<Auto Linefeeds Off><VersionInfo HEADER="RADICAL DREAMERS 1.2" INFILE="rad-j.smc" OUTFILE="Radical Dreamers.smc">

<Label 0x000000>
<Satellaview Screen><ClearText><ClearBG><Call 0x000074><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00000D>

<Label 0x00000d>
<If 0x1493 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000019><OR 0x1513 with 01>

<Label 0x000019>
<If 0x1494 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000025><OR 0x1513 with 02>

<Label 0x000025>
<If 0x1495 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000031><OR 0x1513 with 04>

<Label 0x000031>
<If 0x1496 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00003D><OR 0x1513 with 08>

<Label 0x00003D>
<If 0x1497 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000049><OR 0x1513 with 10>

<Label 0x000049>
<If 0x1498 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000055><OR 0x1513 with 20>

<Label 0x000055>
<If 0x1499 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000061><Set 0x1513 to 40>

<Label 0x000061>
<Set 0x1514 to 78><Set 0x1515 to 26><Set 0x1516 to 28><TextSpeed 04><ClearBG><Goto 0x000DC4>

<Label 0x000074><set 0x1493 to 01><set 0x1494 to 01><set 0x1495 to 01><set 0x1496 to 01><set 0x1497 to 01><set 0x1498 to 01><set 0x1499 to 01><set 0x149A to 01><set 0x14A0 to 01><goto 0x0007CB>
<ClearText><ClearBG><FadeOut 70, 00><Call 0x00096A><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><Delay 01><27, 02><27, 00><27, 04, 0x00046B><FadeOut F0, 00><TextSpeed 00>

<Indent 0Dx, 03y>2003
<Indent 08x, 04y>SQUARESOFT / DEMIFORCE
<Indent 0Cx, 05y> PRESENT
<Delay 0F><FadeIn 90, 50><Delay 14>

<Delay 1E><FadeOut 90, 3C><Delay 19><PlaySong 01><TextSpeed 03><ClearText><Delay 23><FadeIn 90, 00> It was then that I opened the notebook my mother had
given me...<Delay 14> she said she found it while cleaning out the
closet.
<Delay 0A><Call 0x00096A><FadeIn 70, 5A><Delay 28><Delay 19> Crumbling and covered with dust,<Delay 0A> it turned out to be the
diary of my long-lost grandfather.
<Delay 28><FadeOut 89, 14><ClearText><Delay 14><Call 0x000970><Delay 28><FadeIn 90, 00>"....<Delay 0A>Do you still remember...?<Delay 19>
 How we first met, and all of our adventures since...<Delay 19>
 It all seems like such a dream nowadays...<Delay 0D> You were
a piece of a star that fell from the sky.<Delay 6b>
<FadeOut 89, 14><ClearText><Delay 37><FadeIn 90, 00> Whenever I want to return to those days long gone,<Delay 13>
I close my eyes and whisper your name into the evening
sky...

<Delay 28>    Kid...<Delay 28>
         Kid...<Delay 50>
<FadeOut 90, 14><ClearText><Delay 2D><Call 0x00097A><Delay 26><0E, 01, 12, 0F><FadeOut 70, 08><Delay 05><0E, 03, 05, 06><Delay 0F><Call 0x0009B4><Delay 23><ClearText><FadeIn 70, 78><FadeOut 80, 00><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 46><Indent 0Dx, 00y>  ...Kid...<Delay 17>
<Indent 0Fx, 01y>   ...Hey, Kid!<Delay 2D>
<FadeOut F0, 28><Delay 19><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x0009D5><FadeIn 70, 64><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 28>"Are you ready, Kid?<Delay 08>
 I know you're anxious, but stay on your toes."<Delay 31>
"Yeah, likewise, mate!<Delay 05> Mess up, and I'm leavin' ya behind!"<Delay 3C>
<FadeOut 89, 3C><Delay 05><ClearText><Delay 1E><FadeIn 90, 01><Call 0x0009E8><ClearText>"C'mon, Magil.<Delay 08>
 That bastard Lynx is gonna get what he deserves!<Delay 18>
 Say yer prayers...<Delay 05> Not that it'll do ya any good!"<Delay 45><Auto Linefeeds On>
<FadeOut 89, 3C><Delay 05><ClearText><Delay 14><Call 0x000A04><Delay 49><Goto 0x00046B>

<Label 0x00046B> -- fade out and fade in with the titlescreen
<Volume 0A, 00><FadeOut F0, 14><Delay 05><ClearBG><ClearText><PlaySong 00><27, 03><Call 0x000D70><Delay 87><FadeOut F0, 5A><Delay 17><ClearText><ClearBG><Delay 0F><Goto 0x000074>

<Label 0x00048C>
<27, 00><24, 8F, 00><FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0D><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 14><ClearText><Call 0x000988><FadeIn 70, 08><ClearText><Delay 24><FadeIn 90, 00><ClearText><Call 0x00099A><ClearText><Delay 2C><textspeed 04> And so, the curtain closes on another tale.<Delay 14><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0004ED> However, 
another time, after the spotlight had faded from Kid, Magil, and Shea...
<Goto 0x000568>

<Label 0x0004ED>
<If 0x149F doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00050F> However, 
another time, after the spotlight had faded from Kid, Mick, and the Martians...
<Goto 0x000568>

<Label 0x00050F>
<If 0x149E doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000510> However, 
another time, after the spotlight had faded from Gilbert, Riddel, and Noelle...
<Goto 0x000568>

<Label 0x000510>
<If 0x14A2 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00052D> However, 
another time, after the spotlight had faded from Kid, Magil, and Pollon...
<Goto 0x000568>

<Label 0x00052D>
<If 0x14A1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000556> However, 
another time, after the spotlight had faded from Kid, Gange, and Paradise X...
<Goto 0x000568>

<Label 0x000556>
 However, 
another time, after the spotlight had faded from Kid, Magil, and Riddel...

<Label 0x000568>
<Delay 30><FadeOut 89, 14><ClearText><Delay 1a><FadeIn 90, 00> ...In another place and another time... a similar band of adventurers had come forth, equally unsuspecting of their other selves, and life went on as they strode out into the great unknown.
<Delay 18> But, that's a story for another day. For now, I shall put down my pen."
<Delay 26><FadeOut 89, 14><ClearText><Delay 1a><FadeIn 90, 00><Call 0x0009A8><Delay 10><Delay 1E><textspeed 02> As I softly close my grandfather's diary, I hear my mother's voice call to me from downstairs.
<Delay 18>"Didn't you hear me? Your friend is here!"
<Delay 18> I turn around, already knowing who it is. My door opens quite energetically, where I see a strangely nostalgic young girl barge in.
<Delay 28><FadeOut 89, 14><ClearText><Delay 0A><FadeIn 90, 00>"Serge! We found some ruins of an old mansion up in northern Kitsune Forest today! Come on, let's go exploring!"
<Delay 25><FadeOut 8A, 14><ClearText><Delay 20><Call 0x000D0A><Delay 1C><Call 0x000D13><Delay 20><Call 0x000D1A><Delay 2b><FadeOut F0, 41><Delay 3C><ClearBG><ClearText>

<Label 0x00073E>
<ClearText><FadeOut 70, 00><Delay 04><ClearBG><If 0x14D3 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000751><Goto 0x000753>

<Label 0x000751>
<PlaySong 15>

<Label 0x000753>
<If 0x149F doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000763><Call 0x000D5E><Goto 0x000767>

<Label 0x000763>
<Call 0x000D1F>

<Label 0x000767>
<FadeOut 70, 00><If 0x14D0 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000775><04, FF, 00>

<Label 0x000775>
<If 0x14CF doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000780><04, FF, 01>

<Label 0x000780>
<If 0x14D1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00078B><04, FF, 02>

<Label 0x00078B>
<ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 1E><Delay 19><0E, 05, 12, 1E><Delay 1E><ClearText><If 0x149F doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0007AD><Call 0x000D6D><Goto 0x0007B1>4<delay 0a>

<Label 0x0007AD>
<Call 0x000D2E>

<Label 0x0007B1>
<Delay 7D><Call 0x000D31><Delay 67><Call 0x000D34><Delay 3C><Indent 00x, 00y><Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 78><ClearBG><Goto 0x0007CB>

<Label 0x0007CB>
<Call 0x00096A><FadeOut f0, 00><Call 0x000DB7><TextSpeed 00>
<ClearText><ClearBG><PlaySong 02>
 1) Kid: Le Tr<85, A0>sor Interdit +
<If 0x1494 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000829> 2) Magil: Caught Between Love and Adventure +
<Goto 0x000838>

<Label 0x000829>
 2) ...


<Label 0x000838>
<If 0x1495 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000857> 3) Kid and the Sunflower +
<Goto 0x000866>

<Label 0x000857>
 3) ...


<Label 0x000866>
<If 0x1496 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000891> 4) SuperXtreme Alphacosmos Police Case EX Ultra +
<Goto 0x0008A0>


<Label 0x000891>
 4) ...


<Label 0x0008A0>
<If 0x1497 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0008C6> 5) Homecoming: Shea's Light +
<Goto 0x0008D5>

<Label 0x0008C6>
 5) ...


<Label 0x0008D5>
<If 0x1499 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000907> 6) The Enigmatic Gigaweapon: Paradise X +
<Goto 0x000916>

<Label 0x000907>
 6) ...


<Label 0x000916>
<If 0x149A doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000941> 7) The Shadow Realm and the Goddess of Death +
<Goto 0x000950>

<Label 0x000941>
 7) ...


<Label 0x000950>
<If 0x1494 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000953><If 0x1495 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000953><If 0x1496 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000953><If 0x1497 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000953><If 0x1499 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000953><If 0x149A doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000953><If 0x1498 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000954> <85, 61, 85, 6E, 85, 6D><85, 74, 85, 72, 85, 48, 81, 40><85, 6C, 85, 94, 85, 92, 85, 88><85, 82, 81, 40><85, 73, 85, 84, 85, 92, 85, 93><81, 40, 85, 4A><If 0x14A0 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x000955>
 <85, 64, 85, 77, 85, 73><85, 71, 85, 60, 81, 40><85, 72, 85, 64, 85, 6A, 85, 71><85, 68, 85, 73, 81, 40><85, 61, 85, 6E, 85, 6D><85, 74, 85, 72, 85, 48, 81, 40><85, 79, 85, 84, 85, 91><85, 8E, 81, 40><85, 76, 85, 88, 85, 8D, 85, 86><81, 40, 85, 4A><goto 0x000955>

<label 0x000954>
 <85, 61, 85, 6E, 85, 6D><85, 74, 85, 72, 85, 48, 81, 40><85, 4D, 85, 4D, 85, 4D>

<label 0x000955>
<FadeIn 90, 3C><Delay 14><call 0x000B1D><fadein 70, ff><goto 0x000951>

<label 0x000953>
<FadeIn 90, 3C><Delay 14>

<Label 0x000951>
<Indent 00x, 11y><Waitpad><FadeOut F0, 50><Delay 17><ClearText><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><Delay 0F><Goto 0x000000>

<Label 0x00096A> -- book graphic
<ClearBG><26, 11><0A, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000970>
<26, 12><25, 0A><Delay 11><04, 22, 00><Return>

<Label 0x00097A>
<25, 0B><FadeOut 30, 78><Delay 1E><04, FF, 00><FadeIn 30, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000988>
<ClearBG><26, 13><FadeOut 70, 00><0A, 01><25, 24><Delay 01><FadeIn 70, 00><Delay 10><Return>

<Label 0x00099A>
<FadeOut 30, 00><04, 22, 00><25, 19><FadeIn 30, 3C><Delay 0F><Return>

<Label 0x0009A8>
<26, 14><25, 0A><Delay 0C><04, FF, 00><Delay 11><Return>

<Label 0x0009B4>
<ClearBG><26, 02><0A, 02><04, 2F, 00><04, 2E, 01><26, 07><25, 01><Return>

<Label 0x0009C4>
<ClearBG><26, 02><0A, 02><04, 2F, 00><04, 2E, 01><25, 01><Return>

<Label 0x0009D2>
<26, 24><Return>

<Label 0x0009D5>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 65><25, 20><04, 7C, 00><04, 7D, 01><04, 7E, 02><26, 46><Return>

<Label 0x0009E8>
<26, 4B><Delay 12><FadeOut 70, 78><Delay 1E><ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 66><04, 80, 05><04, 7F, 04><26, 4C><Delay 01><FadeIn 70, B4><Return>

<Label 0x000A04> -- something with the end of the intro
<04, 78, 00><26, 47><04, 7B, 01><04, 7A, 02><25, 22><Return>

<Label 0x000A12>
<ClearBG><26, 01><Delay 02><26, 4E><0A, 66><04, 80, 05><Return>

<Label 0x000A1F>
<26, 52><Delay 1E><FadeOut 70, 50><Return>

<Label 0x000A27> -- loads graphic data for the first in-game screen
<ClearBG><26, 00><0A, 04><04, 40, 00><04, 41, 01><04, 42, 02><25, 11><Return>

<Label 0x000A38> -- loads the terrace / garden screen?
<ClearBG><26, 05><0A, 06><04, 30, 02><04, 31, 03><04, 32, 00><04, 33, 01><04, 34, 04><25, 13><Return>

<Label 0x000A4F>
<26, 06><Return>

<Label 0x000A52>
<ClearBG><26, 00><0A, 07><Return>

<Label 0x000A58>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 08><04, 43, 00><04, 44, 01><25, 14><Return>

<Label 0x000A66>
<ClearBG><26, 00><0A, 09><04, 1F, 00><04, 20, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000A72>
<25, 15><Delay 0F><26, 0F><Return>

<Label 0x000A79>
<04, 21, 02><Return>

<Label 0x000A7D>
<04, 59, 02><Return>

<Label 0x000A81>
<ClearBG><26, 00><0A, 0A><25, 04><Return>

<Label 0x000A89>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 0B><25, 07><04, 01, 00><04, 02, 01><04, 03, 02><04, 04, 03><Return>

<Label 0x000A9D>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 0C><04, 27, 00><04, 28, 01><04, 29, 02><25, 0E><Return>

<Label 0x000AAE>
<25, 1D><Delay 04><04, 27, 00><Delay 24><25, 0E><Return>

<Label 0x000ABA>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 0D><04, 3C, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000AC3>
<ClearBG><26, 00><0A, 0E><Return>

<Label 0x000AC9>
<04, 37, 00><04, 38, 01><04, 39, 02><04, 3A, 03><Return>

<Label 0x000AD6>
<25, 05><Return>

<Label 0x000AD9>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 0F><Return>

<Label 0x000ADF>
<26, 25><Return>

<Label 0x000AE2>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 10><04, 2B, 00><04, 2C, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000AEE>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 11><Return>

<Label 0x000AF4>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 12><04, 45, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000AFD>
<ClearBG><26, 00><0A, 13><Return>

<Label 0x000B03>
<04, 00, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000B07>
<ClearBG><26, 0D><0A, 14><Return>

<Label 0x000B0D>
<FadeOut 30, 01><04, 17, 00><04, 18, 01><04, 19, 02><FadeIn 30, 28><Return>

<Label 0x000B1D> -- frozen flame
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 17><04, 35, 00><04, 36, 01><26, 0E><Return>

<Label 0x000B2B>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 18><Return>

<Label 0x000B31>
<26, 50><04, 73, 00><04, 74, 01><04, 75, 02><Return>

<Label 0x000B3D>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 19><04, 23, 01><04, 24, 00><04, 25, 02><04, 26, 03><25, 0D><26, 16><Return>

<Label 0x000B53>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 1A><04, 62, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000B5C>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 1B><04, 47, 00><04, 48, 01><04, 49, 02><04, 4A, 03><Return>

<Label 0x000B6E>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 1C><04, 4B, 00><04, 4C, 01><04, 4D, 02><04, 4E, 03><Return>

<Label 0x000B80>
<ClearBG><26, 01><FadeOut 70, 01><0A, 1D><04, 09, 00><04, 0A, 01><04, 0B, 02><04, 0C, 03><FadeIn 70, 10><26, 0C><Return>

<Label 0x000B9A>
<ClearBG><26, 01><Delay 02><26, 45><0A, 1E><04, 65, 00><04, 66, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000BAA>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 20><Return>

<Label 0x000BB0>
<FadeOut 20, 01><FadeOut 30, 01><Delay 03><04, 2D, 00><FadeIn 30, 58><Delay 2D><26, 17><Return>

<Label 0x000BC3>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 21><26, 0B><04, 05, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000BCE>
<04, 08, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000BD2>
<ClearBG><26, 1D><0A, 22><04, 3D, 00><04, 3E, 01><25, 10><26, 1E><Return>

<Label 0x000BE2>
<ClearBG><26, 01><Delay 02><26, 1A><0A, 25><04, 3B, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000BEF>
<26, 1B><Delay 1E><25, 0F><Return>

<Label 0x000BF6>
<ClearBG><26, 2B><0A, 26><04, 5A, 00><04, 5B, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000C02>
<26, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000C05>
<ClearBG><26, 20><0A, 28><25, 12><04, 4F, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000C10>
<ClearBG><26, 3C><0A, 29><04, 6A, 00><04, 6B, 01><25, 21><Return>

<Label 0x000C1E>
<ClearBG><26, 22><0A, 2B><04, 55, 00><04, 56, 01><04, 57, 02><04, 58, 03><Delay 16><Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 06><Return>

<Label 0x000C37>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 2C><25, 06><Return>

<Label 0x000C3F> - hallway facing right?
<ClearBG><26, 00><0A, 2D><Return>

<Label 0x000C45>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 2E><04, 70, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000C4E>
<04, 50, 02><26, 3D><04, 51, 05><04, 52, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000C5A>
<04, 53, 04><Return>

<Label 0x000C5E>
<04, 6D, 02><04, 6E, 05><04, 6F, 01><26, 3F><Return>

<Label 0x000C6A>
<04, 54, 02><26, 3E><Return>

<Label 0x000C70> -- load titlescreen graphic? no...
<04, 72, 02><Return>

<Label 0x000C74>
<04, 6C, 01><Delay 24><04, FF, 01><Delay 0F><04, 71, 01><Delay 1C><04, FF, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000C87>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 32><Return>

<Label 0x000C8D>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 33><04, 35, 00><26, 1F><Return>

<Label 0x000C98>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 34><Return>

<Label 0x000C9E>
<ClearBG><26, 30><0A, 35><04, 5C, 01><04, 5E, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000CAA>
<04, 5D, 01><04, 5F, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000CB1>
<04, 5D, 01><04, 5F, 00><26, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000CBA>
<ClearBG><26, 32><0A, 36><Return>

<Label 0x000CC0>
<ClearBG><26, 33><0A, 36><Return>

<Label 0x000CC6>
<26, 34><Delay 08><26, 33><Return>

<Label 0x000CCD>
<26, 34><Delay 08><26, 32><Return>

<Label 0x000CD4>
<ClearBG><26, 30><0A, 37><04, 28, 01><25, 1B><Return>

<Label 0x000CDF>
<26, 40><25, 1C><Delay 04><04, 27, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000CE9>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 38><04, 60, 01><04, 61, 00><25, 16><Return>

<Label 0x000CF7>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 38><26, 30><04, 60, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000D02>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 39><25, 06><Return>

<Label 0x000D0A>
<26, 39><0A, 3A><25, 18><Delay 14><Return>

<Label 0x000D13>
<25, 1A><Delay 0F><Delay 15><Return>

<Label 0x000D1A>
<26, 3A><0E, 06, 23>

<Label 0x000D1F>
<05><26, 41><0A, 3B><04, 68, 02><04, 69, 00><04, 76, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000D2E>
<26, 44><Return>

<Label 0x000D31>
<26, 4F><Return>

<Label 0x000D34>
<25, 23><Delay 02><04, 81, 03><Return>

<Label 0x000D3C>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 3C><25, 1F><Return>

<Label 0x000D44>
<ClearBG><26, 0D><0A, 3D><Return>

<Label 0x000D4A>
<04, 1B, 01><04, 1C, 02><04, 1D, 03><26, 0A><Return>

<Label 0x000D56>
<04, 1A, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000D5A>
<04, FF, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000D5E>
<ClearBG><26, 41><0A, 62><04, 68, 02><04, 69, 00><04, 76, 01><Return>

<Label 0x000D6D>
<26, 44><Return>

<Label 0x000D70> -- loads & displays the titlescreen graphics
<26, 01><FadeOut 70, 00><0A, 63><25, 1E><FadeIn 70, 00><Return>

<Label 0x000D7D>
<26, 26><Return>

<Label 0x000D80>
<26, 2E><Return>

<Label 0x000D83>
<26, 27><Return>

<Label 0x000D86>
<26, 4D><Return>

<Label 0x000D89> -- screen effect for when you hit an enemy
<PlaySound 12><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 01><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 03><Return>

<Label 0x000DA0> -- screen effect for when an enemy hits you
<PlaySound 0B><24, 15, 02><24, 73, 00><Delay 01><24, F3, 00><24, 95, 04><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 02><Return>

<Label 0x000DB7> -- fade out, and return with silence after a little while
<Volume 35, 00><Delay 1E><PlaySong 00><Delay 02><Volume 00, FF><Return>

<Label 0x000DC4> "<Set 0x1493 to 01><textspeed 00><Goto 0x00A7D6>" for mars, "<goto 0x018F7D>" for the goblin battle
<FadeOut 70, 00><27, 02><27, 01><ClearText><ClearBG><Call 0x000A27><Call 0x007373><Call 0x007474><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 0D>
<ClearText><ClearBG><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 21>
<ClearText>"Boy, did her information help. I thought the perimeter's counterspell would be quite a problem."
<Waitpad> Kid's braid sways gently from side to side in the cool nighttime breeze.
<Waitpad> So far, we've managed to slip through the magical shield network undetected and sneak into Lynx's domain. Still, this inner region can make for some pretty rough travel.
<Waitpad> Kid, Magil, and I comprise this party of three...
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 00><Call 0x000A27><FadeIn 70, 28><Delay 14><If 0x1493 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x000EC1><Goto 0x00112F>

<Label 0x000EC1>
<Goto 0x000EC5>

<Label 0x000EC5>
 However, while walking behind Kid, I can't help but notice her ponytail endlessly swishing back, and forth... back, and forth... back, and forth...
<waitpad> I'm starting to get sleepy... so, so sleepy...
<Delay 0A><FadeOut 48, 1E><Delay 03><FadeIn 4A, 0A><FadeOut 4A, 1C><Choice 0x00101D> *Mmm, sleep... 
<Choice 0x000F44> *I can't fall asleep! Not now!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x000F44>
<ClearText><FadeIn 50, 0A> It's too dangerous to fall asleep now, I keep telling myself over and over!
<Waitpad> Kid had a name for this sort of thing, but I can't seem to remember it at the moment...
<waitpad> Man, that was close. Shaking my head, I try to stay alert.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Still, all this is really something. Walking through a forest like this on a night like tonight reminds me so much of the first time I bumped into her...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x00112F>

<Label 0x00101D>
<FadeOut f0, 64><delay 20><ClearText><ClearBG><Delay 4A><Set 0x1514 to 50><fadein 90, 00>"...Serge..."
<waitpad>"Serge!!"
<Waitpad>"Huh!?"
<waitpad>"Snap out of it, lazy bones!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000A38><FadeIn 64, 1E><Delay 0A> Looking up, the tall, shadowy mansion of Lord Lynx looms before me. I can't believe we're there already... I must have been really out of it.
<waitpad>"The hell were you daydreamin' about, mate? Let's go!" Kid says, disappearing into the mansion.
<Waitpad>"Hey, wait up, Kid!" I shout, frantically chasing after her. However, she's already deep inside.
<Waitpad> The darkness engulfs me...
<Waitpad><Delay 0D><FadeOut F0, 50><ClearBG><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x003C23>

<Label 0x00112F>
<ClearText> It's been something like three years since Kid and I met. Back then I was a drifter, wandering wherever my music led me. During my stay in the remote town of Regiorra, I ended up running into a girl who later joined me, leading to the beginning of all this.
<Waitpad> That girl was Kid...
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 10> Kid is a thief, of course.
<Waitpad> Not even seventeen years old, already she's widely renowned as a top professional. To make matters worse, she's cute, devilishly stylish, and has a sparkling personality. And boy, can she cook... if you ask her, that is.
<Waitpad><Cleartext> Well, to be completely honest, she has her share of problems as well. She likes to think of herself as a kind of Robin Hood, stealing from the rich and giving to the poor, but that's just not the case.
<waitpad><Cleartext> At times her sharp tongue can get the best of her, viciously lashing out at anyone who stands in her way. She exaggerates every other word, and sometimes lies outright... and as for listening to other people, well, forget it.
<waitpad><cleartext> When it comes to money, well, I've never met anyone greedier in my life. Her relentless pursuit of wealth is ironic, considering she's a nomad, like me...
<Waitpad> I don't know, maybe I'm being too hard on her. She has her good points, too. She can really shine sometimes, when she wants to...
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 10> Glancing back over my shoulder, I notice a silhouette silently emerge from the grove.
<Waitpad> Magil...
<Waitpad>
<ClearText> This associate of Kid's is known to us only as `Magil of the Shadows'.
<waitpad> I know next to nothing about him, except for the fact that he somehow knew Kid before I came into the picture.
<Waitpad> A high-class magician of some sort, he looks to be about thirty. He usually keeps to himself, though.
<waitpad> The top half of his face is covered with a mask at all times. I've never even seen what he really looks like.
<Waitpad><ClearText> At times, it seems as though I'm hanging around someone from another world -- traveling with this pack is definitely an interesting experience.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Kid's quiet about her past too, but it's like I know her entire life story compared to how little I know about Magil.
<waitpad> From time to time I find myself wondering who he is, where he came from, and so on. I'd ask Kid, but I get the impression she knows as little about him as I do.
<Waitpad><ClearText> You might be wondering, how did I end up where I am now? Well, there's a lot of reasons, I suppose...
<If 0x1493 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00155C><Waitpad> I guess you could say that life doesn't always go how you plan.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x001DB0>

<Label 0x00155C>
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x0015E1> *I guess you could say that life doesn't always go how you plan. 
<Choice 0x0016C8> *It's like the old saying, `April showers bring May flowers'. 
<Choice 0x0017F5> *Well, once you fall off the horse, it's hard to get back on.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0015E1>
<ClearText> My life definitely hasn't turned out the way I thought it would... not that it's been a terribly bad life, at least not so far, but still...
<waitpad> Remembering back to when Kid and I first met, my face breaks into a wry smile.
<Waitpad>"Hey mate, what's with the funny face all of a sudden?"
<Waitpad>"Oh, nothing... I was just thinking how strange life is."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Life? What're ya thinkin' about all that for? You sure yer not turnin' into some kinda pansy or somethin', are ya Serge?" she says over her shoulder before rushing on ahead.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0019AE>

<Label 0x0016C8>
<ClearText>"For example, lately it's been pouring down hard. But someday, the sun's bound to start shining on me! It'll come someday, I'm sure of it!"
<Waitpad>"Yeah, likewise! For now, I'm just a small time thief," Kid adds. "But someday, I'm gonna strike it rich... and then, watch out! Heh, heh... ahahahahaha...!"
<waitpad><Add 12 to 0x1515><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0016C3><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x0016C3>
<ClearText><Goto 0x0019AE>

<Label 0x0017F5>
<ClearText> Life is like a stone on the side of a hill. If it comes loose, there's really no chance of it stopping until it's tumbled all the way down to the bottom.
<Waitpad>"What're ya talkin' about? It's like yer sayin' we're messin' up yer life just by bein' here!"
<Waitpad> Gulp...
<Waitpad>"H, how did you know what I was thinking, Kid?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Because you were saying it, not thinking it," Magil says from behind.
<Waitpad> Oh no... what have I been saying!?
<Waitpad>"If you don't like bein' with us, why don't ya do us a favor and take a hike! Hmm? We could do just fine without a third wheel!" Kid shouts, stomping away angrily.
<Waitpad>"Kid, wait up!" I call out, running after her.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 14 from 0x1515><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0019AA><Set 0x1515 to 01>

<Label 0x0019AA>
<Goto 0x0019AE>

<Label 0x0019AE>
<If 0x1493 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0019BA><Goto 0x001DB0>

<Label 0x0019BA>
"Hey, what's that bright flash over there?" Kid suddenly asks, pointing towards a thicket in front of us.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Huh? I don't see anything..."
<waitpad> I look around closely, but all I see is a bunch of trees and rocks, extending on into the darkness.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It was a bright flash. It was right over there, I tell ya!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x001AC8> *Go check it out. 
<Choice 0x001C93> *Pay it no mind and insist we move on.
<Start Clock><ClearText>

<Label 0x001AC8>
<ClearText> I walk over beside Kid, trying to see whatever it was she saw. Magil approaches as well a moment later.
<waitpad>"We are already fairly deep into Lord Lynx's territory," he says. "It's dangerous to start blindly wandering around. You are aware of that fact, are you not?"
<waitpad> However, Kid doesn't budge an inch, keeping her eyes on the bush.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Do you feel something here?" Magil asks, changing his expression a moment later.
<Waitpad> Kid's eyes meet Magil's for a moment, but before long she returns her focus to the forest.
<Waitpad>"So be it," he finally says. "If we are intended to stray from the path, this may prove to be worth something in its own regard."
<Waitpad><ClearText> But before Magil even finishes speaking, Kid bolts, disappearing into the trees!
<PlaySound 32><PlaySound 32><Waitpad>"Hey, wait up!"
<waitpad>"Be careful, Serge. Foul things lie down this path..."
<Waitpad> Nodding, I cautiously start to make my way through the trees.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Set 0x14A2 to 01><Goto 0x020B73>

<Label 0x001C93>
<ClearText>"I don't know, Kid... this is Lynx's property. Who knows what kinds of things are lurking around here at night..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hmph. It's prolly somethin' valuable no doubt, but oh well... the Flame is more important."
<Waitpad> Puffing her cheeks, Kid returns to my side.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Without even the moonlight to guide us, we proceed on through the thick forest, trying not to make a single sound.
<waitpad> As I stop for a moment to look around, a gust of icy wind howls across my face. In this dark, hostile forest, it seems that even time has stopped.
<waitpad><cleartext> It's the world of the night... Kid's world.
<Waitpad><fadeout f0, 60><delay 30><clearbg><ClearText><fadein 90, 00>

<Label 0x001DB0>
 Suddenly, Kid comes to an abrupt stop.
<waitpad>"Seems someone wants to say hello."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 50, 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000B07><FadeIn 50, 1E><Delay 0F> Out of a nearby thicket, two shimmering eyes catch my attention. Whatever it is, it's staring at me silently.
<Waitpad> After a few moments, a few more pairs of eyes appear. They seem to be surveying the area.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000B0D><Delay 08><PlaySound 32> A deep feline growl breaks the uncomfortable silence, and I realize we're being hunted by a pack of feral cats.
<Waitpad> A few of the figures slowly approach from behind the trees. I look behind me, only to see that they've already encircled us.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 32> A few more slowly creep in, now totaling about ten...
<Waitpad> Chills run down my spine. In a daze I clumsily unsheathe my knife, grasping it tightly as I bite my lip.
<Waitpad> Kid stands ready with an air of composure.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Careful, mate. These buggers are prolly rabid."
<Waitpad> The growling increases, now a constant rumble all around us.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 32><PlaySound 32>
<ClearText> Their yellow eyes shimmer like jack-o-lanterns while saliva drips from their snarling jaws.
<Waitpad> The middle one's stomach gurgles as its eyes widen, fixed directly on me.
<Waitpad>"Looks like we ain't gettin' outta this one without a fight!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 10, 00><Delay 08><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><27, 00><PlaySong 05> What do we do!?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x001FDA after 0x01A4ms><Choice 0x002353> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x00241F> *Magic! 
<Choice 0x0024DD> *Defend! 
<Choice 0x002584> *Run!
<Start Clock><ClearText>

<Label 0x001FDA>
<PlaySound 0D><ClearText>"Come on, let's go!"
<Waitpad> Kid suddenly dives into the pack, delivering an awesome kick to one of the beasts!
<PlaySound 14><Waitpad><Call 0x000D89> A painful howl fills the air, adding to the already heated commotion!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x002050>

<Label 0x002050>
<ClearText> The cat crouches, readying itself for a pounce. With its claws extended, it suddenly leaps towards me!
<Waitpad> I instantly dive out of the way!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 14><Call 0x000DA0> The razor-sharp claws miss my chest, yet still manage to tear a painful scratch into my side.
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0020EA><Set 0x1514 to 00>

<Label 0x0020EA>
<ClearText>"Dammit...!"
<Waitpad> Gritting my teeth, I regain my focus.
<delay 0a><Goto 0x002155 after 0x01A4ms><Choice 0x002353> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x00241F> *Magic! 
<Choice 0x0024DD> *Defend! 
<Choice 0x002584> *Run!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x002155>
<PlaySound 0D><ClearText> Hearing growling behind me, I turn around to realize there's another one right at my heels!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000DA0> My muscles clench as the animal tears into my shin!
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0021C0><Set 0x1514 to 00>

<Label 0x0021C0>
<ClearText>"Dammit...!"
<waitpad> I struggle to compose myself and stand firm. However, the growls continue to increase, petrifying me.
<Waitpad>"Quit stallin', Serge!"
<Waitpad> Kid's voice returns my focus.
<Waitpad><ClearText>What now!? 
<delay 0a><Goto 0x00229F after 0x01A4ms><Choice 0x002353> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x00241F> *Magic! 
<Choice 0x0024DD> *Defend! 
<Choice 0x002584> *Run!
<Start Clock><ClearText>

<Label 0x00229F>
<PlaySound 0D><ClearText><PlaySound 14> Out of the forest, a ferocious cat charges at me!
<Waitpad> I narrowly slip by!!
<Waitpad>"Phew..."
<Waitpad> However as I look down, I see another snarling at me, right at my feet! In a panic I scramble to ready my knife!
<Waitpad><ClearText>Quickly!! 
<Goto 0x002050 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x002353> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x00241F> *Magic! 
<Choice 0x0024DD> *Defend! 
<Choice 0x002584> *Run!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x002353>
<ClearText> I slash viciously at a nearby cat!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 13> Startled, it leaps back with incredible reflexes. I stay my ground, not getting any closer to the beast.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000D89> Hearing a howl, I know I've hit my mark.
<Waitpad> Licking its wound, the animal recovers after a moment of pain.
<Waitpad> I ready my knife, waiting for my next chance to attack.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Add 0A to 0x1515><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00241B><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x00241B>
<Goto 0x00268D>

<Label 0x00241F>
<Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00242F><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x00242F>
 As I try to remember a spell, a cat suddenly leaps directly at my head, its huge jaws wide open!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"No!!"
<Waitpad> I raise my arm to guard my face!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000DA0> Pain sears into my arm!
<Waitpad><Subtract 0F from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0024A3><Set 0x1514 to 00>

<Label 0x0024A3>
 Struggling and tangling with the creature, I manage to pry it off and keep it at a distance.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x00268D>

<Label 0x0024DD>
<Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0024ED><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x0024ED>
"Hey, get in here and fight, Serge!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> I turn around to see Kid driving her fist into a cat's head, narrowly escaping its jaws.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D89><Delay 08>"Ha!"
<Waitpad> The strike didn't connect perfectly, but still, the beast is dazed.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x00268D>

<Label 0x002584>
<Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x002594><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x002594>
 As we start to head towards the rear of the pack, one of the cats notices what we're doing and sneaks up on us from behind.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I turn around to see that there's one of them going straight for my legs!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 14><Call 0x000DA0>"Ahhh!!"
<Waitpad> My calf screams with pain!
<Waitpad><ClearText> I frantically thrust my knife into the animal!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D89> Screeching and flailing, it falls backwards, releasing
its grip on my leg.
<Waitpad><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x002688><Set 0x1514 to 00>

<Label 0x002688>
<ClearText><Goto 0x00268D>

<Label 0x00268D>
<ClearText>"Serge, behind ya!!"
<Waitpad> I turn around to see that I'm now face to face with a pair of those ravenous yellow eyes!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x002C0A after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x002704> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x00281F> *Magic! 
<Choice 0x002A61> *Defend!
<Start Clock><ClearText>

<Label 0x002704>
<ClearText> There's no time!!
<Waitpad> I duck as the cat lunges and snaps at me. I smell the bloody odor of the cat's breath as it passes overhead. Just as I think it's past me, I feel its back claws dig into my back!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00275B><Set 0x1514 to 01>

<Label 0x00275B>
<Add 08 to 0x1515><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00276B><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x00276B>
<ClearText> Scrambling out of the way, I manage to shove my knife upwards, planting it deep within the animal's belly!!
<PlaySound 13><Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><ClearText> The sound of death can heard as the cat falls to the ground before me, barely moving.
<Waitpad> Almost delirious, I lose balance and fall to my knees. Rolling over, I manage to shake off the confusion before any of the other cats can get any closer to me.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x002E51>

<Label 0x00281F>
<ClearText><Subtract 12 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x002830><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x002830>
 I barely miss a set of claws as I dodge a quick attack. As it lands and starts to turn around, I take advantage of the opportunity and chant an old spell of mine, hoping to get the incantation right...
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, nothing happens!
<Waitpad> The feline pounces again, but because of my fumbling magic, it takes me by surprise! Its massive body is suddenly on top of me, forcing me to the ground as it tears into my shoulder!
<PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><ClearText> Shuddering, I throw it off of me before it does any serious harm.
<Waitpad><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0028F1><Set 0x1514 to 00>

<Label 0x0028F1>
<Cleartext> Here comes their next attack!
<Waitpad> As I try to secure my footing, I accidentally trip over a rock and become dazed for a second or two. Regaining my composure, I see that a cat has already started to charge at me! It'll be on top of me in a matter of moments unless I do something fast!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 10><24, 1E, 04><Delay 02><24, 97, 04><24, 1F, 04><Delay 05><PlaySound 00>
<ClearText> Suddenly, I feel an intense heat from behind me, followed by a bright red flash that darts out, striking the cat in mid-air!
<Waitpad> It drops to the ground, burning from head to toe, making hideous howling noises as it tries to extinguish itself.
<Waitpad><24, 7F, 04><Delay 02><24, FF, 04><Delay 01><24, 9F, 08><Delay 05>
<ClearText> I take a moment to watch the smoldering feline run away in fear. I look up, only to see Magil towering over me. He shoots a glance at me, and then moves on with a cold gaze in his eyes.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x002E51>

<Label 0x002A61>
<ClearText> In desperation I raise my arms in a cross, guarding my face!!
<Waitpad> The beast catapults onto me, throwing me down and pinning me to the ground!
<PlaySound 14><Call 0x000DA0><waitpad> I scream from the bottom of my lungs as I feel the sharp jaws clamp down on my skin!
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x002AF9><Set 0x1514 to 00>

<Label 0x002AF9>
<ClearText> The beast straddles my body. Its teeth are now sunken deeply into my arm, my blood staining its fur as it growls. The pain is unbearable!!
<Waitpad> I do everything in my power to struggle and break free, but the jaws are like an iron trap, gnawing and ripping flesh deeper and deeper with every passing second!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000D89> Whoa! What was that?
<waitpad> All of a sudden the cat is hurled off me, thrown backwards by some incredible force. It cowers in a heap, away behind a tree, with a gaping hole in its belly. It roars helplessly.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I look up to see Kid standing behind me, her knife
dripping with blood.
<Waitpad> Squeezing the wound on my arm, I rise to my feet.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x002E51>

<Label 0x002C0A>
<Subtract 12 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x002C1A><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x002C1A>
<ClearText> The cat has suddenly pinned me against a tree, making me painfully aware of its huge fangs and horrible smell.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Its large mouth opens widely, ready to take its first bite. It snaps at me sinking its teeth into my shoulder!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaaahhhh!!!"
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x002D6E><Set 0x1514 to 00>

<Label 0x002D6E>
<ClearText> In desperation I push the cat off of me, and I collapse to the ground.
<Waitpad>"God dammit!! Now's not the time for foolin' around!!" I hear Kid's voice shout at me amidst the howls and screeches.
<Waitpad><Cleartext> I look over to see that the beast now lies on its back, blood pouring from its mouth, with a knife planted in its belly.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x002E51>

<Label 0x002E51>
<ClearText> I take a deep breath and try to tighten my grip on my knife, now slippery with sweat.
<Waitpad> Then, out of nowhere, Kid flashes across my field of vision, landing a direct hit onto a cat beside me!
<PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><Cleartext> The cat screeches in pain as Kid pins it to the ground, stomping and kicking it with all her rage! Without a moment's delay, she boots the animal up underneath its jaw.<call 0x000d89><delay 0a> It moves no more.
<Waitpad><ClearText> All of a sudden, the crazed atmosphere gives way to a war cry behind me!
<Call 0x000D83><PlaySound 10><24, 1F, 14><Delay 08><24, 7F, 04><Delay 02><24, FF, 04><Delay 01><24, 9F, 28><Delay 0A><PlaySound 00><waitpad> I whip around to see Magil's inferno spell setting a cat's head ablaze! It jumps up, screeching and howling in madness before running away wildly. In confusion, it runs directly into a tree and knocks itself out cold!
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 50, 14><Volume 70, 00><ClearBG><Delay 05><Call 0x000B07><FadeIn 50, 28><Delay 23><PlaySong 00>
<Cleartext> I look around, and see that only one of the pack hasn't been taken care of yet. As Kid and I start to close in on the beast, it bolts, fearing for its life.
<Waitpad><27, 01><PlaySong 06><Delay 01><Volume 40, FF>"Well that was some workout, eh mate?" says Kid, coming towards me as she tends to her arm.
<Waitpad> I take a deep breath as I look around, trying not to step on too many of the bodies.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x1514 doesn't equal 78 goto 0x00305F><Goto 0x0033FB>

<Label 0x00305F>
<Goto 0x003063>

<Label 0x003063>
<If 0x1514 is greater than 47 goto 0x00310A><If 0x1514 is greater than 1F goto 0x0030DE><Set 0x1514 to 28> I groan as the adrenaline wears off, and I start to feel the pain from all my injuries. I don't know how well I'll do if we get ourselves into another one of these things... I feel a little light-headed, standing here.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x003106>

<Label 0x0030DE>
 Am I going to be all right?
<Waitpad> I sure took some blows back there... I'll be the first to admit, I really haven't been in too many of these situations before. Danger wasn't my calling, I suppose.
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x003106>
<Goto 0x003134>

<Label 0x00310A>
 I'll admit I was a little worried back there at times, but nothing too serious happened.
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x003134>
<ClearText> I try talking to Magil, despite knowing how he'll react.
<Waitpad>"Are you all right?"
<Waitpad> With an expressionless face, he looks down at me blankly.
<Waitpad>"You need not worry about me."
<Waitpad> Wow, the affection is just overflowing from that guy.
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, I probably shouldn't start complaining now. We've still got a long way to go... We haven't even set foot inside Viper Manor yet.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid glances over at me, seeming eager as ever, ready to tackle what's next. "Ya gonna hang around all night or what, mate?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x003260> *"No way! let's go!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x003331> *"Not just yet, all right? I need a minute..."
<Start Clock><ClearText>

<Label 0x003260>
<ClearText><Add 12 to 0x1515><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x003271><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x003271>
"Hey, c'mere."
<Waitpad> Trying to ignore my aches and pains, I head over towards Kid.
<Waitpad>"Good job back there, mate."
<Waitpad> She comes closer. I can see the reflection of the moon in her eyes, as she gives me a warm, comforting smile.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"But c'mon, we can't just stand around all night! There's treasure waitin' to be found!"
<Waitpad> I'm still lost in her eyes as she starts to set off...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0033FB>

<Label 0x003331>
<ClearText>"Aw, quit whinin', Serge," she says, glaring down at me coldly.
<waitpad> ...
<Waitpad>"You're always saying that. `Mess up, and I'm leavin' ya behind.'<Delay 0A> Well, then what? You'd be alone, that's what. You never have any respect when talking to me..."
<Waitpad> I wish I could say these thoughts to her... but...
<Waitpad> In my heart, I let out a sigh.
<Waitpad><cleartext> I look up to see that from behind me, she's already started to head off into the forest.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0033FB>

<Label 0x0033FB>
 Magil continues behind her without a hitch.
<Waitpad> I hurry to catch up behind the two. In a place like this, getting separated would be a bad idea...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x003495>

<Label 0x003495>
<FadeOut 70, 1E><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000A27><FadeIn 70, 28><Delay 14> We continue to make our way through this natural labyrinth of wood and rock. Somewhere, quietly waiting within this huge forest, Viper Manor beckons us. Deep within lies the treasure we've come for...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Lord Lynx, as he's formally known, is an aristocrat who governs the Regionna outlands. From the way Kid talks, he's apparently an old adversary of hers.
<Waitpad> Tonight, our goal is Lord Lynx's most prized possession, a scarlet jewel known as the Frozen Flame.
<Waitpad> Besides being priceless, some say this beautiful stone harbors some sort of mystical power.
<Waitpad> They say many people have sought after the Flame, but none have been victorious in stealing it. Viper Manor has claimed many lives...
<Waitpad><ClearText> ...But we will succeed.
<Waitpad> We pride ourselves on making the impossible possible. Besides, the way Kid talks about Lynx sometimes, it sounds like she's got an awfully personal vendetta against him.
<waitpad> We can't lose... We've come too far to lose.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x00369A>

<Label 0x00369A>
<FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG>
<ClearText><Delay 1A> And so, after having spent countless hours crossing this dreary, lonesome forest, the silhouette of a towering mansion finally comes into view through the trees.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000A38><FadeIn 64, 3c><Delay 1E><Call 0x000A4F><Delay 7D>"We made it!" Kid shouts. "Yer days are numbered, Lynx!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> We quickly make our move, quietly dashing out from behind a thicket. Once at the mansion wall, we creep stealthily along the perimeter, searching for an entry point.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 78><ClearBG><Delay 1E>
<ClearText><textspeed 02> After a short while, we come upon a terrace near a garden which looks relatively inviting.<call 0x007474>
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A38><FadeIn 64, 32><Delay 0F> It doesn't look like there are any guards on patrol. Still, the mansion gives off a strange sort of morbid feeling. It's as quiet as death.
<Waitpad><ClearText>Magil gazes up at the towering fortress. "We can enter into the west wing from here. There's no need to look elsewhere."
<Waitpad>"Okay, let's go!" Kid says, jumping over the terrace handrail.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Halt!" shouts Magil from behind, staring at Kid. "Our goal is the Frozen Flame, not vengeance on Lord Lynx. Remember this, Kid."
<Waitpad>"Aye, no prob," she says, glancing over her shoulder.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ain't gonna be nothin' to it... like takin' candy from a baby. We'll be outta here before that slimy rat knows what hit him! Yeah, ya low-down, good-for-nothin' bastard, I'll make you pay!!"
<Waitpad> There she goes again...
<Waitpad><cleartext>"C'mon, I'm gettin' tired of waitin' around!" she yells, before bolting into the mansion.
<waitpad> Magil shakes his head in silence as I chase after Kid, already deep inside.
<Waitpad> The darkness engulfs me...
<Waitpad><Delay 0D><FadeOut F0, 50><ClearBG><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Call 0x000DB7><Delay 08><Goto 0x003C23>

<Label 0x0039C2>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000C9E><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 14><Return>

<Label 0x0039CF>
<PlaySound 27><Call 0x000CAA><Delay 14><FadeOut 70, 3C><Return>

<Label 0x0039DB>
<PlaySound 27><Call 0x000CB1><Delay 14><FadeOut 70, 3C><Return>

<Label 0x0039E7>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000CBA><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 14><Return>

<Label 0x0039F4>
<PlaySound 2B><Call 0x000CC6><Delay 14><FadeOut 70, 3C><Return>

<Label 0x003A00>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><PlaySound 2B><Call 0x000CC0><FadeIn 70, 1E><Call 0x000CCD><Delay 14><PlaySound 34><FadeOut 70, 3C><Return>

<Label 0x003A18>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000A38><FadeIn E6, 0A><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x003A84>"Get yer head screwed back on, Serge! We got a score to settle with Lynx! We don't have time to hang around outside!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x003C23>

<Label 0x003A7F>
<Goto 0x003C23>

<Label 0x003A84>
"What're ya talkin' about, turnin' back now!? If you wanna chicken out, you can just go back yerse..." Kid says, before suddenly stopping to look at something. She whips around, her eyes fixed steadily on the wilderness before us.
<Waitpad> Her gaze follows a tiny, glittering light, floating in the air momentarily before zipping off into the forest.
<Waitpad><Cleartext>"The Golden Beetle!!"
<waitpad> Suddenly, Kid jumps over the handrail, furiously running into the forest where the light had disappeared!
<Waitpad><cleartext> Could it really be the legendary Phantom Golden Beetle, said to show itself only once in a thousand years?
<Waitpad> The legend goes, he who captures it will come to enjoy more wealth than one could ever need in an entire lifetime...
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Wait up, Kid!!" I call out, frantically chasing after her into the woods.
<Waitpad> Beside me, I hear Magil let out an exasperated sigh as he follows after us.
<Waitpad><Fadeout F0, 40><delay 20><ClearBG><ClearText><Set 0x14A2 to 01><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x020E78>

<Label 0x003C23>
<ClearText><ClearBG><FadeIn 90, 00><Call 0x000DB7><If 0x1493 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003C46><If 0x14A4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003C40><Goto 0x003C42>

<Label 0x003C40>
<PlaySong 0F>

<Label 0x003C42>
<Goto 0x003C48>

<Label 0x003C46>
<PlaySong 0F>

<Label 0x003C48>
<ClearText> Passages extend to the left and right. Wherever we turn, darkness awaits...
<If 0x1493 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x003C8B><If 0x149B doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003C8B><If 0x14E0 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003C8B><Goto 0x0320CF>

<Label 0x003C8B>
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x003E60> *Let's try the right passage. 
<Choice 0x00A475> *How about the left passage.
<If 0x1493 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x003C8D><Choice 0x003A18> <delay 0a>*Let's get out of here...
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x003C8D>
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x003CF2>
<27, 00><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 12><Delay 08><call 0x007474>
<Cleartext> As though we're inside a gigantic snake, the passageway twists and turns, stretching deeper and deeper into the mansion.
<Waitpad> We now stand in almost complete and utter darkness. Just a trace of moonlight manages to illuminate the path. I stop for a moment, and realize it's now completely silent. I feel as though we're being watched silently by every single being in this dreadful house.
<Waitpad> Taking a deep breath, I move on...
<Waitpad><Delay 30><FadeOut 90, 3C><Delay 12><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 02>
<ClearText> And I set my foot down slyly. With the stealth of a cat yet so valiantly composed, Kid follows behind in stride. Drifting in and out of the shadows, the macabre figure of Magil looks out from behind.
<Waitpad> The Weaver of Fate has surely by now taken notice of us, cradling us carefully in her arms...
<Waitpad><Delay 37><FadeOut 90, 3C><Delay 12><ClearText><Delay 08><FadeIn 90, 00><call 0x007474><27, 01><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F><Set 0x14A4 to 01><If 0x1518 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003E5C><Goto 0x003E60>

<Label 0x003E5C>
<Goto 0x00A475>

<Label 0x003E60>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><ClearBG><If 0x1493 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003E79><If 0x14A4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003E79><Goto 0x003CF2>

<Label 0x003E79>
<If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x003E89><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x003E91>

<Label 0x003E89>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x003E91>
<27, 01><PlaySong 0F><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000C3F><FadeIn 70, 0A> We make our way down the dimly lit passageway. After a few moments, we come to an old, dusty door on the right. <Call 0x0039C2><delay 05><If 0x14A5 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003F12>Kid quietly presses her ear against the door.
<Waitpad>"Quiet as a church mouse. No one's there, mate."
<Goto 0x003F39>

<Label 0x003F12>
This is the clock tower storeroom, if I remember
correctly...


<Label 0x003F39>
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x003FF2> *Open the door. 
<Choice 0x00404C> *Keep going down the hallway. 
<Choice 0x005916> *Head back towards the terrace.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x003F64>
<ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 1F><If 0x1519 is greater than 07 goto 0x003FF1><27, 00><If 0x149D doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003FC5><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x003F8D><Goto 0x014D5E><Goto 0x003FC1>

<Label 0x003F8D>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x003F9D><Goto 0x0167C1><Goto 0x003FC1>

<Label 0x003F9D>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x003FAD><Goto 0x01BEAE><Goto 0x003FC1>

<Label 0x003FAD>
<If 0x1519 is greater than 05 goto 0x003FBD><Goto 0x017A10><Goto 0x003FC1>

<Label 0x003FBD>
<Goto 0x018F57>

<Label 0x003FC1>
<Goto 0x003FF1>

<Label 0x003FC5>
<If 0x1519 is greater than 02 goto 0x003FD5><Goto 0x01BEAE><Goto 0x003FF1>

<Label 0x003FD5>
<If 0x1519 is greater than 04 goto 0x003FE5><Goto 0x0167C1><Goto 0x003FF1>

<Label 0x003FE5>
<If 0x1519 is greater than 06 goto 0x003FF1><Goto 0x017A10>

<Label 0x003FF1>
<Return>

<Label 0x003FF2>
<ClearText><Call 0x0039CF><FadeOut F0, 14><ClearText><ClearBG><Goto 0x0040D9>

<Label 0x00404C>
<ClearText><If 0x14A5 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0040AB>

<Label 0x0040AB>
<ClearText><Goto 0x005EB5>

<Label 0x0040D9>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><ClearBG><FadeIn 90, 00><If 0x14C1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00412E><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 0A><Call 0x000AC3><FadeIn 6C, 3C><Volume 20, FF><Delay 0F>
<ClearText>"Aw, come on... there's nothin' here. Let's try someplace else."
<Waitpad> We leave the room.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x00412E>
<If 0x14A5 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00413A><Goto 0x0055F2>

<Label 0x00413A>
<delay 10><if 0x14EC doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02FDCF>"What's with all this junk? Must be a storeroom or somethin'..."
<waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 0A><Call 0x000AC3><FadeIn 6C, 3C><Volume 2A, FF>
<Cleartext> It seems like this is the inner mechanics of a clock tower. However, the gears look old and rusted, and cogs are spinning randomly without connecting up with their proper teeth. I doubt the clock's still in use today; the room seems to be currently used as a storage area.
<Waitpad> A large object catches my attention, off in a far corner of the room. It's too dark over there to see what it is, though.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x149F doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0042B2><Goto 0x02EE53>

<Label 0x0042B2>
"Do not touch anything out of the ordinary," Magil says abruptly, sending a sudden shock down my spine.
<Waitpad> However, just as he says this, I see Kid emerge from the shadows, dragging the large object out into the middle of the room.
<Waitpad> It's a large antique sword of some kind.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14C0 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00431D><Goto 0x0059AB>

<Label 0x00431D>
"We've got no use for that old thing, Kid. All it'll do is slow us down. Besides, we probably wouldn't even get much money for it."
<Waitpad>"Hmph. I reckon it's worth a lot to the right buyer, like an antique collector or somebody..."
<Waitpad> Sulking, Kid quietly lays the sword down.
<Waitpad><Cleartext><delay 20>"What do you want?"
<Waitpad><cleartext> I look around, startled. That was definitely not any of our voices.
<Waitpad> Kid and Magil immediately take position, focusing their attention towards the source of the voice.
<Waitpad>"Who's there!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 10><FadeOut 28, 00><Call 0x000AC9><FadeIn 28, 50><Delay 14>
<cleartext> A figure suddenly appears out of the darkness. It seems to be a short old woman with a large hood over her head. Although fully covered, it's obvious she's quite old.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Set 0x14A5 to 01>
<Cleartext>"Aw, It's just some old hag," Kid says. Magil's sharp gaze on the woman remains unchanged, however.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Heh, heh... what an energetic young lady. You haven't come here this late in the evening to drop in on some friends, I'd imagine..."
<Waitpad> I glance at Kid.
<Waitpad>"Perhaps you have some score to settle with Master Lynx...?"
<waitpad> My heart jumps...
<waitpad><Cleartext> This is definitely not good. Will she warn the rest of them about us?
<delay 0a><choice 0x004644> *Tell the truth. 
<Choice 0x0051DB> *Play dumb. 
<Choice 0x005505> *Pretend to have not heard her.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x004644>
<ClearText><If 0x14AC doesn't equal 01 goto 0x004651><Goto 0x042940>

<Label 0x004651>
 Kid's eyes narrow. "If we did have a score to settle with that bastard, what's it to you?"
<Waitpad><Cleartext>"Heh... just as I expected."
<Waitpad> The old woman cackles in amusement.
<Waitpad>"Children... they're always so interesting like that. So imaginative, yet so predictable."
<Waitpad> ...???
<Waitpad>"What're you talkin' about, old lady?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 04><Delay 08>
<Cleartext>"Oh, it's already been four or five years, I would gather. According to what I was told, one night a young thief came to the manor, looking for trouble... The thief was a little girl, about ten years old."
<Waitpad> Surprised, I glance at Kid. There's a trace of an ice-like radiance in her eyes. Staring at her makes me feel like it's suddenly dropped below freezing in here.
<Waitpad> Unfazed, the old woman continues her story...
<Waitpad><Cleartext>"The girl was an orphan. She set off to face Master Lynx all alone, hoping to avenge the girl who had cared for her like a big sister.
<Waitpad> But, after all, she was all alone. Outnumbered and overpowered, she was eventually defeated and captured by Master Lynx's henchmen...
<Waitpad><cleartext> As an ally, Master Lynx can be quite an asset. However, as an enemy, he can be one of the most fearsome men alive. If not for a friend who sneaked in and secretly rescued her, she surely would have perished.
<Waitpad><ClearText> From what I've heard, this mysterious figure who could allegedly slip in and out of the shadows was the subject of many whispers throughout the manor, long after this incident had come to pass."
<Waitpad> Not moving a muscle, I try to look for Magil. He's nowhere to be seen. I can only guess he's sporting one of those trademark expressionless faces, somewhere off in the darkness.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The inhabitants of Viper Manor don't condemn the unfortunate, because no one can win all the time. However, from time to time, the Goddess of Fate has been known to cast down those who have too much good luck, throwing the cogs of time out of order. It's not wise to try and stand against fate, continuing to repeat one's mistakes time and time again."
<Waitpad><cleartext> The old woman continues, staring straight at Kid, smiling sweetly. "If you want to steal the jewel, and if you really want to beat him, you too must give up your most valued possession, Kid. As long as you cling to it, the hands of your clock will never budge. They'll stay frozen, trapped in the distant past..."
<Waitpad>"...Who the bloody hell is this old hag...!?"
<Waitpad><Cleartext>"Me? Oh, just an old lady... pay me no mind. Thank you for listening to this old maid for such a long time. I certainly hope I haven't delayed you at all. But before you leave, which one of you..."
<Waitpad><volume a0, 00> With that, the old woman looks in my direction.
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 0A><Volume a0, FF>"Ah, yes. You look like you've got a bit of a scrape there. Won't you let me have a look at it?"
<Waitpad> What should I do? I don't know whether to be petrified or comforted by all this...
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x004C3E> *"Yes, please do, ma'am."
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x004EF1> *"No thanks, it's okay."
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x00509C> *"What should I do, Kid?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x004C3E>
<Cleartext> The old woman clasps her hands together. Bowing her head, she mumbles a few words in a low tone.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 24><24, 4E, 14> Suddenly, a gentle pale blue light surrounds my body, filling me with a strange warmth!
<Waitpad>"Wow... look at that!"
<Waitpad> My wounds are being healed before my eyes! It feels as though there's some sort of soft music being played all around me, putting me into a strange serenity.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 30, 1E><24, CE, 1E><Delay 05><04, FF, 00><04, FF, 01><04, FF, 02><04, FF, 03><ClearText><If 0x1514 is greater than 78 goto 0x004D64><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x004D64>
 When I come around, the woman is gone.
<Waitpad>"Hello? Lady?" says Kid, relentlessly looking around. However, there's no trace of her. All signs of her presence are gone.
<Waitpad>"Wonder what was up with that old hag..."
<Waitpad><If 0x14AC doesn't equal 00 goto 0x004E25> Looking around, I can't help but wonder what she was talking about, with all that talk about a prized possession and everything...
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x004E25>
<ClearText>"Let's get our arses outta here! This place is givin' me the creeps!" says Kid all of a sudden, already heading for the door.
<Waitpad><Cleartext>"Hey, wait up."
<Waitpad> As I catch up with Kid, she gives me a friendly poke in the ribs. "Hmph, ain't no fair you were the only one who got healed."
<waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x004EF1>
<ClearText> The old woman narrows her wrinkly eyes, barely visible from under the hood.
<waitpad>"Is that so? Well, so be it. I won't keep you any longer. However, it's not a wise idea to pass up generosity, especially in such a place like this. And, as I'm sure you know by now, the only one who can help Kid and the shadow walker is you, Serge."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 30, 1E><Delay 05><04, FF, 00><04, FF, 01><04, FF, 02><04, FF, 03>
<Cleartext> With that, the woman vanishes.
<Waitpad>"What the...? What was up with her?" Kid asks, puzzled.
<Waitpad>"We must not linger. Let us search elsewhere."
<Waitpad> Magil heads toward the door as though nothing has happened.
<Waitpad>"Yeah, let's get our arses outta here."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x00509C>
<ClearText><Subtract 12 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0050C4><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x0050C4>
"Jeez! Yer a man, aren't ya? Decide for yerself!"
<Waitpad> However, as I look back towards the old woman, she's nowhere to be found.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 30, 1E><Delay 05><04, FF, 00><04, FF, 01><04, FF, 02><04, FF, 03>
<ClearText>"What was up with old granny there? She sure left in a hurry," says Kid, biting her lip.
<Waitpad>"We must not linger. Let us search elsewhere." Magil calmly says, heading to the door.
<Waitpad>"Yeah, let's get our arses outta here."
<waitpad><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x0051DB>
<ClearText>"Lynx? Who's this Lynx bloke?"
<Waitpad> Kid plays dumb with all her might. If I didn't know her better, I'd say she's quite a convincing actor. After all, she really isn't the kind of person who worries much about lying in the first place...
<Waitpad>"From what I've heard," Kid says, "that bast... er... bloke sounds like quite a character. I don't know anyone stupid enough to go up against someone like that. Ain't that right? Heh..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"There's no need to try and deceive me, young lady."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x004644> *Confess and admit the truth. 
<Choice 0x005316> *Be stubborn and still play dumb.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x005316>
"Are you calling me a liar!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Well... all right then. I apologize if I was rude, but it's just Viper Manor has seen more than a few unwelcome guests over the years. Surely you can understand my apprehension. I hope the rest of your stay is an enjoyable one... heh, heh..."
<Waitpad> Hissing these words, the old woman's figure melts into thin air, vanishing without a trace.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 30, 1E><Delay 05><04, FF, 00><04, FF, 01><04, FF, 02><04, FF, 03><cleartext><delay 10>"M... ma'am?"
<Waitpad> Kid and I glance at each other.
<Waitpad>"It's a waste of time to stay here any longer. Let us search somewhere else," Says Magil, as though nothing happened.
<waitpad>"Yeah, I've had enough of this place..."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x005505>
<ClearText>"Huh? What was that? Sorry, I'm hard of hearing. Sure is a nice moon out tonight, huh..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Please don't mistake me for someone who is fooled easily. Now, I won't be asking you again. Do you plan to go up against the Master?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x004644> *Be honest. 
<Choice 0x005316> *Continue pissing her off.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0055F2>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 0A><Call 0x000AC3><FadeIn 6C, 14><Volume 20, FF><Delay 14> The room is quiet except for the sounds of the gears. There's no sign of the hooded lady anywhere.
<Waitpad><If 0x14C0 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x005641><If 0x14C1 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x005641><Goto 0x0059AB>

<Label 0x005641>
<cleartext>"Hello?"
<Waitpad><delay 20>
<cleartext>"...Ma'am?"
<Waitpad><delay 20>
<ClearText>"Well if yer not here, say so, ya old hag!!"
<Waitpad><delay 20> The silence is deafening...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"This is a waste of time. We should investigate elsewhere," says Magil, turning on his heel.
<Waitpad> We follow him out.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><cleartext><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x005750>
<ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x005762><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00576A>

<Label 0x005762>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00576A>
<27, 01><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000C3F><FadeIn 70, 0A> From here, the passageway stretches to the right and left. The right path continues on into the mansion, while heading to the left will take us to the terrace.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x005EB5> *Proceed to the right. 
<Choice 0x005916> *Head towards the terrace.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0057DA>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><Delay 08><ClearBG><ClearText><Set 0x14B2 to 01><PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C87><FadeIn 70, 14> With Kid leading the way, we descend the stairs...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Delay 05><Call 0x000A52><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 0F> At the bottom of the staircase, a quite sturdy looking door stands on the right.<Call 0x0039E7> The hallway also continues on ahead, which will take us back towards the terrace.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x005FE4> *Open the door. 
<Choice 0x00588B> *Proceed ahead to the terrace. 
<Choice 0x008F30> *Turn around.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00588B>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Set 0x14B2 to 00><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0058A4><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x0058AC>

<Label 0x0058A4>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x0058AC>
<27, 01><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><delay 10><Call 0x000A52><FadeIn 70, 0A><delay 08> After a little while we come to a door on the left. <Call 0x0039C2>The terrace lies ahead.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x003FF2> *Open the door. 
<Choice 0x005916> *Proceed on towards the terrace. 
<Choice 0x005EB5> *Go back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x005916>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00592B><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x005933>

<Label 0x00592B>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x005933>
<27, 01><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x005959><If 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x005959><If 0x14E2 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x005955><Goto 0x033E2E><Goto 0x005959>

<Label 0x005955>
<Goto 0x033922>

<Label 0x005959>
<PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000A52><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 08> After a short while, the terrace comes into view on the left. The cool evening air trickles in through the doorway, giving me a subtle reassurance...
<delay 0a><choice 0x00A475> *Proceed on through the hallway. 
<Choice 0x00DD1C> *Go out onto the terrace. 
<Choice 0x003E60> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0059AB>
<ClearText> We rush over towards the sword. Looking down at it, Magil starts to speak.
<Waitpad>"This may be what we're looking for. By the looks of it, this sword could be the fabled holy Einlanzer, or perhaps the demonic Masamune..."
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Wow Magil, you know about the Masamune?"
<Waitpad>"<textspeed 04>.............."
<call 0x007474><Waitpad>"Did ya ever know its owner?"
<Waitpad>"<textspeed 04>.........<call 0x007474>Yes."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Was he yer mate?"
<Waitpad>"<textspeed 04>.........."
<call 0x007474><Waitpad>"So he was one of yer enemies then?"
<Waitpad>"<textspeed 04>..........<call 0x007474><Delay 10>No."
<Waitpad>"Hmm... well, hey Serge, take this thing!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Huh...?"
<Waitpad>"Come on, ya don't expect a fair maiden like me to carry this bulky thing all over the place, do ya? Well?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x005C82> *"Fair maiden!?"
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x005BC7> *Swallow my pride and pick it up.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x005BC7>
<ClearText> I grit my teeth and remind myself it would get me
absolutely nowhere to argue with her...
<Waitpad> So, I go to Kid's side, and pick up the sword, just as I was told to.
<Waitpad>"Oof!"
<Waitpad> Jeez, it's heavy...!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Okay, let's get our arses to that bloody torture chamber! I can almost smell the Frozen Flame from here!"
<Waitpad> I follow Kid out of the room, dragging the heavy sword.
<Waitpad><Set 0x14C1 to 01><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x005C82>
<ClearText><Call 0x000DA0> Without a moment's notice, Kid punches me straight in the stomach!
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x005CD3><Set 0x1514 to 02>

<Label 0x005CD3>
<Subtract 14 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x005CE3><Set 0x1515 to 02>

<Label 0x005CE3>
 I tumble to the ground in a daze.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Wha, What are you doing!?"
<Waitpad>"Hmph!"
<Waitpad> Kid snorts, turning the other way. I look over to Magil for sympathy, but he offers none, as usual.
<Waitpad>"Hurry up and take it, Serge. It'll be morning soon, ya dummy."
<Waitpad><ClearText> I struggle to my feet, reluctantly picking up the sword. Jeez, this thing is heavy!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Okay, let's get our arses to that bloody torture chamber! I can almost smell the Frozen Flame from here!"
<Waitpad> I struggle to drag the heavy sword out of the room, still dizzy from the blow.
<Waitpad><Set 0x14C1 to 01><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x005EB5>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><ClearBG><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x005ECA><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x005ED2>

<Label 0x005ECA>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x005ED2>
<27, 01><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000C3F><FadeIn 70, 0A> Proceeding ahead on the path, we come to a staircase going up, and...<delay 08><Call 0x0039E7> a firm-looking set of doors on the left.
<If 0x14B6 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x005F5D><delay 0a><Choice 0x008F85> *Open the door. 
<Choice 0x008F30> *Proceed ahead to the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00588B> *Head back through the passageway.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x005F5D>
<waitpad>"There better be treasure here. The smell of gold's thick in the air, mate."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x005FE4> *Go inside. 
<Choice 0x008F30> *Proceed ahead to the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00588B> *Head back towards the terrace.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x005FE4>
<ClearText><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x005FF1><Goto 0x032694>

<Label 0x005FF1>
<If 0x14B1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00600D><If 0x14B6 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x006009><Goto 0x0061F3><Goto 0x00600D>

<Label 0x006009>
<Goto 0x008F85>

<Label 0x00600D>
<playsound 38><delay 05>"Hmph, just like I thought... locked," Kid says after jiggling the handle. Frustrated, she kicks the door.
<PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D7D><Waitpad>"This might slow us down, but sure as bloody 'ell won't keep us out!"
<Waitpad><Set 0x14A6 to 01>"Well, unless we find the key, there's nothing we can do, Kid."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Let's get to it then. I bet Lynx's got it stashed up in his room somewhere, the bastard..."
<Waitpad> Unable to do anything, we leave to look elsewhere.
<delay 0a><If 0x14B2 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x006156><Set 0x14B2 to 00><Choice 0x00588B> *Proceed towards the terrace. 
<Choice 0x008F30> *Return to the stairs.
<Start Clock><Goto 0x006175>

<Label 0x006156>
<Choice 0x008F30> *Proceed ahead to the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00588B> *Head back towards the terrace.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x006175>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F><27, 01><Call 0x000C3F><FadeIn 90, 0A> From the treasure vault, paths extend to the left and right. The right path proceeds back towards the terrace, while an ascending staircase lies to the left.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x00588B> *Head towards the terrace. 
<Choice 0x008F30> *Proceed to the stairs.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0061F3>
<ClearText><If 0x149F doesn't equal 01 goto 0x006200><Goto 0x02E516>

<Label 0x006200>
"It better open now," says Kid, putting the key we found into the lock.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 28><Delay 08> As the lock clicks, we're suddenly showered in all colors of light!
<PlaySound 10><24, 4F, 0A><24, CF, 0A><Delay 05><24, 3F, 0A><24, BF, 0A><Delay 03><24, 1F, 0A><24, 9F, 28><PlaySound 00><Delay 20>"Musta been an enchanted lock... Whatever's on the other side of this door's gotta be good!"
<Waitpad> The heavy doors open, slowly...
<Call 0x0039F4><Waitpad><cleartext><delay 0a> Inside the room, I gasp at the awesome spectacle laid out before our eyes.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000A58><FadeIn 69, 28><Delay 2D> Despite the sparse light, a brimming mountain of silver, gold, and other precious-looking artifacts shimmer and twinkle throughout this huge treasure vault. Kid is almost drooling at the sight. But to be fair, a sight like this would captivate most people...
<Waitpad> Enormous heaps of riches are piled before our eyes, in amounts most people will probably never see in their entire lives. It looks to be authentic...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Remember, our goal is the Flame. Do not waste time with frivolities," says Magil flatly.
<Waitpad>"Jeez, I told ya, I know..."
<waitpad> Regardless of Magil's warning, Kid can't help but be taken aback. She gawks at the room's contents in awe, until...
<Waitpad><cleartext><Delay 10>"Hey, what's that? In the back, on that pedestal..."
<waitpad> There, a palm-sized jewel radiates a pale crimson light, resting patiently behind the other treasure. It looks as though it's a roaring flame that's somehow been frozen in time...
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 1E><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 07><Call 0x000B1D><FadeIn 70, a0><Delay 43> The Frozen Flame!!
<waitpad> As Magil glides over towards the pedestal, I nervously call out...
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x006580> *"Come on, take it, before someone realizes we're here!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x006A10> *"Be careful... we can't afford falling into a trap."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x006580>
<ClearText>"Come on! This is what we came for," Kid says, joining in with me. "It's ours! Take it!!"
<Waitpad> Magil reaches his hand out towards the Flame, slowly...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 14><Delay 05><ClearText><ClearBG><PlaySong 00><Call 0x000A58><04, FF, 00><25, 00><FadeIn 6b, 04><24, 77, 08><Delay 03><24, F7, 0A><playsound 2f> Suddenly, an alarm bell rings out! The room lights up, and heavy metal bars fall in front of the door!<PlaySound 22><PlaySound 22><Call 0x000D83><delay 0a> Our only exit is blocked!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 69, 14><PlaySong 05> Out of the corners of the room, four mechanical birds suddenly come to life!
<Waitpad>"INTRUDER ALERT!! INTRUDER ALERT!!"
<waitpad> Their loud metallic screeching only adds to my uneasiness!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Dammit!! This is nothing but another trap...
<Waitpad> Kid immediately turns to me.
<waitpad>"Bollocks, Serge! This is all 'cuz you were sayin' we had to hurry!"
<delay 0a><choice 0x0068D0> *"What!? You were the one who was egging him on!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x006740> *"We all could have been more careful..."

<Start Clock>

<Label 0x006740>
<ClearText>"Damn straight! I can't believe how many times you've bungled things up for us!"
<Waitpad>"Will you two please quiet down? Lynx's minions will be here any minute..."
<Waitpad> But before Magil can even finish his sentence, we start to hear deep, snarling voices, somewhere outside the room...
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Which way is it coming from?" a heavy voice asks.
<waitpad>"Sounds like the treasure vault's alarm to me."
<Waitpad> The voices continue to get louder and louder as we stand motionless inside the room. We silently gawk at each other, hoping any one of us has some sort of plan.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 12 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0068CC><Set 0x1515 to 01>

<Label 0x0068CC>
<Goto 0x006EA8>

<Label 0x0068D0>
<ClearText>"What was that? What did you say to me, Serge!?" Kid says, raising her voice.
<Waitpad>"Uh.. Nothing, really!" I say, lowering my eyes.
<Waitpad>"Will you two please quiet down? We need think about how to get out of here. Someone is bound to be on their way," says Magil, annoyed.
<Waitpad><cleartext> But before he can even finish his sentence, we start to hear deep, snarling voices, somewhere outside the room...
<Waitpad>"Which way is it coming from?" a heavy voice asks.
<waitpad>"Sounds like the treasure vault's alarm to me."
<Waitpad> The voices continue to get louder and louder as we stand motionless inside the room. We silently gawk at each other, hoping any one of us has some sort of plan.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x006EA8>

<Label 0x006A10>
<ClearText>"Hmph, fine," Kid frustratedly says, glancing back at the door. "Just remember we're short on time!"
<Subtract 0F from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x006A89><Set 0x1515 to 01>

<Label 0x006A89>
<Waitpad><ClearText> After investigating the pedestal for a little while... "Serge was correct. It does seem to be trapped."
<Waitpad> Magil steps back, mumbling something in a low voice while placing his hand near the base of the pedestal.
<waitpad> Slowly, an inscription begins to emerge on its surface, shining brightly for a moment.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It should be disarmed now," he says, before cautiously lifting the scarlet jewel from the pedestal.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Delay 0D><indent 04x, 04y> Serge's party got the Frozen Flame!!
<PlaySound 1B><waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><Delay 03><Call 0x000A58><04, FF, 00><25, 00><FadeIn 69, 1E><Delay 0F> Whew... we did it! With a sigh of relief, I turn towards Magil. He's looking intently at the Flame.
<Waitpad>"Way to go, Magil! All right, let's..."
<PlaySong 00><PlaySound 1D> Suddenly, the gem shatters into a thousand pieces in Magil's hand!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Set 0x14BE to 01>"It's a fake. Indeed, that fiend Lynx would never have left the real Flame in a place like this."
<Waitpad>"Damn..."
<Waitpad><cleartext><Delay 0A><24, 78, 02><Delay 02><24, F8, 04><FadeIn 6b, 04><playsound 2f> Suddenly, an alarm bell rings out! The room lights up, and heavy metal bars fall in front of the door!
<PlaySound 22><PlaySound 22><Call 0x000D83><waitpad> Our only exit is blocked!
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 69, 14><Delay 05> I look around, only to see Kid holding a fancy crown, suddenly realizing what she's done...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Delay 0A><indent 04x, 04y>Serge's party got the Golden Crown!!
<PlaySound 1B><Waitpad><ClearText><delay 0a>"That, that dimwitted dingo!!" I say to myself.
<Waitpad><PlaySong 05> Suddenly, out of the corners of the room, four mechanical birds suddenly come to life!
<waitpad>"INTRUDER ALERT!! INTRUDER ALERT!!"
<waitpad> Their loud metallic screeching only adds to my uneasiness!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"It doesn't look like it will open," says Magil, checking the iron bars in front of the door.
<Waitpad> But, before Magil can even finish his sentence, we start to hear deep, snarling voices, somewhere outside the room...
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Which way is it coming from?" a heavy voice asks.
<waitpad>"Sounds like the treasure vault's alarm to me."
<Waitpad> The voices continue to get louder and louder as we stand motionless inside the room. We silently gawk at each other, hoping any one of us will have some sort of plan.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x006EA8>

<Label 0x006EA8>
 Kid hides herself under a mountain of gold coins.
<waitpad>"Quick, hide, mate!"
<Waitpad> I frantically look around the room.
<Waitpad> There! Over in the far corner, there's an empty treasure chest behind a post. I dash over towards it, climb in, and close the lid.
<Waitpad><ClearText><playsound 00><Call 0x000DB7><Delay 08><fadein 6b, 30><playsound 2b><PlaySong 11><Delay 0F>"Looks like there's no one here, boss."
<Waitpad>"That's strange. No one's ever been able to escape this old thing..."
<Waitpad> Softly opening the lid of the chest, I take a peek outside through the small crack and see five goblins, bedecked in armor, having unlocked the iron bars and standing just a few feet from me.
<Waitpad><ClearText> They look around the room restlessly, peeking into the shadows. Eventually, one of them raises his head to speak.
<Waitpad>"Maybe a rat set it off. The cook was complaining about rats just the other day."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Rats? Are you trying to tell me a rat set off the trap?" a fat goblin questions the other with a doubtful face.
<Waitpad> And, with that... "Squeak... squeak, squeak," comes from the corner, over by where Kid's hiding...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Taken aback, the goblins stop moving, and look at each other. After a little while, the chief slowly strokes his chin and says, "No, actually, wasn't it stray cats that the cook was complaining about?"
<Waitpad>"...<delay 0a>Meow, meow," comes the voice a second time.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Again, the goblins glance at each other. "That's strange, what I heard was that it was a vicious Heckran that raided the pantry, I think."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Not a peep this time... I can only picture Kid racking her brain, trying to think of what a Heckran sounds like...
<Waitpad>"Just as I thought -- a thief," says one of the guards. But, just as they start to approach...
<waitpad>"He... Hekeikekekekeke... heke, hekeike, ranranran!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Oh, well then, it certainly is a Heckran! Without a doubt!" one of them says, exchanging a smile with the others.
<Waitpad>"Well, that's pretty frightening then. Come on, let's get out of here."
<Waitpad> The pack begins to file out of the treasure vault.
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 20> But then, suddenly, the goblins all spring on the pile of gold!
<PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D83><playsong 00><Waitpad>"Well, what do we have here?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey! Get yer hands off me, ya slimy freaks!" Kid says, struggling to break free.
<Waitpad>"Slimy? A thief like yourself isn't in much of a position to criticize!" one of them hollers at her.
<Waitpad> Kicking herself free of their grasp, Kid inches back into the corner of the room. The goblins start to corner her off, laughing to themselves...
<Waitpad><ClearText> I quietly sneak out of my hiding place and unsheathe my knife. Taking on an entire troupe of armed goblins is a lost cause, even for Kid.
<Waitpad> What should I do? Frankly, I'm in a quandary...
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x0076C9> *I've got to save her... 
<Choice 0x007528> *I've got to save myself!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x007528>
<ClearText><Set 0x14BD to 01><Subtract 1E from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00753D><Set 0x1515 to 01>

<Label 0x00753D>
 Hmmm... I think I'll leave this to Kid and Magil, while checking on the situation outside...
<Waitpad> I sneak over to the door, left open by the goblins...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Serge!!"
<Waitpad> Gulp!
<Waitpad> I timidly turn around, only to see that all the goblins are now staring at me intently.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I guess it didn't exactly occur to Kid to sacrifice herself in order to let her friends escape. Well, it's too late for any of that now! I reach for my knife, gritting my teeth!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x00780F>

<Label 0x0076C9>
<ClearText> Yeah, I can't abandon my friends, especially at a time like this.
<Waitpad> Gripping my knife tightly, I charge into the center of the room, shouting, "Hey, you stupid oafs!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> They all turn around, staring at me blankly for a moment, before their expressions turn to rage.
<Waitpad>"You just came out here to die. Didn't you, little man."
<Waitpad> Gulp...
<Waitpad><Add 12 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00780B><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x00780B>
<Goto 0x00780F>

<Label 0x00780F>
<ClearText>"You really want us to trample over your head that badly? Well, I suppose we can accommodate you," the goblin boss says, giving a deep laugh.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Without a moment's hesitation, Kid shouts back. "Don't think you can easily pick a fight with the likes of the great Kid and get away with it!!"
<Waitpad>"Wait a minute, so you're the elusive Kid?" the boss asks, as its eyes softly narrow. "How sweet this is. Perhaps if I deliver your head to Lord Lynx, he'll give me a nice reward..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7> The boss goblin takes its morning star from its side. The huge iron ball jangles down to the floor.
<Waitpad>"Please don't confuse us with just any ordinary goblins. Striking fear into the hearts of men everywhere, we are Lynx's Elite Security Force, the fearsome Magical Gobbler Team!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 05>"If ya got time to spout off all that nonsense, then ya sure got enough time to get yer arses kicked!" Kid shouts, exploding with a fierce roundhouse kick!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> The goblin teeters and staggers, dizzied by the brunt of her attack!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Let's get 'em, boys! Start with that little twerp over there!"
<Waitpad> Metal balls begin to swing around, swooshing through the air with deadly speed!
<Waitpad>"Jet Gobbler Attack! Now!"
<waitpad> Sliding across the floor like the wind, the goblins simultaneously rush us!
<Waitpad><cleartext><27, 00><FadeOut 70, 44><delay 18><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000B5C><FadeIn F0, 44><27, 00><Set 0x151A to 04><Goto 0x007B4E>

<Label 0x007B4E>
<ClearText> Looking up, all I see is a goblin coming at me head on, ready to bash its weapon into my skull!! 
<Goto 0x007B9E after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x007CBC> *Dodge! 
<Choice 0x007EDB> *Parry!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x007B9E>
<ClearText><PlaySound 0D> It's no use -- my timing's off!
<Waitpad> A side shot from the goblin's morning star slices through the air!
<PlaySound 13><Waitpad> I try to dodge, but...
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000DA0> Intense pain shoots into my side! I hit the floor with a tremendous thud!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x007C5A> Oh no!
<Waitpad> As the blood begins to trickle down my head, everything I see before me becomes soaked in a deep, dark redness...
<Delay 0A><FadeOut 60, 32><ClearBG> Kid's voice quickly becomes farther and farther away, as I begin my descent into a never-ending darkness...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x007C5A>
"Serge! Get up!!"
<Waitpad> Hearing Kid's words, I somehow totter to my feet, cradling my wounded stomach.
<Waitpad> I can't let myself falter now... I've got to stay focused!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0081EE>

<Label 0x007CBC>
<ClearText><Call 0x0081D3><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x007D30> I feel the gust of wind from the metal ball as it closely grazes by me!
<PlaySound 13><Waitpad> Somehow, I manage to dodge safely! However, I fall off balance and hit the ground with a thud.
<Goto 0x007DB7>

<Label 0x007D30>
 The metal ball rams into my shoulder, throwing me off balance!
<Call 0x000DA0><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><Call 0x007DC9><Waitpad> Writhing in pain, I'm barely able to lift my head in preparation for the next attack.
<Waitpad>"Gahahahah, good boy! Come on, let's have some more fun!"

<Label 0x007DB7>
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x007FCD><Subtract 01 from 0x151A><Call 0x007E07><Goto 0x0081EE>

<Label 0x007DC9>
<If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x007E06> No...!!!
<Waitpad><24, 1F, 14> As the blood begins to trickle down my head, everything I see before me becomes soaked in a deep, dark redness...
<Delay 0A><FadeOut 70, 3C><24, 9F, 28><Delay 0F><ClearBG><ClearText> Kid's voice quickly becomes farther and farther away, as I begin my descent into a never-ending darkness...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x007E06>
<Return>

<Label 0x007E07>
<If 0x151A doesn't equal 00 goto 0x007EDA><ClearText>"Long live Lord Lynx! Glory to the Magical Gobblers!" says the last of the goblins as it comes crashing to the ground in a bloody mess!
<PlaySound 0B><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D83><Waitpad> Phew... that's the last of them.
<waitpad><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x007EC9><24, 1F, 1E> However, as the blood begins to trickle down my head, everything I see before me becomes soaked in a deep, dark redness...
<Waitpad><Delay 0A><FadeOut 60, 32><24, 9F, 08><ClearBG> Kid's voice quickly becomes farther and farther away, as I begin my descent into a never-ending darkness...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x007EC9>
<ClearText><Goto 0x008A42>

<Label 0x007EDA>
<Return>

<Label 0x007EDB>
<ClearText><Call 0x0081D3> Frantically parrying the goblin's attack, I try to lunge with my knife...
<Waitpad><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x007F7A> However, before I can do anything, the goblin snaps me up in its thick arms and smashes me as hard as it can into the floor!
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpad> My mind goes completely blank from the shock.
<Subtract 14 from 0x1514><Call 0x007DC9><Goto 0x007FBC>

<Label 0x007F7A>
 Quick as a mouse, I slice into the goblin's side!<call 0x000d89><delay 0A> It lets loose a gnarling scream of pain as its putrid face contorts in agony!

<Label 0x007FBC>
<Waitpad><Call 0x007FCD><Subtract 01 from 0x151A><Call 0x007E07><Goto 0x0081EE>

<Label 0x007FCD>
<ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 03><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x008064> Kid comes to my aid, delivering a lightning-quick strike to one of the goblins!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad>"What's the matter, huh!? Where's yer Magical Gobbler skills now, or whatever ya call it?"
<waitpad> The goblin can't help but collapse onto the floor in pain. Kid boots it in the jaw before backing away for her next attack.
<Waitpad>"Quit screwin' around, Serge! Keep an eye on yer own trouble!"
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x008064>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00811D> Beside me, an arrow of light jumps out from Magil's fingertips, instantly pulverizing the goblin!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> The goblin topples to the ground, half vaporized. Magil stares at it with his ever-present eyes of steel as his dark cape flaps in the breeze.
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x00811D>
<If 0x1519 is less than 01 goto 0x0081D1> Just then, I start to hear an odd howling noise from behind me. I turn around to see Magil's Black Wind spell streaking out from his fingertips, transforming in midair into a countless number of razors! They fly like homing missiles into one of the goblins, cutting it to shreds!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><cleartext>"H, how can a human have such power? Who are you!? Aaauughh!!"
<waitpad> The goblin shrieks in fear as its body is effortlessly torn to pieces! Magil's expression remains unchanged as he silently surveys the scene, looking for his next target.
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x0081D1>
<ClearText><Return>

<Label 0x0081D3>
<Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 01><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0081E9><Set 0x1517 to 00><Goto 0x0081ED>

<Label 0x0081E9>
<Set 0x1517 to 01>

<Label 0x0081ED>
<Return>

<Label 0x0081EE>
<ClearText> Another huge iron ball whizzes through the air, swinging down towards me!
<PlaySound 13><Delay 08><Goto 0x008274 after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x008394> *Roll over and dodge it! 
<Choice 0x008548> *Ram the bastard!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x008274>
<ClearText> Dammit, I'm not gonna make it! The heavy large iron ball tears through the sky and swings down on my head! I try to bend down quickly to dodge it, but...
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000DA0> The next moment all I see is stars, as I lie on the floor in a daze.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><Call 0x007DC9>"Serge! Watch out!"
<Waitpad> I hear Kid screaming at me to get up. My hands are pressed against my head, trying to ease the wincing pain.
<Waitpad> Doubt and resignation will get me killed in battle. I can't end up like this!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x007B4E>

<Label 0x008394>
<ClearText><Call 0x0081D3> As quickly as I can, I roll over and try to dodge the attack!
<Waitpad><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x008418> Yes! The iron ball smashes into the floor, sending sparks flying everywhere!
<PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D83><Waitpad> It misses me by a hair's breadth. I frantically scramble away from the weapon.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x007B4E><Goto 0x00848F>

<Label 0x008418>
 However, the iron ball strikes me square in the back, sending me clear off my feet!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad> I hit the ground with a hard thud, as the back of my head smacks against the hard stone floor!
<Waitpad><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><Call 0x007DC9> I roll over and try to recover, but the throbs of pain are unbearable...
<Waitpad>"Sing, boy! Sing the song of pain!"


<Label 0x00848F>
<Waitpad><ClearText> Scampering away, I suddenly see a dark shadow cover the ground in front of me. Fearfully looking up, a huge goblin towers directly above my quivering body!
<Waitpad>"Die!!" the goblin roars, swinging his weapon down!
<Waitpad> No...! I won't go that easy!
<Waitpad><Call 0x007FCD><Subtract 01 from 0x151A><Call 0x007E07> Somehow, I manage to reel to my feet and avoid the blow.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x007B4E>

<Label 0x008548>
<ClearText><Call 0x0081D3> I've got to think of a better strategy than just standing around! I quickly put my weight onto the goblin, trying to force it off balance!
<Waitpad><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0085E1> Unfazed, the goblin moves only a little as I collide with it. I, however, bump off and tumble onto the ground!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad>"Aaarrgh!" I scream, as the goblin kicks me in the ribs!
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpad><Subtract 1C from 0x1514><Call 0x007DC9><Goto 0x00868A>

<Label 0x0085E1>
 Gritting my teeth, I butt my head against the goblin's face!
<Call 0x000DA0><Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> My head feels like it's been hit by a hammer. However, as I open my eyes I see that the goblin's in a lot worse shape than I am. It falls backwards in a daze, its mouth a bloody mess.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><Subtract 01 from 0x151A><Call 0x007E07> My head feels like it's on fire. I take a second to regain my wits.
<waitpad><Call 0x007DC9>

<Label 0x00868A>
<ClearText><Call 0x0081D3><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0086A4><Call 0x007FCD><Subtract 01 from 0x151A><Call 0x007E07>

<Label 0x0086A4>
<Goto 0x007B4E>

<Label 0x0086A8>
<ClearText>"It seems we've fallen prey to another one of Lord Lynx's traps."
<waitpad> Kid and I turn to Magil.
<Waitpad>"Huh? What the bloody hell are you talkin' about?" asks Kid.
<waitpad> The scarlet jewel Magil holds in his hand breaks into a thousand tiny pieces with a loud snap.
<PlaySound 1D><waitpad>"It was a fake."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"That cheapskate... I shoulda known!" Kid shouts.
<Waitpad> Kid's the last person in the world Lynx would probably think of hearing that word from...
<Waitpad>"Anyhow, let's go. The real one's still gotta be in this mansion, somewhere..."
<Waitpad>"Yeah."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x0087EB><Set 0x14B6 to 01><Goto 0x006175>

<Label 0x0087EB>
<ClearText>"They said they were Lynx's personal guards, yeah? They might have some valuable stuff on 'em..." but before she even finishes speaking, Kid starts to search through the head goblin's clothes.
<Waitpad> Sheesh, there's really no need to be such a scavenger...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey, what's this?" she says, removing a small metal object from the goblin's pocket. It's a hand-shaped medallion of some sort, covered in archaic-looking symbols.
<Waitpad>"It's a key," Magil says, walking over towards us. "These markings suggest it unlocks a certain magical seal."
<Waitpad>"Wow... well, their loss," says Kid, casually putting the plate in her pocket.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Dammit, they don't have any other good stuff. Cheap goblins...."
<Waitpad> She stands up and looks around, sighing. "It'd be a waste to leave all this loot behind, though!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"We can always come back for it later, Kid."
<Waitpad> Kid turns around and grins. "Yeah, yer right. Okay, let's go. The night won't last forever."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Return>

<Label 0x008A42>
<FadeOut 70, 1E><Delay 08><ClearText><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><27, 01><Call 0x000A58><04, FF, 00><25, 00><FadeIn 69, 28><Delay 0D><PlaySong 0F>"Easy... easy," says Kid, wiping some sweat off her brow.
<Waitpad><If 0x14BD doesn't equal 00 goto 0x008A9D><Goto 0x008CCF>

<Label 0x008A9D>
 Suddenly, Kid shoots an angry look at me. "So, ya wanna double-cross us, leavin' us to die when we need ya the most?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"No...! That... that was just an act! I only wanted to throw them off guard. I was trying to divert the attention from you! Of course I intended to help you!"
<Waitpad> I don't like the way Kid's looking at me one bit...
<Waitpad><If 0x14BE doesn't equal 00 goto 0x008BA4><Goto 0x0086A8>

<Label 0x008BA4>
<Goto 0x008BA8>

<Label 0x008BA8>
<ClearText>"We must be on our way," Magil says. "There's no way of knowing who else knows we're here now."
<Waitpad>"I know. That bastard's causin' us too much trouble..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14BD doesn't equal 01 goto 0x008C7E> Phew... that was close. Kid's not the type of person to let something like that slide very easily...
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x008C7E>
<ClearText><Call 0x0087EB><ClearText><Set 0x14B6 to 01><Goto 0x006175>

<Label 0x008CCF>
<ClearText><If 0x1515 is greater than 65 goto 0x008E2E><If 0x1515 is greater than 29 goto 0x008D7F>"Hey, fool," she says, staring bitterly at me. "I can take care of myself."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Her eyes start to quiver, and she turns away.
<Waitpad>"But... thanks, mate."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x008E2A>

<Label 0x008D7F>
"Dammit Serge, yer such a loon, thinkin' you could rescue me from those goons like that. Heh, it worked out pretty well though, eh mate?"
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x008E2A>
<Goto 0x008F1F>

<Label 0x008E2E>
"Serge, ya goof, I can take care'a myself. But thanks, mate," she says, cracking a smile.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Her face hits me like a glimmering beam of light, cleansing my darkness and filling me with joy.
<waitpad>"I'll never forget what ya did back there... even if I never see ya again after tonight."
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x008F1F>
<ClearText><If 0x14BE doesn't equal 00 goto 0x008F2C><Goto 0x0086A8>

<Label 0x008F2C>
<Goto 0x008BA8>

<Label 0x008F30>
<FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000AEE><FadeIn 70, 0A> With Kid in the lead, we ascend the narrow staircase...
<Waitpad><If 0x14A8 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x008F81><Goto 0x009008>

<Label 0x008F7D>
<Goto 0x008F85>

<Label 0x008F81>
<Goto 0x009FF4>

<Label 0x008F85>
<ClearText><If 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x008F92><Goto 0x03382B>

<Label 0x008F92>
<If 0x149F doesn't equal 01 goto 0x008F9E><Goto 0x02EDC5>

<Label 0x008F9E>
"The treasure can wait. We must first find the Frozen Flame."
<Waitpad>"I know. Sheeze, yer no fun."
<delay 0a><choice 0x00588B> *Proceed towards the terrace. 
<Choice 0x008F30> *Proceed to the staircase.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x009008>
 The cracked stone stairs seem to endlessly twist upwards. It feels like we're heading up to a scaffold to be executed...
<Waitpad><Cleartext><Set 0x14A8 to 01><Set 0x14B2 to 01><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><Call 0x0039C2>
<ClearText><Delay 09> Atop the staircase, an old but solid door waits for us silently. This damp place fills me with a feeling of dread.
<Waitpad>"There's a faint voice comin' from the other side of the door," says Kid. I fear the worst.
<waitpad><ClearText>"Maybe we should check somewhere else..." I say.
<Waitpad>"What'sa matter, ya chicken?" she says while glancing at me, but I can tell by the sound of her voice that she isn't feeling much better about this than I am. There's something wrong about this place, and we all know it...
<delay 0a><Choice 0x009229> *Go back down the stairs. 
<Choice 0x0091D9> *Open the door.
<Start Clock><ClearText>

<Label 0x0091D9>
<Set 0x14C9 to 00><If 0x14A9 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0091E9><Goto 0x00A078>

<Label 0x0091E9>
<ClearText><Call 0x0039CF><Delay 1E><FadeOut 70, 3C><ClearText><Goto 0x00932A>

<Label 0x009229>
<ClearText><Delay 05>"I really think we ought to come back some other time," I say hesitantly. Magil doesn't look too enthusiastic either.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What, you wanna turn back? Arrite, guess I got no choice," Kid exclaims while shrugging her shoulders.
<Waitpad> How rare, Kid listening to other people for a change.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><Delay 08><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x0057DA>

<Label 0x00932A>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000AD9><FadeIn 70, 28><Delay 0A> It's a small room, one you'd find in a stone tower. It's empty, and I can't find a single window in it.
<Waitpad>"What the hell kinda room is this?"
<waitpad> Although she's trying to hide it, I notice a shiver running down Kid's spine.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14C1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0093BB><Goto 0x03FCC5>

<Label 0x0093BB>
<Goto 0x0093BF>

<Label 0x0093BF>
<ClearText>"There may be something of use here. Let us search more closely," Magil says quietly.
<Waitpad>"Ya really think we'll find somethin'? Hrmf..."
<Waitpad> Kid proceeds to the middle of the room, while I examine the walls and floor.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The stone floor is filled with countless scratches, covered by splotches of a dry dark ink.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey Magil, would you come over here please? Something is carved into the wall here. I think it's an inscription of some sort..."
<Waitpad> Magil kneels down in front of the wall and examines the writing. Looking closer at it, it appears to be written in blood.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Indeed. This text has been worn down with age. Most of it is unreadable."
<Waitpad> Here's what I can make out:
<delay 0a>
                 ...won't la...   mu... onger... 
            ...cia Dragoons....  nee...he encha... 
                swor... order to... ...proof...
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 00><PlaySound 27><Delay 0F><PlaySound 34><Delay 0F> Without any warning, the door slams shut! We stand up, taken by surprise!
<Waitpad><PlaySong 05> Then suddenly, a low rumbling starts to fill the room!
<Waitpad>"What's happening!?" Kid shouts, looking around frantically.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 2A><PlaySound 2A><Delay 0F>"What's that above us!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><27, 00><Call 0x000ADF><Delay 03><Call 0x000C1E><Delay 1E><ClearText><Set 0x14A9 to 01><PlaySound 18><0E, 02, 12, 41><FadeOut F0, 1E><Delay 0F><0E, 03, 05, 06><PlaySound 00><Delay 05><Call 0x000AD9><FadeIn F0, 14>"What now? There's no time to lose!"
<Delay 0a><Goto 0x00A2F8 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x009B06> *Try to stop the ceiling! 
<Choice 0x009D70> *Break through the wall! 
<Choice 0x009727> *Try to ram the door!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x009727>
<ClearText> Kid flies like an arrow, ramming against the door!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D7D> Her small body bounces back -- the door is far too
heavy!
<waitpad>"Bollocks!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Magil streaks across the room like a hurricane, dashing against the solid oak!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D7D> The door creaks, but holds tight!
<Waitpad><ClearText> My turn.
<Waitpad> I ram into the door with all my strength!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D7D>"Aaarrgh!"
<waitpad> A heavy shock shoots through my body, but the door doesn't budge an inch!
<Waitpad><ClearText> The rumbling continues to get louder and louder, reminding us of the rusty blades, eager to greet us!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Serge! Magil! Come on, together!"
<Waitpad> The three of us start to ram against the door
simultaneously with all our strength!
<Waitpad><Cleartext><PlaySound 2C><Call 0x000D7D> The door hinge gives! We stumble outside, barely escaping certain death!
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 04><ClearBG><27, 01><Delay 08><Call 0x000C9E><Delay 02><Call 0x000CAA><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 0A>
<clearText> Behind us, we hear the gut-wrenching sounds of the blades meeting the stone floor. I watch the morbid scene in a daze, gasping huge breaths of air.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7> Finally, the grinding sound fades away. It seems the ceiling has stopped.
<Waitpad>"Damn that Lynx, toyin' with us like that..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"So, this is the torture chamber. I wonder how many of the Acacia Dragoons it has claimed," Magil whispers.
<Waitpad>"Who?" I ask.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The Acacia Dragoons. They were once an elite force serving General Viper, a powerful man who used to rule the western territory of Gerzbuehle. They were defeated more than ten years ago, by the very hands of Lord Lynx. By the looks of things, we have apparently found their resting place."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Eh, who cares," says Kid as she stands up. "Generals and Knights and everything, it sounds like some old bedtime story."
<Waitpad> Magil shrugs his shoulders in silence as we start down the stairs, eager to get away from this awful place.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0057DA>

<Label 0x009B06>
<ClearText>"We've got to stop the ceiling!!" I shout.
<Waitpad>"How!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I don't know... shouldn't there be a secret release lever somewhere?"
<Waitpad> We quickly search the floor and walls as the rumble of the dreaded ceiling gets louder and louder!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaargh!!"
<Waitpad> One of the blades slices into my shoulder! There's no time to look for a lever!!
<Waitpad><Subtract 12 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x009C2F> Oh no...
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 1F, 0A> A shock shoots through my body as my clothes start to take on a dark hue of red.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 1E><ClearBG><24, 9F, 00> Everything I see before me becomes soaked in a deep, dark redness...
<Waitpad> Kid's voice quickly becomes farther and farther away, as I begin my descent into a never-ending darkness...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x009C2F>
<ClearText> What do we going to do!?
<Delay 05><Goto 0x00A2F8 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x009C88> *Try to stop the ceiling! 
<Choice 0x009D70> *Bash the wall! 
<Choice 0x009727> *Ram the door!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x009C88>
<ClearText>"Okay! Let's try to stop this thing!"
<Waitpad> I stand firm and raise both of my hands high to support the ceiling.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Stop it Serge! It's too strong!"
<Waitpad> She's right! The ceiling is too heavy -- I'm not making any difference! It continues to descend onto us more and more!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaaahhhh!!"
<waitpad> It's getting too close! I can't get out!
<waitpad> Help!!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x009D70>
<ClearText>"There has to be a way out of here!"
<Waitpad> We start ramming up against the walls.<playsound 0b><delay 0a> However, the stone mesh holds tight!
<waitpad> This isn't working! The ceiling is getting too close!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaahhh!"
<waitpad> A blade has sliced into my neck!
<Waitpad><Subtract 0F from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x009E7E> Dammit...!
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 1F, 0A> As the blood begins to trickle down my neck, everything I see before me becomes soaked in a deep, dark redness...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 1E><ClearBG><24, 9F, 00> Kid's voice quickly becomes farther and farther away, as I begin my descent into a never-ending darkness...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x009E7E>
<ClearText> What are we going to do!?
<Delay 05><Goto 0x00A2F8 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x009B06> *Try to stop the ceiling! 
<Choice 0x009ED7> *Bash the wall! 
<Choice 0x009727> *Try to ram the door!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x009ED7>
<ClearText> Aren't there any cracks in the wall? Come on... there have to be at least one or two!
<Waitpad>"Forget it, Serge! We don't have time!"
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaahhhh!!"
<waitpad> I feel a flash of pain throughout my left temple! I stumble to the ground as I press against the side of my head, trying to stop the blood from gushing out!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Serge!!"
<Waitpad> Kid's screaming fades slowly away into the distance as I lay there, stunned...
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0><Call 0x000DA0><24, 1F, 0A> The deep redness overcomes me...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><24, 9F, 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x009FF4>
<Set 0x14B2 to 01> I nearly slip and fall on one of the damp stairs. Bracing myself against the cold walls, I keep on climbing...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><cleartext><Call 0x0039C2><delay 08> We come to the old, stoic-looking door, waiting for us silently atop the staircase.
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x0091D9> *Enter. 
<Choice 0x00A298> *Head back down the stairs.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00A078>
<ClearText><If 0x14EF doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A0D7>"We have no business here. We should search elsewhere," says Magil.
<Waitpad>"Yeah, it'll be morning soon. Let's go."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x0057DA>

<Label 0x00A0D7>
<If 0x14C1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A0E3><Goto 0x0400A3>

<Label 0x00A0E3>
<If 0x14BB doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A1F5>"I don't care how many clues are hidden here. Unless we find a way to disarm that bloody trap, there's no way I'm goin' in there again."
<Waitpad><If 0x14C0 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00A18F>"General Viper's daughter... I wonder if she knows anything."
<Waitpad>"Yeah, her name was Riddel, right?"
<Goto 0x00A1CB>

<Label 0x00A18F>
"Without that ancient sword Einlanzer, it's hopeless..."


<Label 0x00A1CB>
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Yeah... well, come on, let's go."
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x0057DA>

<Label 0x00A1F5>
"You wanna go in there again? Are you serious!?"
<Waitpad> Then, suddenly, in a quiet voice, as though she's afraid others will hear it, she asks, "Yer not a masochist or somethin', are ya?"
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><Delay 08><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x0057DA>

<Label 0x00A298>
<ClearText>"There's no way I'm goin' in there," Kid says, turning back.
<Waitpad> The two of us follow her down the stairs.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0057DA>

<Label 0x00A2F8>
<ClearText> Wh, what do we do now!?
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0D>"Serge!!" Kid screams desperately. The sound of blades is getting louder and louder! I don't know what to do!!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Arghhh!!"
<waitpad> A blade has sliced into my neck!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00A3CD> Oh, no...
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 1F, 0A> As the blood begins to trickle down my neck, everything I see before me becomes soaked in a deep, dark redness...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 1E><ClearBG><24, 9F, 00> Kid's voice quickly becomes farther and farther away, as I begin my descent into a never-ending darkness...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x00A3CD>
<ClearText> What are we going to do!?
<Delay 05><If 0x14C8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A438><Goto 0x00A2F8 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x04062F> *Thrust the sword into the ceiling! 
<Choice 0x04072E> *Thrust the sword into the floor! 
<Choice 0x0403FA> *Thrust the sword into Kid!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00A438>
<Goto 0x00A2F8 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x009B06> *Try to stop the ceiling! 
<Choice 0x009D70> *Bash the wall! 
<Choice 0x009727> *Ram the door!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00A475>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x1493 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00A492><If 0x14A4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00A492><Set 0x1518 to 01><Goto 0x003CF2>

<Label 0x00A492>
<If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A4A2><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00A4AA>

<Label 0x00A4A2>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00A4AA>
<27, 01><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000A52><FadeIn 70, 0A> After a while, the path splits into three directions. To the left is a descending staircase, while the path on the right extends into darkness. Another passageway lies ahead...
<delay 0a><choice 0x00A593> *Take the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00A657><If 0x14AE doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00A541> *Proceed on ahead. 
<Goto 0x00A550>

<Label 0x00A541>
 *Proceed ahead to the <if 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A542>cathedral. 
<goto 0x00A550>

<label 0x00A542>
ballroom. 
<goto 0x00A550>

<Label 0x00A550>
<Choice 0x00A739><If 0x14AA doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00A570> *Turn and head down the right path. 
<Goto 0x00A586>

<Label 0x00A570>
 *Turn right, heading towards the study. 


<Label 0x00A586>
<Choice 0x00DC89> *Head back towards the terrace.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00A593>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000C87><FadeIn 70, 0A><If 0x149F doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A5B1><Delay 1E><Goto 0x02FF7A><Goto 0x00A5B5>

<Label 0x00A5B1>
<Set 0x14ED to 01>

<Label 0x00A5B5>
 As I start to slowly descend the stairs in the dim light, I stretch my hands out in front of me to try and feel for something. However, all I'm greeted with is the moist feeling of these grimy stone walls.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><Delay 10>
<cleartext><Delay 0A> We've descended the staircase. To the left lies a huge stone archway, and to the right we can see a narrow path twisting into the darkness.
<delay 0a><Set 0x14C7 to 00><Choice 0x00EB5B> *Enter the passage on the right. 
<Choice 0x00DD90> *Go through the archway on the left. 
<Choice 0x00EF61> *Head back up the stairs.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00A657>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A66C><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00A674>

<Label 0x00A66C>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00A674>
<27, 01><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000A52><FadeIn 70, 0A> We continue through the passageway...<If 0x14E4 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A6D6><If 0x14E5 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A6D6><If 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A6D6><If 0x14EA doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A6D6><If 0x14E7 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A6D6><Goto 0x0353A7>

<Label 0x00A6D6>
<delay 0a> After a while we
arrive at a beautifully decorated set of double doors. <Call 0x0039E7><If 0x14AE doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A718>
This is the <if 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A6D7>cathedral.<delay 03><goto 0x00A718>

<label 0x00A6D7>
ballroom.<delay 03><goto 0x00A718>

<Label 0x00A718>
<Delay 07>
<Choice 0x00D7DE> *Enter. 
<Choice 0x00BE9E> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00A739>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A74E><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00A756>

<Label 0x00A74E>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00A756>
<27, 01><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><delay 08> We head down the path. After a while, it ends at a stained wooden door.<Call 0x0039C2><FadeIn 70, 0A><If 0x14AA doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A7B5> <Delay 05>This is the study, I think...

<Label 0x00A7B5>
<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x00A7D6> *Go in. 
<Choice 0x00BFB1> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00A7D6>
<ClearText><If 0x14AA doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A7E3><Goto 0x00BD96>

<Label 0x00A7E3>
<Set 0x14AA to 01><Call 0x0039CF><delay 10><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7>"Guess this's the study."
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 11><Call 0x000A81><FadeIn 6C, 28><Delay 0D> This huge room is faintly lit by the moonlight, shining in through a tall window. In the back of the room stands a large, ornately decorated desk.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Row after row of bookshelves house thousands of thick, dusty books. A painting is hung on the rear wall, sharing space with various exotic curios.
<If 0x14B0 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00A936><Waitpad><Goto 0x00C486>

<Label 0x00A936>
<delay 0a><choice 0x00A965> *Examine the desk. 
<Choice 0x00ACB6> *Walk over to the bookshelves. 
<Choice 0x00B03D> *Check out the painting.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00A965>
<ClearText> I walk over and open a drawer in the mahogany desk.
<waitpad> The drawers contain writing materials and documents, arranged in an orderly fashion. Unfortunately, they don't seem to contain anything worth mentioning.
<Waitpad><ClearText> But then, a small picture in the drawer catches my eye. It's a portrait of a friendly-looking girl with a faint smile on her face.
<Waitpad> I hold it up, wondering who it could be...
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00AA2A><Goto 0x03852C>

<Label 0x00AA2A>
"It's prolly Lynx's adopted daughter," Kid says, looking over my shoulder with her nose crinkled. "...Pedophile."
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x1493 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00AC27><If 0x149B doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00AC27><Set 0x14AB to 01><Set 0x149E to 01><Set 0x149B to 01> A faint gasp from behind me suddenly catches my attention. Turning around, I see Magil walking over to us with his eyes fixed firmly on the picture. I don't think I've ever seen him like this before...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What is it, Magil?"
<Waitpad> My question visibly startles Magil, but after a few moments, he returns to his usual wooden face.
<Waitpad>"...Nothing."
<waitpad> His firm response doesn't leave much room for questioning.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"We're wasting valuable time. We should look elsewhere," Magil says abruptly, turning towards the door.
<waitpad> Kid and I look at each other, perplexed.
<Waitpad>"What's his problem?"
<waitpad>"Don't ask me..."
<Waitpad>"Hey Magil, wait up!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x00BFB1>

<Label 0x00AC27>
<cleartext><volume 00, 00><PlaySong 0C><volume ff, ff><delay 10> Suddenly, we start to hear footsteps coming this way. Though they aren't that loud, they boom like thunder in the night.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid and I jump up. Magil swiftly conceals himself in the nearby shadows.
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x00B455> *"Quick, behind the door!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x00B79A> *"Quick, under the desk!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00ACB6>
<ClearText> I walk over to one of the bookshelves and start looking through the rows of books. Most of them are written in languages I've never even seen before.
<Waitpad> I pull one of the books off a shelf. It's so heavy I have to support it with both of my hands. I clumsily turn up a random page.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The book contains page after page of strange scribbled symbols. They twist and dance, almost as though they're alive...
<Waitpad> Wait... what? I blink my eyes, bringing my face closer to the book. It had to have been my imagination. They're not actually moving. Wait, are they?
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00ADDE><Goto 0x03852C>

<Label 0x00ADDE>
 I turn up another page. It features the same kind of strange contorted symbols. It's making my head hurt just by looking at them.
<Waitpad>"What could this be...?"
<Waitpad>"Huh?" says Kid, coming to my side.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, it's a magically coded book. Ya can't read it. Besides, all these magical books are prolly cursed. Wouldn't do ya any good to read em, even if ya could."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Watch yerself around these books, mate. There might be somethin' in one of em..."
<waitpad>"What are you talking about?"
<Waitpad><cleartext> And then, just as I turn my head to ask Kid about it, the book starts to moan in a dreadful way. I immediately slam it shut, jamming it back in the bookshelf!
<Waitpad><Cleartext> Magil, who had been watching us the entire time, approaches the shelf and reaches out for a time-worn, leather-bound book.
<Waitpad>"You know about this stuff?" Kid asks, looking up at Magil like a duck in a thunderstorm.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Some. This is an ancient tome from a far away land. It was once known as the Book of the Dead. I never expected to find it here, in Lord Lynx's possession."
<Waitpad> Magil gazes at the timeworn, leather-bound book.
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x00C237> *Ask him to open it. 
<Choice 0x00C0C6> *Recommend putting it back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00B03D>
<ClearText> I walk over and examine the painting, illuminated by the pale moonlight.
<Waitpad><If 0x1493 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00B197><If 0x149B doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00B197><If 0x14A5 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00B197><If 0x14ED doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00B197><Set 0x14AD to 01><Set 0x149F to 01> It's an oil painting of a very strange landscape. I've never seen anything quite like it before.
<Waitpad> It's a depiction of an endless, scorched desert, filled with red sand stretching out to the horizon. There, unbelievably tall mountains soar upwards for miles and miles, meeting a blazing orange sky.
<Waitpad><ClearText> It seems surreal, almost out of this world. But even more than that, it seems like a very sad, lonely painting, as if it's depicting a fleeting memory of a desolate soul. What kind of person could have painted this?
<waitpad> And furthermore, why's it here in the study? None of the other stuff around here matches it...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x02DB3F>

<Label 0x00B197>
 It's a watercolor painting, depicting a peculiar scenario. Within the painting, it appears to be day and night, as well as spring, summer, autumn, and winter, all at the same time. Everything looks melted away, fading into everything else.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Set 0x14CE to 01> At the core of this swirling, chaotic maelstrom, there's a small black gem, burning with a deep red flame inside of it.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00B290><Goto 0x03852C>

<Label 0x00B290>
"What is it, mate? Find somethin' valuable?"
<Waitpad> Kid comes over to my side and reaches out for a fancy plate.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The ransom for just one of these could feed a family for an entire year, I bet..."
<Waitpad> Suddenly she stops, looking over towards me.
<waitpad>"Come on, there's no wrong in takin' it..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Let's focus on the Flame, Kid."
<waitpad> After a moment, she hesitantly puts the decorated plate back on the shelf.
<Waitpad><ClearText><volume 00, 00><PlaySong 0C><volume ff, ff><delay 10> Suddenly, we start to hear footsteps coming this way. Though they aren't that loud, they boom like thunder in the night.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid and I jump up. Magil swiftly conceals himself in the nearby shadows.
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x00B455> *"Quick, behind the door!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x00B79A> *"Quick, under the desk!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00B455>
<ClearText> Kid and I quickly hide behind the door with our backs pressed against the wall.
<Waitpad><ClearText><playsong 00><PlaySound 27><FadeIn 6A, 0A> I hold my breath as the door creaks open.
<Waitpad> A quivering candlelight spreads in through the doorway. However, whoever opened the door doesn't seem to have any intention of entering the room.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Mmmh... thought I heard something. No reason for anybody to be in here though, since the Master is away. Still, with those Porre southerners on the move, it's better safe than sorry..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 27><FadeOut 6A, 0A><Delay 08><PlaySound 34> The door closes softly, blanketing the room in darkness once again. <PlaySong 0C><volume ff, 00>The voice becomes more and more distant as the footsteps fade into silence. Still, we wait, without moving a muscle.
<Waitpad>"So, Porre is up to something," Magil mutters, emerging from the shadows.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Porre is a large country governing the southern continent. I hear it's a pretty well-developed and fairly prosperous place. What would they be after in these outlands? Surely not the Frozen Flame...<Delay 05>?
<waitpad> No matter how valuable it may be, in the end it's just a jewel... a piece of rock. How valuable could it really be?
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00BFB1>

<Label 0x00B79A>
<ClearText> Kid and I scurry down underneath the desk. Curling up, I wrap her up in my arms.
<waitpad>"Hmph... smaller than I thought."
<waitpad>"What? Hey! I... 
<ClearText><playsong 00><PlaySound 27><FadeIn 6C, 0A><delay 0a> The door opens with a sudden creak. We sit motionless without making a peep.
<Waitpad> The quivering light of a candle spreads in from the doorway. Soon after, a hand holding a candlestick comes into view from behind the door.
<Waitpad> Tightening, I nervously hold my breath.
<Waitpad><ClearText> When I look down, my heart skips a beat. With Kid's lips right in front of me, I feel myself starting to lose control. So full... and pink... and glossy...
<Waitpad> My heart starts pounding faster and faster. I force myself to stop staring and shut my eyes tight.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Whoever opened the door doesn't seem to have any intention of entering the room.
<Waitpad>"Mmmh... thought I heard something. No reason for anybody to be in here though, since the Master is away. Still, with those Porre southerners on the move, it's never too safe to be sorry...."
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 27><FadeOut 6A, 0A><Delay 08><PlaySound 34> The door closes softly, covering the room in darkness once again. For a while we wait, not moving an inch.
<Waitpad><PlaySong 0C><volume ff, 00> The footsteps echo away into the distance.
<waitpad> Somewhere in the back of my mind, I can't stop thinking about how great she smells...
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Hey, how long are you gonna stick to me like that?" Kid asks, <If 0x1515 is greater than 65 goto 0x00BADF><If 0x1515 is greater than 29 goto 0x00BABF>pushing my jaw upwards.
<Goto 0x00BADB>

<Label 0x00BABF>
blowing into my ear.

<Label 0x00BADB>
<Goto 0x00BAFB>

<Label 0x00BADF>
folding her lips around my ear.


<Label 0x00BAFB>
<Waitpad><PlaySong 00><volume 00, ff>"Huh? Uh... I mean... sorry!"
<waitpad><cleartext> I quickly get up, bumping my head against the desk with a loud bang.
<PlaySound 0B><Waitpad><Subtract 02 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00BB55><Set 0x1514 to 01>

<Label 0x00BB55>
<Add 06 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00BB65><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x00BB65>
 I crawl out, rubbing my head.
<waitpad>"Man, that stings."
<Waitpad><cleartext> Kid comes out next. Crouching, she looks me over and says, "Ya goof... you arrite?"
<waitpad>"Yeah, I'm fine."
<Waitpad><cleartext>"So, Porre is up to something," Magil says quietly, emerging from the shadows.
<Waitpad> Porre is a large country governing the southern continent. I hear it's a pretty well developed and fairly prosperous place. But what would they be after in these outlands? Surely not the Frozen Flame...<Delay 10>?
<waitpad> No matter how valuable it may be, in the end it's just a jewel... a piece of rock. How valuable could it really be?
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00BFB1>

<Label 0x00BD96>
<Call 0x0039CF><Call 0x000A81><FadeIn 6E, 14><Delay 08><If 0x14B1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00BDE9>"We've seen enough here," says Magil. "Let's search somewhere else."
<Waitpad> We leave the room, heading back through the corridor.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00BFB1><Waitpad>

<Label 0x00BDE9>
<If 0x14B0 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00BDFB><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 11><Goto 0x00C486>

<Label 0x00BDFB>
"Come on mate, we don't have time for this. Randomly searchin' a place as big as this is stupid. We need to get a move on!" Kid says, irritated.
<waitpad> She's right, I suppose. If we keep on dawdling, it'll be morning before we know it.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00BFB1>

<Label 0x00BE9E>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00BEB3><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00BEBB>

<Label 0x00BEB3>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00BEBB>
<27, 01><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000C3F><FadeIn 70, 0A><If 0x14AE doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00BEE9><if 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00BEBC> We leave the cathedral, heading back through the corridor.
<Goto 0x00BEF7>

<label 0x00BEBC>
 We leave the ballroom, heading back through the passageway.
<Goto 0x00BEF7>

<Label 0x00BEE9>
 We head back through the passageway.


<Label 0x00BEF7>
<Waitpad> After a bit of walking, we come to a three-way split in the path.
<Waitpad><ClearText> To the right is a set of stairs leading down, while a narrow passageway on the left leads off into darkness. The path up ahead will take us towards the terrace.
<delay 0a><choice 0x00A593> *Take the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00DC89> *Proceed towards the terrace. 
<Choice 0x00A739><If 0x14AA doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00BF90> *Head into the left passageway. 
<Goto 0x00BFA4>

<Label 0x00BF90>
 *Turn left, heading towards the study. 


<Label 0x00BFA4>
<Choice 0x00A657> *Retrace our steps.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00BFB1>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00BFC6><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00BFCE>

<Label 0x00BFC6>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00BFCE>
<27, 01><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><26, 00><If 0x14AA doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00BFFB><delay 08> We retrace our steps through the dark passageway. Finally, the we come to a three-way branch.
<waitpad><Goto 0x00C018>

<Label 0x00BFFB>
 <delay 10>We leave the study, retracing our steps through the dark passageway. Finally, the passage comes to a three-way branch.
<waitpad>


<Label 0x00C018>
<ClearText> There's a descending staircase in front of us, in addition to passageways on the right and left. The one on the left will take us back towards the terrace.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x00A593> *Descend the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00DC89> *Head towards the terrace. 
<Choice 0x00A657><If 0x14AE doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00C0A5> *Enter the right passageway. 
<Goto 0x00C0B9>

<Label 0x00C0A5>
 *Enter the right passageway, proceeding towards the <if 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00C0A6>cathedral. 
<goto 0x00C0B9>

<label 0x00C0A6>
ballroom. 
<goto 0x00C0B9>

<Label 0x00C0B9>
<Choice 0x00A739> *Retrace our steps.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00C0C6>
<ClearText>"Maybe it's better if we don't open it, Magil..."
<Waitpad> Magil stares silently at the book cover for a moment. Then, nodding silently, he returns the book to the shelf.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Perhaps it's best to leave such ancient knowledge alone."
<Waitpad>"I swear, you sound just like an old hermit sometimes, Magil."
<Waitpad><volume 00, 00><PlaySong 0C><volume ff, ff><delay 10> Suddenly, we start to hear footsteps coming this way. Though they aren't that loud, they boom like thunder in the night.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid and I jump up. Magil swiftly conceals himself in the nearby shadows.
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x00B455> *"Quick, behind the door!"
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x00B79A> *"Quick, under the desk!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00C237>
<ClearText><If 0x1493 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00C250><If 0x149B doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00C250><Set 0x14AC to 01><Set 0x149B to 01>

<Label 0x00C250>
 Prompted by curiosity, I ask Magil to open the book.
<Waitpad> He hesitates for a moment, but then nods silently and opens the thick leather cover.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The large book opens with a long creak. Suddenly, a strange sort of breeze seems to leap out from it, howling all around us.
<waitpad> Curtains, papers, and even the chandeliers sway as this odd, directionless gust of wind scurries around. After a few moments, it whisks out the door.
<Waitpad> I fearfully turn to Magil, wondering what we've done now...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey, there's nothin' written in it!" Kid says. "What gives?"
<Waitpad> Shifting his attention back to the book, Magil turns up another page. They're all blank.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Sheesh, what a waste! Let's write somethin' in it!" Kid says, already scribbling something down.
<Waitpad>"Dear Lord Lynx, go buy some real books while you're out! Jeez! And by the way, the jerk store called, and they're all outta you!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><volume 00, 00><PlaySong 0C><volume ff, ff><delay 10> Suddenly, we start to hear footsteps coming this way. Though they aren't that loud, they boom like thunder in the night.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid and I jump up. Magil swiftly conceals himself in the nearby shadows.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x00B455> *"Quick, behind the door!"
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x00B79A> *"Quick, under the desk!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00C486>
<ClearText><27, 00>"Okay! Time to find that key!" Kid says as she steps into the center of the room, surrounded by row after row of books.
<waitpad>"Where did that crazy mirror say we could find it? Hey, Serge, pay attention when I'm talkin' to ya!"
<Waitpad>"Huh? I thought you remembered which one it was..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x00C506>

<Label 0x00C506>
<ClearText>"So which is it?"
<delay 0a><TextSpeed 00><Choice 0x00C5BD> *The blue book in front.
<Choice 0x00C7F1> *The red book in front.
<Choice 0x00C9FA> *The purple book in front.
<Choice 0x00CC33> *The green book in front.
<Choice 0x00CDE9> *The blue book in back.
<Choice 0x00D06F> *The red book in back.
<Choice 0x00D28D> *The purple book in back.
<Choice 0x00D3EB> *The green book in back.
<Choice 0x00D5D3> *The white book in back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00C5BD>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"Errrr... wasn't it the one in the front shelf with the blue cover?"
<Waitpad>"The front shelf, eh. The blue one... the blue one... here it is! This one?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid pulls the book from the shelf. I watch closely as she opens it up. Her eyes become narrow as a cat's as she starts to read the mysterious symbols. Then, she begins to read a passage in a low, steady voice.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"In the week before their departure to Arrakis, when all the final scurrying about had reached a nearly unbearable frenzy, an old crone came to visit the mother of the boy, Paul.
<waitpad> It was a warm night at Castle Caladan, and the ancient pile of stone that had served the Atreides family as home for twenty-six generations bore that cooled-sweat feeling it acquired before a change in the weather..."
<Waitpad><cleartext> Kid's voice trembles as her speaking becomes softer and softer. Looking over, I see she's sunk into silence with dim eyes.
<Waitpad> Suddenly she notices me looking at her. Turning away, she quickly closes the book.
<Waitpad>"This ain't the right book, Serge. Which one is it?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00C7ED><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x00C7ED>
<Goto 0x00C506>

<Label 0x00C7F1>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"Errrr... it's the book with the red cover in front, isn't it?"
<waitpad> Kid heads to the shelf.
<Waitpad>"The red one... the red one... got it!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid pulls a book from the lower shelf. She opens it as we watch closely. Leafing through it, a passage catches her eye, which she begins to read in a low, steady voice.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti. Fly back to school, little Starling."
<Waitpad><ClearText> .........
<Waitpad>"Yuck! What the hell is this!?" Kid yells, slapping me.
<call 0x000da0><Waitpad> I feel sick.
<waitpad> Yuck.
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00C9A4><Set 0x1514 to 08>

<Label 0x00C9A4>
"Sheesh, Serge! You shouldn't let a lady read such things. Now which book is it!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00C9F6><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x00C9F6>
<Goto 0x00C506>

<Label 0x00C9FA>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"Errrr... it's the book with the purple cover in front, isn't it?"
<Waitpad> Kid heads to the shelf in front.
<Waitpad>"The purple one... the purple one... here it is! This one?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid pulls a book from one of the shelves in the middle. I watch closely as she opens it up. Her eyes become narrow as a cat's as she reads page after page of strange, convoluted symbols.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The Neo-Epoch was damaged and expelled into space without any phase changes.
<Waitpad> Warning! Warning! Engine severely damaged! Output has been reduced to 30%! Only six Antiparticle shells remain!
<waitpad> Shield range 16 sectors! L-spin reaction at the starboard bow! The enemy fleet is moving towards us!
<Waitpad> Gyado, wake up! Hiyu Corps, use your final power..."
<Waitpad><Cleartext> .........
<Waitpad>"What is this? It reminds me of...<delay 0a>"
"Of what, Kid?"
<Waitpad>"...Nothin'! Quit yankin' my chain, Serge! Which book is it!?"
<Waitpad> Sheesh...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00CC2F><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x00CC2F>
<Goto 0x00C506>

<Label 0x00CC33>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"Hmmm.... that book over there, the green one... maybe that's it..."
<Waitpad>"The green one... hmm. This one right here? Okay..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> From the bottom of the shelves, Kid pulls out an old, decaying book. She coughs a little as she opens it, trying to avoid all the dust released.
<Waitpad> After looking through it for a while, she begins to read a page in a low, steady voice...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Far out in the uncharted backwaters of the unfashionable end of the western spiral arm of the Galaxy lies a small unregarded yellow sun.
<waitpad> Orbiting this at a distance of roughly ninety-two million miles is an utterly insignificant little blue-green planet whose ape-descended lifeforms are so amazingly primitive that they still think digital watches are a pretty neat idea..."
<Waitpad><Cleartext> ........
<waitpad>"Serge, ya dummy! This ain't the right book!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00CDE5><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x00CDE5>
<Goto 0x00C506>

<Label 0x00CDE9>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"Hmm... it could be that blue book on that shelf over there..."
<waitpad>"Well -could- it be the right one, or -is- it the right one?"
<waitpad>"I don't know. I 'm pretty sure. Yeah, the blue one. Yeah."
<Waitpad> Kid heads over to the shelves, already fuming.
<Waitpad>"The blue one... the blue one... got it."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid pulls it off the shelf. I watch intently as she opens the dusty cover. Her eyes become narrow as a cat's as she reads page after page of strange, convoluted symbols.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"...It was only then that I realized that in this incredible game of life, the bonus is contained within love and adventure. Cordially enthralling myself into the temptations of the flesh despite a momentary rush of suspiciousness, finally I moved my fingers downward... ever more downward. Until, gulping down my many feelings of apprehension and vulnerability, into this pleasureful ocean, I..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> ......
<Waitpad> ..........
<Waitpad> ..................
<Waitpad> Kid's face turns red.
<Waitpad><TextSpeed 00>"What is this rubbish? What in blazes are ya havin' me read now!?"
<call 0x007474><waitpad> Abruptly, she rises to her feet.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DA0> Thwap!
<waitpad> Stars explode before my eyes!
<Waitpad><Subtract 12 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00D004> I fall backwards, into a never-ending darkness...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 60, 32><ClearBG> Kid's shouts are becoming more and more distant, as I slowly sink into the eternal silence...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x00D004>
"Enough of this! Where's the real book!?"
<Waitpad> Barely able to stand, I frantically try to reassemble my thoughts...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00D06B><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x00D06B>
<Goto 0x00C506>

<Label 0x00D06F>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"Maybe it's that red book over here in back. Yeah, that sounds like it."
<Waitpad>"The back shelf... the red one... the red one... here we go!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid pulls a book from the shelf. I watch closely as she opens it up. Her eyes become narrow as a cat's as she starts to read the mysterious symbols. Then, she begins to read a passage in a low, steady voice.
<Waitpad><ClearText><TextSpeed 00>"...Sun Tzu said:<delay 03> The art of war is of vital importance to the State. It is a matter of life and death, a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence it is a subject of inquiry which can on no account be neglected. The art of war, then, is governed by five constant factors, to be taken into account in one's deliberations, when seeking to determine the conditions obtaining in the field. These are..."
<Waitpad><call 0x007474><ClearText> .......
<Waitpad> ............
<Waitpad>"What the heck is this? Some sorta witchcraft? Quit havin' me read all these stupid books, Serge! Which one has the key!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00D289><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x00D289>
<Goto 0x00C506>

<Label 0x00D28D>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"Hmmm... I'm pretty sure it's that purple book over there... I think..."
<Waitpad>"Which one? Oh, I see it."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid pulls out a purple book, towards the bottom of the shelves. I watch closely as she opens it up. Flipping through the pages, suddenly an old brass key falls out of the book, hitting the ground with a clank!
<playsound 01><Waitpad>"All right! The key!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Add 0F to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00D385><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x00D385>
<Set 0x14B1 to 01> Throwing the book aside, Kid bends down and grabs the key. Her eyes light up as she stares at it in her hands. We race out of the study, eager to see what awaits us in the vault.
<waitpad> Magil follows behind a moment later, after returning the book to the shelf.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 68, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Delay 05><27, 01><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00BFB1>

<Label 0x00D3EB>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"I'm pretty sure it's that green book over there in back."
<Waitpad> Kid heads over to the shelves.
<Waitpad>"The green one... the green one... here, got it!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid pulls a book from the back shelf. I watch closely as she slowly opens it. Her eyes become narrow as a cat's as she reads page after page of strange, convoluted symbols.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I refuse to be a victim. When this becomes your mantra, constantly running through your head, you will shift towards me-centered living. Only by taking full responsibility for your problems, and their solutions, will you break free from the constant cycle of victimhood. Remember, you are only a victim if you choose to be."
<waitpad><ClearText>"Aaahhh!!!"
<Waitpad> ......
<Waitpad> ............
<Waitpad>"What is this drivel? I can't stand any more of this!!"
<Waitpad> Kid puts the book back.
<Waitpad>"C'mon, Serge! Where did you say it was?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00D5CF><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x00D5CF>
<Goto 0x00C506>

<Label 0x00D5D3>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"Let's try that big white book, down there in back."
<Waitpad>"The back shelf... the white one... the white one... here we go!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid pulls a book from the shelf. I watch closely as she opens it up. Her eyes become narrow as a cat's as she starts to read the mysterious symbols. Then, she begins to read a passage in a low, steady voice.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed.
<waitpad> The desert was the apotheosis of all deserts, huge, standing to the sky for what might have been parsecs in all directions. White; blinding; waterless; without feature save for the faint, cloudy haze of the mountains which sketched themselves on the horizon and the devil-grass which brought sweet dreams, nightmares, death..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid continues to read, getting lost within the book.
<Waitpad>"Hey, Kid, shouldn't we be looking for the key?"
<Waitpad>"Hold on, mate! It's startin' to get good!"
<waitpad>"But, Kid..."
<waitpad>"All right already! Sheesh! Which book did you say it was?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00D7DA><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x00D7DA>
<Goto 0x00C506>

<Label 0x00D7DE>
<ClearText><If 0x14AC doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00D7EB><Goto 0x042B93>

<Label 0x00D7EB>
<If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00D7F7><Goto 0x035D97>

<Label 0x00D7F7>
<If 0x14C2 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00D805><27, 00><Goto 0x0443AE>

<Label 0x00D805>
<If 0x14AE doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00D811><Goto 0x00DA7D>

<Label 0x00D811>
<Set 0x14AE to 01><Call 0x0039F4><ClearText><Delay 28><Call 0x000A89><FadeIn 70, cE> This seems to be Viper Manor's ballroom.
<Waitpad> Beautiful decorative ornaments rest on a large table in the center of this huge hall. Rows of huge pillars are lined up on both sides, adorned with sculptures of birds and various other animals. At the far end of the room sits a gigantic organ, taking up the entirety of the wall. Its pitch-black aura beckons us.
<Waitpad><cleartext> A countless number of candles provide a soft, flickering luminescence to the room. Everything around us shimmers in the dim candlelight.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Various portraits have been hung high up on the walls, depicting all sorts of well-dressed people. From what I can gather, they're high-quality oil paintings. They all have a similar sort of morbid gaze in their eyes, though. Who could these be? Lynx's relatives, maybe?
<Waitpad> Of these, a portrait of a young lady in a pink dress catches my eye.
<Waitpad><Cleartext><delay 10> Wait, what was that?
<waitpad> I swear she looked at me just then!
<Waitpad><cleartext><delay 10> ...Come on, Serge... time to put away the ghost stories.
<waitpad> It's just my imagination acting up again, I tell myself.
<Waitpad> It was probably a trick of light, caused by a flickering candle or something. The oils' glossy finish distorted the image for a second or two. Yeah, that's what happened.
<waitpad> But... I don't know...
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 0a>"This room's bloody strange..."
<waitpad> Kid sees it too... she has to have seen it.
<waitpad>"I suggest we look elsewhere," Magil says suddenly. Kid and I offer no objections.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><delay 10><Goto 0x00BE9E>

<Label 0x00DA7D>
<ClearText><If 0x14C2 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00DA8A><Goto 0x0443AE>

<Label 0x00DA8A>
<Call 0x0039F4><Delay 0F> Pushing her way through the massive doors, Kid steps into the huge hall.
<Waitpad>"No one's here, still..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000A89><FadeIn 70, 0A> With a countless number of candles illuminating the room, everything around us flickers and sways in the ever-changing light.
<Waitpad> Placed high up on the walls, many large portraits mysteriously stare down upon us.
<waitpad><delay 10> Wait, what was that? I could have sworn one of the faces moved just a second ago!
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 10> ...Come on, Serge... enough with all this. It was probably a trick of light, caused by a flickering candle or something. The candlelight distorted the oils' glossy finish for a second or two. Yeah, that's what probably happened.
<Waitpad> But, maybe...
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 0a>"These paintings are bloody strange..."
<waitpad> Kid sees it too... she has to have seen it.
<waitpad>"I suggest we look elsewhere," Magil says suddenly. Kid and I offer no objections.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00BE9E>

<Label 0x00DC89>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00DC9E><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00DCA6>

<Label 0x00DC9E>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00DCA6>
<27, 01><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00DCCC><If 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00DCCC><If 0x14E2 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00DCC8><Goto 0x033DC7><Goto 0x00DCCC>

<Label 0x00DCC8>
<Goto 0x033922>

<Label 0x00DCCC>
<PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000C3F><FadeIn 70, 0A> After continuing on through the passage for a while, the terrace comes into view on the right. I take a deep breath of the fresh evening air, hoping to calm my senses.
<delay 0A><Choice 0x003E60> *Continue on through the passageway. 
<Choice 0x00DD1C> *Go out onto the terrace. 
<Choice 0x00A475> *Retrace our steps.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00DD1C>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 09><Call 0x000A38><FadeIn 64, 1E> We walk quietly out onto the terrace, instantly welcomed by a cold nighttime breeze. The dreary forest we came through lies directly ahead. A light chill is sent down my spine as I watch the treetops rustle in the howling wind...
<Delay 0a><Goto 0x00DD5B>

<Label 0x00DD5B>
<Choice 0x0149E3> *Talk a little with Kid. 
<Choice 0x014BC2> *Try talking with Magil. 
<Choice 0x003C23> *Head back into Viper Manor.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00DD90>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x14B7 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00DDA1><Goto 0x00FA2C>

<Label 0x00DDA1>
<If 0x14AF doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00DDB1><Set 0x14AF to 01><Goto 0x00DDB5>

<Label 0x00DDB1>
<Goto 0x00E432>

<Label 0x00DDB5>
<Call 0x000DB7> Peeping in from the arched entranceway, Kid looks
astonished. "Wow, look at this! I heard about these things, they're called atriums."
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 10><Call 0x000ABA><FadeIn 6A, 1E><Delay 0D> A large fountain sits in the center of this beautiful room. Looking across the way, another archway similar to this one leads off into darkness.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Whoa, cold!" Kid exclaims, taking her hand out of the water.
<Waitpad> Coming to her side, I kneel down and peer into the pond. Leaning over the beautiful marble edge, I too feel the chilly water.
<Waitpad><ClearText> From deep beneath the surface, a number of fish start to swim towards us.
<waitpad>"These buggers look expensive..."
<Waitpad> I can't seem to see the bottom of the pond. I wonder how deep it is...
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00DFA3><Goto 0x03812D>

<Label 0x00DFA3>
 The fish are a little restless, splashing here and there.
<waitpad> Suddenly, Kid tugs at my arm, jerking my hand out of the water. Before I can ask why, one of the fish leaps out, snapping at me.
<PlaySound 33><Waitpad> We scramble to our feet and take a few steps back from the fountain.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Many other fish soon follow, jumping out of the water, snapping at us. <PlaySound 33>A few land outside of the pond. I kick one of them into a corner. Watching it violently squirm around, it appears to be a piranha.
<Waitpad><ClearText> More and more of them emerge from the apparently
bottomless depth.
<Waitpad> Having gotten a fresh scent of game, the piranhas start to splash around more viciously now, getting water everywhere.
<waitpad> I wonder how many of these things could be in there... It looks like there are more and more of them emerging every second.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 2D><Delay 0F> Suddenly, a dark red liquid starts to erupt from the fountain! Kid leaps back at once. I'm shocked as well, staring dumbfoundedly at the erupting fountain...
<Waitpad><ClearText> The gushing red liquid shoots higher and higher! The water level in the pond rapidly rises, taking on a disgusting red hue!
<Waitpad> Before long, the water level has started to overflow onto the floor! A bead of sweat rolls down my brow as I realize that the room is about to fill with water!
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySound 09> We might be able to make it to a safe distance before the piranhas reach us. Quick, what do we do!?
<PlaySong 05><27, 00><Goto 0x00E356 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x00E68D> *Make a run for the far exit! 
<Choice 0x00E4FE> *Head back to the staircase! 
<Choice 0x00E818> *Take care of these suckers!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00E356>
<ClearText><PlaySound 0D><ClearText> There's not enough time to think! Already the water's risen to my ankles, and piranhas have started to come at me!
<waitpad> Kicking and splashing, I ward them off for the time being.
<waitpad> However, suddenly a terrible pain runs into my left ankle!
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpad> I lift my foot up, tearing off the freakish thing and smashing it with the heel of my boot!
<PlaySound 07><Waitpad> However, looking up, I see three more coming my way!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 08 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00E3F3><Set 0x1514 to 05>

<Label 0x00E3F3>
 What do we do now!?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x00E356 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x00E68D> *Make a run for the far exit! 
<Choice 0x00E4FE> *Head back! 
<Choice 0x00E818> *Get these suckers!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00E432>
<ClearText><27, 05>"Are you serious? There's no way in hell I'm goin' back there to be eaten alive!"
<Waitpad>"Yeah, losing a leg or two wouldn't do a thing for your girlish figure."
<Waitpad> Having stopped before the atrium, we once again come to the ominous Mouth of Truth...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x041055>

<Label 0x00E4FE>
<ClearText><PlaySound 00>"Come on, we're outnumbered!!"
<waitpad> Splashing through the water, we turn back, heading for the passageway from where we came.
<PlaySound 07><Waitpad> However, a few of them manage to sink their teeth into me before I can get away!
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpad> I kick off the last remaining few as I bolt out of this vile room!
<PlaySound 07><PlaySound 07><Waitpad><cleartext><Subtract 08 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00E594><Set 0x1514 to 05>

<Label 0x00E594>
<FadeOut 70, 1E><Delay 08><ClearBG><ClearText><Delay 0A><Call 0x000DB7><27, 01><Call 0x000C37><27, 05><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 0A>"Phew... what a close call."
<Waitpad>"That rat bastard... Whatever trick he's got up his sleeve, it won't stop us for long. We're comin' for ya, Lynx!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x040A52>

<Label 0x00E68D>
<ClearText>"Quick, the exit over there!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 07> With the water now up to my calves, I find I can't move very fast at all! The dyed water, now sticky like blood, splashes violently as I make for the opposite end of the room!
<Waitpad> Below me, I can feel the sharp stab of those tiny, razor-sharp teeth digging into my legs!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DA0><Subtract 12 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00E7B8> One of them suddenly jumps out of the water, clamping down on my face! Shocked, I frantically try and get it off without tearing into my skin!
<waitpad> However, as I'm doing this, dozens more swarm around me, biting into me from all angles!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 07><Delay 02><PlaySound 07> I try to make a run for it, but unable to see, I bump straight into the fountain, coming down with a huge splash...
<Delay 0A><FadeOut 70, 32><ClearBG> All I see from then on is the bubbling red water, as the small fish devour me...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x00E7B8>
 Wincing in pain, I turn around. Quick, what do I do?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x00E356 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x00E956> *Make a run for the far exit! 
<Choice 0x00E4FE> *Head back through the entrance! 
<Choice 0x00E818> *Start kicking ass and taking names!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00E818>
<ClearText>"Let's get these things!!" I shout.
<Waitpad> Kid looks at me like I'm crazy. "This ain't no joke, Serge! We're gonna get eaten alive here unless you do something quick!"
<waitpad> She's right, attacking these things head on is too difficult! They're far too fast to catch!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 07><Subtract 12 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x00E8C9><Set 0x1515 to 00> A look of scorn fills Kid's eyes.
<Delay 0A>"Get over here, ya runts!!"
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x00E8C9>
<Call 0x000DA0><ClearText> Dammit, they're biting me! Help!
<Waitpad><Subtract 08 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00E8FE><Set 0x1514 to 05>

<Label 0x00E8FE>
<PlaySound 07> These things are fast! What do I do!?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x00E356 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x00E956> *Make a run for the far exit! 
<Choice 0x00E4FE> *Head back to the entranceway! 
<Choice 0x00E818> *Grab my knife and start making some sushi!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00E956>
<ClearText><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00E977>"C'mon, we've gotta get outta here! NOW!!"
<waitpad><Goto 0x00E98E>

<Label 0x00E977>
 Dammit... it's hopeless!
<waitpad><goto 0x00E98E>

<Label 0x00E98E>
 Setting my sights on the far exit, I start frantically splashing through the murky water.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 07><PlaySound 07><Delay 08> With the water level now risen up above my calves, I find I can't move very fast. The room has taken on a nasty smell, too -- an awful mixture of blood, fish, and saltwater.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DA0><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00EA48>"Aaahhhh...!"
<waitpad> Two fish have simultaneously bitten into my left thigh and right ankle! Hacking away at the two, I rid myself of their visceral grip and continue to make a run for it!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x00EA71>

<Label 0x00EA48>
 From behind me, Magil's arrows of light dart into the water, disintegrating the lightning-fast fish!
<Waitpad>


<Label 0x00EA71>
<ClearText><Subtract 1C from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x00EB03> Oh, no! Just now I slip on a fish, sending me splashing into the water!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 07><Delay 02><PlaySound 07> The next moment, from all around me I start to feel sharp stabbing pains as a dozen fish swarm at me... and then a dozen more... and then...
<Waitpad>"Aaaaahhhhhh!!!"
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 3C><Delay 0F><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x00EB03>
 However, it's still a ways to the exit. What do I do!?
<Set 0x1517 to 01><Goto 0x00E356 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x00E956> *Try and head for the far exit anyway! 
<Choice 0x00E4FE> *Head back to where we came! 
<Choice 0x00E818> *Skin these guppies!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00EB5B>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00EB70><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00EB78>

<Label 0x00EB70>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00EB78>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A><If 0x14C6 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00EBAE> We proceed through the dark passageway...
<Set 0x14C6 to 00><Goto 0x00EBE7>

<Label 0x00EBAE>
<If 0x14C7 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00EBC8> We retrace our steps through the passageway.
<Set 0x14C7 to 00><Goto 0x00EBE7>

<Label 0x00EBC8>
 The passageway makes a sharp turn to the right, before stretching on through this subterranean maze...


<Label 0x00EBE7>
<Waitpad> Before long, we're greeted with a beautifully ornate set of doors on the right. <Call 0x0039E7><If 0x14C3 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00EC3F>Strange... there's a distinct smell
of flowers coming from here.
<Goto 0x00EC6E>

<Label 0x00EC3F>
<If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00EC5E>This is the room Kid saw something
strange in.
<Goto 0x00EC6E>

<Label 0x00EC5E>
These are the quarters of Riddel, 
Lynx's adopted daughter.


<Label 0x00EC6E>
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x00EC98> *Continue on through the passageway. 
<Choice 0x028809> *Enter the room. 
<Choice 0x00EEA9> *Head back to the staircase.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00EC98>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00ECAD><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00ECB5>

<Label 0x00ECAD>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00ECB5>
<If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00ECD9><If 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00ECD9><If 0x14E2 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00ECD9><If 0x14E3 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00ECD9><Goto 0x033E94>

<Label 0x00ECD9>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> After a little while, the dark passageway ends at a polished, robust set of doors.
<Waitpad><27, 05><Call 0x0039E7><If 0x14B4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00ED83> Kid crinkles her nose in disgust. "Somethin's strange about this place... it don't feel right, mate. Prolly just my imagination though, heh..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Standing here in the cold darkness, Kid's hollow laugh does nothing but add to my fear.
<Goto 0x00EDAE>

<Label 0x00ED83>
 Lynx's quarters... Oh man, I can feel Kid's blood boiling from here.


<Label 0x00EDAE>
<delay 0a><Choice 0x01DC19> *Go into the room. 
<Choice 0x00EDC9> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00EDC9>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 0F> Heading back, we travel through the passageway, eager to shake this feeling of dread.
<Waitpad><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00EE13><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00EE1B>

<Label 0x00EE13>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00EE1B>
<PlaySong 0F> After walking a ways, we come to a beautifully decorated set of doors on the left.
<waitpad><Call 0x0039E7><If 0x14C3 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00EE7C><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00EE6C> This is the room Kid found something unsettling in...
<Goto 0x00EE7C>

<Label 0x00EE6C>
 This is Riddel's room.


<Label 0x00EE7C>
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x028809> *Enter the room. 
<Choice 0x00EEA9> *Keep on walking. 
<Choice 0x00EC98> *Head back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00EEA9>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00EEBE><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00EEC6>

<Label 0x00EEBE>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00EEC6>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> Continuing on through the passage, eventually we come to a branch.
<Waitpad> We see an upwards staircase on the left, as well as a stone archway directly ahead.
<Delay 0a><Set 0x14C7 to 01><Choice 0x00EF61> *Take the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00DD90> *Enter the archway. 
<Choice 0x00EB5B> *Head back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00EF61>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><ClearBG><PlaySong 0F><ClearText><Call 0x000AEE><FadeIn 70, 0A> I follow Kid up the narrow set of stairs, hoping not to lose my balance...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x00EFAF>

<Label 0x00EFAF>
<Cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><Delay 10> We've ascended the staircase. In front of us, paths extend in three directions. To the left lies a dark corridor, and the right path leads out to the terrace. This path also continues on ahead...
<delay 0a><Choice 0x00A657><If 0x14AE doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00F02E> *Take the left path. 
<Goto 0x00F042>

<Label 0x00F02E>
 *Head left, towards the <if 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F02F>cathedral. 
<goto 0x00F042>

<Label 0x00F02F>
ballroom. 
<goto 0x00F042>

<Label 0x00F042>
<Choice 0x00DC89> *Turn right, heading towards the terrace. 
<Choice 0x00A739><If 0x14AA doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00F07B> *Proceed ahead into the dark passageway. 
<Goto 0x00F093>

<Label 0x00F07B>
 *Proceed ahead, towards the study. 


<Label 0x00F093>
<Choice 0x00A593> *Go back down the stairs.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F0A0>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F0B9><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00F0C1>

<Label 0x00F0B9>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00F0C1>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> We come to a branch after a ways. To our right lies a staircase going up, while the start of a dark passageway is directly ahead.
<Delay 08><Set 0x14C6 to 01><Choice 0x00EF61> *Take the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00EB5B> *Head down the passageway. 
<If 0x14B7 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F164><Choice 0x00FA2C> *Turn back towards the atrium.
<Goto 0x00F170>

<Label 0x00F164>
<Choice 0x00E432> *Head back.


<Label 0x00F170>
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F171>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><Delay 08><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F188><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00F190>

<Label 0x00F188>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00F190>
<PlaySong 0F> From here, the passageway stretches to the right and left.
<Waitpad><If 0x14B4 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F1C7> Heading to the right will take us to Lynx's quarters, while turning left will take us back to the ascending staircase.
<Goto 0x00F1E0>

<Label 0x00F1C7>
 Heading right will take us further into darkness, while turning left will take us back to the staircase.


<Label 0x00F1E0>
<delay 0a><choice 0x00EC98><If 0x14B4 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F21E> *Let's head right, towards Lynx's quarters. 
<Goto 0x00F22A>

<Label 0x00F21E>
 *Let's head to the right. 


<Label 0x00F22A>
<Choice 0x00EEA9><If 0x14AF doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F24F> *Let's head left, towards the atrium.
<Goto 0x00F265>

<Label 0x00F24F>
 *Let's head left, back to the staircase.


<Label 0x00F265>
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F266>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F27F><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00F287>

<Label 0x00F27F>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00F287>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F2DB> Following through the dark passageway, we come to a
staircase leading down...
<delay 0a><Choice 0x03571C> *Take the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00F943> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F2DB>
 Having crossed through the atrium, eventually we come to a split in the path. We can either go left or right from here.
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x00F6DC><If 0x14B9 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00F334> *Head down the left path. 
<Goto 0x00F34A>

<Label 0x00F334>
 *Head down the left path, towards the catacombs. 


<Label 0x00F34A>
<Choice 0x00F389><If 0x14B8 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00F367> *Take the right path. 
<Goto 0x00F37C>

<Label 0x00F367>
 *Take the right path, heading to the staircase. 


<Label 0x00F37C>
<Choice 0x00F943> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F389>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F39E><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00F3A6>

<Label 0x00F39E>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00F3A6>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> After a little ways down the passageway, we come to a descending staircase...
<Delay 08><Set 0x14B8 to 01><Choice 0x00F3F8> *Take the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00F4C8> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F3F8>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><ClearBG><Call 0x000C87><FadeIn 70, 0A> We slowly walk down the stairs, taking us deep below ground. It's as though we're descending further and further into an endless abyss...
<Waitpad><cleartext><delay 05><FadeOut 70, 3A><Delay 18> Once we reach the bottom, we come to another split. We can go left or right, but both paths look equally dismal.
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x00FA96><If 0x14C4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00F474> *Let's try the right path. 
<Goto 0x00F488>

<Label 0x00F474>
 *Let's head down the right path, towards the kitchen. 


<Label 0x00F488>
<Choice 0x00FB06><If 0x14C5 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00F4A5> *I think we should try the left path. 
<Goto 0x00F4BB>

<Label 0x00F4A5>
 *Let's head left, towards the Armory. 


<Label 0x00F4BB>
<Choice 0x00FEB8> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F4C8>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><ClearBG><If 0x14BC doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00F4EA><Goto 0x00F4EE>

<Label 0x00F4EA>
<Set 0x14BC to 00>

<Label 0x00F4EE>
<Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> Continuing on through the passage, eventually we come to a branch.
<Waitpad><Cleartext> If we turn left, we'll be taken back to the atrium. <If 0x14B9 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F55F>Heading straight through will take us to the catacombs.
<Goto 0x00F581>

<Label 0x00F55F>
Heading straight through will lead us into darkness...


<Label 0x00F581>
<delay 0a><choice 0x00F943> *Turn left, towards the atrium. 
<Choice 0x00F6DC><If 0x14B9 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00F5BA> *Proceed on ahead. 
<Goto 0x00F5CD>

<Label 0x00F5BA>
 *Proceed on ahead, towards the catacombs. 


<Label 0x00F5CD>
<Choice 0x00F389> *Head back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F5DA>
<ClearText><If 0x14BF doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00F69B>"Okay, the goblin's key should open this door," Kid says, putting the key into the lock.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 01> With a click, the door unlocks. The door opens with a deep creak...
<Call 0x0039CF><Waitpad><cleartext><delay 10> Damp air creeps up from below. Peering into the dark, decrepit place, I wonder how I ever got talked into coming to a place like this...
<Waitpad><Set 0x14BF to 01><Set 0x14CC to 00><Goto 0x03E6F8>

<Label 0x00F697>
<Goto 0x00F6BF>

<Label 0x00F69B>
 No matter how many times I return here, I don't think I'll ever get any more used to this place...


<Label 0x00F6BF>
<delay 0a><choice 0x00F839> *Turn back. 
<Choice 0x03E6F8> *Go in.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F6DC>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F6F1><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00F6F9>

<Label 0x00F6F1>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00F6F9>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> After a bit of walking, we come to an old-looking door with a brass handle.
<Waitpad><Call 0x0039C2><If 0x14BA doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F73E><Goto 0x00F5DA>

<Label 0x00F73E>
"Dammit, another locked door."
<Waitpad>"I don't get it, there's no smell of gold or nothin'."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"This leads to Viper Manor's catacombs," says Magil hesitantly.
<Waitpad> ...He's right. Standing here in silence, I realize there's a faint scent of death on the air. And then, putting my ear to the door, I start to hear deep, tortured moans from far beyond...
<waitpad><Cleartext> I jump back, looking at the door. "Umm.... let's try somewhere else."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Set 0x14B9 to 01><Goto 0x00F839>

<Label 0x00F839>
<FadeOut 70, 00><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F84E><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00F856>

<Label 0x00F84E>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00F856>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> Heading away from the catacombs, we eventually come to a split. Turning right heads back to the atrium, while 
<If 0x14B8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F8CD>proceeding straight through will take us to a downward staircase.
<Goto 0x00F8EF>

<Label 0x00F8CD>
ahead of us, I can see nothing but a dark, stone corridor, leading off into darkness...


<Label 0x00F8EF>
<delay 0a><choice 0x00F943> *Turn right. 
<Choice 0x00F389><If 0x14B8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F92B> *Keep on going towards the staircase. 
<Goto 0x00F936>

<Label 0x00F92B>
 *Keep on going forward. 


<Label 0x00F936>
<Choice 0x00F6DC> *Turn around.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00F943>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F958><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00F960>

<Label 0x00F958>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00F960>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> After heading down the dark, dingy passageway for a while, eventually I start to smell the pungent odor of <if 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F961>dead flesh...
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00F99F>

<label 0x00F961>
dead fish...
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00F99F>

<Label 0x00F99F>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 10><Call 0x000ABA><FadeIn 6A, 1E> We return to the atrium.
<Waitpad><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00F9E1> From across the way, we can see another archway that will take us to an upwards staircase.
<Goto 0x00F9F5>

<Label 0x00F9E1>
 Ahead of us, we see another archway which will take us back to an upwards staircase, and eventually Lynx's and Riddel's quarters.


<Label 0x00F9F5>
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x00F0A0> *Continue on through the room. 
<Choice 0x00F266> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00FA2C>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 10><Call 0x000ABA><FadeIn 6A, 0A> We return to the atrium.
<Waitpad> From across the way, we can see another archway leading off into darkness.
<delay 0a><choice 0x00F266> *Go on through the room. 
<Choice 0x00F0A0> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00FA96>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText><ClearBG><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> After a little while, the passage ends at a small door.<delay 05><Call 0x0039C2><delay 07> "Hey, I smell home cookin'..."
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x02787C> *Enter. 
<Choice 0x00FCE9> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00FB06>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> After a little ways, we're presented with a sturdy set of doors.
<Waitpad><Call 0x0039E7> A wooden plaque has been hung above the door frame. Only one word is written on it -- ARMORY.
<Waitpad><If 0x14BA doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00FB7F><Goto 0x00FCCE>

<Label 0x00FB7F>
<If 0x14B9 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00FBC2>"Armory, eh. The key to the catacombs has gotta be in here."
<Goto 0x00FC9C>

<Label 0x00FBC2>
"Armory, huh... I dunno..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> I couldn't agree more -- Kid will probably start spouting off some headstrong nonsense, getting us into some sort of terrible scenario where we'll eventually be surrounded by a dozen guards, at least.
<Waitpad>"I dunno, mate. If we go in there, you'll just get into some sort of whiny panic or somethin'..."
<Waitpad> .........
<waitpad> Incredible, this mutual admiration we have for each other.
<waitpad> We turn around, heading back through the passageway.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x00FDD2>

<Label 0x00FC9C>
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid places her ear on the door. "Not a peep."
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x00FCCE>

<Label 0x00FCCE>
<Choice 0x00FDD2> *Turn back. 
<Choice 0x02C040> *Go in.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00FCE9>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><delay 10><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00FCFE><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00FD06>

<Label 0x00FCFE>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00FD06>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> Before long, we come to an ascending staircase on the left. The passageway also continues on ahead...
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x00FEB8> *Go up the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00FB06><If 0x14C5 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00FDB4> *Go forward. 
<Goto 0x00FDC5>

<Label 0x00FDB4>
 *Go on towards the Armory. 


<Label 0x00FDC5>
<Choice 0x00FA96> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00FDD2>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><If 0x149C doesn't equal 01 goto 0x00FDE7><Set 0x149C to 00><Goto 0x00FDEF>

<Label 0x00FDE7>
<Set 0x149C to 01><Call 0x003F64>

<Label 0x00FDEF>
<PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A> Heading away from the Armory, we come upon an upwards staircase on the right. This passage also continues on ahead...
<delay 0a><choice 0x00FEB8> *Head up the stairs. 
<Choice 0x00FA96><If 0x14C4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x00FE9C> *Proceed on through. 
<Goto 0x00FEAB>

<Label 0x00FE9C>
 *Proceed on towards the kitchen. 


<Label 0x00FEAB>
<Choice 0x00FB06> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x00FEB8>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000AEE><FadeIn 70, 0A> We head up the narrow stairwell with Kid leading the way.
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 08><FadeOut 70, 2A><delay 18> Coming to the top, we're faced with a dimly lit corridor. We head down it, quietly masking our steps...
<Set 0x14BC to 01><Waitpad><Goto 0x00F4C8>

<Label 0x00FF34>
<FadeOut 70, 1E><ClearText><ClearBG><FadeIn 90, 00><27, 00><Delay 0F> We start down the long, dark path in front of us.
<Waitpad><volume ff, 00><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 14> The air down here carries a thick stench of death. Somewhere, further down this passageway, Lynx's
subterranean hideout awaits.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid's got a strange look on her face. I can't imagine what must be going through her head right now. Magil, on the other hand... I can never read him. But still, we usually talk a little, lightening things up... but right now, nobody's making a sound.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I try to offer some conversation, hoping to avoid the increasing tension.
<Playsong 00><volume 00, ff><delay 0a><Choice 0x0100CD> *"So, what really is this Frozen Flame thing?"
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x010543> *"Why are we after the Frozen Flame?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0100CD>
<Set 0x14CD to 01> <delay 10>...No response.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Just as I start to think no one is going to answer, Magil starts to speak, his low voice echoing throughout the stone corridor.
<waitpad>"It was said to be a gem which soothes all scars, granting eternal life to its owner...
<waitpad> ...Or so people believed.
<waitpad><ClearText> The Frozen Flame is more than just an object. It's not of this world.
<Waitpad> It descended from the heavens long ago, part of a huge meteorite.
<waitpad><cleartext> Once, there lived a people who sought to harness its power, hoping to tap into their yet unknown potential. And so, it became a treasure of great importance and dreams.
<waitpad> However, whether a gift which bestows power is actually a blessing or a curse, is another question altogether.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Since the birth of humanity, at least one entire race has fallen because of it. These people once built a great thriving metropolis with its power, but now, all knowledge of this era has been completely lost within the sands of time."
<Waitpad> A faint feeling of distress comes across Magil's voice, throughout his speech.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"But then, how do you know about all this?" I ask.
<Waitpad> Again, no answer.
<Waitpad> Keeping silent, I continue walking. Our footsteps once again become the only sound filling this dark path...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Well, whether any of that's true or not, it'll all lead us to the same place. Say yer prayers, Lynx! We're comin for ya! That's all I know, and that's plenty!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> The Frozen Flame... what in the world could Lynx see in that mysterious rock...?
<Waitpad><If 0x14CE doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0104D7> Remembering the painting in the study, the one with the black gem which had a burning glow inside it... could that have been the Frozen Flame?
<Waitpad> If that's the case, in the painting, it seemed like all the world was at its mercy, flowing and melting into it...
<waitpad> I start to wonder if this is such a good idea, coming here, toying with this ancient artifact...
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x0104D7>
<cleartext> Flooded with thoughts, I pause for a moment to take a deep breath and calm myself.
<waitpad> Continuing on a moment later, I feel as though I'm a bit more at peace...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Add 0E to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01053F><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x01053F>
<Goto 0x010916>

<Label 0x010543>
 My question is met with nothing but a cold gaze from Kid.
<Waitpad><cleartext> There's no response from her. Actually, now that I think about it, I haven't heard Kid talk much about anything in her past, ever. But then, just as I think I'm not going to be answered, she starts to speak...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I made a promise with my big sis... to get the Frozen Flame, and bury it for her..."
<Waitpad>"Bury it for her? Where?"
<Waitpad>"At her old friend's grave..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid looks down at her feet, continuing. "I was still little at the time, so I can't remember much of it... But there was this friend of hers who she'd grown up with, who died a while back. She said she wanted him to be able to rest with the Frozen Flame...
<waitpad> I don't know what she meant by that, but after what happened at the temple, I vowed to get my revenge, and honor what she wanted."
<Waitpad><ClearText> I stay silent, not knowing what kind of reply to offer.
<Waitpad><Delay 0F>"I shoulda talked more about it before, before I got you involved in everything, I guess," she says after a while.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It's bad, Serge..."
<Waitpad> ......
<waitpad><cleartext> With nothing but the sound of our footsteps echoing around us, we continue on, deeper and deeper into the passageway.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Add 08 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0108FC><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x0108FC>
<Goto 0x010916>

<Label 0x010900>
<24, FF, 00><24, 3F, 1E><Delay 08><24, 73, 00><Delay 02><24, F3, 00><24, BF, 1E><Delay 05><Return>

<Label 0x010916>
<ClearText><27, 05><PlaySong 00><delay 10> Suddenly, Magil comes to a stop. "Do not move."
<Waitpad>"Huh...?"
<waitpad> Kid and I look around suspiciously. Around us, bones are scattered in all directions. Many of them have been cut cleanly in half.
<waitpad> Looking around more, amidst the dim light I start to see that the walls have been splattered with blood.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Then, suddenly, a trace of light catches my eye from behind.
<waitpad> There's a bolt of electricity approaching us, sparkling like a lit fuse on the ground.
<waitpad> Coming within a few feet of us, the spark splits off into two, forming a circle around us. Once the circle is complete, an odd glow starts to shine at our feet! Then, from where the sparks had traced, light shoots upwards, forming a wall of light all around us!
<Waitpad><ClearBG><ClearText><PlaySound 1D><Call 0x000AD9><FadeIn 70, 08><24, 17, 0A><24, 0A, 04><Delay 02><24, 8A, 14><24, 97, 14><Delay 0F>"It's a Devil Circle!"
<waitpad> We try to move, but we find ourselves caught within the rays of light!
<Waitpad><24, 7F, 14><Delay 05><ClearText><FadeOut F0, 14><Delay 08><ClearBG><ClearText><Delay 08><PlaySong 17><Call 0x000B2B><Call 0x000B31><Delay 0F><24, 7F, 14><FadeIn 30, 1E><Delay 0A><24, FF, 14><FadeIn 50, 1E><Delay 0A><Call 0x010900><Delay 0A><Call 0x010900><Delay 14>
<ClearText><Call 0x010900><Delay 14> With the scalding, noisy winds whirling all around us, all I see are rays of shimmering light in every direction I look!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x010900><24, 3A, 1E>"Wh, what do I do? I can't see anything in all this light!"
<waitpad> Magil grabs me by the shoulder and returns me to the center of the circle. Thankfully, he seems to be able to see just fine; his mask is probably shielding his eyes from the radiance.
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, BA, 0A><Call 0x010900><Delay 08><24, 37, 1E>"There is always a way out of a Devil Circle -- we must find the gaps to walk through!"
<Waitpad>"If you say so...!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 0a> Suddenly, Kid's elbow grazes one of the walls!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0><24, 30, 00><ClearText><Delay 08> Sparks scatter in all directions! She instantly snaps her arm back, wincing in pain!
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 05><Delay 0A><Set 0x151A to 04><Goto 0x010C01>

<Label 0x010C01>
<Subtract 01 from 0x151A><If 0x151A doesn't equal 00 goto 0x010C15><Goto 0x0110EE><Goto 0x010C1E>

<Label 0x010C15>
<ClearText><PlaySound 1A><24, 30, 1E><24, B0, 00>

<Label 0x010C1E>
<cleartext> Unable to see any gaps whatsoever, I hesitantly start to make my way towards the blinding wall of light...
<waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x0081D3><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x010CAB><Choice 0x0110C3> *Two steps to the left. 
<Choice 0x0110A8> *Take three steps to the left. 
<Choice 0x010FF9> *Take two steps to the right. 
<Choice 0x010FCE> *Take three steps to the right. 
<Goto 0x010CE7>

<Label 0x010CAB>
<Choice 0x010FCE> *Take three steps to the right. 
<Choice 0x010FF9> *Take two steps to the right. 
<Choice 0x0110A8> *Take three steps to the left. 
<Choice 0x0110C3> *Take two steps to the left. 
<Goto 0x010CE7>

<Label 0x010CE7>
<Choice 0x011024> *Try to forcefully break through!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x010CFE>
<If 0x1517 doesn't equal 2C goto 0x010D8C><Call 0x000DA0><Call 0x000DA0><24, 30, 00>"Dammit!"
<Call 0x000DA0><24, 30, 00><Waitpad> Bolts of light strike crash into me from all directions! Without anywhere to go, I bump off wall after wall, screaming out in pain!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0><24, 30, 00>"AAAHH!!"
<Call 0x000DA0><24, 30, 00><Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 37 from 0x1514><Goto 0x010DE3>

<Label 0x010D8C>
<Call 0x000DA0><Call 0x000DA0><24, 30, 00> I'm excruciatingly bounced off of the shimmering wall!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 14 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x010DDF><Set 0x1515 to 01>

<Label 0x010DDF>
<Subtract 23 from 0x1514>

<Label 0x010DE3>
<If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x010E55><24, BF, 00><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><Call 0x000AD9><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><FadeIn F0, 00> A single angel appears out of the sea of shining light, gazing down upon me sadly...
<Waitpad>"Serge...!!"
<Waitpad><FadeOut F0, 3C><Delay 12><ClearText><ClearBG><FadeIn F0, 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x010E55>
<24, 3F, 1E><Delay 08><24, 7F, 04><Delay 02><24, FF, 04><24, BF, 28><Delay 14> I manage to pass through the wall, despite my botched attempt!
<Waitpad><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 2C goto 0x010EAB><Set 0x1517 to 00>"I made it... I'm not dead!"
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x010EAB>
<If 0x151A doesn't equal 01 goto 0x010EC3><ClearText><24, BF, 00><24, 7F, 0A><24, FF, 14><Delay 08><Goto 0x010EEF>

<Label 0x010EC3>
<cleartext> However, there's yet another layer of swirling light just in front of us!
<24, 35, 1E><waitpad>

<Label 0x010EEF>
<cleartext><Goto 0x010C01>

<Label 0x010EF4>
<Delay 08>"There! Come on, now!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> From where we stand, a small gap in the wall can be seen all of a sudden. Holding my breath, I leap into it with my arms shielding my face!
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 3F, 1E><Delay 08><24, 7F, 04><Delay 02><24, FF, 04><24, BF, 1E><If 0x151A doesn't equal 01 goto 0x010F7F><ClearText><24, B0, 00><24, 7F, 14><Delay 05><24, FF, 14><Delay 08><Goto 0x010FCD>

<Label 0x010F7F>
<delay 08> All right! We made it through!!
<Waitpad> However, I open my eyes only to see even more of these glimmering walls swirling before us!
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 35, 1E><Delay 0A>

<Label 0x010FCD>
<Return>

<Label 0x010FCE>
<ClearText>"Come on, to the right a little...!"
<Waitpad><If 0x151A doesn't equal 03 goto 0x010FF5><Call 0x010EF4><Goto 0x010C01>

<Label 0x010FF5>
<Goto 0x010CFE>

<Label 0x010FF9>
<ClearText>"To the right, slowly...!"
<Waitpad><If 0x151A doesn't equal 01 goto 0x011020><Call 0x010EF4><Goto 0x0110EE>

<Label 0x011020>
<Goto 0x010CFE>

<Label 0x011024>
<ClearText>"Come on, we might be able to break through!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Add 14 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0110A0><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x0110A0>
<Set 0x1517 to 2C><Goto 0x010CFE>

<Label 0x0110A8>
<ClearText>"To the left, slowly...!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x010CFE>

<Label 0x0110C3>
<ClearText>"We've got to go to the left a little...!"
<Waitpad><If 0x151A doesn't equal 02 goto 0x0110EA><Call 0x010EF4><Goto 0x010C01>

<Label 0x0110EA>
<Goto 0x010CFE>

<Label 0x0110EE>
<ClearText><FadeOut 70, 14><24, BA, 00><Call 0x000DB7><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000C37><ClearText><27, 05><FadeIn 70, 5A><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 1E> I scurry away from the bloodcurdling thing as fast as I can. Looking back, I see it vanish in a puff of smoke, just as quickly as it arrived! The wind instantly dies down as well, and all the dust and grime that was blowing around falls back to the floor in a flash. Everything has returned to a quiet stillness. Too quiet.
<Waitpad><cleartext><fadeout 70, 50> And so, heading down the hallway further and further, eventually...
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut F0, 3C><ClearBG><Call 0x000CBA><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 14><PlaySound 0A><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 0F>"At last..."
<waitpad> Kid steps toward the mighty set of doors, letting out a sigh of relief.
<Waitpad>"Beyond this door... the Frozen Flame..."
<Waitpad> From behind his mask, Magil's eyes let loose a cool radiance.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Okay... let's go!" Kid says eagerly, grasping the handle.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 27><Call 0x0039F4><If 0x14A1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x011274><Goto 0x03C70A>

<Label 0x011274>
<delay 28>"Whoa..."
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 13><Call 0x000A9D><04, FF, 00><FadeIn EE, 64><Delay 40> This cavern sprawls out to great lengths before our eyes. A forgotten world, hidden deep below ground...
<Waitpad> And, with a scarlet radiance, a single small gem shimmers in the darkness.
<waitpad><ClearText> The Frozen Flame!
<Waitpad>"Finally, we're here!"
<Waitpad> The jewel shimmers warmly, almost as if it's responding to Kid's voice...
<24, 15, 0A><Delay 03><24, 95, 1E><Delay 0A><24, 19, 1E><Delay 0D><24, 99, 32><Delay 0F><ClearText> Taking a few steps into the moist cavern, Magil whispers, "Remarkable... intact ruins of the lost Magical Kingdom."
<waitpad> Just as I start to ask Magil what he means, a taunting laugh can be heard from high above us.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000AAE><Delay 08>"Lynx!!"
<Waitpad> Kid immediately pulls out her knife and hurls it through the air with all her might!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 14><Delay 0A><PlaySound 1D><Delay 0F> As it approaches Lynx, he easily swats it out of the way, almost too quickly for me to see!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Always the same... such a savage little girl. Can't you give a gentleman an honest greeting?"
<Waitpad>"You bastard!!" Kid interrupts.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"And what have we here... the notorious shadow walker. I wouldn't be trying anything like last time, if I were you."
<Waitpad> Beside me, I see Magil come to a stop.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><Delay 0D><Call 0x000D3C><FadeIn 6A, 3C><Delay 32> Lord Lynx...
<waitpad> Viper Manor's deadly owner...
<Waitpad> The very same man who murdered Kid's sister, deceived Riddel's father, and eradicated the Acacia Dragoons...
<Waitpad>"Welcome back, Kid. I see you have successfully taken the bait, gluttonous as ever."
<Waitpad>"What...!?" Kid says hesitantly, taking a step back.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Lynx stares down at her with those frighteningly piercing eyes of his.
<Waitpad>"You see, Kid, I brought you here because of the rock you carry."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Which rock?"
<Waitpad>"Surely you remember, the one you received from your sister, all those years ago... the priceless keepsake you carry with you dearly, even now...
<Waitpad> The Chrono Trigger!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 50><Delay 17><ClearBG><Call 0x000A9D><FadeIn 6E, 50><Delay 19>"How'd ya know about that...?"
<waitpad> Kid's gaze returns to a scowl.
<Waitpad>"No matter... we're here for the Frozen Flame! Yer finished, ya bastard!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah yes, toss your little threats around. But remember, no matter how many times you think you have won, I have generously demonstrated how gravely you are mistaken."
<Waitpad> And with that, Lynx unsheathes a beautiful golden sabre.
<waitpad>"Previously I've overlooked doing away with you, letting you scurry on with your pathetic little life. However, this time, I may not be so generous..."
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000DB7> Kid takes another step back, glaring at Lynx as he approaches.
<Waitpad>"Lynx!! Ya murderer, I'll never forgive you for Lucca... This ends here and now!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 0A><Delay 17><PlaySong 0E> And so, Kid leaps into the air in a fit of rage, aiming a kick between Lynx's eyes!
<Waitpad> However, just as she reaches him, he swiftly dodges!
<PlaySound 14><waitpad> Kid stands there, wondering how she could have missed. Beside her, Lynx laughs, taunting her!
<Waitpad> Jumping up once again, Kid lets loose a fierce kick!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 13> Skimming the tip of his nose, her kick cuts through nothing but air!
<Waitpad><ClearText> In a parry attack, Lynx sends his razor-sharp golden sabre through the air!
<PlaySound 12><Waitpad> But Kid's already leapt back. The two face each other, only a few feet apart.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"If only you had been a bit faster, Kid," Lynx says, smiling.
<Waitpad> All of a sudden, a line of red streaks across Kid's face!
<Waitpad>"Kid...!?"
<Waitpad> Wiping off the blood, Kid angrily rushes Lynx in a flash through the air!
<PlaySound 14><PlaySound 14><Waitpad>
<ClearText> Effortlessly dodging, Lynx drives the sword into her back as soon as she lands!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad> Kid bends back in alarming pain!
<Waitpad> Somehow staying on her feet, she stumbles back and readies herself to charge again!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Stupid little brat...!!"
<waitpad> Lynx lands an elbow onto Kid's shoulder, knocking her clear down to the ground!
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpad> I feel her pain from the pit of my stomach, as I start to see blood trickling from her lips...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What's wrong, little girl!?"
<waitpad> Once again, Kid tries to lash out at Lynx, but he easily kicks her, sending her back onto a pile of rubble!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><PlaySound 02><PlaySound 02> Lynx then looks upward, focusing his concentration on the ceiling. As I look up, I see a number of rocks have come dislodged from the cavern, tumbling down onto her!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid...!!"
<waitpad> I call out as I start to rush over to her! However, just as soon as I start to, I see Magil's already there. He's streaked across the shadows, putting himself between Lynx and Kid!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Saying nothing, Lynx shoots a thread of white light out of his fingertips!
<Waitpad> The threadlike substance entangles Magil, binding his feet together. He hits the ground with a thud!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><PlaySound 10><24, 35, 14><Delay 08><24, 7F, 08><Delay 01><24, FF, 08><Delay 03><24, B5, 1E><PlaySound 00><Delay 0A> In a dazzling radiance, a countless number of threads fly out from Lynx's fingertips! They immobilize Magil completely, leaving only his head visible!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"How does that feel, shadow walker? Have you felt my web start to drain your life energy yet?" Lynx says, smiling ominously.
<Waitpad>"Grrrrr...!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid... Magil... What am I going to do!?
<Delay 08><Set 0x14D2 to 02><Goto 0x011E0F after 0x00C8ms><Choice 0x012324> *Stand up to Lynx! 
<Choice 0x01219C> *Try to free Magil! 
<Choice 0x011FBE> *Help Kid!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x011E0F>
 Dumbfounded, I completely blow my opportunity!
<waitpad> Finished with Magil, Lynx again turns his attention to Kid!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Really, Kid. Some time ago, you were actually something, but where has all your power all gone now? Where has that happy little girl gone?"
<Waitpad> Lynx smiles coldly at Kid, collapsed at his feet...
<Waitpad>"Well, do you feel like handing over The Chrono Trigger yet? Surely you know by now it doesn't pay to be stubborn with me.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Since I am a gentleman, stealing from an innocent girl just won't do. Perhaps your companion, the filthy looking one, maybe he knows where it is? Will he require my persuasion as well?"
<waitpad> Lynx starts to walk over towards me, trampling over Kid's head.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D83><Delay 08> Kid's dazed voice can be heard faintly...
<Delay 0A>"Lynx... Lucca's treasure... you..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 01 from 0x14D2><If 0x14D2 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x011F69><Goto 0x01245A>

<Label 0x011F69>
 Gulp... what am I going to do!?
<Delay 08><Goto 0x01245A after 0x00C8ms><Choice 0x012324> *Stand up to Lynx! 
<Choice 0x01219C> *Try to free Magil! 
<Choice 0x011FBE> *Go to Kid's side!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x011FBE>
"Kid...!!"
<waitpad><cleartext> She looks over towards me. With blood trickling from her mouth, she only moves a little.
<Waitpad>"Kid... are you all right?"
<waitpad> She lies there motionless, wincing painfully.
<Waitpad>"...Serge..."
<Waitpad>"It's okay, Kid! I'm here for you!"
<Waitpad><Add 0C to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x012093><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x012093>
<Cleartext>"How kind... however, I think you should be more concerned with your own well being, young man!"
<waitpad> An icy chill runs down my spine as I hear the evil voice behind me. I stand up and turn around...
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><Delay 08><Call 0x000D3C><FadeIn 6A, 3C><Delay 1E>"So you, whoever you are. Opposing me is quite useless, as you obviously have seen."
<Waitpad> And in a flash, Lynx grabs me by the neck!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 14><Delay 08><Goto 0x012761>

<Label 0x01219C>
 I hurry over to Magil!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Magil, are you okay!?"
<Waitpad>"Don't worry about me...!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000D89>"Dammit...!!"
<waitpad> Behind me, Kid moans in pain!
<Waitpad>"Go, Serge! You're forgetting what's important...!"
<Waitpad> Magil's eyes look straight over my shoulders.
<Waitpad>"Don't repeat the same mistake I did! Protect... Kid..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Wiping the sweat and tears off my face, I quickly rise to my feet!
<Waitpad><Add 0F to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0122E7><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x0122E7>
<Subtract 01 from 0x14D2><If 0x14D2 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0122F7><Goto 0x01245A>

<Label 0x0122F7>
<Goto 0x011E0F after 0x00C8ms><Choice 0x012324> *Stand up against Lynx! 
<Choice 0x011FBE> *Go to Kid's side!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x012324>
 I look over to Lynx, and fearlessly start running towards him!
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, Lynx instantly sees me and takes a quick swing!
<PlaySound 14><Waitpad> Immediately dodging, the sword barely misses my shoulder!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Shit...!!"
<Waitpad> Just like Kid, he's unknowingly managed to slice into me!
<Waitpad><Subtract 12 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x012420><ClearText> Tumbling down onto the rubble, I look up to see a huge boulder ready to fall onto me!
<waitpad> I roll out of the way onto my stomach, but then I realize Lynx is now just above me!
<waitpad> I try to scramble to my feet, but it's only when I'm on my knees do I feel his cold blade enter my back and exit through my sternum. I start to cough blood as I grip the blade in vain...
<Waitpad><FadeOut F0, 1E><Delay 08><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x012420>
"Young man, spare yourself, and give up now!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><Delay 08><Call 0x000D3C><FadeIn 6E, 3C><Delay 1E><Call 0x012761>

<Label 0x01245A>
<ClearText><If 0x14D4 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x012472><FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000A9D><FadeIn 6E, 3C><Delay 14>

<Label 0x012472>
 Lynx brings his sword down in a flash!
<Waitpad><PlaySong 00><PlaySound 11><Call 0x000DA0><24, 7F, 00><04, FF, 01><Delay 02><24, FF, 0A><Delay 08><PlaySound 0D> Her back arching, Kid screams painfully before coughing up blood!
<Delay 0A>"Kid...!?"
<Waitpad><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 03><Volume 40, C8><Delay 4B> Kid's face slowly turns to me... Those huge, pearly eyes stare straight into my soul.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Something is being said from her barely trembling lips. Those lovely small pink lips, now stained red...
<Waitpad> And there, from her back pocket, she takes something out.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"......!!"
<Waitpad><If 0x14D4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0126F2> Kid's thin hand falls to the ground, and her gripped fingers open. A small dark jewel falls out.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DB7> Lynx's eyes light up.
<waitpad>"The Chrono Trigger!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 15><24, 1F, 08><Delay 03><24, 9F, 14><Delay 0A> Then, suddenly, a dark area starts to form around the gem. Its swirling darkness grows bigger and bigger!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D80><PlaySound 0A><24, 1F, 14><Delay 08><24, 7F, 08><Delay 02><24, FF, 0A><Delay 03><24, 9F, 14><Delay 0A><PlaySound 0A> The darkness consumes everything around me...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x012708>

<Label 0x0126F2>
<PlaySound 0A><24, 1F, 14><Delay 08><24, 7F, 08><Delay 02><24, FF, 0A><Delay 03><24, 9F, 14><Delay 0A>

<Label 0x012708>
<PlaySound 1A><24, 7F, 3C><Delay 14><24, FF, 08><FadeOut F0, 0A><Delay 0A><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 1E><Indent 07x, 03y>"Kid...!!"
<Delay 19><FadeOut 90, 50><Delay 14><ClearText><Delay 2D><Call 0x000DB7><Volume 20, 00><Delay 14><PlaySound 00><Volume 00, FF><Set 0x14CF to 01><Set 0x14D0 to 01><Set 0x14D1 to 01><Set 0x14D3 to 01><PlaySong 04><Delay 3A><Set 0x1493 to 01><Goto 0x00073E>

<Label 0x012761>
<ClearText> He strangles me with his long, disgusting fingers!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><24, 9F, 0A><Delay 05><24, 10, 0A><Delay 08>"Urrghh...!!"
<Waitpad> Then, he starts to lift me up by my neck! Struggling for air, I painfully hang there, unable to tear myself free of his powerful grip!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><Call 0x012ADE><ClearText>"Look, Kid. Look at your pathetic little companion suffering. You can make this all stop, if you want."
<Waitpad> With blood dripping from her lips, Kid opens one of her eyes. Painfully gasping and coughing, she lifts her head up to us.
<Waitpad> She still wants to get up, but she's hurt far too badly.
<waitpad>"Serge...!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hand over the Chrono Trigger, Kid. Little do you know, but that rock is actually a tiny, condensed universe. When combined with the Frozen Flame, it gains the power to bend space-time, allowing its owner to reshape history. This all could have never happened, if you merely wish it..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Saying this, Lynx looks towards me, expressionless.
<waitpad>"And what about you, young man? Perhaps you know where the Chrono Trigger is?" he asks, tightening his grip!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad>"...Serge...!!"
<Waitpad><Call 0x012ADE>"What are you going to do, Kid? Can you afford to let this little boy die without helping? How will it feel to have his blood on your hands?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> As Lynx grasps tighter and tighter, I find myself starting to lose it...
<Waitpad> Lynx's face becomes a blur...
<waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 6A, 14><Delay 05><FadeIn 6A, 1E><Delay 0A><FadeOut 70, 19><Delay 0F><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 0F> Suddenly, Kid's voice snaps me back to attention!
<Waitpad>"I'm sorry, Serge...!! Wh, what should I do?"
<delay 0a><choice 0x012B5E> *"Don't give it to him!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x012BB6> *"Do what he wants, Kid!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x012ADE>
<Subtract 0E from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x012B5D><ClearText> I try to speak, but I can't! Lynx's grip is getting tighter and tighter...
<Waitpad><PlaySong 00><PlaySound 1E><PlaySound 1E><Delay 1E> Suddenly. I hear a soft voice. From far away, something is calling my name...
<Waitpad><FadeOut F0, 28><Delay 0A><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x012B5D>
<Return>

<Label 0x012B5E>
<ClearText>"Don't... don't do it...!"
<Waitpad><Add 0C to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x012BB2><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x012BB2>
<Goto 0x012C55>

<Label 0x012BB6>
<ClearText>"Do... it...!"
<Waitpad> I don't want to die. There are still places want to go... things I want to see...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 1E from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x012C51><Set 0x1515 to 01>

<Label 0x012C51>
<Goto 0x012C55>

<Label 0x012C55>
 My consciousness... fading...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x012C88>

<Label 0x012C7E>
<FadeOut 90, 28><ClearText><Delay 0F><FadeIn 90, 00><Return>

<Label 0x012C88>
<FadeOut F0, 50><Delay 19><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Delay 0F><FadeIn 90, 00><If 0x1515 is greater than 29 goto 0x012D36>"Serge... I'm sorry... please forgive me...!!"
<Waitpad> I can hear Kid call out to me, but her voice continues to fade, getting further and further away...
<Waitpad> Kid...
<Delay 1E><FadeOut 90, 3C><Delay 14><Set 0x14D0 to 01><PlaySong 04><Delay 1E><Set 0x14D3 to 01><Set 0x1493 to 01><Goto 0x00073E>

<Label 0x012D36>
"Stop!! The stone... here!"
<Waitpad> Lynx looks over to Kid. His eyes light up as his hands loosen around my neck.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000A9D><FadeIn EC, 3C><Delay 17> Abandoning me, Lynx rushes over to her side.
<PlaySound 02><Waitpad><ClearText>"Here it is, Lynx..."
<waitpad> Kid reaches into her pocket. Lynx draws closer.
<waitpad> Despite being drained of nearly all strength, Kid manages to whip her knife out, fiercely slashing at Lynx!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><PlaySound 0D> Screaming viciously, Lynx falls back, cradling his mangled face! Blood starts to trickle down from between his fingers!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"You...!!"
<waitpad> Lynx staggers to his feet, keeping his right hand on the wound.
<Waitpad>"I will have such fun killing you all...!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> With as much power as she can muster, Kid kicks at Lynx, sweeping him off his feet!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 02><PlaySound 02>"Hah!"
<waitpad> Spitting blood, Kid coughs a little, but still, a smile manages to come through her agony.
<Waitpad>"K... Kid..."
<waitpad> I run over towards her, still feeling the burning grip on my neck.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Lynx turns to Kid, staring at her with his cold, evil gaze.
<Waitpad>"Child, you shall beg for death soon enough. Every flavor of pain shall be yours. Prepare to join Lucca!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 20, 00> Hearing this, Kid's eyes slowly open, and catch sight of Lynx. A red-hot gaze burns in her eyes. Slowly, she rises to her feet!
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF> A shimmering light suddenly spurts out of the Frozen Flame!
<PlaySound 15><24, 1E, 0A><04, FF, 00><04, FF, 01><Delay 03><24, 95, 1E><Delay 0A><24, 19, 1E><Delay 0D><24, 9E, 32><Delay 0F><24, 19, 1E><ClearText> At the same time, a golden light bursts out of Kid's chest!!
<PlaySound 1D><PlaySound 1D><24, 99, 1E><Delay 0A><24, 3A, 14><24, 7F, 08><Delay 05><24, FF, 0A><24, 37, 14><Delay 05><Waitpad><PlaySong 09> Swirling around her, the light rises up, spreading outward in a glistening spiral!
<Waitpad>"Wh, what is this...!?" Lynx gasps.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Delay 0A><Volume 20, 00><Delay 14><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 07><Delay 14> Kid's voice calls out from deep within the shower of light... "You will not win, Lynx!!"
<Waitpad> She trembles, her eyes flowing with red tears.
<Waitpad><Delay 0F><PlaySound 07><PlaySound 07><24, 7F, 0A><Delay 03><24, FF, 28><24, BA, 32><FadeOut F0, 3C><Delay 32><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 01> And then, a single voice can be heard. It's a deep, profound voice... the voice of undeniable honesty and truth.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 28><ClearText><Delay 0F><Call 0x000B1D><FadeIn 70, 78><Delay 28><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 00x, 02y><textspeed 04> Long ago, in a far off kingdom, lived a girl. Because of her power, the kingdom had come to an end, crumbling under its own weight. Many became engulfed in the temporal vortex that was created, never to be heard from again...
<delay 30><Call 0x012C7E><Indent 00x, 02y> ...But not the girl. She lived on, enduring a much sadder fate... Running from her past and fearing her future, she wanted nothing more than to be swallowed up in the surging waves of the vortex of time...
<delay 30><Call 0x012C7E><Indent 06x, 03y>  Hating what she'd done,<delay 0a>
<Indent 04x, 04y> refusing what she'd said or heard,<delay 0a>
<Indent 03x, 05y> to simply continue living was her curse.<delay 30>
<Call 0x012C7E><Indent 09x, 03y> But the stone,<delay 0a>
<Indent 06x, 04y> It had other plans for her...<delay 30>
<Call 0x012C7E><Indent 04x, 03y> Turning back the hands of her clock,<delay 0a>
<Indent 06x, 04y>    scattering her memories,<delay 0a>
<Indent 05x, 05y> she was granted another chance.<delay 30>
<Call 0x012C7E><Indent 02x, 03y> Since the precious stone was in her possession,<delay 0a>
<Indent 03x, 04y> she carried with her all its will and power.<delay 30>
<Call 0x012C7E><Indent 04x, 03y> And so, she was born into this era,<delay 0a>
<Indent 04x, 04y>returning to reality as a mere infant...<delay 30><call 0x007474>
<Call 0x012C7E><FadeOut 70, 3C><Delay 17><ClearBG><Volume 82, 00><Delay 40><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 36><Delay 1E> And with that, the fragments of the shattered Chrono Trigger fall to the ground softly.
<Waitpad> The cavern before us slowly starts to come apart, bending inward and outwards like a tear in reality, until we are completely removed from its existence...
<waitpad><cleartext><delay 10> A single girl's voice resounds in the darkness...
<Delay 14><Call 0x012C7E><Delay 0F><Indent 0ax, 03y><textspeed 04>  "Please...<delay 10>
<Indent 08x, 03y>  This dark energy...<delay 10>
<Indent 09x, 04y>  Make it stop...!!"
<delay 30><Call 0x012C7E><Volume 00, 00><Delay 0A><PlaySong 10><Volume 40, FF><Delay 3C><Call 0x000B3D><04, FF, 00><04, FF, 01><04, FF, 02><FadeIn 70, A0><Delay 3C><textspeed 03> Losing all sense of reality and presence, I become engulfed in this realm, drifting aimlessly through the ages...
<Waitpad> The world flows, time dissolves, and people live and die... I can see it all within this mysterious ocean...
<Waitpad> The origin of time... Every one of life's tranquillities is here...
<Waitpad><Call 0x012C7E> I can see myself as a baby, crying at my mother's side, where she gives a warm, proud grin...
<Waitpad> I can see myself as an old man, softly smiling, knowing that death will come soon.
<Waitpad> Infinite versions of myself extend like ghosts throughout this endless corridor of time...
<Waitpad> Everywhere I look, I see another life, another era... In this unfolded existence, I see countless lives, and countless dreams.
<Waitpad><Call 0x012C7E><Delay 0F><Indent 01x, 04y> Resting in eternity,
<Delay 23><Call 0x012C7E><Indent 03x, 01y> a kind voice calls out to me... 
<Delay 23><Call 0x012C7E><Delay 0F><Indent 0bx, 06y> A single song...
<Call 0x000DB7><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 02><Volume C0, 3C><Delay 78><Indent 00x, 00y><Delay 1E><Call 0x012C7E><Delay 3C><Indent 08x, 03y> ...Kid!
<Delay 1D><Indent 0bx, 04y>    ...Kid!!
<Indent 00x, 00y><Delay 1E><Call 0x012C7E><Indent 07x, 03y> Can you hear my voice!?
<Delay 1A><Indent 0bx, 04y> ...Kid...!?
<Indent 00x, 00y><Delay 1E><Call 0x012C7E><Indent 09x, 03y> Answer me, Kid...
<Delay 0A><Indent 0ax, 04y>    Please...
<Indent 00x, 00y><Delay 1E><Call 0x012C7E><Delay 14><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 0bx, 03y> Who...?
<Delay 0D><Indent 07x, 04y> Who's calling my name...
<Indent 00x, 00y><Delay 2D><Call 0x012C7E><Delay 14><FadeOut F0, 3C><Delay 0F><ClearBG><ClearText><Delay 1E><Volume 20, 1E><Delay 1E><FadeIn 90, 00><call 0x007474>"......<delay 09>Serge...? Wh, where is this...?"
<waitpad><Call 0x000A9D><04, FF, 00>"Kid!? You're here!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 10>"That song... that beautiful song... it was Lucca's favorite..."
<Waitpad> Kid softly smiles, closing her eyes. I can see she can't help but shed a few tears for this long lost reminiscence.
<waitpad> This song is actually something I composed in my earlier years, back when I was a musician. Kid seems to be very fond of it...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"You called out to me, Serge. You called my name. Thank you. You won't leave me, will you?"
<waitpad>"I'm here for you, Kid."
<waitpad>"It all makes so much sense now... I know who I am, Serge... I know what I'm here for."
<waitpad>"Let's go back now, okay? I'm ready."
<waitpad><cleartext><delay 10><FadeIn 6E, 94><ClearText><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 14><Delay 05><PlaySound 12><Call 0x000DA0>"Urrrgh...!"
<Waitpad><PlaySong 0E> Lynx has pinned Kid to the ground!
<Waitpad><FadeOut F0, 14><ClearBG><ClearText><Delay 08><Call 0x000D3C><FadeIn F0, 3C><Delay 14>"And now, you see your death!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> What do I do!?
<Delay 0A><Set 0x14D4 to 01><Goto 0x01245A after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x013B20> *Square off with Lynx! 
<Choice 0x013BE5> *Protect Kid!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x013B20>
 I run over to Lynx, hoping to catch him off guard and ram him!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What do you want, child?"
<waitpad> With a side blow, he strikes me down to the ground!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><cleartext>"K, Kid...!"
<Waitpad> I frantically try to make my way over to Kid!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x013C5B>

<Label 0x013BE5>
<ClearText> Lynx will have to get through me if he wants to get to Kid!
<Waitpad>"Oh, will I get to put you both out of your misery at once?"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x013C5B>

<Label 0x013C5B>
 Lynx raises his sabre overhead, ready to plunge it into us!
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 00><PlaySound 0A>"I wouldn't do that if I was you."
<waitpad><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 00> Quickly turning my head, I look in the direction of the voice.
<Waitpad>"You...!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 1E><Delay 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000A9D><FadeIn 6E, 64><Delay 1E> There, under a large hood, stands the old woman from before!
<waitpad><Volume 80, FF><cleartext>"So, Vera. Looks like Porre couldn't keep their hands out of this after all," says Lynx, flatly.
<Waitpad>"Good to see you again, Master Lynx. Seems you've seen better days..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> The old lady... she's from Porre?
<Waitpad>"The Frozen Flame, we will take custody of it now. It seems none of you can decide on who the rightful owner should be."
<Waitpad> The old lady gives a small signal, and dozens of armed troops rush out from behind her, securing the cavern.
<PlaySound 02><PlaySound 02><PlaySound 02><Waitpad><ClearText>"I will not forget this, Vera!" Lynx shouts, floating up into the air.
<PlaySound 14><Waitpad> Brimming with hatred, Lynx's glance turns to us. "And you! You will see death by my hand!"
<Waitpad> Saying this, Lynx vanishes into thin air!
<PlaySound 2A><24, 7F, 0A><Delay 03><04, FF, 00><24, FF, 14><Delay 08><volume a0, 00><waitpad> The soldiers untie Magil, and start heading towards us.
<waitpad><ClearText> The old woman gazes down on us from under her hood. "I believe you all ought to come with us."
<Waitpad> Looking up, I notice the armed soldiers have swarmed around us, with their weapons ready!
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 02><PlaySound 02><playsong 00><Delay 0F><PlaySound 02> Seeing this, Magil instantly waves his hands in the air, calling out some sort of incantation! "Darkness, envelop under my command!"
<Waitpad><PlaySound 10><24, 1A, 0A><Delay 08><24, 9A, 14><FadeOut 70, 3C><Delay 14><PlaySound 00> Suddenly, all light in the cavern is put out! It's now or never!
<waitpad>"Quickly, Serge!!"
<Waitpad> I grab on to Magil, who's holding Kid. Together, we flee the cavern, vanishing into the darkness!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 28><Delay 0F><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Delay 1E><PlaySong 0D><Delay 1E><Call 0x000B07><FadeIn F0, 78><Delay 2D> Led by Magil, we make our way out of the mansion...
<Waitpad> Back in the forest, we see the search party's torches here and there, hunting for us. Their militant barking can be heard as they continue to get closer and closer to us.
<Waitpad> We stop behind a tree for a moment or two, catching our breath. I look down to Kid, who's taken quite a beating...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Are you okay?"
<waitpad>"Yeah, mate... fine."
<Waitpad>"We're completely surrounded," Says Magil. "We must be on our way."
<waitpad> Looking around, I suddenly see torches all around us, starting to close in.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid suddenly lifts her head up. "Go, Serge... save yerself. The troupe is only after Magil and me. If they find you alone, they'll let ya go."
<Waitpad>"Wh, what are you talking about!? I can't leave you now! Not like this!"
<Waitpad>"I told ya I'll be fine, mate..."
<Waitpad>"But...!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 04><Delay 0F>"Don't worry. I remember now, Serge... who I used to be, long ago..." she says, staring up into the night sky.
<Waitpad> Seeing the reflection of a hundred thousand stars in her eyes, I can't help but be taken in by that lonely, one in a million expression of hers...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid..."
<Waitpad>"Don't worry, I'm okay... I'll see ya again," she says with a smile. "Someday,  I know I'll see ya again... without a doubt."
<Waitpad><ClearText> She softly closes her eyes. "Lucca's Chrono Trigger was lost... we couldn't even get our hand on the Frozen Flame... but, it's okay... it's all okay, because tonight, in my heart, a shiny new treasure was born, Serge... the single most valuable unstealable treasure in the entire world."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Saying this, Kid's stares at me firmly at me with those eyes of hers... those bold, straight, honest eyes.
<waitpad>"Knowing who I am... It's bigger than all this... bigger than Lynx, bigger than the Frozen Flame... and, nothing can take that away... not as long as I'm alive..."
<waitpad><ClearText> At this moment, listening to her under the starry night sky, I find myself wanting nothing more than to be here with her right now. Staring into her eyes, I only wish time could stop right at this instant...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Goodbye, Serge... thank you..."
<waitpad> And with that, Kid turns her back to me and disappears into the darkness.
<waitpad>"Kid...!"
<waitpad>"Don't follow me! Please, don't follow me..."
<waitpad><cleartext> Unable to control my feelings, I start to rush after her, however, a shadow abruptly blocks my path. It's Magil.
<Waitpad> He slowly shakes head, a sorrowful look in his eyes...
<waitpad> With that, his shadowy figure draws back, dissolving into the darkness.
<waitpad>"Magil!?"
<waitpad>"Kid!!"
<Waitpad><Delay 0A><FadeOut F0, 50><Delay 19><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000A12><FadeIn F0, 50><Delay 23><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 08x, 01y>Kid...!
<Delay 2F><Indent 0ax, 02y>Kid...
<Delay 19><FadeOut 90, 5A><Delay 14><ClearText><Delay 0F><26, 52><Delay 0A><FadeOut F0, 5A><ClearBG><Delay 1E><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x014604>

<Label 0x014604>
<FadeOut F0, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Set 0x1493 to 01><Goto 0x00048C>

<Label 0x014614>
<ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Volume 00, FF><If 0x1514 is greater than 47 goto 0x014823><If 0x1514 is greater than 1F goto 0x0147F7> Ouch... My body is screaming at me from all of my cuts and bruises, and I'm a mess upstairs, too. I don't know how much more of this I can handle... I really need to watch myself from here on out.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x014889>

<Label 0x0147F7>
 Kneeling down, I rest for a minute to tend to my wounds.
<waitpad>"Hey, no whinin'. Yer not that bad, mate. I've seen worse hangovers than how you look right now."
<waitpad> I wish I had her determination... After I finish applying my bandages, I get up, hoping I'll be okay.
<waitpad> I can't start to give up now. But boy, these cuts are really starting to hurt...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x014889>

<Label 0x014823>
<If 0x1514 is greater than 65 goto 0x01485D>"Phew... you okay, mate?"
<waitpad>"Yeah, I'm not bad. I've got some bruises here and there, but nothing too serious. You?"
<waitpad>"Aw, are you kiddin'? I kicked that thing's arse so bad, it didn't even have time to say its prayers!"
<waitpad> Yeah, we did pretty good back there, didn't we...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x014889>

<Label 0x01485D>
<cleartext> I really think I'm starting to get the hang of this whole fighting thing. I'm barely hurt at all!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x014889>

<Label 0x014889>
<Goto 0x01488D>

<Label 0x01488D>
<If 0x1515 is greater than 65 goto 0x014943><If 0x1515 is greater than 29 goto 0x0148E9><cleartext>"Dammit, Serge! When are ya gonna bloody grow up and start fightin' like a man?"
<waitpad> Kid's glare shoots into me like an icy lance. I swallow a dry gulp, and continue down the corridor behind her.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01493F>

<Label 0x0148E9>
<cleartext>"You got a thing or two to learn, but yer gettin' there, mate."
<Waitpad> Kid's mischievous eyes sparkle as I glance at her for a moment in the dim moonlight.
<waitpad> I set off down the corridor with her, ready for what's next.
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x01493F>
<goto 0x014782>

<Label 0x014943>
<cleartext>"Not bad, Serge... not bad at all," Kid says, catching my eye.
<Waitpad> A few moments pass, and... she's still staring at me, smiling. Oh man, what do I do? Should I say something?
<waitpad>"<textspeed 04>...<call 0x007474><delay 10>Uhh, heh..."
<waitpad> I look away after a nervous moment, but full of glee. I can never handle this kind of thing -- those baby blues of hers get me every time...
<waitpad><goto 0x014782>

<Label 0x014782>
<ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 07><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0146D9>"Wait a sec, what's that?"
<Waitpad> I bend down and pick up a small leather sack. Looking inside, I find a small bottle filled with a clear liquid.
<waitpad>"Well, go on, mate! You found it, you drink it!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> I hesitantly gulp the potion...
<Waitpad><PlaySound 24><Delay 08> Oh, wow! I feel great! It's making my wounds heal as fast as lightning!
<Waitpad>"Want some, Kid? Oh, sorry, it's all gone..."
<Waitpad><Add 1E to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0146D9><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x0146D9>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 04 goto 0x014890><cleartext>"Hey, hang on a second... what's that thing?" I ask, pointing to a small pouch over in the corner.
<Waitpad> I bend down and pick it up. Opening it, our eyes widen as I take out a small gem!
<Waitpad>"Oi, look at that!" Kid exclaims, her eyes wide as melons. "Good eye, Serge!"
<waitpad> Wow... Kid saying something nice about me is sure nice for a change. Seeing her smile brings twice as big of a grin to my face.
<Waitpad><Add 18 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x014890><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x014890>
<Goto 0x014996>

<Label 0x014996>
<PlaySong 0F><27, 01><ClearText><Return>

<Label 0x01499B>
<FadeOut F0, 1E><ClearBG><ClearText><delay 20><Volume 1A, 00><Delay 0F><Volume 00, FF><Delay 0F><FadeIn 90, 00><PlaySong 03><TextSpeed 08><27, 00><24, 8F, 00><Call 0x000988><Call 0x00099A><Delay 0d>



                          And so, I <TextSpeed 05><Call 0x0009A8>died...

<Indent 00x, 00y><Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 3C><Delay 0F><cleartext><Volume 80, 00><Delay 23><ClearText><PlaySong 00><Goto 0x000000>

<Label 0x0149E3>
<ClearText><If 0x1515 is greater than 65 goto 0x014AFC><If 0x1515 is greater than 29 goto 0x014A7E>"So, how powerful is Lynx?"
<waitpad>"What are ya, chicken?" she taunts, her sharp gaze piercing into me like an icy lance.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x014AF8>

<Label 0x014A7E>
"We gotta get that bastard. He's in here somewhere, I'm sure of it. Before long, we'll be right on top of ya, Lynx!"
<Waitpad> I can see the fire in her eyes from here. Man, she's cute when she's angry...
<Waitpad>"C'mon, what'd ya drag me all the way out here for?"
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x014AF8>
<Goto 0x014B83>

<Label 0x014AFC>
"Seems we got ourselves into a bit of a mess here, eh Serge? Better get our arses in gear!"
<Waitpad>"Yeah..."
<waitpad> To tell you the truth, I can't think of anything better to say, hopelessly lost in her eyes once again. I hope she doesn't notice I can't take my eyes off her...
<Waitpad> Man, she's so strong. Why can't I be more like her...
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x014B83>
<ClearText>"We should head back inside. The sun will be up soon," Magil adds.
<waitpad>"Yeah, really. C'mon mate, time to go."
<Delay 0a><Goto 0x00DD5B>

<Label 0x014BC2>
<ClearText><If 0x1514 is greater than 47 goto 0x014C76><If 0x1514 is greater than 1F goto 0x014C40>"You've been injured, haven't you? Try to give your wounds some rest, at least for now."
<Waitpad> He's right... I can barely even pull off the appearance of looking okay anymore. My whole body is shivering, and these aches are hardly getting any better. Honestly, I don't know how much more of this I can handle. I need to do get some help soon...
<Goto 0x014C72>

<Label 0x014C40>
"You've been injured, haven't you? Try to give your wounds some rest, at least for now."
<Waitpad> Taking his advice, I lean up against the wall and try to relax.


<Label 0x014C72>
<Goto 0x014D24>

<Label 0x014C76>
<If 0x1514 is greater than 65 goto 0x014CDC>"The air is thick with fate, Serge. Be wary of what lurks in these shadows..."
<waitpad> Hearing him say this reminds me of the weight of our situation. Still, aside from a few cuts and bruises, I've managed to keep myself in reasonable shape so far...
<waitpad>"Yeah Magil, I know. It's really going to be something when we finally find that Flame..."
<Goto 0x014D24>

<Label 0x014CDC>
"Well, uh... um... nice moon tonight, huh," I say, not knowing in the least what a guy like Magil would ever want to talk about with anybody, ever.
<Waitpad> A faint smile emerges beneath the shadow of his mask.
<waitpad><cleartext> Looking up at the tall, looming figure of Magil, the weight of my situation strikes home once again. Here I am, standing here with a powerful mage on the doorstep of a deadly mansion, trying to steal a priceless jewel, all while sneaking around, avoiding a maniacal tyrant...
<waitpad><cleartext>"Well hey, it's been a wild night so far. I wish all my life could be this interesting..."
<waitpad>"Do not confuse fun with recklessness, Serge. It may be nothing more than mere luck that has allowed us to avoid death so far."


<Label 0x014D24>
<Waitpad><ClearText>"C'mon, we don't have time to loaf around. Let's get back to work!" I hear Kid say.
<delay 0a><Goto 0x00DD5B>

<Label 0x014D5E>
<FadeOut 70, 00><ClearText><Volume 00, FF><Set 0x151A to 03><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 01><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x014D7F><Goto 0x014D83><Goto 0x014D83>

<Label 0x014D7F>
<Goto 0x0162BB>

<Label 0x014D83>
Suddenly, Kid comes to a stop.
<Waitpad>"Shhh..."
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DB7> I stand as stiff as a pole with my ears wide open. Before long, I hear it too...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 00, 40><PlaySound 0E><Delay 05><PlaySound 0E><Delay 14>
<ClearText> Footsteps...
<Waitpad> Somewhere in this huge, dark labyrinth, something's out there. Does it know we're here?
<Waitpad><Volume 00, 80><PlaySound 0E><Delay 05><PlaySound 0E><Delay 0F> It's louder now. It's coming for us, I'm sure of it...
<waitpad><Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 0E><Delay 05><PlaySound 0E> Oh my God! It's right here!
<Call 0x000B53><FadeIn 6A, 3C><Delay 08>
<ClearText> Shivers run up my spine as I stare at the atrocious fusion of a lion and an eagle, easily twice as tall as me!
<Waitpad> It looks like it hasn't taken notice of us yet... What am I supposed to do!?
<Delay 0a><Goto 0x014EF3 after 0x01A4ms><Choice 0x015137> *Rush it! 
<Choice 0x014F48> *Try to hide and hope it goes past us.
<Start Clock><ClearText>

<Label 0x014EF3>
<ClearText><PlaySound 0E><Delay 01><PlaySound 0E><Delay 0A><Delay 0A>
<ClearText> Suddenly the footsteps stop. I look up to see its eyes are fixed directly on me!
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 05><Goto 0x0162BB>

<Label 0x014F48>
<ClearText><Subtract 14 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x014F59><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x014F59>
"Aw shucks, yer no fun..."
<Waitpad>"Come on, Kid! Hurry!"
<Waitpad> Kid reluctantly hides with me behind a corner. I squat down next to her, patiently holding my breath. Magil is nowhere to be seen, probably already hidden in the shadows.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 0E><Delay 0A><PlaySound 0E><Delay 0A> I hear it approach from around the corner, flapping its wings wildly and billowing smoke form its nostrils. I can feel its immense body heat as it slowly draws closer and closer...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 01><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x015065><Goto 0x0153B7>

<Label 0x015065>
 But then, I let out my breath in relief as the gryphon slowly passes us by, vanishing into the darkness.
<waitpad>"Phew... that was close. I'm not sure we could have handled something that big."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Aw, mate! Where's all that rough-n-tough attitude you were showin' me before we set out? C'mon, let's go!"
<waitpad> After making sure the coast is clear one last time, I slip out from behind the corner and quietly continue on my way.
<Waitpad><ClearBG><ClearText><27, 01><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F><Return>

<Label 0x015137>
<ClearText><Add 14 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x015148><Set 0x1515 to 78><Goto 0x015148>

<Label 0x015148>
"This thing ain't got a prayer! Let's get 'im!!"
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 05> Fearlessly laughing, Kid hardens her hand into a fist.
<Waitpad> Hearing a low chant of some sort, I look over and see Magil stepping out from out of the shadows with a fireball already brewing in his hands.
<Waitpad> As the chant becomes louder and louder, the fireball swells to a raging blaze. His voice nearly shakes the walls as the fireball darts towards the gryphon!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 01><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x015234><PlaySound 11><Subtract 01 from 0x151A><PlaySound 0F><Call 0x000D89>
<Cleartext> Although it didn't set its on fire, the fireball leaves a huge black mark on its thick neck.
<waitpad> I wish we'd done more than just anger it, though. It's starting to charge us, head on!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x015289>

<Label 0x015234>
 As quick as a cat, the huge monstrosity easily avoids the fireball.
<Waitpad>"Damn!"
<Waitpad> I wish we'd done more than just anger it, though. It's starting to charge us, head on!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x015289>

<Label 0x015289>
<ClearText><PlaySound 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000B53><FadeIn 6A, 1E><Delay 0A>
<Cleartext> Just as it's almost on top of us, it stops charging, rising up on its hind legs and extending its wings out fully! Jesus, it's got to have a fifteen foot wingspan, at least!
<waitpad> All I can think about is running, as this huge thing towers over me, but somehow I find myself unable to move even the slightest bit...
<Waitpad><PlaySound 1A><ClearText>"Kid...!"
<Waitpad> The gryphon begins to flap its wings, conjuring a huge gust of wind! I cover my face with hands, shielding myself from the airborne dirt and rocks!
<Waitpad><Cleartext> After rubbing the dirt from my eyes, I realize the huge gryphon is now towering in front of me, inches from my face!
<waitpad><Goto 0x015474>

<Label 0x0153B7>
<PlaySound 0E><Delay 01><PlaySound 0E><Delay 08> Suddenly it stops moving. Something's not right... it knows we're here. It raises its head and surveys the area...
<Waitpad> Oh no! We've been discovered! As its eyes become fixed directly on me, it stretches its wings out, readying itself for an attack!
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 05><PlaySound 0F> The gryphon lets out a bloodcurdling screech! All I can do is stare at it in fear, unable to move a muscle!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x01632A>

<Label 0x015474>
 What am I going to do now!?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x0154BD after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x0156B1> *Jump out of the way! 
<Choice 0x0158BF> *Ram it! 
<Choice 0x015AD1> *Hit the deck!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0154BD>
<ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 01><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x015572>
<Cleartext> The gryphon leaps into the air and starts to descend onto me with its talons spread wide open!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaaahhhh!!"
<Waitpad> It's tearing into my shoulders and arms! I beat the thing off me just before its huge beak lunges at me. Blood starts to stain my shirt as I fall onto the floor!
<Waitpad><Subtract 1C from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01556E> I look down, only to see splashes of red all over my clothes...
<waitpad><FadeOut 70, 32><ClearBG> Amidst the calamity I can hear Kid call out my name, although her voice is sounding more and more distant as I lay on the ground, motionless...
<waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x01556E>
<Goto 0x0155F6>

<Label 0x015572>
 The gryphon swings at me with its right claw! <Call 0x000DA0>A flash shoots through my eyes as my head crashes against the wall!
<Waitpad><Subtract 1C from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0155F6> I rub my head. Looking at my bloody hand, I realize my head is bleeding profusely. I fall to the ground in a daze, moments later.
<waitpad><FadeOut 70, 32><ClearBG> Amidst the calamity I can hear Kid call out my name, although her voice is sounding more and more distant as I lay on the ground, motionless...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x0155F6>
<ClearText><FadeOut 88, 00>"Serge..."
<Waitpad> A voice calls out to me, suddenly. Who it could be...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 08><Delay 02><FadeIn 90, 04>"Serge!! Come on, snap out of it!!"
<Waitpad> Wait, that's Kid! Where am I? Oh, no... we're still fighting that gryphon!
<waitpad> Looking around, I realize Kid has momentarily distracted the gryphon away from me. Now's my chance!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x015D04>

<Label 0x0156B1>
<ClearText> I instinctively leap back!
<Waitpad><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 03><If 0x1519 is greater than 02 goto 0x015723><PlaySound 13> And not a moment too soon... I barely miss a swing from one of the gryphon's log-like legs!
<Waitpad><goto 0x015723>

<Label 0x015723>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x0157ED><PlaySound 14> However the gryphon is easily large enough to reach me! It thrusts its head at me, boring its beak into my chest!
<Waitpad><Subtract 19 from 0x1514><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaaaaahhh!!"
<Waitpad><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0157C5>
<ClearText> I swing madly at the vicious creature, hoping to release me form its excruciating grip! I land a blow on its head, and it releases me as I'm thrown backwards onto the floor!
<call 0x000d89><Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 50><ClearBG> Amidst the calamity I can hear Kid call out my name, although her voice is getting more and more distant as I lay on the ground, motionless...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x0157C5>
<cleartext> I swing madly at the vicious creature, hoping to release me form its excruciating grip! I land a blow on its head, and it releases me as I'm thrown backwards onto the floor!<call 0x000d89><delay 0a> Rubbing my wound, I grit my teeth and ready myself for an attack.
<Waitpad><goto 0x0157ED>

<Label 0x0157ED>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x0158BA><PlaySound 14> The gryphon's right wing
swoops down at me, with its feathers cutting through the air like a thousand steel blades!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Urrgh!!"
<waitpad> I tried to dodge, but I was already cornered into a wall! The feathers have left a number of slits in my arm!
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x015896>"Kid, I'm hit...!"
<Waitpad> The blood starts trickling out of my arm at a frightening speed. I collapse to the floor, disoriented and dizzy...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 32><ClearBG> Amidst the calamity I can hear Kid call out my name, although her voice is getting more and more distant as I lay on the ground, motionless...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x015896>
 I brush off the feathers and face the gryphon. My knife is hungry for blood.
<Waitpad><goto 0x0158BA>

<Label 0x0158BA>
<ClearText><Goto 0x015D04>

<Label 0x0158BF>
<ClearText> I start sprinting towards the gryphon, hoping to bash it with all my weight!
<Waitpad><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 03><If 0x1519 is greater than 02 goto 0x015930> It snaps at me as I come in close, wanting nothing less than my head in its beak. It catches only air, however!
<PlaySound 14><Waitpad><goto 0x015930>

<Label 0x015930>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x0159F0><PlaySound 13> As I come in close it swings at me with one of its claws!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaaaahh!!"
<waitpad> The razor-sharp talons tear across my torso!
<Waitpad><Subtract 19 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0159C8> I drop to the floor, grasping my belly in pain as I try to stop the bleeding.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 32><ClearBG> I hear Kid calling out to me, but her voice is getting more and more distant as I lay dazed on the floor, motionless...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x0159C8>
 Pulling my shirt down over the wound, I try to ignore the pain and regain my focus!
<Waitpad><goto 0x0159F0>

<Label 0x0159F0>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x015ACC><PlaySound 14> The gryphon's wings cut through the wind, with its razor-like feathers cutting effortlessly into my side!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaaaahhh!!"
<waitpad> The feathers have left countless tears in my skin. Huge red blotches start staining my shirt.
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x015A9A>"K, Kid... I'm hit...!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> My whole body seizes in pain as I roll on the floor, almost unconscious...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 32><ClearBG> I hear Kid calling out to me, but her voice is becoming more and more distant as I lay dazed on the floor, motionless...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x015A9A>
 Backing away from the vile creature, I remove the feathers from my body. This isn't looking good...
<Waitpad><goto 0x015ACC>

<Label 0x015ACC>
<ClearText><Goto 0x015D04>

<Label 0x015AD1>
<ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 03><If 0x1519 is greater than 02 goto 0x015B70><PlaySound 14> The gryphon's wings flair up, coming at me for a swatting attack!
<Waitpad> The moment I go to duck down low, I see its wings graze the air just inches above my head!
<Waitpad> That was such a close call! I quickly get up and ready myself for what's next.
<Waitpad><ClearText>

<Label 0x015B70>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x015C3A> Before I realize what's going on, the gryphon snaps at me with its huge beak!
<PlaySound 14><Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaaahhh!"
<waitpad> The gryphon bores a huge crevice into my shoulder!
<Waitpad><Subtract 1C from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x015C11>"Kid...!"
<Waitpad> I back away from the creature, gritting my teeth as I grasp the wound. The bleeding isn't stopping!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 32><ClearBG><ClearText> I hear Kid calling out to me, but her voice is getting more and more distant as I lay on the floor, motionless...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x015C11>
 I put some pressure on the wound, trying to think of how I can take a piece out of this overgrown bird.
<Waitpad><ClearText><goto 0x015C3A>

<Label 0x015C3A>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x015CFF><PlaySound 13> The gryphon swoops down, aiming its razor-sharp talons directly for me!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0>"Aaaahhh!"
<waitpad> I tried to duck, but it only allowed the horrid claws to dig into my back!
<Waitpad><Subtract 18 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x015CD7><ClearText>"Kid...!"
<Waitpad> My whole body seizes in pain as I roll on the floor, almost unconscious...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 32><ClearBG> I hear Kid calling out to me, but her voice is getting more and more distant as I lay on the floor, motionless...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x015CD7>
 Rolling around on the floor, I shake myself free of its grip! Scampering away, I grit my teeth and try to ignore the blaring pain.
<Waitpad><goto 0x015CFF>

<Label 0x015CFF>
<ClearText><Goto 0x015D04>

<Label 0x015D04>
 Trying to break free of that ferocious, visceral gaze, I remember the knife I'm holding and grip it tight!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x0154BD after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x015D65> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x01607A> *Protect myself! 
<Choice 0x01619A> *Run!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x015D65>
<ClearText><Add 0F to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x015D76><Set 0x1515 to 78><goto 0x015D76>

<Label 0x015D76>
 Quickly switching my knife to a backhand grip, I swing at the gryphon's neck with all my rage!
<PlaySound 14><Waitpad><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 03><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x015EEB><Call 0x000D89><PlaySound 0F> The gryphon writhes in pain as blood starts trickling down its neck!
<Waitpad> All right! A weak spot!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 02 from 0x151A><If 0x151A is less than 0A goto 0x015E05><Set 0x151A to 00>

<Label 0x015E05>
<If 0x151A doesn't equal 00 goto 0x015EAD> The gryphon starts to slowly move in on me, one step at a time. But then, suddenly, it stops. With a blank look in its eyes, it stumbles a bit, and then comes crashing to the ground with a huge thud!
<playsound 04><Waitpad><ClearText><24, AF, 00><ClearBG><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x015EAD>
<Cleartext> Twitching in pain, the gryphon tries to get up. Kid steps over to it with my knife in hand, ready to finish the job.
<Waitpad><ClearText><goto 0x015EEB>

<Label 0x015EEB>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x015F5B> However, seeing its fate, the gryphon desperately recoils, leaving me with nothing but a fumbled attack! It then swings at me, eager to defend itself!
<PlaySound 14><Waitpad> I dodge, but then accidentally slip and fall to the ground!
<Waitpad><ClearText><goto 0x015F5B>

<Label 0x015F5B>
<If 0x1519 is greater than 02 goto 0x016076> I send my knife arcing through the air, hoping to connect with raw flesh!
<waitpad><Call 0x000D89> It reels back in pain!
<Waitpad><Subtract 01 from 0x151A><If 0x151A is less than 0A goto 0x015F94><Set 0x151A to 00>

<Label 0x015F94>
<If 0x151A doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01603C><cleartext> The gryphon starts to slowly move in on me, one step at a time. Then, suddenly, it stops. With a blank look in its eyes, it stumbles a bit, and comes crashing to the ground with a huge thud!
<PlaySound 0B><Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x01603C>
 I back away as I watch the blood start to gush from its wound.
<Waitpad><ClearText><goto 0x016076>

<Label 0x016076>
<Goto 0x01649F>

<Label 0x01607A>
<Add 14 to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01608A><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x01608A>
<Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x01609A><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x01609A>
<ClearText> I take a moment to duck out of the action and catch my breath.
<Waitpad>"Serge, get yer arse back here!"
<Waitpad> I look up to see Kid squaring off with the beast, landing an uppercut directly into the base of its right wing!
<PlaySound 0F><Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> Her blow was well placed, adding injury to an already open wound the gryphon had suffered. It reels backward, screeching in pain!
<Waitpad><cleartext> It's now or never, I tell myself! I sneak up on the gryphon from behind, trying to stay within its blind spot.
<waitpad> But then, all of a sudden, the gryphon snaps around, billowing its scalding breath down on me!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x015474>

<Label 0x01619A>
<Subtract 14 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0161AA><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x0161AA>
<ClearText> Kid and Magil should probably be able to handle this one just fine. I start to back away from the scene, but then... "Hey, mate, where do ya think yer goin'!?"
<Waitpad> Damn, Kid's got to have eyes on the back of her head!
<Waitpad><ClearText> The gryphon takes a swing at her! Then, its infernal red eyes turn towards me, paralyzing me as it draws ever closer!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x015474>

<Label 0x0162BB>
<ClearText><PlaySound 0F> Suddenly, a bloodcurdling screech cuts through the darkness! Scared stiff at the deafening sound, I look up to see two gigantic, maddening red eyeballs staring straight at me!
<delay 05><PlaySong 05><Call 0x000B53><FadeIn 6A, 28><Delay 08> It's a gryphon!!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x01632A>

<Label 0x01632A>
 Before I can even unsheathe my knife, it starts to flap its wings viciously, conjuring a tremendous gust of wind!
<Waitpad> I'm knocked clear off my feet, banging my head up against a wall!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 12 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is greater than 01 goto 0x016406> I wince as my head throbs in pain!
<FadeOut 70, 32><ClearBG> I hear a voice start to call my name from the dark depths below me. Calling out for me to join them, I soon forget the calamity of the fight as it becomes ever more distant...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x016406>
"Serge! You okay?"
<Waitpad> My body aches from head to toe. I struggle to ignore the pain as I hastily get back up!
<Waitpad><cleartext> I bend down to grab my knife. As I stand back up with it in my hand, I suddenly realize the gryphon has already cornered me off! It stands no less than a few feet in front of me, its enraged red eyes glowing like ember!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x015474>

<Label 0x01649F>
<ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 03><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x0164CA> I hastily fix my stance, ready for another attack within moments.
<waitpad><Goto 0x015D04>

<Label 0x0164CA>
<If 0x1519 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x01661E>"Serge! Move!!" Magil's thundering voice booms from behind!
<Waitpad> Not knowing what to expect, I immediately hit the deck! Suddenly from above, a blazing streak of red shoots through the air, straight into the heart of the gryphon!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> Its body bursts into flames! It rises up on its hind legs, screeching in pain!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 01 from 0x151A><If 0x151A doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0165E4> Engulfed in fire, the gryphon crashes onto the floor with a huge thud!
<PlaySound 0B><Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x0165E4>
 The beast tramples around madly, now a crazed mess of rage and agony. Then suddenly, regaining its wits, it starts to charge furiously at me!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x015474>

<Label 0x01661E>
<If 0x1519 is greater than 02 goto 0x0167C1>"Don't move, Serge!!" I hear Kid shout. Suddenly, she vaults over my shoulders from behind!
<Waitpad>"Haaa!!"
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad> All right! She's landed a powerful jump kick on the side of the gryphon's neck! Its head snaps backwards, letting loose a terrifying howl!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 01 from 0x151A><If 0x151A doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01677B> The gryphon starts to slowly move in on me, one step at a time. Then, suddenly, it stops. With a blank look in its eyes, it stumbles a bit, and then comes crashing to the ground with a huge thud!
<PlaySound 0B><Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x01677B>
 Madly rambling around, the gryphon's fiery gaze suddenly zeroes in on me, angrier than ever!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x015474>

<Label 0x0167C1>
<ClearBG><Set 0x14DF to 00><volume 00, 00><Set 0x14DD to 01><26, 01><ClearText><PlaySound 1A> All of a sudden, a chilly wind blows past me.<Volume ff, FF>
<Waitpad> Not only that, but also, a thick fog has started to accumulate all around us.
<waitpad> We're in trouble...
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14DE doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0168BF> It swirls around us faster and faster. After a few moments it coagulates before me, forming into some sort of humanoid shape.
<Waitpad><goto 0x0168BF>

<Label 0x0168BF>
<FadeOut 70, 01><Call 0x000B9A><FadeIn 68, 9A><Set 0x14DE to 01>"It's a poltergeist... Don't move."
<waitpad> Kid's whispering does nothing but add to my increasing feelings of fear and dread. How are we supposed to fight something that doesn't even have a body?
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x016934>

<Label 0x016934>
 From beside me, a low voice starts to echo throughout the dim hallway. It's Magil -- he seems to be starting some sort of incantation. But, what am I going to do in the meantime!?
<PlaySong 05><PlaySound 1A><Goto 0x0169B5 after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x016F39> *Hide behind Magil! 
<Choice 0x017370> *Hope to scare if off by unsheathing my knife! 
<Choice 0x0175EF> *Try to escape!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0169B5>
<ClearText><Set 0x14DD to 00> Dammit, I don't know what to do! It's starting to draw closer!
<waitpad> Oh no, it's coming faster and faster!
<waitpad> Its body begins to diffuse as it approaches, surrounding us in a thick haze!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x016A06>

<Label 0x016A06>
<ClearText><PlaySound 25> I'm starting to feel light-headed...
<waitpad> Suddenly, I feel incredibly tired. I open my eyes, only to see that there's a chilly fog all around me! It must be starting to drain my life force!
<waitpad> I've got to stop it before it sucks me dry! I try to dissipate the fog by waving my arms around, but it doesn't seem to be doing anything!
<waitpad><cleartext> Getting... so... tired...<delay 0a>
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 08 from 0x1514><ClearText><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x016B19><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x016B19>
<If 0x14DD doesn't equal 00 goto 0x016B25><Goto 0x016BB0>

<Label 0x016B25>
<Goto 0x016FF7>

<Label 0x016B29>
<ClearText> So... cold...!
<Waitpad> I'm so unsteady, I could stumble off my feet any second now. My eyes are getting heavy...
<waitpad> I come to, seeing Kid frantically waving her arms, trying to dissipate the haze around us. It seems like she's shouting something, but I can't seem to hear a thing...
<waitpad> I shiver and tremble more and more as I start to succumb...
<waitpad> It feels as though I'm sinking deeper and deeper into an icy tomb, as I continue to get sleepier and sleepier...
<Waitpad><FadeOut F0, F0><PlaySound 00><Volume 20, 00><ClearText><ClearBG><FadeIn F0, 01><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x016BB0>
<ClearText><If 0x14DF doesn't equal 01 goto 0x016BBD><Goto 0x0177C6>

<Label 0x016BBD>
<Set 0x14DF to 01> The cold air hits me as though I've been thrown into an ice-cold lake.
<Waitpad> Beyond the thick haze, I can now just barely make out the figures of Kid and Magil. I'm getting... more and more... tired...
<Delay 08><FadeOut 70, 3C><FadeIn 68, 0F><Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x016C33><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x016C33>
"Don't you think Kid has thick ankles, Serge?"
<waitpad> What the heck is Magil mumbling about...
<delay 0a><Goto 0x016D00 after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x016E2F> *"...Huh?" I ask after a moment, scratching my head. 
<Choice 0x016D22> *"...Yeah, those cankles couldn't get any worse," I answer immediately. 
<Choice 0x016DD7> *"...Milk, milk, lemonade," I start to recite playfully.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x016D00>
<Subtract 0B from 0x1514><ClearText> C, cold...
<Waitpad><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x016D1E><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x016D1E>
<Goto 0x016BB0>

<Label 0x016D22>
<Subtract 0B from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x016D32><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x016D32>
<ClearText><Call 0x000DA0> Oof!
<waitpad> Having Kid kick me in the back is more than enough to snap me out of these delusions.
<waitpad>"Dammit Serge, bloody snap out of it!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Okay... I think I'm all right now.
<Waitpad><Subtract 05 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x016DD3><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x016DD3>
<Goto 0x016BB0>

<Label 0x016DD7>
<ClearText> Ohh, my aching head...
<Waitpad> I open my mouth, but all that comes out is gibberish.
<Waitpad><Subtract 09 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x016E2A><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x016E2A>
<ClearText><Goto 0x016BB0>

<Label 0x016E2F>
<ClearText> Suddenly I seem to snap out of it, realizing I'm not dead yet.
<waitpad> Beside me, I see Magil standing completely still, holding the back of my neck as he chants. Then, all of a sudden, a powerful looking burst of energy shoots out from his other hand, blazing towards the poltergeist!
<Waitpad><ClearText> The searing hot burst of psychic force brushes by my face, almost singeing me as it collides with the shrieking enemy!
<call 0x000d89><Waitpad> The apparition writhes about in the air, violently injured. It looks as though it's boiling all over.
<PlaySound 1D><Delay 0F><PlaySound 19><24, 7F, 78><Volume 20, 00><Delay 2D><24, 0F, 01><24, FF, 02><24, 8F, 01><Goto 0x0170C8>

<Label 0x016F39>
<Subtract 0B from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x016F49><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x016F49>
<Set 0x14DD to 01><ClearText> I run and hide behind Magil, but this only seems to draw the poltergeist's attention! It blows a gust of wind in my direction, and suddenly I find myself hurling through the air, crashing into a nearby wall a moment later!<call 0x000da0>
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x016A06>

<Label 0x016FF7>
 It feels as though I'm sinking deeper and deeper into an icy tomb, as I continue to get sleepier and sleepier...
<Waitpad> ...C, cold...
<Delay 0C><FadeOut 70, 3C><FadeIn 68, 0F><Waitpad><ClearText> A moment later, I feel the warm grip of Magil's hand seize the back of my neck. He begins to chant, and a soft blue light surrounds my field of vision. His words reverberate inside my head, and suddenly, the fog dissipates!
<PlaySound 1D><delay 05><PlaySound 19><Delay 08><Volume 20, 00><24, 4F, 0A><24, 7F, 1E><24, 0F, 01><24, CF, 02><24, FF, 02><Delay 10><Goto 0x0170C8>

<Label 0x0170C8>
<FadeOut F0, 01><Delay 0F><ClearText><ClearBG>"Serge! Hey, Serge! Ya still with us?" I hear, as I realize someone's slapping me again and again.
<FadeIn F0, 78><Delay 29>"Kid!"
<waitpad> Dazed, I stumble back to my feet.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"All of this magic is making me dizzy..."
<Waitpad>"I had to counter the poltergeist's attack directly through your body, Serge," Magil says. "You will survive."
<Waitpad><ClearText>

<Label 0x0171E6>
"C'mon, what're we waitin' around for?" Kid stammers blankly.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x017219>
<FadeOut F0, 01><Delay 0F><ClearText><ClearBG><FadeOut F0, 01>"Serge! Hey, Serge! Ya still with us?" I hear, as I realize someone's slapping me over and over...
<FadeIn F0, 78><FadeOut F0, 78><FadeIn F0, 78><Delay 48><Waitpad>"Kid!" I shout, groggily getting up.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x1515 is less than 46 goto 0x01736C>"Serge! I thought... Bein' under for that long and all..."
<Waitpad> Wow, she seems concerned... almost really distraught. How long was I under?
<Waitpad>"But hey, no loss! Yer back, good as new!"
<waitpad> Well I don't know if I'd say that, but...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x01736C>
 How long was I out for? I feel so weird...
<waitpad><Goto 0x0171E6>

<Label 0x017370>
<ClearText> I reach for my knife, trying to put on my game face. With my weapon extended out in front of me, I focus my attention of the tip of the blade...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Suddenly, an icy chill blows through me. The temperature seems to be dropping at an alarming rate...
<waitpad> C, cold...
<Waitpad><ClearText> As I start to shiver more and more, I realize my knife isn't going to do me a bit of good against this thing's magic!
<Waitpad> So... cold...
<waitpad> It feels as though I could tip over and shatter into a thousand pieces...!
<Waitpad><Delay 0F><FadeOut 70, 3C><FadeIn 68, 0F><Subtract 09 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x017497><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x017497>
<ClearText><Add 0F to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0174A8><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x0174A8>
"Serge! Come on mate, snap out of it!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> The sound of Kid's voice pierces into my consciousness like a hot knife through butter.
<Waitpad> However, I quickly start to lose it once again. She runs to my side as I start to tumble over.
<waitpad> With my last few bits of energy, I open my eyes, and see Magil letting loose some sort of spell, streaking towards the poltergeist!
<waitpad><PlaySound 1C><24, 4F, 0A><24, 7F, 05><24, 0F, 01><24, CF, 02><24, FF, 02><ClearText>
<Delay 17><Volume 30, 00><PlaySound 00><FadeOut F0, B4><ClearBG><Delay 08><ClearText><Goto 0x017219>

<Label 0x0175EF>
<ClearText> I bolt down the hallway, trying to get as far away from the horrid thing as possible!
<Waitpad><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 01><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x017679><Goto 0x01767D><Goto 0x01767D>

<Label 0x017679>
<Goto 0x0176E6>

<Label 0x01767D>
<ClearText><Set 0x14DD to 00> Uh oh...
<waitpad> The misty haze stretches out to me, overcoming me much faster than I can escape! I'm taken into the fog as the ice-cold wind penetrates me...
<Waitpad><Subtract 0B from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0176E2><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x0176E2>
<Goto 0x016A06>

<Label 0x0176E6>
<ClearText><Subtract 05 from 0x1514> The poltergeist's body dissolves into a haze as its body expands, diluting into the air all around me. As I feel an icy wind tingle my skin, I start to feel drained...
<Waitpad><Call 0x0388CC> I've never felt such a bitter cold in my entire life! Unless I do something quick, I won't last much longer...
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x017771><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x017771>
 Knowing It's now or never, I struggle with all my might to break free of the poltergeist's deadly haze!
<waitpad> I kick and shout, trying to tear through the fog! And then, suddenly, I break free! The poltergeist shrieks and howls, its transluscent body torn in half!
<waitpad> However, once I break free of the haze, I realize I'm headed straight for a wall! I crash into it with a thud, unable to halt my momentum!
<call 0x000da0><Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F><27, 01><ClearBG><ClearText><Return>

<Label 0x0177C6>
<ClearText><If 0x14DF doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0177D3><Goto 0x016BB0>

<Label 0x0177D3>
<Set 0x14DF to 00> I groan as I feel the life energy being drained from my body...
<Waitpad> Sanity... unraveling...
<Waitpad> ...Where... am I...?
<Delay 08><FadeOut 70, 78><FadeIn 68, 0F><Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x017846><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x017846>
"Serge! The cat's asleep!" Magil says to me. What the...?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x0178FB after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x0179B8> *"Anaconda!" I reply immediately. 
<Choice 0x016E2F> *"...What...?" I ask, confused.
<Choice 0x01792A> *"I think it's a 34 B-cup," I say after a moment.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0178FB>
<Subtract 0B from 0x1514><ClearText> M, Magil...? What's going on?
<Waitpad><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x017926><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x017926>
<Goto 0x016BB0>

<Label 0x01792A>
<ClearText><Subtract 0B from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x01793B><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x01793B>
"How can you be sure?"
<Waitpad>"After going through her clothes one time, I saw the tag."
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0> Oof!
<waitpad> Dammit, I forgot Kid's here too...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 05 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0179B4><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x0179B4>
<Goto 0x016BB0>

<Label 0x0179B8>
<ClearText>"...Anaconda!"
<Waitpad> Kid instantly jumps back upon hearing this. Accidentally, she collides with a wall, falling down in the process.
<Waitpad> Getting up, she comes over and slaps me in the face!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 08 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x017A0B><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x016B29>

<Label 0x017A0B>
<ClearText><Goto 0x016BB0>

<Label 0x017A10>
<ClearBG><Random 0x1517><AND 0x1517 with 01><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x017A27><Goto 0x017A2B><Goto 0x017A2B>

<Label 0x017A27>
<Goto 0x01861F>

<Label 0x017A2B>
<ClearText> Ahead of me, I hear Kid come to a sudden stop.
<Waitpad>"What's wrong!?" I ask in a whisper.
<Waitpad> I look over, only to see Kid pointing down the dark hallway. Squinting my eyes, I try to look for something. After a while, I start to see some sort of a white mass, a ways ahead of us.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"What is it?" I ask, readying my knife.
<Waitpad> And then, as if reacting to my voice, it starts to quickly scurry towards us, growing taller and taller as it approaches!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000B80><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 05> It's a skeleton!!
<Waitpad><26, 31> Quick, what do we do!?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x017D1D after 0x0258ms><Choice 0x017B88> *Fall back! 
<Choice 0x017CAE> *Ram it! 
<Choice 0x017CD3> *Examine it!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x017B88>
<ClearText> I take two or three meager steps back, hoping there aren't any walls behind me.
<Waitpad> Seeing an opportunity, the skeleton deftly raises its sword overhead!
<Waitpad><ClearText> The tip of its sword grazes my cheek as it brings its rusty blade down, sending me back even further!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><26, 31><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x017C1D><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x017C1D>
<cleartext> All of a sudden, Kid comes out from behind, landing a roundhouse directly onto its mid-section!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad>"Thanks, Kid!" I shout out as the skeleton topples over!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x017E4E>

<Label 0x017CAE>
<ClearText> I immediately start rushing, hoping to catch it off guard!
<waitpad>"Arrrghh!"
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><26, 31><Goto 0x017E4E>

<Label 0x017CD3>
<ClearText> Noticing me staring at it, the mangled skeleton stares down at me, its blazing red eyes striking fear into my heart! Even without a face, It harbors an unquestionably evil aura...
<Waitpad> Staring into its two deep eye sockets, a feeling of dread starts to creep its way into me...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x017D1D>

<Label 0x017D1D>
<ClearText> Then, suddenly, the skeleton starts to rush me!
<waitpad><Call 0x000DA0><26, 31><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x017D4D><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x017D4D>
"Aaaahhhh!" I scream, shutting my eyes as I'm pushed up against a wall!
<waitpad> As I open my eyes, all I can see are ribs. The skeleton has sandiched me between it and the wall, and is trying to viciously bite into me!
<Waitpad> I immediately start to flail my arms, trying desperately to get the awful thing off of me!
<Waitpad><ClearText> I manage to knock the skeleton away with a lucky punch!<call 0x000d89><delay 0a> The set of bones tumble back onto the floor! However, I don't see the skull anywhere...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Serge! Above ya!!"
<Waitpad> Oh no! The skull has clamped down onto my hood! What am I going to do!?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x0183E7 after 0x0258ms><Choice 0x018426> *Carefully try to open its jaw and get it off me! 
<Choice 0x018484> *Rip my hood off! 
<Choice 0x0183E7> *Start crying like a little girl!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x017E4E>
<cleartext> With a hollow clatter, the skeleton comes toppling down to the ground! Ribs fly everywhere as its spine breaks in two!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I think you've had enough!" Kid shouts, looking over the crumbled heap of bones.
<Waitpad> Suddenly, as if somehow reacting to her taunts, the skeleton's remains begin to stir once again!
<waitpad> I back away in shock as the skeleton's torso starts to prop itself up with its left hand! Its right hand then grasps its dislodged skull and holds it up, staring straight at us!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What the..."
<Waitpad> Suddenly, the skeleton hurls its skull at me with blinding speed!
<Waitpad> What do I do!?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x017F67 after 0x0258ms><Choice 0x018034> *Catch it! 
<Choice 0x018071> *Dodge!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x017F67>
<ClearText><Call 0x000DA0>"Ooof!"
<waitpad> The skull crashes against my forehead, causing me to stumble down to the floor in a daze!
<Waitpad><26, 31><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x017F9C><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x017F9C>
"Hey, what do ya think yer doin' down there?" Kid teases, before walking over towards the skull and shattering it under her foot!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> At the very same moment, the skeleton suddenly loses all sense of life, as it comes crashing down to the floor! I look up, seeing nothing but a lifeless heap of bones!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><ClearText>"Awright! Let's go!"
<Waitpad>"Ooohhh... just a second," I say, rubbing my head...
<Delay 08><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x018034>
<ClearText><Set 0x1517 to 00> I nimbly catch the skull in my hand!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x018177> *Throw it back! 
<Choice 0x0181EB> *Smash it onto the floor!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x018071>
<ClearText> I do my best to dodge the incredibly fast moving skull!
<Waitpad>"Hah!"
<waitpad> I've managed to dodge the skull. However, looking behind me, I see that it's struck Kid instead!
<Waitpad>"Bollocks!" She shouts, slapping me in the face!
<call 0x000da0><Waitpad><Subtract 05 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x018102><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x018102>
<ClearText> Magil quickly slides over to the skull, smashing it under his feet!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> As soon as this happens, the skeleton falls to the ground, now nothing more than a lifeless heap of bones!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7>"Awright! Let's go!" says Kid, after vengefully scattering the remaining bones everywhere.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x018177>
<ClearText><Add 01 to 0x1517><If 0x1517 is less than 04 goto 0x018188><Goto 0x018293>

<Label 0x018188>
 I throw the skull back at the skeleton, but unfortunately its catlike reflexes allow it to catch it and hurl it back towards me, almost before I have time to react!
<waitpad> I barely manage to catch the skull! But, what do I do now!?
<delay 0a><Choice 0x018177> *Throw it back! 
<Choice 0x0181EB> *Smash it onto the floor!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0181EB>
<ClearText> I kneel down to the ground and raise the skull high above my head! Then, with all my might, I hurl it down to the ground with blinding speed!
<PlaySound 1C><Waitpad><cleartext> As soon as I do this, the remains of the skeleton crumble lifelessly to the ground! Kid runs up to the pile, scattering the bones everywhere.
<waitpad> Relieved, I crawl back a ways, staring at the shattered skull before me.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><ClearText>"Now you've had enough," Kid says.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x018293>
<ClearText> Again, the skeleton manages to effortlessly catch its skull, and volleys it back at me, quicker and quicker each time!
<Waitpad> However, this time, Kid comes between the two of us and intercepts the skull in her outstretched hands!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Since when did this become dodge ball?" she asks, heatedly lobbing the skull at me! I'm unable to react in time, and it slams into my head, exploding into countless pieces!
<26, 31><PlaySound 0B><Delay 02><PlaySound 1C><Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01836F><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x01836F>
 With the skull gone, the remains of the skeleton fall lifelessly to the ground!
<waitpad>"Yeah, I guess that fight went on a little too long," I say apologetically, rubbing my head...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7>"Looks like that's that. C'mon, we don't have any more time to waste!"
<Waitpad>"Urrghh... okay..."
<waitpad><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x0183E7>
<ClearText>"Aaaaaahhhh!"
<waitpad> I run around in circles, desperately trying to get this crazy thing off of me! No matter what I do, nothing seems to make it let go!
<Waitpad> Amidst the confusion, Magil suddenly calls out, "Serge! Don't move a muscle!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0184D9>

<Label 0x018426>
<ClearText> I carefully try to pry the tightly clamped jaw open, but all I succeed in doing is helping the skull bite my fingers!
<waitpad>"Aaaaaahhhh!"
<waitpad> I run around in circles, desperately trying to get this crazy thing off of me! No matter what I do, nothing seems to make it let go!
<Waitpad> Amidst the confusion, Magil suddenly calls out, "Serge! Don't move a muscle!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0184D9>

<Label 0x018484>
<ClearText>"Aaahhhhh!"
<waitpad> I frantically grab my hood, but all I succeed in doing is provoking the skull into biting at my fingertips!
<Waitpad> Amidst the confusion, Magil suddenly calls out, "Serge! Don't move a muscle!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0184D9>

<Label 0x0184D9>
 All of a sudden, Magil sends a bolt of light streaking out, precisely above my head where the skull is!<call 0x000d89><delay 0a> It instantly explodes, sending fragments of the skull into my hands and head!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><26, 31>"Aaaahhh!"
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x018526><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x018526>
 I... I feel dizzy... I fall over, dazed...
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, luckily enough, the moment the skull had shattered, the remains of the skeleton had fallen limp! It's now nothing more than a lifeless heap of bones!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><ClearText>"Urrghh... Magil..."
<waitpad>"Serge, for your own safety, next time I say stand still, please do so. My magic would have vaporized the skull instead of shatter it, if you had not stirred so much."
<waitpad>"No matter, it's over with," Kid adds. "Let's go."
<waitpad><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x01861F>
<ClearText> Just ahead of me, I bump into Kid, who's come to a complete stop.
<waitpad>"Somethin's wrong, mate."
<Waitpad> I stop my breath, trying to listen for anything.
<waitpad><cleartext> Then, out of the darkness... "Clunk... clunk... clunk..."
<Waitpad> Something's ahead of us on the path. Whatever it is, it's coming for us.
<waitpad> I nervously unsheathe my knife, trying to ignore my anxiety for this inevitable confrontation, now only moments away!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000B80><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 05>"It's a skeleton!!"
<26, 31><Waitpad> Quick, what do we do!?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x0186E2 after 0x0258ms><Choice 0x018812> *Run! 
<Choice 0x0186E2> *Look for a weak spot! 
<Choice 0x018855> *Attack!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0186E2>
<ClearText> The skeleton takes a step forward with its sword in hand!
<Waitpad> Just as Magil begins to move in on it, it raises its arms overhead. Staring at him with a strange look in its eyes, Magil suddenly stops dead in his tracks!
<waitpad><ClearText>"Magil! Snap out of it!" I shout, but his eyes are totally glazed over, completely unaware of his situation! What am I going to do!?
<delay 0a><Goto 0x0188FB after 0x0258ms><Choice 0x018A74> *Run! 
<Choice 0x018ABA> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x018BB6> *Keep trying to snap him out of it!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x018812>
<ClearText>"We've gotta get outta here!"
<waitpad><Subtract 12 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x018835><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x018835>
 However, as soon as I try to flee, I feel a tugging on my shirt! I look back, only to see Kid, frustratedly trying to keep me in the battle!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0186E2>

<Label 0x018855>
<ClearText> I shout out, fearlessly dashing towards the skeleton!
<Waitpad> As soon I come within attacking range, the skeleton immediately swings its huge sword down at me!
<Waitpad> The tip of the sword skims my cheek!
<waitpad><Call 0x000DA0><26, 31><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0188AB><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x0188AB>
"Aaaahhh!" I cry, leaping to the side in haste!
<Waitpad>"Whoa, way to dodge, mate!" Kid shouts from beside me.
<Add 08 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0188F6><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x0188F6>
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0186E2>

<Label 0x0188FB>
<ClearText>"C'mon, what're ya waitin' for!?" Kid stammers, quickly rushing the skeleton!
<Waitpad> The skeleton, unfortunately being much quicker than her, leaps to the side just as she approaches it. However, seeing an opportunity, she leaps behind it and quickly brings out a powerful roundhouse kick!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><ClearText> The skeleton's body buckles as its spine breaks in two! It topples down to the ground, now severed completely in half!
<Waitpad>"I think you've had enough!" Kid shouts, looking over the crumbled heap of bones.
<waitpad><cleartext> But suddenly, the skeleton's remains begins to stir! I back away in shock as the skeleton's hand begin to prop its severed torso up! It picks up its rusty sword with its other hand, and throws it straight at me!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x018C35 after 0x0258ms><Choice 0x018CA1> *Dodge! 
<Choice 0x018CA1> *Duck! 
<Choice 0x018C35> *Stand there like a bump on a log!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x018A74>
<ClearText>"Come on, mate! Chicken out now and I'm leavin' ya behind!"
<Subtract 0E from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x018A9A><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x018A9A>
 She's right... I can't keep on running from everything!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0188FB>

<Label 0x018ABA>
<ClearText> I start to bolt towards the gruesome creature!
<Waitpad> Avoiding a deadly slash by its rusty sword, I aim a kick for the skeleton's mid-section!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> And with that, the skeleton breaks in two, toppling down to the ground as I carefully back away!
<waitpad> As the skull hits the ground, it shatters into countless pieces!
<playsound 1C><Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x018D8A>

<Label 0x018BB6>
<ClearText>"Magil! Hey, Magil! Wake up!"
<Waitpad> No matter how hard I shake him, his glazed expression remains the same!
<Waitpad>"It's no use... that thing's got him good!" Kid says, turning her eyes towards the skeleton.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0188FB>

<Label 0x018C35>
<ClearText> Scared out of my wits, I shut my eyes tight and start whimpering!
<waitpad> Suddenly I hear the sound of a sword cutting through the air!
<PlaySound 14><Waitpad><call 0x000da0>"Aaaahhh!"
<waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x018C81><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x018C81>
 I slowly back away, gritting my teeth while cradling the newly formed slash in my shoulder!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x018CF5>

<Label 0x018CA1>
<ClearText><Random 0x1517><If 0x1517 is less than B4 goto 0x018CB0><Goto 0x018E0C>

<Label 0x018CB0>
<If 0x1517 is less than 5A goto 0x018CBC><Goto 0x018E86>

<Label 0x018CBC>
<PlaySound 14> No sooner than I move out of the way, does the sword fly across where I was standing!
<Waitpad>"Damn that was close!" Kid remarks.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x018CF5>

<Label 0x018CF5>
<cleartext> All of a sudden, Kid quickly comes out from behind, darting towards the skeleton with a furious kick!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad>"Yeah! All right!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> It's a direct hit! The skeleton's skull flies off its spine, exploding at the far wall!
<PlaySound 1C><waitpad> The rest of the skeleton teeters for a second or two before falling to the ground!
<playsound 33><waitpad> We've done it!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0A><ClearBG><cleartext><Call 0x000DB7>"Well, looks like that's that, eh mate?"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x018D8A>

<Label 0x018D8A>
<ClearText>"What was up with you back there!?" Kid shouts at Magil, her eyes firmly planted on him. <PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF>"Snap out of it already!"
<waitpad> Magil blinks a few times, dazed. He seems to be all right now.
<waitpad><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x018E0C>
<ClearText> No! It's coming too fast!
<Waitpad>"Aaaahhh!"
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpad> The sword cuts deep into my shoulder, spewing blood almost instantly!
<Waitpad><26, 31><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x018E66><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x018E66>
 I cry out in pain, falling to my knees!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x018CF5>

<Label 0x018E86>
<ClearText> I try to dodge the oncoming blow.
<Waitpad> Dammit! I wasn't fast enough!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><26, 31><Subtract 08 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x018ED2><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x018EF2>

<Label 0x018ED2>
 I clamp my hand down on my left thigh, but the blood is spurting through too heavily!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x018CF5>

<Label 0x018EF2>
<Waitpad><ClearText>"A<Delay 01>A<Delay 01>A<Delay 02>A<Delay 02>a<Delay 03>a<Delay 03>a<Delay 04>h<Delay 04>h<Delay 04>h<Delay 04>h<Delay 04>h<Delay 04>h<Delay 04>h<Delay 04>h<Delay 05>.<Delay 05>.<Delay 05>.<Delay 07>.<Delay 0a>.<Delay 0d>."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x018F57>
<Random 0x151E><AND 0x151E with 07><If 0x151E is less than 03 goto 0x01AA9E><Goto 0x018F7D>

<Label 0x018F7D>
<ClearText> Before me, Kid comes to an abrupt stop. My knife's ready, but all I can see is darkness.
<Waitpad> Then, from up ahead, I start to hear a clattering noise. Whatever it is, it's coming closer and closer.
<Waitpad><cleartext><delay 20> Goblins...
<Waitpad> It's the sound of iron armor clanking against stone floor, I'm sure of it.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x01901F> *Try to suggest we run. 
<Choice 0x0190D3> *Grip my knife and stand ready.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01901F>
<Subtract 05 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x01902F><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x01902F>
<OR 0x151D with 40><ClearText>"Aww, quit bein' such a fraidy cat! They already know we're here, mate."
<waitpad> Her words stab into me like a rusty nail.
<Waitpad>"C'mon, let's get em!" she yells, insanely bolting down the passageway!
<waitpad> Uh... um... let me get my knife ready...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0191A0>

<Label 0x0190D3>
<Add 02 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0190E3><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x0190E3>
<ClearText> Instantly getting a taste of the situation, I grab my knife and fix my stance. Exchanging glances with Kid, she seems to be ready for anything.
<Waitpad>"Don't get ahead'a yerself, mate," she says with an ornery smile.
<Waitpad>"Okay... let's do this!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0191A0>

<Label 0x0191A0>
<PlaySong 05><ClearText><Call 0x01BE52><Delay 1C> The goblins amount to five in all. They seem more intelligent from the usual fare, probably due to some awful form of education in human torture and suffering. Each of them is as tall as Magil, but at least twice as thick.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Each of them is equipped with a morning star as well as a mace at the side. These chain-bound spiked metal balls look deadly enough from here -- I hope they aren't as skillful with those things as I think they are...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Laughing heartily at us, the one in front starts to swing its morning star over its head, taking a step towards me. What do I do now!?
<delay 0a><choice 0x01928C> *Deflect its blow with my knife! 
<Choice 0x019387> *Jump back as it swings!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01928C>
<ClearText> I raise the knife up over my head just as the goblin lashes its weapon down at me!
<Waitpad><14, 8B, 89, 19, 8B, C0, 80><If 0x151E doesn't equal 80 goto 0x0192DF> The knife is effortlessly smacked out of my hand as the grisly iron ball comes smashing down onto my head!
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpad> A deep red washes over my eyes, as I drop to the floor in a daze...
<Waitpad><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x0192DB>
<Goto 0x019312>

<Label 0x0192DF>
 But, nothing happens! I look up, only to see the goblin had swung its morning star too hard, flying out of its hand and landing clear behind me! It looks at me and quickly backs away, hoping I won't take advantage of the situation.
<waitpad> Heh...
<OR 0x151C with 80>

<Label 0x019312>
<Waitpad><ClearText> Magil's thundering voice booms out, "Serge! Take its weapon! Now!"
<delay 0a><choice 0x01940B> *Go for it! 
<Choice 0x019496> *Look to Kid.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x019387>
<ClearText> Not a single moment after I leap back, the iron ball smashes into the stone floor!
<playsound 2c><Waitpad> I can't rely on this little knife to parry those huge morning stars. There's no way I'll survive, fighting like that!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x019560> *Run my knife into the goblin's chest! 
<Choice 0x019665> *Quickly slash at its hand!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01940B>
<ClearText> I dash over to where the huge ball and chain was dropped and snatch it up, careful not to take my eyes off the enemy. I start swinging it above me, faster and faster...
<waitpad> The iron ball rams into the goblin's helmet with a dull echo!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> The creature falls to the ground instantly. I don't think it's going to be getting up any time soon.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x019496> *See if Kid needs any help. 
<Choice 0x019744> *See if Magil needs any help.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x019496>
<OR 0x151D with 80><ClearText> Kid's currently busy with two goblins of her own. Nimbly evading both their attacks, she escapes from between them, forcing them to smash into one another!
<Waitpad> There's no doubt, `Float Like a Butterfly, Sting Like a Bee'<delay 03> are words she lives by, here in the thick of combat. Without a single problem handling herself, Kid's truly a natural.
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, the two goblins are down but definitely not out. Taking advantage of the situation, I dash over and snatch a morning star one of the goblins dropped, joining the brawl.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01A24D>

<Label 0x019560>
<ClearText> Before I can let this opportunity pass me by, I instantly lunge my razor-sharp blade straight into the goblin!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89> I plant the knife deep within its chest.
<waitpad> ......
<waitpad> Pulling it out after a few seconds, a rugged hand suddenly seizes my arm.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Glancing up, the hideous, wretched face of an adrenaline-filled goblin stares down at me, waiting to deliver its revenge upon me. Its glistening saliva drips down from its huge fangs, mere inches from my face.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x01984C> *"Help! Kid!!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x01987B> *"Help! Magil!!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0199CC> *Punch it in the face! 
<Choice 0x019A6B> *Kick it where the sun don't shine!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x019665>
<ClearText> Seizing the opportunity to score a hit against unprotected flesh, I slash at the goblin's extended hand before it has a chance to recoil its weapon.
<waitpad> I tear open a huge gash, revealing muscles and tendons!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><ClearText> Recoiling its violently bleeding hand, in a shock of hysteria it lets go of its morning star!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x019E38> *Lunge my knife into the goblin, aiming for its heart! 
<Choice 0x019F70> *Throw my knife at it while trying to recover the dropped morning star! 
<Choice 0x01A188> *Hurl my knife at it, snatching the mace dangling at its hip!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x019744>
<ClearText> Magil, faced with two goblins of his own, has already managed to reduce one to a bloody mess on the floor. The remaining beast looks as though it's already received its share of dents and bruises as well.
<Waitpad><ClearText><14, 8B, 89, 19, 8B, C0, 40><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01980D> Even with no physical weapons of any kind, Magil looks as though he's having no trouble pulverizing the enemy with hand-to-hand tactics.
<OR 0x151C with 40>

<Label 0x01980D>
<Waitpad><cleartext> Before I can even come over to help, Magil appears to have taken care of things. He's managed to put an effective sleeper hold on his foe, forcing it to its knees as its face slowly turns a deep shade of purple.
<waitpad> Kid dashes over, delivering the final blow -- a slit across the jugular.
<Waitpad> I take a deep breath, relieved that we're okay. However, it's not over yet.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x019496>

<Label 0x01984C>
<ClearText>"What do you think you're doing!?" it yells at the top of its lungs, drowning out my calls for help.
<Waitpad><OR 0x151D with 40><Goto 0x019AE9>

<Label 0x01987B>
<Random 0x151E><AND 0x151E with 07><If 0x151E is less than 03 goto 0x01988D><Goto 0x019917>

<Label 0x01988D>
<ClearText> Just as I call out, something appears to hit the goblin on the back of the head, instantly knocking it out!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> It falls forward after teetering for a moment, painfully sandwiching me between its huge carcass and the wall behind me!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><Subtract 05 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x019913><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x019913>
<Goto 0x01A4B0>

<Label 0x019917>
<ClearText> All of a sudden, smoke starts to arise from behind the goblin. I look over the thing's shoulder, and see Magil's sent a volley of fireballs streaking straight at it!
<Waitpad> Roaring in a terrible bloodcurdling voice, it grips me even tighter as it whips around, trying desperately to put itself out!
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpad> Before I can help it, a frenzy of sparks fly around through the air, igniting my shirt as well!
<Waitpad><Subtract 05 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0199C8><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x0199C8>
<Goto 0x01A548>

<Label 0x0199CC>
<ClearText> I give thing a good smack or two upside the head. Unfazed, I resort to poking it in the eyes.
<waitpad> Oh man, it did not like that at all.
<waitpad> However, for the time being, I'm freed of its grip. I leap away from the thing and ready my knife.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x019E38> *Lunge my knife into the goblin, aiming for its heart. 
<Choice 0x01A188> *Throw my knife at it while trying to steal the mace hanging at its hip.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x019A6B>
<ClearText> Hey, in love and war, anything's fair. I kick upwards with all my rage!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0> Hah! Its knees buckle, yelping in a voice I didn't know a goblin could even make!
<waitpad> However, it recovers quickly. My foot, on the other hand, isn't so lucky! As it starts to painfully throb, the goblin fixes its tight grip on my neck. I can't take much more of this...
<Waitpad><cleartext><Subtract 02 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x019AE5><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x019AE5>
<Goto 0x019AE9>

<Label 0x019AE9>
<ClearText> The ferocious goblin picks me up by the neck, ramming me up against the wall!
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpaD> I've had the wind completely knocked out of me, but the goblin doesn't let up! It continues to punch me in the gut as I hang there, utterly defenseless!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad> It releases me, laughing down at me as I lay there on the stone floor, trying to catch my breath.
<Waitpad><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x019B72><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x019B72>
<ClearText>"Hey, ya bastard!" I hear Kid yell all of a sudden.
<Waitpad><14, 8B, 8A, 19, 8B, C0, 40><If 0x151E doesn't equal 40 goto 0x019BB2><Goto 0x019CE6>

<Label 0x019BB2>
<ClearText> I scamper back to my feet during the time she's bought for me.
<Waitpad> However, the goblin doesn't fall for the distraction. I've barely caught my breath when it starts to come at me again.
<Waitpad> It moves in for a lunging punch, but with a lucky burst of power, I quickly duck.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Its fist connects with nothing but air. I slip through its line of sight, avoiding the blow. Coming up behind it, I nimbly snatch away the mace that was dangling at its hip!
<Waitpad> Before it knows what's going on, I've raised the mace high above my head and sent it flying down through the air!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89> Ugh... not a pretty sight. What's left of the goblin falls to the floor.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01A5EB>

<Label 0x019CE6>
<ClearText> However, the goblin doesn't fall for the distraction.
<waitpad> Trapped here, I try calling out for Kid, but I can't seem to shout... All that comes out are mere whispers.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Just as thoughts of my own mortality start to run through my mind, I see a shadow whisk around.
<Waitpad> The next moment, a knife comes darting out from nowhere, striking the goblin directly between the eyes!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> As the goblin falls to the ground, the shadow materializes into a solid figure.
<waitpad> Magil...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01A691>

<Label 0x019E38>
<ClearText> The knife's edge disappears into the goblin's chest.
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> The goblin looks down, but then looks back up towards me a moment later, infuriated. It picks me up with both hands, sending me flying through the air!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x019EAB><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x019EAB>
<ClearText> I crash into a wall but try to instantly pick myself up, my adrenaline acting on reflex due to the weight of my situation.
<waitpad> Blood is rushing out of the goblin's gaping wound. It's in a lot of pain, but... these things just never seem to die...
<waitpad> Fear starts to run through my body as the hideous, bleeding thing starts to take a step towards me. I've got no weapon left, and I'm no match for this thing, toe to toe...
<Waitpad><ClearText> But then, it stumbles. And then again.
<waitpad> Its whole body starts to tremble, before falling to the floor moments later!
<Waitpad><OR 0x151D with 20><Goto 0x01A5EB>

<Label 0x019F70>
<ClearText> I quickly flash my hand out, throwing my knife at its face!
<waitpad> As it dodges the oncoming blade, I quickly dive to the floor to retrieve the dropped morning star. Once I have it, I scurry away from the beast as fast as I can.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The goblin turns towards me, instantly realizing what just happened, angrier than ever.
<Waitpad> Gulp...
<waitpad> Aiming again for its face, I start to swing the heavy chain around and around.
<waitpad> But... there's not enough time to get this thing going! The goblin pounces on me, grabbing its weapon back! It then starts to strangle me with the chain!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><ClearText> Arrgghhh!
<waitpad> I pull at the chain, but the goblin's got it wrapped around me much too tightly!!
<waitpad> Help!!
<Waitpad><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01A0A3><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x01A0A3>
<ClearText> Suddenly, Magil walks up, directly in front of us.
<waitpad>"Lower your weapon," he orders.
<waitpad> Grunting a short laugh, the goblin tosses me aside to take care of the seemingly frail, unarmed man. It rushes Magil, reaching for the mace dangling at its hip.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Just as it this happens, Magil instantly throws a high kick towards the goblin's face!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> The mace flies into the air as the goblin falls flat on its back!
<waitpad> Magil nimbly catches the mace. He swings it descent downwards, crushing the goblin's head only a split second later!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> This entire incident takes only a few seconds, unfolding right before my eyes...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01A75E>

<Label 0x01A188>
<ClearText> I throw the knife as hard as I can, but the goblin easily knocks it out of the way with the back of its massive hand!
<waitpad> However, with the diversion I've bought for myself, I quickly scramble around behind it, snatching its mace!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Realizing something's going on, the goblin instantly turns around, where it meets a solid blow from my mace...
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> Ughh... what's left of the goblin falls to the floor, lifeless.
<Waitpad><OR 0x151D with 20><Goto 0x01A5EB>

<Label 0x01A24D>
<ClearText> Coming up from behind, I take aim. The goblin hasn't taken notice of me yet. It's now or never...!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x01A293> *Stab it in the back. 
<Choice 0x01A3D5> *Swing the morning star at it.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01A293>
<ClearText> I arc my knife high over my head and bring it down with a rush of power.
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> The goblin lets out a deafening roar as it instantly starts to scurry about, trying to get the deeply implanted blade out of its back.
<Waitpad> Suddenly it whips around, staring down at me with a disgusting snarl. As we lock eyes, I realize I should have run when I had the chance.
<Waitpad><cleartext> But then, suddenly, something comes swinging down, knocking it over the head!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> As it falls to the ground, behind it I see the tall figure of Magil. I let out a sigh of relief as I take the knife out of the goblin's back.
<waitpad> However, just as I look up, I realize another goblin's taken notice of me and started to come my way, eager to settle the score!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01A83B>

<Label 0x01A3D5>
<ClearText> With all my might, I swing the morning star downwards.
<Waitpad> The heavy, spiked iron ball strikes the center of the goblin's helmet with a loud clank!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><ClearText> Its cold, dangerous eyes suddenly take on a hazy look as it stumbles and falls.
<waitpad> I look down upon the lifeless mass, staring into the whites of its motionless eyes.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01A926>

<Label 0x01A4B0>
<Call 0x01BE69> Get it off me... please... I'm starting... to... fade...
<waitpad> The next thing I notice is what looks like Magil, shoving the thing with an incredible burst of strength. He grunts from behind his mask as he shoves the monstrous goblin off of me!
<Waitpad> I lay there, trying to catch my breath.
<waitpad>"Get up! Quick, get up, mate!" I hear Kid say, while slapping my face.
<waitpad> Grabbing my collar, she mercilessly returns me to my feet.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01A548>
<Call 0x000DA0> Aaahh!!
<waitpad> I stop, drop, and roll, trying desperately to put myself out.
<Waitpad>"Hey! Whaddaya think yer doin down there!?" Kid shouts.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I'm just trying to..."
<waitpad>"Get up and fight! There's no time for that!"
<Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01A5EB>
<Add 05 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x01A5FB><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x01A5FB>
<Call 0x01BE69><14, 8B, 8A, 19, 8B, C0, 20><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01A627> I'm starting to lose it... Exhausted, I drop the mace, and barely keep myself from falling to the floor.
<waitpad>

<Label 0x01A627>
 Looking around at the victory before me, I let out a sigh of relief.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"So ya got one, eh mate? That showed 'im!"
<waitpad> I want to say something back, but I'm so tired, I just stand there, ready for anything.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01A691>
<Call 0x01BE69> Kid tugs at my arm, helping me to my feet. I look up to her with a thankful look, but I'm met with nothing but a scowl.
<Waitpad>"Serge, we gotta rely on each other!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Hearing her words, I nod solemnly before returning to the fight.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01A75E>
<Call 0x01BE69><volume a0, 00>"Hey!" Kid shouts out. "Next time you decide to do somethin' like that, be sure ya can handle what yer getting yerself into!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Really, Kid! What great battle strategies. Just a little positive encouragement once in a while wouldn't help...
<waitpad> I wish I had the guts to talk to her like that... But, I remember if I did, I'd probably just end up having one more bloodthirsty beast after me...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01A83B>
<Add 05 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x01A84B><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x01A84B>
<Call 0x01BE69> I let out a sigh of relief, saying "Magil, thank y..."
<delay 08> But before I can finish, Kid comes up and elbows me in the stomach!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><Subtract 0F from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01A89D><Set 0x1514 to 01>

<Label 0x01A89D>
<ClearText>"What the... You're more of a danger to us than you are to them, Kid!"
<Waitpad>"Aw, c'mon, mate! It was only a lil love tap. How's about a nice kiss to make it all better?"
<Waitpad>"No way!" I shout, grimacing.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01A926>
<Add 0A to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x01A936><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x01A936>
<Call 0x01BE69>"You okay?" I ask Kid. However, she says nothing.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Cleaning the blood off her blade, she walks over towards me, with a frightening look on her face...
<Waitpad> She glances down at the heavy iron ball dangling from my hand, and says "Well, somebody had to do it."
<waitpad><cleartext> And so, looking back up into my eyes...
<Waitpad>"Serge, ya need to learn how to pick yer fights. You don't have any experience with a morning star... Yer lucky it wasn't yer head bashed in."
<waitpad> I was sure she was going to yell at me for something, but for some reason, she didn't this time.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Don't get too excited, yer not all that. But... good job, mate," she says, pressing her soft, warm lips against my cheek.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01AA9E>
<ClearText> Suddenly, Kid comes to a stop.
<Waitpad>"Somethin' ain't right..."
<waitpad> Hearing this, I immediately unsheathe my knife. I try to look ahead and behind, but all I can see is darkness.
<Waitpad> Wait, what was that? Up ahead, it looked like part of the wall moved! Yeah, right there -- one of the square tiles is moving right in front of my eyes!
<waitpad> Wait a second, that's not a tile at all... it's armor!
<Waitpad><Cleartext>"Hey over there, Mister G-<delay 03>o-<delay 03>b-<delay 03>l-<delay 03>i-<delay 03>n!!" Kid shouts. Come on, Kid... It looks awfully big...
<waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x01BE52><Delay 1E> Having been discovered, the massive goblin squares off with us, coming out into full view.
<waitpad> Uh oh... It's got friends.
<waitpad> Two sets of footsteps behind me make me realize they amount to four in all. I keep my focus on the two in front of me, while Magil turns to face the rear.
<Waitpad> How could things so large camouflage themselves so well...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Readying my knife, I set my sight on the goblins before me. They've certainly got us in a pinch -- they've already blocked off all the escape routes in this tight corridor. We'll have to fight our way out of this one!
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 05> Magil begins to confront the rear pack while Kid rushes the front two, knife in hand.
<Waitpad> I rush out with her, hurling myself into action!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01AC52>

<Label 0x01AC52>
<ClearText> One of the goblins whips its morning star out, swinging its spiked iron ball down at me!
<waitpad> Whoa!! I nearly miss it, leaping to the side at the last possible second! It comes crashing down, shattering the stone floor under it into a cloud of dust!
<playsound 2c><Waitpad><cleartext> Beside me, Kid leaps nimbly into the air, dodging a close attack! The scene here has been reduced to a barrage of weapons and chains flying through the air, thick with the dusty haze of shattered stone flooring!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Looking over towards Kid, a glimmer of light flashes before me.<call 0x000d89><delay 0a> And there, in front of us, a knife has suddenly been implanted deep into a goblin's left eye!
<Waitpad> Writhing in pain, the goblin hits the ground. I try not to look at it, keeping myself focused on the fight.
<Waitpad> There's no doubt, `Float Like a Butterfly, Sting Like a Bee'<delay 03> are words she lives by, here in the thick of combat. Without a single problem handling herself, Kid's truly a natural.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Another one of the goblins draws near soon after, already wildly swinging its morning star above its head!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x01AD6C> *Do what Kid would do! 
<Choice 0x01B02B> *Leap back!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01AD6C>
<ClearText> That's right! If Kid can do it, so can I!
<waitpad> On the verge of its attack, I confront the goblin with my knife ready!
<waitpad> It hurls its morning star down at me! I leap to the side, thinking to myself it's now or never!
<Waitpad><Random 0x151E><AND 0x151E with 01><If 0x151E doesn't equal 01 goto 0x01ADD8><Goto 0x01ADDC>

<Label 0x01ADD8>
<Goto 0x01AF29>

<Label 0x01ADDC>
<ClearText> The goblin is busy trying to bring its morning star out of the rubble, leaving me wide open for my attack.
<waitpad> I hurl the knife at it as hard as I can!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> All right! I did it! A wave of adrenaline runs through my body as I watch the goblin scream in agony, with my knife sticking out of its right eye!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Wow, mate... Did you do that!?"
<waitpad> Kid's praise rings through me, filling me with a rush of power.
<Waitpad><Add 05 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x01AED2><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x01AED2>
<ClearText>"Now quit standin' around! We're fightin' here!!"
<waitpad> Dammit, I was just...
<delay 08>"Get over here and fight, mate!"
<waitpad> She's right. I leap back into the frenzy, just as the goblin painfully pulls the knife out of its eye and tosses it aside.
<waitpad> In a desperate attempt to get my weapon back I make a dive for the knife over in the far corner. But now, the goblin's all but cornered me off!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01B947>

<Label 0x01AF29>
<ClearText> Dammit! Just as I go to make my move, I slip and fall flat on my back!
<call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><Subtract 05 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01AF6A><Set 0x1514 to 00>

<Label 0x01AF6A>
 I see the goblin stand over me, laughing to itself as it raises its morning star overhead.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I've got to do something fast!
<waitpad> Thinking a mile a minute, I somehow remember my knife, and ram it into the goblin's shin!
<Call 0x000D89><Subtract 05 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x01AFF1><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x01AFF1>
<delay 0a><Choice 0x01B0A4> *Get up and stab it in the heart! 
<Choice 0x01B17D> *Scamper away!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01B02B>
<ClearText> Despite how much I know I need to be strong right now, I can't help but leap back a couple feet out of fear.
<waitpad> Laughing, the goblin before me advances a step and instantly closes the gap I had created.
<waitpad> Come on, I can't keep fighting like this! I've got to stand my ground!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01B254>

<Label 0x01B0A4>
<ClearText> While the goblin tends to its painfully wounded ankle, I seize the opportunity and leap up with my knife!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89> Urrghhh...
<waitpad> I've planted the knife deep within the thing's chest. Thick blood pours out in spurts. However, at the same time, I feel a tremendous thud on the top of my head!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad> Delirious, I stumble to the ground, barely able to notice the goblin before me collapsing as well.
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01B179><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x01B179>
<Goto 0x01BBD5>

<Label 0x01B17D>
<ClearText> Not wasting a single moment, I scurry away on my hands and knees.
<Waitpad> Dammit! Shards from the busted stone floor are stabbing into my hands and knees!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><Subtract 05 from 0x1514>
<ClearText><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01B230> Stopping for a second to remove the painful rock splinters, I find myself once again at the feet of another vicious goblin!
<waitpad> Before I have time to react, it brings its mace down onto my leg, then my hand, then...
<Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x01B230>
 I quickly get back up once I'm at a safe distance, pulling the bloodied shards out of my skin.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01B63F>

<Label 0x01B254>
<ClearText> The goblin starts to rush me, swinging its spiked iron ball over its head. I've got to do something, and there's nowhere to run!
<delay 0a><choice 0x01B2D6> *Stand ready, stabbing it as it comes near, and then sneak around behind it, trying to snatch its mace. 
<Choice 0x01B3BC> *Dodge its attack, kick it in the gut while it's off guard, and try to stab it if I can find a good shot.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01B2D6>
<ClearText> I take aim as the goblin comes near, wary of the split-second action I'm going to have to perform.
<waitpad> I fling my knife into the air just as the goblin thinks he has me...!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89> Oh, gross... I look up and see the goblin's left eye, bleeding profusely thanks to my dagger sticking out of it.
<waitpad> The goblin takes a second to remove the knife from its eye socket and toss it away.
<waitpad> Seizing the opportunity, I scramble around behind the madly writhing beast, and snatch away the mace that was dangling at its side.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The goblin snaps around, aware of what's going on. I swing the mace almost immediately, aiming for its face!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Random 0x151E><AND 0x151E with 01><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01B363><Call 0x01BE80><Goto 0x01BCC4>

<Label 0x01B363>
 The goblin laughs as it catches my mace in his powerful, bare hand.
<Waitpad> Dammit...!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x01BA69 after 0x00B4ms><Choice 0x01B456> *Let go of the mace! 
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01B3BC>
<ClearText> Leaping out of the way at the last possible second, I avoid the goblin's charge. Once it's past me, I throw a kick into its mid-section.
<call 0x000d89><waitpad> However, it hardly stuns the adrenalized warmonger! I barely have time to retract my leg before it has time to grab me and pull me in!
<waitpad> It's still coming at me, fists flying in full rage!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x01BB47 after 0x00B4ms><Choice 0x01B5B8> *Duck!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01B456>
<ClearText> I instantly let go of the mace, just as the goblin yanks it from me with incredible power. I jump back as it fixes its grip on the deadly weapon.
<Waitpad> With the mace madly raised over its head, the goblin starts to charge me!
<waitpad> Dammit! Where's my knife!? I've got no more weapons on me!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Here, use this!" I suddenly hear, before a knife is tossed into my field of vision!
<waitpad> Nimbly catching it, without a moment to lose I thrust it into the goblin!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> The mace drops to the ground before my eyes, as the pulverized goblin slowly backs away in shock.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Serge, duck!"
<waitpad> Instantly ducking, I look up and from overhead. A huge rock comes flying through the air towards the goblin, just inches above my head!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><ClearText> It hits the goblin square in the face, and send the towering beast flat on his back. I look up, relieved to see Kid standing over me.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BCF4>

<Label 0x01B5B8>
<ClearText> I duck, and not a moment too soon! Looking above me, I see its arm swing out, that most definitely could have given me a death blow!
<waitpad> Ah! My knife! It's here on the ground, where the goblin had tossed it! In a split-second decision, I reach down and grab it!
<waitpad> Then, fixing my grip, I ram it deep into the goblin's belly!
<call 0x000d89><Waitpad> The goblin's legs start to give way as it lets out a painful moan. It falls backwards, clenching its belly, before hitting the floor with a ground-shaking thud!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BCC4>

<Label 0x01B63F>
<ClearText> Picking its mace up off the floor, the ferocious goblin starts to charge me, screaming at the top of its lungs!
<delay 0a><choice 0x01B6CB> *Hurl my knife at it, and while it's distracted, snatch the morning star! 
<Choice 0x01B3BC> *Aim to kick it in the face, and while it's stunned, ram my knife into its heart!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01B6CB>
<ClearText> I chuck my knife at the goblin, sending it spinning through the air, aimed directly for its face.
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> Oh, gross... The knife's been planted deep into the goblin's right eye. It growls in pain, desperately trying to remove the deadly thing from its skull.
<waitpad> Seeing an opportunity, I quickly bolt towards the towering beast, slipping by its side and snatching the dropped morning star.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The goblin turns its bloody head towards me as it pulls the dagger out of its eye, tossing the puny weapon aside. Aiming for its face again, I swing the heavy ball and chain outwards!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Random 0x151E><AND 0x151E with 03><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01B785><Call 0x000D89> A horrible sound echoes throughout the corridor as the weapon connects with flesh and bone. With its skull utterly shattered, the hulking beast falls to the floor, dead.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BCC4>

<Label 0x01B785>
 However, the weapon doesn't have enough momentum to make even a slight impact on the hulking goblin!
<waitpad> The goblin catches the chain in midair, rendering my attack utterly useless. It laughs down at me with its bloody, smelly face.
<delay 0a><Goto 0x01BA69 after 0x00B4ms><Choice 0x01B7ED> *Drop the morning star!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01B7ED>
<ClearText> I instantly let go of the morning star, just as the goblin yanks it from me with incredible power. I jump back as it fixes its grip on the deadly weapon.
<Waitpad> With the morning star madly raised over its head, the goblin starts to charge me!
<waitpad> Dammit! Where's my knife!? I've got no more weapons on me!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Here, use this!" I suddenly hear, before a knife is tossed into my field of vision!
<waitpad> Nimbly catching it, without a moment to lose I thrust it into the goblin!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> The mace drops to the ground before my eyes, as the pulverized goblin slowly backs away in shock.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Serge, duck!"
<waitpad> Instantly ducking, I look up and from overhead. A huge rock comes flying through the air towards the goblin, just inches above my head!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><ClearText> It hits the goblin square in the face, and send the towering beast flat on his back. I look up, relieved to see Kid standing over me.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BCF4>

<Label 0x01B947>
<ClearText> Picking the ball and chain up off the floor, the ferocious goblin starts to charge me, screaming at the top of its lungs!
<delay 0a><choice 0x01B9CC> *Hurl my knife at it, and while it's distracted, snatch its mace! 
<Choice 0x01B3BC> *Aim to kick it in the face, and while it's stunned, ram my knife into its heart!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01B9CC>
<ClearText> I chuck my knife at the goblin, sending it spinning through the air, aimed directly for its face.
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> Oh, gross... The knife's been planted deep into the goblin's left eye. It growls in pain, desperately trying to remove the thing from its skull.
<waitpad> Seeing an opportunity, I quickly bolt towards the towering beast, slipping by its side and snatching its mace!
<Waitpad><ClearText> The goblin turns its bloody head towards me as it pulls the dagger out of its eye, tossing the puny weapon aside. Aiming for its face again, I swing the heavy weapon outward!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89><Call 0x01BE80><Goto 0x01BCC4>

<Label 0x01BA69>
<ClearText><Call 0x000DA0> The goblin yanks at the morning star, jerking my body from side to side! It's a game of deadly tug of war, and I seem to be losing!
<waitpad> The goblin reels me in, and sends me flying into a nearby wall! I crash into the wall with a thud, and my wind is knocked out. I collapse to the floor, laying there in a daze...
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01BAE0><Set 0x1514 to 00> Lying there, barely conscious, I seem to be able to make out the goblin towering over me, but after that...
<Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x01BAE0>
 Lying there, barely conscious, I grasp my stomach, unable to breathe! And the goblin's still coming at me! What am I going to do!?
<Waitpad><ClearText> But then, suddenly, the goblin bursts into flames!
<waitpad> As it madly tramples around, I look over behind where it was, and see Magil standing there, ready for anything.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BD46>

<Label 0x01BB47>
<ClearText> The goblin grabs at me, seizing me by the shirt! It headbutts me, and throws me down on the floor like a ragdoll!
<call 0x000da0><waitpad> It stands over me, laughing heartily. What am I going to do!?
<Waitpad><ClearText> Suddenly, the goblin bursts into flames!
<waitpad> As it madly tramples around, I look over behind where it was, and see Magil standing there, ready for anything.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BD46>

<Label 0x01BBD5>
<ClearText><Call 0x01BE69><volume 90, 00> Suddenly, I see stars flash all around me. And then again. And again!
<Waitpad>"Serge! Wake up! C'mon, this ain't no time for daydreamin'!" Kid says, slapping me on the cheeks.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Urrghhh... All right! Quit slapping me!"
<Waitpad>"What!? You oughta be grateful for gettin' an awakening by a fair maiden like me!"
<Waitpad> Fair maiden!? Please...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01BCC4>
<ClearText><Call 0x01BE69> That seems to be the last of them. Looking around, I straighten my shirt, and let out a deep breath.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01BCF4>
<ClearText><Call 0x01BE69> Boy, that was something...
<waitpad> As I stare into the hollow eyes of the deceased goblins, I can hardly believe we managed to finish them all.
<Waitpad> I let out a deep breath, and try to relax.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01BD46>
<ClearText><Call 0x01BE69>"Thanks, Magil," I say, trying to swallow my pains.
<Waitpad>"Hey, all in a day's work," Kid says, a little too confidently.
<Waitpad>I can tell she means to ask me if I have any injuries, but it's just her way, to be like that.
<waitpad> Girls...
<waitpad> Well, to be fair, both guys and girls can be like that, sometimes. In any case, it's usually in one ear, out the other when talking about Kid.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01BE43>

<Label 0x01BE43>
<Set 0x151D to 00><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x01BE52>
<FadeOut 70, 00><26, 01><0A, 1B><04, 47, 00><04, 48, 01><04, 49, 02><04, 4A, 03><FadeIn 70, 64><Return>

<Label 0x01BE69>
<FadeOut F0, 3C><ClearText><ClearBG><04, FF, 00><04, FF, 01><04, FF, 02><04, FF, 03><FadeIn F0, 00><Delay 08><Return>

<Label 0x01BE80>
 A horrible sound echoes throughout the corridor as the goblin's face is turned into a putrid mess. With its skull utterly shattered, the hulking beast falls to the floor, dead.
<Waitpad><Return>

<Label 0x01BEAE>
<ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 01><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01BEC5><Goto 0x01BEC9><Goto 0x01BEC9>

<Label 0x01BEC5>
<Goto 0x01BFC7>

<Label 0x01BEC9>
<cleartext><27, 05> Suddenly, Kid stops dead in her tracks. I look to her, wondering what's wrong.
<waitpad> Magil already has assumed his battle stance. I do so too, trying to see what's ahead of us.
<waitpad> Suddenly, I realize what they were triggered by -- a barely audible voice of some kind can be heard, far up ahead.
<waitpad><cleartext> Advancing a bit more, we come to the source. There, barely illuminated in the dim light, is some sort of a thin blue monster. It seems like it's been waiting for us, kneeling on the pavement as it chants to itself in a low, quiet tone.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 00><Call 0x000B6E><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 14> Its long, bony fingers seem to be etching something on the floor before it.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It's a Demon Warlock!"
<Waitpad><PlaySong 05> I unsheathe my knife, getting ready to face off with the vile monster!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x01CAC1 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x01CB6E> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x01CD11> *Size it up! 
<Choice 0x01D625> *Run!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01BFC7>
<ClearText><FadeIn 70, 0A> As we continue through the passageway, everything's going normal, until...
<waitpad> Suddenly, something drops onto my hood.
<Waitpad><27, 05> I run my fingers through it, and manage to peel off a cold, slimy object.
<Waitpad> I look up at the ceiling. There's thousands of the disgusting little black things up there!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"L... leeches!!"
<Waitpad>"Aaaahhh!!"
<waitpad><cleartext> The slimy, bloodsucking animals continue to fall onto our bodies as we panic more and more! We desperately try to shake them off, but it's hopeless -- there's too many of them!
<Waitpad><ClearText> They crowd around us, homing in on our presence from every direction -- from the ceiling, the walls, the floor... everywhere!
<Waitpad>"We've got to turn around!"
<Waitpad> However, looking back the way we came, a countless number have started to crowd around the passage back behind us as well, blocking our only exit!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"We've gotta get out of here!" Kid yells!
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x01C1AD> *Make a run for it! 
<Choice 0x01C44A> *Carefully tiptoe out of here.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01C1AD>
<FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000D02><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 14> I can't stand this any more! I've got to get out of here now!! I start to bolt down the slimy, leech-filled corridor as fast as I can!
<Waitpad> As the leeches continue to rain onto us, wiggling their way down our shirts, sucking our blood with their tiny teeth, I continue to run, and run, and run! We frantically scurry down the passageway, worried for dear life!!
<Waitpad><cleartext> Squishing their damp bodies under my feet, I suddenly take a bad step and slip on one of them, sending me flat on my back!
<27, 05><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D7D><Waitpad>"Aaaahhh!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Coming up from behind, Kid doesn't seem to see me!
<waitpad>"Kid!" I yell, but it's too late! Unable to stop in time, she topples over me, falling onto the leech-covered floor too!
<PlaySound 0B><Waitpad><cleartext>"Serge!!"
<Waitpad> Standing up, we try to clean ourselves off, but it's useless! I'm barely able to get any of the bloodsuckers off before more and more begin to drop down from the ceiling onto us!
<Waitpad><ClearText> I've never been in anything half as foul as this! Never!
<waitpad>"Auughh!!"
<Waitpad> Oh no, two have squirmed into my mouth! They wiggle around violently as they latch themselves onto my tongue! Ack!!
<waitpad> I spit the mouthful out and suppress the urge to open my mouth and scream again, despite the sharp pain now in my mouth from the cuts they've left!
<Waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, something strange happens. The leeches all simultaneously begin to squirm out from my clothes, hair, and skin, heading back away from us. They travel a few feet down the corridor, and there begin to accumulate into some sort of mass.
<waitpad>"What the...?"
<Waitpad> As the last few leeches make their way over to the mass, it starts to form into a humanoid shape. The figure solidifies moments later into some sort of a blue monster, holding a huge scythe!
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 05><FadeOut 50, 0A><24, CF, 01><ClearBG><Call 0x000B6E><FadeIn 50, 1E><Delay 0A><Subtract 14 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is greater than 00 goto 0x01C400><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x01C400>
 The polished scythe suddenly comes arcing through the air, aimed straight for me!
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x01C734 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x01C863> *Duck! 
<Choice 0x01C89C> *Parry!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01C44A>
<ClearText><27, 06> I take a deep breath, reminding myself I can't lose my cool now. Kid would never respect me again If I did...
<waitpad> I start to slowly walk down the corridor, carefully placing my steps between the slimy, slithering leeches.
<Waitpad>"Serge," Kid whispers, "I don't wanna do this... I don't wanna be here..."
<Waitpad> .........
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Come on Kid, hop on," I say, bending over. She eagerly leaps onto my back.
<Waitpad> Urgh... She's a little heavier than I thought...
<Waitpad><ClearText> I take a few steps, getting used to the weight. However, suddenly Kid starts screaming.
<waitpad>"They're all over me! Get me outta here!!"
<Waitpad>"Kid, I'm going to fall over if you keep squirming around like that!"
<waitpad>"I can't help it! Go faster!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> I pick up the pace a bit.
<waitpad> Jogging along, my arms are starting to burn. Then, suddenly, I start to lose my grip on Kid!
<Waitpad><27, 05>"Aaaahhhh!!" Kid shrieks, falling to the leech-infested ground!
<PlaySound 0B><Waitpad><delay 10><cleartext> Oh man... They're all over her. She's covered with thick, green slime, as well as a frightening number of leeches, squirming and crawling all over her body. She's barely visible underneath all the muck.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Get em offa me!!" she yells, spitting out leeches as she scrambles back up onto me.
<waitpad> Petrified, she clings tightly to me, strangling my neck!
<Waitpad>"Can't... breathe...!"
<waitpad> The leeches continue to fester their way underneath our clothes, in our hair, on our faces, until...
<waitpad><cleartext> All of a sudden, the leeches start to recede! They simultaneously drop out of her hair and from underneath her clothes, and start to wiggle and crawl over to a few feet ahead of us, and there begin to accumulate into some sort of mass!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Halt!" Magil shouts!
<Waitpad> He points towards the mass, and suddenly a blazing stream of fire comes streaking out from his fingertips!
<PlaySound 10><Waitpad><ClearText> The mass erupts into flames!
<waitpad> However, a strange sort of low, garbled voice starts to echo out from the burning mess.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 00> Moments later, some sort of monster comes springing out of the charred pile of leeches, armed with a huge scythe!
<PlaySong 05><FadeOut 50, 0A><24, CF, 01><ClearBG><Call 0x000B6E><FadeIn 50, 1E><waitpad><Add 14 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x01C708><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x01C708>
 It swings its scythe out, aimed directly for me!
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x01C734 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x01C863> *Duck! 
<Choice 0x01C89C> *Parry!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01C734>
<PlaySound 0D><ClearText><PlaySound 13> The razor-sharp edge skims my chest, cutting cleanly into the flesh!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><Subtract 08 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01C78B><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01C7E6>

<Label 0x01C78B>
 No more than a few feet tall, this ominous looking creature stands there, cackling at us, letting its long tongue hang out as it drools onto the floor! Its scythe is easily larger than its torso and longer than both of its arms, and from the look of things, it knows how to handle itself!
<waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, it swings its scythe out, aimed directly for me!
<Waitpad> What am I going to do!?
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x01C734 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x01C863> *Duck! 
<Choice 0x01C89C> *Parry!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01C7E6>
<ClearText><Volume 40, 00> Pain sears through my body. As my open wounds gush more and more blood, I start to feel dizzy...
<Waitpad> ...Everything... ...so cold... 
<waitpad> As I collapse to the floor, I can see Kid calling out to me, but her voice has already faded into obscurity...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 50, 3C><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x01C863>
<ClearText><PlaySound 13> I instantly duck down low, hoping to avoid the huge scythe!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01C8D1>

<Label 0x01C89C>
<ClearText> As the demon brings its huge scythe around, I bring my knife forward, hoping to parry the blow!
<PlaySound 13><Waitpad><Goto 0x01C8D1>

<Label 0x01C8D1>
<ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 01><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01C8E8><Goto 0x01C8EC><Goto 0x01C8EC>

<Label 0x01C8E8>
<Goto 0x01C9AC>

<Label 0x01C8EC>
<ClearText> All right! The scythe only manages to cut through my shirt! But still, that was too close!
<Waitpad>"Hey, stubby! Ya call that a scythe!?" Kid yells.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Come on, Kid... It looks disturbed enough already...
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x01CAC1 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x01CB6E> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x01CD11> *Size it up! 
<Choice 0x01D625> *Run!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01C9AC>
<ClearText> However, the demon easily anticipates my move, and shifts the scythe downward at the very last moment!
<PlaySound 14><waitpad><call 0x000da0>"Aaahhh!"
<waitpad> Blood spurts out of my shoulder as the demon recoils! I grasp the wound, hoping to stop the blood!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01CA1D><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01C7E6>

<Label 0x01CA1D>
 Suddenly, leeches start to come out from behind the demon, inching their way towards us once again!
<waitpad>"This can't be real...!" Kid shouts, shutting her eyes tightly!
<Waitpad> Suddenly, the leeches vanish into thin air! They mush be nothing more than hallucinations...!
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x01CAC1 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x01CB6E> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x01CD11> *Size it up! 
<Choice 0x01D625> *Run!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01CAC1>
<ClearText> Before I have time to react, the demon whips its tail around, knocking me off balance!
<Call 0x000DA0><waitpad> I hit the floor with a thud as it stands there, cackling at me!
<Waitpad><Subtract 05 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01CB06><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01C7E6>

<Label 0x01CB06>
 I get up, rubbing the bruise on my calf. A brutal smile streaks across its face as I fix the grip on my knife.
<Delay 0A><PlaySound 0C><Goto 0x01CAC1 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x01CB6E> *Attack! 
<Choice 0x01CD11> *Size it up! 
<Choice 0x01D625> *Run!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01CB6E>
<ClearText> I switch my knife around for a backhand attack as the demon grins a disgusting smile at me.
<Waitpad> The second I see it break its focus, I lash out with my weapon!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> However, my dead-on attack only seems to graze the demon's skin.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"What're ya smilin' at, freak!?" Kid yells, as it gives us a twisted, fang-laden smile.
<Waitpad> I clean the sweat off my brow, and try to keep focused.
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, I can't help but notice the demon's eyes, amidst all this. They've got such an unsettling quality to them, almost as though this thing harbors some sort of unimaginable intelligence...
<Waitpad> Wait, what am I saying!? I can't get lost in that thing's mind now. Everybody knows these things can trap your spirit with their eyes alone!
<Waitpad><cleartext> All of a sudden, the demon starts to mutter something. A second later, it bursts into flames!
<Waitpad> Within a few moments, the flames die out, and the demon is no more, gone without a trace!
<Waitpad><cleartext><volume b0, 00><FadeOut 70, 3C><Delay 0F><ClearBG><ClearText><delay 20>"...What the...?"
<Waitpad> A vague uneasiness sets in as I look around. Not a single scrap of evidence remains from that entire encounter...
<waitpad> Was any of that even real?
<Waitpad><ClearText><playsong 00><volume 00, ff><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x01CD11>
<ClearText> The demon stands there with its long tongue waving in the air, beckoning us to try and attack it.
<waitpad> Beside me, Magil has just finished chanting a spell. As he extends his arm, a furious streak of fire shoots out from his fingertips!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 10><24, 1A, 14><Delay 0A><24, 9A, 0A><Delay 0A> The blaze smashes into the demon!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 00><Call 0x000D89> With the stench of burnt flesh thick in the air, I stare down upon the demon, now revealing a twisted smirk over its sharp fangs.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Despite its agony, the demon starts to mutter something in a low, controlled tone. I look to Magil, worried this is going to turn into a battle of magic!
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x01CDE8 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x01CE99> *Prepare for its attack! 
<Choice 0x01D396> *Rush it before it has time to finish!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01CDE8>
 Unable to think of something in time, I leap aside to a nearby wall, hoping I'll make it through what it has in store for us!
<waitpad> The demon stops chanting. Soon after, the sound of a whirlwind echoes through the corridor, getting stronger and stronger as it approaches us!
<waitpad><PlaySound 1A> A violent, sandy whirlwind assaults me, tearing into my skin!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><PlaySound 00><Subtract 0E from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01CE4A><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01C7E6>

<Label 0x01CE4A>
 Rubbing out the grit out of my eyes, I open them only to see that the demon has started to chant once again, conjuring yet another deadly spell!
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x01CDE8 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x01CE99> *Prepare for its attack! 
<Choice 0x01D396> *Rush it before it has time to finish!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01CE99>
 Expecting the worst, I run to a nearby wall, squat down low, shielding my face with my arms.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Suddenly, from all around us, strange chirping sounds reverberate throughout the corridor.
<Waitpad> Looking up from behind my arms, I notice that the walls have changed -- they're now painted in flashy vibrant colors!
<Waitpad> Wait, that's not paint... It's moving!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"F... frogs...!!" Kid shrieks!
<waitpad> She's afraid of frogs, too?
<Waitpad> Upon closer inspection, I can see she indeed has something to be scared of -- these are no ordinary frogs -- the vivid yellows and reds on the frogs' skins mean they're highly poisonous! And, they're all around us!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Aaahhh! F... frogs!!" Kid yells in a painfully shrill voice as they start to jump down onto her! Half crazed, she shakes violently, casting the countless poisonous frogs off of her!
<Waitpad><ClearText> The frogs continue to come, now piling up on the ground. First they're up to my ankles, then my thighs, then my waist...!
<Waitpad><24, 3F, 28><Delay 0D><24, BF, 14><Delay 0A>"Do something, Magil!"
<Waitpad> One of his blaze spells quickly streaks down the dark passage.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 10><24, 1A, 1E><Delay 0A><24, 9A, 14><Delay 05> The gust of flame hurls towards the demon! It collides with the little blue monster with an explosion of flames!
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySound 00> Screeching in pain, the demon breaks its concentration, and the frogs suddenly vanish!
<Waitpad> Kid slowly returns to normal. I take a deep breath, relieved that's all over with.
<waitpad> However, the demon's not done yet! In a whirl, it extinguishes itself, madder than ever!
<waitpad> Then, from down the corridor, I see it start to trace something in midair. A complex design starts to radiate, and suddenly...
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Aaahhh!" I shriek, jumping back.
<Waitpad> The floor is starting to melt! We try to back out of it some more, but the floor is like taffy, keeping us from moving as it turns more and more into a molten pit!
<waitpad> The floor starts to bubble as it grows redder and redder, like a boiling saucepan!
<Waitpad><24, 15, 28><Delay 0A> A drop of sweat rolls down my cheek, evaporating with a hiss as it hits the floor!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Magil!!"
<Waitpad> Magil, trying desperately to ignore the calamity all around him, closes his eyes, and starts to chant.
<Waitpad><24, 95, 14><Delay 08> The demon continues to volley its black magic at us, now trying to incapacitate Magil with a barrage of icicles!
<waitpad> Just as the icicles are about to reach Magil, he opens his eyes and extends his hands! Shouting at the top of his lungs, a furious looking web of fire is hurled outwards, utterly dwarfing the icicles and streaking back towards the demon!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 10><24, 1C, 1E><Delay 0A><24, 9C, 0F><Delay 05><ClearText> The web wraps itself around the demon's writhing body!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 00> As the floor returns to normal, we stare at the demon, trapped within the web of fire. As its skin melts, a horrible stench begins to fill the corridor.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 50, 1E><volume f0, 00><Delay 08><ClearBG>"Pew... There's one awful lookin' pot roast for ya," says Kid.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Seeing the charred corpse keel over, I take a deep breath, hoping that's the last we'll see of this thing.
<waitpad> Ouch... My right ankle, it was singed during that last incantation. I limp a few steps, remembering to be careful of it in the future.
<Waitpad><playsong 00><volume 00, ff><ClearBG><ClearText><Subtract 12 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01D311><Set 0x1514 to 01>

<Label 0x01D311>
"You okay?" I ask Kid. She seemed more shaken back there than I think I've ever seen her before.
<Waitpad>"Huh? Me? Yeah, fine, mate. How you doin'? I thought for sure you were gonna wet yer pants back there!"
<Waitpad> Err... yeah. Now's not the time, I keep telling myself...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x01D396>
"Come on, let's get him!" I shout, already sprinting towards the vile demon. Kid comes running behind me at full speed, hard on my heels!
<Waitpad><ClearText> The demon angrily swings its scythe out at me just as I approach! <PlaySound 14>Stunned, I try to stop running in time, but the huge scythe manages to graze my cheek!
<call 0x000da0><Waitpad> Shocked, I rub off the blood dripping from my face.
<Waitpad> Kid, who's flanked the demon from the other side, starts kicking the thing with her hard boots!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad><ClearText> A terrifying shriek is given off as the thing falls to the floor!
<Waitpad>"Hah! How'd ya like some of that, eh?"
<Waitpad> The demon coughs up dark blue blood as it collapses onto the ground.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Kid..." I say, remorsefully. "This thing's no match for us... It's barely half as tall as we are."
<Waitpad> We gaze down at the creature. What should we do?
<Waitpad><ClearText> Noticing we've stopped, the demon starts to write something in the ground with its own blood.
<waitpad> Is it trying to communicate with us? Beg for mercy, maybe?
<waitpad> The symbol it's drawing suddenly takes on a strange glow. A glimmer of light appears.
<Waitpad> And then, a crack of lightning strikes upward from out of the symbol!<PlaySound 0A><24, 3F, 1E><Delay 08><24, BF, 0A><delay 04>
<Waitpad><PlaySound 00><ClearText> Kid looks at me, then looks back down towards the demon.
<waitpad> Just as it completes drawing the symbol, she pelts the demon in the belly!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad><cleartext> It's hurled through the air, violently colliding with a nearby wall! After a few moments, it moves no more.
<Waitpad> Kid scuffs out the symbol on the ground with her boot.
<waitpad>"It was him or us, mate."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 50, 1E><Delay 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x01D625>
<ClearText> I start to take a few steps back, but just as I turn to run, I see Kid fearlessly bolt towards the demon!
<waitpad> I can't run at a time like this... I wish I could be more like her!
<waitpad> I look down at my knife, hearing her shout "Yer goin' down!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> However, as I look back, I see the demon has plans of its own! In a flash it swings its razor-sharp scythe out at her!
<waitpad> Although Kid manages to avoid the attack, she's caught off balance!
<Waitpad> Before she can fix her stance, the demon whips its tail out, wrapping it around her left ankle!
<Waitpad><cleartext> Before long, Kid is dangling upside down, suspended from the demon's long blue tail!
<Waitpad>"Kid!!" I shout, running back towards them.
<Waitpad> I want to do something, but I have a feeling that scythe would make short work of me.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Nevertheless, the demon taunts me, waving Kid around like a pendulum as it cackles its disgusting laugh.
<Waitpad>"Eat this!" Kid suddenly yells, slashing her knife out at the tail!
<Call 0x000D89><waitpad> The demon screeches in pain, recoils its tail. Kid drops to the ground, and scurries away instantly!
<Waitpad> However, the demon instantly recovers, and lashes its tongue out at her!
<Waitpad><ClearText> With dreadful speed and accuracy, the long, pink tongue wraps around Kid's neck, strangling her!
<Waitpad>"H... help..." she calls out, choking in tears!
<Waitpad> At the same time, it turns towards me, and starts to conjure a spell!
<Waitpad><cleartext> From behind me, I start to hear noises. A few moments later, I see some sort of creatures scurrying along the ground, running towards us in masses.
<waitpad> They're giant rats!!
<Waitpad> Hundreds of tiny brown eyes stare up at me hungrily. Their disgusting brown teeth begin to snap at my heels, hungry for their next meal!
<Waitpad> Two of them bite into my shoes. I kick them off, but one manages to climb up my other leg as I'm doing so!
<waitpad><cleartext> I swat at them, but it's no use -- they continue to climb up on me, gnawing away at my clothes!
<Waitpad> A few of them have climbed all the way up to my shoulders now, getting up into my hood and my hair!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Ayeaaahhhh! Get them off me!!" I shout, as they make their way through my tattered clothes and begin to gnaw away at my flesh!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Amidst all this, I hear a voice. "S... ser... ge..."
<waitpad> Oh man, I forgot all about Kid! She's still being strangled by the demon's tongue!
<waitpad> And... I can't even help her!
<waitpad> Wait, no! I have to do something! I shake off the rats, and try to forget about the ones I can't. I clench my knife, walking straight up to the demon, and slash out at its tongue with all my might!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><ClearText> The demon shrieks in agony before running off in a painful frenzy!
<waitpad><FadeOut 50, 1E><Delay 08><volume ff, 00> Kid falls to her knees, gasping for breath. I run over to her, scooping her up in my arms as I tear off the shriveled remains of the tongue from around her neck.
<Waitpad><ClearBG> Throughout all this, I barely even notice the rats have mysteriously vanished without a trace, my clothes returning to normal.
<Waitpad> I hold Kid and try to ease her trembling, using my handkerchief to wipe some tears off her face.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Serge... thanks..."
<waitpad>"Hey, don't mention it," I say back to her. Wow, I saved Kid...
<Waitpad> She rises to her feet a few moments later. She's still pretty shaken up, but we're safe, at least.
<Waitpad><ClearText><playsong 00><Goto 0x014614>

<Label 0x01DC19>
<ClearText><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x01DC64><If 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x01DC60><Call 0x0039F4><Call 0x000A66><FadeIn 70, 1E><If 0x14EA doesn't equal 01 goto 0x01DC5C><Goto 0x0355A5><Goto 0x01DC60>

<Label 0x01DC5C>
<Goto 0x034159>

<Label 0x01DC60>
<Goto 0x035688>

<Label 0x01DC64>
<Call 0x0039F4><Delay 08><Call 0x000DB7><Cleartext><If 0x14B1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x01DC91><Goto 0x01DC95>

<Label 0x01DC91>
<PlaySong 11><Delay 08>

<Label 0x01DC95>
<Call 0x000A66><FadeIn 70, 14><If 0x14B1 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x01DCA8><Goto 0x01FCD0>

<Label 0x01DCA8>
<If 0x14B4 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x01DCB8><Goto 0x01F593><Goto 0x01DCBC>

<Label 0x01DCB8>
<Set 0x14B4 to 01>

<Label 0x01DCBC>
<If 0x14B3 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01DD0C><delay 10> These are apparently Lynx's quarters. No one seems to be here, however.
<Waitpad>"We're right on top of ya now, Lynx! Say yer prayers, ya bastard!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x01DD2F>

<Label 0x01DD0C>
"Still no one here, huh...."
<Waitpad> Kid's voice is greeted with nothing but silence.
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x01DD2F>
<ClearText> Looking around, it's a very dilapidated room. Furniture is thrown about in all directions, and almost nothing matches. Taking a look at the room as a whole, there's no sense of harmony whatsoever. It's very suggestive of a chaotic mind.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14A6 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01DDBE><Goto 0x01DDC2>

<Label 0x01DDBA>
<Goto 0x01DDC2>

<Label 0x01DDBE>
<Goto 0x01ED5B>

<Label 0x01DDC2>
<ClearText>"Okay, looks like we gotta search through this mess."
<Waitpad> I sift through a number of odd items adorning the room. There's a cluttered desk, a painting that's hanging unevenly on the far wall, and a pitcher on a side table, among other things.
<Waitpad><ClearText> In one corner of the room stands a tall, curious object of some sort. A scarlet cloth has been placed over it, covering it up.
<Waitpad> As I slowly reach my hand out to uncover it, Magil suddenly says, "Please avoid reckless interference."
<waitpad> Taking his advice, I return my hand to my side.
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, the cloth suddenly starts to fall off on its own.
<waitpad><Call 0x000A72><Delay 1E>"I didn't touch it, I swear!"
<Waitpad>"What, did it just leap off all by itself?" Kid asks, rolling her eyes.
<Waitpad><ClearText> A large mirror has been uncovered. Fancifully decorated, it looks to be a high-priced arabesque antique.
<Waitpad>"I got a bad feelin' about this..."
<Waitpad> Then, all of a sudden...
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 08><Call 0x000A79><Delay 2E> The reflection of the Venus statue opens its eyes, staring at us through the mirror!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 1E>"Is there something you seek?" the statue's reflection asks, in a soft womanly voice.
<Waitpad> The voice seems to be coming from the statue in front of me, but only the mirror's reflection seems to be moving.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000A79><Delay 1E>"It... it can talk!"
<Waitpad>"It is a Mirror of Whispers," Magil says, examining it closely.
<Waitpad>"What is it, though?"
<Waitpad><cleartext>"It is a looking glass that harbors a living spirit. The spirit is free to roam throughout nearby mirrors, able to see into our everyday lives. They are known to be quite wise. Is there anything you wish to ask?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Wow... a million questions come to mind...
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x01E12E> *Ask about Kid. 
<Choice 0x01E3EA> *Ask about Magil.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01E12E>
<ClearText>"What in blazes are ya askin' about me for!?" Kid shouts with a red face.
<Waitpad>"Very well," the statue's reflection says.
<waitpad> Ignoring Kid, who's slapping and pulling me, I focus on the mirror.
<Waitpad><ClearText><volume 70, 00> The reflection of the statue begins to ripple a little. <FadeOut 68, 28><Delay 0D> Gradually, the mirror fades into darkness.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DB7> Before long, the jet black surface of the mirror is filled with what looks like Regionna. One by one, shadows of trees, houses, and people materialize...
<Waitpad><Cleartext><volume 00, ff><PlaySong 04> The mirror focuses in on a young woman, surrounded by small children. The children are dirty and poorly dressed, but they're all smiling and playing happily nonetheless.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Then, abruptly, the building they're in bursts into flames. Armed troops are all around. Everyone scrambles for a way out, but...
<Waitpad><Cleartext> Against her will, the young woman is abducted. The children, however, meet a much darker fate...
<Waitpad><Cleartext> Time passes. After the fire has burnt the building to the ground, the mirror shifts focus to a small girl covered in soot, crying behind the charred remains of her home. She lets loose a bloodcurdling scream into the open sky, as her right eye narrows like a cat's...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Stop!!!" Kid shouts.
<Waitpad> I look back to the mirror, but the image has already started to fade...
<Volume 40, 00><Waitpad><FadeIn 70, 14><Call 0x000A72><Delay 0A> Squeezing her hand into a fist, Kid slumps downward. The room is silent.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid... <Delay 0D>I'm sorry..."
<Waitpad>"Let's go," Kid says abruptly, heading towards the door.
<Waitpad>"Wait! Wait for me, Kid!" I shout as I chase after her.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x01E3EA>
<ClearText><If 0x149E doesn't equal 01 goto 0x01E41B><Goto 0x01E500>

<Label 0x01E41B>
"Very well."
<Waitpad><ClearText> The reflection of the statue begins to ripple a little. <FadeOut 68, 28><Delay 0D> Gradually, the mirror fades into darkness.
<waitpad><Delay 20> However, after a minute or two, nothing materializes...
<Waitpad> What could this mean?
<Waitpad><FadeIn 70, 14><Call 0x000A72><Delay 0A><ClearText>"Worthless piece of junk. C'mon, let's get back to work!" Kid says, flexing her quick temper. We resume our search, disregarding the mirror.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x01E784>

<Label 0x01E500>
"I see."
<Waitpad><ClearText> The mirror starts to ripple and sparkle like water, brilliantly illuminating the room.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 02><Delay 08> Once the light has faded, we're treated with a scene of a vividly colored, beautiful courtyard...
<Waitpad> Amidst a number of trees' shadows, a boy and a girl are sitting and playing.
<Waitpad> Somehow I know that the boy is Magil. Even as a child, his trademark spirit shines through.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The girl, however, looks strangely familiar. Where have I seen that face before... perhaps that painting in the study?
<Waitpad> They're talking happily together. We're too far away to hear what they're saying, though.
<Waitpad> Then all of a sudden, he says something with a serious look suddenly in his eyes.
<Waitpad> Although surprised, the girl listens to what the boy has to say, and then nods.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The two press their hands together, linking fingers. It looks as though they're making a promise of some sort.
<waitpad> What could this be about?
<Waitpad> The mirror's reflection ripples, and before long is back to a normal reflection.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 11><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 14>"I'm envious, Master Magil. I would very much like to have had memories of this splendor," Venus says, humbled.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A79><Delay 14> Saying nothing, Magil acknowledges neither us nor the mirror.
<waitpad>"We do not have time to play around. We must continue our search."
<Waitpad> Kid shrugs her shoulders as we continue to look around the room.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x01E784>

<Label 0x01E784>
<ClearText> I take another extensive look at the room, reminding myself it's important not to miss a single detail.
<Waitpad> What should I do now?
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x01E810> *Rely on Kid's intuition. 
<Choice 0x01EA03> *Rely on Magil's experience. 
<Choice 0x01EB38> *Rely on myself for the time being.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01E810>
<ClearText> Ah, Kid... with her thieving genius, able to find a needle in a haystack...
<Waitpad>"Hey, lookit!" Kid shouts, turning around with a mischievous grin on her face, and two big pens in her hands.
<Waitpad>"Hah, haha! Lynx, ya bastard, howd'ya like some redecoratin'?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> She takes off the caps and begins to scribble all over everything with both hands. The walls, the furniture, and even the ceilings are all given equal defacing.
<Waitpad>"La, la la... yer next, ya crazy old mirror!"
<Waitpad>"Nooooo....!! Please, no..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, perfect," Kid says, looking around the room satisfactorily. Satisfied, she runs out of the room.
<waitpad> Feeling sorry for it, I wipe off the mirror and the statue. The rest of the room, on the other hand...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x01EA03>
<ClearText>"What's the best thing to do now, Magil?"
<Waitpad> Magil promptly disappears into the room's shadows. One by one, from the desk, to the display shelf, to the statue, I see his shadow shuffle around the room.
<Waitpad> Before long, Magil materializes from behind the desk with something in his hand.
<waitpad>"Something was dropped here."
<Waitpad><ClearText> It's a few small envelopes. Opening them, we find a map of Regiorra, three copper coins, and other recently unsent mail.
<Waitpad>"Worthless bastard... where's all yer good stuff?" Kid grumbles.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x01EB38>
<ClearText> Sure... if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.
<Waitpad> Hmm... where would I hide something if I lived here...
<Waitpad> Over by the window, a particularly inviting looking sofa catches my eye. I might as well take a break, I suppose...
<waitpad> Wow, it's really comfy.
<Waitpad><ClearText> ...Except for this thing poking me in the back...
<waitpad> I reach around behind me and pull off the cushion.
<waitpad> There's something hidden here! It's a little green bottle, filled with a clear liquid.
<Waitpad>"Well? You gonna drink it, or what?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> I inspect it carefully, reading the fine print.
<waitpad>"Effective against: malnutrition, weak constitution, loss of appetite, insomnia, headache, buttache, arthritis, sensitivity to cold."
<Waitpad>"Is there anything it doesn't do?"
<waitpad> I shrug, downing the sweet-smelling stuff.
<waitpad><PlaySound 24><24, 65, 28><Delay 0D><24, E5, 14><Delay 08> As I drink the liquid, I start to feel a strange warmth circulate throughout my body...
<Add 14 to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x01ECFB><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x01ECFB>
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Well?"
<waitpad>"I don't know... I feel a little weird. But wait, yeah, I feel better than I did a minute ago! A lot better!"
<Waitpad>"Aw, yer just playin' around. C'mon Serge, there has to be somethin' interesting around here somewhere..."
<Waitpad> I follow Kid out of the room, amazed at how good I suddenly feel.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x01ED5B>
<ClearText>"Arrite, the key to that vault's gotta be in here somewhere," Kid says as she starts to search. "Frozen Flame, here we come!"
<Waitpad> I sift through a number of odd items adorning the room. There's a cluttered desk, a painting that's hanging unevenly on the far wall, and a pitcher on a side table, among other things.
<Waitpad><ClearText> In one corner of the room stands a tall, curious object of some sort. A scarlet cloth has been placed over it, covering it up.
<Waitpad> As I slowly reach my hand out to uncover it, Magil suddenly says, "Please avoid reckless interference."
<waitpad> Taking his advice, I return my hand to my side.
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, the cloth suddenly starts to fall off on its own.
<waitpad><Call 0x000A72><Delay 1E>"I didn't touch it, I swear!"
<Waitpad>"What, did it just leap off all by itself?" Kid asks, rolling her eyes.
<Waitpad><ClearText> A large mirror has been uncovered. Fancifully decorated, it looks to be a high-priced arabesque antique.
<Waitpad>"I got a bad feelin' about this..."
<Waitpad> Then, all of a sudden...
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 08><Call 0x000A79><Delay 2E> The reflection of the Venus statue opens its eyes, staring at us through the mirror!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 1E>"Is there something you seek?" the statue's reflection asks, in a soft womanly voice.
<Waitpad> The voice seems to be coming from the statue in front of me, but only the mirror's reflection seems to be moving.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000A79><Delay 1E>"It... it can talk!"
<Waitpad>"It is a Mirror of Whispers," Magil says, examining it closely.
<Waitpad>"But... what is it!?"
<Waitpad><cleartext>"It is a looking glass that harbors a living spirit. The spirit is free to roam throughout nearby mirrors, able to see into our everyday lives. They are known to be quite wise. Is there anything you wish to ask?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Wow... a million questions come to mind...
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x01F1B4> *Ask about Lynx. 
<Choice 0x01EFF2> *Ask where the key to the treasure vault is. 
<Choice 0x01F2DA> *Ask about Kid's measurements.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01EFF2>
"If you know where the key to the treasure vault is, could you please tell us?"
<waitpad><ClearText> The mirror's surface begins to ripple. The whirling smoke soon takes shape into a picture of a large room, decorated with rows and rows of books.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 14> In a beautiful womanly voice, the mirror responds, "The key you seek, as you see before you, rests within this room. Towards the rear of this great sanctuary of knowledge, within a large purple book, you will find the item you so desire."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000A79><Delay 0F> The image slowly fades, and returns to a normal
reflection.
<Waitpad>"The spirit has apparently moved to another mirror," Magil says.
<Waitpad>"Okay, let's head for the study!"
<Waitpad><Cleartext><fadeout 70, 60><delay 28> As I head for the door, I suddenly get the feeling I'm being watched. I come to a stop and look around.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Then, suddenly, a faint whisper reaches my ears. "...Be careful, they know..."
<Waitpad><cleartext> Whose voice was that? It wasn't any of ours...
<waitpad> The mirror... it wouldn't double-cross us, would it?
<Waitpad><cleartext> Kid heads out the door, bolting down the corridor. I frantically chase after her, easily as eager as she is.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Set 0x14B0 to 01><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x01F1B4>
"What's going on inside Lynx's mind right now?" I ask, as my curiosity momentarily overcomes my fear.
<waitpad><ClearText> The surface of the mirror ripples gently, before fading into darkness. Before long, a sentence of white text begins to materialize.
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 08>"Huh?" Kid asks, frustratedly staring at the text. "What's `Be so kind and find him by yourselves' supposed to mean? That's yer answer!? Ya damn mirror, you just wanna good smashin', don't ya!" she yells, stepping towards it.
<Waitpad><cleartext> However, the mirror's clarity begins to fade, and all of the remaining text becomes too foggy to be read. Kid shakes the mirror in anger, but the mirror seems to have lost its vision.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The spirit has transferred itself to another mirror. It's useless to try and speak to it now," Magil says.
<Waitpad>"Damn mirror! Come on, Let's find another one!" Kid insists, rushing out of Lynx's quarters.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x01F2DA>
"Kid's measurements!" bursts out of my mouth with a big smile.
<waitpad><ClearText> I duck out of the way as Kid begins to slap and punch me, desperately trying to keep my eyes on the mirror.
<waitpad> Suddenly, its surface begins to ripple. Could it really know this much? Boy, this is going to be good...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Slowly, numbers start to form on the dark surface.
<Waitpad>"66... 5... 9..."
<Waitpad> 66, 5, and 9? What kind of measurements are those? Momentarily catching her attention, Kid also stares at the numbers, scratching her head.
<Waitpad><Cleartext> After a moment, Magil offers a simple answer in an apathetic monotone. "Height, shoe size, ring size."
<Waitpad><ClearText> What!? Oh man, what a gyp...
<Waitpad>"Umm... excuse me, Miss Venus... Ma'am..."
<Waitpad> However, the mirror has already returned to its normal appearance, reflecting nothing but the ugly room back at me.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"The spirit has apparently migrated to another mirror," Magil says.
<Waitpad>"Really? It can do that? Damn..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Laughing at my misfortune, Kid adds, "Aw, come on, what more could a guy ask for than to know the great Kid's ring size! So, which did you want to buy me, Serge? Clothes, shoes, or jewelry?"
<Waitpad> Me and my big mouth...
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x01F593>
<If 0x14A6 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01F5A3><Goto 0x01F5A7><Goto 0x01F5A7>

<Label 0x01F5A3>
<Goto 0x01FBD0>

<Label 0x01F5A7>
 No matter how many times I return here, this room still doesn't seem any more appealing to me.
<Waitpad> The only redeeming point is that Mirror of Whispers in the corner, always good for a chat.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I walk up to it and remove the crimson cloth.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A72><Delay 0F><Call 0x000A79><Delay 0F><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 0F>"Is there anything you wish to know?" the mirror politely asks.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A79><Delay 0F>"Well, there's lots of things I could ask," I say hesitantly.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The statue's eyes shimmer in the dimly lit room like candles.
<Waitpad>"Very well, I will answer one question."
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x01F716> *"Why only one?"
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x01F8E4> *"Well, in that case..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01F716>
<ClearText>"If I were to answer every question anyone has ever asked me, people would spend their entire lives asking me questions."
<Waitpad> Magil smiles.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"And so, I have answered your question, Master Serge."
<Waitpad>"What? Oh, you've got to be kidding me..."
<Waitpad>"Ya cheap talkin' head, I should crush ya right here and now!" Kid shouts.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 0F>"How unfortunate, you are out of opportunities...."
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A79><Delay 14><ClearText>"I'll give ya unfortunate!!" Kid yells, clenching her fists.
<Waitpad>"Let's go, Kid... I've had enough of this place..."
<Waitpad> As I leave, I can't help but think I was cheated. But, we'll be back...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x01F8E4>
<ClearText>"In that case, I'd like to know about your past."
<Waitpad> After a moment of silence, the statue's reflection starts to speak in a very humble tone.
<waitpad>"You have interest in my past?"
<Waitpad>"Yeah, what in blazes are ya?" Kid interrupts.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Well, it's probably been three hundred years already since I was crafted in the Realm of the Looking Glass," the statue's soft voice explains.
<Waitpad>"The Realm of the Looking Glass?" I ask.
<Waitpad>"It's the flip-side of this world... a world which harbors the objective contents of thoughts," Magil quickly answers.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Passing through the hands of many owners, I traveled far and wide throughout many lands..."
<Waitpad>"So how did ya end up here?" Kid asks.
<Waitpad>"I came here with a kindred spirit, but now... I am alone."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Furthermore, now that I am without others of my own kind, I have begun to fade... I am so lonely..."
<Waitpad> Tears trickle down the statue's face as it begins to weep quietly.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"If we come across any other mirrors like you, we'd surely come back and tell you," I say, trying to comfort it.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 1E>"Thank you so much... your kindness shines, truly."
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A79><Delay 14> The Venus statue bows its head deeply, and with that, the reflection returns to its normal appearance.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Indeed. We have yet to explore much of this mansion," Magil says, heading for the door.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x01FBD0>
<ClearText>"Lynx's quarters... I sure hope that key's in here somewhere."
<Waitpad>"Bet that mirror could tell us where it is!" Kid says, removing its large silk cloth.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000A72><Delay 1E> The dark mirror looms before us like a still lake on a moonless evening.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A79><Delay 1E><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 1E>"Is there something you wish to know?" the Venus statue's reflection asks.
<Call 0x000A79><Delay 0a><Choice 0x01F1B4> *Ask about Lynx. 
<Choice 0x01EFF2> *Ask where the treasure vault key is. 
<Choice 0x01F2DA> *Ask about Kid's measurements.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x01FCD0>
<If 0x1493 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x01FCDC><Goto 0x0201EE>

<Label 0x01FCDC>
<If 0x149B doesn't equal 01 goto 0x01FCE8><Goto 0x0201EE>

<Label 0x01FCE8>
<PlaySong 11><ClearText> No matter how many times I return here, this room still doesn't seem any more appealing to me.
<Waitpad> The only redeeming point is the Mirror of Whispers in the corner, always good for a chat.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I walk up to it and remove the soft crimson cloth.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A72><Delay 1E> However, the statue doesn't seem to respond. All I see is a normal reflection of the room.
<waitpad> Wait... there's something different about the reflection.
<waitpad>"Hey, look, there's a hole in one of the walls!" Kid stammers.
<Waitpad> However, looking back at the actual room, all I can see is just another solid wall.
<Waitpad><ClearText> We walk over to the wall.
<Waitpad> Knocking and pushing against it provides us with no answers. It's solid.
<Waitpad>"I don't get it..."
<Waitpad> Kid kicks the wall. Then throws a painting at it. Then a chair. Nothing.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Come on, Kid... I don't think that's going to do anything. Maybe there's another way..."
<Waitpad>"Well what do you recommend, Mister know-it-all? How 'bout we tickle it open!" she yells sarcastically, taking a feather pen from the desk and tickling the wall with it.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Remarkably, the wall begins to tremble and wobble! Kid jumps back at once, easily twice as stunned as I am!
<Waitpad> The wall continues to shake as a low laughing voice starts to come out from all around us.
<waitpad>"The wall, it's... laughing!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid cautiously approaches the wall, again tickling it all over with the quill...
<Waitpad> The wall begins to contort all over, now more violently than before, as its laughing becomes more and more hysterical.
<Waitpad> Suddenly, as if bursting open, the wall starts to crumble into dust, opening up a secret passageway as the sand-like substance falls to the floor!
<Waitpad><ClearText> A hole just big enough for a person stands where the wall once was.
<Waitpad>"Whoa, a hidden door," Kid remarks, looking around at the passage. She fearlessly walks through a moment later.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02002F> *Go through with her. 
<Choice 0x020160> *Try to get her to come back out.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02002F>
 This is certainly a big find... I wonder what's in here...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x0388EC>

<Label 0x02005C>
<ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 11><FadeOut 70, 14><Delay 08><ClearBG><Call 0x000A66><FadeIn 70, 14><delay 20> We return to Lynx's quarters through the secret passageway.
<Waitpad> As soon as we're all through, the pile of dust suddenly scatters up, completely concealing the hole as though it never had dissolved in the first place.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Wow... it looks so real..."
<Waitpad>"C'mon, Serge... we gotta get goin'."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x020160>
<ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x020171><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x020171>
"Kid, I don't like the look of this. There could be anything in there..."
<Waitpad>"Quit bein' such a baby, Serge! Come on, this is a great find!"
<Waitpad> ...I have no choice, do I.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x0388EC>

<Label 0x0201EE>
<If 0x14B5 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0201FE><Goto 0x020AF3><Goto 0x020202>

<Label 0x0201FE>
<Set 0x14B5 to 01>

<Label 0x020202>
<ClearText>"Lynx!!"
<Waitpad><PlaySong 05> What? Lynx is here!? I rush into the room behind Kid, unsheathing my knife in a flash of adrenaline.
<Waitpad>"Where is he!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Beside me, Kid says, "Gotcha."<Call 0x000DB7>
<Waitpad><PlaySong 11>"Tee hee... were ya scared?" she asks, giggling.
<Waitpad>"Oh sheesh... don't do that to me, heh..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Has Lord Lynx returned to the room?" A high alto voice asks.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A72><Delay 1E> Kid and I glance at each other, giggling. "No, he isn't here right now."
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A79><Delay 0F><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 0D>"Ah, Master Serge. Is there something I can answer for you?" the statue asks in a pleasant voice. "Or, perhaps, you'd be interested in this lovely gift I have for you?"
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A79><Delay 14><ClearText>"Huh? A gift?"
<Waitpad>"Only a modest token of my appreciation for you and your comrades. I present you with a personal invitation into the Realm of the Looking Glass, if you are interested."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Wow, really?"
<Waitpad>"Yes, but we must hurry. Time is of the essence."
<waitpad> I look towards the dark, rippling surface of the mirror. Slowly, I reach my hand out towards it.
<waitpad> It feels like my hand is being submerged in water, passing straight into the mirror...
<waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, there's a slight pull. I try to retract my arm, but the harder I pull, the further I seem to be getting drawn in...
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 0D>"Master Serge! Take your hand out, quickly!!"
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A79><Delay 0A><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 01><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 03><PlaySound 37><Delay 02><PlaySound 37> Just then, a crack streaks across the mirror!
<Waitpad>"What's... going on!?"
<Waitpad> Amidst my struggling, I see a crack start to streak down the mirror's glass...
<waitpad><cleartext>"Save yourself, Master Serge... Please, before I am forced to consume you..."
<Waitpad>"What!?"
<waitpad> Kid starts pulling with me, despite the increasing force drawing me in! I'm now up to my shoulder in this thing!
<waitpad><cleartext>"On the count of three," I yell!
<waitpad>"One,<delay 0a> two,<delay 0a> three!!"
<waitpad> We tumble backwards, falling onto the couch. I look at my arm in a daze. It's fine.
<waitpad> Shaking myself off, I return to the mirror, now even more cracked since I last saw it.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Lynx planned to seal you all in the mirror," the statue says, sobbing.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 01><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 03><PlaySound 37><Delay 01><PlaySound 37> Each time it speaks, another crack seems to be running into it!
<Waitpad>"This isn't all... I had alerted Lord Lynx of your presence, long before you had known of me..."
<FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 01><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 03><PlaySound 37><Waitpad><cleartext>"Why?"
<Waitpad><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 03><Volume 80, FF>"Lynx has already taken away everything I have..."
<FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 01><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 03><PlaySound 37><Waitpad><Call 0x000A7D><Delay 0D>"He refused to allow me to leave Viper Manor, coercing me to be the mansion's eyes and ears, promising he would someday set me free..."
<Waitpad><Call 0x000A79><Delay 0D><ClearText> Hanging her head low, the Venus statue speaks in a quiet, solemn voice.
<Waitpad>"However, it was simply another one of Lord Lynx's schemes. No freedom is worth stealing another's for. I would rather destroy myself than become another murderer..."
<FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 01><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 03><PlaySound 37><PlaySound 37><waitpad> As yet another crack appears, a large piece of the mirror breaks off, falling to the ground.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"No.... don't...!" I yell, grasping the mirror!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 01><FadeOut 68, 04><Delay 01><FadeIn 68, 02><Delay 03><PlaySound 37><Delay 03><PlaySound 37><Delay 01><PlaySound 37> A huge crack streaks across the entire mirror, preventing me from seeing almost any of the statue...
<PlaySound 37><Delay 02><PlaySound 37><waitpad> The statue's lips can be seen moving faintly from beyond the now heavily cracked mirror, but no words can be heard...
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 36><24, 7F, 0A><Delay 03><24, FF, 0A><FadeOut 70, 1E><Delay 0F><ClearText><Call 0x000A66><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 14> <delay 10>I silently bend down and gather up all the shards. Putting them on the desk, I look into the kaleidoscope of reflections...
<Waitpad>"Serge...?" from behind me, I hear Kid's voice.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Let's go, mate..."
<Waitpad> As I leave the room, I quietly look over my shoulder, looking at the smashed mirror. I stop for a second, hoping to hear a voice, but...
<Waitpad> All I hear is silence.
<Waitpad><FadeOut f0, 60><ClearBG><delay 30><ClearText><fadein 90, 00><Add 14 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x020ADB><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x020ADB>
<Add 14 to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x020AEB><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x020AEB>
<Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x020AF3>
<ClearText><PlaySong 03> I cast our eyes around the room. It's as still as death.
<Waitpad> Magil puts his hand on my shoulder. "Serge..."
<Waitpad><cleartext> I turn and silently leave the room, letting Venus rest in peace.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00EDC9>


<Label 0x020B6E>
*The sunflower


<Label 0x020B73>
<Call 0x02752C><ClearText><Call 0x02754E><Call 0x027747><PlaySong 06><Volume 40, FF><Delay 2D><FadeIn F0, 3C><Delay 14> Much to my surprise, we're able to find it right away. It turns out to be a beautiful beetle, colored solid gold, perched on a high tree limb.
<Waitpad>"The Golden Beetle!!" Kid cries out, climbing up the large tree.
<Waitpad> The beetle certainly glitters like real gold... Kid seems quite caught up in the sight. No, not caught up in the sight -- rather, caught up in the greed, I should say...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Man, she's fast..."
<waitpad> She's already climbed up about five or six times my height, heavily baited with hopes of gold.
<Waitpad>"Ah hah!"
<waitpad> Kid catches it, but almost instantly the beetle shakes free, buzzing out of her hand!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Wait!" she yells, reaching out her hand further and further, hoping to catch the golden insect. But suddenly, she loses balance and falls!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x020DEE after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x020D03> *Try to catch her!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x020D03>
<ClearText>"Hold on!!" I yell, leaping forward.
<Waitpad> But then, she begins to curl herself into a small ball, spinning around in midair like a cannonball!
<waitpad> This is bad! She'll knock the both of us out if I have to catch her like that!
<waitpad><cleartext> Seeing this, I jump out of the way, fearing for my life!
<Waitpad> However, Kid opens herself up mere feet from the ground, gracefully landing as nimble as a cat!
<waitpad> She doesn't seem hurt in the least. If I hadn't run, she probably would have landed flat on my face...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid..."
<waitpad>"Wait! My beetle!!" she yells, continuing to chase after it without even acknowledging us.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x020E8C>

<Label 0x020DEE>
<ClearText> It's okay, I remind myself. Falling from this kind of height is no cause for concern.
<Waitpad> Just as I suspect, Kid revolves in the air just like a cat, landing without a hitch. She then immediately takes off running without even looking at me.
<Waitpad>"Wait! My beetle!!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x020E8C>

<Label 0x020E78>
<Call 0x02752C><ClearText><Call 0x027747><PlaySong 06><Volume 40, FF><Delay 2D><Call 0x02754E>

<Label 0x020E8C>
<FadeOut f0, 3C><ClearText><delay 20><FadeIn F0, 3C><Delay 14> Relentlessly chasing the beetle, she plunges deeper and deeper into the forest. We follow after, desperately trying to keep her in sight. For all I know, it could be the Golden Beetle, or just another common insect...
<Waitpad> However, we're so deep in the forest now, I can't see anything but an endless assortment of dark trees and jagged rocks, stretching out in every direction. I doubt Kid herself can even see the beetle at this point.
<waitpad><cleartext> How could she still be tracking it?
<Waitpad> As soon as I start to ask myself this, I realize what she'd tell me -- intuition.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x027747><Volume 00, FF> Suddenly, Kid stops in a clearing.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x020F6F> *"Did you find it!?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02104F> *"Kid, we really should be getting back..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x020F6F>
<Volume 20, 00><ClearText>"Naw... I found somethin' gold, but it ain't the Golden Beetle."
<Waitpad><PlaySong 00><PlaySong 06><Volume 40, FF><ClearText> I look over Kid's shoulder. There, in a small spot of light, stands a tall golden plant. My first impression is that it's a sunflower, but those don't usually bloom at night, do they?
<delay 0a><Choice 0x021095> *"What is this thing?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0210F1> *"What's so special about it? Haven't you ever seen a sunflower before, Kid?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02104F>
<ClearText> As soon I say this, she comes over and slaps me!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad> Jeez, what did I say...
<Volume 20, 00><waitpad><cleartext> I walk around a little, trying to catch my breath.
<waitpad> Suddenly, in a small clearing off in the distance, I spot a tall, golden plant.
<waitpad>"Hey, isn't that a sunflower? Nah, it couldn't be... they don't usually bloom at night, do they?" I ask.
<Waitpad><PlaySong 00><PlaySong 06><Volume 40, FF><Goto 0x021095>

<Label 0x021095>
<ClearText>"Sheeze, yer as thick as ever. There's somethin' special about this thing, can't ya feel it!?"
<Waitpad> Hmm... I close my eyes, trying to get one of those feelings she's always talking about...
<delay 0a><Choice 0x021110> *Take a deep breath. 
<Choice 0x021156> *Concentrate.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0210F1>
"Of course, ya dummy!" Kid says, hitting me upside the head.<Call 0x027543>
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x021095>

<Label 0x021110>
<ClearText>"Mmmm... forest smell..."
<waitpad> Kid suddenly jabs me in the arm.
<Call 0x027543><Waitpad> I have to admit, I haven't had much luck being intuitive... especially while being beaten up...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0211CA>

<Label 0x021156>
<ClearText> I close my eyes, trying to concentrate.
<waitpad><delay 20>"So, do ya feel anything?"
<Waitpad>"Hmm... well, I feel a little tired..."
<waitpad>"Not that kind of feeling, ya dummy!" she says angrily, slapping me upside the head.
<Call 0x027543><Waitpad> I have to admit, I haven't had much experience being intuitive... especially while being beaten up...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0211CA>

<Label 0x0211CA>
<ClearText> Hmmmm... I try to wonder what she can possibly be feeling all the way out here in the middle of nowhere.
<waitpad> I walk around the enormous plant, taking another look at it. But then, suddenly...
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 08>"What the...!?"
<PlaySong 05><FadeOut 30, 00><Call 0x027553><FadeIn 30, 3C><delay 20><cleartext><Delay 22> A face suddenly emerges in the center of the flower! It's a ghastly sight, complete with drunken, drowsy eyes, purple eyelashes, thick, pink lips, and a long bent nose! A cross-dressing sunflower... now I've seen it all!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x021293>

<Label 0x021293>
<Choice 0x0212FC> *"What is this thing, Kid?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x021343> *"What is it, Magil?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0212C5> *Take another good look at it.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0212C5>
<ClearText> I take another look, not that I'm interested in this sort of thing... (not that there's anything wrong with that...)
<Waitpad><24, 56, 3C><Delay 0F> Ugh, I feel strange... what kind of twisted mind would make something like this?
<delay 0a><24, D6, 28><Goto 0x021293>

<Label 0x0212FC>
<ClearText> I go to ask Kid, but she's too busy laughing at it. She's truly something else, without a doubt...
<delay 0a><Goto 0x021293>

<Label 0x021343>
<ClearText> Apparently unfazed by the strange sight, Magil calmly starts to rack his brain. "Ah, what was this sort of thing called," he says as he strokes his chin, going into a sort of quiet trance.
<waitpad> I sure hope he remembers soon... that's Magil for you, though. He's got a head full of knowledge, wiser than most I've ever met. However, it takes him a good bit of time to remember certain things, and until he remembers, he'll remain completely useless. He's led us into danger a few times because of that...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 32><Goto 0x021401>

<Label 0x021401>
<ClearText><Call 0x027747><PlaySong 06><Volume 40, FF><Call 0x02755F><FadeIn 90, 28>"Bonsoir, mademoiselle."
<Call 0x027563><Waitpad> Wait, it can talk too!?
<waitpad>"Madam-what?" Kid asks, smirking.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x02755F>"Ah, ma che'rie, I was just zneaking a peek at your petite breast. I hope that you are not angry! Uhuhuhuhu!"
<Call 0x027563><Waitpad>"What!? Get yer eyes offa me!"
<Waitpad><Call 0x02755F>"Oh, my zweet mademoiselle... how young and fiezty you are," <Call 0x027563>the sunflower answers back playfully.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"You perverted freak'a nature! Watch what ya say around me!" Kid says as she flashes her dagger, dangling down at her side.
<Waitpad> Kid squaring off with a sunflower... now I've seen it all.
<waitpad><Call 0x02755F>"Ah, my dahling... perhapz you and I could converse zomewhere a bit more... private?"
<Call 0x027563><Waitpad> Suddenly, Kid whips out her dagger, slashing clean through the sunflower's stalk!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x02755F><24, 56, 00><PlaySound 0D>"Gyaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
<24, D6, 00><Call 0x027563><FadeOut 30, 00><Waitpad> Its blaring screech is as excruciating to hear as a hundred hands simultaneously scratching down a chalkboard!
<Waitpad> I feel faint... my knees are going to buckle if I hear any more of that deafening screech!
<Waitpad><ClearText> But then, suddenly... <FadeIn 30, 30><Call 0x02755F>"Oh hoo hoo, you must not be so violent, ma zweet-chested fille! Zat tickles!"
<Call 0x027563><Waitpad> Somehow, another sunflower has instantly sprouted and replaced the one that was cut down, perfectly identical to its predecessor!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Bastard!!" Kid shouts, slashing her dagger through the air once again!
<Waitpad><Call 0x02755F><24, 56, 00><PlaySound 0D>"Gyaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
<24, D6, 00><Call 0x027563><FadeOut 30, 00><waitpad> More and more of that awful screech fills the air. But then, moments later...
<waitpad><cleartext><FadeIn 30, 00><Call 0x02755F>"Non, I am not yet married... but, if you insist..."
<Call 0x027563><Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x02755F><Call 0x021850><Call 0x021850><Call 0x021850><Call 0x021850><Call 0x021850><Call 0x027563> Kid continues hacking away, tearing down every new sunflower that pops up! However, for every one she mows down, two or three instantly sprout up in its place!
<Waitpad><ClearText> All this screeching... I can't take it any longer! "Stop, Kid! Please..."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x021876> *Try to stop her! 
<Choice 0x0218F7> *Get Magil to do something!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x021850>
<FadeIn 30, 00><24, 56, 00><PlaySound 0D>"Gyaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
<24, D6, 00><FadeOut 30, 00><Delay 0a><Return>

<Label 0x021876>
<ClearText>"Stop, Kid!" I shout, trying to intervene.
<waitpad> However, she heatedly shoves me aside, becoming more and more infuriated as she hacks through the never-ending crop of sunflowers!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0219E5> *Try again! 
<Choice 0x0218F7> *Get Magil to do something!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0218F7>
<ClearText> This is kind of pathetic, but rationalizing with Kid is useless. All I can think of is to ask Magil for help.
<Waitpad> I look over at him and ask "Magil, what do we do!?" but he just stands there with his finger on his chin, staring down at the ground, as still as a statue!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Shaking him, I shout "Hey! Magil!!" but it's useless. Beneath his mask, those eyes of his sport a blank, foggy gaze, silently staring off into nothingness. I can't believe it -- he must be still trying to remember what this thing is called!
<waitpad> We have to do something here! I can't just sit here and let this happen!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x021A1B>

<Label 0x0219E5>
<ClearText>"Kid! Come on!!" I shout, trying to shake her, but she only shrugs me off as she continues to whack away at the sunflowers, getting more and more infuriated!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x021A1B>

<Label 0x021A1B>
<ClearText><FadeIn 30, 3C><Call 0x02755F>"Ah, ma che'rie... why must you zhake your puny little zword at moi? We do not need such love games. Wit ze sweet feelingz we have for each other, zere is no use for la violence, n'est-ce que pas?"
<Call 0x027563><Waitpad> Kid's face turns redder and redder as she buries herself further into the sunflower patch.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, I remember now," Magil says, finally snapping out of it. "This is what is known as a `Mandora Monster'. Please do not make the mistake of trying to cut it down."
<waitpad><ClearText>"Uhh... Magil..."
<Waitpad> I point to the humongous crop of sunflowers, where Kid has now resorted to gripping one of the sunflowers' stalks and shaking it with both hands. However, the sunflower does nothing but laugh down at her.
<Waitpad><Call 0x027747><Volume 00, FF><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><FadeIn F0, 3C><Delay 14><Call 0x0276CA><PlaySound 15> Suddenly, all around us, the ground starts to tremble and quake! Dirt loosens as the ground gives way, creating a sort of quicksand beneath our feet! I leap back instantly, but I then realize Kid's still in the thick of it, ignoring everything except the sunflowers!
<Waitpad>"Kid!!!" I yell, but it's too late! She's caught up in the entanglement of stalks! After a moment, she slips and falls on the unstable ground, getting swallowed up into the newly formed pit beneath her!
<Waitpad><cleartext><24, 74, 32> I try to go after her, but just as I approach the patch, a great number of plants and vines quickly shoot up around Kid, blocking me!
<waitpad> Then, suddenly, a mess of vines leap out at me, trying to wrap themselves around my arms and legs!!
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, I feel a set of strong arms take hold of me and jerk me back almost immediately. "Thanks, Magil..."
<Waitpad>"There's no time to lose! Run!"
<Waitpad>"But Kid...!"
<Waitpad>"I know!"
<waitpad><Volume a0, 00><cleartext><delay 10> Running up onto a nearby hill, I stop for a moment and look back. The whole mess is nothing but a billowing cloud of dust now. All I can make out are a multitude of vines waving crazily in the air. I can neither see nor hear Kid.
<PlaySound 00><delay 0a><Choice 0x021CA1> *Head back in and try to rescue her. 
<Choice 0x021D4D> *Call out to her from here.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x021CA1>
<ClearText> As soon as I try to make a run for the dusty mess, Magil reaches out with his large hands, restraining me.
<Waitpad>"We must wait for the dust to settle. It's useless to try and find her now."
<waitpad> He's right, it's way too crazy in there right now. I try to remind myself that the only reason I want to do something is out of shock. I need to relax...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x021DD4>

<Label 0x021D4D>
<ClearText>"Kid! Kid!!"
<waitpad> I call out again and again, to no avail. I want to rush in there and help her, but...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x021DD4>

<Label 0x021DD4>
<FadeOut 90, 28><24, F4, 3C><Delay 0F><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><FadeOut 4F, 00><Call 0x027567><delay 1e> After a minute or two, the dust starts to settle.
<waitpad>"Hey, what's that?"
<waitpad> A large silhouette is starting to appear from out of the dust cloud. It's big... a lot bigger than what was there before.
<Waitpad> As the figure is gradually exposed to the moonlight, I start to see a more defined shape...
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeIn 48, 8C><24, 75, 3C><FadeOut 25, 00><04, 1E, 00><FadeIn 65, 8C><24, F5, 3C><Delay 3C><FadeOut 65, 1E>"Kid!!!"
<Waitpad><cleartext><delay 10> This thing, whatever it is, is easily seven or eight times my height.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Its body seems to resemble a gorilla's. Its exposed muscles are wrapped in ivy, and its digits remind me of pointed shellfish. Golden sunflower petals are lined up the back of its neck.
<waitpad><cleartext> However, instead of a head...
<waitpad> ...It's her!
<waitpad><cleartext> Kid's stark naked upper body has been fused into the top of the monster. Other than the two small sunflowers covering her chest, she's wearing nothing at all...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Serge, listen to me. The Mandora Monster has fused with Kid. We must save her quickly, otherwise she'll be lost forever, consumed by her own hate."
<waitpad><Cleartext>"Serge! Quit gawking and pay attention!"
<Waitpad>"What? She's going to die!?"
<waitpad> I frantically try to think of what to do. It's hard though, I can't seem to take my eyes off those two sunflowers...
<delay 0a><Choice 0x022049> *Take another look at it. 
<Choice 0x022126> *Ask "How do we save her!?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x022049>
<ClearText> Kid's expressionless face teeters listlessly back and forth as the monster establishes its footing. Those usually fiery eyes of hers now appear desperate and hollow. Her skin is a dark grassy green, like that of an amazon goddess...
<waitpad>

<Label 0x022126>
<ClearText>"Calm down. There is a way."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The monster has managed to intertwine itself with Kid because of her strong sentiments of anger. Unless we separate Kid from her anger, we will be unable to save her."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"How do we do that!?"
<Waitpad>"<textspeed 14>...<call 0x007474><delay 10>With love."
<Waitpad>"Love..."
<waitpad><ClearText>"Yes... it's the only way. I shall go and make preparations. In the meantime, protect Kid's body, and show her love. Also, you must prevent her from using any magic. In her current state, the more she casts spells, the more she'll be lost to that beast."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What? Kid can't use magic."
<Waitpad>"She can now."
<waitpad><ClearText>How can this be happening...
<Waitpad>"Serge, show her your love," Magil says, leaving me with those words as he sinks into a nearby shadow.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Wait! Magil! Magiiiilll!!"
<Waitpad><FadeOut f0, 60><ClearText><delay 30><FadeIn ea, 3C><fadein 90, 00><delay 20> Alone and afraid, I look up at the huge atrocity as I shudder in the chilly nighttime breeze.
<Waitpad> Love... I couldn't think of a more awkward place to think about love. The sound of the word makes me cringe, as it dances through my mind...
<Waitpad><cleartext> While lost in thought, I suddenly hear a soft muttering from far above.
<Waitpad><27, 00><ClearText><FadeOut 4A, 3C><TextSpeed 04><Delay 2D><Indent 00x, 02y>"Ya say they're small..."
<FadeOut 90, ca><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 0F><Indent 00x, 02y>"They're not small, I tell ya..."
<FadeOut 90, ca><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 0F><Indent 00x, 02y>"Others' are big... too big..."
<FadeOut 90, ca><ClearText><Delay 0F><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 00x, 02y>"Stop makin' fun of me..."
<FadeOut 90, ca><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 00x, 02y>"Stop making fun of me!!"
<Delay 0A><FadeOut 90, 28><ClearText><Indent 06x, 04y><FadeIn 90, 00><call 0x007474><FadeIn 4A, 3C> "I'll kill you! I'll kill you all!!"
<Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 05><Delay 20><FadeOut 90, 28><ClearText><delay 10><FadeIn 90, 00><27, 01><call 0x007474> Kid cries out madly, her eyes filled with flames of rage!
<Waitpad> Suddenly, her gaze shifts towards me. The monster instantly lashes out a giant stone hammer from behind, arcing it down towards me!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x022503> *Parry it! 
<Choice 0x02255A> *Jump back!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x022503>
<ClearText> I can't parry it... not something that size!
<waitpad> I leap to the side at the very last second! The giant hammer comes crashing down, kicking up heaps of dirt and sand with a ground-shaking thud!
<playsound 07><Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x02260A>

<Label 0x02255A>
<ClearText> I instantly jump back just as the giant hammer comes crashing down, kicking up heaps of dirt and sand with a ground-shaking thud!
<playsound 07><Waitpad><cleartext>"Kid! It's me, Serge!" I call out to her, waving my arms wildly. However, the only reaction I get is of increasing anger!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02260A>

<Label 0x02260A>
<ClearText> Just then, I start to hear a low voice call out from beyond a nearby hill. "What's going on over there!?"
<Waitpad> Oh no... goblins!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Look, it's the Mandora! What's got it all acting up?"
<waitpad> Noticing the goblins, the monster begins to moan. Kid's cheeks puff up, and then, suddenly...
<Waitpad><ClearText>
<Call 0x027820><Call 0x0277E8><Delay 0F><Call 0x027567><04, 1E, 00><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 05><ClearText><FadeIn 6a, 32><Delay 14><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00> Kid sends a giant fireball streaking out of her mouth, crashing into the goblins! It instantly reduces them to ashes!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Dammit... magic!" I say to myself as Magil's warning flashes through my head.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Finished with the goblins, the monster suddenly remembers me, turning around and returning its gaze my way!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0227F1> *Run away for now! 
<Choice 0x022818> *Shout "I love you!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0227F1>
<ClearText> I've got to get out of here...!
<Waitpad> I quickly turn and head for the trees.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0228EC>

<Label 0x022818>
<ClearText> I can't help but feel embarrassed, professing my love to a hulking monster who's ready to kill me...
<waitpad> I nervously shout "I love you!" up into the night sky, hoping she'll hear me...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Suddenly, the monster starts to draw closer and closer to me! Did I do it? Is she coming back to reality?
<waitpad> ...No, it really doesn't look like it! Help!!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0228EC>

<Label 0x0228EC>
<Call 0x02752C><Call 0x02754E><ClearText><FadeIn F0, 3C><Delay 14> I run and hide, plunging into the deep, dark labyrinth of the wilderness.
<Waitpad> However, behind me I can hear the thunderous sounds of trees being crushed and boulders being broken. I continue to run as the gigantic monster chases after me!
<Waitpad><fadeout f0, 30><delay 30><cleartext><fadein f0, 30><delay 10> I've been running for at least five straight minutes now, dodging trees and jumping logs. I'm starting to lose my breath...
<waitpad> Just as I begin to think I can't run any more, the end of the forest comes into view!
<Waitpad> However, as I come to the clearing...
<Waitpad><Call 0x02752C><Call 0x027747><ClearText><Call 0x02757E><PlaySong 11><Volume 60, FF><FadeIn F0, 3C><Delay 14> Lined up before me is a troupe of fearless-looking goblins. They're carrying a huge cannon with them, easily twenty feet tall. I try not to think of how easily I'd be obliterated if I ever accidentally stood in its path... or was forced to stand in its path, for that matter...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"There! Lock on target!" shouts a goblin. Oh, great...
<delay 0a><choice 0x022AC2> *Try to tell them what's happening. 
<Choice 0x022F97> *Run away!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x022AC2>
<ClearText> I collapse at the goblins' feet, out of breath.
<Waitpad> The goblin leader, decked in a full suit of iron armor sporting Lynx's insignia, comes over towards me.
<Waitpad><cleartext> It glares at me with piercing, intimidating eyes, as though it's ready to whip out its mace if I do so much as breathe the wrong way.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I really don't know about this, turning to goblins for help... but, I've got no other choice!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x027747><PlaySong 03><Volume 60, FF>"Please, help me save my friend!"
<waitpad> The goblin guard stares at me blankly. I continue, gasping for air between sentences. "We were chasing after this beetle, but then a sunflower suddenly appeared, and captured my friend, and started to chase me through the forest! Please, you have to help us! She's the most important thing in the world to me!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> <textspeed 14>...<call 0x007474><delay 10>The goblin's eyes relax. "Is that right... your friend was captured? I understand. We'll help you. Don't worry."
<Waitpad>"Thank you!"
<waitpad> Boy, I'm sure glad I didn't judge this book by its cover.
<waitpad> However, just as I say this...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 28><ClearText><Call 0x027747><PlaySong 11><Volume 60, FF><FadeIn 90, 28>"And how much would zis lovely beetle of Kid's zell for, hmm?"
<Waitpad> That voice!
<Waitpad> Suddenly, the goblin shouts out! "What!? Your friend is that crooked thief, Kid?"
<waitpad> A wave of shock goes through me. Just when things were starting to seem okay for once...
<Waitpad><ClearText> I try to see behind the goblins, searching for that strangely familiar voice, the one that sounded just like the sunflower's. However, all I can make out is some sort of strange psychedelic light, emanating from behind the troupe.
<Waitpad><cleartext> The light seems to be coming from a figure, whoever (or whatever) it is. As he makes his way through the crowd, I finally get a good look at him. His hairstyle reminds me of a tall green chimney, and his red and green pinstriped costume is like that of a harlequin. An over-the-top, long purple cape drags behind him as he approaches me.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Are you... the sunflower?" I ask, confused.
<waitpad>"Sunflowah? Who iz a sunflowah!?" it cries out.
<waitpad> I can't help it... this person... no, this thing -- his face looks exactly like the sunflower's!
<Waitpad><cleartext> Caught off guard by the sight, two goblin guards flank me by surprise, wrestling me to the ground.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, monsieur... you are mademoiselle Kid's friend, non? I do not believe we have met. Bonsoir, Je m'appelle Pollon. T'roughout ze world, I am known as `Ze Green Terreur'. Perhapz you have heard of moi, non?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x022FDF> *"Screw you, pervert!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02308F> *Glare at it.
<Start Clock>

<label 0x022F97>
<cleartext> Huff... huff...
<waitpad> There's no way I can run any more. Besides, with that thing right behind me, there's no escape!
<waitpad><goto 0x22AC2>

<Label 0x022FDF>
<ClearText>"Pervert? Moi? Non, monsieur, you zimply do not underztand ma elegant nature!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0230AD>

<Label 0x02308F>
<ClearText><24, 56, 3C><Delay 0F> Ugh... That same strange feeling I got with that sunflower arises...
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, D6, 3C><Delay 0F><Goto 0x0230AD>

<Label 0x0230AD>
"No matter! Soon, le terreur shall be planted in your heart, for Kid'z death iz at hand! As a gentleman, I shall grant you the privilege of seeing zis happen before your very eyez."
<delay 0a><choice 0x023190> *"No! You can't!!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x023337> *"Isn't there anything else you can do?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x023190>
<ClearText>"Well, well, well! Look who knowz zo much all of a zudden! But alas, if you do not have the right kind of weapon, to defeat a monster such as ze Mandora is very difficult! Perhaps... how do you say... impozzible, non?"
<waitpad><cleartext>"...However!" Pollon says, pointing towards the cannon. "With one zingle shot of ma Hyper Magic Cannon, zat will be zat!"
<Waitpad> That cannon? I knew it was powerful, but... magical?
<Waitpad><ClearText> Taking another look at it, I notice that it's definitely not an ordinary cannon. There's no fuse at the end of the barrel. Instead, some ivy vines are connected to a pedestal, where a mysterious crystal ball sits.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x023424>

<Label 0x023337>
<ClearText> I plead from the bottom of my heart, begging to let her go.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, It iz very beautiful zat you feel zis way about her. But, alas, I am under employment, and I must deal wit' intruderz. I am zorry, but I cannot grant your wish," Pollon says, with a cheerful gesture of consolation.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x023424>

<Label 0x023424>
<ClearText>"Captain! There it is!!"
<waitpad> The goblin's shout strikes into my heart like a death sentence.
<Waitpad>"To the cannon, sir!" the guard says to Pollon.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Stop! Please!!" I holler, hopelessly trying to break free of the guards' restraint. However, they only tighten their grip on my arms, and tears begin to stream down my cheeks as the pain shoots in.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Monsieur, I offer you zis. Are zere any final wordz you would like moi to zay to zis friend of yours?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02358C> *"Au reviour, scoundrel Kid..."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0235ED> *"Adieu, petit-chested mademoiselle!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x023658> *"Please, I beg you... stop..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02358C>
<ClearText>"Oh, oui. When I fire ze cannon, I will say zat. I can tell, you must have had quite a few terrible experiencez wit zis fille, non?"
<Set 0x1521 to 01><Waitpad><Goto 0x023720>

<Label 0x0235ED>
<ClearText>"Oh, oui. When I fire ze cannon, I shall say zat. I can tell, you must have had quite a few fiezty experiencez wit zis fille, non?"
<Set 0x1521 to 02><Waitpad><Goto 0x023720>

<Label 0x023658>
<ClearText>"Ah, you really have true feelings for zis fille," Pollon says softly, taking out a handkerchief to wipe his tears.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I am most moved," he continues. "Perhapz when I finish her, I shall zay for you, `Adieu, ma che'rie! Wait for moi in hell, ma sweet!'"
<Set 0x1521 to 03><Waitpad><Goto 0x023720>

<Label 0x023720>
<ClearText> With a bittersweet smile on his face, Pollon skips toward the pedestal.
<Waitpad>"No! Stop!!"
<waitpad><cleartext> My grievous cries resound unanswered, echoing throughout the starry night sky. I can see some of the goblins have felt my side of the story, but Pollon remains unfazed.
<Waitpad><ClearText> <Call 0x027747><Volume 00, FF>"Well zen, let us begin!" he shouts, grasping the crystal ball with both hands. <PlaySound 23><Delay 0F>"Gonyogonyogonyogonyo... <Delay 0F>Fireball!!"
<Delay 14><PlaySound 1B><24, 16, 00><Delay 02><24, 96, 28><If 0x1521 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x02383D>"Au reviour, scoundrel Kid!"
<waitpad>

<Label 0x02383D>
<If 0x1521 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x02385D>"Adieu, petit-chested mademoiselle!"
<waitpad>

<Label 0x02385D>
<If 0x1521 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x02388D>"Adieu, ma che'rie! Wait for moi in hell, my sweet!"
<waitpad>

<Label 0x02388D>
 The barrel of the magical cannon flashes as a tremendous fireball is let loose!
<Waitpad><Call 0x027820><Call 0x0277E8><Delay 0F><Call 0x02757E><Delay 1E><ClearText><FadeIn F0, 28><Delay 14><FadeIn 90, 00> It shoots directly towards the monster, crashing into its torso with the impact of a two-ton battering ram! Explosive flames engulf the area, blowing me back with a gust of hot air!
<Waitpad>"Kid!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Oui! Oui! Finally, we are rid of zat horrible little mademoiselle! In ze past, such terrible experienzes have stemmed from her, non? But now, we shall worry about her no more! Ho, hohohoho!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"<textspeed 14>...<call 0x007474><delay 10>Kid..."
<waitpad> I fall to the ground, devastated. But even moreso is the dreadful feeling of regret I'm filled with.
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, suddenly, the goblin guards simultaneously call out in surprise! "Captain! Look!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> A giant figure of some kind seems to be emerging from the blazing explosion!
<Waitpad><Volume 00, 00><Volume 40, FF><PlaySong 0E><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 00><Call 0x027567><04, 1E, 00><Call 0x0276DD><Call 0x02752C><Call 0x02757E><Delay 1E><FadeIn F0, 28><Delay 14> As the smoke subsides, there stands the monster, completely unharmed!
<waitpad> Just as I thought, that pompous freak is no match for Kid! I breathe a sigh of relief, but then I realize I'm no further away from doom than before...
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 0D>"What? She livez!? How can zis be!?" Pollon screams incredulously, running toward me. The relaxed smile from earlier has now been replaced with nervous sweat.
<waitpad>"What kind of twizted magic iz zis!?" he frustratedly asks me.
<delay 0a><choice 0x023C2D> *"There's no way I'll ever tell you."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x023C43> *"It's impossible pour vous..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x023C2D>
<ClearText> I answer spitefully, trying to imitate his greasy smile.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x023C69>

<Label 0x023C43>
<ClearText> I answer sarcastically, trying to imitate that pompous accent of his, complete with landing a few drops of saliva on his putrid face.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x023C69>

<Label 0x023C69>
 Pollon turns bright red. "What!? Zpit it out, you little zwine!" he demands, furiously shaking me by my shirt!
<Waitpad> But then, all of a sudden...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x023CCC>

<Label 0x023CCC>
<ClearText><Call 0x027747><FadeOut 90, 00><Delay 03>


                     Aaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh...
<FadeIn 90, 50><delay 30><FadeOut 90, 50><Delay 03><Volume 40, FF><PlaySong 0F><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><delay 10> Like a howling wolf, Kid's voice echoes out throughout the grassy plain.
<Waitpad> A chill runs down my spine. Could it really be her, trying to break free from the monster...?
<Waitpad> As I stare up at her, silence and fear take hold. She's waving her hands around in the air, saying something in a slow, deep voice...
<Waitpad><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><Call 0x027588><FadeIn 68, 32><Delay 14><TextSpeed 04>



<FadeIn 90, 46>               "The dead who lurk in the dark..."

<delay 20><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><call 0x007474><Delay 1E><FadeIn 90, 3C> Quietly and solemnly, Kid's voice begins to echo out. That's her voice, all right, but it doesn't sound like her at all... that monster's still got a hold on her. It must be using her to summon another spell! As she continues to chant, a blue aura starts to form in front of her, shimmering with deadly beauty.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Eh? How can she do zat?" Pollon shrieks, now turning blue with fright. "No one can ztand up againzt ma cannon!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Adieu...!" he shouts, before quickly fleeing!
<Waitpad> The goblin chief follows soon after. "All troops, fall back! Retreat to the manor, on the double!!"
<waitpad> Following the goblin chief's orders, the soldiers abandon the cannon and flee to Viper Manor.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I'm left alone with this gigantic monstrosity, listening to it starting to summon who knows what. What am I supposed to do now...?
<delay 0a><Choice 0x023F35> *Run away! 
<Choice 0x023FF5> *Call for help!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x023F35>
<cleartext> I'm out of options, it seems... I don't stand a chance against this thing on my own. Hearing Kid continue to chant, my situation is looking worse and worse...
<waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x02759A><Delay 1E><FadeIn 90, 00> Just as I'm about to bolt for the mansion, something grabs hold of my shoulder!
<waitpad>"Going somewhere?"
<Waitpad> I slowly turn around.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0240C9>

<Label 0x023FF5>
<cleartext> My cries ring out in the night sky as I gulp down desperate gasps of air. However, the only response I hear is Kid's...
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x02759A><Delay 1E><FadeIn 90, 00> Just as I think I'm about to lose it, a voice echoes out from behind me!
<waitpad>"There you are."
<waitpad> Alarmed, I whip around instantly!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0240C9>

<Label 0x0240C9>
<ClearText>"Magil!"
<waitpad> Relieved, I try to catch my breath.
<Waitpad><cleartext><fadeout 90, 00><Call 0x027747><ClearText><Delay 1E><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 0E><Delay 1E><FadeIn 90, 00> He's changed -- a strange sort of glittering silver robe drapes down from his shoulders, and a bright ring shines across his entire back.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0241B7> *"Magil, what are we going to do!?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02424A> *"You made me wait here all that time just so you could change into that thing!?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0241B7>
<ClearText> I want to ask him about his new clothes and everything, but now isn't the time. Instead, I tell him all about what happened, the chain of events relentlessly overflowing from my heart.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0242E0>

<Label 0x02424A>
<ClearText> From behind his mask, Magil remains composed as ever, ignoring my question.
<Waitpad> He shifts his gaze over towards the beast. "This is a volatile situation, Serge."
<Waitpad> Clenching my fists, I try to forget about all this and keep in mind that Kid's the one who's important here.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0242E0>

<Label 0x0242E0>
<ClearText>"I tried to do what you told me to do, but..."
<Waitpad>"Yes. However for now, we should leave this area. It is not safe here."
<waitpad> Scooping me up under his arm, Magil briefly recites a spell, and soars high into the air!
<Waitpad> From far above, I look down upon the ominous landscape, hearing Kid continue to recite her strange incantation...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 32><ClearText><Call 0x027747><Delay 2D><Volume 40, FF><PlaySong 13><Delay 26><Call 0x0275E6><Delay 1E><FadeIn 90, 00><delay 08> I can barely make it all out from up here. But, from what I can tell, a faint, pale light is starting to drift all around the monster, causing the ball of light in Kid's hands to grow stronger and stronger. I wish I could do something, but... I don't know what to do!
<Waitpad><27, 00><FadeOut 90, 28><ClearText><Call 0x02763B><Delay 17><FadeIn 90, 00><Call 0x02767A><24, 45, 00><24, C5, 3C><Delay 0F><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><Call 0x027809><Delay 0F><Call 0x027588><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Call 0x02752C><FadeIn 90, 00><27, 01> With the sound of a thousand tortured voices of madness crying out in unison, Kid's surging ball of light begins to grow larger and larger, eating away at everything around her!
<Waitpad><Call 0x027847> The pale shimmering light slowly stretches outwards, swallowing up everything in its path, melting Viper Manor like fire on ice! It indiscriminately evaporates the huge mansion, along with everything else in its wake...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Delay 14><PlaySound 0A><FadeIn 6A, 00><Delay 02><FadeOut 6A, 00><Delay 02><PlaySound 0A><FadeIn 6C, 00><Delay 1E><PlaySound 0D><PlaySound 0D><FadeOut 2C, 5A><Delay 17><04, FF, 05><FadeIn 2C, 32><Delay 0F><ClearText> Stretching out more and more, the gigantic void eats away at everything, before disappearing into the ground...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00>"Unbelievable..."
<Waitpad> If Magil hadn't been here just now... Oh man, just thinking about it gives me chills.
<Waitpad><cleartext> A giant fissure has been created where Viper Manor once stood, continuing down into the ground farther than I can see.
<Waitpad><ClearText> And there, on the brink of this newly-formed ravine, stands Kid...
<Waitpad><cleartext>"She seems to be holding out," Magil says. "She's wrestling with the monster for control, but she's almost at her limit."
<Waitpad> I can barely hold back the impatience in my heart, looking down upon all this...
<Waitpad><cleartext>"What's going to happen to her? Don't let her die!!"
<waitpad>"Quiet, child!!"
<waitpad> Magil's unexpected outburst snaps me out of my nervousness.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Calm down, Serge."
<waitpad> He's right, I need to keep my cool. I don't think he needed to go about it like that, though...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Allow me to cast a levitation spell on you," he says, before muttering some arcane words. Shortly after, he gently releases me.
<waitpad> Whoa, I'm floating!
<Waitpad>"To fly, simply think about the direction you wish to travel."
<Waitpad> Nodding, I carefully try it out. He's right! This is amazing! I dart here and there, flying circles around him with ease!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Now, please let me see your knife."
<waitpad> I take it out and hand it to him.
<Waitpad> Magil takes out a white jewel from inside his robe, and again mumbles some strange sounding words. Suddenly, the jewel attaches itself to the hilt of my knife as though it were magnetized!
<Waitpad><cleartext> He hands the knife back to me, saying "I mentioned this to you before, but let me emphasize it again. Kid is bound to the monster's body because of her anger. As long as that bond exists, we will be unable to save her. To break it, I told you to show her your love."
<Waitpad>"But I don't understand how to do that!" I yell, pressing him for an answer.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Call 0x027747><Volume 00, FF><Delay 22>"A kiss."
<waitpad>"I have to kiss that thing?"
<waitpad>"Yes. It is the most effective way."
<Waitpad><PlaySong 05>"But... its arms are as wide as my waist! Why didn't you tell me this before!?" I yell, hitting him upside the head in a fit of rage!
<PlaySound 11><Waitpad><ClearText><volume 70, 00> And with that, I accidentally knock Magil's golden mask off, sending it falling down through the night sky to the ground!
<waitpad> Gulp... did I just do that?
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><Call 0x027747><Volume 40, FF><PlaySong 12><FadeIn 90, 00> This is the first time I've ever seen his true face.
<waitpad> Even for a guy like me, I'm taken aback by his looks. His hair sways in the moonlight, as his piercing blue eyes survey the environment below.
<Waitpad> His beauty is different than a woman's... there's some sort of a fierce, intrepid quality about him.
<Waitpad> He is truly... <TextSpeed 08>a beautiful person.
<call 0x007474><Waitpad><fadeout 90, 50><ClearText><delay 10><playsong 00><Call 0x027543><delay 08><fadein 90, 00> Magil's hand suddenly comes across my face, eagerly returning the blow.
<Waitpad><Volume 35, 00>"Serge, listen to me!"
<waitpad>"I'm okay now, I swear! I wasn't gawking!"
<Waitpad><PlaySong 00><ClearText><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 13>"If Kid uses one more spell, we will not be able to save her. Be sure to kiss her before that happens! However, if you are unable to do this before she finishes concentrating her magical power, you must thrust your knife into her heart! The jewel embedded in your knife holds the power to steal souls. Doing so will be dangerous, but it will be our last resort!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Listening to Magil's words, the possibilities run through my head.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Two choices...
<waitpad> Even though I can fly, it's going to be incredibly hard to get close enough to that thing to kiss her.
<waitpad> But, the alternative... I don't even want to think about that.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I'm going to start preparations for the exorcism. I will not be able to come to your aid during this time."
<Waitpad> Oh man... he's got to go away again? Could this get any more hopeless!?
<waitpad><cleartext> Taking a deep breath, I try to convince myself I should be facing Kid on my own anyways.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x024BED> *"I... I can't do it...!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x024CFC> *"Got it... I'll do my best!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x024BED>
<ClearText>"How can you hope to save her with feelings of doubt in your heart?" Magil shouts, seizing me by the collar. "You must save her! No one else can do it!"
<waitpad> Magil's words are as much of a scolding as they are a reinforcement. But still, I'm a nervous wreck.
<Waitpad><ClearText> He's right, I've got to do this. Just as he has things he must do, I too must face my destiny. I'm the only one who can do it! If i don't, we'll lose Kid forever!!
<Waitpad> His grip loosens, seeing the change in my expression.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x024CFC>

<Label 0x024CFC>
<Volume 50, 00><ClearText>"Yes, Serge... your determination is at the very core of this matter," he says, with his deep blue eyes fixed solidly on me. Strange, behind that seemingly impenetrable gaze of his, I swear I see a hint of compassion, somewhere within him...
<Waitpad><PlaySong 00><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><delay 15><Volume 30, FF><PlaySong 03><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 00x, 04y>                       "Well then, let's go."

<Delay 18><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Delay 0F><Indent 00x, 04y>        "Protect the girl you love with all your might,
                         and all your heart."
<Delay 17><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><delay 20><FadeIn 90, 00> As Magil's words resound into my head, an uproar of might rushes into my spirit.
<waitpad><cleartext> I'm going to save her... even if it kills me.
<Waitpad> The will to save the one and only Kid pulses through my body. I flash Magil a huge smile, and begin my descent...
<Waitpad><27, 00><FadeOut 90, 28><ClearText><delay 14><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 09x, 04y><TextSpeed 06>        For Kid...
<call 0x007474><delay 18><FadeOut 90, 78><ClearText><Delay 0F><Call 0x027857><Delay 1E><Volume 35, 00><ClearText><Call 0x02752C><Delay 0F><PlaySong 00><Delay 17><PlaySong 08><Volume A0, FF><Call 0x027567><04, 1E, 00><Delay 2D><FadeIn 90, 00> Soaring down through the air, I spot Kid at the edge of the chasm.
<Waitpad><FadeIn 6a, 78> She's aware of me as well. As the monster rises to its feet, she stares up at me with an infuriated look on her face.
<Waitpad><cleartext> She's changed...
<waitpad> Countless red veins have streaked across her body, pulsating with anger.
<Waitpad><cleartext> The monster's right hand arcs upward in a flash, trying desperately to grab me. I dodge at the very last second.
<waitpad> I zip behind its arm, coming within a dangerously close range.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x024F4F> *Try to cover her mouth up. 
<Choice 0x024FC4> *Unsheathe my knife.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x024F4F>
<ClearText> Come on... time this right...
<Waitpad> I reach out my right hand and carefully cover up her mouth, hoping to prevent her from completing the spell.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02507C> *Try to talk to her. 
<Choice 0x02522D> *Kiss her.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x024FC4>
<ClearText> As I stare at my unsheathed knife, a sudden wave of uncertainty comes over me.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x025004> *Rethink this. 
<Choice 0x025023> *Cut her up.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x025004>
 Yeah... the only way to really save her is with love!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x024F4F>

<Label 0x025023>
<ClearText> There's no end to the turmoil brewing inside me. My uneasiness turns to impatience as the grip on my knife tightens. I can't bear it if she was to die, but...!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0256B0>

<Label 0x02507C>
<ClearText>"Kid... I feel so much for you... I..." but before I can finish, she starts to strangle me!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x025104 after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x02518A> *Grab her arms and pry them off of me! 
<Choice 0x0251F0> *Kick her in the face!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x025104>
<ClearText> She relentlessly strangles me with both her hands! I can't take much more of this, for sure!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02518A> *Grab her arms and try to pry myself free! 
<Choice 0x0251F0> *Kick her in the face! 
<Choice 0x0256B0> *Unsheathe my knife!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02518A>
<ClearText> Urrghhh... she's so strong! There's no way I can break free!
<waitpad> No... I can't give up! I have to do this!!
<Waitpad><cleartext> I try again, this time with such ferocity, I use strength I didn't know I had!
<waitpad> There! Her grip is slipping! Yes! I free myself and instantly fly back a ways!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02530D>

<Label 0x0251F0>
<ClearText>"I'm sorry, Kid," I say in my head as I shove my heel high up in her face!
<call 0x000d89><Waitpad> Reeling backwards, the grip on my neck is loosened! Taking advantage of this momentary opportunity, I quickly move out of the way and fly back!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02530D>

<Label 0x02522D>
<ClearText> Moving up towards Kid's chin, I try to give her a kiss.
<Waitpad> However, she has other plans. She thrusts her right hand upward, clocking my jaw from underneath!
<call 0x000da0><delay 0a><Choice 0x025298> *Raise up my hands, hoping to shield myself from any more blows. 
<Choice 0x02530D> *Pull back for now.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x025298>
<ClearText> I desperately try to drive away her hands, but she manages to poke me in the eye!
<call 0x000da0><Waitpad><24, 16, 00> Ouch!
<waitpad> Tears roll down my cheeks as an intense pain shoots into my right eye. Could this get any worse?
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 3C><24, 96, 28><ClearText><Delay 0F><OR 0x151F with 80><Goto 0x0253B4>

<Label 0x02530D>
<ClearText> However, before I have time to react, the monster's left hand suddenly whips out at me!
<delay 0a><Goto 0x0253B4 after 0x00B4ms><Choice 0x025353> *Dodge!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x025353>
<ClearText> I can't back away any further! I have no choice but to head back and confront her again!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0255F0> *Take a deep breath, and try to kiss her once again. 
<Choice 0x0256B0> *Unsheathe my knife. 
<Choice 0x025838> *Fly around behind her.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0253B4>
<OR 0x151F with 40><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00> Suddenly, a tremendous pressure assaults my torso!<Call 0x027543>
<Waitpad> Looking around, I realize the monster's caught me in its huge hand!
<Waitpad> It brings me up towards Kid, with her morbid stare fixed solely on me...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Her lips turn into a gloating smile, before changing into a billowing, hateful laugh. She reaches out and places her right hand on my forehead, and then, a stream of red starts to pour from her mouth!
<waitpad><cleartext> Oh no... she's starting another spell!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0254C2> *"Kid! No! Listen to me, don't cast that spell!!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0254DD> *Try to break free!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0254C2>
<ClearText> I holler out with all my heart, hoping there's any part of her real self still left!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02550C>

<Label 0x0254DD>
<ClearText> Twisting and turning with all my strength, I struggle to escape from my bonds. However, the monster's grip isn't loosened one bit!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02550C>

<Label 0x02550C>
<ClearText> However, her expression remains unchanged as her unblinking eyes dance around erratically.
<Waitpad> Suddenly a trace of light begins to form in the palm of her hand. Red streaks begin to rise up along her body!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid!!!!!"
<Waitpad> Then, suddenly, a ring of light comes flying at us from overhead, cutting into the monster's arm like a hot knife through butter!
<call 0x000d89><waitpad> I fall to the ground with the monster's arm, instantly released from its excrutiating grip!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Serge! Now!!" Magil shouts from high above!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x025891> *Dart upwards and try to kiss her again!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0255F0>
<ClearText> Soaring up in an instant, I deftly position myself near her head.
<Waitpad><Call 0x027543> Bam!
<waitpad> I'm knocked backwards in a daze as I try to recover from the headbutt she just landed on my forehead. My vision suddenly turns dark...
<Waitpad><cleartext> Amidst my daze, something seems to have been snatched from my side.
<waitpad> Oh no... where's my knife!? Oh no, she's trying to stab me with it!
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x0259FF after 0x005Ams><Choice 0x02568F> *Dodge!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02568F>
<ClearText><PlaySound 14> The knife pierces nothing but air as I quickly dart to the side.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x025838>

<Label 0x0256B0>
<ClearText> That familiar feeling of dread runs through me again, but I then start to think of how I could never manage to make my way past that hulking monster. As I stare into those fearfully dark eyes of hers, I ready my knife...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x027747><Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 12><24, 16, 00> I lunge the knife outwards! Kid raises her arms to protect herself from the blow, but it strikes her square in her heart! Fresh blood gushes out onto my hand and the blade!
<Waitpad> Then, suddenly, the white jewel begins to sparkle!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0D><24, 7F, 28><Delay 0C><24, FF, 28><Delay 0C> I regretfully watch Kid writhe in agony, her hands now a dizzying mess of blood as the jewel shimmers brighter and brighter!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid! Kid!!" I call out, but to no avail. She only continues to cry out in pain, writhing madly. I just hope I didn't choose the wrong path, resorting to violence...
<Waitpad> Suddenly, her body goes limp, and the jewel turns a solid milky white. I soar over, gathering her up in my arms, hoping everything will be all right.
<Waitpad><PlaySong 03><Volume 15, FF><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><Delay 2D><FadeIn 90, 00><TextSpeed 04><Indent 00x, 00y>"Please, God! Save her!" I shout, with tears flowing down onto her limp body.
<Delay 2D><FadeOut 90, 78><Call 0x027747><call 0x007474><Goto 0x026DCE>

<Label 0x025838>
<ClearText> It's not long after I've zoomed around behind her that the monster's gigantic hand starts swatting at me!
<Waitpad> This is my last chance! If I don't act now, it'll be the end for sure!
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x025922> *Swiftly move in!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x025891>
<ClearText> Heeding Magil's order, I go for it!
<waitpad> Reaching my hand out towards her ever beautiful face, I hesitatingly move in towards her lips.
<Waitpad><Call 0x02752C><Call 0x027747><PlaySong 03><Volume 20, FF><Call 0x027590><ClearText><FadeIn ED, 50><fadein 90, 00><Delay 14>
<Choice 0x0259BD> *Please, God... save her... 
<Choice 0x0259DE> *Kid... come back... 
<Choice 0x0259DE> *I can't do it without you, Kid...
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x025922>
<ClearText> I confront her head on, placing my left arm on her shoulder while supporting her chin with my right.
<waitpad> And then, with a deep breath, I move in toward her lips.
<Waitpad><Volume 60, 00><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><Delay 2D><PlaySong 00><PlaySong 03><Volume 60, FF><Call 0x027590><FadeIn ED, 50><fadein 90, 00><Delay 3C>
<Choice 0x0259BD> *Please, God... save her... 
<Choice 0x0259DE> *Kid, come back, please... 
<Choice 0x0259DE> *I can't do it without you, Kid...
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0259BD>
<cleartext><FadeOut 63, 3C><TextSpeed 08><Indent 00x, 04y>                  I silently pray to myself...
<Delay 4B><Goto 0x025C3A>

<Label 0x0259DE>
<ClearText><FadeOut 63, 3C><TextSpeed 08><Indent 00x, 04y>              The words echo out in my head...
<Delay 4B><Goto 0x025C3A>

<Label 0x0259FF>
<PlaySound 12><Volume 50, 00><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><Delay 26><PlaySong 00><Delay 17><PlaySong 03><Volume A0, FF><Delay 1E><FadeOut 50, 3C><Delay 1E><TextSpeed 04><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 00x, 04y> My knife, which remained faithfully at my side until moments ago, is now...
<waitpad> ...Deep within my chest.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Indent 00x, 04y> It doesn't hurt...
<Waitpad> But, my heart... it's so cold. All I can think of is how cold my heart is, as I stare at Kid, still holding onto the hilt of the knife. My chest is so warm, but... so... cold.
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 10><Indent 00x, 04y> Kid...
<waitpad> The thoughts in my head fade into the increasing chaos...
<waitpad> All I wanted to say to her has all but faded with the coldness in my heart.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 78><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 00x, 04y><call 0x007474> ...No... it can't end like this!
<waitpad> Wait... what's that? The jewel! The one in the knife's hilt! It's sparkling!
<waitpad> Somehow, I feel a momentary burst of energy flow into me. Trying desperately to stay coherent, I lift myself up, and reach out to her.
<Waitpad><call 0x007474><Call 0x02752C><Call 0x027590><ClearText><FadeIn ED, 50><fadein 90, 00><Delay 14>

<Choice 0x025BCD> *I'll trade my life for hers. Please, God... save her... 
<Choice 0x025BE7> *Kid... come back, please... I love you... 
<Choice 0x025C01> *Please don't die, Kid. Together, with my soul...
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x025BCD>
<Set 0x1520 to 01><Call 0x025C2E><textspeed 04>                  I silently pray to myself<Goto 0x025C1B>

<Label 0x025BE7>
<Set 0x1520 to 02><Call 0x025C2E><textspeed 04>              The words echo out in my head<Goto 0x025C1B>

<Label 0x025C01>
<Set 0x1520 to 03><Call 0x025C2E><textspeed 04>                  I silently pray to myself<Goto 0x025C1B>

<Label 0x025C1B>
<TextSpeed 3C>...
<call 0x007474><Delay 30><Goto 0x025F66>

<Label 0x025C2E>
<ClearText><Delay 0F><FadeOut 65, 3C><Delay 19><Indent 01x, 04y><Return>

<Label 0x025C3A>
<Volume 60, 00><FadeOut ED, B4><Delay 2D><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><call 0x007474><FadeIn 90, 00><delay 20>"Well done, Serge! Hold her tightly to you, and leave the rest to me!!"
<waitpad> Hearing that voice, I slowly open my eyes. All I see before me is Kid's face, hollow and listless...
<Waitpad><ClearText> I'm so scared... I hug her tighter than I've ever hugged her before, quietly sobbing as I kiss her again and again.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Volume 00, FF><playsong 00><Call 0x02782E> Looking up, I see Magil floating among a sea of clouds. Hanging there in midair with his arms folded, his dazzling figure glitters like gold.
<Waitpad><FadeIn 70, 30> Suddenly, the clouds beneath him open up as he darts downward, aiming directly for us!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 32><ClearText><Call 0x027840><Call 0x02752C><TextSpeed 04><Call 0x027735><Call 0x02773B><FadeIn 44, 3C><PlaySound 1A><Indent 02x, 02y><FadeIn 90, 78> "The moon comes forth... Its goddess speaks...
<Delay 17><Indent 03x, 03y> I am summoned by the will to vanquish evil...
<Delay 17><Indent 03x, 04y> Goddess of the Moon, lend me your power...
<Delay 17><Indent 03x, 05y>  Scourge the insolent evil from this world..."
<Delay 2E><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><Delay 1E><FadeIn 90, 00><Indent 03x, 04y>                      "...Now!!"
<delay 10><FadeOut 90, 78><ClearText><FadeOut 45, 28><Delay 0F><call 0x007474><Call 0x02752C><FadeIn 90, 00> The golden ring printed on Magil's cape shines brighter and brighter as he swoops down onto us!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 28><ClearText><Call 0x02785D><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 19><Call 0x027851><Delay 08><Call 0x02752C><Call 0x027735><FadeIn 90, 00><Call 0x027751><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><FadeIn F0, 00> Centered on Kid, the collision creates a huge explosion, spreading over the monster's entire body!
<Waitpad> My first instinct is to back away, but I remain by her, hugging her body tighter than ever! Somehow, the explosive flames don't seem to harm me!
<waitpad><cleartext> Soon after, the flames begin to subside. I slowly open my eyes, only to see the spell on Kid has been broken! She's been separated from the monster!
<waitpad><cleartext> I hold her body tightly to me as I fly away with her, far out of the reach of the incapacitated monster.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Looking back, the monster begins to pulsate with a white light, causing the battered monster's body to shake and tremble. Shimmering sparks dance around its body, circling the beast faster and faster, until the entire scene is a glistening ball of light!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 28><Delay 14><ClearText><Call 0x02756C><Volume 80, 00><Delay 14><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00> Soaring further and further away from the calamity, I look back again only to see the monster implode into a single point of light. Having left no trace of the disaster that took place before, the small point of light briefly zips around like a firefly, disappearing into the night sky in a flash.
<Waitpad><PlaySong 00><Goto 0x026391>

<Label 0x025F66>
<Call 0x027747><FadeOut ED, B4><Delay 2D><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 02><Delay 17><Call 0x027866><ClearText>


<TextSpeed 04><FadeIn ED, 64><fadein 90, 00> ...Dry leaves drift down from the trees, covering the vast landscape bit by bit. Autumn turns to Winter, then to Spring, Summer, and finally Autumn once again. Time travels on, the everlasting impartial arbiter...
<Delay 14><FadeOut 8D, 3C><ClearText><call 0x007474><FadeIn F0, 00><FadeOut 83, 3C><Delay 2F><fadein 90, 00> Somewhere in a vast forest, a small, isolated hut stands in solitude. Built by the men of a nearby village, it's used mainly for when loggers come to fell the trees of the forest.
<Waitpad> However, on this particular day, it has a different use.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 8D, 28><ClearText><delay 20><Call 0x0276C3><fadein 90, 00> The front door opens from the inside, and a large framed man steps out.
<Waitpad> Obviously not a man from the nearby village, he wears a dark gothic tunic, and a porcelain mask on his face.
<waitpad><FadeOut 8D, 28><ClearText><delay 20><Call 0x0276C3><fadein 90, 00> Inside the hut, a girl sits with her back turned to the door. Wrapped in a blanket, her shoulders shudder uncontrollably...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 8D, 28><ClearText><delay 20><Call 0x0276C3><fadein 90, 00> Grasping a knife with a peculiar jewel embedded on its hilt, she weeps endlessly.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 8D, 28><ClearText><delay 20><Call 0x0276C3><fadein 90, 00>"Magil told me everythin' after I was pulled from that monster.
<Waitpad> Serge... you sacrificed yerself to save me. But now, it's yer soul's that's trapped in here. Why me... why'd I have to live...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 8D, 28><ClearText><delay 20><Call 0x0276C3><fadein 90, 00> He tells me that yer bound to that jewel because it's a magic artificial body. But, if we make a clone for ya, we might be able to bring ya back..."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 8D, 28><ClearText><Indent 00x, 00y><TextSpeed 04><Call 0x0276C3><fadein 90, 00>"I wanna go, to help Magil... to help you..."
<delay 20><FadeOut 8D, 3C><ClearText><FadeIn 8D, 00><Indent 00x, 01y>"But... I'm so sad..."
<delay 20><FadeOut 8D, 3C><ClearText><FadeIn 8D, 00><Indent 00x, 02y>"I can't stop cryin'..."
<Delay 2D><FadeOut 8D, 50><call 0x007474><ClearText><delay 20><Call 0x0276C3><fadein 90, 00> Serge... Magil never told me, but I knew... I always knew... Yer final thought, after you'd been sealed in the gem...
<Waitpad><Call 0x02752C><Call 0x027590><ClearText><FadeIn EA, 50><Delay 2D><FadeIn 85, 00><Indent 00x, 04y><TextSpeed 04><If 0x1520 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x026319>      "I'll trade my life for hers. Please, God... save her..."

<Label 0x026319>
<If 0x1520 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x026348>           "Kid... come back, please... I love you..."

<Label 0x026348>
<If 0x1520 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x026371>      "Please don't die, Kid. Together, with my soul..."

<Label 0x026371>
<delay 20><FadeOut 8A, 3C><ClearText><Delay 0F><FadeOut 68, F0><Call 0x02752C><Delay 41><Set 0x14CF to 00><Set 0x14D0 to 01><Set 0x14D1 to 00><Goto 0x02750D>

<Label 0x026391>
<FadeOut ED, B4><cleartext><Delay 2D><Call 0x02752C><PlaySong 01><Volume A0, FF><Delay 3C><ClearText><FadeIn F0, 00><delay 20> Looking down, I can't help but grin as I see the familiar sight of Kid's face. The green in her skin is rapidly fading, returning to the normal color it once was.
<Waitpad>"Kid... it's going to be okay..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"There is no need to worry. Once her spirit settles, she will awaken. Here, put this on her. It wouldn't be too good if she was to wake up like that," Magil says, holding out his silver cape.
<Waitpad> Yeah, if she wakes up like this, it'll be slaps and bruises for everyone...
<Waitpad><ClearText> I take the cape and quickly wrap it around her limp body.
<Waitpad><TextSpeed 06>"M..."<call 0x007474>
<waitpad> She's coming to!
<waitpad> My heart races. I look at her face, seeing her eyelids start to tremble.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Good morning, Kid!" I say, still a bit nervous.
<Waitpad><TextSpeed 06>"Serge... Magil..."<call 0x007474>
<waitpad> She groggily moves her eyes around, left and right...
<waitpad> And then, after that brief, subdued moment...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x027747><TextSpeed 04>"You two... dammit, ya saw me naked, didn't ya..."
<call 0x007474><Waitpad> Shocked, I look up at Magil, but he's nowhere to be seen...
<Waitpad><ClearText> How could he leave me alone with her at a time like this! Why can't I be the one with the power of the shadows...
<Waitpad> Kid stares at me with those ever-fiery eyes of hers...
<Waitpad><ClearText><TextSpeed 04>"Hey, you kissed me too!?"<call 0x007474>
<waitpad><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 08> How could she remember any of that... dammit, Magil...
<delay 0a><choice 0x0266DA> *"Yes... I kissed you."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x026749> *"What? You must have been dreaming or something..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0266DA>
<Volume 15, 00><ClearText> Letting out a deep breath, I answer truthfully...
<waitpad> But before I can finish, <PlaySong 00><PlaySong 05><Volume 00, FF>"Yeah, just like I thought! Tryin' to sneak in a quick peck when I'm knocked out!!" she yells, rising to her feet, slapping me again and again!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0267D8>

<Label 0x026749>
<Volume 15, 00><ClearText><PlaySong 00><PlaySong 05><Volume 00, FF> Kid stretches her arms out, grabbing me by the collar! As she begins to slap me senseless, I remind myself that I'd probably be getting the same treatment even if I had told the truth...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0267D8>

<Label 0x0267D8>
<ClearText><Call 0x027543>"...And I'd never been kissed before!
<Delay 0F><Call 0x027543> The nerve!
<Delay 0F><Call 0x027543><Call 0x027543> Ya bastard!<Call 0x027543> Ya bastard!!<Call 0x027543> Ya bastard!!!"
<Call 0x027543><Call 0x027543><waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, she stops and looks at me. It's over...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hell no, this ain't over!!"
<PlaySound 0A><24, 7F, 00><Delay 02><24, FF, 1E><Delay 0A> She lands a solid punch square on my jaw, as her shouting continues to tear through my eardrums!
<call 0x000da0><Waitpad> Amidst all the commotion, the silver cape she was wearing accidentally slips off. Momentarily thrown off guard, she quickly bends down to cover herself back up.
<waitpad> Heh.
<Waitpad><ClearText><volume, 20, 00> Wait, what's that on the ground? Kid seems to notice it as well, completely forgetting about me.
<Waitpad> She bends down, picking it up. It's some sort of large black and white striped object. Holding it up, I try to see what it is <delay 03>(from a safe distance). It looks like it's some sort of seed...
<waitpad> Yeah, it's a sunflower seed. But it's so big... bigger than a fist!
<Waitpad> However, this only seems to add more fuel to her fire...
<Waitpad><ClearText><playsong 00><playsong 05><volume 00, ff><PlaySound 15><Call 0x027741>"Grrrr..... rrraaaaaaaahhhhh!!"
<waitpad> She stomps on it! And stomps! And stomps! And stomps and stomps and stomps and stomps and stomps and stomps and stomps and stomps and stomps!!
<waitpad><cleartext><PlaySound 00><Call 0x027744> Then, she picks it up, and hurls it upwards with all her might!
<Waitpad>"Gonyogonyogonyogonyo..."
<Waitpad><Set 0x1514 to 01><Set 0x1515 to 00><ClearText>"Kid!" shouts Magil, suddenly behind her.
<Waitpad>"Kid! No!" he roars. But it's useless... she's locked into another one of her tantrums!
<waitpad>"Gonyogonyogonyogonyo... fireball!"<delay 14>
<Call 0x027820><Call 0x0277E8><Delay 0F><cleartext><volume 00, ff><FadeIn 90, 00> Disregarding him completely, she sends a huge fireball streaking upwards to the seed!
<Waitpad>"That sunflower seed! It's worth 1,000,000,000 Gold!!" Magil shouts, just as the seed explodes!
<playsound 0e><waitpad> Kid suddenly looks over at Magil, but... it's too late.
<Waitpad><ClearText><ClearText><Delay 30><playsong 04> The look on her face is one I don't think I've ever seen before.
<Waitpad> Having just realized what she's done, her anger fades into a trememndous feeling of regret. She slumps over, silently staring into her hands.
<waitpad> I can't believe a single seed could fetch such a price. It was a pretty big seed, though...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Be calm, Kid," Magil says. "As you see now, you've had the power to use magic in you all along. The sunflower merely brought it out of you. However, as you see, magic is a very temperamental thing. In time, you may learn to control it."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey, come on, Kid! We didn't come away from this empty-handed! You've learned how to use magic, that's nothing to be down about!" I add, trying to make the best of things.
<waitpad><cleartext> Magil softly puts a hand on her shoulder. However, she quickly turns away from us without saying a word. Her eyes are overflowing with tears...
<Waitpad><delay 10><FadeOut 90, 32><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><delay 20><Indent 00x, 00y><textspeed 04> Sigh...<Delay 26> looks like it might be a while before things get back to normal.
<delay 20><Set 0x14CF to 00><Set 0x14D0 to 00><Set 0x14D1 to 00><Goto 0x02750D>

<Label 0x026DCE>
<ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><delay 20>"Kid..."
<Waitpad> There's no response.
<Waitpad> I timidly put my hand near her mouth. She's... not breathing...
<waitpad> And... there's no pulse...!
<Waitpad><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><Delay 1E><Indent 00x, 00y><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 07><FadeIn 90, 28> Kiiiiiiiidddd!!!!
<Delay 24><Fadeout 90, 68><ClearText><fadein 90, 00><delay 10> I hold her body tightly to my own, as the rest of the monster's body collapses and crumbles away...
<Waitpad><ClearText> I cry... and hold her tightly... and cry.
<Waitpad> Suddenly, Magil comes up from behind me. "Serge, Kid is not dead. Her spirit has moved on from that body, but she continues to lives on, inside that jewel."
<waitpad><ClearText> I stare down at the knife I hold in my hand.
<Waitpad> The white jewel is there in the hilt, sparkling brighter than ever. But despite what Magil says, I can't seem to hold back my sadness and tears...
<Waitpad> Hugging Kid's lifeless body, I cry...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Suddenly, he forcibly pulls Kid away from me.
<Waitpad>"Magil! What are you doing!?"
<waitpad>"How long do you intend to whimper over this? If you've decided to save her, then save your tears for another day! It's not over yet!"
<Waitpad> I stand up, realizing he's right.
<Waitpad><delay 20><FadeOut 90, 4C><Call 0x027747><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00>"Kid's body is as replaceable as her clothes. If we can find her a new body, we will be able to bring her back," he tells me, softening his tone.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x0270A4> *"I see... I'm sorry, Magil."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x027251> *"New clothes!?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0270A4>
<ClearText> I apologize for my outburst.
<Waitpad>"If I were Kid, I probably wouldn't have let you get away with all that," Magil says jokingly.
<waitpad> Hey, I was just hugging her...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Let us go, Serge. There is no sense in staying here any longer."
<Waitpad>"Go? Where?"
<Waitpad>"To search for a clone for Kid."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"A... clone?"
<Waitpad>"I will explain later. But before that, we will need to store this body somewhere."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"All right. I wonder, what could this new clone be?"
<waitpad><ClearText><TextSpeed 04><Indent 06x, 04y>      "A dragon, maybe?"
<Set 0x14CF to 00><Set 0x14D0 to 00><Set 0x14D1 to 01><Goto 0x02750D>

<Label 0x027251>
<ClearText>"Kid's new body."
<Waitpad>"What!? Kid has another body?" I blurt.
<Waitpad>"Please listen and try to understand what I say. Kid doesn't have another body. currently, Kid is bound to this jewel as a magic artificial body. However, we may be able to bring her back if we find a living body that meshes with her spirit. For this, I will be performing a ritual of an ancient magic legacy, known as a `Sacred Host' spell."
<waitpad><cleartext> Wow... ancient magic. I'd heard of this kind of thing before, but I had no idea there was anyone alive still capable of performing it...
<Waitpad> Hesitant to believe him, I ask "Do you think you can do it?"
<waitpad> With an intimidating look in his eyes, Magil turns his glance away from me as he begins to chant to himself. The leaves all around us begin to rustle up from the ground, scattering up in a vortex.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"From Dragon, to Wolf... from Beetle, to Imp, to Lizard... from evil men, to a man among men..."
<waitpad> In succession, Magil's enchantment echoes all around us. Hearing his low, rumbling voice, I find myself more and more hypnotized by his presence...
<Waitpad><ClearText> But Kid... I can't have her turning into any one of those. If she's turned into a Dragon, I'll be nothing more than her next meal!
<Waitpad> We'll have to find an absolutely stunning clone for her...
<Waitpad> The world's a huge place. There has to be a clone out there that'll do... there has to be!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Indent 00x, 00y>"From Imp, to Heckran, to Lavos... choose any one you like. I recommend the Lavos host; it's the strongest of all."
<Waitpad><fadeout 90, 40><ClearText><fadein 90, 00><delay 10><TextSpeed 04><Indent 03x, 04y>     "Thanks, Magil... I've made up my mind."
<delay 18><Set 0x14CF to 00><Set 0x14D0 to 00><Set 0x14D1 to 01><Goto 0x02750D>

<Label 0x02750D>
<Call 0x027747><delay 08><fadeout 90, 80><Volume 00, FF><Call 0x02752C><ClearText><call 0x007474><FadeIn F0, 00><Set 0x1495 to 01><27, 01><Delay 26><Delay 26><Goto 0x00048C>

<Label 0x02752C>
<FadeOut F0, 3C><ClearBG><04, FF, 00><04, FF, 01><04, FF, 02><04, FF, 03><04, FF, 04><04, FF, 05><Return>

<Label 0x027543>
<PlaySound 11><24, 16, 00><Delay 02><24, 96, 00><Return>

<Label 0x02754E>
<26, 0D><0A, 3D><Return>

<Label 0x027553>
<04, 1B, 01><04, 1C, 02><04, 1D, 03><26, 0A><Return>

<Label 0x02755F>
<04, 1A, 00><Return>

<Label 0x027563>
<04, FF, 00><Return>

<Label 0x027567>
<26, 01><0A, 16><Return>

<Label 0x02756C>
<Call 0x027567><Delay 0A><PlaySound 0F><24, 7F, 3C><Delay 19><ClearBG><24, FF, 3C><Return>

<Label 0x02757E>
<26, 01><0A, 30><04, 3F, 00><26, 1C><Return>

<Label 0x027588>
<26, 01><0A, 31><04, 46, 00><Return>

<Label 0x027590>
<26, 01><0A, 2F><04, 2A, 00><26, 0B><Return>

<Label 0x02759A>
<TextSpeed 04><ClearText><FadeOut 90, 00><Indent 00x, 04y><FadeIn 90, 50>             "Hatred and jealousy in my hands..."
<Delay 0F><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><delay 20><Indent 00x, 04y><FadeIn 90, 50>         "Gather into a thousand dark prayers..."
<Delay 0F><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><call 0x007474><Return>

<Label 0x0275E6>
<TextSpeed 04><ClearText><FadeOut 90, 00><Indent 00x, 04y><FadeIn 90, 32>                  "The fallen angel, Arcmyst..."
<Delay 0F><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><delay 20><Indent 00x, 04y><FadeIn 90, 3C>      "Answer my prayer, and grant me thy power..."
<Delay 0F><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><call 0x007474><Return>

<Label 0x02763B>
<TextSpeed 04><ClearText><FadeOut 90, 00><Indent 00x, 04y><FadeIn 90, 28>                  "Death to all living things..."
<Delay 0F><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><delay 20><Indent 00x, 04y><FadeIn 90, 28>                  "Destruction to all creation..."
<Delay 0F><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearText><call 0x007474><Return>

<Label 0x02767A>
<TextSpeed 04><ClearText><Indent 00x, 04y>                        "Devour all light..."
<Delay 0F><FadeOut 90, 1E><Delay 0A><ClearText><Indent 00x, 04y><FadeIn 90, 00><FadeIn 68, 28>                       "Phantom... Break...!"

<call 0x007474><Return>

<Label 0x0276C3>
<FadeOut 8D, 00><FadeIn 8D, 28><Return>

<Label 0x0276CA>
<24, 45, 00><Delay 02><24, C5, 00><Delay 08><24, 4A, 00><24, CA, 00><Delay 0A><Return>

<Label 0x0276DD>
<FadeIn 63, 00><24, 16, 00><Call 0x02772A><FadeIn 64, 00><24, 16, 00><Call 0x02772A><FadeIn 65, 00><24, 16, 00><Call 0x02772A><FadeIn 66, 00><24, 16, 00><Call 0x02772A><FadeIn 67, 00><24, 16, 00><Call 0x02772A><FadeIn 68, 00><24, 16, 00><Call 0x02772A><24, 16, 00><FadeIn 68, 00><Delay 0F><24, 96, 5A><Delay 1C><FadeOut 68, 28><Return>

<Label 0x02772A>
<Delay 02><FadeOut 6A, 00><24, 86, 00><Delay 02><Return>

<Label 0x027735>
<ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 15><Return>

<Label 0x02773B>
<26, 36><Return>

<Label 0x02773E>
<26, 29><Return>

<Label 0x027741> - used to be <26, 28>
<Return>

<Label 0x027744> - used to be <26, 2A>
<Return>

<Label 0x027747>
<Volume 40, 00><Delay 20><PlaySong 00><Delay 02><Return>

<Label 0x027751>
<PlaySound 15><FadeIn 43, 00><24, 46, 00><Call 0x0277DD><FadeIn 44, 00><24, 46, 00><Call 0x0277DD><FadeIn 45, 00><24, 46, 00><Call 0x0277DD><FadeIn 46, 00><24, 46, 00><Call 0x0277DD><FadeIn 47, 00><24, 46, 00><Call 0x0277DD><FadeIn 48, 00><24, 46, 00><Call 0x0277DD><24, 46, 00><FadeIn 49, 00><PlaySound 0A><FadeIn 47, 1E><Indent 00x, 04y>"Gyyaaaah!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Delay 0F><PlaySound 1D><24, 7F, 3C><Delay 0F><Indent 00x, 04y><Goto 0x0277D5 after 0x0082ms><Choice 0x0277D5>                    Lunachant Ringforce Kick!!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0277D5>
<ClearText><ClearBG><24, FF, 3C><Delay 12><Return>

<Label 0x0277DD>
<Delay 02><FadeOut 4A, 00><24, C6, 00><Delay 02><Return>

<Label 0x0277E8>
<27, 00><26, 01><PlaySound 10><Volume 60, FF><0A, 05><FadeIn 70, 3C><0E, 04, 08, 70><Start Clock><Call 0x02752C><Volume 10, 00><Delay 08><PlaySound 00><27, 01><Return>

<Label 0x027809>
<26, 01><PlaySound 16><Delay 1E><0A, 05><25, 02><FadeIn 70, 3C><0E, 04, 08, 70><Start Clock><Call 0x02752C><Return>

<Label 0x027820>
<Volume 20, 00><FadeOut 90, 28><ClearText><PlaySong 00><Call 0x02752C><Return>

<Label 0x02782E>
<26, 01><0A, 65><25, 20><04, 7C, 00><04, 7D, 01><04, 7E, 02><26, 46><Return>

<Label 0x027840>
<26, 4B><Delay 40><Delay 10><Return>

<Label 0x027847>
<26, 01><0A, 66><04, 80, 05><26, 4C><Return>

<Label 0x027851>
<04, 79, 00><26, 48><Return>

<Label 0x027857>
<04, 77, 00><26, 49><Return>

<Label 0x02785D>
<26, 01><Delay 02><26, 4E><0A, 66><Return>

<Label 0x027866>
<26, 01><0A, 2E><04, 71, 01><FadeIn 30, 23><Delay 0A><FadeOut 30, 23><Delay 12><04, FF, 01><ClearBG><Return>

<Label 0x031337>
<Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 03><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x058008>
<Volume ff, 00><FadeOut F0, a0><delay 60><clearbg><Call 0x00096A><PlaySong 0E><Volume 60, ff>
<TextSpeed 00><ClearText>



                             <85, 68><85, 8D><81, 40><85, 60><85, 4D><85, 63><85, 4D><81, 40><85, 51><85, 50><85, 4F><85, 50><delay 20><FadeIn F0, 60><delay 40><call 0x007474>
                        <85, 76><85, 80><85, 91><81, 40><85, 96><85, 80><85, 92><81, 40><85, 81><85, 84><85, 86><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 8D><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 86><delay 50><set 0x14a0 to 01>

<FadeOut F0, 60><delay 40><clearbg>
<cleartext><Call 0x00097A><0E, 01, 12, 0F><FadeOut 70, 08><0E, 03, 05, 06><Call 0x0009B4><FadeIn F0, 20><delay 10>




<85, 62><85, 80><85, 8F><85, 93><85, 80><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 59><81, 40><85, 76><85, 87><85, 80><85, 93><81, 40><85, 87><85, 80><85, 8F><85, 8F><85, 84><85, 8D><85, 5E><delay 08>
<85, 6C><85, 84><85, 82><85, 87><85, 80><85, 8D><85, 88><85, 82><85, 59><81, 40><85, 72><85, 8E><85, 8C><85, 84><85, 8E><85, 8D><85, 84><81, 40><85, 92><85, 84><85, 93><81, 40><85, 94><85, 8F><81, 40><85, 94><85, 92><81, 40><85, 93><85, 87><85, 84><81, 40><85, 81><85, 8E><85, 8C><85, 81><delay 08>
<85, 6E><85, 8F><85, 84><85, 91><85, 80><85, 93><85, 8E><85, 91><85, 59><81, 40><85, 76><85, 84><81, 40><85, 86><85, 84><85, 93><81, 40><85, 92><85, 88><85, 86><85, 8D><85, 80><85, 8B><delay 08>
<85, 62><85, 80><85, 8F><85, 93><85, 80><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 59><81, 40><85, 76><85, 87><85, 80><85, 93><85, 40><delay 08>
<85, 6E><85, 8F><85, 84><85, 91><85, 80><85, 93><85, 8E><85, 91><85, 59><81, 40><85, 6C><85, 80><85, 88><85, 8D><81, 40><85, 92><85, 82><85, 91><85, 84><85, 84><85, 8D><81, 40><85, 93><85, 94><85, 91><85, 8D><81, 40><85, 8E><85, 8D><85, 4D><delay 20>

<fadeout 90, 20><FadeOut 70, 20><delay 20><clearbg>
<cleartext><fadein 90, 00><Call 0x000D3C><FadeIn 6A, 18><Delay 32>



<85, 62><85, 80><85, 8F><85, 93><85, 80><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 59><81, 40><85, 68><85, 93><85, 46><85, 92><81, 40><85, 98><85, 8E><85, 94><85, 40><85, 40><delay 10>
<85, 62><85, 80><85, 93><85, 92><85, 59><81, 40><85, 67><85, 8E><85, 96><81, 40><85, 80><85, 91><85, 84><81, 40><85, 98><85, 8E><85, 94><81, 40><85, 86><85, 84><85, 8D><85, 93><85, 8B><85, 84><85, 8C><85, 84><85, 8D><85, 40><85, 40><delay 10>
<85, 62><85, 80><85, 93><85, 92><85, 59><81, 40><85, 60><85, 8B><85, 8B><81, 40><85, 98><85, 8E><85, 94><85, 91><81, 40><85, 81><85, 80><85, 92><85, 84><81, 40><85, 80><85, 91><85, 84><81, 40><85, 81><85, 84><85, 8B><85, 8E><85, 8D><85, 86><81, 40><85, 93><85, 8E><81, 40><85, 94><85, 92><delay 10>
<85, 62><85, 80><85, 93><85, 92><85, 59><81, 40><85, 78><85, 8E><85, 94><81, 40><85, 80><85, 91><85, 84><81, 40><85, 8E><85, 8D><81, 40><85, 93><85, 87><85, 84><81, 40><85, 96><85, 80><85, 98><81, 40><85, 93><85, 8E><81, 40><85, 83><85, 84><85, 92><85, 93><85, 91><85, 94><85, 82><85, 93><85, 88><85, 8E><85, 8D><delay 30>

<fadeout 90, 20><FadeOut 70, 20><delay 20><clearbg>
<cleartext><Call 0x00097A><0E, 01, 12, 0F><FadeOut 70, 08><0E, 03, 05, 06><Call 0x0009B4><fadein 90, 00><FadeIn 70, 20><delay 10>





<85, 62><85, 80><85, 8F><85, 93><85, 80><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 59><81, 40><85, 76><85, 87><85, 80><85, 93><81, 40><85, 98><85, 8E><85, 94><81, 40><85, 92><85, 80><85, 98><85, 5E><delay 08>
<85, 62><85, 80><85, 93><85, 92><85, 59><81, 40><85, 78><85, 8E><85, 94><81, 40><85, 87><85, 80><85, 95><85, 84><81, 40><85, 8D><85, 8E><81, 40><85, 82><85, 87><85, 80><85, 8D><85, 82><85, 84><81, 40><85, 93><85, 8E><81, 40><85, 92><85, 94><85, 91><85, 95><85, 88><85, 95><85, 84><81, 40><85, 8C><85, 80><85, 8A><85, 84><81, 40><85, 98><85, 8E><85, 94><85, 91><81, 40><85, 93><85, 88><85, 8C><85, 84><delay 08>
<85, 62><85, 80><85, 93><85, 92><85, 59><81, 40><85, 67><85, 80><81, 40><85, 87><85, 80><81, 40><85, 87><85, 80><81, 40><85, 4D><85, 4D><85, 4D><85, 4D><delay 08>
<85, 6E><85, 8F><85, 84><85, 91><85, 80><85, 93><85, 8E><85, 91><85, 59><81, 40><85, 62><85, 80><85, 8F><85, 93><85, 80><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 40><85, 40><delay 20>

<fadeout 90, 20><FadeOut 70, 20><clearbg><Call 0x0009D5><delay 20>
<cleartext><fadein 90, 00><Call 0x0009e8><FadeIn 70, 64><Delay 30>
<85, 62><85, 80><85, 8F><85, 93><85, 80><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 59><81, 40><85, 73><85, 80><85, 8A><85, 84><81, 40><85, 8E><85, 85><85, 85><81, 40><85, 84><85, 95><85, 84><85, 91><85, 98><81, 40><85, 7F><85, 79><85, 68><85, 66><85, 46><85, 40><85, 40><delay 10>
<85, 62><85, 80><85, 8F><85, 93><85, 80><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 59><81, 40><85, 6C><85, 8E><85, 95><85, 84><81, 40><85, 7F><85, 79><85, 68><85, 66><85, 46><85, 4D><delay 10>
<85, 62><85, 80><85, 8F><85, 93><85, 80><85, 88><85, 8D><85, 59><81, 40><85, 65><85, 8E><85, 91><81, 40><85, 86><85, 91><85, 84><85, 80><85, 93><81, 40><85, 89><85, 94><85, 92><85, 93><85, 88><85, 82><85, 84><85, 4D><delay 40>

<Volume 60, 00><FadeOut F0, 60><delay 20><clearbg><cleartext><fadein 90, 00><playsong 0F><volume ff, 60><call 0x007474><Goto 0x058106>

<Label 0x02787C>
<AND 0x1522 with 80><Set 0xE41E to 19><8b, c0, 80><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x027897><Goto 0x02789B><Goto 0x02789B>

<Label 0x027897>
<Goto 0x0287B2>

<Label 0x02789B>
<ClearText><Call 0x0039DB><Call 0x000AFD><Call 0x000B03><delay 10><FadeIn 6A, 1E><delay 10><If 0x14C4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x027953>"Oh, it's just a small kitchen."
<Waitpad>"For the servants, probably," I add.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I look around the tiny room. There's a sink, pots and pans, and a bunch of food in the cupboards. A rat hangs in a cage off in a corner, but aside from that, it's a pretty average kitchen.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x02795F>

<Label 0x027953>
 We've returned to the kitchenette.
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x02795F>
 Kid walks over to a deep saucepan and peers inside.
<waitpad>"Mmm... smells fresh. Want some grub, Serge?"
<delay 0a><choice 0x0279C9> *"Uhh, sure..."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x027C45> *"What!? No way!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0279C9>
<ClearText> I timidly peer into the saucepan. It looks like some sort of stew. Using the ladle on the stove, I reach in and take a big scoop...
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x027A4E> *"Mmmm, delicious!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x027BC1> *"Barf!! What is this stuff?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x027A4E>
<ClearText> Kid looks at me again. After a moment of hesitation, she comes over. "Quit hoggin' it all for yerself, mate!" she says, taking the ladle and sniffing the warm mixture.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Want some, Magil?"
<waitpad>"No, thank you."
<Waitpad> We take some bowls from the shelves, and serve ourselves some more.
<Waitpad><If 0x14CA doesn't equal 00 goto 0x027B8A><Set 0x14CA to 01> As we eat more and more, the stew's warmth flows all through us! I feel great!
<PlaySound 24><24, 4F, 1E><Delay 0F><24, CF, 1E><Delay 0A><Add 1E to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x027B86><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x027B86>
<Goto 0x027BB8>

<Label 0x027B8A>
 My belly starts to bulge as I eat scoop after scoop of the warm, delicious stew.


<Label 0x027BB8>
<OR 0x1522 with 40><Waitpad><Goto 0x027CB5>

<Label 0x027BC1>
<ClearText>"Aw, c'mon... It's not so bad. Yer always such a picky eater..."
<Waitpad> We continue to walk around, searching through the cabinets and drawers.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x027CB5>

<Label 0x027C45>
<ClearText>"In a place like this? Are you kidding? Rats like that one over there are probably the main ingredient!"
<Waitpad> Ignoring me, Kid smacks her lips, taking a scoop of the stuff.
<waitpad>"You havin' any, Magil?"
<Waitpad>"No, thank you."
<Waitpad>"Awright, well, I don't see why. It's great!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x027CB5>

<Label 0x027CB5>
<ClearText> But then, all of a sudden, a quiet shrill voice echoes out. It seems to be coming from over by the cage. "Ah, what an independent young lad... are all the boys wearing braids these days?"
<Waitpad> I stop and look at Kid.
<Waitpad><If 0x14C4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x027D1C>"Who's there!?"
<waitpad><Goto 0x027D29>

<Label 0x027D1C>
"You still think she's a boy!?"
<waitpad>


<Label 0x027D29>
<ClearText> Looking over in the direction of the voice, we see nothing but the single rat. It stares at us with its small, beady eyes...
<Waitpad>"Ah, excuse me... <If 0x14C4 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x027DAE>you're a girl, not a boy."
<waitpad><Goto 0x027DC1>

<Label 0x027DAE>
I forgot she was a girl."
<waitpad>

<Label 0x027DC1>
 It looks like Kid can't decide whether to be puzzled or infuriated by all this. But just between you and me, I don't think this is the first time her personality has led someone to think she's a guy...
<waitpad><ClearText> At any rate, the brown rat continues. "Listen, please, kind humans! I am trapped within a most unfortunate situation. While on my way to the kitchen this morning to bring home some food for my mother, goblins seized me and trapped me here in this cage! Unless I can escape, I am to be a side-dish for their next meal!"
<waitpad><Set 0xE41E to 19><8b, c0, 40><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x027E91> Still a bit agitated at its last remark, Kid stares at the rat suspiciously.
<Goto 0x027EB9>

<Label 0x027E91>
 A side-dish...?
<Waitpad> Listening to the rat, Kid walks over to the sink.


<Label 0x027EB9>
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Please, you must help me! My desperately ill mother awaits my return!" the rat pleads, its eyes twinkling in the light.
<Waitpad><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x027F53> Kid shrugs her shoulders, letting out a sigh.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x027F78>

<Label 0x027F4E>
<Goto 0x027F78>

<Label 0x027F53>
 However, I look over towards Kid. She's over by the sink, her face getting redder and redder...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x027FD0>

<Label 0x027F78>
<ClearText>"Aw, don't cry. Here, we'll let ya go."
<Waitpad> Setting the cage down on the floor, Kid opens the cage door.
<PlaySound 01><Waitpad><Goto 0x028198>

<Label 0x027FD0>
<ClearText>"Stupid rat! Don't even know a lady when ya see one!" Kid yells, stomping out of the kitchen.
<Waitpad>"Oh, young lady... I did not mean to..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> With Kid gone, the rat turns towards me. "Brother... help me..."
<Delay 0A><Choice 0x0280F4> *Help it out. 
<Choice 0x028140> *Abandon it.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0280F4>
<ClearText><Set 0x14CB to 01>"I understand."
<waitpad> I open the cage door.<playsound 01><delay 0a> The rat quickly scurries out.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x028198>

<Label 0x028140>
<ClearText>"I'm sorry, I have to check on my friend," I say reluctantly, hurrying after Kid.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02877A>

<Label 0x028198>
<ClearText>"Heh, heh," the rat laughs, as a strange smile comes over its face. "You really are a bunch of fools."
<waitpad> Spitting out those words, the rat suddenly starts to tremble, before rapidly growing in size, growing larger and larger by the second!
<Waitpad><cleartext><ClearBG><FadeOut 70, 14>

<Label 0x028241>
<ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Volume 00, FF><Call 0x000B53><FadeIn 6A, 3C><PlaySong 05> It's a gryphon!!
<Waitpad>"Stupid humans. You're just in time for lunch! My mother's, that is!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14CB doesn't equal 00 goto 0x028305>"Damn these monsters...!"
<Goto 0x02834E>

<Label 0x028305>
"Dammit Serge, ya walked right into its trap!!"
<Subtract 14 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x028330><Set 0x1515 to 01>

<Label 0x028330>
<Waitpad> Oh man... what was I thinking?


<Label 0x02834E>
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0F><Delay 0F> The gryphon rises up onto its hind legs, screeching and flapping its huge wings! Suddenly, its sharp talons swoop down out at us!
<Delay 0A><Goto 0x0283AB after 0x00C8ms><Choice 0x0283AB> *Hit the deck! 
<Choice 0x0283AB> *Jump back!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0283AB>
<ClearText> I frantically try to dodge the beast, hoping to avoid those terrifying three-inch claws. I manage to avoid its blow, but I'm now cornered into the back of the room!
<waitpad> As it inches near me for a strike, it rises up onto its hind legs once again, this time even higher than before!
<waitpad><cleartext> However, in a moment of blind luck, the gryphon suddenly loses balance on the slippery floor and comes crashing to the ground!
<PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D7D><Waitpad>"Urrghhh..."
<Waitpad> Wow, talk about close calls... I let out a breath of relief as I stand over the gryphon, wondering what to do next.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7>"So, ya ugly little rat... now who's stupid?"
<Waitpad>"Uhh.... wait! Please, I beg you, kind, beautiful human girl!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I am aware of valued information! If you promise to spare my life, I will tell you a special secret of the mansion!"
<Waitpad>"I dunno... you lied already, ya bugger... I'd rather just kill ya and have it be over with," Kid says, taking a step closer.
<waitpad><Cleartext>"Kid, let us hear what he has to say," Magil says, coming between them. Kid pauses for a second, and then steps back.
<Waitpad>"Th, thank you!"
<Waitpad>"That woulda been fun..." Kid says, shrugging.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"One day, you too may find yourselves within my situation, caged in on all sides! If such a fate comes to pass, remember these directions, and your lives shall be spared!
<waitpad> Right three steps...
<delay 08> Left two steps...
<delay 08> Right two steps...
<delay 08> And then you'll see!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> No sooner than it says this, the gryphon transforms back into a rat, scurrying off into a crack in the wall.
<Waitpad><fadeout 70, 50>"I sure hope sparin' that thing was worth it. Who knows when it'll sneak up on us next..."
<OR 0x1522 with 80><Waitpad><Set 0x14C4 to 01><Goto 0x00FCE9>

<Label 0x02877A>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><delay 0a> Heading out of the kitchen, we head back down the passageway...
<Waitpad><Set 0x14C4 to 01><Goto 0x00FCE9>

<Label 0x0287B2>
<ClearText><Call 0x0039DB><Call 0x000AFD><FadeIn 6A, 14> We return to the kitchenette.
<Waitpad> The rat and its cage are gone. The stew is also nowhere to be found.
<waitpad> We leave the kitchen, wary of whoever else that could have been here...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02877A>

<Label 0x028809>
<ClearText><Call 0x0039F4><Delay 05><Call 0x000C45><FadeIn 70, 14><Set 0x14C3 to 01><If 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x028827><Goto 0x037EC4>

<Label 0x028827>
<If 0x1493 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x028837><Goto 0x02883B><Goto 0x02883B>

<Label 0x028837>
<Goto 0x02AA2A>

<Label 0x02883B>
<ClearText><If 0x14AB doesn't equal 01 goto 0x02884C><Goto 0x028850><Goto 0x028850>

<Label 0x02884C>
<Goto 0x02AA2A>

<Label 0x028850>
<ClearText> Various trinkets are scattered around this decorative room, adding a bit of charm to an otherwise dreary mansion.
<Waitpad> A luxurious desk and a light, fluffy bed add to the elegant nature.
<Waitpad><cleartext><delay 10>"Is someone there?" a woman's voice asks all of a sudden. Kid and I instantly hide behind a closet, ready for anything.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000C5A><Delay 0A> A fair girl comes into view from out of a dark corner.
<Waitpad>"Hmm... it must have been my imagination," she says, apparently not yet aware of us.
<Waitpad> I remain perfectly still while holding my breath, wondering what to do next.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Then, all of a sudden, a shadow over by the desk begins to tremble!
<Waitpad> Magil...!
<Waitpad> He suddenly materializes, placing himself directly across from the girl.
<Waitpad><ClearText> She's overcome with shock, seeing this. In desperation, all she can do is muster out the words "Who... what... what do you want...?"
<Delay 0A><Call 0x000C5E><Choice 0x028B05> *"We're thieves, but..."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x028A29> *"We're here because of the invitation in the newspaper."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x028A29>
<ClearText>"Ah, you're just in time," she replies without question, nervously playing along with my lie.
<Waitpad> Kid subtly jabs me in the side. "Why do ya always have to be tellin' those clumsy lies!?"
<Waitpad> Staring at the two of us, she backs away in fright. "Who are you people...?" she asks, unable to mask her increasing fear.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x028C05>

<Label 0x028B05>
 I hope this girl can recognize a good thief when she sees one...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"We're thieves, but we mean you no harm," I say hesitantly, wondering if that came out right.
<Waitpad> Kid stares at me doubtfully, most likely confused by what I'm getting myself into.
<Waitpad> Seeing the situation unfold before her eyes, the girl stands there with a blank look on her face, pale as a ghost. "Who are you people...?" she asks, unable to mask her increasing fear.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x028C05>

<Label 0x028C05>
 Magil steps in and speaks in a comforting tone. "I apologize on behalf of my party if we startled you. We intend no harm, my lady."
<Waitpad> Despite his persuasiveness, the girl seems to remain unconvinced, and starts to panic. "Stop, thieves! Don't come any closer!"
<Waitpad> This is hopeless...
<delay 0a><choice 0x028CCD> *Tie her up and gag her. 
<Choice 0x028D49> *Threaten her, hoping she'll faint.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x028CCD>
<cleartext> I move over to the bed and start to pull off the sheets. Kid comes over and helps, saying, "Whaddaya say we toss her in the dresser."
<Waitpad> Magil approaches us and grabs the sheets out of our hands before we can make our move. With a look of pity in his eyes, he looks back towards the girl.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x028DDD>

<Label 0x028D49>
<cleartext> I unsheathe my knife, bringing it up to eye level as I take a step closer.
<Waitpad> Seeing me, the girl buries her face in her hands, retreating back.
<Waitpad> But suddenly, Magil darts over to me and strikes the knife out of my hand, hurling it towards the floor.<playsound 0e><delay 0a> With pitied eyes, he again looks towards the girl.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x028DDD>

<Label 0x028DDD>
<ClearText> She seems shocked at this turn of events to say the least, not knowing what to think.
<Waitpad>"Sorry Magil, I was only trying to do what's best," I say, ashamed.
<Waitpad> However, before Magil can respond, the girl takes a breath, and turns to us to speak.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Volume 10, 00><PlaySong 08><Volume 40, 64><Delay 0F>"Magil? You're Magil? ...Did you once go by the name... Gilbert?"
<waitpad> Hearing that name, Magil takes on a look of shock.
<waitpad><ClearText>"Riddel? Is that you?" he says in a surprisingly vulnerable tone.
<Waitpad>"Gilbert! It's really you! My dear, dear Gilbert," she says, taking his hand.
<waitpad> Gilbert? What the...?
<Waitpad><cleartext>"I have worried about you ever so much," he says in a deeply sentimental voice.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid, suddenly tinged with anxiety, interrupts the two.
<Waitpad>"Hey, lovebird! We're here for the Frozen Flame, not damsels in distress, remember?"
<Waitpad>"The Frozen Flame?" asks Riddel, bewildered.
<Waitpad>"Ah yes... these are my companions," Magil says in his usual, dry tone a moment later.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid and I glance at each other.
<Waitpad>"This evening is a blessing, bequeathed to us by that shimmering red jewel's fate," Magil says to Riddel.
<Waitpad> Oh, brother... All this girl stuff is starting to unravel him...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid's starting to get agitated, however. I've got a feeling there are few things that could keep her from getting the Frozen Flame tonight, and none of them wear high heels.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Despite her increasing impatience with the situation, Magil goes on... and on... <Call 0x000C6A>"...Ever since my childhood, I have thought of you... My heart has yearned ever so madly, only for you."
<waitpad>"Oh, Gilbert..."
<waitpad>"It is true, my dear Riddel. Therefore... about the promise..."
<Waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, Riddel turns away from Magil. "Promise?" she asks in a voice so quiet it's almost inaudible.
<Waitpad><Volume 20, 78>"Yes, my dear... surely you haven't forgotten our secret promise... the one we made to each other on that beautiful day in the garden. You have not forgotten the vows of marriage we bestowed on one another, have you?"
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000C70> Riddel continues to avert her eyes form Magil. "I will hear no more of this childish nonsense!" she shouts, burying her head in her hands once again.
<delay 0a><choice 0x029246> *Ask if there is any interest at all left in her. 
<Choice 0x029521> *Ask if there is someone else.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x029246>
<ClearText>"You... you do not want me?" Magil asks in a trembling voice.
<Waitpad>"Magil... this is all so sudden, to meet like this..."
<Waitpad>"So our promise was meaningless?"
<Waitpad> Despite Magil's logic, he's overshadowed by Riddel's bitter tone.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"There are some things in our past that I will not forget, Gilbert! Once, you were given some delicious-looking homemade cookies for your fifth birthday, but you would not share them with anyone! And another time, at one of the village festivals, I remember wanting to dance with you, but you never asked me to. I waited all night!"
<Waitpad> Why does she still hold grudges for things that happened so long ago...?
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It is all a misunderstanding, Riddel! I wanted to ask you to dance, but I did not have the confidence...!" Magil frantically explains.
<Waitpad>"And you suddenly appear, hoping to fix everything with a mere apology!?" Riddel counters, despite the glistening tears beginning to form on her long eyelashes.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Bollocks, mate. Ya sure got yerself in a tight spot here, with all this marriage talk," Kid adds, supporting Riddel.
<Waitpad>"Yes, but... I... I believe you, Magil," Riddel says softly, starting to smile as she wipes her tears. Kid scowls.
<Waitpad> I'm staying out of this, I say to myself. I've got enough problems with my own love life...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0298BD>

<Label 0x029521>
<ClearText>"...Is there someone else?" Magil asks after a moment or two, barely able to keep himself composed.
<Waitpad>"Gilbert, I..."
<waitpad> She breaks off, unable to finish the sentence. Her shoulders sag as she starts to lament again.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Sheesh, Magil... talkin' to her like that ain't gonna help! Save yer issues for Lynx!" Kid interjects, bringing Magil back to reality.
<waitpad> Riddel continues to sob, more and more bewildered by the moment.
<Waitpad>"This is hopeless, mate! We've wasted enough time here, we gotta get goin'!"
<Waitpad><cleartext>"But as it is, leaving this lovely lady alone would be a mistake. She may tell someone about us, or perhaps she's in danger," Magil says to Kid, staring at Riddel.
<Waitpad>"Sheesh, I know why you wanna stay here, and it ain't that," Kid says, rolling her eyes.
<Waitpad>"Kid, please, leave this to me!" Magil shouts.
<Waitpad> Riddel, watching all this, stares at Magil intensely, probably now wondering if he's the one with something to hide.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Magil feverishly explains. "Please allow me to introduce Kid, a business associate of mine."
<Waitpad> Kid, bored to tears, does her best to get us out of this situation. "Business associate? Is that what yer callin' me now? Aw c'mon, mate... just last night you were..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Dammit! I can't believe she's saying this!
<waitpad> I rush to cover her mouth up with my hands, saying, "Er... she's a little confused right now, don't mind her... heh..."
<waitpad> After a moment Kid stops wrestling me and I let go of her. Teeth marks as red as blood stand out on my fingers...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Gilbert... you really think I'm a lovely lady?"
<Waitpad> Seeing a new ray of hope before his eyes, Magil picks up where he left off. "Only of the loveliest kind, my lady. Indeed, it's true, you have blossomed into a fair and delicate young woman."
<Waitpad> I'm staying out of this, I say to myself. I've got enough problems with my own love life...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0298BD>

<Label 0x0298BD>
<ClearText> But then, suddenly, another voice echoes out, entering in through the doorway! "Mistress Riddel, you will remember to mind your manners around our guests, won't you?"
<Waitpad> Who's this?
<Waitpad>"Oh Noelle, you know how I dislike it when you call me Mistress!" Riddel exclaims.
<Waitpad><ClearText> She continues, slightly embarrassed. "This is Gilbert, Noelle. Surely you remember him from long ago, when I was but a child."
<Waitpad> After a while, it dawns on the elderly woman that she once knew this man, and an expression of recognition comes over her face. "Ah, yes... Master Gilbert. All grown up, I see. And what a fine gentleman you turned out to be!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Aw, now we're never gettin' outta this," Kid says, sitting down on a couch with her head in her hands.
<Waitpad> Could this still be a trap, I wonder...
<delay 0a><Choice 0x029E21> *"Don't relax just yet, Kid. I think we're being double-crossed. Do you think we could manage to take Riddel hostage?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x029A9D> *"Let's let Magil do what he thinks is best, Kid..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x029A9D>
<ClearText> I stoop down to where Kid's sitting and whisper, "Magil's got more experience than us... I think we should let him handle this."
<waitpad> Kid goes utterly numb.
<Waitpad> The maid notices us whispering to each other and takes a step backwards.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Well... who is this young lady?"
<Waitpad>"Ah, these two are my business associates," Magil says, offering a simple introduction.
<Waitpad>"...I... I see. Since Master Gilbert says so, I will extend my welcome to you. I am Lady Riddel's personal servant. My name is Noelle."
<Waitpad>"Nice to meet you."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Delay 0F>"I have known Master Gilbert ever since he was a wee lad..."
<Waitpad><PlaySong 02><Volume 80, 64> She goes on, telling us about various things from their past. It seems like they've had quite an illustrious upbringing.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"...And so, Master Gilbert and Lady Riddel often shared one another's company, stealing each other's eyes. However, one day, he was whisked far away..."
<Waitpad>"Could this get any more exciting?" Kid asks.
<Waitpad> Noelle and Kid exchange looks, but she continues momentarily after recomposing herself.
<Waitpad>"...Once, in a secret meeting at their favorite flower garden, an oath was made between the two. In that beautiful courtyard, future prospects were indeed planned upon..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Delay 08> However, the maid's eyes darken as she continues.
<Waitpad><Volume 10, 00><PlaySong 08><Volume 80, 6E>"But, as everyone knew, Lady Riddel had already been assigned a suitor!"
<Waitpad> Riddel's shoulders sink upon hearing this. "Noelle! Why did you have to mention that! Now our oath is void!"
<Waitpad> Magil's eyes shimmer in the dim light.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Through all this, Kid has been just about pushed to her limit. Unable to be obedient any longer, she stands up, eyes flaring.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x029F1C>

<Label 0x029E21>
<cleartext> I stoop down to where Kid's sitting and whisper my plan to her. However, the maid notices us conspiring and takes a step backwards.
<Waitpad> We stop once we notice we're being stared suspiciously by just about everyone in the room.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Umm... er, no, we're not what you think, ma'am!" I stutter, trying to level with her. "We were simply here for the Frozen Flame, and..."
<waitpad> Wait... what am I saying? Why can't I just keep my mouth shut next time...
<Waitpad>"Fool," Kid says with an icy glance.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Glancing over her shoulder, Kid takes a deep breath. "This's useless. Quick, let's get em!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x029F1C>

<Label 0x029F1C>
<ClearText> Kid leaps out ahead of Magil, confronting the two. "Listen up! I'm the great thief, Kid! And we're here tonight in this mansion to..."
 But she's broken off by the maid! "How dare you, you rude young lady! Surely you know better than to act in such a way before the Lady of the House!"
<Waitpad>"Hah! You got somethin' comin' to ya, you old wench!" Kid snarls, now eye to eye with Noelle.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Magil quickly comes between the two, first addressing the maid. "Please, do not worry. I have never shown any malice towards you or Riddel, nor have I ever meant any harm and I will not allow any to happen in the future. Please accept my apologies on my accomplice's behalf."
<waitpad>"Master Gilbert..."
<Waitpad><cleartext> Continuing on, he then turns towards Kid. "Perhaps it would be best if we left."
<waitpad>"Huh!?"
<Waitpad> Kid and Noelle exchange glances.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Then, at the same time, one single idea seems to pop into both Noelle's and Kid's minds.
<Waitpad>"What in blazes are ya thinkin'? Runnin' off with Riddel!?" Kid yells, at the very same moment Noelle shouts "What in the world, m'lady! How could you think of elopement at a time like this!?"
<Waitpad> Magil's mouth drops wide open. "No, that is not what I meant..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> But it's useless. The yelling resumes, louder than ever, hopelessly drowning out Magil's reasoning.
<Waitpad>"What kind of a gentlemen do you think you are!? Honestly, thinking of eloping without telling a single soul!" Noelle ensues, before stomping out of the room in a rage.
<Waitpad>"Dammit, we gotta think about the Frozen Flame here!" Kid shouts, tugging on Magil's shirt.
<Waitpad><ClearText><goto 0x058001>

<Label 0x058001>
 Riddel doesn't seem to be very happy either, having once again regressed into tears.
<Waitpad> Magil's vow of love seems to be on its last leg. I'm starting to wonder if there's any hope for this situation at all anymore...
<Waitpad><cleartext> In any case, Riddel can't possibly want to be burdened with all this torment. If I could just talk her down out of all of this commotion, it might be all right. If only I had more options...
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x02A234> *"It won't be a bad life, living with him. He's a good guy."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02A30C> *"You do want to escape this terrible mansion, don't you?"
<choice 0x058008>
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02A234>
<ClearText><Volume 40, 82>"A good thief, perhaps! Everyone I know would be ashamed to talk to us!" Riddel whimpers.
<Waitpad>"Whaddaya got against thieves now!? Ain't nothin' wrong with bein' a thief. It's an honorable job, ain't it, Magil?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 10, 96>"<textspeed 08>...<delay 10><call 0x007474>If Riddel wishes it, I will hereby end my career as a pilferer. Therefore, we..."
<delay 05>"M... Magil??"
<waitpad> Kid and I are floored. This girl must really, really be something...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02A3E8>

<Label 0x02A30C>
<ClearText><Volume 40, 82>"I do not intend to leave this house!" Riddel says in a strict tone. "What kind of lifestyle could you hope to provide for me, compared to this?"
<Waitpad>"True, my lady, you do live in the lap of luxury here. But look around, is this truly where you want to be?"
<waitpad>"My foster father will not allow it... it would not work out... Oh Gilbert, why must you do this to me!?"
<Waitpad><Volume 10, 96><ClearText>"Please, be calm, Riddel. I have more than enough savings to cover a down payment for marriage funds and a new home," Magil reassures. "In addition, honeymoon travel expenses will be provided from wedding gift money!"
<Waitpad> Mentioning the wedding gift money, Magil glances at us.
<waitpad> Gulp...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02A3E8>

<Label 0x02A3E8>
<cleartext><Volume 40, 00><Delay 23><Call 0x000DB7><Volume 00, FF> Magil's presented a good case, but I just don't know if Riddel's swallowing it all.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 2F> Suddenly, alarms blare out all around us!
<Waitpad>"Damn that bloody maid!"
<Waitpad><PlaySound 00><ClearText><PlaySong 05> What do we do now!? Flustered, I look to Magil.
<waitpad>"We must be on our way," he says.
<waitpad> Riddel nods after a moment. "Indeed, it's best for you to leave tonight," she says. "In time, perhaps you may return. Then, I might be able to look upon you as a friend."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DA0> A friend... a friend...
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DA0><Call 0x000DA0> Hearing that word in terms of their relationship seems to strike through Magil's heart like a searing hot knife.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 10>"No! I will not leave here without you," he yells suddenly! "Riddel, please, I beg you! Come with me, now!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 00> Footsteps can be heard from down the hallway.
<waitpad>"The guards are coming for us! Quickly!"
<Waitpad> Magil lightly picks Riddel up, putting her over his shoulder as he makes for the door!
<Waitpad>"They're getting closer!" Kid says, peeking around the corner.
<Waitpad><ClearText> With his cape gallantly fluttering behind him, Magil bolts down the hallway!
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 3C><ClearBG><Delay 0A><Call 0x000D02><FadeIn 70, 3C> Come on, they're right behind us!
<Waitpad> Oh no, there they are, right there!
<waitpad><Call 0x000D89> Hah! Like a hurricane, Magil effortlessly rams one of the guards into the wall while I knock the other senseless without even stopping!
<Call 0x000D89><Call 0x000D89><Call 0x000D89><delay 0a>
<cleartext><FadeOut 70, 3C><ClearBG><Delay 0A><Call 0x000DB7><Volume 10, 00><PlaySong 0F><Volume 20, A0><Call 0x000B07><FadeIn 70, 3C><delay 30> At last, we've slipped out of the huge mansion.
<waitpad> I'm utterly exhausted. I gasp huge breaths as I stumble down onto a nearby grassy clearing, deep in the woods.
<Waitpad> But suddenly, thunderous booms start to echo out from far behind us!
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 2E><24, 5F, 28><Delay 0D><PlaySound 29><24, DF, 14><Delay 0A><Delay 08><PlaySound 2E><24, 6F, 28><Delay 0D><PlaySound 29><24, EF, 14><Delay 0A><PlaySound 2E><24, 2F, 28><Delay 0D><PlaySound 29><24, AF, 14><Delay 0A><Call 0x000DB7> Looking up into the open nighttime sky, fireworks of all colors adorn the starry evening.
<Waitpad> I stare upwards, dumbfounded.
<Waitpad>"What's goin' on?" Kid asks.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Then, through the trees, I look up at the mansion, and all my questions are answered. There, we see all the occupants of Viper Manor, waving and cheering for us.
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 04>"Long live Mistress Riddel!"
<waitpad>"Hip hip, hooray!"
<waitpad>"Good luck!"
<waitpad>"We'll all be over for brunch once you're settled!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> Then, Kid nudges me, pointing to the rooftop.
<waitpad> And there, Lord Lynx sits solemnly with a tear in his eye, waving to us.
<Waitpad>"The father of the bride..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Riddel lifts her head up to speak, briefly pausing from her joyful sobs.
<waitpad>"All this fuss... all this fighting..."
<Waitpad>"It is I who should be apologizing, my lady," Magil says, putting his forehead to hers, wiping her cheek with his handkerchief.
<Waitpad>"Oh Gilbert, it's the same old you," she says, sighing.
<Waitpad><ClearText><fadeout 70, 90><delay 50><textspeed 04> From far across the landscape, a deep, shimmering light begins to fill the sky.
<waitpad>"Look, Riddel... there's our Frozen Flame," Magil says, pointing towards the morning sun.
<Waitpad><delay 20><FadeOut F0, F0><Delay 0F><ClearText><ClearBG><delay 20><FadeIn 90, 00>


          Magil: Caught Between Love and Adventure
                                The End<delay 30>
<FadeOut 90, 78><volume ff, 00><Delay 3C><ClearBG><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><Set 0x1494 to 01><Goto 0x00048C>

<Label 0x02AA2A>
<ClearText> We come to a comfortably decorated room. Small trinkets have been placed on the desk and shelves, adding some charm. The owner of this room has obviously gone to great lengths to try and bring a somewhat graceful lifestyle into this otherwise dark mansion. Still, the room seems to carry an unsettling stillness with it.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14D7 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02AAFD>"Bet it's Lynx's daughter's room," Kid says, surveying some of the items.
<Waitpad><Set 0x14D7 to 01>

<Label 0x02AAFD>
<If 0x14BB doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02AB0D><Goto 0x02AB11><Goto 0x02AB11>

<Label 0x02AB0D>
<Goto 0x02B2F6>

<Label 0x02AB11>
<ClearText><If 0x14D5 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x02AB1E><Goto 0x02B235>

<Label 0x02AB1E>
<Set 0x14D5 to 01> The letter on the desk and the warm teacup hint of a woman living here. However, after searching the room, no one is found.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000C4E> All we find are various odds and ends:<delay 03> a beautifully arranged set of flowers, a white handkerchief carelessly tossed aside, a small bottle of perfume, and so on. Although this stuff adds atmosphere to the room, none of it is really worth anything to us.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid also seems to feel this way, disregarding most of the stuff in here. She picks up a small box, decorated with a serpentine coat of arms. However, like the rest of the items in here, it looks like it's of little worth to us.
<Waitpad> Hmm... what should I do now?
<Call 0x000C5E><Delay 0A><Choice 0x02B04F> *Check the bed. 
<Choice 0x02AC8B> *Ask Kid to open the small box. 
<Choice 0x02AE3A> *Check the dresser drawers.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02AC8B>
<ClearText> As Kid slowly opens the box, a comforting melody fills the air.
<Waitpad><Volume 10, 00><Delay 0A><Volume 00, C8><Delay 01><PlaySong 02><Delay 0F><Add 14 to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x02AD11><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x02AD11>
"That song..." Kid suddenly says, standing up beside me. I look over to her, seeing her expression has changed to vulnerable curiosity, chasing a long-lost memory...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"You know this song, Kid?"
<Waitpad>"Yeah... a long time ago, someone I knew used to sing it to me..."
<Waitpad> She turns away from me, rubbing her eyes.
<Waitpad><cleartext> .........
<Waitpad>"Kid?" I say softly, putting my hand on her shoulder. After a moment or two, she looks back at me. Tears are running down her cheeks.
<Waitpad><Cleartext> Without saying a word, Kid walks quickly to the door.
<Waitpad>"Hey, wait up, Kid!" I say, chasing after her.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 3C><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00F171>

<Label 0x02AE3A>
 I open up the dresser.
<Waitpad><ClearText> All sorts of differently colored garments have been placed in the drawer. Frills, lace, and just about every color of lingerie...
<Waitpad>"Wonder what kinda dress is this," Kid mutters, holding up a silk garment from the bottom of the drawer. Examining the dress, I can see she's fascinated with it.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I've never worn anything like this before," she says, running her hands across the fine floral lace.
<Waitpad> She slides the dress down her shirt, and pulls it up over her shoulders. After a moment or two of shuffling around, she undoes her shirt and I see her wearing nothing but the silk dress. She looks as graceful as a fairy with it on...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Wow, look at me... I'm a lovely maiden! Not a scrap of roughage on me!"
<Waitpad>"None whatsoever... a perfect fit!"
<Waitpad>"Aw, Serge... quit teasin'!" says Kid, blushing.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"C'mon, let's go," she says after a while, putting her old clothes back on with a smile on her face.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 3C><Call 0x000DB7><Add 14 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x02B04B><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x02B04B>
<Goto 0x00F171>

<Label 0x02B04F>
 The plush bed seems very soft and fluffy. Abandoning my caution, I walk over and examine it.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I push my hands into the mattress. Wow, it's softer than it looks. I could sure use a good night's rest right about now...
<Waitpad> Lifting up the edge of the sheet, I can't believe how light this bedding is. And the smell... wonderful...!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Suddenly, Kid jabs me in the side.
<Waitpad>"Hey! Whatcha doin?"
<waitpad> I fall onto the bed, laughing a little. I motion for her to come and join me.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What're you smilin' about...!?"
<waitpad>"Huh?"
<waitpad>"Serge, I can't believe you!" Kid yells with a red face, storming out of the room.
<Waitpad>"I didn't mean anything by it! It was a misunderstanding!!"
<Waitpad> Hoping I can clear this one up, I chase Kid out of the room, abandoning the search...
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 3C><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00F171>

<Label 0x02B235>
<ClearText> The letter on the desk and a warm teacup hint of a woman living here. However, after searching the room, no one is found. A breeze coming in through a slightly opened window refreshes me a little.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000C74> Wait, that window wasn't open before! Someone was just in here, it seems.
<Waitpad>"Let's come back another time. We don't want to get caught snooping around..."
<waitpad> For the time being, we leave Riddel's room.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 3C><Call 0x000DB7><Goto 0x00F171>

<Label 0x02B2F6>
<ClearText><If 0x14D6 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x02B307><Goto 0x02BD58><Goto 0x02B30B>

<Label 0x02B307>
<Goto 0x02B30B>

<Label 0x02B30B>
<ClearText>"Is someone there?"
<Waitpad> I instantly hide behind the door, trying to figure out where that voice came from. It sounded like a girl, but it wasn't Kid...
<Waitpad><Call 0x000C5A><Delay 1E> It's Lynx's adopted daughter, Riddel! It has to be her!
<Waitpad>"Odd... I could have sworn I heard someone come in," she says. Apparently she hasn't seen us yet...
<Waitpad> What do we do? I keep myself hidden behind the door.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Suddenly, Kid bolts out from behind a chair! She silently comes up behind Riddel, putting a knife to her throat!<Call 0x000C5E>
<Waitpad>"We've come for the Frozen Flame -- where is it!!" Kid yells in a low, strict voice.
<Waitpad>"Kid... there's no need to be like that," I say, trying to calm her down.
<waitpad>"Quiet, Serge!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Riddel giggles at the two of us.
<Waitpad>"What's so funny!!!" Kid says in a tight tone.
<Waitpad>"Oh, come on, you can't be thieves -- you're far too noisy!"
<Waitpad>"I wouldn't be sayin' such things if I was you!"
<Waitpad>"Well then, go ahead and cut me."
<Waitpad><ClearText> At that moment, I picture in my head Riddel collapsing with a blue face, smeared in blood.
<Waitpad>"Kid, look at her. She's not going to hurt us."
<Waitpad>"Dammit... <delay 0a>all right! Still, don't think I'm not keeping an eye on ya!"
<Waitpad>"The feeling is mutual," Riddel says.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Don't worry, we're not your enemies. We're not after your power," I say to Riddel, trying to keep cool.
<Waitpad>"We've just come to talk. If there's anything you could tell us about the Frozen Flame, or perhaps the Acacia Dragoons..."
<Waitpad> Hearing these words, a somber look comes over Riddel's face. After a moment, she begins to speak...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 07>"The Frozen Flame... it was kept in a kingdom to the north for centuries, legend has it...
<Waitpad> With its subtle, mysterious power, it allegedly could guide people and change history, all while somehow remaining elusive to those who sought it, or so I have heard.
<Waitpad> At the time of that kingdom's downfall, it was seized from its resting place. Passed from hand to hand, finally it came into the possession of my father, General Viper.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Lynx approached my father as a friend, years ago. Blindly trusting him, my father was taken advantage of by Lynx, unable to realize his true intentions...
<Waitpad> And so, on that fateful day, struck down by his alleged friend, my father was robbed, and left for dead..."
<Waitpad> Averting her eyes, Riddel buries her face in her hands.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I didn't know... I didn't know Lynx was behind all this at the time he took me into custody. I was just a child...
<waitpad> That cursed rock, I didn't know anything about it, and I don't want to! I don't want to have anything to do with it!!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000C6A> I want nothing more than to see this all come to an end," she says with tears in her eyes.
<waitpad> I'm taken aback, hearing these words.
<waitpad> Suddenly, Magil comes forward to speak. "Do you know of the old man who currently is locked away in the catacombs?"
<Waitpad>"That traitor! Because of him, my father... my dear Zorander...!!"
<Waitpad>"Please, Miss..."
<Waitpad><Call 0x000C70><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 3C><delay 15> Turning her back on us, Riddel pauses. After a moment, she turns around, letting out a deep sigh.
<Waitpad><ClearBG><Call 0x000C10><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 14>"...Yes, I know the man of whom you speak."
<waitpad>"He is an Acacia Dragoon, is he not?" Magil asks.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"He was, before he spent countless days and nights locked up in the torture chamber, losing his mind as well as his identity in the process...
<Waitpad> I remember the day they removed him from that dreadful room, beaten within an inch of his life..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14A9 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02BAA9>"The torture chamber?"
<Waitpad>"Yes... a terrible room upstairs, where Lynx breaks down peoples' hearts and bodies..."
<Waitpad> Riddel shivers, but quickly recomposes herself.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Perhaps we may find a clue to his past there," says Magil. I'd hoped it wouldn't come to this...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02BAFB>

<Label 0x02BAA9>
"The torture chamber you speak of, it is the room upstairs with the trap ceiling, correct?"
<Waitpad> Riddel nods silently.
<Waitpad>"Perhaps we may find a clue to his past there," says Magil.
<wairpad> I'd hoped it wouldn't come to this...
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x02BAFB>
"If you must search that room, be sure you have the Einlanzer with you before you do."
<Waitpad>"Eye-what?" Kid asks.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It is a holy white sword, created long ago by ancient sages along with its demonic brother, the Masamune.
<waitpad> It was the Acacia Dragoons' most prized weapon. It once glided through the air in Zorander's hand, shimmering like a star...
<waitpad><cleartext> Now, however, the Dragoons are all but extinct, and the sword has been stored somewhere in this mansion, as though it was some sort of trivial memento...
<Waitpad> It is much more than a common sword, though. Shielded by its magical enchantment, its bearer will be protected against many forms of evil."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Set 0x14C0 to 01> Thinking of those memories of days long gone, again Riddel hangs her head in sadness. "I wish I could be more of a help to you. I apologize..."
<Waitpad>"Naw, that was plenty!" Kid says, heading out of the room.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"But... I wish I was more powerful, like you people," Riddel says, biting her lip.
<Waitpad> Stopping in the doorway, Kid looks over her shoulder. "Strength didn't get us here. Power comes from believing in yerself!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I... I see. I wish you luck."
<Waitpad> As she heads out of the room, Kid mutters, "Hope it ain't bad luck..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 3C><Call 0x000DB7><Set 0x14D6 to 01><Goto 0x00F171>

<Label 0x02BD58>
<ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 07> Riddel sits over on the sofa, lost in thought. She seems to be staring at something on an armrest nearby. Coming over towards her, I see it's a faded photograph.
<Waitpad> She looks up, kindly beckoning us to come over.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 1E><ClearBG><Call 0x000C10><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 0F>"Is there something the matter?"
<Waitpad><If 0x14EF doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02BE97>"Well, about that sword..."
<waitpad>"Yes, the ancient holy sword Einlanzer. I do not know where it has been stored, but I do know it can be of use when confronting the evils of the torture chamber..."
<Waitpad>"Hmmm... okay, gotcha," Kid says, heading back to the door.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x02BEB5>

<Label 0x02BE97>
"No... I just thought we'd come see if there's anything new here."
<waitpad>"Hey, are ya crazy? The Frozen Flame's out there, waitin' to be found! C'mon, mate!"
<waitpad> Riddel gives me an assuring glance as I reluctantly follow Kid out.
<Waitpad><ClearText>

<Label 0x02BEB5>
"Be careful," Riddel says in a sweet voice.
<Waitpad> At the door, Kid comes to a stop.
<Waitpad> Without turning around, Kid asks Riddel, "Hey darlin, ya think you could lend us a hand and tap into that special power of yers that you were talkin' about before?"
<Waitpad> Riddel remains silent.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Well, why is that old man locked up down there?"
<waitpad> Looking downward, still, Riddel says nothing.
<Waitpad>"Hmph... keep silent if ya want, but remember we're not yer tools of vengeance. We act out of our own will... Don't underestimate us," Kid says.
<Waitpad>"...I... I know," Riddel answers in a whisper.
<Waitpad> As we leave I can't help but feel sorry for Riddel. Looking at her through the doorway, she sits motionless, staring at the floor.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><Delay 05><PlaySong 0F><Goto 0x00F171>

<Label 0x02C040>
<Set 0x14C5 to 01><ClearText><Set 0x151E to 00><Set 0x151D to 00><Set 0x151B to 00><If 0x1523 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02C061><Goto 0x02C065><Goto 0x02C065>

<Label 0x02C061>
<Goto 0x02DA81>

<Label 0x02C065>
<ClearText><Call 0x0039F4><delay 2a> Someone is here, however.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 11><Call 0x000AF4><FadeIn 70, 28><Delay 08> With a book in hand, a single goblin sits in a chair, humming to itself. A sweet aroma fills the room, presumably from the teacup sitting on the table before it.
<Waitpad> There's something different about this goblin. It doesn't seem hostile in the least.
<Waitpad> Looking up from its book, it examines us from behind its bifocals.
<Waitpad>"Ah, welcome. It's rare to have visitors all the way down here."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Too bad we're not guests!" Kid shouts. "If you wanna live, tell us where the key to the catacombs is!"
<waitpad> And, with that, Kid takes her knife and thrusts it into the desk, slicing through the tablecloth.
<playsound 0E><waitpad> The goblin remains docile.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, you must be the elusive Kid. I so wanted to see you with my own eyes. We've all heard so much about you..."
<waitpad> But before it can finish its sentence, Kid grabs the knife and hurls it through the air.
<playsound 14><waitpad><cleartext> The goblin sets its book down, now unreadable due to the seven-inch blade protruding through it. It removes the knife and places it on the table.
<Waitpad>"Your reputation precedes you. You are quite a radical young lady. Nevertheless, it's a shame... I wanted to see how that novel ended up."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Esmeld," it says, offering a simple introduction.
<Waitpad>"Please, I do hate to keep my guests standing at bay. Come, sit, and we shall converse over tea."
<Waitpad><ClearText> My first thought is that it's poisoned. Despite my concerns, Magil sits down.
<delay 0a><choice 0x02C42C> *Take a seat next to Magil. 
<Choice 0x02C493> *Look at Kid.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02C42C>
<ClearText> Trusting Magil, I sit down next to him. Surely he's got something up his sleeve.
<Waitpad> Looking at Kid, she truly doesn't want anything to do with this. She remains standing, keeping a vigilant eye on Esmeld.
<Waitpad><OR 0x151E with 80><Goto 0x02C504>

<Label 0x02C493>
<ClearText> Looking over towards Kid, I see she truly doesn't want anything to do with this. She remains standing, keeping a vigilant eye on the goblin. I stand beside her, folding my arms.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02C504>

<Label 0x02C504>
<ClearText> Black tea is set for three at the table.
<Waitpad>"Ah, there we are."
<Waitpad> After a moment, Magil takes the teacup, and brings it slowly to his mouth. He takes a sip, and then sets the cup back on the table.
<waitpad> Esmeld smiles.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, Himalayan Chimpanzee. I've not had this blend in quite some time," Magil says.
<Waitpad>"I see you are a gentleman of fine taste. I will have you know, not many of my visitors have known of this type of black tea."
<waitpad> Listening to their banter, I stare at my cup.
<Waitpad><If 0x151E doesn't equal 80 goto 0x02C622><ClearText> Could it really be poisoned...? Picking up the teacup, I bring it close to my mouth. It doesn't smell so bad...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02C74D>

<Label 0x02C622>
<Choice 0x02C649> *Take a sip. 
<Choice 0x02C66D> *Don't.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02C649>
<ClearText> I nervously sit down and take the cup into my hands.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02C74D>

<Label 0x02C66D>
<ClearText> Staring at the tea, I stay where I am.
<Waitpad> Its mellow aroma enters my nostrils. A little wouldn't hurt, I suppose... If Magil drank it...
<Waitpad> Suddenly, before I know it, Kid sits down and takes a sip!
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02C6E3> *Sit down with her. 
<Choice 0x02C710> *Just say no!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02C6E3>
<ClearText> Succumbing to my curiosity, I sit down beside her and take the cup in my hands.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02C74D>

<Label 0x02C710>
<ClearText> No! I will not drink it...! I can't trust a goblin like this, no matter what.
<waitpad> I sit down beside Kid, but I leave the tea untouched.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02C7F7>

<Label 0x02C74D>
<ClearText><delay 10>"Delicious!" I exclaim. I've never had anything like this before...
<Waitpad> I loosen up a bit, sitting back in my chair.
<waitpad> Wait a sec, what's going on? My wounds, they're being healed!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 24><24, 4F, 1E><Delay 0A><24, CF, 1E><Delay 0A> Looking over towards Kid, she seems to be enjoying it as well.
<Waitpad><Add 32 to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x02C7F3><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x02C7F3>
<Goto 0x02C7F7>

<Label 0x02C7F7>
<ClearText>"So, let's get down to business. Certainly the key to the catacombs has to be around here somewhere. Whether I remember where it is, however... that's a different story."
<delay 0a><choice 0x02C8D2> *"Tough luck. Give us the key."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02CA75> *"Is there something you'd like in exchange?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02C8D2>
<ClearText>"Tough luck. Give us the key," I say, trying not to show my nervousness.
<Waitpad>"Well, you can threaten to kill me, but that would bring you no closer to the key. You could search Viper Manor for a whole month, day and night, and never find it."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02CA75> *"I understand. Is there something you'd like in return?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02C9BA> *Take out my secret collection of Kid's photos.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02C9BA>
<ClearText> Walking over to Esmeld's side, I slip him one of my secret stash. "Would this change your mind?" I whisper.
<waitpad> However, his face shows nothing but utmost reservation. "What I seek is nothing material."
<waitpad><cleartext>"Hey mate, what'd ya show him?" Kid asks.
<waitpad> Hoping to avoid Kid's question, I quickly ask Esmeld, "Well, what would you like then?"
<Waitpad><Set 0x151D to 01><Goto 0x02CA75>

<Label 0x02CA75>
<ClearText>"Hmm... something I want... your life, perhaps," he says, as his eyes light up from behind his glasses.
<Delay 0a><Goto 0x02CABE after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x02CABE> *Grab my knife!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02CABE>
<ClearText>"Oh, you misunderstand, young man. I do not wish to harm you," Esmeld says, noticing the sudden look of shock on my face.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I enjoy chatting with the many types of visitors that we have in the mansion. Surely, as an adventurer, you must have plenty of interesting stories to tell."
<waitpad> Adding to this, he looks in my direction with a smile.
<Waitpad>"I look highly on unique stories, and have been known to reward such storytellers..."
<Waitpad> Staring down at the dark liquid before me, I start to rack my brain for a really good story...
<Waitpad><delay 10> Okay, I've got it!
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x02CBFC>

<Label 0x02CBFC>
<Set 0x151B to 00> On one particular evening, a small girl walked through a dark, dreary forest.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02CC7A> *The girl had searched anywhere and everywhere for the Golden Sunflower, the only cure for her mother's illness. 
<Choice 0x02CCD5> *The girl suddenly came across a large beetle.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02CC7A>
<cleartext> And so,<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x02CCC5> *after walking endlessly, the sunflower was nowhere to be found. 
<Choice 0x02CCCD> *after three days, the girl hadn't eaten a single thing.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02CCC5>
<Set 0x151E to 00><Goto 0x02CD2A>

<Label 0x02CCCD>
<Set 0x151E to 01><Goto 0x02CD2A>

<Label 0x02CCD5>
<ClearText> Taking it back to her home,<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x02CD19> *the girl painted the beetle from head to toe with a shiny golden paint. 
<Choice 0x02CD21> *the girl shrieked, complaining about how her house was so rotten and infested.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02CD19>
<Set 0x151E to 00><Goto 0x02CECF>

<Label 0x02CD21>
<Set 0x151E to 01><Goto 0x02CECF><ClearText>

<Label 0x02CD2A>
<ClearText>"Hmmmm.... a fine beginning, perhaps. Is that all?"
<waitpad>"No! Umm..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"On one evening, a girl walked through a forest, searching for the only cure for her mother, the Golden Sunflower.
<Waitpad><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02CDD1> After walking endlessly, she still hadn't come across the sunflower.
<Goto 0x02CDE9>

<Label 0x02CDD1>
 After walking endlessly, the girl hadn't eaten in three whole days!


<Label 0x02CDE9>
<Waitpad> And suddenly before her, she came across a gold light, shining in a clearing...
<Waitpad> It was the Golden Sunflower!
<Waitpad><ClearText> The girl put a few of the sunflower seeds into her bag.
<Waitpad> She was sure it would cure her mother, she thought.
<Waitpad><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02CE95> Hurrying back to her home, she crushed a few of the seeds into a drink and fed it to her mother. Getting better, the two lived happily ever after."
<Goto 0x02CECA>

<Label 0x02CE95>
 However, it was all a dream. With a happy face, the girl awoke, ready to start another day!"


<Label 0x02CECA>
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02D02C>

<Label 0x02CECF>
<ClearText>"Hmmmm.... a fine beginning, perhaps. Is that all?"
<waitpad>"No! Umm..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"One evening, while a girl was walking through the forest, she came across a beetle.
<Waitpad><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02CF5B> She took it home, painting it with a shiny gold paint.
<Goto 0x02CF6E>

<Label 0x02CF5B>
 She then took it back to her shabby home.


<Label 0x02CF6E>
<Waitpad><ClearText> The next morning, the girl went to town to sell the beetle.
<Waitpad><If 0x151E doesn't equal 00 goto 0x02CFE6> Claiming it was a good luck beetle, she showed it to many travelers, and eventually sold it for an outrageous sum of money!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02D585>

<Label 0x02CFE2>
<Goto 0x02D02C>

<Label 0x02CFE6>
 Selling it to a restaurant, she took the money she earned and bought a bouquet of flowers.
<Waitpad> And so, she went and laid the flowers down at a lake near her mother's grave."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02D02C>

<Label 0x02D02C>
 Oh brother...
<Waitpad><cleartext>"...A fairly interesting story. Very well, here is the key."
<waitpad> Esmeld leans over towards the wall and knocks on a certain spot. There, a secret trap door opens up. He reaches in, and takes out a key!
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, as I start to reach for the key, Esmeld recoils his hand.
<Waitpad> Sighing, the goblin speaks. "Yes, I suppose you could say there is something more that I wish for."
<waitpad> I glance at Magil, then back to Esmeld.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Long ago, when I was a young, foolish lad, I was involved with General Viper's daughter, Miss Riddel."
<Waitpad>"Riddel? The General's daughter!?"
<Waitpad>"Oh, you didn't know? Indeed, Miss Riddel's true father was General Viper."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Anyhow, for the sake of harnessing the power of the Frozen Flame, Lord Lynx abducted Miss Riddel, taking her as his own daughter. Within that strange rock lies a strong mental connection to this particular Mistress...
<Waitpad> And so, I have resided here all these years, silently waiting for the right time to exact revenge on Lord Lynx for taking my dear Miss Riddel from me.
<Waitpad><ClearText> If you have come in order to find Lord Lynx, promise me you will not mention any of this. You have come here to slay him, have you not?" Esmeld asks calmly, holding the key in his hand.
<delay 0a><choice 0x02D31C> *"Uhh... for the time being, I suppose..."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02D3A6> *"......"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02D31C>
<ClearText> Unfazed by the question, I answer truthfully.
<waitpad> Well this is sure a strange turn of events, hearing these things from a goblin who's supposed to be defending Viper Manor.
<Waitpad><ClearText> All of a sudden, Kid interrupts. "Hell with the time bein'! Yeah, that's our plan awright!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02D432>

<Label 0x02D3A6>
<ClearText> I freeze up, not knowing what to say.
<waitpad> Well, this is sure a strange turn of events. Hearing these things from a goblin who's supposed to be defending Viper Manor, it makes me wonder if I'm dreaming...
<Waitpad><ClearText> All of a sudden, Kid interrupts. "You bet yer green arse, that's our plan awright!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x02D432>

<Label 0x02D432>
"I... I see. Well, I certainly don't wish to detain you any longer. I would help you more, but I prefer not to openly side myself with either party," he says, handing us the key.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Well, there still is somethin' you got that I want!"
<waitpad> Esmeld looks up, curious.
<waitpad>"How 'bout some more of that great tea of yers!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Esmeld thinks for a second, then reaches behind him.
<waitpad>"Very well, one bag," he says, reluctantly parting with the teabag.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Okay! Leave it to us!"
<waitpad> Putting the tea bag down her bosom, Kid says to Esmeld, "Ya don't have to worry about a thing, I never lie about my promises!"
<Waitpad> Esmeld nods, smiling.
<Waitpad>"Let's head out, the Frozen Flame's bound to be around here somewhere!" Kid says, heading to the door in high spirits. Magil pays his respects and we're off.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x02DB29>

<Label 0x02D585>
<ClearText>"Yeah, Serge... and I'll bet the girl's name was Kid, wasn't it."
<Waitpad> From beside me, chills run down my spine as I hear Kid question me in her coldest tone.
<Waitpad>"I made it up, Kid..." I whisper to her. Maybe she really did do something like that in the past. Glancing at her, I see her eyes start to cloud over.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Then, suddenly, she starts choking me, wrapping both her hands around my neck!
<Waitpad>"How do you know about all this!?" Kid yells, strangling me!
<Waitpad><If 0x151D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x02D672><Goto 0x02D7DC>

<Label 0x02D672>
<ClearText> From behind me, I see Esmeld pull out one of his tea bags. Noticing it, she suddenly forgets all about me, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the tea.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Perhaps some of my precious black tea leaves can be used to prevent against ruckus in here."
<waitpad> Kid immediately snatches the tea bag.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"...It was a fairly entertaining story. I am a goblin of my word, and as such, I shall give you the key," he says, knocking on a certain spot at a nearby wall. A secret compartment opens, from where he takes the key!
<Waitpad> He hands it to us with a smile on his face. Thanking him, we leave the room.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x02DB29>

<Label 0x02D7DC>
<ClearText>"And what are these!? Is this what you were showin' him before?" Kid asks angrily, grabbing the photos out of my pocket!
<Waitpad> Oh, no...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Serge..."
<waitpad> Kid looks up at me. I see nothing but a fierce animal ready to pounce.
<Waitpad>"Magil! Help!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DA0> Pow!
<Delay 0A>"Aaahhhh!!"
<Delay 0A><Call 0x000D83><PlaySound 0B> Barf!!
<PlaySound 11><Delay 0A>"Noooo!!"
<Delay 0A><Call 0x000DA0> Oooof!
<Delay 0A>"Okay, stop! Stop!!"
<Delay 0A><Call 0x000DA0><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 0D> Thwap!
<Delay 0A>"......"
<Waitpad><Subtract 28 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x02D983><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x02D983>
<Subtract 1E from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x02D993><Set 0x1515 to 05>

<Label 0x02D993>
<ClearText> ...Somehow, I'm still alive...
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0B> Damn, that hurt. And my photos... ruined!
<waitpad> Trampling over me, Kid turns to the door. Magil picks me up off the floor and dusts me off.
<Waitpad>"Oh, do not forget this," Esmeld says, restraining us.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"In accordance with our deal, here is the key," he says cautiously, giving Magil the key he had in his hand.
<Waitpad> I follow the two out of the room as I rub the back of my neck, still sore.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x02DB29>

<Label 0x02DA81>
<ClearText><Call 0x0039F4><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 11><Call 0x000AF4><FadeIn 70, 28><Delay 0A>"Ah, welcome back," Esmeld says.
<Waitpad>"Have you any more interesting stories?"
<waitpad>"Well, hmm..."
<Waitpad>"Ah, Young Master, allow me to humbly depart some age-old wisdom. How is it that one can have any experiences to talk about whatsoever, if he simply sits around all day, telling stories?" Esmeld asks playfully.
<Waitpad> We leave the room, puzzled.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x02DB29>

<Label 0x02DB29>
<FadeOut 70, 28><Delay 0D><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><Set 0x14BA to 01><OR 0x1523 with 80><Goto 0x00FDD2>

<Label 0x02DB3F>
<Set 0x149F to 01><Set 0x149B to 01><ClearText><Volume 40, 00> Noticing me, Magil comes to my side.
<Waitpad>"Sorry... I guess I got distracted."
<waitpad> Noticing his sharp gaze, I get the feeling he's going to berate me for my stupidity, getting caught up with a silly painting like this while we're in enemy territory.
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, I'm mistaken.
<Waitpad> Even after I start to walk away, Magil doesn't seem to budge, still staring up at the painting.
<waitpad> I look back at him, and suddenly realize what's going on. Usually, I'm at a loss to what he's thinking. Up until now, that was the way it was.
<waitpad> But at this very moment, I completely understand him.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 02, FF> Magil is<textspeed 04>... <delay 10><call 0x007474><PlaySound 10>burning.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 0E><Delay 0F><24, 18, 2D><24, 78, 0A><24, 08, 01><Delay 12><playsound 00><ClearText> A slight glow has started to radiate all around him. It seems like his fury has somehow tapped into the force of Maxwell's Demon, allowing him to violate the second law of thermodynamics.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Actually, no, it's as though the helium and hydrogen free atoms drifting around the area are somehow causing a thermonuclear fusion reaction. The neutrinos of a reaction like this could be visible even in a cup of water.
<waitpad> Fascinating...
<PlaySound 10><Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 02, FF><24, 18, 2D><24, 78, 0A><24, 08, 01><Delay 12><playsound 00><ClearText> The look on his face is the same cold expression he always wears. However, his internal temperature has clearly risen by more than a few degrees.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Serge... if anything should ever happen to me, please take care of Kid..."
<Waitpad> But before I can even get the chance to ask him what he means...
<Waitpad><ClearText> His face turns red, his blood hot as lava, as though he's being stripped down to some sort of primal awareness, ready to attack whatever comes his way.
<Waitpad>"Finally... after all these years, I have you," he repeats over and over again, continuing to stare at the strange painting.
<waitpad><cleartext> His sharp, radiant gaze seems to pierce through the painting and beyond the mansion wall, as if he's seeing straight into the ethereal demiurge, Father Time himself...
<Waitpad> Behind that mysterious porcelain mask of his lies a consciousness on the brink of critical mass, somehow innately prepared for this very day... for this very moment.
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 4A, 1E><24, CA, 1E><24, 4A, 1E><24, CA, 1E>"Hey," Kid says as the flames start to take on a blue hue, like that of a Cherenkov Reaction. "if ya keep on burnin' like that, yer gonna get us spotted."
<waitpad> Suddenly noticing Magil's intensity, a giant sweat drop appears on her cheek, as a vein at her temple starts to throb prominently.
<Waitpad> Women... will they ever truly understand the true nature of males?
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid, Magil is on the verge of something big here. If you're any kind of wife, you'll at least console him with one of your bittersweet smiles."
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x1515 is less than 5A goto 0x02E206>"Magil's wife? What the...!?"
<Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><PlaySound 12><Delay 03><Call 0x000D7D><Waitpad><ClearText>"It was only a joke, Kid! A joke..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> But it's too late... I cry out uncontrollably, glancing down where Kid's knife had struck me with sublight speed. 
<Waitpad> The blade's redshifted afterimage brings forth high temperatures from the nitrogen plasma shockwave, leaving me gasping, breath after breath...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Was I really joking? I can't even tell anymore...
<waitpad> Kid...
<waitpad> In my heart, I hold feelings of both love and malicious intent. Only because of this am I able to rise to my feet, grasping my wound.
<Subtract 1E from 0x1514><Goto 0x02E29E>

<Label 0x02E206>
 Whap!
<Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 11><Delay 02><Call 0x000D7D><Waitpad>"Ughhh..."
<waitpad><cleartext><delay 20>"Hey, snap out of it, mate."
<waitpad> Kid had gone to the trouble of removing one of her high laced boots and hitting me over the head with it. I awake from my daze, rubbing my head.
<Waitpad>"Huh? What the heck... I was only joking around, Kid."
<waitpad>"Hrmf."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Subtract 03 from 0x1514>

<Label 0x02E29E>
<If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x02E2AE><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x03203E>

<Label 0x02E2AE>
<cleartext>"...What's goin' on with Magil?" Kid asks.
<waitpad>"...I don't really know, but, something's been awakened inside him. Something fierce. I think he sees something in that painting... maybe Lynx himself..." I say, pointing to the bizarre painting as the 50cc of blood per second routinely flows through my temples.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"That thing? It's just a stupid picture of a desert!" she yells, beyond bewildered.
<waitpad> At any rate, Magil remains transfixed on the glossy oil canvas, glowing with that pale blue radiance all around him.
<waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, something even stranger happens -- his right fist explodes into a ball of blue fire!
<PlaySound 1C><24, 4A, 3C><24, CA, 3C><waitpad> After the flames abate, a strange symbol has emerged on the back of his hand -- two diagonally crossed broadswords, with an S shape in the middle, interlocking the blades.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid! Serge! We will no longer have to worry about keys," he says, as the pale blue glow continues to radiate from his body.
<Waitpad> Ah, Magil... always good for some quality gobbledygook. (^^;)
<Waitpad><ClearText> Magil turns and walks back towards the entranceway. There, he holds out his hand, and after a few moments, the door starts to burn!
<waitpad> I rush over, eager to see what's going on. What I see next amazes me -- nothing but a hole remains in the space where the door handle once was!
<waitpad><Volume 40, 00> Easily pushing the rest of the door open, we follow Magil out of the room.
<Waitpad><PlaySong 0F><Set 0x14B1 to 01><FadeOut 70, 0A><Volume 02, FF><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00BFB1>

<Label 0x02E516>
 Magil steps towards the door with his burning hand extended.
<waitpad> The instant his glowing blue palm touches the door, the lock simply disappears.
<Waitpad>"Whoa, Magil! Why didn't ya ever use that hand of yers before?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid purses her lips, slipping silently into the treasure vault.
<Waitpad> The hole left by Magil's new magic is perfectly round, with smooth edges, almost as though it had been cut with an incredibly sharp blade. Also, there doesn't seem to be a single scrap of wood left on the floor.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 4A>"Even I don't know where the scraps go," he says from beside me as I enter through the doorway.
<Waitpad><ClearText><ClearBG><Call 0x000A58><FadeIn 68, 5A><delay 20> Taking our first few steps inside, Kid whistles out loud in admiration. "Cripes... look at all this loot!"
<waitpad> I'm taken aback as well, despite the fact that this room smells like insecticide that's been kept alone in a drawer for years and years...
<waitpad><cleartext> Faintly visible in the dim light, a mountain of gold and silver treasure, countless works of fine art, and other shimmering artifacts fill the spacious room.
<Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Waitpad><ClearText> Magil walks around, amazed at all the items scattered about the room. Oddly enough, he starts to go crazy over some of the more eclectic, less valuable looking items.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Ah... a statue of the hero Kafoul from the planet Tarust... a stuffed Darmafos from Saturn... a Trifid worm plant from Greylens... Krendathu Royal Jelly on a Lifemaker-inscribed plate... the Apostle's Crystal... and what's that over there? Could it really be a genuine Swiss Army Knife, embedded with Zora's Blue Stone?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> ...I had no idea he knew about all this kind of stuff... I had no idea there was -anybody- out there who knew about junk like this so much.
<waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut F0, 49><delay 20><FadeIn 68, 3C><fadein 90, 00><Delay 0D><ClearText>"Hey, lookie what we have here," Kid says, walking over to an old movie camera. Feeling a bit camera-friendly, she stretches out across the treasure, posing with a somewhat awkward smile for the camera.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"The teleprompter's not in order," mutters Magil, abandoning the clunky machine he'd been checking out.
<waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, there's a noise over in the far corner.
<playsound 38><waitpad> I look over, seeing one of the items suddenly being knocked over. None of us are anywhere near it, though.
<waitpad> I unsheathe my knife as Kid and I exchange glances. She goes goes to check it out, taking careful, quiet steps.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Ah, hell, it's just the Assistant Director," she says. "Ya bumblin' crew... Always gettin' in the way!"
<waitpad> The Assistant Director tries to explain, but is cut off by Kid.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Yer gonna make me screw up my lines!" Kid continues. "And besides, can't ya see we're right in the middle of a great find here!? And get me an Evian for cryin' out loud!"
<waitpad><cleartext> But then, something catches my eye. Over in the back of the room, behind the Claire Bible and Ideonite that the Assistant Director had knocked over, a shimmering red light streaks out, barely visible behind all the items.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 1E><Call 0x000B1D><ClearText><PlaySong 07><FadeIn 6a, 3C><Volume 00, FF>
<ClearText>"...The Frozen Flame..."
<Waitpad> On an intricate pedestal sits a magnificent scarlet crystal. It's so perfectly radiant, it seems as though it's unreal, like a product of polygon technology. It slowly rotates on the pedestal, beckoning us...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Halt! It may be dangerous."
<Waitpad> Magil extends his faintly glowing hand out towards Kid, yanking her hand back just as she's about to grab the fabled item.
<Waitpad>"Easy, Magil... remember what that hand of yours can do..."
<waitpad><ClearText> But then, the scarlet jewel suddenly vanishes into thin air!
<PlaySound 1C><Call 0x0388CC><Volume 02, 00><fadeout 70, 3c><waitpad><Call 0x000A58><04, FF, 00><25, 00><fadein 68, 3c> We stare at each other, confused.
<Waitpad> Magil approaches the pedestal a few moments later, using his hand to burn a hole into the top of the platform.
<Waitpad><cleartext> We peer down inside it. There, amongst an array of mechanical equipment, we see a circuit controlling the revolving pedestal, and another controlling a red light of some sort, flickering on and off.
<waitpad>"Ah, a hologram... A fake, just as I expected," Magil says, looking around by the back of the pedestal.
<waitpad>"Here's the cord..." he says, following along its path. "It should lead us to..."
<waitpad><cleartext>"Ah hah," he says, stopping at the wall where the cord goes into. There, we find nothing but the stage hand, fumbling around with the power outlets. The short, oriental man looks up at us with a worried look on his face...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"...Ya worthless piece'a garbage!" Kid yells, shaking the stage hand by the neck! "What'd ya do with the real Frozen Flame!?"
<Waitpad>"Come on, Kid," I say. "He wouldn't know anything about anything that important. He was probably just trying to fix the lighting in here and tripped over the Frozen Flame's cord."
<waitpad><cleartext> Kid reluctantly releases her grip from the stage hand's neck, who gives a nervous, apologetic smile to us all before quickly scampering away.
<waitpad>"And get me an Evian already!!" she yells as he scurries out of sight.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The real Flame's gotta be around here somewhere..."
<Waitpad>"I have a feeling the real Flame would not be stored in such an easily obtainable place, Kid. We should search elsewhere."
<waitpad>"Aye..."
<waitpad> We say goodbye to the treasure vault for now, resuming our search.
<Waitpad><PlaySong 00><FadeOut 70, 0A><Volume 05, FF><ClearBG><ClearText><Set 0x14B6 to 01><Goto 0x006175>

<Label 0x02EDC5>
<FadeIn 70, 0A><Call 0x0039F4><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000A58><FadeIn 6a, 0A><ClearText> We return to the treasure vault, where a little while ago we had some trouble with the camera crew.
<waitpad>"The lighting seems to be fixed somewhat, but still, I think my skin tone is far too pale in this hue of light."
<Waitpad>"Let's go, we'll come back later when they're better prepared."
<waitpad>"I never even got my Evian..."
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 3A><delay 10><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x006175>

<Label 0x02EE53> -- in the storeroom, once you've looked around a little bit. 14B6 is set once you've been to the treasure room.
<If 0x14B6 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x02EE63><Goto 0x02EF73><Goto 0x02EEB4>

<Label 0x02EE63> -- if you're in the storeroom but you haven't been to the treasure vault yet.
"C'mon, mate. There's nothin' but old junk here. How 'bout we go find some real treasure!"
<delay 0a><choice 0x02EEB4> *"Don't you think we ought to check this room some more, Kid?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02EF52> *Return to the corridor.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02EEB4>
<ClearText>"Come on! I want those riches! Now!!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x02EF52> *Leave the room, avoiding a potentially painful situation. 
<choice 0x02EEFD> *Ignore her.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x02EEFD>
<ClearText>"Bollocks!" Kid says, fuming.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x02EF73>

<Label 0x02EF52>
 I follow Kid out of the storeroom, where the dark corridor awaits us.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x02EF73> -- in the storeroom if you have been to the treasure room already (or have insisted on ignoring kid when she wants to take you away from the storeroom if you haven't been to the vault yet). 14EC is set once you've beaten the emperor of mars.
<If 0x14EC doesn't equal 01 goto 0x02EF7F><Goto 0x02FDCF>

<Label 0x02EF7F> -- in the storeroom, before beating the emperor of mars.
<ClearText> I start to look around a bit, peering in under some of the covered items.
<waitpad> But then, all of a sudden...
<waitpad><FadeOut 68, 78><PlaySound 18><Volume 20, FF>"What's that...? What's going on? I didn't do anything!"
<waitpad> Tension rises as a low rumbling sound starts to echo out through the room. The light in the room has also dimmed rather suddenly...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid looks around the room with newfound interest.
<Waitpad>"I feel it too... Where's it comin' from?"
<Waitpad> I follow my ears over to the far wall. It seems to be coming from that direction. Kid approaches the dark, dusty rear half of the room with slow, cautious steps, attracted by the suspiciousness...
<waitpad> The wall is covered with a large cloth. Whatever's making the noise seems to be coming from here.
<waitpad><cleartext> Kid and I look at each other. I hesitantly grip my knife as she gives the cloth a tug.
<waitpad>"Whoa..."
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000AD6><FadeIn 64, 3A><delay 10> A vast collection of twinkling lights are lined up in an orderly fashion across the entire wall.
<waitpad> I've never seen anything like this before... There's hardly any light in the room, nor does the moon's light shine in on us here, but somehow, these lights twinkle and sparkle on their own, as if they contain a spark of fire within each of them.
<waitpad><cleartext> The hum we heard earlier, like that of a firefly buzzing around, seems to be coming from everywhere on this wall.
<waitpad> Speaking of fireflies, that's very much how it all looks, as well -- endless amounts of bright greens, reds, and blues twinkle and sparkle on the assortment of panels before us.
<waitpad> Metal components of some kind seem to be integrated into the ceiling and the floor. What could all this be used for?
<Waitpad><cleartext> Lynx... what has he been up to all this time?
<waitpad> Strange paintings, and now strange flickering walls, hidden completely out of sight...
<waitpad><cleartext> The atmosphere in here, I suddenly realize, feels strangely similar to when we were standing in front of the painting. Maybe it's Magil; his radiance has returned to a bright blue glow.
<Waitpad> Looking over at him, he looks as though he never left that room. He stands there, examining the wall with his lips pursed and a bead of sweat rolling down his cheek.
<Waitpad><ClearText><fadeout 70, 50><delay 30><fadein 70, 40><delay 28>"Hey mate, come check this out!"
<Waitpad> I turn my head over towards the far corner where Kid was investigating. It seems she's uncovered something more...
<Waitpad><ClearText> It looks like some sort of huge box. It would probably be taller than Magil, if it wasn't tipped on its side.
<Waitpad> It has a set of doors which open freely on its front face, which contain strange, colorful mechanics inside.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Isn't this about the usual size of box that a fridge comes in?" Kid asks.
<If 0x1515 is less than 50 goto 0x02F45A><Waitpad>"Yeah, it's a pretty nice size all right..."
<waitpad>"Don't tell me yer already shoppin' around for stuff like this," Kid says playfully, winking at me. "Don't get any ideas, mate. You ain't tyin' me down to no kitchen anytime soon!"
<waitpad> ...Wait, what? Uh... I didn't mean anything by it...


<Label 0x02F45A>
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid, let's think for a minute," Magil says. "How could this be a refrigerator box, if refrigerators haven't even been invented yet?"
<waitpad> Good call, Magil...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Oh yeah, I forgot. Well uh... It looks an awful lot like a... uh... non-electric refrigerator... box... thing... er..."
<waitpad> Magil and I glance at each other. Magil blinks.
<waitpad>"Aw, hell, what does it matter what I call it!? It's got nothin' to do with the Frozen Flame!" she yells, kicking the box.
<call 0x000d89><Waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, the box starts to rumble! Lights begin to shine and shimmer all over it, letting out strange noises!
<PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 05><Volume 03, 00><Waitpad><PlaySound 23><Volume 10, FF> It lets out a wild shrill as two flaps open up on both sides of the box. There, large legs sprout out! This thing, whatever it is, towers above us as it rises to its feet!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Then, two more flaps open out, where two strong and sturdy arms begin to grow outwards, just as the legs did!
<waitpad> Finally, a round dome rises up out of the top, complete with two wide eyes, a gaping mouth, and a rotating arc-shaped antenna!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Frightened for my life, I ready my weapon against the huge monstrosity before me!
<waitpad><PlaySong 05><Delay 0C><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><ClearText>"Aha, ahahahaha, hahaha!"
<Waitpad> Kid, on the other hand, can't seem to stop laughing. Yeah, it does look kind of clunky... maybe even a bit funny-looking, but still...
<Waitpad><ClearText> Uh oh... I think we rubbed it the wrong way! It looks down on us with a frustrated smirk on its face. In the center of its torso, the two original flaps slowly open, revealing a complex network of psychedelic colored gears, chains, and... a pair of huge gatling guns!
<waitpad> We dive for cover behind some covered items just as it opens fire!
<Delay 0F><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Delay 03><ClearText>


         Reload!
<Delay 0D><ClearText><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Delay 08><ClearText>"Aha, ahaha, hahahahaa!"
<Delay 0D><ClearText><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B> Kid can't seem to help continuing to laugh and taunt the thing as we scurry from place to place!
<Waitpad> However, suddenly, a clear voice echoes out over the chaos! "Kid! Serge! Hide, quickly! I will deactivate it!"
<waitpad> Upon hearing Magil behind it, the thing starts to whip around.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 00>


       <textspeed 04>"Great Deva of Mars, I come for you!!"<call 0x007474>
<delay 20><fadeout 90, 30><ClearText><fadein 90, 00><delay 10> In a flash, Magil has leapt into the air, dashing with full force towards the fridge, er, non-fridge thing...!
<waitpad> He shoots downward, landing a direct kick on the back of its head!
<Delay 08><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388AF><PlaySound 1D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Delay 01><PlaySound 12><Delay 0C>
<waitpad><cleartext> It teeters for a moment as Magil lands safely away from it. Then, miraculously, it falls lifelessly to the floor before us, as pieces of its beaten body fly out in all directions!
<playsound 1c><delay 0a> Its battery box (two AA, sold separately) tumbles away, stopping inches from my feet.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Magil stands there, a glowing champion, burning with a blue radiance like never before.
<waitpad>"Are you two all right?" he asks us.
<Waitpad>"Hehehe, my belly hurts, but yeah... Heh, heh..." Kid answers, still unable to stop laughing.
<waitpad> I silently nod to Magil.
<Waitpad><volume 60, 00><cleartext><delay 20> Looking over the junked remains, Kid seems to have found something of interest. She reaches out and takes some sort of white object, quickly stashing it down her bosom.
<waitpad>"Hey Kid, what's that?"
<waitpad>"Nothin'. Mind yer own business, Serge."
<waitpad><cleartext>"Let us search elsewhere. There are many clues left to be discovered..." Magil says with a cocked eyebrow, before heading to the door.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 3A><volume a0, 00><delay 20><ClearBG><ClearText> Thinking back on all this, Magil's been getting stranger and stranger lately.
<waitpad> What did he call that thing... A `Great Deva of Mars'?
<waitpad> And how could he have known where its weak spot was? What kind of background does a guy need to have in order to know about stuff like that? I always knew he was strange, but I'm finding out now just how strange he really is...
<Waitpad><ClearText> In any case, I'm glad I have him on our side. That thing would have made mincemeat out of us if he hadn't been here...
<waitpad> I follow the gallant, luminescent figure of Magil out of the room.
<Waitpad><Delay 17><PlaySong 0F><volume 30, ff><ClearText><Set 0x14EC to 01><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x02FDCF> -- in the storeroom, if you've already been to the treasure room and have also beaten the emperor of mars.
<ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 0A><Call 0x000AC3><FadeIn 6C, 3C><Volume 2A, FF> We return to the storeroom. It's just as we left it, complete with the mountainous pile of remains that almost killed us a short while ago.
<Waitpad> We might have missed something here... There was an awful lot thrown off when that deva thing came crashing down to the floor.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Oi, Serge! Take a look at this!"
<waitpad><PlaySong 05><Delay 0F><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B>"Hahahaha, I'm a Martian," Kid shouts, firing the gatling guns all around the room!
<Delay 08><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388AF><PlaySound 1D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Delay 01><PlaySound 12><Delay 0C><PlaySound 22><Waitpad><ClearText>"Quit it, Kid! I don't want to get hurt!"
<waitpad><volume 90, 00>"Aww, c'mon, I'm not hurtin' anybody..."
<waitpad> I run out of the room, afraid to get pelted with bullets. Kid follows a moment later.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 3A><delay 20><PlaySong 0F><Volume 05, FF><ClearBG><Goto 0x005750>

<Label 0x02FF7A> -- the curtain of light
<Volume 02, 00><PlaySong 00><Volume 02, FF><27, 00><FadeOut F0, 0A><ClearText><Delay 03><Call 0x000B2B><ClearText><FadeIn F0, 3C><PlaySound 23><Delay 44><FadeOut F0, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><27, 01><Call 0x000AD9><ClearText><Delay 0A><FadeIn F0, 14><Delay 03><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18> Just as we reach the bottom of the stairs, a wall of light suddenly flashes out in front of us!
<waitpad> I almost run into it, but I barely manage to stop myself before colliding with the blistering hot thing!
<waitpad><cleartext> I look a bit closer at it once I've caught my bearings. In addition to the bright light in front of us, strange markings are scattered around on the floor within it.
<waitpad> Around the markings, a small ditch runs in a perfect circle, where the columns of light radiate up from. A weird sort of shrill seems to be coming from it, as well.
<waitpad><cleartext>"What is it? Can you break through it with your magic?" I ask Magil.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14EC doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0300D0><Goto 0x0301AC><Goto 0x0300D4>

<Label 0x0300D0>
<Goto 0x0300D4>

<Label 0x0300D4> -- if you're at the curtain of light but you don't have the bunny yet
 After pausing for a minute, Magil boldly responds "I apologize, but I have nothing to counteract a force field of this type."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"...The Frozen Flame... It's here, I know it," Kid says, clenching her fists.
<waitpad>"In any case, there's little we can do. We should return once we know more.," Magil says.
<Waitpad><24, D8, 18><FadeOut 70, 0A><PlaySound 00><PlaySong 0F><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00EFAF>

<Label 0x0301AC> -- if you're at the curtain of light and you do have the bunny
 Without saying a word, Magil shifts his glance over to Kid.
<Waitpad><Volume 10, 00><PlaySound 00><Volume 02, FF>"What're ya lookin' at me for?" Kid asks defensively.
<waitpad> Magil points to her chest.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x0388AF><PlaySound 21><Delay 02><24, 58, 18><Delay 26>"Oh, my bunny?"
<Waitpad> Kid reluctantly reaches into her bosom. She takes out a plush bunny hand-puppet, saying "It's my toy, I found it fair 'n square."
<waitpad> So that's what she found in the wreckage... A toy bunny. But what good would that be here?
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Kid, this is actually a `Martian Forest League Concealed Lesser Armament Bunny', and it is far more than a toy."
<waitpad><Volume 00, 00><PlaySound 23><Volume 20, FF> Kid gawks at Magil, as do I. I suppose I'm expecting him to yell "Gotcha!" any time now, but he just stands there, aloof as ever.
<waitpad> He puts the white, fluffy, blue-eyed bunny puppet onto his hand with utmost care.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"So uh... This Martian Forest League, uh... Lesser Armament Bunny..."
<delay 0a>"Martian -Concealed- Forest League Lesser Armament Bunny," Magil corrects, as solemn as a philosophy teacher.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Right... this Martian Concealed Forest League, uh... Lesser Armament Bunny... what is it?"
<waitpad>"Please, Kid, such technology is hopelessly beyond human comprehension."
<waitpad><cleartext>"Well what does it do then?"
<Waitpad>"Watch."
<waitpad>"Wait, uh... no, that's okay, Magil..."
<waitpad><cleartext> Magil turns around, facing the columns of light.
<Waitpad> Entirely unfazed by my presence, Magil starts to dance around, waving the bunny around through the air as he recites some sort of weird incantation.
<Waitpad>"Heat cup... provolone... soccer mom...!!"
<waitpad><cleartext> It's like he's wasted or something...
<Waitpad><cleartext><Delay 17><Volume 20, 00><Delay 0F><PlaySound 00><24, D4, 18><ClearText> And then, after a few moments, the glimmering light begins to subside!
<Waitpad> .................
<waitpad> ...........
<waitpad> ...
<waitpad> Well, whatever. I stopped trying to figure out this whole mess a long time ago.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Serge..."
<Waitpad><PlaySong 02><Volume 30, FF> Magil turns to me, staring into my eyes with relentless honesty. He holds the bunny <delay 03>(The Martian Forest League Lesser Armament Bunny, mind you)<delay 03> out in front of him, saying "I entrust this to you. Please, if anything should ever happen to me, use it as I have..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Magil... I humbly accept this most sacred gift. I shall use it sparingly and appropriately," I say with a deep bow.
<waitpad> Hey, when in Rome...
<waitpad><ClearText><Volume 30, 00><Delay 1E><PlaySound 0C><Volume 15, FF>"This enchanted seal can never be completely removed," Magil continues. "It will require one to re-extinguish it from time to time.
<waitpad> By doing what I have done, this instrument can be used to temporarily nullify the effects of the seal. Please, remember how to use it, for someday you too may find yourself in need of its assistance."
<waitpad><cleartext>"So it's safe to cross now?"
<Waitpad>"Yes. We must hurry, though."
<Waitpad> Walking across it, I feel a little bit of a shock run through my feet as I take my first few steps, but nothing serious happens.
<waitpad><cleartext><fadeout 70, 50><delay 40> Once we're across, we come to a solid oak door after a bit of walking.
<waitpad> Kid opens it, slowly...
<Waitpad><24, D8, 18><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x0307E9>

<Label 0x0307E9>
<Delay 17><ClearBG><26, 01><0A, 0C><04, 27, 00><04, 28, 01><04, 29, 02><25, 0E><ClearText> Having come this far, I take a deep breath. It's almost pitch black inside this room... All I can tell is that it's very large and very cold. I can make out something in a far corner... It's a large metallic structure of some kind.
<Waitpad><ClearText> A billowing voice echoes down from high above.
<FadeIn 70, f8><waitpad>"Finally, you've made it. I was wondering if you pitiful apes would ever show up."
<Waitpad> And there, amidst the shadowy interior of this spacious room...
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 18> ...Lord Lynx awaits!
<PlaySound 00><PlaySong 08><Waitpad> Before him, shimmering off the dank walls and ceiling of this underground cavern, a scarlet jewel radiates a deep, red light!
<Waitpad> The Frozen Flame...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"L... Lynx! I have you now!!" Kid shouts, feral.
<Waitpad>"I beg to differ, young lady!" Lynx taunts, leaping down from the rocks, dashing towards her with amazing speed!
<Waitpad> Kid takes on a battle stance as she readies herself for him. However, he quickly dodges her attack, picking her up and tossing her through the air as though like a ragdoll!
<Waitpad><ClearText><call 0x000da0><Delay 0C>"Urrghh..."
<waitpad>"Kid!"
<Waitpad> She's been thrown backwards onto a wall behind us, as Lynx returns to near where he stood, unfazed!
<Waitpad> I run over and scoop Kid up into my arms.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Oh, how sweet. The apes care for each other. However, I would be more worried about yourself, young man!" Lynx shouts, laughing at the top of his lungs.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 3C><ClearBG> That beast... There has to be something I can do. But, he's so fast! I've never seen anybody move like that...
<waitpad> As Lynx continues to laugh, I try desperately to ignore him and fight off this sudden feeling of hopelessness.
<waitpad> What would Magil do at a time like this... Wait, where is Magil? I haven't seen him since we came in...
<Waitpad><ClearText><playsong 00><PlaySound 21><PlaySound 21><PlaySound 21> Wait, what's that?
<Waitpad> Is that... a guitar?
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 02, FF> Just a second ago, a strange sound echoed throughout the huge cavern. It couldn't have been Lynx... he seemed to be caught off guard by the sound as much as I was.
<waitpad> Suddenly, a figure comes forth from out of a dark corner of the room!
<waitpad><cleartext> Carrying a portable amp at his side and a shiny guitar across his chest, electrified sounds continue to roar throughout the cavern again and again as the figure continues to come towards us!
<waitpad> It's... Magil!
<Delay 17><FadeIn 70, 01><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 0A><Delay 03><FadeOut 70, 01><Waitpad><ClearText> Wait... Magil!?
<waitpad> From what I can tell, it looks like him. Sort of.
<waitpad> Although having somehow changed into skin-tight, riveted jeans, trendy goggles, and a cool-looking shirt exposing his defined torso, it seems to be Magil in the flesh.
<Waitpad> Lights shine up from behind him, dazzlingly illuminating his glistening spiked hair and ponytail!
<Call 0x0388AF><PlaySound 21><Waitpad><ClearText>"M, Magil...!? What do ya think yer doin'?" Kid asks, recovering from her daze.
<Waitpad> But Magil says nothing, continuing on with his enthusiastic solo.
<PlaySound 15><Waitpad><ClearText>"Aahhhhhh!! Nooo!!"
<Waitpad>"Th, that noise! Stop! Stop that noise!!" Lynx shouts, holding his ears.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What's that? You'd like a little `Stairway to Heaven'? Your wish is my command!" Magil shouts with a huge smile, before wailing on the guitar even louder!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Before long, it seems like Lynx is going mad, listening to the harsh dissonance.
<waitpad> His head starts to vibrate, before swelling up more and more like a balloon!
<waitpad> Then, all of a sudden, his head pops!
<playsound 0e><waitpad> At the same time, a countless number of cracks start to run up his body, <PlaySound 37>snapping away <PlaySound 37>parts of his body piece<PlaySound 37> by piece, until a number <PlaySound 37>of slender, green <PlaySound 37>tentacles make their way through his body, <PlaySound 37>writhing all around him!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Whoa... What's going on!?"
<Waitpad>"Serge," Kid says, rising to her feet. "this's a bigger fight than I expected... I'm countin' on ya, you got that?"
<Waitpad><ClearBG>"I don't know, Kid... I can't throw myself into the thick of battle now! Who would narrate the story if something was to happen to me?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Suddenly, the remains of Lynx fly out in all directions!
<FadeIn 70, 05><PlaySound 1D><Delay 03><PlaySound 1C><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 08><Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 05> And with that, Lynx has completed his metamorphosis!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000BE2><FadeIn 70, 78><ClearText><Delay 1E> A gigantic, slimy, lime green octopus stands before us, eagerly awaiting our doom!
<Waitpad><PlaySong 05><Volume 02, FF><ClearText>"I have you now, Martian Conjurer!" Magil shouts! "I have searched the galaxy for over five hundred years for you, wretched H-Class Space Criminal!
<waitpad> I have hidden my identity as a mere human, traveling with these people in order to track you to this very spot. But now, such tricks are no longer necessary! Behold, for I am Universal Detective <Call 0x0388AF><PlaySound 06><Delay 02><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 0F>Mick Van Jovi!"<Call 0x0388BC><PlaySound 10><Delay 0C><PlaySound 00>
<Waitpad><ClearText> As soon as Magil, er, Mick says this, light streaks out from all around him. When I can see again, he's changed again into some sort of polished metallic body armor!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><PlaySound 10><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A>"And now... I come for you!"
<Waitpad> Magil turns towards the grotesque octopus, and hurls himself into the air!
<FadeOut 70, 01><FadeIn 70, 01><Delay 02><FadeOut 70, 01><FadeIn 70, 01><Delay 02><Call 0x000BEF><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><FadeOut 70, 01><FadeIn 70, 01><Delay 02><FadeOut 70, 01><FadeIn 70, 01><Delay 02><Call 0x0388CC><PlaySound 1C><Waitpad><ClearText> The octopus takes on a look of shock and disgust as Mick reveals himself.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, my ever trendy antithesis, Mick Van Jovi... so, you have finally found me.
<Waitpad> ...It was because of you that I was forced to flee Mars. Fleeing in haste, I accidentally crash-landed on this hellhole planet! My fusion reactor was rendered useless, leaving me stranded here, all because of you!"
<waitpad><cleartext>"I... I was forced to eat my own ship to survive!" he continues, sobbing. "The control panel... the steering wheel... I even had to boil down the seat mat for food!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"...And now, five hundred years later, you come to arrest me just as I have finished repairing my fusion core?" he yells, nodding to the Frozen Flame!
<waitpad> The Frozen Flame... a fusion reactor!?
<Waitpad><cleartext> Within Magil's eyes, a silver flash of light shines out as a pale pulse runs down his glimmering armor.
<Call 0x0388CC><PlaySound 21><Waitpad>"Ah, the Martian Cyclone Crystal Fusion Reactor. Too bad that after I'm done with you, the reactor won't be the one needing five hundred years of repairing!"
<Waitpad><Volume 20, 00><PlaySong 00><Volume 02, FF><ClearText>"Not if I can help it!" the Martian Octopus shouts!
<waitpad><cleartext> Not missing a beat, Lynx instantly starts to shoot his heavy grey pistol at us, showering the room with jagged beams of light!
<Delay 07><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 18> While we're busy dodging the plethora of light rays, Lynx suddenly snatches the Frozen Flame, and runs into the huge metallic saucer-shaped object over in the corner!
<Waitpad> In a flash, the thing starts up, rising high above us in a matter of seconds! The thing could easily weigh ten thousand tons, yet it hovers over us as easily as a bird!
<waitpad><ClearText><Volume 20, 00><Delay 0F><PlaySong 0E><volume 05, ff>"How do you like my new and improved Galaxy Mothership?" we hear Lynx's voice boom throughout the cavern. "I apologize, but I do believe I will not be coming back to Mars with you, my dear Van Jovi!"
<waitpad> The ship fires an even more intense barrage of ammunition at us, causing the walls and ceiling around us to crumble and break apart!<Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 02><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x0388CC><Delay 02>
<Waitpad><cleartext> Aaaahhh!! The cavern is collapsing all around us! Boulders of all sizes are frantically raining down on us!
<call 0x000da0><waitpad> Oh no! Magil's been struck down by a huge boulder! He's helplessly tapped beneath it!
<call 0x000da0><waitpad>"Magil! No!!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> I rush over to him and push the gigantic boulder off! The boulder seems to have crushed some of his armor, though! He's hurt bad!
<waitpad>"Feel like running yet, fools?" Lynx shouts from inside his cockpit.
<waitpad><cleartext>"We gotta get outta here!"
<waitpad>"We can't just leave Mick though," I shout at Kid! "Look at all that armor he's got on... it'll be impossible to carry him out! Even with three people, it would still be tough!"
<Waitpad><Volume 30, 00><ClearText>"...Don't... don't worry about me," Magil mutters, as his armored fingers suddenly grasp my ankle.
<PlaySong 02><Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 20, FF>"Serge..." Magil gasps. "Th, the M, Mart, Martian For, Forest League J, Jun, Junior..."
<delay 05>"The bunny," I interrupt.
<waitpad>"Yes," he says. "The b, bunny... use it..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Ah! Of course! The bunny!
<Waitpad> Taking the soft puppet out of my pocket, I look back over to Ma, er, Mick.
<Waitpad>"Serge... Use it... as I have shown you... it is a m, multi-use d, detonator. And please, look after Kid, if death c, comes for me..."
<Waitpad> I clench my fists as I raise my head, looking up towards Lynx's dreadful ship.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Lynx! Behold!" I shout, raising my hand up into the air, pointing the bunny towards the ship!
<PlaySound 21><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 17><Volume 20, 00><Delay 0F><Waitpad><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><ClearText><PlaySong 08><ClearText>"You! Where did you get that!?" Lynx shrieks.
<PlaySound 0F><Delay 0C><PlaySound 0D><Waitpad><ClearText>"No," he continues, "You must not use it! Please, it will negate the stability of the fusion reactor! It will kill us all!!"
<waitpad> I look down to Magil. Dammit, I mean Mick. I look down towards Mick, who nods back at me confidently.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Ignoring Lynx's pleas, I close my eyes, and mimic the enchantment Magil performed earlier with utmost care.
<waitpad>"Heat cup... provolone... soccer mom...!!"
<waitpad><fadeout 90, 60><cleartext><delay 20><fadein 90, 00>"Good, S, Serge. The detonation sequence h, has been initiated. It's on a t, timed delay," Mick says. "We must escape before that ship detonates!"
<waitpad><fadeout 70, 50><delay 30><cleartext> Kid and I hoist his heavy body up and start to drag him out of the spacious cavern.
<waitpad> We're not very far out, when suddenly...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><PlaySound 10> A giant explosion rocks the entire area around us!
<24, 18, 78><Delay 26> From far behind, we hear Lynx shriek "My ship...!" over and over again!
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 9F, 0A><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearText> The walls around us are beginning to tremble and shake more and more! Oh no, the entire mansion is collapsing!
<waitpad>"Run, Serge!" Mick shouts, as Kid and I desperately try to scamper away faster!
<waitpad> Mick seems to have regained a bit of strength and adrenaline, helping us by limping a bit as we carry his incredibly heavy body through the dark, twisted corridors of Viper Manor.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000D02><FadeIn 70, 0A> Come on... please... don't cave in just yet...
<Delay 0F><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 03> Dammit, just a little longer... please...!
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x0009C4><FadeIn 70, 0A> Yes! We're out!
<waitpad> Looking back on the mansion from a safe distance, we watch it collapse under its own weight! It comes toppling down into what looks like a sweltering black hole, infused with a deep Martian redness!
<Delay 0F><Call 0x0009D2><PlaySong 00><PlaySound 15><Delay F0><delay a0><Waitpad><ClearText><volume 80, 00> I let out a deep breath as I stare up into the nighttime sky.
<waitpad> Suddenly, however, a small group of what looks like flying saucers come flying out of where the mansion used to be, soaring up into the stratosphere!
<volume 00, ff><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Delay 02><PlaySound 20><Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 07> Supporting Mick on both sides, we stare up at the ascending getaway ships.
<waitpad>"Don't take it too rough, Mick. At least we made it out alive. Tomorrow's another day..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Indeed," he replies. "They're pedal-powered escape pods... They won't get too far."
<waitpad> Looking up as they soar over our heads, I see that he's right. Within the translucent center of one of the pods, I see what looks like Lynx, crammed in with a goblin, who's being barked at by Lynx to pedal twice as fast, in order to keep the ship afloat.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Hmmm... yeah, I think you're right," I say. "Human power can't be much of a replacement for a nice fusion reactor, especially when talking about interstellar travel."
<Waitpad><cleartext> I look over to Kid. But, ironically enough, instead of the pouting face I expected, it seems like there's a quality about her that I don't think she had before... something more at ease about her, in a subtle sort of way.
<Waitpad>"Tonight, we rest. Tomorrow, the search continues," says Mick, triumphantly.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Delay 17> 


        <textspeed 04>And so, for this adventure, we have come to...
<delay 10>                              THE END.
<delay 30>                      (or is it!?!?!?!<delay 05>1/1/1/1/1/1/1/1/1)
<Delay 35><Volume 80, 00><FadeOut F0, 5A><call 0x007474><ClearText><delay 30><Set 0x1496 to 01><Volume 02, FF><Goto 0x00048C>

<Label 0x03203E>
 However, I fall to the ground again almost immediately. Apparently that last blow was all my frail body could handle...
<Waitpad> All I can think of is how I never thought it'd end up like this, as I slip down that inevitable, never-ending chasm of death...
<Delay 0C><FadeOut EF, F0><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x0320CF>
<Waitpad><ClearBG><Set 0x14E0 to 01><FadeIn 70, 01>"So, which way do we go now...?" I ask, wiping the chilly sweat from my brow.
<24, 45, 3C><24, C8, 3C><24, F8, 02><Delay 21><FadeOut 70, 01><delay 03><ClearText><delay 0a> What was that? I could have sworn I saw a faint light illuminating the hallway just then.
<Waitpad> It's probably just the moonlight shining in through a skylight, I tell myself. However, looking up at the ceiling, no such skylight can be found...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey, Serge! What are ya starin' at? We got a job to do here!"
<Waitpad> I look down the hallway only to see Kid, already barely visible down the long, dark corridor.
<delay 0a><choice 0x00A475> *I better not cross her. Go catch up with her right away. 
<Choice 0x03227D> *Take another second to see about that light.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03227D>
<Set 0x149D to 01><Set 0x149B to 01><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><Volume 30, 00>
<ClearText> There's something here, I'm sure of it. It was a faint light, sort of like a camera flash, but much more subtle. It couldn't have been the moonlight.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Serge, what are ya, paralyzed? Come on!" Kid says, coming back towards me.
<Waitpad>"There's something here, Kid..."
<waitpad> Just as I start to think that it could have been my imagination, suddenly...
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><Call 0x000BC3><FadeIn 65, ff><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 04><Delay 0D>
 ...Wearing a tattered old priest's robe,
<Delay 08>      a figure of a young lady materializes above us.
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 20>


            <textspeed 04>"......Finally... <Delay 0C><Call 0x000BCE>you have come..."<call 0x007474>
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 20> That voice... it's so strange! It's like it's resonating inside my head...
<waitpad>"Kid... can you hear that?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> I'm not even sure if I just said that... could this all be a dream?
<Waitpad> Before I have time to think, Kid and Magil come up beside me, also staring at the apparition. Okay, now I know this is real. It's too real to be a dream.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 5A><Volume 30, 00><ClearBG><Delay 17>"Wh, where'd she go?"
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 0F><Volume 20, FF> Black magic... witchcraft... necromancy...
<Waitpad> I've seen all sorts of different types of stuff in the past, but this... I don't think I've ever been faced with anything like this before.
<Waitpad> On the other hand, Magil stands there with his usual cool composure. I doubt this is the first time he's dealing with something like this.
<Waitpad><ClearText> A wave of anxiety runs through my entire body, standing here in this dark, damp hallway.
<Waitpad> I wonder... should we even be here? Was this a message of some kind to leave? Just by standing here, we might be desecrating the memory of the dead...
<waitpad> The girl's face shines out in my mind. She seemed so sad...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I do not believe this will necessarily help with our mission. Let us move on."
<Waitpad> I've never been so quick to agree with Magil. Kid doesn't seem to have any objections either.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x00A475>

<Label 0x032694>
<Volume 20, 00><If 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0326A3><Goto 0x03382B>

<Label 0x0326A3>
<PlaySong 0F><ClearText> The door's locked...
<Volume 10, FF><Waitpad><delay 10> ...But not for long.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Before Magil can even offer an unlock spell, I notice Kid combing her fingers through her hair, revealing a hairpin after a moment or two. Kneeling down by the door, she fiddles around with the lock for a bit, and after a while, unlocks it with a click.
<playsound 01><Waitpad><PlaySound 28><Call 0x0039F4><delay 1e><ClearBG> That was almost too easy...
<Waitpad><fadeout 90, 30><delay 30><cleartext><fadein 90, 00> An amazing sight is spread before our eyes... I don't quite know what to think of it. We're in some sort of treasure vault, with piles of gold, silver, and other sparkling treasure stacked in piles throughout the room.
<waitpad> But that's not the half of it...
<waitpad><ClearText><FadeIn 50, 0A><Delay 0E> Looking out towards the far end, an even more remarkable sight catches my eye.
<waitpad> Halfway into the room, the piles of treasure turn into somewhat of a beach, followed by a glistening ocean. It's all a huge diorama, with every single object crafted from gems or precious metal...
<waitpad><cleartext> The ocean, however, is perfectly calm. No, calm isn't the word for it -- it's as still as glass. The glistening sheen of every undulating whitecap here seems to be frozen in time, stirred up like crystal valleys against the jade-like reefs of nearby islands.
<waitpad><cleartext> I walk out onto the beach and bend down to touch the unmoving water, but it's not frozen... just motionless.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000CE9><Delay 0A>
<cleartext><FadeIn 70, bC> A polished metallic siren, adorned with scales of mica and hair of platinum, stands proudly on a nearby island, with a mysterious smile on its face.
<waitpad> In its life-like hand, almost obscured by a crashing wave, is an object of rare beauty. This stone, gripped tightly by the pearl-colored hand, seems as though it's capturing this ocean's stormy essence within its deep red center.
<Waitpad><cleartext>Indeed, this is the object we've been seeking. Yet it's out of our grasp, if by only a small distance, seized within the hand of this suspicious-looking metallic contraption.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000C8D><FadeIn 70, 0A><ClearText> ...The Frozen Flame...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"There it is! Serge, get yer scaffold!" Kid shouts, unable to suppress her highly strung heart any longer.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000CE9><FadeIn 70, 0A> However, I hesitate. There's more to this than meets the eye, I tell myself as I glance at Magil. His eyes tell me the same.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x033668> *Look around for a while longer. 
<Choice 0x032B55> *I haven't come this far to fall into fear of the unknown. Do as Kid says, going for the Flame.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x032B55>
<ClearText> I take the bamboo scaffold out of my bag.
<waitpad> The oriental monocotyledon it's crafted from is extremely light, durable, and elastic; perfect for travel.
<Waitpad> I place it on the ground and we go to work, assembling the bridge-like structure.
<Waitpad><cleartext> I stand back after a few moments, looking at the finished product spread out on the beach. Kid tests it by stepping on it lightly, then adding a little more weight, until she finally stands on it firm. It appears solid enough.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I nod to Kid as Magil and I take the scaffold and swing it over to the small island, connecting the two pieces of land together.
<waitpad> I let out a deep, shaky breath as Kid takes her first step out. The scaffold gives a little, but stays afloat. The siren maintains its ominous stare as Kid approaches.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 10, 00> The distance between the two closes with each passing step. Before long, she reaches the reef, and is within arm's length of the Flame.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Come on, take it," I whisper, my fists clenched.
<Waitpad> She reaches out, ever so slowly. Her head turns from the Flame to the siren's face and back, as her hand draws closer and closer.
<Waitpad> Those deep, aquamarine eyes remain vacant and still...
<Waitpad><Volume 01, FF><ClearText><PlaySound 06><Call 0x0388BC><Call 0x000D7D> But wait! No! The siren is starting to move!
<waitpad><Delay 08><Volume 10, FF><PlaySong 05>"Kid! Get out of there! It's coming to life!" but Kid's already on her way back with the Frozen Flame in hand!
<waitpad><cleartext><fadeout 70, 20><Call 0x000CF7><fadein 70, 20><delay 20> The churning of the siren's metallic innards increases, getting louder and louder by the second. The sound rips through my eardrums as I watch its movements become more and more fluid!
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 0F><Delay 05><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 03><PlaySound 09> Just as the siren starts to move, the ocean comes to life as well! Somehow, the waves start to churn and toil, gaining increasing vigor and momentum the more the siren awakens!
<Waitpad><24, 44, 3C> The siren turns and takes a step towards Kid, who's now back on the scaffold. She's having trouble maintaining balance above the now violent body of water, as it crashes and bubbles mere inches beneath her feet!
<waitpad> Pursued by this relentless, inorganic beast, she desperately tries to make her way home...
<waitpad><cleartext> ......! Oh no! Kid's slipped on a wet spot! She falls into the water head first with a splash!
<playsound 07><waitpad> The surging waves splash all around her, mercilessly thrashing all around!
<waitpad> The siren starts to come for Kid, trudging ever so slowly into the whitecapped frenzy.
<waitpad><Call 0x0388DC> A sudden wave smashes into Kid, and after it recedes, I can't even see her head anymore! Please, God, don't let her drown...!
<Waitpad><cleartext> I see her hand emerge a few seconds later, desperately reaching out, trying to grab onto something!
<waitpad> I have to save her... distract that siren... anything...!
<Waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly a flash flies through the air. It's Magil! He's shooting his silver needles at the siren!
<waitpad> One of them hits it directly between the eyes! Platinum colored blood starts to gush out of the hole!
<Call 0x0388AF><waitpad><cleartext> However, it does nothing to stop the unrelenting, robotic beast, now only a few feet from Kid! Its mouth begins to open to an unnatural extent, like that of a gigantic snake!
<Waitpad><24, 44, 3C> Dammit, what am I going to do!?
<delay 0a><Choice 0x033104> *Dive into the water! 
<Choice 0x033491> *Throw my knife at it!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x033104>
<ClearText><Add 0A to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x033115><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x033115>
<24, 44, 3C> I dive in without a moment's notice!
<waitpad> I try to open my eyes underwater to find Kid, but the instant I do, I'm forced to shut them from the salty sting of seawater!
<Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x033180><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x033724>

<Label 0x033180>
 Coming up for air, I try to find Kid among the vigorously crashing waves. She's a ways ahead of me, bobbing in and out of the water... I have to be quick!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Swimming over to where I last saw her, a hand suddenly floats up to the surface of the water! I grab on, and pull up with all my might.
<Waitpad><24, CF, 3C> The hand is rotted away below the wrist, however...
<Waitpad><cleartext> Corpses suddenly start to emerge all around me! These half-rotten, waterlogged bodies should be dead and lifeless, but somehow, they're all coming for me, trying to pull me under!
<waitpad><cleartext> I quickly dive underwater, swimming as fast as I can away from the pack of bodies. <24, 24, 3C>I come up for air, spotting Kid just a few feet in front of me! She's spitting water out of her mouth, only moments away from drowning!
<waitpad><cleartext>"Kid! Come on, hurry!!"
<24, CF, 3C><waitpad> I grab her hand and dive deep underneath the stormy water. Swimming away, I accidentally bump into one of the corpses! Just as I feel all of them start to crowd around us, I unsheathe my knife and blindly hack away!
<24, AF, 3C><Waitpad><cleartext> Clinging tightly to Kid's hand, I swim and swim until I can't hold my breath any longer!
<waitpad><Volume 80, 00> Coming up for air, I realize we've made it! I take her up into my arms and carry her ashore. She's barely conscious...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0332DF>

<Label 0x0332DF>
<Set 0x14E8 to 01><playsong 00><volume 00, ff><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 2D><ClearText><Call 0x000C8D><Delay 0F> Ughh...
<waitpad> Lying next to me, Kid coughs a bit, spitting up sea water. I try to calm her down, and after a few moments, she rests peacefully on the glittering beach.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, I notice something... it's quiet. Perfectly quiet. I look up, wondering what just happened.
<waitpad> The ocean has reverted back to how it once was -- perfectly still, like a slice in time once again. The corpses are nowhere to be found.
<waitpad><cleartext> The siren has resumed its original pose, subtly perched on the far island, with that mysterious smile once again streaked across its face.
<waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 07><FadeIn 70, ff> After a few moments, Kid holds the Frozen Flame up over her head, staring into its shimmering beauty.
<waitpad>"Well, we got what we came for."
<waitpad><cleartext> She's right. I stand up and shake myself off, relieved it's all over with. I help her to her feet, eager to get out of here.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 2A><volume 50, 00><delay 20><ClearBG><ClearText><playsong 00><volume 00, ff><Set 0x14B6 to 01><Goto 0x006175>

<Label 0x033491>
<ClearText><24, 44, 3C> I take aim, trying to calm my nerves. This one's for Kid, sucker...
<waitpad> I throw my knife with blinding speed, but it does nothing but bounce off the siren's head!
<playsound 22><waitpad>"Dammit!"
<waitpad> However, it causes the siren to lose balance, and come crashing down into the water!
<playsound 07><Waitpad><ClearText> Wait a second... what's that!? Corpses are beginning to float up to the surface of the water! The crashing waves push the half-rotten bodies all around Kid!
<waitpad> No... the current isn't pushing them... they're swimming on their own!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Magil! The corpses! Get the corpses!!"
<Waitpad> Without a moment of hesitation, Magil sends a focused shockwave blasting into the water, tearing the rotten bodies to shreds!
<Waitpad> Kid scampers ashore, scared stiff of this sudden mess of scattered body parts!
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, AF, 3C><Volume 60, 00> I help Kid onto the beach. She's exhausted. A wash of relief comes over us all, as I realize she's going to be all right.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0332DF>

<Label 0x033668>
<ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x033679><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x033679>
<Call 0x0388DC><Call 0x000DA0> Ouch!
<waitpad>"What was that for? You don't have to slap me every time you disagree with me..."
<waitpad>"Look, mate! Just let me have yer scaffold and I'll take care of the rest, awright?"
<Waitpad> It's no use... I suppose if I'm going to face pain no matter what I do, we might as well get the Frozen Flame...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x032B55>

<Label 0x033724>
 Coming up for air, before I know it a wave comes crashing into me! And then another! I catch a mouthful of this disgusting sea water, and then another! I open my eyes but I'm only assaulted by more and more sea water!
<Waitpad><ClearText> I cough and cough, but I can't stop this endless chain of waves from tugging me down... down into the deep, dark, deadly sea...
<waitpad> Straight down...
<Waitpad><Volume 20, 00><FadeOut F0, 78><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x03382B>
<Volume 10, 00><cleartext><PlaySong 0F><Volume 10, FF><FadeOut 70, 0A><delay 20><Call 0x000CF7><FadeIn 69, 0A><ClearText> The siren and its menacing smile welcome us back to the treasure vault, just as we left it.
<waitpad> Although this time, the Frozen Flame is in our hands.
<Waitpad>"...<delay 10>Let's go, this place is buggin' me out," Kid says after a moment, exiting before I can even say anything.
<Waitpad> We follow her out.
<Waitpad><Volume 05, 00><FadeOut 70, 0A><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x006175>

<Label 0x033922>
<Volume 10, FF><PlaySong 0F><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000A52><FadeIn 70, 05><delay 18><FadeOut 70, 0A><delay 10><FadeIn 70, 0A><PlaySound 06><ClearText><Delay 0F> Uhhh...
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><delay 18><FadeIn 70, 05><delay 10>"...Shouldn't the terrace be here?"
<Waitpad> We've been walking long enough, but somehow, the walls seem to extend on without any end in sight...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Yer just shook up from what happened back there, mate," Kid says. "C'mon, the terrace's right up here."
<waitpad> ......
<Waitpad>"No, that wood handrail with the big knot in it, I remember it clearly. We just passed it a minute ago. We're going in circles..."
<waitpad><cleartext>"Circles!? What a load! We're walkin' on a straight path! Can't you see it?" she shouts, pointing down the dark corridor. "See? Straight!"
<waitpad>"I know, Kid! I'm just... I don't know..."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x033AB5> *Keep on going straight ahead, determined to find an answer. 
<Choice 0x033B1A> *Turn back the way we came.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x033AB5>
<ClearText><FadeOut 70, 28><delay 20><FadeIn 70, 14><Delay 17><PlaySound 1F>"Here it is again... the same knot."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x033B7D>

<Label 0x033B1A>
<ClearText><FadeOut 70, 28><delay 20><Call 0x000C3F><FadeIn 70, 14><Delay 17><PlaySound 1F>"Here it is... the same knot..."
<waitpad>"...It's all a big trick! That's all it is! Well har, har, har, ya bastard!" Kid yells.
<waitpad> What are we going to do...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x033B7D>

<Label 0x033B7D>
<ClearText>"This is bloody ridiculous! Why did we come all the way out here!? For this!?!? Look at us, we can't even find our way out of a blasted house!!"
<waitpad> Kid's going into hysteria... I wish I could do something but to be honest I'm not that much better off right now...
<waitpad><cleartext>"This is friggin crazy! We're goin' in circles!!!!! We never should have come out here, we never should have done this!!! We're lost, God Dammit!!!! What are we supposed to do now!?!?!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 00>"Look Kid, nobody needs all the yelling..." I say, frustrated.
<waitpad>"Who asked you, ya lame-brained sack'a..."
<waitpad> Suddenly, Magil comes up behind us and touches us on the back of our necks. I don't know what he's doing, but it instantly calms me down... and by the looks <delay 03>(and sounds) of it, Kid as well.
<waitpad> I lean against the wall for a second, trying to think of what to do. Kid stoops down, miserable.
<waitpad><cleartext>"We are being toyed with," Magil says. "Look closely, down the center of the hallway. See how the walls subtly warp. This is all an illusion of some sort. Apparently, someone or something does not want us to advance any further."
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Well congratu-frickin-lations, Lynx! Ya got us walkin' in circles! Bet yer mighty proud of yerself! So now what are ya gonna do? Play some more games, or fight like a man?"
<waitpad> Frustrated, she storms down the hallway once again.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Set 0x14E2 to 01><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 01><If 0x1519 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x033DC3><Goto 0x005916>

<Label 0x033DBF>
<Goto 0x033DC7>

<Label 0x033DC3>
<Goto 0x00DC89>

<Label 0x033DC7>
<cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000C3F><delay 10><FadeIn 70, 0A>"When's this bloody passageway gonna end..."
<delay 20><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><delay 10><FadeIn 70, 0A>
<ClearText> The terrace is nowhere in sight.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x003E60> *Continue on through the passage. 
<Choice 0x00A475> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x033E2E>
<cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000A52><delay 10><FadeIn 70, 0A>"Dammit... when's this bloody passageway gonna end..."
<delay 20><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><delay 10><FadeIn 70, 0A>
<ClearText> The terrace is nowhere to be found.
<delay 0a><choice 0x00A475> *Continue on through the passage. 
<Choice 0x003E60> *Turn back.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x033E94>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000C37><delay 20><FadeIn 70, 0A><ClearText>"What's that strange look on yer face for, mate?"
<Waitpad>"I don't know... I just... I don't have a good feeling about this place."
<Waitpad>"Aw, c'mon, mate. You never have a good feelin' about anything."
<waitpad><If 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x033FE9>"It's just, after what we went through with the treasure vault and all... I don't know, maybe I am just being a worry wart."
<waitpad>

<Label 0x033FE9>
<cleartext>"Well, you sure ya wanna keep on goin'?" Kid asks with an unusually serious face.
<Waitpad> Somehow, I find myself nodding silently, ignoring the warnings in my head.
<Waitpad><cleartext> I remember something someone told me a while ago about this place...
<Waitpad><27, 05>"Everything in that mansion answers to Lord Lynx," he said. "The creatures... the walls... the statues... everything. If you understand the concept of power by fear and control, then you understand Lynx."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x0039E7><Set 0x14E3 to 01><Set 0x14B4 to 01> Magil strokes his chin, calmly examining the gigantic doors before us. There's bound to be something important in here -- these dark mahogany doors tower above us, emanating an unmistakable sense of intimidation.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x00EDC9> *"Let's try somewhere else first," I say, turning around after all. 
<Choice 0x01DC19> *"...All set?" I ask, taking a deep breath, pushing the doors open slowly.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x034159>
<Set 0x14B4 to 01><Set 0x14EA to 01><ClearText><Volume 10, 00> As expected, these are Lynx's quarters.
<Waitpad> Or should I say, `were'...
<Waitpad><PlaySong 06><Volume 30, FF> Staring at the sight before our eyes, all I can do is gasp in silence, half surprised, half terrified.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 2A><ClearText><delay 20> To put it simply, Lynx is quite certainly in this room.
<waitpad><Call 0x000BD2> ...However, not as we expected.
<waitpad><cleartext><delay 20><FadeIn 70, DA> Lynx's corpse has been hastily stashed in the couch on the far end of the room. Only his mangled hand is visible, sticking out from beneath a cushion.
<waitpad><cleartext> Kid goes over and slowly lifts up one of the cushions.
<waitpad> I don't know if it's the smell or the sight that makes her gag. But yes, it's definitely Lynx under there.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I never expected any of this when I came here tonight. I mean, rumors of Lord Lynx's reign have been going around as strong as ever. Although when I think about it, his reputation alone could probably carry on such a regime. I wonder how long it's been since this happened...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It can't be. That genocidal, terror-driven maniac... he burnt the temple and abducted Shea... how can he be dead already? I wanted my revenge...!" Kid mutters, tears swelling in her eyes.
<waitpad> Shea... hmm... where have I heard that name before...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"No one knows Lynx is dead except for us... We must be the first ones to find out about it."
<Waitpad>"...Heh, or maybe not," Kid adds.
<Waitpad> Her attempt at humor only succeeds in causing my feeling of dread to grow even stronger...
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 5A><delay 10> ..................
<Delay 0C> ............
<Delay 0C> ......
<Delay 0C> ...
<Delay 0C><fadeout 90, 30><delay 10><cleartext><fadein 90, 00><Call 0x000A66><FadeIn 70, 0A><ClearText>"Strange..."
<Waitpad> Magil kneels down and lifts off the cushions, examining the corpse as though he was a coroner.
<Waitpad>"Hey, I always liked a nice firm seat," Kid says, pretending to sit down on it.
<waitpad> Enough with the bad jokes already, Kid...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"This corpse has no life-essence," Magil continues.
<waitpad>"Isn't that how corpses usually are?" I ask.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Generally, yes. When a person dies, one's consciousness, or spirit, is separated from the body. Normally, as the spirit leaves the body, the corpse will crumble over time. However, in this case, this corpse is aged, but it has not even started to crumble at all yet. It is merely without moisture."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Lynx's spirit has not yet been released."
<waitpad>"So that means..."
<waitpad>"Yes, his spirit is still here, probably somewhere within this mansion."
<Waitpad><cleartext> Magil seems unusually disturbed by all this. First the phantom, then that whole siren thing, now this... even he's having trouble keeping his cool.
<waitpad> We're in over our heads.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Lynx was apparently slain by a blade," Magil says, pointing to a gash in his belly.
<waitpad> Looking around, he finds the murder weapon. It's a bloody sword, stashed behind a chair. "An Acacian sword... interesting."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Magil tries to remain focused, racking his brain for information.
<Waitpad>"If a body and its spirit have been detached in this manner, the body will yearn for its spirit. It will transform into a sort of bottomless well, endlessly seeking spirits until it finds its own."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What does that have to do with us? <delay 10>...Oh," Kid says solemnly.
<Waitpad><Volume 35, 00><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG>
<ClearText><playsong 00> Something's happening...
<waitpad><PlaySong 16><volume 80, ff> This room, no, the whole house... all around us, the walls are starting to creak...
<Waitpad><ClearText> There's something in here, waiting for us. I can feel it on the back of my neck.
<waitpad><volume 80, 00> I whip around with my knife ready, but nothing's there.
<waitpad> Suddenly, something grabs my arm! Oh no, get it off me! I whip around again, but it's only Kid!
<waitpad>"Get a grip, mate! It's just me!"
<waitpad> Phew...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"We've got the Flame. Lynx is dead. Why do we even need to be here anymore!? Come on, let's go!" she shouts. She's right, screw this place!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"If we can get out of here at all," Magil adds, standing up.
<waitpad><volume 80, ff> And then, the walls begin to creak again. We look around...
<waitpad> The lights flicker. Don't go out... Please, God, don't go out...
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000BC3><Delay 1C>"...Kid..."
<waitpad><volume 80, 00> We instantly whip around. The voice is coming from the mirror!
<waitpad><FadeIn 68, fA><Delay 2C><Call 0x000BCE><Delay 0C>"Finally... you have come."
<Call 0x000BCE><Waitpad><cleartext> ...That girl... the one from before... It's her! She's here, faintly floating within the mirror!
<playsong 00><volume 02, ff><delay 08><choice 0x034A51> *"Aaaahhhh! We've got to get out of here!!"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x034E78> *"Do you know her, Kid?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x034A51>
<Subtract 05 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x034A61><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x034A61>
<FadeOut 50, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText> I bolt towards the door!
<Waitpad><Call 0x0039E7> Dammit! Locked! I pull and pull on the door, but nothing happens!
<waitpad> There has to be a release lever for the door somewhere... something that was flipped the moment we closed it!
<waitpad> Ah! there it is!
<waitpad><cleartext> I reach up and pull on the wire! But then...
<waitpad><PlaySound 00><PlaySong 05>"Serge! What are you doin'!?" Kid shouts, but it's too late! A faint hiss can be heard, somewhere in the room.
<Waitpad> A booby trap...!
<waitpad><cleartext> I continue to bang on the door, scratching and clawing... anything to get out of here!
<Waitpad> There's not enough time to think! Help!!
<PlaySound 10><Delay 05><PlaySound 00><Call 0x0388DC><Delay 02><Call 0x0388BC><FadeOut 70, 3C><ClearBG><ClearText><Delay 14> The thunderous explosion engulfs us all, turning over furniture and scorching the walls as we're hurled like ragdolls across the room!
<Waitpad><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x034D3F><Set 0x1514 to 00><ClearText> Urrghh...
<waitpad> I find myself thrown against a wall, upside down. I notice a strange sensation in my neck... and I can't breathe right... and... I can't move! Oh my God...!
<Waitpad><ClearText> I try to scream out, but I can't even muster a whisper.
<Waitpad> Help... I'm suffocating... Kid, please...!
<Waitpad> Help...
<Waitpad><Volume 20, 00><ClearText><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x034D3F>
<ClearText> Urrghh...
<waitpad> I find myself thrown against one of the far walls. Rolling down onto the floor, pain suddenly leaps into my shoulder!
<waitpad> It's dislocated!
<waitpad>"Kid! My shoulder!"
<waitpad> She stumbles over to me rubbing the soot off her face.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Aaaarghh!!"
<playsound 28><waitpad><Volume 30, 00> I thank Kid for popping my shoulder back in, but I'm barely able to fight off the wincing pain.
<Waitpad> Cradling my shoulder, I walk over to Magil. He's not so bad, though... barely hurt at all.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey, look, at least we can get outta here now," Kid says, pointing to the gaping hole where the door handle once was.
<PlaySong 0F><Volume 20, FF><Delay 0C> I groan as I rise to my feet, following my companions out of the smoke-filled room.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x034E78>
<Set 0x14E7 to 01><ClearText><PlaySound 0C>"Sh... Shea...? Is that you!?" Kid says, gazing at the faint apparition with desperate eyes...
<Waitpad><ClearText> I take another look at the girl, barely visible in the reflection. It seems she's saying something, but it's too faint to make anything out.
<Waitpad>"What? What are you saying?" I ask, taking a step closer.
<Waitpad><ClearText><textspeed 04>"...<delay 20>Pain... awful, awful pain... and so...
<call 0x007474><Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText>



           <delay 20>       "...I welcome your souls!!"
<Delay 0F>
<PlaySound 1F>
<Delay 20><fadeout 90, 60><ClearText><fadein 90, 00> A gigantic hand suddenly materializes out of the mirror, grabbing at me!
<waitpad> Magil instantly pulls me back, just as the huge hand is about to seize me!
<playsound 00><waitpad> If not for Magil's lightning quick instincts, who knows what would have happened...
<waitpad> I'm at a loss for words. All I can muster out is "Thanks, Magil... thank you."
<waitpad> I can't tell you how many close calls I owe to him...
<Waitpad><cleartext> All of a sudden, a deep, booming laugh echoes all around us...
<Waitpad>"That bastard... it's Lynx, I know it's him," Kid says, looking around.
<waitpad> As the laugh grows louder and louder, a light begins to shimmer from Kid's backpack. Opening it up, she takes out the Frozen Flame, staring at it as it shines brighter and brighter before our eyes.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Suddenly, a flash of crimson light bursts out from it in all directions! As this happens, the ominous laughing continues to get louder and louder!
<waitpad><cleartext><playsong 05><Call 0x000C8D><FadeIn 70, 0A> Kid's being put under some sort of spell! Her body rises off the floor, motionless, as the stone continues to shine brighter and brighter!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Magil! What's going on!?"
<Call 0x0388BC><Waitpad> Magil closes his eyes, and begins muttering something. Before long, he unleashes a surging aura, arcing directly towards Kid!
<Waitpad> A somber red glow casts its light on everything in the room. The laughing is distorted, and the stone's sparkle begins to lessen!
<Waitpad><volume 90, 00><ClearText>"Is she okay!?" I ask, but I get no response. It seems Magil's suppressing the spell. He's having trouble maintaining it, though.
<Waitpad>"Serge! Take her, now! I can't hold it off for much longer...!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> I grab Kid and rush her outside the dreadful blood-red room. Looking at her, she's as white as a ghost...
<Waitpad> In her trembling hand, she holds a steadfast grip on the Frozen Flame.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 20, 00> Magil meets up with us a moment later, looking completely exhausted.
<waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 3A><delay 20><ClearBG><PlaySong 0F><Volume 10, FF><ClearText><If 0x14E5 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x035208><Goto 0x03520C>

<Label 0x035208>
<Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x03520C>
"Kid! Hey, Kid!"
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A>"Unnff... huh? Where am I?" In that comfortingly familiar voice, Kid slowly starts to recover.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Where do you think you are?" Magil asks.
<waitpad>"Seven."
<waitpad>"Good to have you back, Kid."
<waitpad> I'll never understand these two...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What was that all about, Magil?"
<waitpad>"I do not know. I have rarely seen magic of such a kind. The luminescent seal we saw earlier beneath the cathedral had a similar structure."
<waitpad> There has to be some sort of connection...
<delay 0a><Choice 0x00EDC9> *Let's head back through the corridor. 
<Choice 0x03555D> *Let's get out of here...
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0353A7>
<waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 0F><Set 0x14E6 to 01><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000C37><FadeIn 70, 0A>
<cleartext><delay 20>"We're never gonna get outta here. People have probably been trapped here their whole lives... or longer..."
<waitpad>"Relax, mate. We got enough food here to last us a while."
<waitpad> ...Funny, that didn't really relax me very much...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x0385C5><ClearText><ClearBG>"...Come on, no sense in backin' out now," Kid says all of a sudden.
<Waitpad><Call 0x0039E7> I take a deep breath as we come to the towering set of doors.
<waitpad> Kid gives a push, and they creak open, slowly...
<Volume 00, FF><Call 0x0039F4><delay 08><ClearBG><ClearText><delay 18><Volume 00, 00><Goto 0x0364C9>

<Label 0x03555D>
<ClearText>"This mansion is getting to be way too much for me. I need to get out of here now or else I'm going to go crazy..."
<waitpad>"Don't get yer panties in a bunch, mate. Let's head back to the terrace."
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00DC89>

<Label 0x0355A5>
<delay 18> ...The room is just as we left it, with the dry remains of Lord Lynx dominating our center of attention.
<Delay 17><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000BD2><FadeIn 70, 0A><Waitpad>"Well, he's still dead."
<waitpad><If 0x14E7 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x035651>"We should look elsewhere. Lingering in this room is an unwise idea."
<waitpad> Magil leads the way out.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x035651>
<PlaySong 00><FadeOut 70, 0A><cleartext><Call 0x000BC3> And so, the mirror catches our attention once again.
<Waitpad><FadeIn 70, fE><Delay 28><Goto 0x034E78>

<Label 0x035688>
<ClearText><Set 0x14B4 to 01> Magil pauses, staring at the door handle.
<Waitpad>"What's wrong?" I ask.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"These doors... they're locked, but not with a key. Some type of force field is protecting them."
<waitpad>"Can't you use your magic on it?"
<waitpad> He closes his eyes, slowly extending his hand out towards the handle. But then, just before he touches it, a spark jumps out at his hand!
<playsound 0e><waitpad>"The solution to this riddle lies elsewhere," he says before turning on his heel. Kid and I follow after him, a moment later.
<Waitpad><ClearText><ClearBG><Goto 0x00EDC9>

<Label 0x03571C>
<cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000C87><FadeIn 70, 0A> We start down the staircase, taking us deeper and deeper below ground...
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x035750>

<Label 0x035750>
<PlaySong 0B><Volume 10, FF><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000BAA><FadeIn 70, 0A><ClearText><If 0x14E9 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03576C><Goto 0x035CE4>

<Label 0x03576C>
 We come to a long corridor, flanked with rows of cell after cell.
<Waitpad><ClearText> This place as a unnerving atmosphere about it. I can almost feel its history, where once, somewhere in the past, countless dreadful things must have taken place...
<Waitpad> Crumbling tunics adorn the bleached skeletons in each cell. The weathered, crumbling garments are so faded, I can't even tell their original color or make.
<Waitpad> There's no mistake -- people died here.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Well if it's Lynx's jail, you think there'd be more screamin' going on, or somethin'... anything but this silence," Kid says.
<Waitpad> No, to be perfectly honest, I agree with her. I'd almost welcome some noise other than our own at this point.
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x035C99><Set 0x14E9 to 01>"Serge!"
<waitpad> Kid's scream brings me back to attention. I look where she's pointing...
<Waitpad>"G... ghost..."
<Call 0x000BB0><Waitpad><ClearText> Floating behind the bars is a pale, sad looking ghost. Its resentful eyes don't look very welcoming in the least. An incarcerated death must lead to nothing but a sorrowful afterlife...
<Waitpad><cleartext> Kid takes a step back, unaware she's already almost at the wall. She accidentally bumps into the wall behind her, and suddenly, the Frozen Flame accidentally falls out of her pocket.
<waitpad><cleartext> It bounces onto the ground, stopping a few feet ahead of us. The apparition's eyes go wide, the second it sees it...
<playsound 0d><Waitpad><ClearText>"Uwaaaaaa!" It screeches, instantly backing away!
<Waitpad> The Flame's red light begins to shimmer brighter and brighter, with bolts of red light dancing all around the room!
<Call 0x0388BC><PlaySound 1D><Delay 03><Volume 10, 00><Delay 0C> The ghost, suffering beyond all belief, changes its appearance completely.
<Waitpad> A look of lodged madness changes to terror as it peeks out from behind a corner, desperately avoiding the blood-red light.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"P, please... don't... consume me... please..."
<Waitpad><PlaySong 0F><ClearText> Before long, it whisks itself away, vanishing into thin air, leaving us with nothing behind but our bewildered silence.
<FadeOut 30, 1E><Waitpad><Volume 40, FF>"What just happened..."
<Waitpad> Kid's question is met with nothing but blank stares from Magil and me.
<Waitpad><cleartext> After a moment or two, Magil reaches down for the Frozen Flame, staring at its subdued luminescence. "Come, there are more secrets to be gleamed within this mansion. But, remember what we have seen here."
<waitpad><cleartext> Kid nods as he hands it back to her. Its glimmer has died down to that of a soft glow now.
<Waitpad><ClearText>

<Label 0x035C99>
"Yeah, let's get outta here. This place gives me the creeps..."
<Waitpad><Volume 05, 00><FadeOut 70, 0A><Volume 02, FF><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00F943>


Horror Scenario - Catacombs - Part 2


<Label 0x035CE4>
<Volume 05, FF><PlaySong 0B><ClearText> The catacombs seem to be empty. These desolate surroundings add no comfort to our situation.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Dammit, what do we do? That ghost is nowhere to be found," Kid says, examining the Frozen Flame. It isn't glowing one bit.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"We must move on. We do not want to attract any more attention to ourselves."
<Waitpad> We scamper back up the stairs even before Magil's finished speaking.
<Waitpad><Volume 05, 00><FadeOut 70, 0A><PlaySong 0F><Volume 05, FF><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00F943>

<Label 0x035D97>
<ClearText><If 0x14E4 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x035DB0><If 0x14E6 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x035DAC><Goto 0x0364C9>

<Label 0x035DAC>
<Goto 0x036389>

<Label 0x035DB0>
<Set 0x14E4 to 01><Set 0x14AE to 01><Call 0x000CC6><ClearText><PlaySong 0F><Volume 05, FF><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000A89><Delay 14> A slight breeze is our only welcome as we enter through the huge set of doors.
<Waitpad><cleartecxt><FadeIn 70, bA> We're met with silence as we look around this spacious, two-story hall.
<Waitpad><ClearText> On the far wall, a monstrous organ stands proudly, beckoning us with its pitch-black aura.
<Waitpad> A countless number of candles are lit all around us, offsetting our surroundings with a strange, flickering radiance.
<Waitpad>"What is this place? A cathedral or somethin'?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It seems so. The candles in this room have been placed in such a way to produce patterns of shadows, consistent with occult teachings," Magil says. Looking down, I can see he's on to something -- a number of strange, candlelit patterns dance around on the floor.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Do not stand there."
<waitpad> I instantly leap back, cold sweat running down my neck. My hand is on my knife... not that it'll do any good at this point...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Indeed, a most peculiar arrangement," Magil continues as I back against the wall. "This is indeed an unholy cathedral, ordained for occult sermons. The shadows indicate this spot is a focal point of some kind. This entire mansion is an instrument for defying order..."
<Waitpad><cleartext>"No, wait," he continues a moment later. "I was wrong. This room isn't the focal point. The shadows don't quite meet here in focus, as though..."
<delay 0a><Goto 0x035FEC>

<Label 0x035FEC>
<Choice 0x036033> *"Listen Magil, that's great, but what does it have to do with us?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x036108> *Look around with him.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x036033>
<ClearText>"This may be our only way out," Magil counters.
<waitpad><if 0x14E8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x036034>"Look, what are ya tryin' to get us caught up in!? We got the Flame already! We need to leave, now! So come on!"
<waitpad><goto 0x036035>

<label 0x036034>
"Look, what are ya tryin' to get us into!? We've already been seein' strange things around here, and this has nothin' to do with the Flame! We need to keep movin' here! Now let's go!"
<waitpad>

<label 0x036035>
"...Very well," Magil says, continuing to stare at the shadows as we leave.
<delay 15><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00BE9E>

<Label 0x036108>
<ClearText> Although scared, I start to look around the cathedral. Its dusty pillars and cold, clammy walls send a shiver down my spine.
<waitpad> Setting my sights on the organ, I walk over towards it.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><delay 10> ...Strange...
<waitpad> The keyboard is fake. There's no mistaking it, these keys aren't real -- they're bound together. All the whites are one solid piece of ivory, as well as the blacks.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Hey Magil, have you seen this yet? I think I found something."
<delay 0a><Goto 0x036195>

<Label 0x036195>
<Choice 0x0361FE> *Try pressing on the black keys. 
<Choice 0x0362A0> *Try pressing on the white keys. 
<Choice 0x0362D2> *Try pressing on both at once.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0361F0>
<FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00BE9E>

<Label 0x0361FE>
<ClearText><Call 0x0388BC> As soon as I push down on the keys, the organ's lid suddenly slams shut on my fingers!<PlaySound 22> <delay 0a>Damn this God-forsaken mansion!!
<Subtract 02 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x03623B><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x03623B>
<waitpad> Kid and Magil start pulling on the lid, but it's shut much too tightly!
<waitpad>"Get it off!!"
<waitpad><cleartext> After a moment, Kid pulls her knife out, using the blade to pry the lid up!
<waitpad> She's able to raise it just the bit, and I immediately remove my hands!
<waitpad> I stumble back in an adrenaline-filled daze. Rubbing my hands, I look them over. They don't seem to be broken, but they're awful sore...
<waitpad><cleartext>"Thanks, Kid."
<waitpad>"Don't mention it, mate."
<waitpad><cleartext> I re-approach the keyboard. What a surprise, now it opens without any trouble at all...
<delay 0a><Goto 0x036195>

<Label 0x0362A0>
<call 0x0388DC><delay 0a> Hmm... <delay 20>nothing seems to be happening.
<waitpad><cleartext> I take another look at the keyboard.
<delay 0a><Goto 0x036195>

<Label 0x0362D2>
 As soon as I press down on the keys, the wall just to the left of me begins to rumble.
<waitpad> A secret passage has just opened up!
<PlaySound 19><Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000C87><27, 05><Delay 12><FadeIn 70, 0A> Peering into it, I can see a stone stairway winding down...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"A secret floor directly beneath this one. Of course," Magil says to himself as we start down the narrow staircase.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><delay 10><Goto 0x03667E>

<Label 0x036389>
<FadeIn 70, 0A> The huge doors open without a sound.
<Call 0x000CC6><Delay 14><FadeOut 70, 0A><cleartext><Call 0x000A89><delay 05><FadeIn 70, 9A><Delay 18> We're greeted with nothing but the flickering luminescence of countless candles, dimly lighting this huge hall.
<Waitpad> The room, organ and all, is just how we left it, imprisoned in time...
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x14E5 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03649D>"Wanna head downstairs?" Kid asks, sighing.
<delay 0a><Choice 0x036A6D> *"Yeah, we might as well." I have a feeling about something... 
<Choice 0x00BE9E> *"Nah, no need." Nothing's changed down there either, probably.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03649D>
 Magil steps into the center of the room, resuming his inspection of the strange symbols on the ground.
<waitpad>"There's a presence here..."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x035FEC>

<Label 0x0364C9>
<FadeIn 70, 05><Volume 05, FF><PlaySound 0C><Call 0x000CC6><Delay 14><FadeOut 70, 01><Call 0x000A89><FadeIn 70, 0A><ClearText> We walk up to the organ, pressing the white and black keys together.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText> I retract my hands as soon as I press on the keys, wary of traps.
<Delay 0F><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000C87><27, 05><cleartext><Delay 12><FadeIn 70, 0A><PlaySound 19><Delay 0C><PlaySound 0C> After a moment or two, the wall begins to rumble, and the secret door opens.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The staircase winds down into darkness.
<24, 78, 14><24, 08, 01><24, F8, 01><24, 88, 01><Delay 08><Waitpad><ClearText>"C'mon, no sense in waitin' around all day," Kid says, heading down the cold, damp staircase.
<Waitpad> Magil and I follow her down, into the forgotten lair.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><Delay 0F><Goto 0x036B7B>

<Label 0x03667E>
<Set 0x14E5 to 01><ClearBG><ClearText> Once we reach the bottom, Magil casts a spell, allowing us to see into this dark, damp room.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000AD9><cleartext><FadeIn 68, 0A> The faint luminescence allows us to see somewhat. We're in a room not much taller than head height. However, what's interesting is that this room seems to have the exact same length and width as the room above us. Even the pillars are here, in the exact same places as they were above.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Could this be the original floor, covered up with what's there now? Why would someone do that? What would they need to cover up...?
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><27, 00>"Look over there," Magil whispers.
<Waitpad> In the direction he's pointing, we see a faint cloud-like mass...
<waitpad> No, my mistake. It's something sketched on the floor, emitting a dull, pulsating light...
<waitpad><ClearText><Delay 0C><27, 00><FadeOut F0, 0A><ClearText><Delay 03><Call 0x000B2B><FadeIn E4, 0A><Delay 35><FadeOut F0, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><27, 01><Call 0x000AD9><ClearText><Delay 05><FadeIn F0, 0A>"What is it?" Kid asks.
<Waitpad><If 0x14E7 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x036939>"...This must be the focal point for the energy above us."
<waitpad> I can tell Magil is affected somehow by it, just by being here. Something was bothering him upstairs, too, but it seems to be much more concentrated down here. Something is gnawing away within him, forcing him to pause every couple of seconds and re-steady himself.
<cleartext>"Sounds great, Magil," Kid says. "Whaddaya say we get outta here..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x0385C5><ClearText><ClearBG><PlaySound 15><Volume 30, FF><Call 0x000CD4><Delay 2D><FadeIn 70, 3C><24, 54, 50><Goto 0x036BDE>

<Label 0x036939>
"...I cannot be sure. Perhaps it is an inscription, placed here by those that constructed this place... I must think more on this matter."
<waitpad><cleartext><delay 20><volume 60, 40><playsound 1a> Suddenly, a dry wind blows past me. It didn't come from the stairwell, and there aren't any windows down here.
<Waitpad>"Let us come back when we know more," Magil says.
<Waitpad> I have no problem with that whatsoever.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><playsound 00><volume 00, ff> We head back up the stairs and out of the cathedral, back into the corridor within seconds. But still, that chilly feeling on the back of my neck hasn't abated...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x00BE9E>

<Label 0x036A6D>
<27, 00><FadeOut F0, 0A><ClearText><Delay 0C><Call 0x000B2B><FadeIn E6, 0A><Delay 35><FadeOut F0, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><27, 01><Call 0x000AD9><ClearText><Delay 05><FadeIn F0, 0A> Just as before, the strange markings shine with a dull, somber light in the center of this dreary, forgotten room.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"These designs here indicate this is to be used for a kind of resurrection ceremony. I am not sure what these symbols mean here, though..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid and I glance at each other, wondering how much longer we'll have to stay down here before Magil's ready to go.
<Waitpad>"There must be an explanation for this, somewhere in this mansion. Let us search elsewhere."
<waitpad> We scamper back up the stairs and out of the cathedral.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x00BE9E>

<Label 0x036B7B>
<PlaySound 0C><ClearText><Delay 05><27, 00><FadeOut F0, 0A><ClearText><Delay 17><Call 0x000B2B><FadeIn 70, 50><Delay 35><FadeOut F0, 5A><ClearBG><ClearText><27, 01><PlaySound 15><Call 0x000CD4><ClearText><Delay 05><FadeIn F0, 3C><Delay 03><24, 54, 50><Delay 0F><24, D4, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><Goto 0x036BDE><ClearText>

<Label 0x036BDE>
 Suddenly, as if awakened by our being here...
<24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><Waitpad> The magic seal grows stronger and stronger, giving off a terrifying shaking tremor as its radiance intensifies, filling the room with its aura!
<24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><Delay 21><Waitpad><24, D8, 18><ClearText> Despite our situation, I can't help but be caught up in the spectacle of it all...
<24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><Waitpad><cleartext><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 18><24, 58, 18><24, D8, 05> However, at its core...
<waitpad> <textspeed 08>...<call 0x007474><delay 10>He's here.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000CDF><PlaySound 0F><Delay 0F><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 1C><Delay 02><Call 0x0388DC><PlaySound 1C><Delay 0C><PlaySong 08><PlaySound 15><Delay 17><24, 58, 78><ClearText>"...<24, D8, 3C>Lynx..."
<Waitpad> Kid's tone is as though she's speaking the name of death itself.
<24, 58, 3C><Waitpad><24, D8, 3C><ClearText> This man... no... <24, 58, 3C>this thing... Viper Manor's deadly master... <24, D8, 78>the originator of all this torment...
<Waitpad><ClearText>".....Lynx!!"
<24, 18, 78><24, 78, 0A><24, 08, 01><24, 98, 02><24, F8, 02><Delay 23><Waitpad> Kid calls out to Lynx, her eyes as ravenous as a hawk's as she grips her knife tight!
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 58, 3C> Lynx's image wavers silently in the air, apparently undisturbed.
<Waitpad><24, D8, 3C> Kid, on the other hand, sets aside her peace of mind, calling forth the fury of maddening vengeance!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Lynx starts to speaks out, but ironicaly, in a meek and comforting tone.
<24, D8, 3C><Waitpad>"The Frozen Flame... please, return it here, young girl..."
<waitpad>"Yeah, right! <24, 58, 3C>Ya think I'm gonna listen to a bastard like you!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> At that moment, Kid reaches in her pocket. Moments later, she pulls out the glowing red stone.
<waitpad><24, D8, 3C> Shimmering red light streaks out between her fingers, as she holds the Frozen Flame high above her.
<waitpad>"Yes," Lynx continues. "It is my spirit... please, you must help me."
<Delay 0C><Call 0x0388BC><Waitpad><ClearText>"...Your spirit?" Kid asks.
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 58, 3C> Lord Lynx's image pleads with Kid in a pitiful manner.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Please, hear me... I, too, was once on a quest. <24, D8, 3C>Struck down by the blade of an evil assassin, I failed to reach my goal. Through the power of secret ancient arts, I was barely able to secure my spirit within the Frozen Flame, but just barely... In this meager remaining existence, I am helpless, bound to this magic seal before you. Please, return the Flame to me... I am helpless without it..."
<24, 58, 3C><Waitpad><ClearText> <24, D8, 3C>"Pity," Kid says. "...I'm sure you know all about pity. Did ya ever show any of those people you maimed any pity?"
<waitpad> Kid's eyes return to their hard stare. "You expect us to believe you? You, the bastard who tortured countless people!? <24, 58, 3C>Death isn't good enough for the likes of you!" she shouts, squeezing the Flame tighter and tighter!
<Waitpad>"Please! Pity me," the faint apparition pleads.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 3C><Call 0x000AD9><ClearBG><Delay 0F>


<FadeIn 70, 05>                               <textspeed 04>"Kid!"
                         "Wait... Please!!"<call 0x007474>
<PlaySound 00><Volume 05, 00><Call 0x0388AF><Delay 19><FadeOut 70, 3C><delay 10><fadeout 90, 40><cleartext><delay 10><PlaySong 00><fadein 90, 00> Kid suddenly stops dead in her tracks, hearing that voice. It wasn't Lynx's voice...
<Volume 02, FF><Waitpad>"Aaaahhhh! You...! No...!!" Lynx shouts out!
<waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 0D><Volume 05, 00> Lynx's apparition bends and contorts, blurring like a sweltering heat, until...
<Waitpad><Call 0x000BC3><FadeIn 70, 78><Delay 1E> ...Another figure starts to overlap his image! It's that girl...
<waitpad> She's fighting to come through, wrestling with Lynx...
<Call 0x000BCE><Waitpad><ClearText>"Please... you must not trust him. Do not lend any more help to his revival," the girl says, painfully twisting and turning within the seal.
<waitpad><cleartext>"Revival? Of course! I understand the seal's meaning now!" Magil adds. "This seal, it's for a seance... an anti-spirit seance. By consuming others' spirits, Lynx breaks the seal by which he is kept from returning to the physical world, bit by bit."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Consuming others' spirits... it all makes sense now," Magil says. "The Flame, put right out in the open, was meant for us to take. It all points to this being one huge trap."
<waitpad><cleartext>"There must have been others like us... thieves who had come looking for the Flame," Magil continues. "They took it, but then, found themselves unable to escape."
<waitpad><if 0x14E7 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x080808> Yeah... Lynx must have pounced on them through the Flame when they least expected it, just like what happened to Kid in Lynx's room. Lynx just didn't count on someone like Magil who was able to counter his evil magic.
<waitpad><goto 0x080809>

<label 0x080808>
"Yes, Lynx pounces on travellers spirits through the Frozen Flame," the girl adds. "He has done it to countless others before you."
<waitpad>

<label 0x080809>
<cleartext> There must be no one left alive in this entire mansion... they've all been consumed by Lynx. All those corpses we saw... how many have died, never to have gotten this far?
<waitpad><ClearText>"Shea..."
<waitpad> Beside me, I hear Kid say that name again...
<Waitpad><PlaySong 04><Volume 40, FF>"Shea... it's you... it's you!"
<waitpad> ...Kid...
<Waitpad><ClearText> I've never heard Kid's voice take on such a soft tone. No, I wouldn't call it soft -- it's more of the kind of tone a child clings to her mother with.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Now I remember... one of the sisters of the temple where Kid was raised was named Shea, if I'm not mistaken...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Delay 17>"Shea...! It's me, Kid...!"
<Waitpad>"Yes, my Kid... my precious little Kid. What a fantastic woman you have grown into..."
<delay 10><playsong 00><PlaySound 0F>"Grrrrrr... rrraaaaaahhhhhh!! Get out of my mind...!!" Lynx's shouts out from inside the seal! He forces his face through Shea's belly, as they begin to painfully wrestle with each other once again!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000BCE><playsong 04><volume a0, ff>"Kid," Shea continues, painfully overcoming Lynx, "thank you for remembering me... however, I cannot return with you. Please, hear me... the Frozen Flame must be destroyed. It is through this that Lynx is able to slowly resurrect himself... Please, destroy it, and save yourselves... I will restrain Lynx in the meantime."
<Waitpad>"But... No! You can't! Come back... come back with me!"
<Waitpad>"Kid... just as headstrong as ever," Shea says with a wide smile across her face.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"I must fall, with Lynx... I am bound to this fate. You see, I am burdened with this crime -- my father's blood runs just as thickly through my veins."
<Waitpad> ...Father...?
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Sensing his own impending death, Lynx made preparations for a revival before he was slain," Shea says painfully, barely able to restrain Lynx's mortal hatred.
<Waitpad>"This anti-spirit seance he prepared was designed to feed off others' spirits, in exchange for adding to his own rejuvenation."
<waitpad><cleartext> Shea's eyes take on a somber glow. "To invoke the seance, he needed a blood relative to consume first. Yes, Kid... I was born unto him illegitimately... I am his daughter."
<waitpad> Kid's face turns to that of utter shock, hearing this.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The moment that Dragoon slew Lynx, I felt my spirit being sucked into this spot, consumed within his seance. But, he did not stop there... all my people met the same fate. Not even this was enough, however... He continues to greedily lure unsuspecting visitors of Viper Manor to this very day, hoping to consume more and more spirits so that he may one day cross back over."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"This insidious crime... it must be stopped," she concludes.
<Waitpad> Mortified, Kid is unable to say a word.
<Waitpad>"Thank you for hearing me. The truth is known, finally. Now please, save yourself, my precious... little... Kid..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Delay 0F><Call 0x000BCE><Delay 26> Kids takes a deep breath, staring at the shiny jewel she's been seeking for so long.
<waitpad>"I choose... I choose to end it," she says solemnly.
<waitpad><cleartext><volume f0, 00>"Place it on the ground before you," says Magil. Kid does so, and not long after, Magil's thick voice begins to echo out an incantation.
<Waitpad> Looking over at him, an arc of magic streaks out from his fingertips towards the Flame! The scarlet jewel takes on a strange, dark color, as it begins to hum louder and louder...
<Waitpad><cleartext> Shea smiles upon seeing this.
<waitpad><Call 0x000BCE>"Thank you... thank you for setting me free...
<waitpad>"I've waited a century for this moment, to put an end to Lynx," Magil says, smiling broadly. "And now... it is finished."
<Waitpad><cleartext> As the Flame continues to glow darker and darker with its new hollow, grey aura, Magil shouts "Serge, take cover, and hold Kid to you! The Flame is losing stability!!"
<Delay 0D><PlaySong 00><volume 02, ff><PlaySound 1F><Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 3C><Delay 0F> .....................
<Delay 0F> ..................
<Delay 0F> ............
<Delay 0F><Volume 80, 00> ......
<Delay 0F> ...
<Delay 2E><FadeOut 90, 3C><ClearBG><ClearText><textspeed 04>


I can't remember what happened next very clearly...
<FadeIn 90, 3C><Delay 1E><PlaySong 02><Volume 10, FF><Delay 35><fadeout 90, 40>
<ClearText><fadein 90, 00><delay 20> The magic seal's radiance...
<Delay 0F> Lynx's contorted screams...
<Delay 0F> Magil invoking his magic...
<Delay 0F> ...Shea's comforting smile.
<Delay 2E><ClearText><Delay 0C><fadeout 90, 00>



 And...<fadein 90, 40>
<Delay 20><fadeout, 90, 40><ClearText><delay 10>




 ...a tear rolling down Kid's cheek.<fadein 90, 40><call 0x007474>
<Delay 35><Volume 40, 00><FadeOut F0, 78><ClearText><Call 0x000AD9><cleartext><delay 10><FadeIn F0, 78><24, 44, 78><PlaySong 01><Volume 60, FF><Delay 35> When I come to, I find that I'm lying on the ground, holding Kid tightly to me, rubbing the soot out of my eyes. How long have I been laying here?
<Waitpad> Our clothes have been tattered, and our bodies have sustained more than their fair share of bruises. But... we're all right.
<Waitpad><ClearText> It looks like Magil was thrown over to the opposite side of the room. He lays there silently, exhausted of all energy, fast asleep.
<Waitpad> I pick up my head to glance over to where the Flame was...
<waitpad> ...It's gone.
<waitpad> There's no trace of Shea or Lynx either...
<Waitpad><ClearText> I sleep... and sleep... and sleep.
<waitpad> The moon rises for a second time, and I finally feel like I have the strength to get up. I nudge Kid, who's still groggy, as I sit up on the cold stone floor.
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, C4, 78><FadeOut 70, 78><Delay 31>"All this... and what do we have to show for it... nothing," I think to myself, remorsefully. But then, I glance at Kid, and realize that's not entirely true.
<waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x0009B4><Call 0x0009C4><FadeIn 70, 1E>
<ClearText><textspeed 04> Walking through the forest wilderness, I look back over my shoulder to the towering mansion one last time.
<Waitpad> Finally, Viper Manor is at peace.
<waitpad><FadeOut f0, 40><ClearText><Call 0x000C8D><fadein 90, 00><Delay 1E> Walking beside me, Kid gulps painfully as she looks down at her hand, tracing the outline of where she once grasped the legendary Frozen Flame so tightly.
<waitpad><delay 10> Closing her hand, she moves on.
<Set 0x1497 to 01><Delay 1E><Volume 40, 00><FadeOut F0, 78><Delay 26><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00048C>

<Label 0x037EC4>
<ClearText><If 0x14EB doesn't equal 01 goto 0x037ED1><Goto 0x0380DE>

<Label 0x037ED1>
<Set 0x14C3 to 01><Set 0x14EB to 01><volume 30, 50> This is a leisurely room, decorated to a fine taste.
<Waitpad> An antique cupboard, polished wooden toy animals, and a shiny glass vase add to its charm.
<Waitpad> However, the flower in the vase has long since wilted, and it's been long since the furniture was dusted last. There are traces of life here, but not recent ones.
<Waitpad> A broken window lies hidden behind this elegant interior. Wind blows in through the small crack.
<PlaySound 1A><volume 60, 20><Call 0x000C74><Waitpad><ClearText>"There doesn't seem to be anything useful here... let's go."<Volume f0, 00>
<Waitpad>"Hang on a sec," Kid responds, kicking open a chest.
<Waitpad> I come to her side, peering in with her.
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySong 04><Volume 40, FF> Inside, a pale blue robe is found.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"...Shea..." Kid quietly says.
<waitpad> That name... Shea...
<waitpad> Kid takes notice of my looking at her and quickly composes herself.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Yer right, there's nuthin' here. C'mon."
<Waitpad> Before I have time to ask, Kid leads the way out.
<Waitpad><Volume 30, 00><Delay 08><PlaySong 0F><FadeOut 70, 0A><Volume 05, FF><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00F171>

<Label 0x0380DE>
<Set 0x14EB to 01> Returning to this run-down room, we find nothing has changed since our last visit.
<Waitpad>"Come, there are other places we have yet to check." Magil says suddenly.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 3A><delay 20><ClearBG><PlaySound 00><ClearText><Goto 0x00F171>

<Label 0x03812D>
<Set 0x14B7 to 01> I hear a few splashes here and there.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0F> Kid turns around, facing me. She's stiff as a pole, bloodstained.
<24, 18, 78><Delay 1E><Waitpad><ClearText>"What the...!?"
<Waitpad> I rush over to Kid in a flash...
<waitpad><PlaySound 07>"Aaaahhhh!"
<waitpad><ClearText><Volume 05, 00><PlaySong 06> The fish are ravenously leaping out of the water, snapping at our flesh as they spit up thick blood on us!
<waitpad><Volume 30, FF> Amidst all this, the fountain has started to spew volumes of bloodstained water!
<waitpad> I back away slowly, too terrified to think.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The fish... the fish..." Kid says over and over, apparently in shock as she tries to clean the gorges of blood off her hands and arms. But the fish keep on coming, spitting more and more blood up on us...
<Waitpad><cleartext> However, what I see next makes my stomach turn.
<Waitpad> Masses of bones and half-eaten body parts bubble up to the surface of the pond. Heads, arms, fingers, feet...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"These fish are cursed," Magil shouts over the commotion. "They are being influenced by something..."
<Waitpad> I take a few more steps back, eager to get away from all this.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"I see now," Magil adds. "These fish are something of an experiment, it seems. Their minds have been unnaturally twisted and broken. The fear of death is thick in the air, even for these cannibals..."
<waitpad><cleartext> He's right... The fish don't seem to be hungry for us -- they're just madly snapping at anything that moves, even themselves. Not even the body parts are fully eaten...
<Waitpad> I can barely stomach the sight, as the body parts begin to spill over onto the tile floor...
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 98, 78><Volume b0, 00>"Come on, hurry," I say to Kid, taking her arm. We carefully make our way around the fountain, avoiding it as much as we can by hugging the walls.
<delay 08><PlaySong 0F><Volume 10, FF><Choice 0x00F266> *Continue onwards. 
<Choice 0x00F943> *Head back to the stairs.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03852C>
"Whatcha lookin at, Serge? Aw, it's prolly just another one of Lynx's sick hobbies, collectin' weird stuff like this..."
<waitpad>"Yeah, but..."
<waitpad>"C'mon, this is borin'. I wanna get that Flame!"
<waitpad> I reluctantly agree with her, giving a forced laugh. Yeah, I could say more, but... hmph.
<Waitpad><volume 40, 00><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><ClearText><delay 10><Playsong 00><Goto 0x00BFB1>

<Label 0x0385C5>
 Kid's acting strange...
<waitpad> It's that girl... I know it has something to do with that girl. But what could it all mean?
<waitpad> I want to ask Kid, but now's not the right time.
<waitpad> Aw, why not.
<waitpad>"Hey, about that robe..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 20, 00><PlaySong 00>"It is the official congregational robe of the Temple of Four Spirits," Magil instantly says. It must have been on his mind as well...
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 5A><Delay 17>"Isn't that where you were raised, Kid?"
<waitpad>"...Yeah, they took us in... all us orphans."
<waitpad> It seems to be a hard subject for her... I can understand why. She always seems so moved by this...
<waitpad><cleartext> While Kid is lost in thought, Magil takes me aside and explains the rest to me, alone...
<Waitpad><ClearText><ClearBG><26, 02><0A, 02><04, 2E, 01><26, 51><25, 01><FadeIn 6a, B4><PlaySong 02><Volume 40, FF><Delay 30> 
<cleartext>"Kid, still a child at the time, was raised by the holy sisters in their temple.
<waitpad> However, one day, one of the sisters was summoned to Lynx's mansion. Kid waited day after day, but the sister did not return.
<waitpad> After some time had passed, Kid secretly sneaked out of the temple, determined to find out what had happened.
<waitpad><cleartext> She made it almost all the way to Viper Manor, alone and unprepared. She was still just a child, after all.
<waitpad> But then, she heard an explosion, back in the direction of her hometown. She looked back and saw fires everywhere, engulfing the only home she ever knew.
<waitpad> Someone had set fire to her entire village, including the temple.
<waitpad><cleartext> Forgetting the mansion for the time being, she ran back to town, but Kid was the only survivor.
<waitpad><cleartext> Back then, I was a regular visitor of the temple. One day, I came to where the town had been, and came across this sight. All the village had burnt to the ground, and there appeared to be no survivors. But, following my intuition, I searched and searched.
<waitpad><cleartext> And there, among all the cinders and bodies, crouched a tiny, trembling little girl.
<waitpad> After I took Kid under my wing, it was an entire year before she spoke again. Ever since then, I haven't seen her cry a single time..."
<Delay 19><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 78><Volume 40, 00><Delay 23><PlaySong 00><Delay 10><Return>

<Label 0x0388AF>
<24, 7F, 02><24, 0F, 01><24, FF, 02><24, 8F, 01><Return>

<Label 0x0388BC>
<24, 1F, 02><24, 7F, 02><24, 0F, 01><24, 9F, 02><24, FF, 02><Return>

<Label 0x0388CC>
<24, 4F, 02><24, 7F, 02><24, 0F, 01><24, CF, 02><24, FF, 02><Return>

<Label 0x0388DC>
<24, 3F, 02><24, 7F, 02><24, 0F, 01><24, BF, 02><24, FF, 02><Return>

<Label 0x058008>
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<choice 0x058201> <81, 45, 85, 6C><85, 8E, 85, 91><85, 84, 85, 4D><85, 4D, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058201>
<volume 60, 00><fadeout f0, 1c><textspeed 00><cleartext> <85, 6C, 85, 74><85, 72, 85, 68><85, 62, 81, 40><85, 73, 85, 64><85, 72, 85, 73><playsong 00>
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<choice 0x05810E> <81, 45, 85, 4F><85, 64, 81, 40><85, 65, 85, 88><85, 8D, 85, 80, 85, 8B><81, 40><85, 62, 85, 8E><85, 8D, 85, 85><85, 91, 85, 8E><85, 8D, 85, 93><85, 80, 85, 93><85, 88, 85, 8E, 85, 8D>
<choice 0x05810F> <81, 45, 85, 4F><85, 65, 81, 40><85, 72, 85, 8D><85, 84, 85, 80, 85, 8A><85, 88><85, 8D, 85, 86><81, 40><85, 60><85, 91, 85, 8E><85, 94, 85, 8D, 85, 83>
<choice 0x058110> <81, 45, 85, 50><85, 4F, 81, 40><85, 71, 85, 88><85, 95, 85, 84, 85, 91><85, 85><85, 8B, 85, 8E><85, 96, 81, 40><85, 47, 85, 60><85, 8C, 85, 81><85, 88, 85, 84><85, 8D, 85, 93, 85, 48>
<choice 0x058202> <81, 45, 85, 6C><85, 8E, 85, 91><85, 84, 85, 4D><85, 4D, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058202>
<volume 60, 00><fadeout f0, 1c><textspeed 00><cleartext> <85, 6C, 85, 74><85, 72, 85, 68><85, 62, 81, 40><85, 73, 85, 64><85, 72, 85, 73><playsong 00>
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<choice 0x058112> <81, 45, 85, 50><85, 51, 81, 40><85, 72, 85, 93><85, 91, 85, 80, 85, 8D><85, 86, 85, 84><81, 40><85, 6F, 85, 91><85, 84, 85, 92, 85, 84><85, 8D, 85, 93, 85, 88><85, 8C, 85, 84><85, 8D, 85, 93>
<choice 0x058113> <81, 45, 85, 50><85, 52, 81, 40><85, 65, 85, 80, 85, 82><85, 88, 85, 8D, 85, 86>
<choice 0x058114> <81, 45, 85, 50><85, 53, 81, 40><85, 64, 85, 8F><85, 88, 85, 8B, 85, 8E><85, 86, 85, 94><85, 84>
<choice 0x058115> <81, 45, 85, 50><85, 54, 81, 40><85, 64, 85, 8D><85, 83, 85, 88, 85, 8D><85, 86>
<choice 0x058116> <81, 45, 85, 50><85, 55, 81, 40><85, 68, 85, 8D><85, 83, 85, 94, 85, 92><85, 93, 85, 91><85, 88, 85, 80, 85, 8B><81, 40><85, 47, 85, 60><85, 8C, 85, 81, 85, 88><85, 84, 85, 8D><85, 93, 85, 48>
<choice 0x058117> <81, 45, 85, 50><85, 56, 81, 40><85, 76, 85, 87><85, 88, 85, 91, 85, 8B><85, 96, 85, 88><85, 8D, 85, 83, 81, 40><85, 47, 85, 60, 85, 8C><85, 81, 85, 88, 85, 84><85, 8D, 85, 93, 85, 48>
<choice 0x058008> <81, 45, 85, 6C><85, 8E, 85, 91><85, 84, 85, 4D><85, 4D, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058101>
<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><volume 60, ff>
 <85, 6F, 85, 6B, 85, 60><85, 78, 85, 68, 85, 6D><85, 66, 81, 40><85, 4F, 85, 50, 85, 59><81, 40><85, 72, 85, 94><85, 8C, 85, 8C, 85, 84><85, 91, 81, 40><85, 63, 85, 80><85, 98>
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<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 01><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058102>
<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><volume 60, ff>
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<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 02><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058103>
<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><clearbg><volume 60, ff>
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<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 03><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058104>
<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><volume 60, ff>
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<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 04><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058105>
<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><volume 60, ff>
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<choice 0x058008> <81, 45, 85, 71><85, 84, 85, 93><85, 94, 85, 91><85, 8D, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 8E, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 91, 85, 80><85, 82, 85, 8A, 81, 40><85, 8B, 85, 88, 85, 92><85, 93, 85, 88, 85, 8D><85, 86, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
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<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x031337>
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<choice 0x058201> <81, 45, 85, 71><85, 84, 85, 93><85, 94, 85, 91><85, 8D, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 8E, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 91, 85, 80><85, 82, 85, 8A, 81, 40><85, 8B, 85, 88, 85, 92><85, 93, 85, 88, 85, 8D><85, 86, 85, 4D>
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<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
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<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
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<Label 0x05810F>
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<Label 0x058110>
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<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
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<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 11><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058112>
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<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 12><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058113>
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<choice 0x058202> <81, 45, 85, 71><85, 84, 85, 93><85, 94, 85, 91><85, 8D, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 8E, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 91, 85, 80><85, 82, 85, 8A, 81, 40><85, 8B, 85, 88, 85, 92><85, 93, 85, 88, 85, 8D><85, 86, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 13><Start Clock>

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<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><volume 60, ff>
 <85, 6F, 85, 6B, 85, 60><85, 78, 85, 68, 85, 6D><85, 66, 81, 40><85, 50, 85, 53, 85, 59><81, 40><85, 64, 85, 8F><85, 88, 85, 8B, 85, 8E><85, 86, 85, 94><85, 84>
 <85, 47, 85, 82><85, 48, 81, 40><85, 72, 85, 90><85, 94, 85, 80><85, 91, 85, 84><85, 92, 85, 8E><85, 85, 85, 93><81, 40><85, 50, 85, 58, 85, 58><85, 55, 85, 4D, 81, 40><85, 62, 85, 8E, 85, 8C><85, 8F, 85, 8E, 85, 92><85, 84, 85, 83, 81, 40><85, 81, 85, 98, 81, 40><85, 78, 85, 80, 85, 92><85, 94, 85, 8D, 85, 8E><85, 91, 85, 88, 81, 40><85, 6C, 85, 88, 85, 93><85, 92, 85, 94, 85, 83><85, 80, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058202> <81, 45, 85, 71><85, 84, 85, 93><85, 94, 85, 91><85, 8D, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 8E, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 91, 85, 80><85, 82, 85, 8A, 81, 40><85, 8B, 85, 88, 85, 92><85, 93, 85, 88, 85, 8D><85, 86, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 14><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058115>
<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><volume 60, ff>
 <85, 6F, 85, 6B, 85, 60><85, 78, 85, 68, 85, 6D><85, 66, 81, 40><85, 50, 85, 54, 85, 59><81, 40><85, 64, 85, 8D><85, 83, 85, 88, 85, 8D><85, 86>
 <85, 47, 85, 82><85, 48, 81, 40><85, 72, 85, 90><85, 94, 85, 80><85, 91, 85, 84><85, 92, 85, 8E><85, 85, 85, 93><81, 40><85, 50, 85, 58, 85, 58><85, 55, 85, 4D, 81, 40><85, 62, 85, 8E, 85, 8C><85, 8F, 85, 8E, 85, 92><85, 84, 85, 83, 81, 40><85, 81, 85, 98, 81, 40><85, 78, 85, 80, 85, 92><85, 94, 85, 8D, 85, 8E><85, 91, 85, 88, 81, 40><85, 6C, 85, 88, 85, 93><85, 92, 85, 94, 85, 83><85, 80, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058202> <81, 45, 85, 71><85, 84, 85, 93><85, 94, 85, 91><85, 8D, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 8E, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 91, 85, 80><85, 82, 85, 8A, 81, 40><85, 8B, 85, 88, 85, 92><85, 93, 85, 88, 85, 8D><85, 86, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 15><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058116>
<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><volume 60, ff>
 <85, 6F, 85, 6B, 85, 60><85, 78, 85, 68, 85, 6D><85, 66, 81, 40><85, 50, 85, 55, 85, 59><81, 40><85, 68, 85, 8D><85, 83, 85, 94, 85, 92><85, 93, 85, 91><85, 88, 85, 80, 85, 8B><81, 40><85, 47, 85, 60><85, 8C, 85, 81, 85, 88><85, 84, 85, 8D><85, 93, 85, 48>
 <85, 47, 85, 82, 85, 48><81, 40><85, 72, 85, 90, 85, 94><85, 80, 85, 91, 85, 84><85, 92, 85, 8E, 85, 85><85, 93, 81, 40><85, 50, 85, 58, 85, 58><85, 55, 85, 4D, 81, 40><85, 60, 85, 91, 85, 91><85, 80, 85, 8D, 85, 86><85, 84, 85, 83, 81, 40><85, 81, 85, 98, 81, 40><85, 78, 85, 80, 85, 92><85, 94, 85, 8D, 85, 8E><85, 91, 85, 88, 81, 40><85, 6C, 85, 88, 85, 93><85, 92, 85, 94, 85, 83><85, 80, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058202> <81, 45, 85, 71><85, 84, 85, 93><85, 94, 85, 91><85, 8D, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 8E, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 91, 85, 80><85, 82, 85, 8A, 81, 40><85, 8B, 85, 88, 85, 92><85, 93, 85, 88, 85, 8D><85, 86, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 16><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058117>
<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><volume 60, ff>
 <85, 6F, 85, 6B, 85, 60><85, 78, 85, 68, 85, 6D><85, 66, 81, 40><85, 50, 85, 56, 85, 59><81, 40><85, 76, 85, 87><85, 88, 85, 91, 85, 8B><85, 96, 85, 88><85, 8D, 85, 83, 81, 40><85, 47, 85, 60, 85, 8C><85, 81, 85, 88, 85, 84><85, 8D, 85, 93, 85, 48>
 <85, 47, 85, 82, 85, 48><81, 40><85, 72, 85, 90, 85, 94><85, 80, 85, 91, 85, 84><85, 92, 85, 8E, 85, 85><85, 93, 81, 40><85, 50, 85, 58, 85, 58><85, 55, 85, 4D, 81, 40><85, 60, 85, 91, 85, 91><85, 80, 85, 8D, 85, 86><85, 84, 85, 83, 81, 40><85, 81, 85, 98, 81, 40><85, 78, 85, 80, 85, 92><85, 94, 85, 8D, 85, 8E><85, 91, 85, 88, 81, 40><85, 6C, 85, 88, 85, 93><85, 92, 85, 94, 85, 83><85, 80, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058202> <81, 45, 85, 71><85, 84, 85, 93><85, 94, 85, 91><85, 8D, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 8E, 81, 40><85, 93, 85, 91, 85, 80><85, 82, 85, 8A, 81, 40><85, 8B, 85, 88, 85, 92><85, 93, 85, 88, 85, 8D><85, 86, 85, 4D>
<choice 0x058909> <81, 45, 85, 64><85, 97, 85, 88><85, 93, 85, 4D>
<fadein 90, 3c><delay 10><playsong 17><Start Clock>

<Label 0x058909>
<fadeout f0, 1c><cleartext><delay 10><volume 60, ff><call 0x007474><playsong 08><fadein f0, 60><goto 0x058001>

<Label 0x0388EC>
<ClearText><ClearBG><FadeIn 70, 00><24, 8F, 00><Set 0x1524 to 00><Set 0x1525 to 00><Set 0x1526 to 00><Goto 0x038904>

<Label 0x038904>
<ClearText><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 0F>"What!? There's nothin' here!"
<waitpad> Just as Kid says, it's pretty empty in here. Simple stucco walls run up this tiny, square room. No furnishings, no furniture... not even a single window.
<waitpad> It could be a holding cell of some kind... or maybe a storeroom. But if that's the case, then where's the storage?
<Waitpad><If 0x1493 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0389B3><If 0x149B doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0389B3><Set 0x149B to 01><Set 0x14A1 to 01><Goto 0x038AAC>

<Label 0x0389B3>
<Goto 0x0389B7>

<Label 0x0389B7>
<ClearText>"Why would anybody go through all this trouble to keep this place hidden? There's nothin' here!"
<Waitpad>"It would seem that way," Magil says.
<Waitpad>"There doesn't even seem to be any traps in here."
<Waitpad>"Leave it to a fool like Lynx to build have a room as stupid as this," Kid says on her way out. We follow after her not much later.
<Waitpad><Volume 10, 00><Goto 0x02005C>

<Label 0x038AAC>
<ClearText> The only thing worth mentioning is a large stone slab in the center of the room.
<Waitpad>"What do ya suppose this thing is? A bed or somethin'?"
<delay 0a><choice 0x038B3B> *Go over by Kid. 
<Choice 0x038ED8> *See what Magil has to say. 
<Choice 0x038F36> *Search on my own.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x038B3B>
<ClearText>"What is it, Kid?" I ask, seeing her starting to inspect the slab closer and closer.
<Waitpad> As I walk over to where she is, I see there's a small crystal embedded in the middle of the slab.
<Waitpad> We climb up on the slab in order to get a better look at it.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey, look... there's somethin' written on it."
<waitpad> She's right -- faint words seem to be etched into the surface of the slab. They're in a language I don't think I've ever seen before, though.
<delay 0a><choice 0x038C0C> *Investigate the stone slab a little more. 
<Choice 0x038D0B> *Investigate the crystal a little more. 
<Choice 0x038DE2> *Investigate Kid a little more.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x038C0C>
<ClearText>"Whaddaya think it says?" Kid asks. "Maybe Magil knows. Hey, Magil, c'mere!"
<Waitpad>"Hmm... I have never seen this language before, Kid. However, I do know that the glow that this crystal is emitting is unnatural. It is most likely enchanted..."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x038E72>

<Label 0x038D0B>
<ClearText> It's a white, spherical, polished crystal. Only the upper half of it visible. Its lower half is embedded into the slab.
<Waitpad>"It's beautiful," Kid says, eyes as wide as melons.
<Waitpad>"It is enchanted," Magil suddenly says from behind us.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x038E72>

<Label 0x038DE2>
<ClearText>"<textspeed 06>Kid..."<call 0x007474>
<Waitpad>"Huh...? What the!? Get yer eyes off me, ya pervert!"
<Waitpad> Kid explodes with a left hook to my jaw.
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x038E4D><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x038E4D>
"Oww...."
<delay 0a><choice 0x038C0C> *Investigate the stone slab. 
<Choice 0x038D0B> *Investigate the crystal.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x038E72>
<ClearText>"Enchanted, huh? Well then it's gotta be valuable!" she says, reaching out for the shimmering gem.
<Waitpad> But as soon as she touches it, the crystal begins to shine brighter and brighter.
<Delay 0A><24, 7F, 08><24, FF, 08><Delay 04> Shortly after, everything before my eyes turns bright white!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x039ACA>

<Label 0x038ED8>
<ClearText> I turn to talk to Magil, but he's already got his eyes closed, probably concentrating on some sort of search spell.
<delay 0a><choice 0x038B3B> *Go over to where Kid is. 
<Choice 0x038F36> *Search on my own.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x038F36>
<ClearText> I walk around, inspecting all four corners of the room, but nothing interesting turns up.
<Waitpad> I notice Kid over in the middle of the room, checking out a stone slab. Magil's busy casting some sort of search spell.
<delay 0a><choice 0x038B3B> *Go over to where Kid is. 
<Choice 0x038FB0> *Give up and leave.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x038FB0>
<ClearText> Suddenly<TextSpeed 14>...<call 0x007474>
<Waitpad><24, 7F, 08><24, FF, 08><Delay 04> Something begins to shine in the middle of the room.
<waitpad>"Huh? What? I didn't touch it! I didn't do anyth..." but before she can finish, Kid disappears in a flash!
<Waitpad>"What the heck!?" I say, glancing at Magil.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Magil says nothing as he walks over to the stone slab in the center of the room, staring at it intently.
<Waitpad>"Magil, what's going on..."
<waitpad>"She was transported."
<Waitpad>"Transported!?"
<waitpad>"Yes. Take a look here. This crystal is enchanted. Touch it, and you will be transported as well."
<waitpad>"Where to?"
<waitpad> Magil simply blinks at me.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I approach the stone slab, and just as Magil said, a tiny white crystal is embedded in its center.
<waitpad> What's more, there's some kind of writing written on the slab.
<waitpad>"What does this stuff say?"
<waitpad>"It's in a language I have never seen before," he says.
<waitpad><cleartext>"I will go to save Kid. Wait here."
<waitpad> Saying this, Magil gets on the stone slab and holds his hand aloft above the crystal.
<Waitpad>"Wait here...?"
<waitpad> But before I can even argue, Magil touches the crystal! It shines for a second or two, and then...
<Delay 0F><24, 7F, 08><24, FF, 08><Delay 04><Waitpad><ClearText> ...He's gone.
<waitpad> What am I supposed to do now...
<delay 0a><choice 0x039249> *Follow after them. 
<Choice 0x0392F3> *Wait here. 
<Choice 0x03937E> *Leave this room, continuing to search for the Frozen Flame. 
<Choice 0x03937E> *Leave this room and escape Viper Manor.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x039249>
<ClearText> I swallow my fear down as I get up onto the slab. I wonder what it feels like to be transported...
<waitpad> After a moment, I reach out my hand, and slowly lower it onto the crystal.
<Waitpad> ...What!? Nothing's happening!
<Waitpad> I touch it again and again, but nothing happens! What am I going to do now!?
<Waitpad> I've got nothing to do but wait here, alone...
<Waitpad><ClearText> ...<delay 20>Alone... all alone...
<waitpad> I wonder if they're ever coming back...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0395F3>

<Label 0x0392F3>
<ClearText><Set 0x1517 to 00> I sit down and wait, following Magil's orders.
<Waitpad>As I sit here in the dim light, an unsettling silence fills the room.
<waitpad> The longer I stay here, the more likely a guard patrol is bound to come. Could I handle a goblin all by myself? Or an entire troupe of them, no less?
<delay 0a><choice 0x03946A> *Keep waiting. 
<Choice 0x039249> *Go after them on second thought. 
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03937E>
<ClearText> Should I really leave...?
<Waitpad> It's not really all that safe to stay here, but are my odds any better out there?
<waitpad> Even if I can escape the mansion alive, it's going to be curtains for me once those feral cats pick up my scent...
<Waitpad><ClearText> The more I think about it, the more I realize it's better to stay here. I'm worried about Kid and Magil, though...
<delay 0a><choice 0x0392F3> *Keep waiting. 
<Choice 0x039249> *Go after them.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03946A>
<ClearText> I keep waiting.
<waitpad> And waiting...
<waitpad> ...and waiting.
<Waitpad> I wonder if they're all right. Where could they have gone? I don't hear them anywhere in the mansion, but it is a pretty big place...
<Waitpad><cleartext> Maybe... maybe when you touch the crystal, it evaporates you and takes your soul.
<Waitpad> I don't know... Magil sure didn't have any fear when he touched it. But then again, Magil really doesn't show a whole lot of fear of anything.
<Waitpad> I wonder if he could actually read that writing on the slab. Maybe he read it but didn't tell me what it said...
<delay 0a><choice 0x039249> *Go after them. 
<Choice 0x03955D> *Keep waiting.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03955D>
<ClearText><TextSpeed 0F> .........<delay 20>...
<waitpad><call 0x007474> ...If something were to happen to them, I...
<delay 0a><choice 0x039249> *I have to go after them. 
<Choice 0x0395AC> *Keep on waiting.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0395AC>
<ClearText> ...
<delay 0a><choice 0x0395F3> *Wait. 
<Choice 0x0395F3> *Wait. 
<Choice 0x0395F3> *Wait. 
<Choice 0x0395F3> *Wait. 
<Choice 0x039A93> *Wait!$@#$%!#@!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0395F3>
<ClearText> But, what if...
<delay 0a><Choice 0x039684> *What if they were vaporized? 
<Choice 0x0396C9> *No, they're definitely going to come back. 
<Choice 0x0396F7> *Maybe they're somewhere far away... maybe they can't come back! 
<Choice 0x039743> *Try to stop thinking about it.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x039684>
<ClearText><Subtract 05 from 0x1515> Maybe they're dead! They would have come back by now if they could...
<Waitpad> No, I can't start thinking like that. They're strong, I'm sure they can handle whatever they're up against.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x039787>

<Label 0x0396C9>
<ClearText> Yeah, they're probably going to be coming back any minute now.
<Waitpad> I've gotta have faith.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x039787>

<Label 0x0396F7>
<ClearText> That's definitely a possibility... I don't know what to do...
<Waitpad><TextSpeed 14> ...<call 0x007474>I'm scared...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x039787>

<Label 0x039743>
<ClearText><TextSpeed 12> .......
<call 0x007474><Waitpad> Yeah, no worries...
<waitpad> I look around the room. Wow... it sure has a nice, uh, color... or something...
<waitpad> Hmm...
<waitpad> ......
<waitpad> Oh man... who am I kidding.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x039787>

<Label 0x039787>
<ClearText><Volume 00, 00><TextSpeed 14> ......
<call 0x007474> Time passes...
<Waitpad> Suddenly, the crystal begins to glow!
<24, 7F, 1E><24, FF, 1E><Delay 0F> As the light subsides, Magil and Kid have returned!
<Waitpad>"Hey! Welcome back!"
<waitpad> I run over to them.
<Waitpad>"I'm so glad, I really am..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What are you cryin' for, mate?"
<Waitpad>"Huh? Oh... I'm just... happy to see you!"
<Waitpad>"We had to do a bunch of stuff. We're kinda tired..."
<Waitpad> Taking a look, they do seem kind of roughed up.
<Waitpad>"What happened to you guys? Where did you go? You didn't like, die or anything, right?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Heh, no, I don't think so. We went to this huge arena where it was daytime out, and we had to fight this giant monster!"
<Waitpad>"Huh...?"
<Waitpad>"And look, check this out."
<Waitpad> Kid reaches her hand out toward the crystal. She takes it out of the stone slab as if it was an ordinary gem!
<waitpad><cleartext>"They said we could have this as a reward. Well, one down, more to go. C'mon, let's go find the Flame!"
<Waitpad> Kid runs out of the room. Magil follows.
<Waitpad> Teleportation... battle arenas... giant monsters... uhh...
<waitpad><Goto 0x02005C>

<Label 0x0399B5>
<ClearText>"Yeah! Who do ya think I am?" Kid shouts, hitting me upside the head.
<PlaySound 0B><Waitpad>"You really are useless, aren't ya!" she shouts, glaring at me.
<Waitpad>"We battled a giant monster in this big arena, in the middle of the day."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"C'mon, there's bound to be more of these rooms in the mansion somewhere."
<Waitpad> Kid and Magil rush out of the room without missing a beat.
<Waitpad> I can't begin to imagine what happened back there, but these sure are some tough cookies...
<waitpad><Goto 0x02005C>

<Label 0x039A93>
<ClearText> I can't take it anymore! I've got to go after them!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x039249>

<Label 0x039ACA>
<ClearText><ClearBG><26, 2B><24, 7F, 78><Delay 23><0A, 26><24, FF, 5A><Delay 17><04, 5A, 00><04, 5B, 01><FadeOut 64, 0A><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 00><Volume 6A, 64><PlaySong 09> When I come to, I'm outside! I look around, and I seem to be in some sort of arena. But the weirdest thing of all is that it's daytime out!
<Waitpad>"Wh, what's going on!?"
<Waitpad>"What makes ya think I know?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"We were probably teleported here..."
<delay 08><Volume 6A, 5A><Choice 0x039D92> *"But where's here?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x039C86> *"Where's Magil?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x039E3A> *"What are we supposed to do now?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x039C86>
"I dunno, I haven't seen him."
<waitpad>"We ought to find him, I suppose. Do you recognize this place at all?"
<waitpad>"No... we're probably in some sorta Illusion World, since we're here in the middle of the day.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Illusion World?"
<Waitpad>"Yeah, I learned about this kinda thing from Magil. They're places that don't exist in reality... hollow voids created by a magic user."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x039EF8>

<Label 0x039D92>
"Well, just as it looks, mate. We're in a coliseum in the middle of the day I guess. I don't think we're in the real world anymore, though..."
<Waitpad>"Huh? We're not in reality?"
<Waitpad>"Yeah, I learned about this kinda thing from Magil. There are voids that only exist because magic users create 'em. They're called illusion worlds. A powerful mage probably created this..."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x039EF8>

<Label 0x039E3A>
"I dunno... wanna explore a little bit?"
<waitpad>"What!? I want to get back home!!"
<waitpad>"Aw... okay..."
<Waitpad><cleartext> We survey the area, however, there are no stone slabs in sight. It looks as though this was a one-way ticket.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"This place can't be real... it's the middle of the day here, for cryin' out loud! It's gotta be an Illusion World..."
<Waitpad>"Illusion World?"
<Waitpad>"Yeah, I learned about this kinda thing from Magil. There are voids that only exist because magic users create 'em. They're called Illusion Worlds. A powerful mage probably created this..."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x039EF8>

<Label 0x039EF8>
<ClearText> Just then, a shrill laughter echoes throughout the arena. "Hee, hee hee..."
<delay 0a><choice 0x039F50> *"Who's there!?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x039FF5> *"What was that, Kid?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x03A0C2> *"..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x039F50>
<ClearText><Volume 6A, 64><Add 05 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x039F74><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x039F74>
<cleartext> I shout out bravely, making sure I can be heard throughout the entire arena.
<Waitpad> However, there's no reply. Kid and I look all around, but there's nothing to be found.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A155>

<Label 0x039FF5>
<ClearText><Subtract 05 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x03A00D><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x03A00D>
 I turn toward Kid, who scowls at me for acting so scared.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Who's there!?" she shouts out after a while, looking all around. No reply...
<Waitpad> The hot sun beats down on us as we walk, looking around, awaiting our fate.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A155>

<Label 0x03A0C2>
 Kid and I silently search out the owner of the laughter. The arena goes quiet...
<Waitpad> The hot sun beats down on us as we walk, looking around, awaiting our fate.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A155>

<Label 0x03A155>
<cleartext> But then, all of a sudden, a figure appears in the far entranceway! Its voice resonates throughout the arena once again, "Welcome to my coliseum."
<delay 0a><choice 0x03A1AE> *Confront the figure. 
<Choice 0x03A291> *Stand our ground. 
<Choice 0x03A220> *Shout "Who are you!?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03A1AE>
<ClearText> I try to dash over to it, but I find myself unable to move a muscle!
<waitpad>"Urrghh..."
<Waitpad> Kid seems to be stuck, just the same as I am!
<Waitpad>"Please, calm yourselves, and listen to what I have to say."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A291>

<Label 0x03A220>
<ClearText> I try to shout out, but I find myself unable to move a muscle!
<waitpad>"Urrghh..."
<Waitpad> Kid seems to be immobilized, just the same as I am!
<Waitpad>"Please, calm yourselves, and hear to what I say."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A291>

<Label 0x03A291>
<ClearText>"Allow myself to introduce... myself. I am known as Gange, Master Illusionist. And yes, as the astute young Miss said, this is an illusory world. The arena you see around you exists only as long as I care for it to."
<Waitpad> Saying that, Gange floats up above us, to about head height.
<Waitpad><Volume 6A, 5A><ClearText>"This coliseum is a place of battle. Only victors shall gain passage back to the real world."
<Waitpad>"On this day, we have two very adept competitors! You two shall come together in the ancient ritual of battle on this very ground!" he announces, pointing towards us!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Are there any questions?"
<delay 0a><choice 0x03A427> *"Why do we have to fight!?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x03A4C0> *"Kid and me!?"
<delay 0a><Choice 0x03A574> *"..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03A427>
<ClearText>"Because you came to the coliseum, of course. If you wish to return, you'll have to fight for it."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A623>

<Label 0x03A4C0>
<ClearText>"That's right, you must fight."
<Waitpad>"Whoa whoa whoa whoa! Yer tellin' me that I've had to listen to you spout all this crap, and now I have to fight Serge? It's -us- who are gonna fight -you-!"
<Waitpad>"Ah, but that would be impossible, my girl. And besides, there'd be no point. Killing me would do nothing to shatter this world."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A623>

<Label 0x03A574>
<ClearText>"Well then, if there are no questions..."
<Waitpad>"Whoa whoa whoa whoa! Yer tellin' me that I've had to listen to you spout all this crap, and now I have to fight Serge? It's -us- who are gonna fight -you-!"
<Waitpad>"That's impossible, and besides, there'd be no point. Killing me would do nothing to shatter this world. In fact, it would do nothing but trap you here indefinitely."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A623>

<Label 0x03A623>
<ClearText>"You see, I am conducting an ongoing search for individuals who possess pure strength. Who knows, perhaps one of you may end up being one of my prized gladiators."
<Waitpad> What the...?
<Waitpad><Volume 6A, 64><cleartext>"Well then, shall we begin? Your audience is awaiting bloodshed!"
<Waitpad> Just as Master Illusionist Gange says this, a booming roar arises from the seats in the audience, where I could have sworn not a single person sat just a minute ago.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, yes... I almost forgot. It would be difficult for the two of you to combat each other in that form, wouldn't it? Allow me to transform you. Today's show will be... what shall it be... ah, yes, how about gigantic warrior combat? Behold, Serge the Gladiator versus Gigaweapon Kid!"
<Waitpad> With a wave of his hands, Master Illusionist Gange disappears into thin air!
<Waitpad>"What the bloody hell is goin' on<TextSpeed 14>...?<call 0x007474><delay 10> Urgh...!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 7F, 14><24, FF, 14><Delay 0A> Suddenly, Kid's body becomes a glistening ball of white light!
<Waitpad>"Grahhhhh..."
<Waitpad> Kid starts to make all sorts of loud, contorted shrieks, as her radiating white body rapidly grows larger and larger!
<waitpad><cleartext><24, 7F, 78><Delay 30><Call 0x000C02><Delay 03><24, FF, 78><Delay 26> As the light dissipates, standing there before me is a humongous, muscle-clad, one-eyed beast!
<Waitpad><ClearText> I look down and realize that I, too, have been transformed! I now have a sword in my right hand and a shield in my left! Not only that, I'm decked from head to toe in leather and chains! Power swells up inside my body as I flex my newly-gained muscles!
<Add 0A to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x03A849><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x03A849>
<Waitpad><ClearText> The crowd erupts into a frenzy!
<Waitpad> Gange's voice blares over the crowd. "The contestants have been rendered! Commence fighting!"
<Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 05><Waitpad> Kid, the Gigaweapon Cyclops, scowls at me with its huge, round eye.
<Waitpad><Set 0x1524 to 00><Set 0x1525 to 00><Set 0x1526 to 00><Set 0x1517 to 00><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03A8D7>
<Add 01 to 0x1517><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 09 goto 0x03A8E7><Goto 0x03B9BD>

<Label 0x03A8E7>
<Choice 0x03A90C> *Fight! 
<Choice 0x03A94D> *Run! 
<Choice 0x03A98E> *Talk!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03A90C>
<ClearText><Add 01 to 0x1524><If 0x1524 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03A91D><Goto 0x03A9CF>

<Label 0x03A91D>
<If 0x1524 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x03A929><Goto 0x03AA88>

<Label 0x03A929>
<If 0x1524 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x03A935><Goto 0x03AB63>

<Label 0x03A935>
<If 0x1524 doesn't equal 04 goto 0x03A941><Goto 0x03AC5F>

<Label 0x03A941>
<If 0x1524 doesn't equal 05 goto 0x03A94D><Goto 0x03AD2C>

<Label 0x03A94D>
<ClearText><Add 01 to 0x1525><If 0x1525 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03A95E><Goto 0x03AED0>

<Label 0x03A95E>
<If 0x1525 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x03A96A><Goto 0x03AF8B>

<Label 0x03A96A>
<If 0x1525 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x03A976><Goto 0x03B063>

<Label 0x03A976>
<If 0x1525 doesn't equal 04 goto 0x03A982><Goto 0x03B0A4>

<Label 0x03A982>
<If 0x1525 doesn't equal 05 goto 0x03A98E><Goto 0x03B117>

<Label 0x03A98E>
<ClearText><Add 01 to 0x1526><If 0x1526 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03A99F><Goto 0x03B199>

<Label 0x03A99F>
<If 0x1526 doesn't equal 02 goto 0x03A9AB><Goto 0x03B48C>

<Label 0x03A9AB>
<If 0x1526 doesn't equal 03 goto 0x03A9B7><Goto 0x03B596>

<Label 0x03A9B7>
<If 0x1526 doesn't equal 04 goto 0x03A9C3><Goto 0x03B670>

<Label 0x03A9C3>
<If 0x1526 doesn't equal 05 goto 0x03A9CF><Goto 0x03B781>

<Label 0x03A9CF>
<ClearText> I swing my huge sword up, but it goes clearly over my head, as though it was made of paper!
<Waitpad>"What the...?"
<Waitpad> Usually I couldn't freely handle a sword like this with -both hands-, let alone one. And yet, I find myself somehow able to handle this huge weapon with the greatest ease!
<Waitpad> But there's no time to fool around with any of that now... the cyclops is coming straight for me! With a swift leap, I dash to the side!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Parrying a swing, I thrust my sword into foot of the cyclops!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89>"Guaaahhh!"
<PlaySound 1C><Waitpad> The cyclops lets out a cry of pain! However, I can't hear a single bit of resemblance to Kid's voice... I doubt it knows I'm Serge, either!
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03AA88>
<ClearText> The cyclops raises its fist above my head, bringing it down with staggering force!
<Waitpad> I succeed in parrying the fist with my shield, but still, a dull impact runs through my left side!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad> My feet have been driven into the ground because of the blow, but both my shield and my body remain undamaged!
<Waitpad><ClearText> I just blocked a hit as strong as an elephant's... I have -this- kind of strength...!?
<Waitpad> A wave of power runs through me as I realize this. I swing my sword out, slashing at the arm that attacked me!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03AB63>
<ClearText> I bend down, and amassing my strength, I hurl myself into the air!
<Waitpad> My body seems to hang in midair, just like Magil! No, even more powerful than that!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 14>"Wow! This is great!" I yell as I glide through the air! Power wells up from the pit of my being as I descend to the ground!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Landing precisely at the right point for a swoop attack, I bring down my sword with all my might into the cyclops' shoulder!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad>"Gyaaaaargh!"
<PlaySound 0F><Waitpad> The cyclops falls to its knees, writing in pain!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03AC5F>
<ClearText> I run toward the cyclops, and taking a deep breath, come crashing into it with all my might!
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad> It's hurled backwards, slamming into the coliseum wall, dazed. I'm beating the cyclops by an overwhelming amount!
<Waitpad> It does nothing but lay there, full of wounds.
<Waitpad><ClearText> It tries to get up, putting its hand out in front of it, but it's obviously suffering a great deal.
<Waitpad>"Huahahahah, I'm gonna win!!" I shout, dancing around madly!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03AD2C>
<ClearText> I toss my shield away, grasping this huge sword with both hands.
<PlaySound 0C><Waitpad> I still can't believe how easily I can throw this blade around. It must weigh more than a hundred pounds, but somehow it feels as light as a feather!
<Waitpad> Before me stands the battered cyclops, cringing in pain, full of the wounds I've inflicted.
<Waitpad> If I keep this up, I'm bound to win!
<waitpad><cleartext> A wave of power rushes into me as I raise my tightly gripped weapon high overhead.
<Waitpad> With a precisely timed leap, I bring the sword down onto the cyclops' head as I approach my destination!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03AE23>

<Label 0x03AE23>
 Crack!
<24, 7F, 04><24, FF, 04><PlaySound 1D><Delay 02><waitpad><cleartext><Delay 0F> Urrrghh...
<waitpad><cleartext> I aimed it right, but my sword was somehow deflected, leaving me with nothing but a terrible vibration running through my body!
<Waitpad> I wasn't repelled by the cyclops... there's no way it can block like that. What happened...?
<waitpad> There, high above me, I find my answer.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Magil!!"
<Waitpad> Floating in midair is the ever-watchful Magil, readied with his blade drawn.
<Waitpad>"Magil, why did you do that!?"
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Have you forgotten who you are? Or who that is? Though she has a different form, that is still your accomplice, Kid!"
<Waitpad><Set 0x1517 to 64><Goto 0x03BA42>

<Label 0x03AED0>
<ClearText> The cyclops raises its fist high above its head, and aims to brings it down on me!
<Waitpad>"Graaaaaaaaaah!"
<PlaySound 0F><Waitpad> The loud roar from the cyclops' mouth nearly freezes me in my tracks, but, I manage to leap back at the last possible second!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Slaaaaaaaaaam!!
<24, 7F, 04><24, FF, 04><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 0A><Delay 02><Waitpad> The giant fist burrows into the ground, kicking up a huge cloud of dirt!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03AF8B>
<ClearText> I turn, dashing away from it as fast as I can!
<Waitpad> The cyclops chases after me, taking long, huge steps in pursuit.
<Waitpad> I arrive at the far wall, leaning up against it to regain my breath.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Just then, from out of nowhere, comes the voice of Master Illusionist Gange.
<Waitpad>"You can run, but you cannot hide, Gladiator. This will only delay the inevitable."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03B063>
<ClearText> The cyclops stretches its leg out, trying to stomp me!
<Waitpad> Thuuuuuuuump!!!
<Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 0A><Waitpad> I leap to the side just in time to avoid it.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03B0A4>
<ClearText> The cyclops tries a sucker punch!
<Waitpad> Whap!
<PlaySound 13><Waitpad> With the giant fist flying towards me, I try to duck. But, I'm a fraction of a second too late!
<Waitpad>The fist slams into my shield!
<PlaySound 04><Subtract 0A from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x03B112><Set 0x1514 to 01>

<Label 0x03B112>
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03B117>
<ClearText>"Huff... huff... huff..."
<Waitpad> I'm getting tired... I toss my sword and shield onto the ground, and run with all the energy I have left!
<Waitpad> I run around the arena for a minute or two, but there's just no escaping that bloodthirsty thing!
<Waitpad><cleartext> My legs gradually begin to wear out, burning more and more. Soon, they start to become wobbly, then give out altogether!
<Waitpad> The cyclops finally catches up, bringing its huge fists down on me!
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03B87E>

<Label 0x03B199>
<ClearText><If 0x1524 doesn't equal 04 goto 0x03B241>"How does it feel to be defeated, Gigaweapon? This fight is mine! Do you yield!?"
<Waitpad>"Grrrraaaaaaaaah!!"
<PlaySound 0D><Waitpad> Not persuaded in the least, the one-eyed beast lets out a bloodcurdling roar!
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03B241>
<cleartext><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03B3A9>"Kid! Are you in there? Hey, Kid!!"
<Waitpad> I try talking to Kid, who is now supposedly something called a Gigaweapon...
<Waitpad>"Can you hear me!? Say something if you can hear me!"
<Waitpad> It stands perfectly still for a short while, looking at me. Then, suddenly, it lets out a huge roar!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0F>"Graaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"
<waitpad> That's not really what I had in mind...
<Waitpad> In the next instant, I suddenly see the cyclops' fist coming down on me for an overhead attack!
<Waitpad> Slaaaaaaaaaaaam!
<Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 0A><Waitpad> I barely avoid the blow, leaping out of the way just in time!
<Waitpad>"Kid! It's me!!"
<Waitpad> I can't get to her... all I can see is that ravenous eye, staring at me with mortal intent!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03B488>

<Label 0x03B3A9>
<cleartext>"Kid! Listen to me!! We have to stop fighting!! You can understand what I'm saying, can't you!?"
<Waitpad> Even though she's changed form, she has to be in there somewhere... I don't want to fight her.
<Waitpad> However, the cyclops does nothing more than stare at me, not seeming to let go of an ounce of its combative energy!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Graaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!"
<PlaySound 0F><Waitpad> It lets out a giant roar, preparing for its next attack!
<Waitpad>"Kid..."
<delay 0a>

<Label 0x03B488>
<Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03B48C>
<ClearText><If 0x1524 doesn't equal 04 goto 0x03B504>"Kid... I don't want to hurt you any more, but I've won. It's pointless to fight any more. Listen to me, please..."
<Waitpad> However, the cyclops simply glares at me, unremorsefully.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03B592>

<Label 0x03B504>
<cleartext>"Kid! There's no reason we should fight each other!!"
<Waitpad> However, the cyclops only continues to grow more and more infuriated! Its fists come raining down on me madly!
<Waitpad> Slaaaaaaaaaaaaam!
<Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 0A><Waitpad> I roll to the side, and somehow avoid the pommel!
<Waitpad><ClearText> It stomps after me with its heavy feet, not letting up in the least.
<delay 0a>

<Label 0x03B592>
<Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03B596>
<ClearText><If 0x1524 doesn't equal 04 goto 0x03B5F4>"Kid, your odds of winning are..."
<Waitpad> Slammmmmmmmm!
<Waitpad> The cyclops tries to punch me again and again, but I easily dodge its slow attempts.
<Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 0A><Waitpad>"Kid, knock it off already!"
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03B66C>

<Label 0x03B5F4>
<cleartext>"Kid! Stop...!"
<Delay 0F> Slammmmmmm!
<PlaySound 13><Waitpad> The cyclops' fist lunges out at me!
<Waitpad> Clang!
<Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 0A><Delay 0F> I block the attack with my shield, but, unable to bear its brunt force, I'm thrown backwards onto the ground!
<Subtract 0F from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x03B66B><Set 0x1514 to 01>

<Label 0x03B66B>
<Waitpad><cleartext>

<Label 0x03B66C>
<Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03B670>
<ClearText>"Kid, I'm begging you!"
<Waitpad> I don't know whether she can hear my voice or not. I have to keep trying though!
<Waitpad><If 0x1524 doesn't equal 04 goto 0x03B6E3> Despite its many injuries, it mercilessly continues to attack!
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03B77D>

<Label 0x03B6E3>
 Not listening at all to what I say, the cyclops comes in for yet another attack!
<Waitpad> Whap!
<Call 0x000DA0><Delay 0F> The top of my shield receives the full force of the punch. I'm thrown off balance, and I hit the ground hard!
<Subtract 0F from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x03B750><Set 0x1514 to 01>

<Label 0x03B750>
<Waitpad><ClearText> My body flies through midair like an old rag, and hits the ground about ten yards away!
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x03B77D>
<Goto 0x03A8D7>

<Label 0x03B781>
<ClearText>"Kid... stop... please," I beg, throwing my sword and shield to the ground.
<Waitpad>"That's enough already! Stop this!!"
<Waitpad> I yell out at the giant monstrosity, holding out my arms wide in front of me to show that I have no intention of fighting.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Firmly keep my stare on the Cyclops' giant eyeball, I desperately keep trying to reach Kid...
<Waitpad> The pain from my many wounds scream out at me, but I keep a straight face, intent on getting my message across.
<Waitpad><ClearText> However,<Delay 0D> However, the cyclops only uses this opportunity to move in for a cheap shot!
<Waitpad> Its giant eye looks down on me, as the hulking behemoth brings down its huge fist.
<Waitpad> It's no use... I don't even have the strength to dodge anymore.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03B87E>

<Label 0x03B87E>
<cleartext> I close my eyes, and wait for the final strike.
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, 7F, 04><24, 7F, 04><24, FF, 04><24, 7F, 04><24, FF, 04>         Blang!
<PlaySound 0B><Delay 0F>"Wha, wh... what happened!?" I yell, opening my eyes as soon as I hear that sound.
<Waitpad> The cyclops' punch didn't reach me. In fact, it seems to be recoiling back away from me, cradling its fist.
<Waitpad> It apparently stopped throwing its punch right front of me.
<waitpad> No... it was stopped by something. But what...?
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Magil!!"
<Waitpad> Magil floats in midair above me. He must have blocked the punch!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Magil, why!?"
<Waitpad>"Don't be rash. Value your life."
<Waitpad>"But, this is Kid..."
<Waitpad><cleartext>"I know. Leave that to me."
<Waitpad> Reassured by Magil, I feel a new found strength return to my body. I scamper out of the way, eager to see what he's going to do.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03BA42>

<Label 0x03B9BD>
<Choice 0x03B9E2> *Fight! 
<Choice 0x03B117> *Run! 
<Choice 0x03B781> *Talk!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03B9E2>
<ClearText> I throw away my shield, grabbing my huge sword with both hands. I hone in on the cyclops, eager to make a kill.
<Waitpad> I leap with all my might, and aiming for the cyclops' head, I quickly bring down my blade!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03AE23>

<Label 0x03BA42>
<cleartext><delay 0a><Call 0x000DB7><Choice 0x03BADC> *"Why are you here?"<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x03BB7B if 0x1524 doesn't equal 05> *"Get out of my way!"<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x03BC69> *"Thanks."<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x03BCF8 if 0x1517 is greater than 64> *"You saved me..."<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x03BD2D if 0x1517 is greater than 64> *"But, Kid..."<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x03BD86 if 0x1517 doesn't equal 64> *"If I kill the cyclops..."<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x03BE14> *"..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03BADC>
<ClearText>"I came to save you and Kid, of course."
<waitpad><cleartext> Magil's dry rhetoric never sounded so good.
<Waitpad>"You were the easy one. Kid, on the other hand, is going to need some more work."
<Waitpad> Staring at the cyclops' rabid gaze, I take a deep breath and let Magil do his thing.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03BE86>

<Label 0x03BB7B>
<cleartext> All I can think about is getting that puny magician out of my way, before I pommel this cyclops into the ground!
<Waitpad>"Pull yourself together!" Magil shouts, slapping me across the face!
<PlaySound 0E><Delay 08>"Serge, Look! That cyclops is Kid! Stop trying to kill her!"
<Waitpad> What? Oh my God... what have I done to her!?
<waitpad> A huge chill runs down my spine as I look back at Magil, frightened of myself.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03BE86>

<Label 0x03BC69>
"Don't mention it."
<Waitpad><cleartext>

<Label 0x03BC76>
<cleartext> Magil glares at the cyclops in all its writhing ugliness. As the two confront each other, suddenly a glaze comes over the cyclops' single eye.
<Waitpad><cleartext> Crash!!
<Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 19><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 08> The cyclops falls to the ground, somehow losing consciousness!
<Waitpad> !??
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03BE86>

<Label 0x03BCF8>
<Waitpad> Magil's here... everything's going to be all right.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x03BC76>

<Label 0x03BD2D>
"Can she be changed back from... that thing?" I ask.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x03BC76>

<Label 0x03BD86>
 Suddenly, Magil slaps me across the face!
<playsound 0e><Waitpad><cleartext>"Get a hold of yourself. You will not kill the cyclops," he admonishes in a calm tone. "Even in this form, Kid is still Kid. She's a little bit of a bother though, I see. Now please, stand back."
<Waitpad> Magil turns around, facing the cyclops.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x03BC76>

<Label 0x03BE14>
 I don't know what to say. Too many thoughts are running through my head all at once...
<Waitpad><cleartext><Goto 0x03BE86>

<Label 0x03BE86>
<ClearText> All of a sudden, the voice of Master Illusionist Gange comes out of nowhere, echoing from all around! "Oh, a third has come to play? Well, what shall I do?"
<Waitpad> With that, Master Illusionist Gange appears out of thin air before us.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Well then, my audience! Let us thank these two with a great hurrah for the marvelous display they have given us!"
<waitpad> A tremendous cheer arises from the empty seats.
<waitpad> As the applause grows louder and louder, the cyclops' body glows brighter and brighter, until it's solid white!
<24, 7F, 3C><Delay 12><Call 0x000BF6><Delay 12><Waitpad><ClearText> When the light subsides, there lies Kid, resting calmly on the ground.
<Waitpad><cleartext><If 0x1524 is less than 00 goto 0x03C021> The wounds I had inflicted on her seem to have vanished.
<waitpad>

<Label 0x03C021>
I, too, find I'm back to my original self. It seems as though some of my wounds have been healed as well!
<Add 19 to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x03C057><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x03C057>
<Waitpad>"Well what a show that was -- Serge the Gladiator versus Gigaweapon Kid! Quite the marvelous melee!"
<Waitpad><If 0x1525 is less than 04 goto 0x03C0A1><Goto 0x03C150>

<Label 0x03C0A1>
<If 0x1524 is less than 04 goto 0x03C0AD><Goto 0x03C0BD>

<Label 0x03C0AD>
<If 0x1526 is greater than 03 goto 0x03C0B9><Goto 0x03C1F9>

<Label 0x03C0B9>
<Goto 0x03C2A7>

<Label 0x03C0BD>
<ClearText><Subtract 1E from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x03C0CE><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x03C0CE>
"However, I am afraid to say that you, Serge, may not be the warrior I am looking for. It seems you sometimes indulge in power a bit too easily."
<Waitpad> With that, he glances at Magil, and then back to me.
<waitpad>"At any rate, you are proving to be most interesting specimens."
<Waitpad><Set 0x14F0 to 00><Goto 0x03C309>

<Label 0x03C150>
<ClearText><Subtract 14 from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x03C161><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x03C161>
"However, I am afraid to say that you, Serge, may not be the warrior I am looking for. It seems that you sometimes do not take enough initiative to remedy a situation."
<Waitpad> With that, he glances at Magil, and then back to me.
<waitpad>"At any rate, you are proving to be most interesting specimens."
<Waitpad><Set 0x14F0 to 00><Goto 0x03C309>

<Label 0x03C1F9>
<ClearText><Subtract 0A from 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x03C20A><Set 0x1515 to 00>

<Label 0x03C20A>
"However, I am afraid to say that you, Serge, may not be the warrior I am looking for. It seems that you show little consistency in your technique... a trait of an indecisive warrior.
<Waitpad> With that, he glances at Magil, and then back to me.
<waitpad>"At any rate, you are proving to be most interesting specimens."
<Waitpad><Set 0x14F0 to 00><Goto 0x03C309>

<Label 0x03C2A7>
<ClearText><24, 8F, 00><Delay 02>"Master Serge, I am honored to announce that you may hold the esteemed power inside you which I have been searching for. Please, I would be honored if you would take me with you."
<delay 0a><choice 0x03C525> *Yes.
<Choice 0x03C524> *No.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03C524>
<cleartext>"But you must!" he pleads. "To say no to a Master Illusionist within his own illusion is a most unspeakable crime, penalized by an indefinite iteration!"
<waitpad>"...Huh?"
<waitpad>"Allow me to demonstrate," Gange says.
<waitpad><goto 0x03C2A7>

<Label 0x03C309>
<ClearText>"Well then, it's back to the real world with you! I shall send all three of you back to where you came, free of charge!"
<Waitpad> Before I can even respond, everything before my eyes instantly turns a bright white.
<24, 7F, 3C><Delay 14><ClearBG><Delay 03><24, FF, 3C><Waitpad><cleartext><Delay 12> When I come to, we're all back inside the hidden room in Viper Manor!
<Waitpad>"What the heck was all that?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"M, Mm..."
<waitpad> Kid, still only semi-conscious, seems to be finally snapping out of it.
<Waitpad>"Hey, Kid, are you okay?" I ask, kneeling down to her.
<Waitpad>"What was all that about... was I dreamin'?" she asks, restlessly looking around the room.
<Waitpad><If 0x1517 doesn't equal 2C goto 0x03C448><Goto 0x03C5E5>

<Label 0x03C448>
<ClearText>"Hey!"
<Waitpad>"What, Kid?"
<Waitpad>"The crystal's gone!"
<Waitpad> I whip around and see she's right -- the crystal has disappeared from the center of the slab.
<Waitpad>"Do you blokes have it?"
<Waitpad>"No."
<waitpad>"I do not."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid slowly gets up, dusting herself off as she stretches some sore muscles.
<Waitpad>"Well, no sense in hangin' around here all day. C'mon, this place is borin' me to tears!"
<Waitpad> As I follow her out, I wonder if she remembers anything about what happened... or would believe any of it, for that matter. I'm not even sure what to believe anymore, myself...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 1E><Delay 08><ClearBG><FadeIn 70, 01><Goto 0x02005C>

<Label 0x03C525>
<ClearText>"Though I wish to come with you, I cannot travel through your world in this form. Upon your return, take the white crystal into your hand. I will be with you at all times, through it. I may be able to lend some assistance to your cause -- as long as you have the crystal in your possession, you will be able to summon the Gigaweapon to fight on your behalf!"
<waitpad> Sounds like a good deal to me...
<Waitpad><Set 0x1517 to 2C><Goto 0x03C309>

<Label 0x03C5E5>
<ClearText> Kid's eyes widen upon seeing the embedded crystal once again. It seems like it sparkles now even more than it did before...
<waitpad>"I knew this thing was valuable, but... what a great find!" she exclaims.
<Waitpad> With that, Kid reaches out for the shiny gem. It picks it up off the slab as easily as though it was never restrained at all.
<Waitpad><ClearText> She pockets it, and turns to us. "Well hey, we got somethin' extra for our trouble. C'mon, back to the mission!" she says lightly, trotting out of the room.
<Waitpad> Magil and I exchanges glances.
<Waitpad>"I wonder if she even remembers all about what she just went through?"
<Waitpad>"Indeed," Magil says, lifting an eyebrow.
<Waitpad><Set 0x14F0 to 01><FadeOut 70, 1E><Delay 08><ClearBG><FadeIn 70, 01><Goto 0x02005C>

<Label 0x03C70A>
<ClearText><Goto 0x03C70F>

<Label 0x03C70F>
<ClearText><PlaySound 19>"Uwaaaaa!!"
<waitpad> Kid lets out a deafening battle cry as she breaks into a sprint for the center of the room.
<Waitpad><Volume 00, 00><Volume 6A, FF><PlaySong 13><FadeOut 70, 00><Call 0x000A9D><FadeIn 6C, 1E> As we step in, we see what she's running towards. There, a ways ahead of us, stands a tall man with a very peculiar hairstyle.
<Waitpad>"I gotcha right where I want ya, Lynx!"
<Waitpad> And, floating in midair just a few feet in front of lynx, a faint scarlet light pulsates...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"The Frozen Flame!!"
<Waitpad>"Indeed it is, young man," Lynx says.
<Waitpad> The radiance of the Frozen Flame seems to increase even more as we speak.
<Waitpad>"So, you've finally arrived. I had almost grown tired of waiting."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hah! Yer gonna get it, Lynx! Bringin' the Frozen Flame here, we're gonna kill two birds with one stone!"
<Waitpad>"Oh, I would beg to differ, Miss."
<Waitpad><ClearText> However, Kid takes a step forward, shouting up at Lord Lynx. "Sorry you went to all the trouble of waitin' here for us, but, we'll be on our way now, taking the Flame with us. Oh yeah, after we tear ya limb from limb, that is," she says with a coy smile.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Large words, young lady. But can you back them up?" Lord Lynx says, matching her smile.
<Waitpad><If 0x1524 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x03C994><If 0x1525 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x03C994><If 0x1526 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x03C994><Goto 0x03CDA8>

<Label 0x03C994>
<If 0x14F0 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x03C9A0><Goto 0x03C9A4>

<Label 0x03C9A0>
<Goto 0x03D097>

<Label 0x03C9A4>
<ClearText>"Mecha-Lynx! Go!!" he shouts suddenly!
<waitpad> Kid and I glance at each other, confused.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 15> All of a sudden, the floor between us opens up, and a huge, mechanical beast with Lynx's likeness slowly rises up through it!
<Waitpad>"What the...!?"
<Waitpad> The huge, mechanical beast breaks through the ceiling! The floor continues to rise, however, and the monstrosity continues to tower above us, more and more!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 19> Rubble falls down from the cracked ceiling. Moonlight begins to shine down through the huge hole that's been made!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 22><Delay 04><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 22>"I never knew he had anything like this...!"
<delay 0a><choice 0x03CAEF> *Run! 
<Choice 0x03CB09> *Fight! 
<Choice 0x03CB20> *Think! 
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03CAEF>
"We gotta get outta here. This entire room is gonna be nothin' but rubble in less than a minute!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03CB38>

<Label 0x03CB09>
"We know what we have to do! Come on!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03CB38>

<Label 0x03CB20>
"Can you see any weak spots?"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03CB38>

<Label 0x03CB38>
<ClearText> Suddenly, a voice can be heard from behind us.
<waitpad>"Excuse me... may I say something?"
<waitpad> We whip around, only to see the crystal from before, floating in midair!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It's Gange!"
<Waitpad>"Yes, pleased to make your re-acquaintance. I couldn't help but take notice of what's happening, and thought I might be of some assistance. I am indebted to your freeing me from that room, and I do have somewhat of a grudge against the man who kept me captive in there for so long..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Assistance? What the bloody hell can a talkin' crystal do for us now?"
<Waitpad>"Through this crystal, you can summon the Gigaweapon `Paradise X' as your gladiator servant."
<Waitpad>"Paradise X!?"
<Waitpad>"In addition, it will be summoned into the real world, able to fight on your behalf in the here and now."
<Waitpad>"Huh!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> No sooner than it finishes speaking does the crystal begin to shimmer brighter and brighter, and once again, everything around me turns a bright white!
<24, 7F, 78><Delay 1E><24, FF, 3C><Delay 0F><Waitpad><ClearText> When the light subsides, an enormous, ferocious beast has appeared in front of us, facing Mecha-Lynx!
<PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 0F><Call 0x000D7D><Waitpad>"Wha... what is that thing!?" Kid asks, astonished.
<Waitpad>"Who cares! It's going to fight for us!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x03D47D>

<Label 0x03CDA8>
<ClearText>"No problemo!" Kid says, producing the shimmering crystal from her pocket.
<Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 1D><Delay 05>"We're gonna hammer yer arse till ya kiss the moons!"
<Waitpad> And, with that, she starts to whisper to the crystal.
<Waitpad>"Gange... Gange! Time to do yer thing!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> The crystal starts to glow.
<Waitpad>"Yes, I understand," it says in a soothing voice.
<Waitpad> The crystal begins to shimmer brighter and brighter, and once again, everything around me turns a bright white.
<Waitpad><24, 7F, 78><Delay 1E><24, FF, 3C><Delay 0F> When the light subsides, an enormous, ferocious beast has appeared in front of us!
<PlaySound 0F><Call 0x000D7D><Waitpad> The crystal glows brightly, commanding "Gigaweapon Paradise X! Go!!"
<Waitpad>"Paradise X!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> The one-eyed giant rises to its feet before us, smashing through the ceiling like a hot knife through butter!
<Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 22><Delay 04><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 22><Waitpad> The Gigaweapon forces us to hide underneath the doorway as the piles of rubble rain down all around us!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Whaddaya say now, bastard!?"
<Waitpad> However, eyeing our champion, Lynx's nonchalant smirk remains unchanged.
<Waitpad> Lynx grins, shouting "Mecha-Lynx! Go!!"
<Volume 20, 00><Waitpad>"Mecha-what?"
<Waitpad> The ground suddenly starts to tremble. Before us, the floor splits down the middle, opening up a huge hole!
<PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><Waitpad><PlaySound 15> A huge, mechanical representation of Lynx rises out of the floor, easily as tall as our own Gigaweapon!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 19><ClearText>"Th, that's Mecha-Lynx!?"
<Waitpad>"Yes... quite a beauty, don't you think?" Lynx taunts, chuckling.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03D47D>

<Label 0x03D097>
<ClearText>"Mecha-Lynx! Go!!"
<Waitpad>"Mecha-what!?"
<Waitpad> The ground suddenly starts to tremble. Before us, the floor splits down the middle, opening up a huge hole!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 15> A huge, mechanical representation of Lynx rises out of the floor, easily as tall as the ceiling!
<Waitpad>"Th, that's Mecha-Lynx!?"
<Waitpad> The monstrous creation rises to its feet before us, smashing through the ceiling like a hot knife through butter!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 19><ClearText> We're forced to hide underneath the doorway as the piles of rubble rain down all around us!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 22><Delay 04><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 22>"I never dreamed there was anything like this, hidden in Viper Manor..."
<waitpad>"I didn't know there was anything like this, anywhere!"
<delay 0a><choice 0x03D1E2> *Run! 
<Choice 0x03D1E2> *Fight! 
<Choice 0x03D276> *Think!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03D1E2>
<ClearText>"Wait," says Magil. "Kid, let me see the crystal in your pocket."
<Waitpad>"What's that got to do with anything?" Kid says reluctantly, digging through her pockets.
<waitpad> She finds the crystal and hands it over to Magil, who immediately starts whispering to it in a strange voice.
<Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 1D><Waitpad>"Gange...Gange... send us the Gigaweapon."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03D322>

<Label 0x03D276>
<ClearText> Pressed for time, I try to think of what we can do.
<Waitpad>"What can we do... what can we do... <delay 20>Wait, I've got it!"
<Waitpad>"Kid, let me see that crystal for a minute!"
<Waitpad>"What's that got to do with anything?" Kid says reluctantly, digging through her pockets.
<Waitpad> She finds the crystal and hands it over to me. I cradle it in my hands, and try to call on Gange for help.
<Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 1D><Waitpad>"Gange... please, help us... please, we need your help!"
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03D322>

<Label 0x03D322>
<ClearText><Volume 20, 00> Suddenly, the crystal begins to sparkle!
<Waitpad>"At your service, young Master."
<Waitpad> The crystal shimmers brighter and brighter, and once again, everything around me turns a bright white!
<Waitpad><24, 7F, 78><Delay 1E><24, FF, 3C><Delay 0F> When the light subsides, an enormous, ferocious beast has appeared in front of us!
<PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 0F><Call 0x000D7D><Waitpad>"Wha... what is that thing!?" Kid asks, astonished.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Well, umm... It's a cyclops monster that the Master Illusionist Gange summoned from inside your crystal."
<waitpad>"Huh!?"
<Waitpad>"The details are unimportant. For the time being, it will fight for us," Magil says.
<Waitpad>"Whoa... no way! Awesome!!"
<Waitpad>"Indeed," says the crystal. "From now on, this beast will be yours to command, answering to the name Gigaweapon Paradise X!!"
<Waitpad>"Paradise X!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x03D47D>

<Label 0x03D47D>
<ClearText><Volume 00, 00><Volume 20, B4><PlaySong 09> The two hulking gladiators face each other, ready to tear each other apart!
<waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 3C><delay 18><cleartext><Call 0x000C05><FadeIn 6C, 3C><Delay 02>

                     "Gigaweapon Paradise X

                                 versus

                      Steel Lord Mecha-Lynx!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Lord Lynx hops into the Mecha-Lynx combat robot, Frozen Flame in hand!
<Waitpad>"Test, test. 1 - 2 - 3.
<Waitpad> (Clears throat)
<waitpad> Gahahahaha! You stand no chance against my Mecha-Lynx, fools!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"We'll send that toy of yers to the scrap heap in no time, ya bastard!"
<Waitpad>"Beat the stuffin' outta him, Paradise X!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Let's go, Mecha-Lynx!!"
<waitpad><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><delay 04> The giant bodies crash into one another, and start to grapple!
<Waitpad><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 0E><Set 0x1524 to 00><Set 0x1525 to 00><Set 0x1526 to 00><Set 0x1517 to 00><Goto 0x03D61B>

<Label 0x03D61B>
<delay 0a><Add 01 to 0x1517><Choice 0x03D68B if 0x1524 is greater than 02> *"Punch!"<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x03D6A3 if 0x1525 is greater than 02> *"Kick!"<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x03D6BB if 0x1526 is greater than 02> *"Dodge!!"<delay 0a>
<Choice 0x03DCC7 if 0x1517 is less than 06> *"Your Light Beam, Paradise X!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03D68B>
<Add 01 to 0x1524><If 0x1524 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03D69F><Goto 0x03D6D3><Goto 0x03D6A3>

<Label 0x03D69F>
<Goto 0x03D757>

<Label 0x03D6A3>
<Add 01 to 0x1525><If 0x1525 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03D6B7><Goto 0x03D7BD><Goto 0x03D6BB>

<Label 0x03D6B7>
<Goto 0x03D8AE>

<Label 0x03D6BB>
<Add 01 to 0x1526><If 0x1526 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03D6CF><Goto 0x03D9AD><Goto 0x03D6D3>

<Label 0x03D6CF>
<Goto 0x03DAE0>

<Label 0x03D6D3>
<PlaySound 2A><ClearText> Paradise X sends out a heavy punch, just as I command!
<Waitpad> It slams into Mecha-Lynx's shoulder!
<PlaySound 19><Call 0x000D7D><waitpad> Explosions fly out from within the damaged robot!
<Waitpad> However, Paradise X's hand seems to have been bruised from hitting the metallic plating so hard!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03D61B>

<Label 0x03D757>
<PlaySound 2A><ClearText> Paradise X sends out a jab with its left fist!
<Waitpad> Mecha-Lynx raises its arm, blocking just in time!
<PlaySound 19><Call 0x000D7D><waitpad> Paradise X backs away, cradling its throbbing hand. We can't take much more abuse, punching the hard plating like that!
<Goto 0x03D61B>

<Label 0x03D7BD>
<PlaySound 2A><ClearText> Paradise X brings its leg up for a high kick!
<Waitpad> Clang!<PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D>
<waitpad><PlaySound 0F> Paradise X's leg bounces off the seemingly impenetrable plating! Its deafening cry of pain resounds out through the huge room, opposite the undaunted Mecha-Lynx!
<Waitpad>"Wahahahaha, how does it feel to go up against the metallic might of Mecha-Lynx!?"
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Damn, that thing is tough! Hang in there, Paradise X!"
<Goto 0x03D61B>

<Label 0x03D8AE>
<PlaySound 2A><ClearText> Paradise X instantly throws its left leg around for a sweep kick.
<Waitpad>"Good thinkin', Paradise X!"
<Waitpad> Clang!<PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D>
<waitpad> However, Mecha-Lynx remains upright! Paradise X hops away, its leg swollen and bruised!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"This thing's one tough ol' bugger, ain't it..."
<Goto 0x03D61B>

<Label 0x03D9AD>
<cleartext><PlaySound 11><Delay 05><PlaySound 10> Mecha-Lynx launches a rocket punch!
<Waitpad>"Look out! Get out of the way!!"
<Waitpad> Paradise X dodges at the last possible moment!
<Waitpad> However, the rocket punch does a U-turn in mid-air, heading back directly for our cyclops!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Watch out! It's coming back!!"
<waitpad> However, this time, we don't have time to react!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03> The rocket punch explodes into Paradise X's stomach!
<Waitpad>"Thatta boy, Mecha-Lynx!" we hear over the loudspeaker.
<Goto 0x03D61B>

<Label 0x03DAE0>
<Delay 03><PlaySound 19><Delay 03><PlaySound 19><Delay 05> Suddenly, Mecha-Lynx's chest opens up, and a missile emerges from within!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Watch out, Paradise X!"
<PlaySound 11><Delay 03><PlaySound 11><Delay 03><PlaySound 11><Delay 03> The missile is launched. However, it's aimed directly for -us-!
<Waitpad>"What the...?"
<waitpad>"Bollocks!"
<waitpad>"Run!"
<waitpad> This is the end for sure!
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySound 0A> Slaaaaaaaam!<PlaySound 0A> Slaaaaaaaam!
<PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 0A>"What's goin' on...?"
<Waitpad> Paradise X has stood in the missile's path, taking the devastating blow for us! However, this leaves our Gigaweapon reeling in pain!
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 0D><Delay 02><PlaySound 0F><Delay 03> Paradise X's screams are unbearable to to hear...
<Waitpad>"Lynx, you bastard!!"
<Goto 0x03D61B>

<Label 0x03DCC7>
<ClearText> I order the injured Gigaweapon to use its secret weapon.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Paradise X! Light Beam! Go!!"
<waitpad><TextSpeed 10>"Urrghhh..."
<call 0x007474><Waitpad> Oh no! It doesn't look like it can even shoot its beam!
<Waitpad> Looking down on our feeble attempt of an attack, Mecha-Lynx approaches for a cheap shot!
<waitpad> We're done for...
<Waitpad><ClearText> But then, Magil moves forward. "We have no choice, Paradise X!<Volume 00, 00><playsong 00><delay 0a> Meta Transfusion Infernoblast! Go!!"
<Waitpad> And with that, Paradise X lets loose a giant fireball from its mouth!
<Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 10><playsong 0e><Waitpad><ClearText> It strikes Mecha-Lynx full force, incinerating the metallic giant with a gigantic explosion!
<Call 0x000D7D><Waitpad><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03><PlaySound 0A><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 03> Mecha-Lynx collapses to the ground, exploding in chain reaction!
<Waitpad> Mecha-Lynx is no more!
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 10><Volume 40, 00><26, 38>"We did it!"
<Waitpad>"You did it, Magil!"
<Waitpad>"..."
<waitpad><cleartext>"Thank you, Paradise X..."
<Waitpad>"Yeah, thanks for the blood and sweat, big guy!"
<Waitpad>"Indeed, it was a valorous effort."
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Great job, mate. You can go back to yer home now," Kid says, holding out the crystal.
<waitpad> Paradise X begins to get brighter and brighter as the crystal shimmers. A white light engulfs the area, and when I can see again, the giant cyclops is gone.
<24, 7F, 78><Delay 1E><24, FF, 3C><Delay 0F><Waitpad><ClearText>"Well now, back to business. The Frozen Flame's gotta be somewhere around here, right?" Kid says, starting to walk over towards Mecha-Lynx's battered cockpit.
<Waitpad>"Do you think it's all right? It can't melt or anything, can it?" I ask Magil.
<Waitpad>"It will be fine. The Frozen Flame is far more than a normal jewel."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I found it! Hey, I found it!!"
<waitpad> We hurry over, finding Kid inside the wreckage of the cockpit.
<Waitpad> There, we see the scorched body of Lord Lynx, burnt pitch black by Paradise X's final attack, with the Frozen Flame tucked away in his pocket.
<Waitpad>"I found it, I found it!" she yells, jumping up and down with glee. She comes over and shows it to us -- a bright jewel about fist size, emanating a curious scarlet light.
<Waitpad><ClearText> At last, we have the Frozen Flame.
<Waitpad> Staring into its glimmering core, it seems to have a curious beauty that makes me think it's almost too beautiful for this world.
<Waitpad>"May I please see it for a moment, as well?" the crystal asks.
<Waitpad> Magil brings the crystal up to the Frozen Flame.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Oh my, this certainly is a magnificent specimen! I'm so glad I decided to <If 0x14F0 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x03E288>follow after you all!"
<Goto 0x03E29E>

<Label 0x03E288>
come along with you all!"

<Label 0x03E29E>
<Waitpad> The crystal's soft voice quivers more and more, the closer it comes to the Frozen Flame.
<Waitpad> But then, suddenly...
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><PlaySound 1C><Delay 03> Gange's crystal spontaneously shatters into a thousand tiny shards!
<Waitpad> After a few moments, only glittering dust remains in the palm of Magil's hand.
<Waitpad>"What the...!?"
<Waitpad>"Magil, what did ya do that for!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> But then, Gange's voice rings out. Not from the crystal, but from somewhere else...
<waitpad>"Do not blame Magil, my dear. He had nothing to do with it. Whenever I transfer myself to a new host, the former is forced to expunge itself as I withdrawal my life-force from it."
<Waitpad> ...It's coming from the Frozen Flame!
<Waitpad>"What the bloody hell...? What's goin' on!?"
<Waitpad>"For a Master Illusionist such as myself, my abilities change according to the stone I inhabit."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"So that I can gain even greater power, I search for greater and greater stones whenever I can. Seeing a band of adventurers like yourselves, I knew it was worth my while to tag along and see what luck you would bring me. And lo and behold, this is certainly the score of the century! This stone is magnificent... I can feel its power coursing through me! Would you like to come inside and see exactly what greatness you now possess?"
<Waitpad> Uhh...
<waitpad><cleartext>"Maybe later, Gange. I think we're still aching from that last one..."
<Waitpad>"Very well. But at any time, you are welcome to come witness the new, enhanced powers of the Gigaweapon!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid looks into the Frozen Flame.
<Waitpad>"The Flame won't die out or anything 'cuz of you bein' in there, will it?"
<Waitpad>"Absolutley not."
<Waitpad>"Well then, don't you ever dare leave this thing. I won't stand for you breakin' this one too!"
<Waitpad><FadeOut F0, F0><Delay 3C><ClearBG><ClearText><FadeIn F0, F0><Delay 32><Volume 40, FF><PlaySong 04><TextSpeed 04><indent 04x, 04y>     "So, what do we do now, Kid?"
<Delay 0A><FadeOut 90, 78><Delay 1E><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 78><Delay 19><indent 00x, 03y>"What do ya mean, what do we do now? There are tons of incredible jewels in the world still waitin' to be found, all eagerly lookin' forward to meetin' us! It would be mighty rude to ignore their invitations..."
<Delay 1E><FadeOut 90, 78><Delay 1E><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 78><Delay 19><Indent 00x, 04y> "Our days of treasure huntin' are hardly over, mate!"
<Delay 20><Volume f0, 00><delay 1c><FadeOut 90, 78><Delay 1E><ClearText><FadeIn 90, 00><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><Set 0x1499 to 01><Goto 0x00048C>

<Label 0x03E6F8>
<If 0x14EE doesn't equal 00 goto 0x03E777><Call 0x03FC0B><FadeOut 90, 00><FadeIn 86, 04><Delay 18>"Ohhhh... Gorba... Merkid... Zorander... forgive me..."
<delay 20><FadeOut 90, 3C><Delay 08><cleartext><FadeIn 90, 3C><Delay 08> A quiet, sobbing voice seems to be coming from the third cell on the right.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000AE2><FadeIn 50, 28><Goto 0x03E85D>

<Label 0x03E777>
<If 0x14C2 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x03E801><If 0x14EF doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03E79C><Call 0x0039CF><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000AE2><FadeIn 70, 28><Goto 0x03FB84><Goto 0x03E7FD>

<Label 0x03E79C>
<Call 0x03FC0B><Call 0x000AE2><FadeIn 70, 28><Delay 08>"Hey, old timer..."
<waitpad> Still caught up in a maze of thoughts, the old man just sits there, mumbling to himself in the dark...
<Waitpad>"Come on, let's let him be, for now at least. There's got to be some way to help him..."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03FC9E>

<Label 0x03E7FD>
<Goto 0x03E85D>

<Label 0x03E801>
<Call 0x03FC0B><Call 0x000AE2><FadeIn 70, 28><Delay 08>"Hey, old timer..."
<waitpad> Still caught up in a maze of thoughts, the old man just sits there, mumbling to himself in the dark...
<Waitpad>"Let's go... for now, at least."
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03FC9E>

<Label 0x03E85D>
<ClearText> I peer around the corner into the cell. In this dim, damp space, an old man sits in solitude, quietly mumbling to himself.
<Waitpad><FadeIn 30, 3C><Delay 14>"Hey, Mister..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Everyone.. and it was all because of me. Every last one of the Dragoons... Miss Riddel... even the General...! Forgive me... please..."
<Waitpad> Ignoring us, the old man continues to mutter, staring at the floor as he rocks back and forth.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey, can ya hear me?" Kid says, shaking the bars a little.
<Waitpad>"He will not hear a thing. He has constructed a wall around himself," Magil says.
<Waitpad>"What do you mean?" I ask Magil.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"A wall, used for shielding one's mind from reality. After being exposed to horrific events, tremendous amounts of pain and guilt has this effect on a person. He has made a safe world inside his own mind, where he retreats into. From there, he refuses to acknowledge anything he does not want to admit."
<Waitpad><ClearText> I notice that talking about this has given Magil a sort of sad, lost look in his face. Noticing my glance, he quickly turns away from me.
<Waitpad> Strange... Magil somehow reminded me of Kid just then.
<Waitpad> When Magil turns back, his usual blank expression has returned.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Does this make sense to you, Serge?" Magil asks.
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x03EB9E> *"Yeah, it does..."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x03EC25> *"Maybe if you gave me an easier explanation..."
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03EB9E>
<ClearText> Magil continues, looking at Kid and me. "We rarely see the walls we're trapped within. However, given time, some can come to understand and possibly even break free of these shortcomings... <delay 20>I...<delay 20>..."
 I wait for Magil to finish, but he doesn't end up saying anything. I'd ask, but... oh well.
<waitpad><cleartext> The mind... Revealing itself to itself...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03EDBD>

<Label 0x03EC25>
<ClearText>"Very well," Magil says, taking me aside. "For example, there was probably a time when Kid was very different than who she is now. She couldn't have been a thief her whole life, correct?"
<Waitpad> Hearing this, I look over to Kid. Somehow she looks different than I've ever seen her...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid convinced herself to be a thief. However, on the inside, she's not as rough as you think."
<Waitpad>"I see... so in other words, there's a normal man trapped somewhere inside all that mumbling."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Aw, come on, enough with all this jibber jabber!"
<Waitpad>"But Kid, we were just saying..."
<Waitpad><call 0x000da0> Thwap!
<Waitpad> I stare at Kid, rubbing the red mark left on my cheek.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03EDBD>

<Label 0x03EDBD>
<ClearText><fadeout 70, 50><delay 30><fadein 70, 30><delay 18>"We can't help this old geezer. Let's get back to work," Kid says, already heading for the door.
<Waitpad>"Wait, Kid," Magil calls out.
<Waitpad>"Somehow or another, we may yet find a way into this man's mind."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What good'll that do?"
<Waitpad>"Didn't you hear what he was talking about? The Dragoons, Riddel, General Viper..."
<Waitpad>"Aw, he's prolly just into old folklore or somethin'..." Kid says, returning to the door.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"I have a feeling his knowledge will prove to be useful. Certainly he has heard something of importance concerning our situation," Magil says.
<waitpad><ClearText>"Well, I guess we oughta help the old bloke out with his troubles while we're here. What do ya say we do?" Kid asks.
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x03F012> *"Somehow, we have to put an end to this..."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x03F11D> *Say nothing, confused.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03F012>
<ClearText>"Huh!?" Kid says, looking up. "You got a problem with me!?"
<Waitpad>"Eh!? N, no... that's not what I meant..."
<Waitpad> But before I can explain, Kid's fist suddenly flies into my face!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 14><Delay 08> Narrowly avoiding the blow, I look up to see Magil starting to speak again.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03F20F>

<Label 0x03F11D>
<ClearText> Thinking through everything that's been said already, I really have no idea about how to get anywhere with him.
<Waitpad>"Well somebody better think of somethin' soon!" Kid says.
<Waitpad><If 0x14EF doesn't equal 01 goto 0x03F20B><Goto 0x03F381>

<Label 0x03F207>
<Goto 0x03F20F>

<Label 0x03F20B>
<Goto 0x03F20F>

<Label 0x03F20F>
<ClearText>"We must find a way to reach beyond his wall. For every locked door, there exists a key, so to speak. We will never make any progress with this man until we know what lies in his past."
<Waitpad>"What are you talkin' about, a key?" Kid asks.
<Waitpad>"I do not know either," Magil answers.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"However, there is at least one person in Viper Manor who does."
<Waitpad>"<textspeed 08>...<delay 10><call 0x007474>Riddel!"
<Waitpad>"Indeed."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Set 0x14BB to 01><Set 0x14EE to 01><Goto 0x03FC9E>

<Label 0x03F381>
<ClearText>"We must find a way to reach beyond his wall. For every locked door, there exists a key, so to speak. We will never make any progress without knowing what lies in his past."
<Waitpad> Saying this, Magil walks forward and grips two of the cell's iron bars.
<Waitpad> Straining with both hands, after a few moments, the bars bend apart like taffy!
<Waitpad>

<Label 0x03F427>
<ClearText> Magil enters first through the newly-created opening.
<waitpad> Kid follows, kneeling down before the mumbling old man. Putting her hands on the old man's shoulders, Kid tries to look into his eyes, but he continues to stare at the floor. Frustrated, she starts to shout at him, shaking him vigorously. "C'mon, old fella! Get up!!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> The old man's head shakes back and forth like a ragdoll's, but his eyes remain averted.
<delay 0a><choice 0x03F572> *Try to stop Kid. 
<Choice 0x03F70E> *Ask Magil if what she's doing is right.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x03F572>
<ClearText> I come between Kid and the old man. Kid looks at me with straightforward eyes. "Don't get in the way, Serge."
<Waitpad>"Kid... look at him, I say. "Being agitated is the last thing he needs right now."
<Waitpad>"Hrmph! After I'm done with 'im, this old geezer's gonna be brimmin' with old stories!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> As Kid shifts her weight onto her other knee, suddenly the Acacian ring falls out of her pocket. It falls down to the ground, bouncing once, twice, three times...
<Waitpad><ClearText> ...And comes to a stop right before the old man's eyes.
<Waitpad> Trying to get Kid to calm down, I signal for her to look over to the man, who's now smiling faintly...
<Waitpad>"The ring..." he says in a voice so quiet it's barely audible.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x03F830>

<Label 0x03F70E>
<ClearText>"Do not worry," Magil says. "This may also prove to be helpful."
<Waitpad>"But is it right to force him out of his wall for our own sake?"
<Waitpad>"The fate of the Acacia Dragoons has been woven into our own," Magil answers simply.
<waitpad> And with that, just as Magil says the word `Acacia', a glimmer streaks into the old man's eyes. He looks up quickly, apparently waiting for something.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Oh man, he's been hearing us talk the entire time! Quick, Kid, show him the ring!"
<waitpad> Kid takes the ring from her pocket and shows it to the man.
<waitpad>"The ring..." he says in a voice so quiet it's barely audible.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x03F830>

<Label 0x03F830>
<ClearText><delay 08> However, his eyes quickly return to their murky state. "Finally, my allies... you have returned. Because of me, the Frozen Flame was seized, and I have desecrated the name of the Acacia Dragoons. I am the only one left... but, you have returned..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Ah, Merkid, Zorander... now that we are once again reunited, let us all head back to Staik Lake..."
<Waitpad>"Jeez! Listen, Mister! The Frozen Flame, where is it!? Any small hint will help! Come on!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Frozen... Flame...?" the old man asks. A warm smile streaks across his face.
<Waitpad>"Ah... my dear Miss Riddel... I have not seen you in quite some time. Surely you have not forgotten the secret entranceway?"
<waitpad><cleartext>"Uhh, yeah... ya think you could you tell me about that again, gramps?" Kid asks, trying to sound as ladylike as possible.
<Waitpad>"In the ballroom... third candlestick on the left..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid hugs the old man, ecstatic. And so, he resumes his mumbling, in that distant, shuddering voice...
<Waitpad>"Please forgive me, for your father... I beg you, Riddel. The Dragoons..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It's high time for you to bust on outta here, old man," Kid says, pointing to the bent iron bars. However, he once again refuses to look up.
<Waitpad>"Come on... we've done all we can do here. He's got to walk through these bars himself."
<Waitpad>"Thanks, old timer..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Set 0x14C2 to 01><FadeOut 70, 78><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00F839>

<Label 0x03FB84>
<ClearText> We return to the old man. Magil walks up to the cell and grasps the iron bars. He positions his feet, and starts to pull away at the bars with an incredible intensity.
<waitpad> After a moment, the bars start to bend like taffy!
<Waitpad><Goto 0x03F427>

<Label 0x03FC0B>
<ClearText><If 0x14CC doesn't equal 00 goto 0x03FC1C><Set 0x14CC to 01><Goto 0x03FC20>

<Label 0x03FC1C>
<Call 0x0039CF>

<Label 0x03FC20>
<Call 0x000DB7><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 0B><Delay 0F><0A, 10><FadeIn 70, 1E><Volume 20, FF><Delay 0F> We find ourselves in a long hallway, flanked on both sides by rows of countless jail cells. The cold iron bars stretch on in front of us endlessly...
<Waitpad> One...<FadeOut 70, 1E><Delay 0A><FadeIn 70, 1E> Two...
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 1E><Delay 0A><ClearText><Return>

<Label 0x03FC9E>
<FadeOut 70, 1E><ClearBG><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7> Leaving the endless rows of cells behind, we head back to the passageway.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 0F><Goto 0x00F839>

<Label 0x03FCC5>
 This has to be the room Riddel was talking about. The chilly dampness of this place is giving me goose bumps...
<Waitpad> Looking around, I wonder what in the world could possibly be in this dreadful room that has the power to bring that old man back to reality.
<Waitpad> Kid proceeds to the middle of the room, while I examine the walls and floor.
<Waitpad><ClearText> The stone floor is filled with countless scratches, covered by splotches of some sort of dry, dark ink.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hey Magil, would you come over here please? Something is carved into the wall here, I think it's an inscription of some kind..."
<Waitpad> Magil kneels down in front of the wall and examines the writing. Looking closer at it, it appears to be written in blood.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Indeed. This text has been worn down with age. Most of it is unreadable."
<Waitpad> Here's what I can make out:
<delay 0a>
                 ...won't la...   mu... onger... 
            ...cia Dragoons....  nee...he encha... 
                swor... order to... ...proof...
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 00><PlaySound 27><Delay 0F><PlaySound 34><Delay 0F> Without any warning, the door slams shut! We stand up, taken by surprise!
<Waitpad><PlaySong 05> A low rumbling sound starts to fill the room.
<Waitpad>"What's happening!?" Kid shouts, looking around swiftly.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 2A><PlaySound 2A><Delay 0F>"Wait, what's that above us!?"
<Waitpad><27, 00><Call 0x000ADF><Delay 05><Call 0x000C1E><Delay 1E><ClearText><Set 0x14A9 to 01><PlaySound 18><0E, 02, 12, 41><FadeOut F0, 1E><Delay 0F><0E, 03, 05, 06><PlaySound 00><Delay 05><Call 0x000AD9><FadeIn F0, 14>"It's a trap!!"
<Waitpad>"You think Riddel coulda told us somethin about this, at least!!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> As the ceiling rapidly descends lower and lower, I kneel down, desperately looking for a way out!
<Waitpad> Then, Kid turns to me and calls, "The sword...! Use the Einlanzer!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"But, how...!?"
<Delay 08><Set 0x14C8 to 01><Goto 0x00A2F8 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x04062F> *Thrust the sword into the ceiling! 
<Choice 0x04072E> *Thrust the sword into the floor! 
<Choice 0x0403FA> *Thrust the sword into Kid!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0400A3>
<Call 0x0039CF><Call 0x000AD9><FadeIn 70, 3C><ClearText> I look up, remembering the deadly ceiling. I'm definitely not going to repeat the mistake of overstaying my welcome here, especially after hearing what Riddel had to say.
<Waitpad> Somewhere inside this room, there has to be something that will bring that old man back... but what?
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Just as I thought," Magil says dryly, examining the cracks in the floor.
<Waitpad> Kid and I walk over, kneeling down where he's at.
<Waitpad> Between the of cracks between the floor's stones, there's a thick, smelly, butter-like substance that's been jammed into it, among the stains of blood.
<Waitpad><Cleartext><PlaySong 00><PlaySound 27><Delay 0F><PlaySound 34><Delay 0F><PlaySong 05> Without warning, the door suddenly slams shut!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 2A><PlaySound 2A><Delay 0F>"It's started again!"
<Waitpad>"Okay, what do we do!?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><27, 00><Call 0x000ADF><Delay 03><Call 0x000C1E><Delay 1E><ClearText><PlaySound 18><0E, 02, 12, 41><FadeOut F0, 1E><Delay 0F><0E, 03, 05, 06><PlaySound 00><Delay 05><Call 0x000AD9><FadeIn F0, 14>"We hafta use the sword somehow!!" Kid yells, her voice almost inaudible thanks to the ceiling's deafening
screeching.
<Waitpad>"But how...!?"
<Delay 0a><Set 0x14C8 to 01><Goto 0x00A2F8 after 0x0168ms><Choice 0x04062F> *Thrust the sword into the ceiling! 
<Choice 0x04072E> *Thrust the sword into the floor! 
<Choice 0x0403FA> *Thrust the sword into Kid!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0403FA>
<ClearText> Thinking of all the painful resentments she's ever caused, I raise the heavy sword over my head, and start towards Kid!
<waitpad> She and Magil exchange glances, and suddenly flank me from both sides!
<Call 0x000DA0><Delay 02><Call 0x000DA0><Delay 0F><Waitpad> I hit the wall in pain, having received a one-two Double Thief Punch! I drop the sword, dazed.
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 0a><Subtract 14 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0404B6><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x0404B6>
<Add 0A to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x0404C6><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x0404C6>
"You okay, mate?" Kid asks, slapping me back into consciousness.
<waitpad>"Apparently you took in some noxious gas just now. You were starting to behave rather oddly," Magil says.
<Waitpad>"Anyhow, c'mon, mate! We still got this trap to worry about!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> Still unsteady on my feet, I take the sword back into my hands.
<Delay 0a><Goto 0x00A2F8 after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x04062F> *Thrust the sword into the ceiling! 
<Choice 0x04072E> *Thrust the sword into the floor! 
<Choice 0x0403FA> *Thrust the sword into Kid!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x04062F>
<ClearText>"Okay! Let's smash the ceiling!" I shout, swinging the sword over my head!
<waitpad> The wooden structure shatters from the huge sword's impact! A number of rusty blades are now in free-fall, headed straight for us!!
<waitpad> I try to protect myself, but the dozens of tiny razor sharp blades painfully tear into me!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><ClearText><Set 0x1514 to 00><Goto 0x01499B>

<Label 0x0406B5>
"Urrrhhh!!"
<waitpad> Frantically gripping the sword, I rise to my feet!
<Delay 08><Goto 0x00A2F8 after 0x012Cms><Choice 0x04062F> *Thrust the sword into the ceiling! 
<Choice 0x04072E> *Thrust the sword into the floor! 
<Choice 0x0403FA> *Thrust the sword into Kid!
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x04072E>
<ClearText> With as much power as I can muster, I lift the heavy sword up and plunge it down into a crack in the center of the floor!
<PlaySong 00><Call 0x000D89><Waitpad><ClearText> A huge jolt runs through the room! Bolts of light scatter in all four directions from the sword, running along the floor, then up the walls!
<PlaySound 22><Call 0x000D7D><24, 48, 0A><24, 78, 1E><Delay 02><24, F8, 0A><24, C8, 28><Waitpad> Reaching the ceiling, the deadly contraption groans, and then comes to a halt!
<Waitpad><27, 01><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F> Exhausted and relieved, I collapse to the floor.
<waitpad><Cleartext><fadeout 70, 50><delay 30><fadein 70, 3C><delay 18> After a minute, I catch my breath and open my eyes.
<waitpad> Strange... now that I take another look at the inscription we found earlier, there's a certain stone just beside it that doesn't seem to have any cement around it...
<Waitpad> We walk over to it. Kid tugs on it, and finds that it's loose.
<waitpad><cleartext> Removing the heavy stone, a dim glistening light can be seen from far within the hole. Kid reaches in, and carefully removes the shimmering object.
<Waitpad><ClearText> A beautifully decorated gold ring sits in the palm of her hand! It's adorned with a slender set of leaves, like those of a fern, decorated with five small rubies around it.
<Waitpad>"The Acacian coat of arms," Magil says.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid tries the ring on, but strangely enough, it doesn't seem to fit on any of her fingers.
<Waitpad><Set 0x14EF to 01>"This ring must mean something to the old man. We could use it to break through his wall, couldn't we?" I excitedly ask Magil, already knowing the answer.
<Waitpad> He nods in silence. Yeah, this has to be it!
<waitpad> Abandoning the Einlanzer, now proudly standing upright like a beacon of light amidst this dismal room, we hurry out of the torture chamber, hopefully never to return again.
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 50, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x0057DA>

<Label 0x040A52>
<FadeOut 70, 14><ClearText><ClearBG><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F> While resting on a wall to tend to my wounds, I look up and notice something out of the ordinary.
<waitpad>"Hey, was this here before...?"
<Waitpad> Carved into the wall, a large marble sculpture of an intimidating face stares down at us coldly.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000C98><FadeIn 6A, 28><Delay 20> It looks as though it's been sculpted by a fine artisan. It's very detailed -- its features are beautifully etched and barely eroded.
<Waitpad>"It's a Mouth of Truth," Magil says.
<waitpad>"A what?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"A Mouth of Truth. The legend is that if you are given to lying, a Mouth of Truth will know it if you put your hands into its mouth."
<waitpad>"Oh, what a hard idea," Kid says, rolling her eyes.
<waitpad>"Let's see you do it," I say.
<waitpad> Kid looks up worried, but seeing Magil looking at her, feels a resolve and tentatively puts her hands in the mouth.
<Waitpad><Cleartext> However, after a few seconds, nothing seems to be happening.
<waitpad>"Hey, whaddaya know, guess I passed the test!"
<Waitpad> Hmm... that can't be all there is to it...
<waitpad><Cleartext> Ah! I know.
<Waitpad>"Kid, how many pounds do you weigh?"
<waitpad>"A hundred and four! Err..."
<waitpad> Kid suddenly takes on a worried look, but before she can remove her hands, the marble set of teeth clamps down onto her wrists!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><cleartext>"Hey, ya stupid face! What's goin' on!?"
<Waitpad> The white marble teeth gnaw from side to side, becoming stained with red!
<Call 0x000DA0><Waitpad><ClearText>"Dammit, lemme go!!"
<Waitpad> Magil calmly offers an explanation from behind us.
<waitpad>"Without saying something truthful to the best of one's ability, a Mouth of Truth will never let go."
<Waitpad><ClearText> Not hearing him at all, Kid kicks the stone face in a fit of anger.
<Call 0x000D89><Waitpad>"Lemme go, ya stupid face! I swear I'm gonna knock yer teeth in!!"
<Waitpad><24, 7F, 1E><Delay 0D><PlaySound 1C><24, FF, 14><Delay 0A> Then, as swiftly as it closed, the mouth opens!
<Waitpad><Cleartext> I crouch down to Kid, who's kneeling on the floor, rubbing her wrists.
<Waitpad>"Wow, I guess you weren't lying about knocking its teeth in..."
<Waitpad>"'Course not, mate... I showed 'im good. Bloody stone face..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><fadeout 70, 50><delay 30><fadein 6a, 50><delay 28>"You didn't put anything inside the mouth, did you, Kid?" Magil asks.
<Waitpad>"What're ya talkin' about? No...!"
<waitpad> I walk over beside Magil and peer into the mouth. There, behind its teeth, is a large pink tongue. I think there's some sort of an indentation in it, but I can't be sure -- it's really far back in there.
<Waitpad>"Maybe it wants us to put something on its tongue... maybe that's the real test."
<waitpad><ClearText> Kid begins taking out her things. From in her pockets, under her shoes, and out of her hair, she gathers all sorts of personal effects. She stretches the pile of trinkets held in her hands out to me, smiling innocently.
<Waitpad><ClearText> Guess it's my turn to face the test. As long as Kid's safe, I'm happy, I suppose.
<Waitpad> Wondering what the Mouth of Truth could possibly want, I reach for one of her accessories...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x041055>
<FadeOut 70, 14><ClearBG><ClearText><PlaySong 0F><Call 0x000C98><FadeIn 6A, 28>"Maybe there's somethin' we didn't try before," Kid says, taking out her personal effects and holding them out at me.
<Waitpad>"Me again...?"
<Waitpad> Kid smiles at me innocently. Amidst my hesitation, I reach for one of her accessories...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x0410CA>
<ClearText><TextSpeed 00><Choice 0x0411DF> *Try using the small silver mirror.
<Choice 0x0412E4> *Try using the file.
<Choice 0x0414CF> *Try using the centipede.
<Choice 0x0417E6> *Try using the lipstick.
<Choice 0x0419E5> *Try using the special raisins.
<Choice 0x041B31> *Try using the fishing line.
<Choice 0x041E1C> *Try using a huge explosion.
<Choice 0x042030> *Try using the leather scroll.
<If 0x14B6 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0411CB><If 0x14DC doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0411AA><Choice 0x0422AA> *Give up.
<Goto 0x0411C7>

<Label 0x0411AA>
<Choice 0x0423D3> *Try using the hand-shaped plate.


<Label 0x0411C7>
<Goto 0x0411DE>

<Label 0x0411CB>
<Choice 0x0422AA> *Give up.


<Label 0x0411DE>
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0411DF>
<ClearText><call 0x007474><If 0x14D8 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0411EE><Goto 0x04236D>

<Label 0x0411EE>
 I take the small silver mirror into my hands and place it into the huge marble mouth.
<waitpad>"Well, no sign of tooth decay here..."
<Waitpad><ClearText> The mouth doesn't budge an inch. Whatever's supposed to happen, isn't happening...
<Waitpad> Kid takes the mirror from me, and fixes her hair a little. Oh man, she looks so cute when she does that...
<Waitpad>"We should test others before we stop," Magil advises.
<Waitpad><Set 0x14D8 to 01><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x0412E4>
<ClearText><call 0x007474><If 0x14D9 doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0412F3><Goto 0x04236D>

<Label 0x0412F3>
 I take the file and place it into the marmoreal Mouth of Truth. It doesn't seem to fit on the tongue. But then...
<Waitpad> Dammit! It dropped down the back of its throat!
<Waitpad>"Aaarrghhhh! What'd ya have to go and do that for?!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Nail files don't grow on trees, Serge! Don't ya know how important one of those things is to a lady!?"
<Waitpad> Whoa.. So now I see her true colors...
<waitpad><Call 0x000DA0><Subtract 08 from 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x0413F1><Set 0x1514 to 04>

<Label 0x0413F1>
"What was that for?" I ask, reeling back from her slap.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"That's the last one of my things you'll be gettin' yer hands on!"
<Waitpad>"Come on, Kid... it won't happen again, I promise."
<Waitpad>"Hrmf... arrite, I guess," Kid says, showing me the rest of her trinkets. "I'm only doin' this for the Flame..."
<Waitpad><Set 0x14D9 to 01><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x0414CF>
<ClearText><call 0x007474><If 0x14DB doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0415B8>"A centipede? You were carrying around a centipede with you this entire time!?"
<waitpad>"Perhaps it's a pet...?"
<Waitpad>"It's only a toy, silly."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Oh, okay. But still..."
<Waitpad>"It's for scarin' fools like you! And see, it worked! Heh, heh..."
<Waitpad> Boy, the things I'm learning about Kid these days...
<Waitpad><ClearText>

<Label 0x0415B8>
 Anyhow, I take her rubber centipede and place it into the Mouth of Truth's mouth.
<waitpad> Dammit, it's too slippery! I accidentally drop it down its throat!
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Serge!! Why do ya keep losin' my stuff!?"
<Waitpad>"I can still reach it, I think. It didn't go that far down," I say, putting my whole arm inside. Goose bumps run up my body as I realize this thing could bite off my entire arm right now...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Urrh.... hold on..."
<waitpad>"Come on, Serge... just a little more!"
<Waitpad><delay 15>"Aha! Got it!"
<Waitpad><If 0x14DB doesn't equal 00 goto 0x04178A>"I hope this thing is important to you..."
<Waitpad>"Yeah, losing it would be a drag," Kid answers. I wipe the sweat off my brow, letting out a deep sigh.
<Waitpad><ClearText>

<Label 0x04178A>
"Well, that didn't seem to work, either. What else do you have?"
<Waitpad> We could be here all night, at this rate...
<Waitpad><Set 0x14DB to 01><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x0417E6>
<ClearText><call 0x007474><goto 0x0417F5>

<Label 0x0417F5>
 I take the lipstick and smear some of it on the Mouth of Truth's marble lips.
<Waitpad>"Hey! My lipstick!!"
<waitpad> Kid explodes at the mere sight of my wasting the lipstick. It's a shame, I thought I did a very good job of prettying the marble face up.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"That's not what it's used for!!"
<Waitpad>"It's just strange for you to have something like this with you in the first place, Kid..."
<Waitpad>"What, now yer sayin' it's weird for me to own
cosmetics?"
<Waitpad> Gulp!
<waitpad>"Uh... no! Not really..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"You better buy me a new one once we get outta here!"
<Waitpad>"All right, I'll owe it to you," I answer apologetically. She won't be letting me forget about this one very easily, I can tell...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x0419E5>
<ClearText><call 0x007474><If 0x14DA doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0419E6><Goto 0x04236D>

<Label 0x0419E6>
<ClearText><call 0x007474> I take some of Kid's special raisins out of their cloth bag and place them in the giant mouth.
<Waitpad> Munch... munch...
<waitpad> It seems to be eating them.
<Waitpad>"Hey, stop, ya dumb rock head! Those are emergency
rations!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid snatches the pouch back from me. Looking at the single morsel I have left in my hand, I find myself wondering what these so-called emergency rations taste like...
<Waitpad><Set 0x14DA to 01><24, 45, 1E><Delay 08> Mmmmm.... tasty.
<Waitpad><24, C5, 0A><Delay 05><Add 0A to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x041ABD><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x041ABD>
"Serge! Now yer eatin' em too!? I'm not gonna have any left for real emergencies!!" Kid says, staring at me angrily.
<Waitpad> Yeah, right, I say to myself. I've never seen her offer any of them to me when I needed them...
<waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x041B31>
<ClearText><call 0x007474> I take the thin silk thread into my hand and hang it down into the huge, marble mouth.
<Waitpad>"That's a silk fishing line, taken from a royal silkworm. Be careful with it."
<Waitpad><ClearText> I can feel it hook on to something, as the thread gives a bit of a tug. Looking in, it appears to be some sort of paper.
<Waitpad>"All right! We're on to somethin' for sure!" Kid says, trying to look inside.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Random 0x1519><AND 0x1519 with 07><If 0x1519 is greater than 03 goto 0x041D7C> She tilts her head forward, trying to see in better.
<Waitpad> But then, the Mouth of Truth stretches out its tongue!
<waitpad> Slurrrp!
<Waitpad>"Aaahhh! What the heck!?"
<Waitpad> Burrrrp!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Where the tongue licked us, we start to feel a warmth, which gradually spreads over our bodies!
<Waitpad><24, 26, 28><Delay 0D><PlaySound 24><24, A6, 14><Delay 0D> Whoa... we're being healed!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Add 23 to 0x1514><If 0x1514 is less than 78 goto 0x041D78><Set 0x1514 to 78>

<Label 0x041D78>
<Goto 0x041DE6>

<Label 0x041D7C>
 Oh, no! I lost the thread down its throat...
<Waitpad> I silently turn towards Kid, shrugging my shoulders with a red face.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89><Call 0x000D89>"You idiot!!"
<waitpad> Like an electric shock, she slaps me across the face!
<waitpad><cleartext> Terrified, I lunge back into the mouth. Reaching in as far as I can, I feel the thread after a moment or two! I carefully pull it back out, relieved.
<waitpad> The object it has latched onto is nowhere in sight, however.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89>

<Label 0x041DE6>
 Leaning against the wall, Magil somberly asks us, "What now?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x041E1C>
<ClearText><call 0x007474> I take a ball of gunpowder out of Kid's hand, and place it within the huge stone mouth...
<Waitpad> However, nothing happens.
<Waitpad>"Do it, Serge!" Kid says, putting some matches in my hand.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I don't know about this...
<Waitpad>"Do it."
<waitpad> I don't know, really...
<waitpad> Suddenly, I hear the sound of a fuse burning! Kid's already lit the bomb! I quickly run for cover in a far corner!
<waitpad><cleartext><PlaySound 10><Call 0x000D7D><Call 0x000D7D><24, 1F, 28><Delay 0D><24, 9F, 14><Delay 0A><PlaySound 0A>
<delay 20><ClearText> As the smoke clears, I start to see the hideous remains of the cracked Mouth of Truth.
<waitpad> From beside me, I watch Kid dust herself off and walk over to the mutilated stone face with yet another bomb!
<Waitpad>"Come on, Kid. We don't need to completely demolish it..."
<Waitpad>"Aw, It ain't dangerous, mate! It's just a little fire!"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Kid glances over at my face. I'm practically begging her to stop.
<waitpad>"All right already! Ya never wanna have any fun," Kid says, kicking some dirt around.
<waitpad>"Well, what next?"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x042030>
<ClearText><call 0x007474> I take the worn leather scroll into my hands and examine it.
<Waitpad>"Heh, what's this? Secret Ninja training techniques?" I ask sarcastically.
<waitpad> Kid smiles lazily, rolling her eyes.
<Waitpad> I unfasten the tie and open up the scroll.
<Waitpad>"Oh, wow..."
<waitpad><ClearText> Strange symbols are written at length on the scroll. A lot has been written here; it appears this took some time to write. Judging by my face that this is something of importance, Kid walks over and takes a look.
<Waitpad>"Oh, It's an Imperial code chart primer. It's used for transmitting information through enemy lines."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Really? I can't read any of it. You've got to show us how to use this thing."
<Waitpad>"What would I wanna do that for? It would ruin the
secrecy!" she says, walking off alone.
<Waitpad> Maybe she can't read it either...
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Okay, well what are we gonna do about this big ol' hunk of rock?" Kid asks hastily.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x0422AA>
<ClearText><call 0x007474> Bewildered, I tell Kid to put her stuff away. Something gives me the feeling that none of these things are what it wants...
<Waitpad>"There has to be something in the mansion that fits, we probably just haven't found it yet. We've got to keep our eyes peeled..."
<Waitpad><Set 0x14D8 to 00><Set 0x14D9 to 00><Set 0x14DB to 00><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00F0A0>

<Label 0x04236D>
<ClearText><call 0x007474>"No way! Yer not gettin' yer mitts on that again!" Kid says, pulling her hands away from me.
<Waitpad> Oh well... maybe she'll lend me something else.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0410CA>

<Label 0x0423D3>
<ClearText><call 0x007474><If 0x14AC doesn't equal 01 goto 0x0423E2><Goto 0x04272B>

<Label 0x0423E2>
 I take the hand-shaped plate. Its strange, contorted symbols give me a headache just by looking at them. Nervously, I reach in and place it onto the tongue...
<Waitpad><ClearText> It's a perfect fit!
<waitpad> Sliding it into place, I quickly remove my hand and back away a few steps. The huge white eyes start moving around slowly, and a slight vibration can be felt from behind the wall.
<volume ff, ff><playsound 18><waitpad> Something's happening... something big. I just wish I knew whether it's good or bad.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Delay 0A> An odd sound escapes from the Mouth of Truth as its eyes continue to roll.
<waitpad> I want to make a run for it. However, I look over and see the ever-fearless expression in Kid's eyes, and stay my ground.
<waitpad>"Uh... um...."
<Waitpad><playsound 00><ClearText> Suddenly, the marble sculpture stops moving. I stare at it, wondering what's going on.
<Waitpad> Then, its tongue starts to roll around inside its mouth, while its eyes tilt further and further upwards until its pupils disappear underneath its eyelids.
<Waitpad><PlaySong 16> We hear the plate sliding down its throat, vanishing into the deep, dark depths of the mansion!
<Waitpad>"Wh, what's happening?"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Apparently a pious being such as this may roll its eyes from time to time."
<Waitpad> The simple fact that Magil tried to make a joke just there makes me stop and forget where I am for a second.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"All that's gonna happen is yer gonna lose another one of my things. I coulda got a lot of cash for that," Kid says regrettably.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 0B><Call 0x000D83><Delay 0A> Suddenly, over by the atrium, we start to hear some sort of a latch being opened. And then, moments later, the sound of water draining echoes throughout the corridor!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySound 09> Taking a few steps towards the atrium, I see the red water has formed into a whirlpool and is flowing down into the pond. The piranhas are being washed away!
<Waitpad><ClearText><volume a0, 00>"What'sa matter, lil fishies? Not enough water? Aw... playtime's over, ya nasty buggers."
<Waitpad>"Come on, I'm dying to see what's past that fountain!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 28><ClearBG><PlaySound 00><volume 02, ff><Set 0x14B7 to 01><Goto 0x00F266>

<Label 0x04272B>
<ClearText><call 0x007474> I stare at the hand-shaped plate. Its strange, contorted symbols give me a headache just trying to read them.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 02>"Ahhh!"
<waitpad> Just then, a dark figure runs up to me, and before I can even think of reacting, it steals the plate right out of my hands!
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySong 05><FadeOut 70, 00><Call 0x000B6E><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 14>"Dammit! Where'd that thing go?" 
<waitpad>"There!" Kid says, pointing towards the far corner. It's some sort of blue demon...
<Waitpad> We start to corner the demon off, but it quickly bolts for the stairs.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 0A><Call 0x000AEE><FadeIn 70, 0A>"Dammit! Come on!!"
<Waitpad> Frantically chasing after the demon, Kid leaps up the stairs with unbelievable speed and energy.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F><FadeOut 70, 0A><ClearBG><FadeIn 70, 0A>"Bollocks! Lost 'im!" Kid curses.
<Waitpad>"Where could he have gone... which way?"
<Waitpad><Set 0x14DC to 01><Choice 0x00A657><If 0x14AE doesn't equal 00 goto 0x0428CE> *Try checking the left path. 
<Goto 0x0428E2>

<Label 0x0428CE>
 *Go left, towards the <if 0x149D doesn't equal 01 goto 0x428CF>cathedral. 
<goto 0x0428E2>

<label 0x0428CF> 
 ballroom. 
<goto 0x0428E2>

<Label 0x0428E2>
<Choice 0x00DC89> *Go right, heading towards the terrace. 
<Choice 0x00A739><If 0x14AA doesn't equal 00 goto 0x04291B> *Check up ahead. 
<Goto 0x042933>

<Label 0x04291B>
 *Check up ahead, near the study. 


<Label 0x042933>
<Choice 0x00A593> *Head back down the stairs.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x042940>
<ClearText>"Heh, heh, heh... just as I suspected. I had a feeling you would come," the old woman cackles, quivering.
<Waitpad><ClearText> ...?
<waitpad> Kid and I glance at one another, wonder if she's just playing with us, or not...
<Waitpad>"What're ya talkin' about?"
<Waitpad>"Oh, it's already been four or five years, I would gather. Master Lynx had sent for a certain young lady... a very special young lady, you might say."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"This woman, owner of powerful mental and magical abilities, was the object of Master Lynx's attention for quite some time..."
<Waitpad> Magil turns his head away, hastily interrupting the old lady's speech.
<waitpad>"Quiet!" he barks.
<Waitpad>"Ah, I apologize. How easily I forget the situation between you two..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Which two? Who are you talking about?"
<waitpad>"Oh, I won't bore you with details, young man..."
<waitpad>"But..."
<Waitpad><cleartext><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F>"Ah, you seem to have a bit of a scrape, there. Won't you let me have a look at it?"
<Waitpad> I'm still wondering whether to be frightened or comforted of this old lady...
<delay 0a><Choice 0x004C3E> *"Oh, yes, please."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x004EF1> *"No, thank you."
<delay 0a><Choice 0x00509C> *"What should I do, Kid?"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x042B93>
<ClearText><27, 00><Call 0x0039F4><Delay 28>"Great... nothin' here." Kid sighs as we enter the spacious hall.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Call 0x000A89><FadeIn 70, 1E><24, 14, 14><Delay 0A> A countless number of candles spectacularly illuminate this huge ballroom. An unsettling mood hangs in the air as we walk through it, however. We're greeted with dozens of high-class portraits, hung high on both sides of the hall.
<Waitpad> A huge, blood-red rose has been left on the floor before us.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Wonder who left this here..."
<Waitpad><PlaySound 03><Delay 05><24, 94, 00><Call 0x003A00> Behind us, the door suddenly slams shut!
<Waitpad><ClearText><FadeOut 70, 0A><Delay 03><ClearBG><Call 0x000A89><24, 14, 14><FadeIn 70, 1E><Delay 0A> As we turn around, I suddenly notice dozens of translucent figures materializing out of thin air, right before our eyes! Oblivious to us, the couples waltz around the hall in their decaying tuxedoes and tattered dresses...
<waitpad>"What kind of trick is this!?" Kid flares up, enraged.
<Waitpad> Magil touches Kid's shoulder. "They're ghosts," he whispers.
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Gh... ghosts!?"
<waitpad> Hearing this, they suddenly turn towards us, staring at us with their pale, faint eyes.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000DB7><24, 94, 14><Delay 01><24, 43, 0A><Delay 03><24, 7F, 08><Delay 03><24, FF, 0A><PlaySound 0D><Delay 14><PlaySong 0F><Volume 80, 82><24, C3, 14><Delay 08><24, 43, 28><Delay 0F>"Ghosts!? Nooo!!" they shriek!
<waitpad> Ghastly, tortured screams resound throughout the hall, as the dozens of ghosts fly up into the air, vanishing through the ceiling!
<Waitpad><ClearText> Then, after a few moments, a voice laughs out from high above. "How are you finding the dance so far? Enjoyable, I hope."
<Waitpad> Looking up, we see a lady sitting on the huge chandelier, dressed differently than the other ghosts. I get the feeling she's not one of them at all...
<Waitpad> She swoops down, coming within mere inches of my face.
<Waitpad><ClearText><24, C3, 08><FadeOut 70, 3C><Delay 14><ClearBG><Call 0x000C10><Delay 05><FadeIn 70, 3C><24, 75, 0A><Delay 03><24, F5, 0A><Delay 03><24, 47, 0A><Delay 08><If 0x14DC doesn't equal 01 goto 0x042F38>"I was getting so bored watching you scurry around like rodents... shame on you. I even resorted to having you robbed, just to set you onto the right path."
<Waitpad> The incident with the demon pops into my mind.
<waitpad>"She stole the plate from us?" I whisper to Magil.
<waitpad>"No, I believe she means she sent someone," Magil says quietly.
<Waitpad><ClearText>

<Label 0x042F38>
"Rob us? And just who do ya think you are?"
<Waitpad>"I am the Goddess of Death, a servant of the Shadow Realm," she answers. "My name is Lilith. Although in my current state, I realize looks can be deceiving. Having been summoned here, I took on the form of this young lady, Riddel, for my latest hunt."
<waitpad>"Hunt?"
<waitpad>"Yes, and I thank you for it, I had so yearned for the practice. I had not hunted in so long..."
<waitpad><cleartext>"Me!?" Kid asks, astonished.
<waitpad>"You are the one who signed the name `Lynx' in the Soul Contract, are you not?"
<waitpad><cleartext>"Lynx... you killed Lynx!?"
<waitpad> Lilith simply stares at Kid.
<waitpad>"She's referring to the Book of the Dead, when you signed Lynx's name in it, back in the study," Magil whispers to Kid. "She's a Shadow Huntress."
<waitpad>"So... he's dead." Kid says once again, almost in shock.
<waitpad>"I wouldn't necessarily call him dead. Well-preserved is a better term," Lilith explains as she takes a shimmering scarlet jewel out of her pocket.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 1E><cleartext><24, C7, 1E><Delay 0F><ClearBG><Call 0x000B1D><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 14>"The Frozen Flame!!"
<Waitpad>"Ah, so you do know something after all," she says. "Ironic, that a soul like his, filled with such malice and contempt, could ever solidify into a stone of such beauty."
<Waitpad><cleartext> Lilith's eyes narrow. A dark haze begins to form in her right hand.
<Waitpad> The haze slowly takes on an elongated shape. After a few moments, it solidifies into a crescent moon shaped scythe.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 13> The scythe flashes downward with a streak of darkness.
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89><PlaySound 1D><FadeOut 70, 14><Delay 08><ClearBG><Call 0x000C10><FadeIn 70, 3C><24, 75, 0A><Delay 03><24, F5, 0A><Delay 03><24, 47, 0A><Delay 08> With that, the Frozen Flame shatters into a thousand pieces!
<Waitpad>"And with this, I solidify my transition into your world, extinguishing both the vermin Lynx as well as that disgusting puppet, Riddel!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> Treading over the broken shards, Lilith puts out her other hand. The dark haze accumulates into a large, rectangular shape.
<Waitpad>"The Book of the Dead!"
<Waitpad> Lilith hands the book to Kid.
<Waitpad>"Time to sign a new name. I will effectively hunt and take any soul you desire."
<Waitpad><cleartext> This is terrible. Hunting Lynx was one thing, but this is entirely another. I have to do something...!
<delay 0a><choice 0x043316> *Steal the Book of the Dead. 
<Choice 0x0433D8> *Speak up and refuse for Kid.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x043316>
<ClearText> Thinking of the conquest of death that lay before us, I take matters into my own hands, snatching the book out of Lilith's hands!
<waitpad> With all my might I run as fast as I can towards the doors!
<waitpad> But... they're locked!
<Waitpad><cleartext>"Serge... what are you doin'?" Kid asks. I turn around, and everybody's staring at me.
<Waitpad> Gulp...
<waitpad> I walk back, ashamed.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x04346F>

<Label 0x0433D8>
<ClearText>"We don't need that thing!" I yell!
<Waitpad>"Well, what a willful little boy we have here," Lilith laughs.
<Waitpad> I can't let this happen... Kid can't start using that thing at will!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x04346F>

<Label 0x04346F>
<PlaySound 13><Delay 08><24, C7, 0A><FadeOut 70, 3C><Delay 14><ClearBG><cleartext><Call 0x000A89><FadeIn 70, 14><Delay 05><24, 43, 0A><Delay 14> Suddenly, Lilith's scythe swings down, mere inches from me!
<Waitpad>"What the...!?"
<Waitpad>"I can't have any outside affairs meddling with business, young lad," Lilith casually explains, as she floats weightlessly in midair.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Hunting souls is my duty, my sole reason for existence. So you see, Kid will write a new name in the contract."
<Waitpad> I wish we'd never gotten involved with this, this thing...
<delay 0a><choice 0x0435A9> *Seek Kid's opinion. 
<Choice 0x043660> *Seek Magil's opinion.
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0435A9>
<ClearText>"C'mon mate... we've got no choice. Besides, if there's a Frozen Flame in it for us, I'm sure there's some good-fer-nothin' who's already on his last leg..."
<waitpad> A cold sweat runs down my brow...
<waitpad>"And then what? She'll kill us also once she finds an excuse to!"
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0436C1>

<Label 0x043660>
<ClearText> I turn to ask Magil for help, but he's nowhere to be found!
<Waitpad> I can't believe this is happening... I have to do something!
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x0436C1>

<Label 0x0436C1>
<ClearText> Suddenly, Lilith gasps.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 02><Call 0x000DB7> Something is wrestling with her from behind! From out of the shadows, Magil has seized her!
<Waitpad>"Lady Lilith! I hereby order you to cease this reckless behavior, and return to the Shadow Realm!"
<Waitpad><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 08><Volume 80, 78> Magil, having leapt out from behind her, seems to have changed from his normal appearance.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"You... a Shadow Hunter!?" Lilith shrieks, looking down at him.
<waitpad>"You... you shall come with me!" Magil growls, wrestling with the lightning-quick huntress!
<Waitpad>"I see you are adept in the ways of the Jade Mirage," Lilith says, "but I do not think I will be heeding your wishes today, hunter."
<waitpad><cleartext>"It has been several hundred years since you've come here, terrorizing this world! Your powers surely have weakened since then!" Magil echoes throughout the hall!
<Waitpad>"You think so?" Lilith taunts, swinging her scythe downward with lightning-fast speed.
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySound 13><PlaySound 13><Call 0x000DA0><24, 40, 00> The scythe cleaves through the air. Kid tumbles backward, dazed. She looks at her arm, and wipes the blood away from the small cut Lilith made.
<Waitpad> Suddenly, she falls to her knees. Going into convulsions, a pale light begins to radiate from her chest!
<Waitpad><24, C3, 00><Delay 02><24, 79, 0A><Delay 03><24, F9, 0A><Delay 03><24, 43, 00><Delay 02><ClearText>"What's the matter, little girl?" Lilith laughs, smiling cruelly. "You see, hunter, my power here is everlasting, thanks to the essences of these puny beings!"
<waitpad>"She helped you... and now you're doing this to her!?" I shout.
<waitpad>"Circumstances have changed, dear boy."
<waitpad><cleartext> I take Kid into my arms as Magil and Lilith continue to battle with each other.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 10> Magil starts to volley deadly balls of fire, which arc though the delicately crafted ballroom towards the Huntress!
<Waitpad><24, C3, 05><Delay 02><24, 1F, 0A><Delay 02><24, 9F, 0A><Delay 02><24, 43, 05><Delay 02> As she nimbly dodges them, the blazing magic inadvertently flies over in our direction.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 00>"Watch it, Magil!" I yell, dragging Kid out of the way at the last second.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What a glorious day this will be! Four souls for the price of one!"
<Waitpad> Dammit... come on, Magil... get her...
<Waitpad><24, C3, 00><Delay 02><24, 7C, 0A><Delay 03><24, FC, 0A><Delay 03><24, 43, 00><Delay 02> The aura above Kid's chest is getting stronger and stronger. The light is starting to grow more dense, coalescing into a solid ball of light...
<Waitpad><ClearText><If 0x1515 is greater than 3C goto 0x043AF5><Goto 0x043AF9><Goto 0x043AF9>

<Label 0x043AF5>
<Goto 0x043B5E>

<Label 0x043AF9>
<ClearText> Despite her delirious circumstances, Kid opens her eyes just enough to recognize me and smile.
<waitpad>"Serge... thank you... protect me..."
<waitpad>"We're not giving up yet, Kid...!"
<Waitpad> It's the least I can do, to comfort her... I don't know what else to do.
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x043BDD>

<Label 0x043B5E>
<ClearText> Kid's body goes limp, as she continues to get paler and paler.
<Waitpad> I hug her tightly to me, but there's no response.
<Waitpad>"Kid..."
<Waitpad><ClearText><Goto 0x043BDD>

<Label 0x043BDD>
<ClearText> I look up, narrowly avoiding another stray bolt of magic. The two fight mere feet in front of me with blinding speed!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89><PlaySound 13><PlaySound 10> Scythe and flame violently collide as the fight rages on, a frenzy of scattered sparks and violent crashes!
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89><24, C3, 05><Delay 02><24, 1C, 0A><Delay 02><24, 9C, 0A><Delay 03><24, 43, 05><Delay 02><PlaySound 00> I huddle over Kid, protecting her from the blazing fight.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Kid... stay awake... please, talk to me...!"
<Waitpad><cleartext><PlaySound 1C><24, C3, 05><24, 7F, 0A><Delay 02><24, FF, 0A><FadeOut 70, 14><PlaySound 1D><Call 0x000C8D><FadeIn 70, 50><Delay 14> But then, the shimmering light finally coagulates into a radiant gem, solidifying just above her heart!
<Waitpad> The glimmering scarlet gem drops onto her chest as her aura ceases to glow.
<Waitpad><FadeOut 70, 78> Before my eyes, I start to realize our dismal fate as I hug her tightly...
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 10><Call 0x000C10><FadeIn 70, 3C><Delay 08><24, 1A, 28><Delay 08> From behind me, I hear Magil and Lilith, deep in the throes of death.
<waitpad>"You shall return to the Shadow Realm! Now!!"
<Waitpad> With an expertly timed leap, Magil slips into shadow form and crowds around Lilith, surrounding her on all sides! He then ignites a blaze spell, turning the entire area around the both of them into an incinerating, chaotic mess!
<Waitpad>"Aauughhh!!"
<waitpad> Moments later, a dark body leaps out from the fire.
<Waitpad><cleartext><FadeOut 70, 3C><Delay 08><24, 9A, 14><Delay 08><Call 0x000A89><FadeIn 70, 50><Delay 14><PlaySound 00><ClearText><Call 0x000DB7><PlaySong 0F> Magil re-materializes, staring back at the fire, now a putrid, stinky mess on the ground. He walks over after a minute or two and stamps it out.
<Waitpad> But then, suddenly, Lilith leaps out from behind a column!
<waitpad>"Magil! No!" I shout, but she's already got him. He's at the end of his rope...
<waitpad>"Grrrr... Vile witch, I order you... back to the Shadow Realm... with me!!"
<Waitpad><cleartext> ...With him? What!?
<Waitpad> Amidst the entanglement, I start to hear Magil's strained voice. "Serge... grrrrhhh... Only you can thaw Kid... with your feelings... you must...!"
<Waitpad><ClearText>"And you... His majesty is... grrrhh... looking forward... to your return...!"
<Waitpad> And with that, the two phase out of sight in the blink of an eye!
<playsound 22><Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 07><Volume 80, 64><FadeOut 70, 50><Call 0x000C8D><FadeIn 70, 50><Delay 14> Silent and alone, I wrap Kid's body up in my arms once again, hugging her body tightly to me.
<Waitpad> Staring into those delicate, soft eyes of hers, I can't help but think of all we've been through...
<waitpad> Tears roll down my cheeks as I continue to hug her limp body.
<waitpad> I look at the shiny gem. Was it all worth it? All of this trouble, all of this death...
<waitpad> I continue to sob, tears falling onto the Flame...
<Waitpad><cleartext> But then, suddenly, the Flame starts to become hotter and hotter! I let go of it, but instead of falling to the ground, it hangs there, suspended in midair!
<Waitpad><24, 5F, 28><Delay 08> It travels over to Kid's chest, where it begins to thaw back into an aura of light!
<Waitpad> The blaze glows like ember, containing an aurora of the seven prismatic colors, before being absorbed back into her heart!
<Waitpad><24, DF, 14><FadeOut 70, 50><ClearBG><Delay 14><ClearText><Volume 40, 00><Call 0x000DB7><Volume 15, 00><PlaySound 0C><Volume f0, 82> After a moment, she takes a breath!
<Waitpad>"Kid!!"
<waitpad> Ecstatic, I hug her again and again with tears of joy flowing from my eyes.
<Waitpad><PlaySound 00><If 0x1515 is greater than 3C goto 0x044131><Goto 0x044135><Goto 0x044135>

<Label 0x044131>
<Goto 0x0441B1>

<Label 0x044135>
<Call 0x000D89>"Hey! What are ya doin', ya grub!?"
<waitpad>"You were brought back to life, Kid. I thought I'd lost you..."
<Waitpad>"But why do ya always have to be so clingy!?"
<Waitpad><Call 0x000D89><Call 0x000D89> She's back... just like always.
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0441F9>

<Label 0x0441B1>
<cleartext>"Serge!"
<Waitpad>"Kid!"
<waitpad> Our hearts beat as one, as we continue to hug each other tightly...
<Waitpad><Goto 0x0441F9>

<Label 0x0441F9>
<FadeOut F0, 78><Delay 1E><ClearText><ClearBG><Volume 00, 00><PlaySong 03><Volume 80, B4><FadeIn 90, 00><delay 10> On our way out of the mansion, I explain to her all about Magil, the Flame, and everything else. She didn't seem to remember any of what happened after Lilith had struck her.
<Waitpad> And so, we bid farewell to Magil. I hope he's okay, wherever he is...
<Waitpad> Lilith, on the other hand... I'm sure she got what she deserved.
<Waitpad><ClearText> As for Kid...
<waitpad> I'm glad we've learned to grow and live together. Having started out as a nomadic musician, I look back at myself and realize I've come so far since then. We've come all this way, with everything leading up to this moment...
<Waitpad><fadeout 90, 60><delay 30><cleartext><fadein 90, 00><delay 20> The years go by, and I find myself growing older bit by bit. One day, long after all these incidents have come to pass, I take a good look at myself and wonder if I've got any of that adventurer's spirit still left in me.
<waitpad><cleartext> I sit and look at my trusty knife collecting dust on the mantle above my fireplace, and think to myself, my days of traveling can't be over just yet. That old, familiar feeling of wonderment ensnares me as I vow to pack my bags tomorrow and set out for some new, exotic land, letting fate once again guide me wherever it wishes.
<Waitpad><cleartext><textspeed 04><If 0x1515 is greater than 3C goto 0x044307><Goto 0x04430B><Goto 0x04430B>

<Label 0x044307>
<Goto 0x044364>

<Label 0x04430B>
 However, this time I know I'll have someone waiting for me when I get back.
<Waitpad><Set 0x149A to 01><Set 0x14CF to 01><Set 0x14D1 to 01><FadeOut 90, 78><Delay 3C><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00073E>

<Label 0x044364>
 However, this time I know I'll have someone there with me, right by my side.
<Waitpad>"Serge, wait up!" Kid calls out, eagerly catching up with me as I set off.
<Waitpad><Set 0x149A to 01><Set 0x14CF to 01><FadeOut 90, 78><Delay 3C><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00048C>

<Label 0x0443AE>
<27, 00><ClearText><Call 0x0039F4><delay 0a>

<Label 0x044419>
<ClearText><Call 0x000A89><FadeIn 70, 5A><Delay 1E> A countless number of candles spectacularly illuminate this huge room.
<Waitpad> An old-fashioned grandfather clock stands on the right, ticking away with a morbid stillness.
<Waitpad> I step into the center of the hall, looking upwards at the oil canvases shimmering in the low light.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"Okay, third one on the left," Kid says quietly.
<Waitpad>"One... two... three. Here we go..."
<waitpad><PlaySound 01><Delay 08> As Kid slowly pushes against the candlestick, it starts to move slowly.
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 15><Call 0x000D7D><Delay 08><PlaySound 00><Delay 08><PlaySound 18><delay 08>"Wh, what's going on...!?" I stammer, trying to brace myself.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"This entire room is slowly sinking into the ground," Magil says.
<Waitpad> The ballroom is sinking? All of it...!?
<Waitpad><ClearText><PlaySound 19><Delay 0A><PlaySound 35> Suddenly, the room starts to fall much faster! Chills run down my spine as I look around, seeing the paintings smacking against the walls and the candles dropping to the floor!
<Waitpad> As I start to get used to the sinking sensation, my heart fills with a violent mixture of anxiety, expectation, and hope. What awaits us at the bottom?
<Waitpad><ClearText> The Frozen Flame...
<waitpad> Could it really be down here? Is this our adventure's end? What if we actually take it into our hands...?
<Waitpad> Kid... Magil... I wonder what they're feeling right now...
<waitpad> As the room continues to sink underground like an elevator to Hell, I start to hear Kid speak in a soft, meek voice...
<Waitpad><ClearText><Volume 30, 00><Delay 23><Volume 00, FF><PlaySong 04><Delay 17>"...Sometimes... <delay 10>...sometimes, I do struggle to win, even when I know I've already lost, just like that lady said. Why do I do that?"
<Waitpad><ClearText> Looking over at her, I realize this isn't the Kid I usually see. There, a faint, shy smile can be seen across her face.
<waitpad> Suddenly, I feel something so powerful go through me, it feels like a wave of fire, surging through my heart.
<delay 0a><choice 0x0448C7> *"Why bring us here, Kid? Is it fate?"
<Delay 0a><Choice 0x044C6C> *"Don't worry, we can't lose, there's no doubt!"
<Start Clock>

<Label 0x0448C7>
<ClearText>"...... Fate...? Life...? I don't even know anymore. But with Lynx, nothin's set in stone.
<Waitpad><ClearText> But... sometimes, it feels like there's somethin' inside me, guidin' me... no matter what I do, it won't matter because I know it'll be showin' me what to do next...
<waitpad> Bah, what am I sayin'... crazy talk," Kid says, smiling faintly.
<Waitpad><ClearText> I don't know what to feel, hearing this... Kid's always put on a strong face no matter what, seemingly embracing terror when it comes. But right now, I can't help but feel the weight of the situation, bearing down on us.
<Waitpad><ClearText> If you take these matters with a grain of salt, like Kid seems to, it's easy to live a day to day life, like she does. As I look in her face, that strange expression of hers relieves me.
<Waitpad><Delay 0A>"I'm sorry... all this talk, it ain't me," Kid says, scrunching her nose.
<Waitpad> Instantly returning to her serious gaze, she says, "But thanks, Serge, Magil... thanks for comin' here. Because of this, maybe down the road, I'll have another chance..."
<Waitpad><Cleartext>"Huh...?"
<Waitpad>"Nothin'... forget it," Kid says as she closes her eyes, smiling. As usual, she sends me into deep thought.
<Waitpad><ClearText> While only barely visible, Magil stands silently amidst the shadows, effortlessly balanced with closed eyes.
<Waitpad> As I look around at my companions, I wonder what awaits us. We share a calm silence in our hearts, as we continue to descend far below ground...
<Waitpad><fadeout 90, 60><ClearText><fadein 90, 00><Goto 0x044EBD>

<Label 0x044C6C>
<ClearText>"Whatever," Kid says beneath her breath, smiling faintly. "Sayings like those never made much sense to me. There's never a case where there ain't a doubt. Not a single one.
<Waitpad> But... thanks, mate."
<Waitpad><ClearText> She looks towards me with a meek smile. Looking at her, I realize there could never be another girl like her in the entire world, ever...
<Waitpad><ClearText> The shy laugh she sported a moment ago has reverted into a sort of mysterious gaze. As I stare at her, she asks me, "Hey, what's up with you all of a sudden?"
<Waitpad>"Nothing... you just looked like a different person there for a second."
<Waitpad>"Really...?" she says in astonishment, tilting her head.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"It's probably because of the Frozen Flame. We're getting close." Magil says. His low, rumbling voice causes the shadows of the room to tremble.
<Waitpad>"What do ya mean?" Kid asks with a wrinkled brow.
<Waitpad>"Look inside of yourself and you will find the answer, Kid. The struggle for your catharsis is upon you..."
<Waitpad><ClearText>"What in the world are ya talkin' about...?"
<waitpad><cleartext><Add 08 to 0x1515><If 0x1515 is less than 78 goto 0x044EB9><Set 0x1515 to 78>

<Label 0x044EB9>
<Goto 0x044EBD>

<Label 0x044EBD>
<Volume 90, 00><delay 30><PlaySong 00><Volume 00, FF><Call 0x000D7D><cleartext><PlaySound 0A><Delay 01><PlaySound 0A><Delay 0F> Suddenly, a metallic grinding sound can be heard from all around us!
<Waitpad><PlaySound 19><Call 0x000D83> The room comes to a stop, swaying a bit.
<Waitpad><ClearText><delay 10>"Guess this's our stop," Kid says with a hollow laugh.
<waitpad> I stand motionless, staring at Kid and Magil in the dim, flickering luminescence.
<Waitpad><cleartext><Delay 20><PlaySong 08><delay 05> Suddenly, the organ comes to life!
<Waitpad> Looking back towards the monstrous thing, no one is even near it! Nevertheless, it continues to play its strange, twisted tune, the keys and pedals moving wildly on their own!
<Waitpad>"Sounds like a funeral march. Heh, Just kiddin'..."
<waitpad> Bad joke, Kid.
<Waitpad><ClearText>"All right! Let's do this!" Kid says, taking a deep breath as she heads for the door.
<Waitpad> I glance at Magil, nodding my head as we follow her out.
<Waitpad>"It's a funeral march, all right! Lynx's, that is!"
<Waitpad><PlaySound 2B><Delay 1E><FadeOut F0, 78><ClearBG><ClearText><Goto 0x00FF34>

<Label 0x007373> -- text speed select
<cleartext><textspeed 00>

                            Le Text Speed?
                        (Le slow est le pew)
<choice 0x007374>                              Le normal
<choice 0x007375>                                Le fast
<fadein 90, 3c><start clock>

<label 0x007374>
<set 0x14A3 to 01><fadeout 90, 80><delay 28><return>

<label 0x007375>
<set 0x14A3 to 00><fadeout 90, 80><delay 28><return>

<Label 0x007474> -- set text speed
<if 0x14A3 doesn't equal 00 goto 0x007475><textspeed 01><return>

<label 0x007475>
<textspeed 02><return><EOF>