|
Spoiler Alert! These tabs contain full Fate Episode cutscene scripts with major spoilers about the character. View these tabs at your own discretion.
|
The Strength to Carry On
With the three-nation treaty officially signed, Gawain intends to climb a mountain before leaving Dalmore, and the crew insist on joining him. As they trek through the mountain, Gawain explains he used to follow his father's training regimen of climbing this very mountain every day. Gawain descends into a familiar gorge and gets attacked by monsters just as he planned.
A three-nation alliance now exists between Feendrache, Wales, and Dalmore.
But relations among the new allies weren't always so rosy. In the past, Dalmore broke a prior alliance with Wales.
That betrayal stuck with Wales, making it difficult to broach a new alliance.
It wasn't until Gawain and the crew thwarted a scheme perpetrated by an unknown cabal and Pete, the commander of the Dalmore knights, that talks of a partnership could resume.
Gawain's efforts won back the trust Aglovale had lost in Dalmore.
Realizing they shared a common enemy, it was more important than ever for the three nations to set aside their differences and join together.
That is how the alliance between Feendrache, Wales, and Dalmore came to be.
Gawain: I have somewhere to go before I leave Dalmore. Do you mind if I have a little more time?
Vyrn: Ah, visiting your parents, right?
Vyrn: Gotcha, gotcha. It's hard to leave home. Take all the time you need to say what you have to say!
Gawain: Hmph. You're jumping to conclusions. I already stopped by their graves.
Vyrn: Oh? If not there, then where?
The crew members follow Gawain's gaze to a steep mountain in the distance. They can hardly believe their eyes.
Lyria: You're going to—
Gawain: Yes. It won't take that long. Please wait for me aboard the airship.
Vyrn: You seriously gonna climb that thing by yourself? What if something happens?
Gawain: You're jumping to conclusions again. I'll be—
Vyrn and Lyria: ...
Gawain: Fine. Tag along if you want, against my better judgment.
Lyria: Huff... Puff... Are we almost there, Gawain?
Gawain: Unfortunately we still have some distance to cover.
Vyrn: Well, can we rest for a bit? I'm not gonna last if I gotta carry Lyria the rest of the way up.
Gawain: You should've listened when I said to stay behind.
- How are you not tired?
- Give me a piggyback ride...
Choose: How are you not tired?Gawain: I know this mountain like the back of my hand. It's nothing I can't handle.
Vyrn: Gee... So he's got a mountain of stamina too.
Choose: Give me a piggyback ride...Gawain: What! Pull yourself together, (Captain), and act like a captain should!
(Captain) grins at the agitated knight and says it was only a joke.
Continue 1Gawain: Hmph.
Gawain thinks for a moment. He then squats down with his back facing Lyria and Vyrn.
Gawain: Get on.
Lyria: Oh, but—
Gawain: The sun will set if you keep dawdling, and I have no desire to tumble down a rocky mountain in the dark.
Vyrn: Hehe. Well, if you're offering!
After Lyria and Vyrn get comfortable on Gawain's back, (Captain) and Gawain continue up the trail.
Vyrn: Boy, you make mountain climbing look easy.
Gawain: A knight of Dalmore mustn't be defeated by the very terrain he's sworn to protect.
Vyrn: Hm, so are all the knights of Dalmore good at mountain climbing?
Gawain: Yes. Among the allied nations, no army can march through mountains like we can. Even then, I am by far the most experienced.
Vyrn: Yeah, you're pretty much the best all right.
Gawain: Don't flatter me. I had to work for it.
Vyrn: Hm, it's not like you to be all humble and stuff.
Gawain: Hmph... Being out here in the wilderness brings back memories.
Gawain: We all have to start somewhere, and at one time I was no different from the new recruits.
Gawain: After Father passed, Pete took over as knight commander. He kept in shape by participating in normal knight drills, and at first that was adequate.
Gawain: But he could never reach Father's standards. Even to my untrained eye I knew his combat proficiency and tactical competency were lacking.
Gawain: I soon understood why he'd never surpass Father: Pete's work ethic stopped as soon as he left the training grounds.
Gawain: Father was different though. On the few occasions I peeked into his journal, I saw his personal training regimen.
Gawain: Knight drills were already harsh, and apparently he trained even more before those drills.
Gawain: Wheeze... I'll never surpass Dad if I can't handle a mere mountain!
Gawain: Curse this body! I will not fail!
His father, Lot, devised his own regimen, and Gawain followed it in hopes of sharpening his physical and mental qualities as a knight.
It was so punishing that he almost felt like giving up halfway through, but he succeeded on willpower and guts.
However, there were consequences.
Gawain: ...
Florence: I know you want to get stronger, Gawain, but aren't you being too reckless?
Gawain: Nothing worthwhile comes without pain. My body will eventually get the message.
Morgause: You're following right in your father's footsteps.
Morgause: Once he latches onto something, he has to see it through—
Gawain: Guh...
Florence: H-hey! What's wrong!
Morgause: He passed out from overexertion. Let's get him to bed.
Florence: Ugh, he should try putting himself in our shoes for a change.
Gawain nods off into a deep sleep after receiving a dose of healing spells from his mother and sister.
In the morning, Gawain slips away for training before his worried family wakes up.
He stands at the base of the mountain and makes a vow.
Gawain: I yield to no one. Supreme might shall be mine.
Gawain: I shall become a knight who stands above my father's legacy!
Gawain: From that day forth I followed his regimen without fail until my body was thoroughly forged.
Vyrn: Wow, it's amazing how you stuck it out every single day.
Vyrn flips through a book containing Gawain's training regimen with a sort of awe.
Gawain: Hey! What are you doing with my journal!
Vyrn: You showed it to us while you were talkin', remember? I guess your mind was somewhere else.
Gawain: Tch...
Lyria: It looks like your training got tougher each day according to the journal. That's incredible.
Gawain: I had slumps as well, you know. Whenever my health failed due to burnout, I had to scale back for a while.
Vyrn: You're more of a go-getter than I thought. It's like setbacks don't actually set you back.
Gawain: My father often said, "Those who put in the work will have their day."
Gawain: Whenever those words ring true, I feel as if I'm getting closer to him...
Vyrn: That's deep stuff. You're pretty talkative today, Gawain.
Gawain: Hmph. I have thoughts and feelings too. Why couldn't you have stayed on the airship like I asked?
By the time Gawain finishes talking, he arrives at the edge of a gorge, which is partially concealed by a forest of trees.
Vyrn: Are we gonna be safe? This place gives me the creeps...
Gawain: Don't worry. It hasn't changed since I last came here.
Lyria: Huh?
Gawain: There was one flaw in my plan. Completing my father's training regimen only brought me up to his level, not above it.
Gawain: Then I found this place. I made it out alive, and I was reborn in every sense of the word.
With a hint of fondness, Gawain looks down at the gorge before carefully descending into it.
In an instant, the forest comes alive.
The trees shake violently as enraged monsters burst forth from their hideaways.
Monster: ...!
Monster: Urnk, urnk!
Monster: Grrr!
Vyrn: Yikes! What's with the stampede!
Lyria: Look out! They're heading straight for us!
Gawain: Heh... I see some familiar faces.
Gawain: Excuse me while I limber up. Stick to the high ground, and don't come down until I'm finished.
Vyrn: But those monsters look kinda deranged, and there's a whole lot of 'em...
Gawain: Yeah, that's why it's called training.
Gawain readies his weapon and welcomes the monsters' onslaught.
Where a Hero Was Forged
As a seasoned warrior, Gawain is unsatisfied by the lack of challenge posed by the monsters, but it wasn't always that way. He tells the crew a story from his youth, about the time he slipped while training atop a cliff and fell into a gorge. In addition to being horrifically injured, he also had to fight off vicious monsters to survive.
Monster: ...!
Monster: Urnk, urnk!
Gawain: Hraagh! Away with you!
Monster: ...
Monster: Grugh...
Monster: Awoo!
Gawain: Gaaah!
Monster: Whimper...
Gawain: Sigh... That's it?
Gawain looks disappointed after defeating the monster ambush without breaking a sweat.
To the crew watching from a safe distance, the spectacle reinforces just how strong he's become.
Vyrn: Dang... He's a one-man wrecking ball.
Lyria: Um, Gawain? You said something about making it out of this place alive.
Lyria: What did you mean by that?
Gawain: It's a long story.
He cranes his neck upward at a tall cliff overlooking the gorge.
Gawain: I remember it was pouring that day.
Gawain: Fatigued from a full day's worth of training, I lost my footing and slipped off the cliff into this gorge.
Vyrn: Whoa... And you still walked away from it without a scratch, huh?
Gawain: Hah, after a fall like that?
Gawain: It's nothing short of a miracle that I was able to open my eyes again.
Gawain: Ngh...
Monster: ...
Monster: Hissss...
Gawain: I was in shambles. Broken bones, lacerations... Even bending a finger sent pain shooting through my body.
Gawain: Those monsters must've thought it was their lucky day. I was like a slab of fresh meat served up on a silver platter.
Gawain: This is no time to give in to the pain. Get up, Gawain! Move, damn it!
Gawain berates his body, and through sheer force of will, he manages to take a battle stance.
Gawain: Aaaah!
Gawain: If you're going to eat me, then come and eat me!
Monster: Roooar!
Monster: Urgh...
Monster: Hissss!
Gawain: If I don't win...
Gawain: (My life will have been for nothing.)
Gawain: Graaah!
Gawain withstands the monsters' attacks, desperately waiting for the chance to counter.
Gawain: You can't kill me! I will survive!
Gawain: Haah! Take this!
Monster: Ngh...
Monster: Shhh...
Gawain: Huff... Huff...
Summoning forth all his energy, Gawain defeats the two monsters.
But just as he gets a taste of hope, a dreadful sound snatches it away.
Monster: Grr...
Gawain: Haha... Hahaha!
Gawain: So be it. I'll go down swinging.
With more monsters coming out of the woodwork, Gawain's struggle to survive has only just begun.
Where a Hero Was Forged: Scene 2
A battered Gawain crawls home after fighting for days in the gorge, and his mother and sister chide him for his recklessness. Even so, he vows to return to the gorge for more training despite his injuries because he believes he has to risk his life in order to surpass his limitations.
After accidentally falling off a cliff, Gawain is battling for his life against hungry monsters.
Gawain: Don't look down on me!
Monsters: Gargh...
Gawain: Huff... Huff...
Gawain: Agh!
Adrenaline had allowed him to fight without pain, but now that the monsters are subdued, he's no longer distracted from the impact of his injuries.
Gawain: Aaaaargh!
The frenetic battle has opened his wounds even further, and the trauma to his innards has only gotten worse.
He loses count of the days as he crawls through the gorge looking for a way out. He finally discovers a slope that he might be able to scale.
Gawain: Now for the hard part...
Gawain hears a shriek from above him. He grits his teeth when he sees a winged creature circling in the sky.
Gawain: Do I really look that tasty?
Gawain: Try and take bite out of me. In the end, I'll be the one feasting!
Monster: Gyaaah!
Gawain: Come on!
Gawain psyches himself up by hurling more insults at the flying creature.
It dives at him.
The door to Gawain's residence creaks open and a broken, disheveled man flops hard to the floor.
Gawain: Moan...
Florence: Who is it?
Gawain: ...
Florence: Gasp! Gawain!
Mother! Come quick!
Morgause: Oh, my poor child! What happened to you!
Morgause: I need to clean and dress these wounds! Help me, Florence!
For the first time in days, Gawain feels a calm warmth envelop his body, and he lets his consciousness drift away.
It only takes a day for Gawain to wake up.
His lips curl into a smirk when he sees that his entire body is bound in bandages.
Gawain: Haha... I look like a monster.
Florence: You have no right to be laughing right now.
Gawain: ...
Florence: Well? Are you going to tell me how you got these horrific injuries?
Gawain: I... fell. It was a big fall.
Florence: Liar.
Gawain: It's the truth.
Florence: Gawain!
Morgause: That's enough, you two.
Florence: But, Mother—
Morgause: He doesn't want to talk about it, and you know how he gets when he's stubborn.
Morgause: But this time, whatever you're doing, it's too much. I want you to stop for me.
Morgause: You're a knight of Dalmore. Follow Pete's example and learn from him.
Gawain: ...
Morgause: For now, you just lie there until those wounds are healed.
As soon as his mother and sister are out of the room, Gawain lets out a deep sigh.
Gawain: (I don't enjoy worrying them, but I know one thing is clear.)
Gawain: (I need to fight with my life on the line. That's the fastest way to surpassing my limitations.)
Gawain, injuries and all, plans to return to the monster-infested gorge. In his mind, he sees this as the best path to attaining strength.
It doesn't matter how outlandish of a plan it may sound. Nothing will stop him from seeing it through.
Where a Hero Was Forged: Scene 3
Gawain concludes his gorge story by saying that the healing provided by his family had secretly imbued him with divine protection that allowed him to survive the harsh training in the gorge. As for why the monsters here are in such a frenzied state, Gawain says they're being affected by a nearby leyline, and he wants to secure it before the cabal finds it for their own evil purposes.
Gawain: I kept coming back here to gamble with my life.
Gawain: It wouldn't be farfetched to say that I'd lost my mind.
Gawain: But this gorge was responsible for much of my growth as a knight.
Vyrn: It musta been tough on your family though...
Lyria: They didn't say anything?
Gawain: No. One day they simply stopped bringing it up.
Gawain: Of course I knew they were still worried.
Gawain: But I had to get stronger at all costs. I didn't have time for their concern.
Gawain: And yet...
Memories of his impulsive youth causes Gawain to sheepishly smile. He runs his fingers along his chest.
Gawain: One time I took a particularly vicious hit from a monster. I thought my end had finally come.
Gawain: But when I saw how shallow the wound was, that's when I realized something.
Gawain: My mother and sister, without even knowing it, imbued me with a sort of divine protection when they were healing me.
Gawain: Ironically it was thanks to my family that I was able to charge into danger with reckless abandon.
Vyrn: So without that protection...
Gawain: I'd be long buried in the ground.
Gawain scans the area, wondering where the monsters might leap out from next.
Vyrn: What's the matter?
Gawain: I didn't come here to talk about my past.
Gawain: Back then all I focused on was getting stronger. I didn't care why the monsters were so strong here.
Gawain: I'm sure you can sense that the monsters in this area are different. Much more hostile.
Gawain: It's no doubt a side effect of the leylines.
Gawain: No one else in Dalmore knows about this place.
Gawain: So before anyone from the cabal uses this leyline for evil, I figured I should do something to keep it under wraps.
Vyrn: Well, you didn't have to do it all by yourself...
Gawain: Hmph. As I said before, no other knight in Dalmore compares to me.
I work faster alone—
Monster Horde: Groooar!
Gawain: But I feel generous today. There are more than enough foes to go around. Help me clear these monsters, and then let us find the leyline.
Lyria: Okay!
(Captain) and company enter the fray against the monsters so that they may pinpoint the location of the leyline in peace.
Where a Hero Was Forged: Scene 4
The crew defeats monsters inside a cave and find the leyline in its inner reaches. On the way back to Dalmore Castle to report the leyline's location, Gawain reiterates his commitment to stopping the cabal and asks the crew for their support. Gawain is heartened by their quick response, and he's happy knowing he has good friends.
Gawain: Back, you curs!
Monster: Gyuu...
Vyrn: Geez, they just kept comin'. Can't believe you used this place as training grounds...
Gawain: Fighting at death's door teaches you to discard your dependencies. It has its advantages.
Lyria: ...!
Lyria: I sense something strange inside that cave over there!
(Captain) feels it too—a disquieting melancholy that emanates from the hole. The captain nods, and they enter the cave.
Lyria: Gosh, it's big enough for monsters to call home—
Gawain: Lyria, stop! Don't take another step. A monster could attack at any moment. Stay behind me.
Lyria: O-okay!
Vyrn: I got a bad feeling about this! Looks like there's a whole swarm of 'em up ahead.
A mass of creatures catch sight of the intruders and charge at them like an angry tidal wave.
Gawain: Hmph. How foolish. They didn't have to throw a welcome party on my account.
Gawain: Teach them a lesson, (Captain), until they can stand no more.
- You got it.
Choose: You got it.(Captain) flashes a grin and charges into the monster horde with Gawain.
Gawain: Yaaah! Die!
Monster: Eergh...
Gawain: Phew... That was an exhilarating party.
Gawain puts down the last monster and returns (Captain)'s smile from earlier with one of his own.
Lyria: Is that the leyline?
Gawain: Sure seems like it.
Vyrn: Only one way to find out, right?
Gawain: Wait. Just knowing its location is fine. There's no need to wander too close to it.
Gawain: I'll let the archduke and Florence handle the rest.
Gawain: We'll seal the cave entrance so that no one else can get in.
With the leyline dilemma taken care of, they start their way back to Dalmore Castle.
Vyrn: That was a toughie, but at least we got to learn more about Gawain along the way.
Lyria: Being strong takes a lot of dedication and effort, doesn't it? I won't forget this lesson!
Vyrn: Yeah, but it was good communication that got the alliance with Feendrache and Wales done, remember?
Vyrn: And that's how Gawain got to make his comeback too. Dalmore must be sittin' pretty now.
Gawain: The old me probably would have deemed the union conference pointless.
Gawain: All I recognized was power. Power meant justice.
Gawain: But traveling with the crew proved my way of thinking wrong.
Gawain: Power without justice is ineffectual and should be discredited.
Gawain: I will honor the memory of my departed parents.
Gawain: With justice and power, Dalmore shall be restored to loftier heights.
The determined knight gazes at Dalmore Castle, which stands tall in the distance.
Gawain: I'm certain the cabal will resurface again in the near future.
Gawain: When that time comes, I shall call upon your aid. I hope you're with me on that.
Gawain bows. (Captain) responds with a hearty chest thump as if to say, "I got your back!"
Vyrn: Hehe, what are friends for! You don't even have to ask!
Gawain: Heh, friends...
Gawain: It's... nice to have friends.
Lyria: Yeah!
(Captain) notices a slight skip in Gawain's step, and it brings a smile to the captain's face.
Whatever hardships arise, they will confront them directly and overcome them together.
But until those moments of danger seek to threaten them, their friendship will continue to grow stronger.
The Arrogant Knight
One day the crew visits Dalmore, where Gawain sees his old friend who has become commander of the Dalmore knights, Glane. Gawain agrees to help train the knights for a while, but encounters a rebellious knight named Bertilak who insists that training is meaningless. The young knight challenges Gawain to a duel.
Gawain, (Captain), and company find themselves near Dalmore for a request.
Gawain helps the crew complete the work with unusual vigor. Once the job is done, he turns to (Captain) and clears his throat.
Gawain: Nice work, (Captain). But take it easy. You seem pretty tired.
Vyrn: Huh? You're the one who pulled most of the weight though...
Gawain: Your body probably just doesn't recognize how tired it is yet.
Gawain: A small amount of fatigue can easily lead to a large injury. Don't push yourself too hard.
Gawain: Fortunately, we're pretty close to my homeland. How about we drop by and take a break there?
Lyria: Ah...
Lyria: Y-yes, I think I'm feeling a little tired! Let's take some time to rest at Dalmore!
Vyrn: Hey, are you sure you weren't just hopin' to check up on your own country and—
Lyria: V-Vyrn! Shh!
Gawain: I heard that.
Vyrn: You can be honest with us, ya know! Figures you'd mature everywhere else but in that department.
Gawain: Tch. None of your business.
Vyrn: Well, whatever! Let's stop by for a visit! It's been a while since we saw Florence anyway!
Gawain: Yeah.
Gawain and company arrive to a very warm welcome from the citizens of Dalmore.
Despite the awkwardness in his demeanor, a smile lights up Gawain's features as he talks to the people of his country.
Eventually, the crew heads to where Florence, Gawain's sister, is.
Florence: Hehe, quite the popular one, aren't you? I feel so proud, seeing how much the people love and trust you.
Gawain: Florence. You were watching? You can stop the teasing now.
Florence: Hehe. (Captain), it has been a while. Thank you for coming, everyone.
Lyria: Long time no see, Florence! It's nice to see you again!
Florence: It's nice to see you too, Lyria. What brings all of you to Dalmore today?
Vyrn: Heheh. Gawain here was lookin' kinda worried about Dalmore, so we decided to drop by and check up on things!
Gawain: You little... Don't just blab everything to her.
Florence: Oh my... So you were worried about us.
Florence: Don't worry. This country is peaceful... thanks to you.
Gawain: Good grief... Don't say it like I did all the work.
Gawain: The knights, the sorcerers, Archduke Hyland, the citizens... It's because of these people that the peace in this land can be maintained.
Gawain: And of course... it's thanks to you too, Florence.
Florence: Gawain...
Gawain: In any case, I'm glad to see that you're doing well.
Gawain: I was worried there was trouble. (Captain) told me some disturbing news about the cabal.
Florence: Ah, you must be referring to Feendrache. I have received a report on the incident.
Florence: In cooperation with Wales and Feendrache, Dalmore is still looking into the cabal's activities.
Florence: Although our progress has not been too favorable thus far.
Gawain: I see... If anything else comes up, let us know right away.
Vyrn: Yeah! You can count on us to come flyin'!
???: How dependable of you, Gawain.
Gawain: Hm?
Gawain: Glane, is that you? You're looking as dejected as ever.
Glane: Haha. Actually, I'm pretty energetic today. You're the one who's looking the same after—
Glane: Ah, my apologies. Saying as much would be making light of your triumphant return.
Gawain: So now you're teasing me too, huh...
Lyria: Um...
Florence: This is Glane. He and Gawain were close back when they served together as knights.
Gawain: More like I tolerated him.
Florence: Gawain. Even friendships require manners.
Glane: Haha, it's fine. He's not completely wrong.
It's nice to meet all of you.
Glane: Commander of the Dalmore knights, Glane at your service.
Gawain: What? Commander? Last time I checked, weren't you the vice-commander?
Florence: Ah, I apologize for the late notice.
Florence: After Pete was dismissed from his position, I asked Glane to be the commander of the knights.
Glane: I'm aware that a man of my status is not worthy of being commander.
Florence: Please. there's no need to be so humble. It is thanks to you that our order of knights still functions.
Glane: Haha. I don't have many skills to boast of, but being able to handle trouble is one of the few.
Gawain: I see... So you're the commander now.
Gawain: That's a dangerous situation.
Lyria: Gawain!
Glane: It's fine, miss. In fact, I agree with him. He is not speaking ill of me.
Lyria: Huh?
Gawain: In terms of character, he is as noble as you, (Captain). He's saved my skin many times in the past.
Gawain: It would stand to reason, then, that a man of his virtue would be suitable for the position of commander.
Gawain: However, in terms of swordsmanship, Glane could never hold a candle to Pete.
Glane: He's absolutely right. I've always been more suited for dealing with logistics. I lack the strength to march at the vanguard.
Glane: That's how desperate the Dalmore knights have become... So short of hands that someone like me has to become the commander.
Florence: I'm sorry for forcing this upon you, Glane.
Glane: There's no need for you to apologize, Florence. Besides, I understand the importance of this role all of you have entrusted to me.
Glane: When we have finally raised a knight who excels in both swordsmanship and command, I will happily pass on my position and devote myself to back support once more.
Glane: Until then, I will protect the knighthood as its commander.
Vyrn: Heheh, you're pretty cool.
Vyrn: But I guess it is pretty dangerous when the knights that are supposed to protect the country aren't in peak form.
- The knights just need to train.
- What if Gawain became the commander?
Choose: The knights just need to train.Gawain: Heh, just as I thought, (Captain). Looks like we came to the same conclusion.
Gawain: How about I whip all of you into shape?
Choose: What if Gawain became the commander?Glane: Haha. That would be most reassuring, but sadly, unrealistic.
Gawain: Right. I would never leave the crew.
Gawain: But I can still help train all of you.
Continue 1Glane: Excellent idea! The knights would be glad to undergo your training!
Florence: But would it be all right with your crew, (Captain)?
(Captain) nods in reply.
Vyrn: No problem at all! We told you before, remember?
Lyria: We promised we'd protect Dalmore with all of you!
Lyria: If this training can protect your country and its people, then we'd be more than happy to help!
Florence: Thank you so much, everyone...
Gawain: All right, I guess we'll be here for the next while then.
Glane: Splendid!
Glane and the Dalmore knights partake in Gawain's strenuous training.
Overjoyed at the opportunity to be taught by the hero who brought two miracles to their country, the knights swing their swords with feverish devotion.
All except one person, who refuses to listen to Gawain's instructions.
Gawain: Hey, you! Why did you stop swinging your sword?
???: Wha? 'Cause this is dumb.
Gawain: What did you say...
Knight: Hey, Bertilak! How could you talk like that to Sir Gawain? He's taking time out of his day to teach us!
Bertilak: Shut up, small fry. Why don't you try winning against me in a duel first before talking?
Knight: Why, you little...
Glane: Come now, gentlemen. Bertilak, you seem to have something on your mind.
Glane: Why don't you share what has you so dissatisfied?
Bertilak: Sigh. This is nothing but a bother. Why do I have to listen to this guy anyway?
Glane: Because you're smart. I thought you might have noticed something I failed to pick up on. A rupie for your thoughts?
Bertilak: Well if you say it like that, I guess I could tell you.
Gawain: (What's this guy's problem? I can't believe he's talking to his commander with that attitude.)
Bertilak puts his hands on his hips dramatically and begins to speak as if he were the king.
Bertilak: Gawain. Glane. You two should already know that this kind of half-baked training is meaningless.
Bertilak: None of these guys have talent or strength. You're not gonna wring gold out of pebbles in the dirt.
Knight: Ergh...
Gawain: I see. It's true that they're pebbles—I'll agree with you there.
Knight: Oh...
Gawain: But they're only pebbles now.
Gawain: Polish a stone enough and it'll become a gem. I guarantee it.
Knight: Gawain!
Bertilak: Are you serious? I can't believe you said that with a straight face.
Gawain: By the way you're talking, it seems you believe yourself to be too good for my help.
Bertilak: That's right, I do. I've got something up my sleeve that can win against everyone here.
Bertilak: Something more amazing than anything that wimp of a commander will ever have!
Glane: Haha... Oof, that burns.
Bertilak: Why don't you stop wasting time and just quit being the commander already? We don't need someone useless at the helm.
Gawain: Hey, brat. Say any more and I won't be letting you off easy.
Bertilak: Oh yeah? What're you going to do, huh? You wanna have a duel, Mr. Hero?
Glane: Bertilak! That's going too far—
Bertilak: I wasn't talking to you!
Gawain: Whew...
Gawain: You think you're capable of winning against everyone here.
Gawain: That includes me too, right?
Bertilak: Yeah, that's right.
Gawain: Very well! Then why don't you prove it? Let's have a duel like you wanted!
Glane: Gawain! He doesn't bother me that much. You're not actually going to go all out on...
Gawain leans over and whispers into Glane's ear.
Gawain: Don't worry. I'll take it easy on him.
Glane: Are... Are you sure? Don't hurt him, all right?
Gawain: I won't. I swear it.
Gawain: Well then. Come at me, brat!
The Arrogant Knight: Scene 2
Bertilak uses a unique combination of magic and swordsmanship, but leaves in frustration when Gawain defeats him in a flash. Seeing Bertilak's potential, Gawain decides to help the knight become the best he can be. Meanwhile, Bertilak discovers a book at his house.
At Bertilak's provocation, Gawain takes up his poleaxe and gets into position. The duel between the two begins.
The moment Bertilak takes his place, Gawain advances and swings his weapon at him with incredible force.
However, his strike does not meet its target.
Bertilak's figure distorts like a shimmering heat wave before disappearing into thin air.
Gawain: Oh? So you can use the same illusion magic as Florence. Is that your special skill?
Bertilak: That's not all I've got. Take a look at this.
Bertilak's shape flickers again, and this time, it multiplies to three, then six different copies of itself.
Undeterred, Gawain cuts down the many clones, but Bertilak's true form is not among them.
Bertilak: Hah, is that it? None of your attacks are hitting me at all!
Bertilak: Take this!
The young knight weaves himself among his clones and launches attack after attack on his opponent.
Gawain parries his attacks silently.
Gawain: ...
Bertilak: Hahaha! What's the matter? Are you lost even for words at my strength?
Gawain: Yeah. I'm exasperated.
Bertilak: What?
Gawain: I can't believe you actually thought you could win against me through sheer numbers alone. I expected at least a little more from you.
Bertilak: Oh yeah? Well let's see you stop me then—
Gawain: Whew...
Gawain takes a deep breath, readjusting his grip on his weapon.
Exhaling, he thrusts his weapon at the clones with immense speed, over and over.
Gawain: Haaah!
Bertilak: Wha!
In no time, the numerous clones dissipate under the relentless assault.
Bertilak: Ergh!
Locating Bertilak among his fading fakes, Gawain knocks down the knight with a quick blow.
Bertilak: No way! You managed to defeat all of them in a single attack?
Gawain: Fool.
Bertilak: What'd you say!
Gawain: You bragged that much about your abilities, when all you could do is put out a pathetic number of clones that don't even hold a candle to hybrids.
Knight: Yeah, what were you thinking! Sir Gawain's a hero who defeated an entire army by himself, you know!
Bertilak: Tch... I... I know that!
Vyrn: Oh, there he goes...
Gawain: ...
Glane: Sorry that took up your time.
Gawain: You're not obliged to apologize for him.
Glane: Actually, I am a little. Bertilak is my nephew, you see.
Glane: I didn't want to cause trouble for you, but things didn't go quite the way I'd expected...
Gawain: Your nephew? I see... Now I know why he could use that magic.
Lyria: What do you mean?
Gawain: Glane comes from a family of magicians who excel at healing magic. That's why he's suited for back line support.
Glane: But Bertilak is different from me. He's skilled at using illusion and paralysis magic. Suited for the front lines as well as support.
Lyria: That's amazing. Just like Florence!
Glane: Haha, if only he was more like Florence.
Glane: To be honest, both Bertilak's and my magic are a little on the weak side, just short of the power of full-fledged magicians.
Glane: His insistence on fighting one-on-one is another matter of concern.
Gawain: I see... He must be a handful.
Glane: Well... His confidence isn't unfounded. His tactics are unique, something never seen before in Dalmore.
Glane: If he could learn to at least work with others, he would be of immense help to our country.
Glane: But he's at an age where all he wants to do is flaunt his own traits.
Glane: He doesn't train properly, and makes fun of other knights who can't do things the same way he does. He's a lone wolf.
Glane: With his lack of participation in our training sessions, I didn't think he would come today.
Glane: It makes me think that he came because he knew you were here, Gawain.
Vyrn: Then why'd he have to act the way he did? Makes no sense.
Glane: I really do wish there was a way for him to utilize his talents properly. One good experience could really help him come into his own.
Glane: After all, I might not have been on par with the other mages, but I was given the job of providing emergency aid on the war front. And that made me happy.
Glane: But with his impression of me, I'm afraid I wouldn't be much of a teacher for him.
Gawain: (A lone wolf who's arrogant and looks down on everyone around him, huh?)
Gawain: Glane. Can you leave Bertilak to me?
Gawain: Don't worry, I'll continue training your other knights as well. You have my word.
Glane: Huh? Are you sure?
Gawain: Yeah. After all, you and I both know the road an arrogant fool walks.
Glane: Right... Thanks.
Bertilak: Damn it! He made me look so stupid!
Bertilak: This won't do. I need more power. How do I get stronger!
Bertilak: Damn it all!
Bertilak stamps his foot in anger.
The shelf beside him shakes from his stomping. Numerous books fall off the shelf and onto his head.
Bertilak: Ow! What the heck!
The knight pokes his head out from the mountain of fallen books. In his frustration, he picks up a book and is about to hurl it.
It is then that the mysterious book in his hand catches his eye.
Bertilak: Hm? Is this... from Mother's collection?
Bertilak: Hah... Hahaha! Yes, this is perfect!
Bertilak: Hahaha!
The Arrogant Knight: Scene 3
The next day, (Captain) and company receive news that Bertilak had attempted forbidden magic, resulting in a dangerous situation where he is on the verge of being consumed by the power from the leylines. Gawain, Florence, (Captain), and the others work together to resolve the situation. Afterward, Gawain decides to take Bertilak with them on the Grandcypher for a while.
The next day, Gawain puts his heart into training the knights once more.
But unlike the previous day, there is no sign of Bertilak.
Gawain: (Is he sulking somewhere? He hasn't showed up at all.)
Gawain: (Though, I get how humiliating it can be for someone to break your confidence like that.)
Gawain: (I guess I'll go look for him and—)
Mage: C-Commander Glane! There's an emergency!
Glane: What's the matter? Take a deep breath and speak slowly.
Mage: Th-thank you...
Mage: I have received a telepathic message from Lady Florence that Sir Bertilak is in danger!
Glane: Bertilak?
Gawain: What do you mean?
Mage: Upon receiving news that the leylines were acting strangely, Lady Florence went to take a look at them.
Mage: An urgent message from her came soon after, stating that she found Sir Bertilak in need of urgent assistance.
Mage: However, since then, I have not been able to contact Lady Florence, and have no further information on their current status.
Glane: I see... Thank you for informing us.
Gawain: Where are the leylines located?
Mage: In the cave you once discovered, Sir Gawain.
Glane: Hm... Gawain.
Gawain: Right. I'll head there right away.
Glane: Thank you. Without Florence here, I can't afford to be absent from my post in case another emergency arises.
Glane: I will make preparations for a worst case scenario.
Despite his calm words, Glane's hands tremble ever so slightly.
Gawain gently places a hand on his friend's shoulder.
Gawain: Your judgment is correct. I'm glad it was you who inherited the position of commander.
Gawain: Leave Bertilak to me. Meanwhile, take care of things here for us.
Glane: You have my thanks.
With that, Gawain and (Captain) make haste for the cave.
Bertilak: Ergh... Damn it... Damn it!
Florence: Don't move. I promise I will get you out of here.
Monsters: Groooar!
Florence: Ugh... The power from the leylines must be attracting the monsters!
Monsters: Screech!
Gawain: Florence! Bertilak! Are you hurt? What happened?
Florence: Ah, Gawain... I'm glad you're here.
Florence: It appears Bertilak has used some sort of method to release power from the leylines. And now it is attempting to consume him!
Florence: I am currently suppressing the power eating away at him...
Florence: But energy is continuing to flow out from the leylines. If we don't put a stop to it, Bertilak will lose his life!
Gawain: What! This is crazy...
Florence: We can still save him! Gawain, take care of the incoming monsters so I can focus on my magic!
Gawain: All right. Help me, (Captain)!
Gawain: Hraaah!
(Captain) and company face the monsters, taking them out one by one.
Helpless to do anything but watch, Bertilak lets out a cry of anguish.
Bertilak: What are you doing...
Bertilak: Just... leave me...
Gawain: Quiet!
Bertilak: ...!
Gawain: Who said this was all for you? This is for our country and its people! We can't leave the leylines like this!
Gawain: Still, it seems you've forgotten that you're also a knight of Dalmore!
Gawain: And that means we're on the same team! It's only natural that I protect you!
Lyria: That's right! We'll get you out, so please hang in there!
Bertilak: What the heck...
Bertilak: I'm a knight... I'm supposed to protect this country. But right now, I'm just letting other people protect me...
Bertilak: A knight that needs protecting... will just be a hindrance...
Gawain: Tch. Now I know I can't leave you here.
Gawain: You really don't understand why we're protecting you? Haven't you heard of the importance of kindness?
Gawain: I'll be sure to beat it into your head later!
Bertilak: ...
(Captain) cuts down monster after monster, listening to the exchange and noting with pride how Gawain has grown compared to before.
After some time, Florence successfully seals the power of the leylines once more.
Florence: I have temporarily sealed your magic power as an emergency measure. All of the excess power will settle down before long.
Florence: Everything should be all right now. Can you stand, Bertilak?
Bertilak: Yes...
Gawain: Can you explain to us what happened?
Bertilak: I... I found a spell in a research book at home, and decided to try it...
Bertilak: It was a spell that was supposed to enable me... to gain incredible power from the leylines...
Florence: A forbidden spell.
Lyria: F-forbidden? So... it was a dangerous spell?
Florence: Yes. In exchange for obtaining great power, the caster of the spell loses their life.
Any version of
Zehek is a crew member
Hearing this, (Captain) thinks of a particular friend who now travels with the crew.Had they arrived even one moment later, Bertilak may have ended up like Zehek, inflicted with a terrible condition like the arcania taint.
The gravity of the situation is not lost on the captain.
Vyrn: But he's still alive, right?
Florence: It is likely that the spell was not carried out properly.
Vyrn: Well, that's a relief...
Vyrn: Works out, I guess. You're one lucky troublemaker though!
Bertilak: I know that! I messed up...
Gawain: You knew it might have cost you your life.
Bertilak: Yeah... I was prepared. I just wanted power...
Gawain: Why are you so fixated on talent and power?
Bertilak: You wouldn't understand...
Gawain: Is that right?
Gawain: Hey, (Captain).
Gawain: This guy's coming with us on the ship.
- Got it.
- Will you take care of him?
Choose: Got it.Gawain: Sorry for making such a selfish request.
Bertilak: Wha! You mean I have to leave the country? You haven't even asked if I want to go!
Choose: Will you take care of him?Gawain: I will. I'll even feed him.
Bertilak: What am I, an abandoned puppy? You haven't even asked if I wanted to go!
Continue 1Florence: I will inform Glane then.
Gawain: Thanks. I already told him that I'll look after his nephew, but I guess we should let him know the details.
Bertilak: Hey, Florence! Are you kidding me? You have to put a stop to this!
Gawain: I told you, I've got a lot to teach you.
Gawain: Besides, after endangering all of Dalmore like that, I can't just let you run loose.
Bertilak: Have you even considered how I feel about all this? Hey! Are you listening to me?
Gawain: Quiet down, will you?
Come on, (Captain). Let's go.
Gawain swings the struggling Bertilak over his shoulder and exits the cave.
Once they receive official permission from Glane, the crew take Bertilak under their wing.
As to what exactly Gawain has in mind for him, the young knight will soon find out.
Warm Guidance
Bertilak continues challenging crew members to duels on the Grandcypher. Gawain watches and tries to figure out why Bertilak is so fixated on one-on-one fights. Seeing Gawain so concerned over the young knight, Vyrn and Lyria can't help but notice how much Gawain has progressed himself.
Bertilak: Hey, (Captain)! Duel me! One-on-one!
One day on the Grandcypher, Bertilak calls out to (Captain) in a loud voice.
The captain hesitates for a moment before accepting Bertilak's challenge, sword in hand.
Bertilak: I'm going to win this time! Prepare yourseeelf!
Using his illusion magic, the knight charges at (Captain).
Bertilak: Gwaaah!
(Captain) dodges his attacks easily and makes the deciding strike.
Bertilak: Ack! Damn it, one more time! Duel me again!
(Captain)'s lips curl into a wry smile.
The captain wonders how many times the two of them have dueled since the young knight came on their ship.
Perhaps not quite over a hundred times yet, (Captain) thinks while continuing to parry Bertilak's blows.
Bertilak: Damn it! One more!
Vyrn: Wow, someone never gives up! They're at it again!
Lyria: I hope Bertilak doesn't burn himself out...
Vyrn: For always being up and about like that, the guy's got incredible stamina.
Gawain: And guts. I didn't think he would hate losing this much.
Vyrn: Haha. I mean, if it was just (Captain) it wouldn't be too bad. But he goes and challenges other people in the crew too.
Vyrn: Honestly, it's pretty impressive...
Lyria: And everyone ends up agreeing to it, one way or another.
Vyrn: Were you like that before you left Dalmore, Gawain?
Gawain: There are similarities, but I'd like to think I had a bit more consideration for others.
Gawain: Bertilak refuses to train, but he keeps wanting to fight other people... I'm not sure what's going on in his mind.
Gawain: He does watch his opponent and change his tactics through trial and error.
Gawain: Look, he made a feint.
Gawain: Now he's doing a counterattack after a dodge.
Gawain: None of that will be able to faze (Captain) though.
Vyrn: You're watchin' pretty closely.
Gawain: I guess so.
Gawain: (The more I watch, the more I feel it's a waste.)
Gawain: (He's got excellent skills for making sneak attacks, but he's too focused on one-on-one combat.)
Gawain: (Is it because simple victory won't satisfy him?)
Gawain: (Maybe... he's got something he wants to do that he can't give up on.)
Gawain: (I want to teach him the kindness of people, and I want to know what exactly his true intentions are. But...)
Lyria: Hehe.
Gawain: What's the matter?
Lyria: I didn't meant to interrupt. I just noticed how much you were thinking about Bertilak.
Gawain: What, can you read thoughts now too?
Lyria: N-not at all! I could tell by your expression.
Vyrn: Yeah, "Bertilak" is written all over your face!
Gawain: It is not. Don't be ridiculous!
Lyria: Hehe. You really have become such a kind person, Gawain.
Lyria: It makes me happy thinking about it.
Gawain: Heh. Well, all of you have helped me a lot along the way.
Gawain: I'm only trying to pass on what I've learned from you guys.
Gawain: (That's my way of paying everyone back...)
Gawain: (For all the kindness they've shown me.)
Vyrn: Heheh, oh yeah? How're you plannin' to pass it on?
Gawain: I was thinking... it might be good for Bertilak to experience some of the jobs I've done before.
Gawain: Will you let me know if there are any requests for work that you think he'd be able to handle? Anything's fine.
Gawain: The sooner the better. I don't want to keep him away from Dalmore for too long.
Lyria: Okay! We'll find something!
The crew begin to look for a job that Bertilak could help them with.
Fortunately for them, they arrive at an island a few days later, where the perfect opportunity presents itself.
Warm Guidance: Scene 2
At Gawain's suggestion, Bertilak joins the crew for one of their jobs. Though the young knight is disappointed when he hears the job consists of harvesting potatoes, with Bertilak and Gawain's joint efforts, the harvesting is completed in no time. After their client thanks them for their work and presents them with roasted potatoes as a gift, Gawain tells Bertilak that it can be rewarding to accomplish something together with others.
Bertilak is eager to participate in his first job with the crew.
However, his shoulders droop in disappointment when he hears what the request involves.
Bertilak: I can't believe it... We're harvesting potatoes for a job? Why can't we go exterminate monsters or something?
Gawain: What do you mean? Harvesting potatoes is hard work.
Gawain: Yanking the potatoes out from the ground is more intense exercise than you think.
Gawain: Besides, it's not like the client can do it herself, as she's hurt her back—
Bertilak: Fine, whatever. I don't really care.
Gawain: Would it kill you to show a little sympathy?
Bertilak: What use is sympathy for a knight?
Bertilak: Siiigh. I got excited when I heard we were doing some skyfaring work, but...
Bertilak: I don't feel like doing something so simple. You guys go.
Gawain: So you're saying you can't even handle a simple job?
Bertilak: What? No one said I couldn't do it.
Gawain: Then what's your reason for refusing the job? If you can't do it, just say so. You can stay here and nap all you want.
Bertilak: I didn't say I can't! What, are you saying you can? I doubt it.
Gawain: What?
Bertilak: You act all high and mighty as the hero of Dalmore, but you probably can't control your own strength. You're going to end up destroying all the potatoes.
Bertilak: Then it'll be even more trouble for the client. You're the one who should be taking a nap. I'll show you how to do it right.
Gawain: Oho... Then prove it. Prove you can yank potatoes out better than I can!
Bertilak: I will!
Bertilak & Gawain: Haaah!
Bertilak: Heheh. Get a load of this! No way you can catch up to—
Bertilak: Wait! How'd you get that many out so fast? You cheated, didn't you!
Gawain: Heh. It's going to take all day if you're pulling out the tiny ones like that one by one.
Gawain: I've done this kind of job before, so I know the tricks. You take this part and... hrrgh!
Gawain: The best way to get the potatoes out is to yank them out with their roots. See? You can get this many all at once.
Bertilak: Whoa! That's amazing—
Bertilak: I mean, I knew that! I was just... letting you do the talking!
Gawain: Ha, nice try. You were impressed by my—
Gawain: Wha! How'd you get so many potatoes out?
Bertilak: Heheh! I told you, I already knew how to do it.
Bertilak: I have a lot more out than you have, so I've obviously got more talent. I mean, look at your pile of potatoes. It's pathetic.
Gawain: What'd you say!
Bertilak & Gawain: ...
Bertilak & Gawain: Hraaah!
Vyrn: Um... This field was supposed to take us more than a day to harvest...
Lyria: It seems they've finished the job in the blink of an eye. Ahaha... That's amazing.
Bertilak & Gawain: Huff... Huff...
Vyrn: Sure it's amazing, but I don't see what the rush was for...
Bertilak & Gawain: He was trying to compete with me!
Vyrn: You two sure are gettin' along.
Bertilak & Gawain: Are not!
Vyrn: Are too!
Lyria: Ahaha... Hehe.
Bertilak: What're you laughing for? This guy and I are definitely not...
Elderly Lady: Hehe, thank you very much for your hard work.
Bertilak: Huh? Who's this old granny?
Gawain: It's our client, you dunce! Don't call her "old granny"!
Elderly Lady: It's fine! I'm happy to see you young ones being so energetic. I appreciate the help.
Bertilak: O-oh...
Elderly Lady: Thanks to all of you, it looks like I'll be able to send off these delicious potatoes.
Elderly Lady: You've saved my back quite a lot of aches and pains.
Bertilak: Uh... Right...
Elderly Lady: Here you go—a small token of my appreciation. I'll give you compensation for your work after too.
Bertilak: What is this?
Elderly Lady: Baked sweet potatoes. They're nice and tasty, I promise.
Lyria: Wow, thank you very much! They look so warm and delicious!
Elderly Lady: Enjoy! Thank you once again. Take care!
Bertilak: Hm.
Gawain: Not bad, right?
Bertilak: What's not bad?
Gawain: Being thanked for something. Accomplishing something with other people.
Bertilak: Whatever. It's... nothing special.
Bertilak: I could've done everything myself anyway. Then I would've been able to eat all your baked potatoes too.
Gawain: It's true. You kept up with me the whole way—you probably could've done it by yourself.
Gawain: But because there were two of us, we finished the job early, and we're not as tired. Those are facts too.
Gawain: And most of all, it feels nice, doesn't it?
Gawain: It's nice to work together with someone.
Bertilak: ...
Bertilak: I can't believe... you'd actually say something like that...
Warm Guidance: Scene 3
That night, Gawain has a talk with Bertilak. The young knight confesses that he wants to become someone who can bring about a miracle single-handedly, just like Gawain, so he can someday protect his country. However, Gawain tells Bertilak that a miracle is not brought on by a single person, but is only possible with the help of many friends and allies. With this new perspective, Bertilak returns to Dalmore and the other knights with fresh determination.
Night falls on the crew's day of potato-harvesting. Gawain calls Bertilak up onto the deck of the Grandcypher.
Bertilak sighs, knowing that he has been summoned for some training.
Bertilak: I told you, I don't need any training. I'm already perfectly capable.
Gawain: Ha, I don't know what you're talking about. You don't even have the basics down.
Bertilak: What? Yeah I do.
Gawain: Then prove it. Come at me however you want.
Bertilak: Tch...
Bertilak swings his sword as hard as he can at Gawain.
But Gawain blocks the blow easily, holding his poleaxe with one hand without even the slightest quiver.
The sound of Bertilak's blade scraping against Gawain's poleaxe echoes into the night.
Gawain: Straightforward and sure. You have good swordsmanship.
Bertilak: Are you being sarcastic?
Gawain: If you think I am, then you should know what to improve on.
Bertilak: Tch.
Gawain: You need to charge with more effort. Follow what I do.
Bertilak: Okay...
Bertilak: Haaah!
Gawain: Good. You put weight into it.
Bertilak: You're... actually pretty good at teaching.
Gawain: Please. These are the basics of the basics. Even Glane has them down.
Bertilak: Glane? You're kidding.
Gawain: I'm serious. He may be suited for back line support, but he's still commander of the Dalmore knights. Don't look down on him.
Gawain: These basics were taught at the beginning of his training.
Bertilak: ...
Gawain: Still think I'm joking? If you don't face reality, you're going to keep losing.
Bertilak: Shut up...
Gawain: Why do you skip out on training?
Bertilak: Because it's meaningless.
Gawain: You litt—
Bertilak: ...
Gawain: Go on.
Bertilak: Training and practice aren't going to bring about any miracles!
Bertilak: Lot! Morgause! Your sister, Florence!
Bertilak: And you! The miracles that all of you brought about... You didn't make them happen by spending all your time on mock battles and drills!
Gawain: ...
Bertilak: If the rest of us don't become powerful like you guys, Dalmore will fall someday!
Bertilak: We'll perish!
Gawain: Bertilak...
Bertilak: The stupid adults say all sorts of cowardly stuff—that we're going to be okay because we have the three-way alliance!
Bertilak: But the alliance isn't with Dalmore... It's with you!
Bertilak: If you're not here... we won't be able to count on the alliance anymore! Without power, Dalmore is done for!
Bertilak: That's why I have to... I have to become more powerful...
Bertilak: So the next time Dalmore needs another miracle, I'll be ready!
Bertilak: I'll be the hero, just like you were... By myself, without having to rely on anyone else...
Bertilak: I'll face down entire armies alone, and keep Dalmore safe... Just like you did!
Bertilak: Dalmore needs a new Gawain, one that'll always be there for us... and I'm not going to sit around and wait for that to happen.
Gawain: (So that's how it is...)
Gawain: You bragged that much about your abilities, when all you could do is put out a pathetic number of clones that don't even hold a candle to hybrids.
Knight: Yeah, what were you thinking! Sir Gawain's a hero who defeated an entire army by himself, you know!
Bertilak: Tch... I... I know that!
Glane: His insistence on fighting one-on-one is another matter of concern.
Gawain: (The reason why he tried to fight me with numbers is because he wanted to see how I brought about the miracle...)
Gawain: (And the reason he's so fixated on fighting on his own is because he saw how I fought by myself.)
Gawain: (Now I see. Still...)
Gawain: You just don't get it.
Bertilak: Wha!
Gawain: You really think the miracle happened because of me alone?
Bertilak: Am I wrong? I saw it with my own eyes! You were by yourself!
Gawain: I was the only one standing in that one specific location, yes.
Gawain: But I was able to defend that location because Florence and (Captain) were somewhere else, destroying the magic cores for me.
Gawain: I was able to take on the army because the knights led the enemy to where we wanted them.
Gawain: I was able to push on because there were mages waiting in case any injuries happened.
Gawain: And most of all, I was able to fight because our people, whom I wanted to protect, were cheering me on.
Gawain: It was because of everyone there that the miracle could happen.
Bertilak: ...
Gawain: The kindness of others is precisely what saved Dalmore.
Gawain: So no. I didn't do it all by myself.
Bertilak: I... didn't know that...
Gawain: You really want to become stronger—be the one to protect our country?
Bertilak: I do.
Gawain: Then dedicate yourself to your training. Learn the basics once more as a knight.
Gawain: Don't look down on the people around you. They're the people that will bring about a miracle together with you.
Gawain: Listen to Glane's directions, and cultivate new strengths and skills through continuous trial and error.
Gawain: Only then will you find the strength you've been looking for.
Bertilak: Yeah?
Bertilak: Are you sure? I might eventually surpass you, you know.
Gawain: Hah. Well, you're free to dream.
Bertilak: Hmph, you scoff now. But I'll become stronger than you in no time!
Gawain: Then you should at least learn to land a hit on me. Come on, do your worst!
Bertilak: You asked for it!
Vyrn: Phew... Looks like things are finally kicking off.
Lyria: Hehe, yes. Both of them look like they're having a lot of fun.
Smiling, the crew peers quietly at the two knights from the shadows.
Several days pass.
Bertilak finishes his journey with the crew and returns to the knights of Dalmore.
After hearing about the young knight's adventures from the crew, Glane takes out a large stack of papers.
Bertilak: What in the skies is that?
Glane: While you were gone, the other knights and I tried to think of ways to implement the improvements you wanted.
Glane: We wrote everything out. Hopefully we can figure out new combat formations and tactics that work from this.
Glane: Will you take a look? If we continue training and looking for solutions together, I'm sure we'll stumble upon the right ideas.
Bertilak: You... and the other knights too?
Bertilak: Everyone... did this for me?
Glane: Of course.
Bertilak: All for my sake...
Bertilak: Um... Thank... thank you.
Glane: Haha, you're very welcome. I'm glad it turned out to be a worthwhile journey for you.
Bertilak: And... thank you, Gawain.
Gawain: Don't worry about it. I was the same as you once.
Gawain: You're going to grow, Bertilak. I'm looking forward to it.
Bertilak: Yeah! Heheh. Just watch!
And with that, Gawain says goodbye to Bertilak and the knights before departing from Dalmore once again.
He stands on the deck of the crew's ship, looking out as his country grows smaller and smaller below.
A gentle smile appears on his face as he imagines the new heroes waiting to be born in Dalmore, and all the miracles they will bring to their country.