ignore the fact that war is raging.

Ilias

I've got to do my best if I ever want to be a great chemist like the legendary Mel.

Ilias

That's why... I'll do just like that woman told me. I will go to Zoldaad and find that mercenary.

When Fates Cross

When Fates Cross

Ilias

Um... I'm in the market for a bit of protection. Are you...?

Camille

You're... an alchemist? You look like you've been through the wringer! What happened to you?

Ilias

My name is Ilias.

Ilias

I cam e to this country to help care for the people suffering from the effects of war, but... I'm running low on supplies for my medicines.

Fohlen

So you want to go and gather more ingredients? If that's the case, I'd be happy to help you out.

Camille

Me too.

Amelia

It seems we are all assembled.

Camille

Hey, you're the one who gave me the tip about coming here for work!

Ilias

She advised me to come to this land, too.

Fohlen

It was also rumors from Zoldaad that brought me here. Is this really mere coincidence?

Amelia

I'm afraid that I cannot explain in full detail at this time.

Amelia

But I will also join you in this little expedition to gather medical supplies. Once that is done, we will talk more.

Fohlen

You know, I did hear another rumor... It was about a remarkable markswoman who had gotten out of the business, only to end up serving as some noble's hired help.

Fohlen

I think her name was... oh, yes. That was it. Amelia?

Amelia

I'm sure I haven't the faintest idea what you're talking about.

Fohlen

Right. Of course not. Well, good to have you with us on this little outing. Whoever you are, Miss Amelia.

A Journey Unwanted

Camille

I guess I never gave you my name. It's Camille.

Camille

And as for what I do... I fight. Very well. I normally make my living as a bodyguard.

Fohlen

I'm Fohlen. Just a wandering chocobo rider. Though I'm not terrible in a fight either.

Ilias

It's good to have you here. We never have enough medicine here to keep up with all the wounded.

Camille

And who are you? That gun sort of clashes with your outfit, doesn't it?

Amelia

My name... is Amelia. I work as a maid.

Fohlen

That doesn't exactly explain why you're so dangerous in battle...

Amelia

I think it would be better to stay focused on what is most important right now. Any questions you might have about me can surely wait.

The Gathering

The Dwellers in the Valley

Ilias

This should have us all set for supplies for some time. Thank you all for you help.

Amelia

Don't let your guard down too soon. This area is still not safe.

Camille

Was that... the roar of a monster!?

Fohlen

I heard screams, too. We should go and check it out!

All-Out War

Ilias

These wounds are serious! We've got to stop this bleeding!

Camille

The wounds are fresh, too. The monsters must still be nearby. I wonder if they're something we'll be able to defeat, just the four of us.

Amelia

It does look like we'll probably have the lesser numbers...

Fohlen

We'll be plenty.

Fohlen

Ilias will see to the wounded. And be our backup, just in case.

Fohlen

Camille and I will take point. I'll draw their attention, then Camille can take them out.

Fohlen

Just make sure you've got those fancy guns of yours aimed the right way, sweetheart.

Amelia

Of course. I'm not much accustomed to working with others, but... I'll give it a try.

Fohlen

All right, everybody! Let's do this!

The Gathering

Camille

What!? The crown prince has-!?

Fohlen

Shhh. Keep it down, would you? So you really are "Double-Drawing Amelia."

Amelia

I may have once been known by such a name...

Amelia

But I am now Prince Shera's loyal servant, and nothing more.

Ilias

And you searched us out because you needed more forces for your prince?

Amelia

I will not force you to do anything if you are not willing. But my prince does need allies.

Amelia

Allies with strong wills... and a desire to help the weak.

Fohlen

I'm on board. If you need someone who can get in and out of situations and get things done, then a chocobo knight is just what you'll want.

Camille

I'm interested as well. I've been a mercenary for a good long while now, and I'd like to fight for someone I belive in, for a change.

Ilias

I also came here to help the people of this country. If I can be of some service, I have no reason to refuse your offer.

Amelia

This is very good to hear... At last Prince Shera will have worthy allies at his side.

Fohlen

So what do we call you? Captain? Boss?

Amelia

No. This private force of Prince Shera's must operate in complete secrecy.

Fohlen

So in front of anyone else, you'll just be... Miss Amelia. Is that it?

Camille

It's a bit complicated, but I'm willing to give it my all!

Ilias

I will also do everything in my power to help.

Amelia

Thank you... Thank you all very much.

Mission Accepted

Mission Accepted

Ilias

So it's off to the Dark Continent next... And it seems Jake went off somewhere unbelievable as well.

Fohlen

That is true. Prince Shera and Miss Amelia are also worried for him.

Ilias

And little wonder. That land is covered with miasma. That alone could kill someone.

Ilias

I should prepare all the necessary medications. Sometimes it's best to expect the worst.

Fohlen

Well, as soon as you're done with your shopping, we'll get on the boat.

Arrive

Fohlen

Ugh... Is this the miasma you were talking about?

Ilias

Yes. It's even worse than I imagined it would be. I'm not sure that the medicines I have on hand will be enough.

Fohlen

Then there would be no point to us coming. Didn't we come to save Jake?

Ilias

There are lifeforms that live and thrive within this miasma.

Ilias

There should be plant life here on this continent which can neutralize the miasma.

Fohlen

Then let's start by looking for something like that.

Fohlen

If we get done in by the miasma ourselves, this thing'll be over before it even starts.

Life of a Mercenary

Ilias

I honestly never thought that a wandering healer like myself would ever be of service to the rulers of a nation.

Fohlen

I still can't really believe it either.

Fohlen

I have to say, though, I was impressed with Miss Amelia's determination...

Fohlen

...and I think I'll enjoy working with you and Camille.

Fohlen

Though it still rankles me that we couldn't be any help with Zoldaad's troubles.

Ilias

We will make up for it here an now. What we do now is equally necessary.

Fohlen

You're right.

Ilias

I wonder if Camille is all right. She arrived in Gronoa first, after all. I hope it hasn't taken a toll on her health.

Woods of Miasma

An Ominous Prescence

Ilias

No, this isnt' it... Nor this one... or this one...

Ilias

Oh? This has to be the plant!

Chocobo

Kweh!

Fohlen

What!? Careful, Ilias!

Fohlen

My partner here says that there's a nest of monsters around here!

Ilias

If we don't fight, we might end up done in by the miasma ourselves.

Fohlen

You're right... All right then. Let's do this!

Right Place, Right Time

Fohlen

It's gotten easier to breathe! It looks like it really worked to neutralize the miasma!

Ilias

Yes. It has worked just as the literature suggested it would. I was a bit worried, since I'd never used such a preparation before but... this has worked out nicely.

Fohlen

Now we should be able to go help Jake and the others.

Fohlen

I'm really glad we had you here with us, Ilias.

Ilias

It was all thanks to Miss Amelia that I joined the party.

Ilias

And really, Fohlen, you're the one who has been the true help here. Without your strength in battle, we never would have made it here.

Fohlen

That's what allies do, right? You help each other when you need it. Everyone has different skills.

Fohlen

So come on! Let's hurry onward. We've got to go save Zoldaad's saviors!