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The Strength to Wield/Story
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The Strength To Wield - Opening
One day, while King Uriens and Knight Captain Uther speak about the future of their kingdom, the magician Merlin interrupts to discuss an upcoming expedition. As they chat, the nearby presences of Uriens and Uther's sleeping babies serve as a reminder for why they strive to create a safe country. Eventually the scene fades as Arthur wakes and frantically begins to get ready for the day, as he learns he has overslept.
???: Sigh...
???: Now that's a frown if I've ever seen one. Shouldn't a king be more put together in front of his citizens?
???: You say that as if I let my guard down in front of anyone else but you.
???: Well, I appreciate the trust, Your Majesty.
???: I understand that in times like these I should remain strong to reassure our people...
???: But I'm reaching my limit, and the people aren't fools. Rumors of our unsecure borders are reaching everyone's ears.
???: Right. I'll be heading back to the front line tomorrow.
???: Thank you. As much as I wish I could join you, I must remain here and make efforts toward a cease-fire.
???: Then I'll make sure I give the big shots over there a reason to call for peace.
???: By the way, Uriens... Try to keep your spirits up while I'm gone. You might just sigh all the oxygen out of your lungs otherwise.
Uriens: I highly doubt that is possible...
Muffled knocking comes from the heavy door.
Uriens: Who is it?
???: Your Majesty, it is I, Merlin. Is the knight captain with you?
???: You're looking for me? Well, come on in.
???: I believe I was speaking with His Majesty...
Uriens: That's enough. Enter, Merlin.
Merlin: I apologize for barging in so late.
Uriens: It's no trouble. I'm more surprised you were willing to leave your atelier at this hour.
Merlin: My dedicated efforts to mastering sorcery are for the sake of the kingdom and Your Majesty.
Merlin: Shutting myself away in times of national crises serves no purpose.
Uriens: It was a joke, Merlin. There's no need to sulk.
Merlin: I am not sulking!
???: Hahaha! The Genius Magician of Hibergreif you may be, but you're still an adorable scamp.
Uriens: Don't you remember, Uther?
Uriens: Just the other day, Merlin set his room on fire simply to cover up the fact that he wet his bed.
Merlin: My king!
Uther: What a riot that was! To think the everlasting Hibergreif Castle came so close to burning to ashes!
Merlin: That's enough out of you, Uther!
Uriens: Haha... Calm yourself, Merlin. What did you need from Uther?
Merlin: I came to speak to him about the magicians accompanying his campaign tomorrow.
Merlin: As well as to report that the wet nurse is beside herself with worry, since she can't seem to find the children anywhere.
Uriens: Uther... You brought them here without consulting the wet nurse first?
Uther: Ahaha, sorry. Couldn't contain myself, you know? Wanted to spend some time with my kid while I could.
Uther: Figured you might've felt the same about yours, so I brought them both here. Should I not have?
Uriens: That is not the part I take issue with.
Merlin: I suspected that was what happened and told the wet nurse as much.
Uther: Thanks, Merlin.
The three men turn to look at the two babies sleeping without a care in the world.
Merlin: They're sleeping quite soundly.
Uriens: It is for their sakes that I work tirelessly to secure a future of peace for this kingdom. I would do anything for their happiness...
Uther: So long as I hold this sword, I shall strive to do the same.
Merlin: I, as well, will do everything in my power to protect them.
Uriens: Merlin, you are to be their older brother and watch over their upbringing. Teach them about the world.
Merlin: You bestow upon me a great honor.
Merlin: I will strive to be worthy of the role. Surely the years of experience I have on them ought to help.
Tornelio: Arthur... Arthur!
Tornelio: Oh, gosh... What do we do?
Cruz: He's not waking up, is he?
Cruz: Tornelio, try this.
Tornelio: Oh... Are these Mordred's herbs? If I remember right, you smear it around and...
Tornelio: Presto!
Arthur: Aaahhh! Good morniiing!
Tornelio: It worked! Morning, Arthur!
Arthur: Huh? Hey, you're not Mordred...
Cruz: He overslept too. He's washing his face now. You should hurry, or else we'll be late.
Tornelio: He's right, Arthur. We gotta get going. Today's the day they announce the exam results.
Arthur: Ah, I totally forgot! I'll get dressed!
Arthur: Thanks for waking me up, guys!
With the morning sun shining through the windows, another day begins for the young knights-in-training.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 1: Changing of Seasons - Episode 1
Because Arthur and Mordred overslept, they along with Cruz and Tornelio are late to arrive to the training grounds. Vane chastises them, before he goes on to the scheduled event for the day: announcing the results of the knights-in-training's exams. Mordred is revealed to be the top of his class, but even his good grades can't save him and his friends from being forced to clean as punishment for being late. While they work, they chat about the new knights that are soon to join the order, then break for lunch as noon approaches.
Vane: All right, is this everyone?
Mordred: Shoot... Pick up the pace, guys!
Tornelio: Oh no, Vice-Captain Vane's already taking roll!
Cruz: Tornelio, just keep calm and run.
Arthur: Pant... Did we make it?
Vane: Oooh! So close!
Mordred: Gah, seriously?
Vane: I see you four are late again... Let me guess—Arthur overslept?
Arthur: Ugh... I think it was because I was having a weird dream...
Henry: And what about all the other times you've been late, huh? You're a repeat offender.
Arthur: H-hey! I mean, you're not wrong! But Mordred overslept too this time!
Mordred: You can't pin this on me. I still got up earlier than you.
Henry: Kinda weird for Mr. Reliable to wake up late. Don't tell me you were having a scary dream too.
Mordred: Ugh, it's way too early to be dealing with your chattering already...
Henry: What did you just say?
Vane: Settle down!
The knights-in-training quiet as Vane calls for silence.
Vane: I'll dole out punishment for our late arrivals later.
Vane: Today we're going over exam results, but I'm sure you all knew that!
The silence grows deafening as every trainee waits with bated breath.
Vane: Remember what I said before the exam. This is a test to see how much you've grown in the year you've trained here.
Vane: It's not a competition to rank you or boot you from the order.
Vane: It's to get you to focus, know where you're at, and figure out what you need to work on.
Vane: What you're doing well, what you're lacking, and what you want to do moving forward...
Vane: Take your results and use them to improve yourself!
Trainees: Yes, sir!
Vane: That's the spirit!
Vane: Now then...
Vane: I know I just said it wasn't a competition, but we do announce the person who scored the highest!
Vane: Mordred!
Mordred: Sir!
Vane: Congrats! You ranked the highest overall!
Mordred: Thank you!
Vane: But don't let it get to your head. There are plenty of others who scored high in individual categories.
Vane: Captain Lancelot himself is pretty impressed with how all of you have grown this past year.
Vane: Push each other to new heights, and one day you'll be worthy knights protecting our country.
Mordred: Worthy...
Arthur: Knights...
Vane: Most importantly...
Vane: Don't forget that while you're all rivals, you're also irreplaceable comrades and friends!
All Five: Yes, sir!
Vane: Okay, now that we've got the announcements out of the way, let's go over the results of the core fitness test.
Vane: Oh yeah! You four that were late! You're staying after! Coming out on top doesn't give you a free pass, Mordred!
Mordred: Yes, sir...
Arthur: Ugh, this sucks!
Tornelio: Ahaha, how many times have you said that already?
The four of them are cleaning a hallway, as per the punishment Vane assigned.
Arthur: I can't help it! From the time we first joined, Mordred's always had a better record than me, but recently I finally clawed my way past him!
Arthur: Well, even though he beat me this time on the exam, I've still got 377 wins to his 375...
Mordred: Now hang on, that's not right. It's 382 to 377 in my favor, isn't it?
Arthur: Ah! You counted each subject on the exam individually? No fair!
Arthur: Vice-Captain Vane said there were plenty of others that scored high in each subject, you know!
Mordred: Doesn't mean that includes you.
Arthur: Doesn't mean it doesn't include me!
Henry: What are you fighting about? Aren't you supposed to be cleaning? You're going to get in more trouble if you keep that up.
Arthur: Henry! Did you come to help?
Henry: Are you crazy? I'm checking if you guys are actually doing what you're supposed to be doing!
Mordred: Why? It's not like that's your responsibility.
Henry: As a matter of fact it is, since I'm the captain of the Henry Brigade, and it's my job to make sure you're not fooling around!
Mordred: Last I checked, we never joined your weird brigade. Even if we had, you may as well just kick us out if we're that much of a pain.
Henry: Wow, Mordred, you think just because you did well on the exam this time, you're that much better than us? Better watch out, or I'll overtake you!
Cruz: Your swordsmanship has actually gotten better lately.
Henry: Glad someone's noticed! Cruz, you've got a good eye.
Henry: Did you hear that, Mordred!
Mordred: Uh-huh. Rather than worry about me, you ought to watch for the newbies nipping at your heels.
Arthur: Oh yeah, Vice-Captain Vane did say they held entrance exams for new recruits this year.
Arthur: We're gonna have juniors to look after!
Tornelio: I'm kind of worried... There has to be a lot of them that are way more talented than me...
Cruz: Have a little more confidence, Tornelio.
Cruz: It's like the vice-captain said. We've trained for a year, and we've all made improvements.
Tornelio: I guess... Ehehe, I hope so at least.
Henry: Ah, I didn't mean to dally for so long. You lot better hurry, or else you'll miss lunch!
Arthur: Uh-oh, I'm already starving though!
Tornelio: Maybe we should save the rest of the cleaning for later and eat first.
Cruz: We have the written exam review later, right?
Mordred: ...
Arthur: Hey, Mordred! What are you doing? Stop daydreaming and let's go!
Mordred: What? Hold on, I'm coming!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 1: Changing of Seasons - Episode 2
In the evening, Lancelot calls Mordred to his office. The knight captain congratulates him for being top of the class, but questions why Mordred left the question about true strength blank. Mordred reveals that he isn't sure what true strength means to him yet. Lancelot tells him to keep thinking about it, then lets him go. A little while later, Vane stops by Lancelot's office, and they discuss how Mordred has been doing during training. More than ever before, Vane is reminded of his duty to properly raise the young knights, and reaffirms his pledge to be a good mentor to them.
Mordred's Voice: It's Mordred.
After a moment, a muffled voice comes from the other side of the door.
Lancelot: Come in.
Mordred: Pardon the intrusion.
It is now evening, and Mordred has been called to Lancelot's office, perhaps to discuss the exam results announced earlier that day.
Lancelot: Good to see you, Mordred. I apologize for calling you this late. Please, have a seat.
Lancelot: Er, sorry, I'll move the papers...
Mordred: Oh, it's fine! I'll stand!
Lancelot: Sorry, again.
Lancelot gives an awkward smile as he looks around his messy office.
Lancelot: Now then...
He clears his throat, then fixes his posture.
Lancelot: Congratulations on being the top of your class.
Mordred: Thank you.
Lancelot: You can relax. I didn't call you here to reprimand you.
Lancelot: I just wanted to have a one-on-one...
Lancelot: Since most of the time I let Vane handle everything.
Lancelot: So what are your thoughts on the exam?
Mordred: Vice-Captain Vane was right when he said it was a good way to find one's weak points.
Lancelot: What do you mean?
Mordred: I thought I improved my speed, but then I realized that my jumping can use a lot of work.
Mordred: Plus, I'm not strong enough yet...
Mordred: Nor do I have enough knowledge and experience in first aid and magic.
Mordred: I also have no skill with manning long-range equipment like artillery...
Lancelot: Hahaha, you're an honest one.
Mordred: But...
Mordred: Exams are just that: exams. They are different from real battles.
Lancelot: That's true.
Mordred: You feel the same way?
Lancelot: I do.
Lancelot: But I also believe exams are still necessary.
Mordred: I don't... disagree with that.
Lancelot: The exam even evaluated your performance on actual missions undertaken over the course of this year...
Lancelot: Your squad scored high there.
Lancelot: You, in particular, showed exemplary skill with analyzing situations and adapting to them.
Mordred: I see... Thank you.
Lancelot: Also...
Lancelot: There's one more thing I'd like to discuss.
Mordred: Yes, sir.
Lancelot: You left a section of your written examination blank.
Mordred: ...
Lancelot: "What is true strength?" You never filled in an answer for that question. May I ask why?
Mordred: That's...
Mordred trails off without answering.
Lancelot: Do you recall what you said when you first joined our ranks?
Mordred: Arthur and I grew up together in the same orphanage.
Mordred: We really had to steel ourselves to brave the many years of hardship...
Mordred: And then came along this entrance examination into the Order of the White Dragons...
Mordred: That's when we made up our mind to join the order to further strengthen ourselves!
Mordred: We hope to be able to protect the weak, as we were once ourselves.
Mordred: I still feel the same way as I did then.
Mordred: You and Vice-Captain Vane are the kind of strong knights that I strive to be.
Mordred: But I...
Mordred: (I don't think true strength has much to do with being able to kill lots of monsters or being good with a sword...)
Mordred: The more I thought about it, the less clear the answer became. I couldn't put it into words.
Lancelot: Is that so...
Mordred: I'm sorry.
Lancelot: There's nothing to apologize for. Raise your head, Mordred.
Mordred: Yes, sir.
Lancelot: It's all right to ponder the answer. I'd wager your hesitation is proof that you've grown from your experiences this past year.
Lancelot: I'd be more concerned if you didn't question the world, and became narrow-minded in the process.
Lancelot: So don't stop thinking. Take as much time as you need.
Mordred: Yes, sir!
Lancelot: Very good. Sorry to keep you so late. Go and get some rest.
Mordred: Thank you. Please excuse me then.
Lancelot: Good night, Mordred.
Mordred: Good night.
Some time passes after Mordred leaves the room.
Vane: Hey, Lancey.
Vane enters with a wave.
Vane: How was Mordred?
Lancelot: It's like you said—he's a little lost.
Vane: That's what I was afraid of. Seems like he's not even speaking to Arthur and the others about what's on his mind.
Lancelot: I made sure to tell him that indecision isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Lancelot: But if he's having a hard time trying to figure out what he has an issue with in the first place...
Lancelot: He probably isn't sure how to tell his friends.
Vane: I haven't been too worried since those kids share a strong bond, but I'll keep an eye out anyway.
Vane: Hopefully he can find what he's looking for with his friends and get a push in the right direction.
Lancelot: They couldn't be in better hands. I'm counting on you, Vane.
Vane: Thanks, Lancey. I won't let you down!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 1: Changing of Seasons - Episode 3
One day, Arthur and friends are assigned to clean an archive room that doesn't see much regular use. As they tidy up, Tornelio finds a book titled "The Holy Book Saga" and is overcome with curiosity. Though every child who grew up in Feendrache, including Arthur and Mordred, know the legend of the holy sword, none of the knights were aware that there was enough on the subject to write a thick book about it. Tornelio is about to delve into the book's pages when Cruz stops him, reminding him that they have to clean, and suggests that he get permission from Vane to borrow it to read later.
Arthur: Whoa, it is dusty in here...
Tornelio: We should open a window and get some fresh air flowing.
Arthur and friends step into an archive that, judging by the thick layer of dust across its shelves, doesn't get regular visitors.
Mordred: Do we really need to clean a place like this?
Mordred: I get that we're supposed to do a good sweep of everything for the new recruits, but...
Arthur: It's just some spring cleaning, Mordred. We used to do it every year at the orphanage.
Cruz: We should be expected to clean what we use.
Mordred: Okay, but nobody uses this place. I'm pretty sure this is our first time here.
Arthur: Got that right. Air's staler than month-old bread.
Arthur: Oh! You think cleaning this archive is part of our punishment for being late the other day?
Mordred: That's what I'm guessing.
Mordred: Everyone else gets to clean normal spots like the cafeteria and lecture halls.
Tornelio: Ahaha... Maybe if we shine this place up real good, people will use it again.
Cruz: There's a lot of area to cover. We should split up.
Mordred: Sounds good to me! No point complaining—let's just get it over with!
Tornelio: Cough... There's so much dust...
Tornelio: And I can't reach the top shelves even with the stepladder...
Tornelio: Wait, what's this book?
Tornelio pulls out a musty weathered tome.
Tornelio: The Holy Sword Saga...
Tornelio: It's about the holy sword legend.
Arthur: Hey, Tornelio! Lemme borrow your stepladder—
Arthur: Huh? Are you slacking off already?
Tornelio: Ahh! No, I just... This is no ordinary book!
Arthur: The Holy Sword Saga... Is this about that one bedtime story?
Tornelio: I think so... But this book...
Mordred: Nobody said it was break time yet, guys.
Arthur: Wait, Mordred, check this out. It's a book on the holy sword.
Mordred: Holy sword? As in... the one the sister used to tell us about?
Cruz: What are you all talking about?
Tornelio: I found a book on the holy sword.
Cruz: What?
Arthur: You know, the legendary sword that once saved the country.
Cruz: Right... I knew that.
It is a tale as old as time—one that every child that has grown up in Feendrache knows.
Mordred: Is this really about the same sword? I've only read about it in picture books.
Arthur: Yeah, this is a lot of paper to dedicate to a bedtime story, and there's a lot of words crammed on each page...
Mordred: What's there to even write about? A chosen hero finds the holy sword at the end of his adventure and removes it from a stone—simple as that.
Arthur: Then he uses it to vanquish evil and save his country.
Arthur: I loved listening to the sister tell me the tale, but is there really enough content to fill up a book this thick?
Tornelio: That's why I think this book is such a rare find. I'm dying to see what's written...
Cruz: Tornelio.
Just as Tornelio is about to turn the page, Cruz stops him.
Cruz: We should really clean up first.
Tornelio: Oh, right! Sorry...
Cruz: If you really want to read it, you should ask permission from Vice-Captain Vane after.
Tornelio: Yeah, good point.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 1: Changing of Seasons - Episode 4
Arthur and friends are sparring in the training grounds when a group of new recruits passes by. The sight of their new juniors reminds Arthur and friends of their trials and tribulations over the past year, especially their harrowing entrance exam. One of the new recruits approaches the group and introduces himself as Rowley. Rowley expresses his respect for Mordred, the top of the class, and Arthur, who is also well known, but Mordred watches Rowley warily and makes the group resume their sparring.
The sound of clashing wood fills the training grounds.
Arthur: Take thiiis!
Cruz: Halt! The match has been decided.
Cruz: Victory goes to Arthur.
Arthur: Yes!
Mordred: Argh, damn it!
Arthur: Did you see it! Did you see my new move?
Mordred: When did you even have time to practice that!
Arthur: Heheh! Bet you didn't see that coming!
Mordred: I'm not done yet! You just got lucky!
Arthur: Oh yeah? Then let's go again...
As Arthur and friends enjoy their sparring, a group of people passes by the training grounds.
Tornelio: Oh, those are...
Cruz: The new recruits, right?
Arthur: Their uniforms are so clean and pressed! Wonder if we looked that good a year ago too!
Mordred: Ours got pretty messed up by the time we finished that mountain climbing exam.
Arthur: They sure did!
Tornelio: That exam was really something else...
Mordred: Arthur! Here's our chance now that their numbers have dwindled!
Cruz: Go! Mordred and I will handle things here!
Tornelio: You can do it, Arthur!
Henry: You'd better not lose!
Arthur: I can feel their power...
Bone Dragon: Fshoorooroo...
Arthur: So you've been suffering this whole time...
Arthur: It's about time someone put you out of your misery...
Arthur: Here I go!
Arthur: Haaaagh!
Mordred: One wrong move, and we could've died.
Arthur: Sure, it wasn't all sunshine and roses, but that's where everything started for us. Thinking about it always make me feel fuzzy.
Mordred: You should probably keep your eyes forward—not on the past.
Arthur: Don't need to remind me! I'm definitely gonna be captain someday!
Mordred: That's my line!
Arthur: All right, break time's over! Cruz, spar with me next!
Mordred: Tornelio, you're with me!
Tornelio: H-huh? I'm no match for you in a sword spar though...
Mordred: Keep grumbling like that, and the new recruits are going to walk all over you!
Henry: If you're looking for a challenge, I'd be more than happy to oblige.
Mordred: Ugh, you again...
Henry: Hey, I heard that!
Mordred: Uh-huh... You want to hang out with us that bad? Then you be the referee.
???: Oh!
???: Are you Mordred?
Mordred: What? Who are you?
Rowley: The name's Rowley! I just joined the order as a knight-in-training!
Arthur: One of our new juniors! Welcome to the White Dragons!
Mordred: What's a newbie like you want with me?
Rowley: I heard you're the top of your class! I just had to come over as a courtesy!
Cruz: ...
Henry: Hmm, I've heard your name before... Are you perhaps the son of a viscount?
Rowley: I am, but... I'm fourth in line to succeed. My standing isn't so high.
Arthur: So you're a noble like Henry then!
Rowley: Are you all training right now? Would it be all right if I observed?
Mordred: No. You're in the way.
Arthur: Aw, come on. He just wants to watch.
Henry: Yeah, Mordred, don't be so cold.
Rowley: If it's a problem...
Arthur: Don't mind him.
Arthur: Rowley, right? I'm Arthur! Nice to meet you!
Rowley: Nice to meet you too! I've heard about you as well!
Arthur: Huh, really?
Mordred: Whatever, let's just get on with sparring. Tornelio.
Tornelio: Er, okay!
Cruz: Arthur, we should start too.
Arthur: Right. Time to do this!
Henry: Hey, what about me!
Mordred: You can spar with the newbie.
The sound of wooden swords clashing echoes throughout the training grounds once more.
The coming days are bound to be just as rowdy, as a round of new faces now fill the ranks of the Order of the White Dragons.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 2: The Legend of the Holy Sword - Episode 1
Elsewhere, (Captain) and crew receive a letter from Vane. The letter invites the crew to join the Order of the White Dragons' knights-in-training on their joint training expedition. (Captain) soon charts a course for Feendrache. In another time and place, Uriens and Uther reflect on the danger their kingdom is in, wishing that a hero bearing the sheath would arrive to save the day, but focus their efforts on appealing to Feendrache for aid.
Vyrn: So what'd Vane write?
Lyria: Let's see...
(Captain) and crew gather around as they look at the letter Vane had sent from Feendrache.
Lyria: It seems it's about time for a round of new recruits to join the Order of the White Dragons.
Vyrn: I can't believe it's already been a year since Arthur and the others joined!
A year ago during entrance examinations for the order, (Captain) and crew participated as special proctors per Lancelot and Vane's request.
Lancelot: We in the Order of the White Dragons have more opportunities than ever before to interact with skyfarers.
Lancelot: I asked one skyfarer in particular to lend a helping hand with this whole examination.
Lancelot: Allow me to do the introductions.
Lancelot gestures to (Captain), along with Vyrn and Lyria.
Vyrn: Heyo! Nice to meet y'all!
Lyria: Erm... Thanks for having us! Let's all work together to get through this test!
(Captain) is next in line to make an introduction.
Lyria: Hehe, I hope Team Chickadee is doing well.
Vyrn: You sure we can call them chickadees anymore? Seems like they've graduated to being at least hawks.
Lyria: Oh, I guess so! It's too bad... Chickadees are really cute.
Vyrn: Everyone's gotta fly the nest someday. They're probably gonna grow a lot, now that they've got their own juniors to look after.
Lyria: I'm sure they will!
Lyria: There's a little bit more to the letter...
Lyria: It says here they're going to take the first-years and second-years on a joint training expedition.
Lyria: That, and...
Lyria: They want (Captain) to participate too!
Vyrn: Yeah?
Vyrn: Whaddya say, (Captain)?
Choose: I'm in.
Vyrn: Then let's get this show on the road!
Choose: Hmm...
Lyria: He did say to only come if you weren't busy...
Vyrn: Hrm...
Vyrn: Remember how pumped the rookies were when you showed up at the mountain climbing exam last year?
Lyria: Arthur and Mordred were really happy to talk to you, (Captain).
Vyrn: Must've been nice to chat with someone around their own age.
After hearing Lyria and Vyrn out, (Captain) eventually gives a nod and agrees to go.
Continue 1Lyria: Yay! I can't wait to see everyone again!
Vyrn: All right, Feendrache, here we come!
Lyria: Yeah!
In no time at all, the Grandcypher charts a course toward Feendrache.
Uriens: I see... Achieving peace may prove more difficult than expected.
Uther: I'm sorry, Uriens. My knights and I weren't capable enough...
Uriens: Stop that. The blame lies not on the knights. Besides, we don't have time to waste lamenting our shortcomings.
Uther: Right. The enemy won't be standing around doing nothing.
Uther: What are you thinking of doing?
Uriens: We should appeal to Feendrache for aid.
Uther: Feendrache... You believe they'll respond?
Uriens: I realize Hibergreif and Feendrache have ceased diplomatic relations for many years.
Uriens: But if our old covenant is any basis to go by, we could be peerless allies if we work together.
Uther: Feendrache of the sword, and Hibergreif of the sheath...
Uriens: Legends aside, King Josef is rumored to be wise and sensible.
Uther: I suppose there's no way Feendrache hasn't heard about what Hibergreif is going through.
Uriens: Let us do what we can to make sure our appeal for aid is accepted.
Uther: I have to say though... This doesn't do much for my pride as a knight of our country.
Uriens: Uther...
Uther: If only a hero bearing the sheath would show up and save us from all this suffering and calamity.
Though Uther's words are facetious, Uriens slumps slightly forward with furrowed brows.
Uriens: What can one do with only a sheath in the first place?
Uther: Hey, now. Our king shouldn't fall for jokes so easily.
Uriens: Forget I said anything. I tend to let my guard down around you.
Uther: You know, I always did like the legends of the holy sword in the valley of Camlann...
Crying Baby: Ngyah... Ngwah!
Uther: Hm? Which one of them's crying?
Crying Baby: Nngh... Ahh... Waahhh!
Uther: It's Arthur again... Come here, little one!
Uther picks up the crying baby from his crib.
Uther: You really love crying, don't you? Meanwhile . . . is happy as can be. You should learn from his example.
Crying Baby: Gyahh! Wahhh!
Uther: There, there... Let it all out.
Uther: Cry as much as you want now, then grow up big and strong. One day this country will be yours and . . . to protect.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 2: The Legend of the Holy Sword - Episode 2
Cruz finds Tornelio engrossed in the book that they found about the holy sword. Tornelio explains that the holy sword is called Excalibur, and that the stories they heard as children were only one part of the whole legend. Arthur, Mordred, and Rowley show up to the conversation, and Rowley reveals that he is quite knowledgeable about the holy sword. He claims that Excalibur is composed of a blade and a sheath, but before he can continue, the group is reminded they have somewhere to be and hurry toward their next assignment.
Tornelio: Hmm...
Tornelio: Huh... I didn't know that.
Tornelio: ...
Cruz: Tornelio.
Tornelio: Whoa!
Under the shade of a tree, Tornelio leaps into the air when Cruz disturbs his reading.
Cruz: Did I startle you?
Tornelio: It's okay. It's my own fault for being so wrapped up in this book...
Cruz: Must be a good read.
Tornelio: Yeah, it's the one we found when we were cleaning the archive.
Cruz: About the holy sword?
Tornelio: Vice-Captain Vane gave me permission to borrow it.
Cruz: Is it really that interesting?
Tornelio: Yes... I'm not finished reading yet, but I've already learned a lot.
Tornelio: Did you know the holy sword is called Excalibur? At least according to this book.
Cruz: ...
Tornelio: My guess is that the holy sword legend we're familiar with contains only part of the whole tale.
Tornelio: These types of legends tend to have various versions, especially when they're passed down verbally. I wonder if there are other books written on the subject...
Tornelio: Oh, sorry! I know this isn't really useful information, but I couldn't help myself...
Cruz: Er, sorry for what? I mean, if it's interesting to you, then research away...
Arthur: There you two are!
Mordred: Cruz! Tornelio! What are you doing?
Arthur: We've been looking for you guys. It's almost time for our patrol.
Tornelio: Sorry, I forgot. Thanks for coming to get us.
Rowley: Wait up, Arthur! Mordred!
Rowley: Pant... I finally caught up...
Cruz: Rowley... Why are you following them?
Rowley: I figured I'm bound to learn something by sticking with Mordred's crew!
Mordred: Not that he got permission to do so. Persistent bugger...
Rowley: Hehe! Oh! What's that book you're holding, Tornelio?
Tornelio: It's about the holy sword...
Rowley: Huh, I didn't take you for someone who'd be interested in that story.
Tornelio: I stumbled across this book recently and thought I should give it a read is all...
Rowley: Did you know Excalibur is comprised of a blade and a sheath?
Tornelio: A blade and a sheath?
Arthur: If we're talking about a sword here, then doesn't it makes sense for it to come with a sheath?
Rowley: I suppose... But when you were little, did you ever see the holy sword come with a sheath in your picture books?
Tornelio: I'm... not sure. I don't really remember.
Mordred: Can't say I have. It was always inside of a rock, right? Why would it have a sheath then?
Arthur: Now that you mention it, you're right!
Rowley: See? In Feendrache, the tale of the holy sword only talks about the blade, not the sheath.
Rowley: But Excalibur can only demonstrate its true power when both blade and sheath are together.
Rowley: The blade banishes all evil, while the sheath heals all pains...
Cruz: ...
Mordred: How do you even know this stuff?
Rowley: The area my family is from keeps a lot of records on the holy sword legend.
Rowley: I know a little more than most about the subject.
Tornelio: That's amazing! Then the sheath you're talking about is—
Cruz: Isn't it about time for our patrol to start?
Mordred: Oh no, you're right! Our seniors are going to give us an earful if we don't hurry!
Rowley: I'm kind of jealous you get to leave the city. I'm still stuck doing tasks here.
Arthur: Don't worry, it won't be long until you're out there too. See you around, Rowley!
Rowley: Goodbye for now, and take care!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 2: The Legend of the Holy Sword - Episode 3
Lamorak enters Merlin's lair, finding the magician in the middle of tidying up his various magical items. Merlin offers Lamorak to take any item that he likes. As they converse, Merlin claims that alchemy is outside his area of expertise, but Lamorak points to the nearby hybrids floating in glass tanks and retorts that Merlin's work would put most alchemists to shame. Soon it is time to leave, and on Lamorak's way out, Merlin requests that he watch over "the child." Lamorak jokingly asks which child he is referring to, before exiting.
???: Good day, O great and powerful magician, sir.
???: Lamorak, what do you want?
Lamorak: I came to bid you farewell before leaving... It's rare for things to be this messy around here.
???: The consequence of expanding inventory. I'm in the middle of tidying still.
Lamorak: Egad... Do you treat all valuable magical items like that?
???: If there is something you wish to take, then take it.
???: Though I highly doubt you have any need of them in the first place.
Lamorak: You know, I have been wondering for a while now...
Lamorak: You possess unparalleled magical abilities.
Lamorak: While the convenience of magical items can't be understated...
Lamorak: Surely these ones aren't adequate enough to serve your needs.
Lamorak: Yet you appear to enjoy creating them whenever you can.
???: Strong as I may be, there is only one of me.
Lamorak: Well, that's one way to look at it.
Lamorak: These rascals here can be useful for going places you can't.
Lamorak looks pointedly at the hybrids squirming inside liquid-filled tanks.
???: I am not so sure about that.
???: Giving form to flesh is not my specialty.
???: I possess a certain degree of proficiency in harnessing invisible energy and manipulating objects and people through magic...
???: But bringing materials into existence through alchemy is outside my area of expertise.
Lamorak: There you go yet again.
Lamorak: You claim to be deficient, but the quality of your work would put most alchemists in this world to shame.
Lamorak: The miracles you're capable of would rewrite the common foundation of societies if the knowledge were made available to the masses.
Lamorak: Though... I suppose even your powers aren't quite enough to achieve your greatest wish.
???: ...
???: As long as we're being introspective, why did you choose to study magic?
Lamorak: I had an aptitude for it... Not as much as you though, of course.
Lamorak: Moreover, it would have been boring to copy my brothers. I wanted to try something besides swordsmanship.
???: Brothers, hm...
Lamorak: Why, I didn't know you cared.
???: I never said I did. It simply occurred to me that life would have been easier if you were an alchemist.
Lamorak: Too true.
???: At any rate, these hybrids are nothing more than by-products.
???: You wasted enough of them during your failure in Dalmore.
Lamorak: Hey, I already apologized for that.
???: Forget it. I never expected our endeavors to go smoothly.
???: The alliance between the three countries resulted in a significant increase in Feendrache's defenses.
???: But we still have options to penetrate them.
???: Creating a vulnerability from the inside without their notice...
???: Why, such a wound will be all the more painful for those hypocrites to suffer.
???: Let them bask for now in their fleeting peace born from sacrifice and despair.
The young man slams his hand on a tank and drags his nails across its surface.
Lamorak: Then allow me to take my leave, so that I may help make your wish come true...
Lamorak: Trivial though my role may be as an observer this time around.
???: Keep careful watch over the child.
Lamorak: Which child are you referring to?
???: ...
Lamorak: I jest. I'll be sure to take care of them all.
Lamorak: Farewell for now, Merlin.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 2: The Legend of the Holy Sword - Episode 4
On an off-duty day, Arthur and friends catch a dine-and-dasher in the capital. Though Mordred simply wants to take him away, Arthur learns that the criminal doesn't have money or a job, and offers to get him introduced to unemployment services. (Captain) and crew happen to arrive in town at that moment, and accompany Arthur and friends as they bring the dine-and-dasher to the castle. Nearby, Lamorak watches them from the shadows.
Arthur: Oh man, I am hungry! Where should we eat?
Mordred: Can't we go to the usual place? Food's always good there.
Tornelio: And there are a lot of options on the menu.
Cruz: Which is good for us since we all have different tastes.
Off duty for the day, Arthur and friends casually walk around the streets of the capital.
Mordred: If everyone's fine with that, then let's move out to beat the crowd.
Arthur: All right! I wonder what I should order today...
Mordred: Not like that'd change anything. You always order the same two things.
Tornelio: Hehe, either the wild bird omurice or the wild boar and onion rice bowl, right?
Arthur: They're tasty, okay? You all should try them sometime!
Waitress: Somebody, stop that dine-and-dasher!
Food Thief: No way you're catching me!
Girl: Ah!
Food Thief: Out of the way!
Elderly Woman: Oh my!
Food Thief: Move it, pip-squeaks!
Tornelio: Yikes, he's charging right at us!
Mordred: What kind of idiot runs straight toward knights?
Arthur: Pin him down!
Mordred: Don't need to tell me twice!
Food Thief: I said scram!
Arthur: Rah!
Mordred: Got you!
Food Thief: Gah!
Cruz: Target captured.
Tornelio: Use this belt to tie him up...
Food Thief: Eurgh...
The knights-in-training swiftly and skillfully apprehend the thief.
Food Thief: How'd a bunch of kids like you manage that!
Mordred: Your own fault for underestimating us.
Arthur: We're knights of the Order of the White Dragons.
Food Thief: You're knights?
Mordred: Unfortunately for you, this is the part where we take you away.
Food Thief: Damn it...
Arthur: Why'd you skip out on the check?
Food Thief: Why do you care!
Tornelio: Arthur... What's the point of asking him?
Arthur: Captain Lancelot and Vice-Captain Vane once taught me an important lesson.
Arthur: Our duty as knights isn't only to stop fights and crimes as they happen.
Arthur: We should try to prevent issues before they can occur.
Arthur: That's why I figured we could at least learn the reason behind the crime...
Tornelio: I suppose we are knights, even if we're still in training.
Food Thief: Ha! I don't need sympathy from some brats.
Food Thief: Would've never come to the capital if I'd known this was gonna happen...
Mordred: Did you only recently come here?
Food Thief: So what if I did?
Mordred: Let me guess—you traveled here hoping to find work, but when you had no luck, you were forced to steal food.
Food Thief: ...
Mordred: Not an uncommon story.
Food Thief: As if a kid like you'd understand!
Mordred: Still haven't learned not to judge us by our age, have you?
Food Thief: Shaddup!
Arthur: Hey, mister!
Arthur: The city has, uh, this thing that helps people with no jobs...
Cruz: There is an unemployment assistance program with an office that introduces people to job opportunities.
Arthur: Yeah, that!
Food Thief: There's a system like that in place?
Tornelio: We can show you where it's at...
Food Thief: ...
Mordred: Not so fast!
Mordred: First things first, we're taking you in.
Arthur: Then you need to apologize to the waitress, that girl you bumped into, and the elderly lady...
Arthur: Once you've wrapped that up, you're free to go back to job hunting.
Food Thief: Ugh...
Vyrn: Look who it is!
Vyrn: Heeey! Over here!
Arthur: Huh?
Lyria: It's good to see you! I can't believe we ran into you right away!
Mordred: It's (Captain) and the crew!
Lyria: We heard a commotion and came to check it out...
Vyrn: What trouble did you get yourselves into now?
Arthur: Hey, excuse you! We caught a food thief and stopped trouble in its tracks!
Mordred: As if we'd ever be the ones causing a ruckus!
Choose: Uh-huh.
Arthur: (Captain)! Not you too!
Mordred: You really think that little of us? Come on!
Vyrn: Ahaha, we're just messin' with you guys. Right, (Captain)?
(Captain) laughs and admits to it.
Choose: Good job!
Mordred: No need to make a big deal out of it. It was nothing.
Arthur: Just another day in the life of a knight!
Lyria: Hehe, seems like everyone's grown up a lot.
Continue 1Cruz: Not to sound unhappy, but what are you all doing in Feendrache?
Lyria: Vane sent us a message...
Vyrn: Don't tell me you guys didn't get the memo.
Arthur: I... don't think we did?
Alongside Arthur, the other boys shake their heads in confusion.
Vyrn: You guys are gonna bring the thief to the castle, yeah?
Vyrn: We're headed there too, so we can explain on the way.
Arthur: Sure, sounds good to me.
Lyria: Then let's go!
Mordred: Guess that means lunch is postponed.
Arthur: Oh! I completely forgot I was hungry!
Mordred: Not much we can do about it now. Suck it up.
Plans made, the group begins the trek to the castle.
Cruz: Hm...
Tornelio: Cruz? What's wrong?
Cruz: It's nothing.
Tornelio: If you say so. We should go, or else they'll leave us behind.
Cruz: Right.
As Cruz and Tornelio turn back around to rejoin their friends, a small shadow emerges from the crowd and slips into a nearby alleyway.
Lusor: Phew...
Lusor: That was close. I didn't expect (Captain), Vyrn, and Lyria to show up.
Lusor: They'd definitely recognize this form.
Lusor: Guess it's time to ditch the Harvin disguise.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 3: The Valley of Camlann - Episode 1
Vane gathers the first-years and second-years to the training grounds and announces the joint training expedition, as well as the participation of (Captain) and crew. A little later, Vane has a private chat with the crew and proudly listens to the compliments they give about the knights-in-training. The crew also shower Vane with compliments too, and Vane hopes he is setting a good example for his knights-in-training.
(Captain)'s crew has arrived in Feendrache, and the afternoon sun looms high in the sky.
Vane: Are all the first-years and second-years rounded up?
Vane herds the knights-in-training into the practice grounds.
Vane: Today marks year two of our exams to welcome new knights into the Order of the White Dragons.
Vane: I was thinking we'd try a different sort of exam this time around...
Vane: One that involves a joint training expedition between the first-years and second-years!
Mordred: A joint training...
Arthur: Expedition!
Vane: It's not often that you trainees get a chance to leave the capital for field exercises.
Vane: So I figured it'd be a nice change of pace!
Vane: First-years, take this occasion to observe your seniors and set yourselves some goals!
Vane: Second-years, you just focus on setting a good example for your juniors!
Tornelio: Gulp... I don't know about this...
Vane: Without further ado...
Vane sneaks a glance over at where (Captain) and crew are standing nearby.
Vane: I'd like to introduce the special participants who'll be joining the expedition!
Choose: The name's (Captain).
Lyria: I'm Lyria!
Vyrn: And you can call me Vyrn!
Vane: You second-years should remember them. They joined our mountain climbing exam last year.
Vane: Those three are skyfarers, and (Captain)'s the young captain.
Vane: Don't be fooled by their youth. They've gone through a lot of experiences I couldn't even begin to imagine.
Vane: But that's all the more reason we can learn from one another—knight to skyfarer, and skyfarer to knight.
Vane: I'm sure you'll find them easy to talk to, so don't be afraid to chat and get to know one another! This is a great learning opportunity!
Lyria: I look forward to getting to know you!
Vyrn: Let's do this!
Trainees: Thank you for joining us!
Vane: That's it for now! You're all dismissed, but use this time to prep for the expedition!
Vane: Thanks for coming, you guys! I really appreciate it!
Vyrn: Pleasure's all ours!
Lyria: We always love getting to see our friends in Feendrache!
Vyrn: Is it just me, or do Arthur and the others seem more dependable than before?
Vane: You think so? That's awesome to hear!
Vyrn: What're you gettin' all happy for? We were complimenting the kids.
Vane: Ahaha! Isn't it natural for me to be invested in their maturation?
Lyria: That's true. You're not only their teacher, but also their older brother figure!
Vane: Aw, really? You're making me blush!
Vane: I do hope I'm giving them a good example to follow.
Vyrn: I can promise you are! They couldn't have made this much progress without your coaching!
Vane: Haha, thanks.
Vane: Oh yeah, have you guys seen Lancey yet?
Lyria: We'd like to, but isn't he very busy?
Vane: Sure, he's swimming in work, but I know he'd love to see you all again.
Vane: You should at least go say hi!
Vyrn: Then let's do that!
Vane: He's going to be so happy!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 3: The Valley of Camlann - Episode 2
A few days later, the joint training expedition begins. They are traveling to an area managed by Rowley's family, which is of noble lineage. Rowley explains that the area was once called Camlann, and Tornelio excitedly realizes this might be the same Camlann that Excalibur supposedly appears in. Though the possibility of finding the holy sword excites a few of the knights, Cruz sternly reminds them they are here to train, not fool around. Mordred, meanwhile, wonders why the name Camlann sounds so familiar to him.
A few days later, the joint training expedition begins. (Captain) and crew accompany the knights as they head out.
Arthur: This is our first time in this area, isn't it?
Mordred: Should be. Judging by the direction we traveled in, we're close to our hometown, but this mountain is in the way.
Henry: I believe this mountain is part of the region Rowley's family administers.
Rowley: It is! We granted the White Dragons permission to use it!
Arthur: Whoa, your family owns the mountain? So it's like your backyard then!
Mordred: He said his family manages the region, or did you forget how nobles work?
Arthur: Oh yeah. Sorry, it's just crazy to think about owning so much land.
Rowley: I understand where you're coming from. Even though it's supposed to be our land, I've never been here before...
Rowley: My parents told me this area was once called Camlann in the far past.
Tornelio: Camlann... as in that Camlann?
Rowley: Have you heard of it before?
Arthur: What is it?
Tornelio: According to the book, it said that the holy sword Excalibur appeared in a place called Camlann.
Henry: Oh yeah, didn't you mention something about how the holy sword is tied to a secluded location?
Rowley: Camlann apparently meant "valley" in an ancient language.
Tornelio: Wow... Is this really Camlann? I didn't think it actually existed!
Rowley: Isn't it exciting?
Tornelio: It truly is! Perhaps this is where the legends truly took place.
Rowley: Why don't we take a look around since we're already here?
Arthur: What for? Don't tell me you think the holy sword is real.
Rowley: I don't know about the holy sword, but... what about a sword in a stone, or a healing lake, or a cave for training...
Tornelio: All those places appeared in the book...
Rowley: Yeah, and I think those legendary locations could be real.
Tornelio: It would be awesome if they were...
Rowley: It can't hurt to look, right?
Cruz: Don't be ridiculous.
Cruz: We're here to train, not goof around.
Rowley: I know, but...
Tornelio: Sorry, Cruz. I promise we'll train properly...
Tornelio: Whoa!
Arthur: You okay, Tornelio? These mountain paths are pretty steep. You have to be more careful.
Tornelio: R-right, sorry.
New Recruit 1: Hahaha, did you see that?
New Recruit 2: Hey, he's our senior. You shouldn't laugh.
New Recruit 1: So what if he is?
New Recruit 1: Don't get me wrong, but... Harvins don't really have the physique to be knights.
New Recruit 2: You make a good point. Not sure they should be swinging a sword around.
Tornelio: ...
Cruz: Ignore them.
Tornelio: It's fine. They're not wrong...
Cruz: Let them say what they want. Soon they'll be eating their words.
Tornelio: Thanks, Cruz.
Cruz: ...
Cruz: Why are you so interested in the holy sword anyway?
Tornelio: Why? Hmm, why indeed...
Tornelio: I guess if I had to give an answer, it's because it gets me fired up.
Cruz: What do you mean?
Tornelio: At its core, it's a story about a just person utilizing righteous power for good and saving a country...
Tornelio: Maybe it's because I'm weak, but... I wish I could become a person like that.
Tornelio: I know real life doesn't wrap up nicely like tales in a book.
Tornelio: But it's nice to hope that it could happen.
Cruz: I see.
Mordred: ...
Arthur: Mordred? Hello? You're going to trip if you keep spacing out.
Mordred: Will not.
Mordred: I swear... I've heard the name Camlann somewhere before...
Arthur: Yeah? Maybe it appeared in one of our picture books.
Mordred: No, that doesn't sound right.
Arthur: If you've heard about it before, I should have too. Hmm...
Mordred: Maybe it's just my imagination. Forget I said anything.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 3: The Valley of Camlann - Episode 3
As the expedition ascends the mountain path, they are suddenly attacked by a monster. Tornelio predicts more are on the way, and soon the second-years are dealing with an oncoming horde. (Captain) and crew watch them, admiring their growth into dependable knights. However, Arthur extends too far forward, leaving a gap in their defensive line, and when Mordred goes to cover his back, Arthur nearly cuts into him. Though Mordred manages to shake Arthur out of his horrified stupor, Arthur's movements are nowhere near as sharp as earlier.
Vane leads the knights-in-training toward the peak of the mountain, which is their destination for the day.
Vane: Are all members accounted for? No one was left behind, right?
Arthur: Squad three is all here!
Henry: So is squad two!
Each group confirm their attendance.
Vane: Keep your wits about you. We're entering monster territory now!
Vane: Check your flanks in addition to the front and rear!
Vane: Maintain formation, but be prepared to adjust in case of emergency.
Vane: But make sure you communicate with each other first!
Mordred: The first-years in the rear right flank are lagging behind.
Arthur: Yeah... Should we do something?
Mordred: Maybe we can send one of the second-years...
Monster: Grrr!
New Recruit 1: Aaahh! Monster!
Mordred: Speak of the devil!
New Recruit 1: Eek!
Henry: Take this!
Knight Trainee 1: A shallow cut... It's running away!
Monster: Grooaaar!
Vane: Don't follow it! Keep your eyes open for the next attack!
Tornelio: That monster just now...
Tornelio: It was a scout! Be careful, we might be near a nest!
Cruz: Reinforcements are on the way.
Tornelio: Judging by the terrain and vegetation... They'll be approaching from the front right!
Arthur: Nice job, Tornelio!
Cruz: We should prepare a counterattack.
Mordred: It'll be harder for them to surround us if we spread out along the side of the road!
Cruz: Understood.
Mordred: Tornelio, patch up the injured first-year.
Tornelio: Okay! You guys take care of yourselves!
Monster: Grrr.... Raawrrr!
Mordred: They're coming from the front right, just like Tornelio predicted!
Vane: I'll support the center! Second-years, show them what you're made of!
Arthur: You got it!
Mordred: Let's go, Arthur!
Arthur: Yeah!
Monster: Groaaar!
Mordred: Haaah!
Arthur: Rah!
Cruz: Hmph!
Arthur's squad leads the second-year knights into battle, and they expertly wield their blades against the monsters.
Lyria: Arthur and Mordred are in perfect sync!
Vyrn: Cruz ain't half bad either!
Vyrn: Wait, look!
Vyrn points to a bulge in the front line, where Arthur's group has pushed outward.
Arthur: Haah! You'll have to do better than that!
Mordred: Arthur! You're too far forward!
Cruz: It's too late, there's a hole in our defenses!
Mordred: Arthur, behind you!
Arthur: Eat... this!
Monster: Groar!
Arthur spins around, then carves his blade deeply through the flesh of the monster.
Mordred: ...!
The tip of Arthur's sword flies toward Mordred, who had jumped forward to help.
Mordred: Watch it!
But Mordred manages to parry the blade with a rapid flick.
Arthur: M-Mordred!
Mordred: It's fine! Focus on fighting, Arthur!
Arthur: O-okay!
Arthur immediately faces the other monsters, but his movements are sluggish and stiff compared to earlier.
Mordred: Sheesh... Arthur, you idiot.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 3: The Valley of Camlann - Episode 4
Once the expedition sets up camp, Vane goes over the day's events with the knights-in-training and impresses the importance of relying on one's comrades. Rowley bitterly expresses that Vane's advice only applies in an idealistic world, and Mordred, overhearing him, agrees. However, Mordred still greatly respects Vane, unlike Rowley. Meanwhile, Cruz and Tornelio ponder if Arthur made his earlier mistake because he isn't used to his growing strength yet. Once night falls, the expedition heads out for night training and runs into another monster.
By the time the monsters have been repelled, the sun is starting to set.
Vane: All right, we'll camp here for the night.
Vane: Each squad will set up their tents in a moment...
Vane: But first we have to go over what just happened.
Vane: We had some people who were able to calmly fight the monsters, but we also had others who froze up.
Tornelio: ...
New Recruit 1: Ahhh...
Vane: The second-years handled everything pretty well. Better than I expected, actually!
Vane: Of course, there were a few breakdowns in coordination...
Arthur: ...
Vane: But those hiccups were addressed, and everyone recovered from them nicely.
Mordred: ...
Vane: Each knight has to pull their weight in these situations.
Vane: You can't expect one person to get everything sorted by themselves.
Vane: Which is exactly why we need to work together.
Vane: Take what Tornelio did for example.
Tornelio: M-me? What did I do?
Vane: Tornelio's knowledge and observation skills helped us prepare for another onslaught of monsters.
Vane: As you saw, strategy can be the difference between life or death.
Vane: I'd like you to consider what you and your comrades each bring to the table—your strengths, your weaknesses...
Vane: And how you'll contribute to the team.
Vane: Strength comes in many different forms. Remember that.
Trainees: Yes, sir!
Rowley: How idealistic...
Rowley: Nothing can be accomplished without your own power...
Mordred: Hey.
Rowley: Mordred! Did you... hear what I just said?
Mordred: I understand where you're coming from.
Rowley: Huh?
Mordred: No matter how many friends you're blessed with, you still have to rely on your own strength in the end.
Mordred: Only in an ideal world does Vice-Captain Vane's advice hold true.
Rowley: Then you, too, think that he...
Mordred: I hold him in the highest regard.
Rowley: What? But why!
Mordred: He fully understands his own capabilities and weaknesses.
Mordred: Besides, he made a good point. Neither you nor I can hold a candle to the vice-captain if we had to handle things by ourselves.
Mordred: So do what you're supposed to without the grumbling.
Rowley: All right...
Mordred: Besides... His kindness reminds me of Arthur...
Once the tents are erected, (Captain) and crew seek out Arthur and friends.
Lyria: Hello, everyone!
Vyrn: What are you guys doin'?
Mordred: Gathering stones for a fire. It's our turn to do so.
Vyrn: Getting stuff done, huh? Watchin' you guys fight got me thinkin' how much you've grown since the last time we saw you!
Choose: It's really impressive.
Tornelio: Wow... Even (Captain) complimented us!
Choose: They've still got a ways to go though.
Mordred: Tch... We know. You don't need to rub it in.
Continue 1Vyrn: Oh yeah. Arthur, you seem like you got over your fear of hurting monsters.
Arthur: Er... Well...
Vyrn: You used to cry and feel bad for 'em, didn't ya?
Arthur: I wouldn't say I've become a heartless killer when I have to fight them.
Arthur: At first, I tried to hold myself back and only incapacitate, not kill...
Mordred: But that put the rest of us in danger.
Arthur: Yeah. I'm nowhere near strong enough to consider holding myself back in battle.
Lyria: You seem like you've gotten plenty strong though, at least to me.
Arthur: You think so? I mean... Maybe I have...
Vyrn: What's with the frown? Don't tell me you're still thinkin' about how you almost hit Mordred earlier.
Mordred: Come on, you knucklehead. You can't let that bother you forever.
Mordred: It's not like you could ever actually hurt me.
Mordred: Stop worrying about that and get back to work.
Arthur: You're right, sorry.
Arthur: I'll go grab the firewood the other squads gathered!
Lyria: I can help too!
Mordred: Hold on, that's not where they put it!
As Arthur and Lyria run off with Mordred at their heels, Tornelio watches his friends leave with a concerned stare.
Tornelio: I wonder if Arthur's actually okay...
Cruz: He's become so quick and agile now. It's ironically become a problem.
Tornelio: He's improved so much it's almost scary...
Cruz: Mordred's talented, so he's able to keep up with Arthur's movements.
Cruz: But Arthur, on the other hand...
Tornelio: It doesn't look like he's fully adjusted to his own strength...
Cruz: Which leads to mistakes like earlier.
Tornelio: I hope we can avoid any more accidents...
The sun sets over the horizon, and dinner comes to an end.
Vane: It's time for night training! There's no telling what lurks in the dark, so stay extra vigilant!
Vane: This will be even more dangerous than our lunchtime run-in!
Lyria: Yes, sir!
Vane: That's the spirit, Lyria! Let's all put in one hundred percent!
With Vane at the head, the knights-in-training travel deeper into the forest.
Vane: The night is dangerous, but... Henry! Can you tell us why?
Henry: Yes, sir! It's the lack of clear visibility.
Henry: Terrain becomes hard to traverse, enemy movement difficult to grasp, and coordination with allies very much impeded!
Vane: Excellent answer, Henry.
Vane: Naturally we can proceed forward by torchlight, but that also gives away our position.
Vane: Cruz! What do we do if we run into monsters?
Cruz: Nocturnal monsters tend to have superior vision, hearing, and sense of smell compared to people, so they often have the advantage.
Cruz: There are many that are afraid of fire, but the large ones won't be deterred—
Monster: Grrrr...
Vane: Speaking of which, we've got company.
Monster: Groooaaar!
Vyrn: That is one huge brute!
Vane: Yeah, this thing could probably snap our bones.
Vane: (Captain) and I will take the lead! Second-year squads one through three will cover our flanks!
Vane: Second-year squads four through six and first-years, watch our surroundings and administer first aid!
Tornelio: Understood!
Cruz: Yes, sir!
Vane: Move out!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 4: A Night to Remember - Episode 1
As the knights fight the monster, Arthur freezes up as he watches it suffer from the wound he inflicted. The monster strikes while he is distracted, but Vane barely manages to block the hit in time and finally puts the monster down. Mordred is furious with Arthur for his blunder, displaying more anger than his friends are used to seeing. Upon returning to camp, (Captain) and crew visit Vane in his tent and help patch up the wound he sustained by protecting Arthur and hid from his knights-in-training.
Monster: Groooaaar!
Vyrn: Gah! I don't think it's done yet!
Vane: Watch your right flank!
Mordred: Arthur!
Monster: ...!
Arthur: Rgh...
Monster: Gyahh!
Vyrn: Did Arthur do it?
Monster: Grr... Ghh...
Throat split open by Arthur's sword, the monster lies gasping on the ground.
Arthur: I'm... so sorry...
Arthur freezes at the sight of blood pooling out of the monster's maw.
Monster: Grr...
Mordred: Arthur, what are you waiting for? Finish it!
Arthur: But...
Arthur instinctively turns toward Mordred to plead his case, leaving his back exposed.
Monster: Groar!
Arthur: ...!
Vane: Arthur!
Vane: Rgh!
Vane intercepts in the nick of time.
Vane: Hoooaaah!
Monster: Graaawwwr!
Struck by Vane's decisive blow, the monster howls one last time before falling lifeless.
Vane: Phew...
Vyrn: Hey, you guys okay?
Lyria: Is anybody hurt?
Vane: Arthur, are you all right?
Arthur: Y-yes, sir... I'm sorry, I...
Mordred: Arthur, you absolute moron!
Mordred: Now is not the time to be crying!
Arthur: ...
Arthur wipes the tears from his eyes in response to Mordred's angry rebuke.
Mordred: How many times have I told you not to hesitate! Why are you always like this!
Arthur: I... I didn't mean to...
Mordred: So what did you mean to do! Well?
Vane: That's enough!
Vane: Should you really be arguing right now?
Mordred: No, sir...
Vane: First things first, we need to check if anyone was injured. Then we'll head back to camp.
Vane: Understood?
Arthur & Mordred: Yes, sir.
After checking on the few injured trainees, the group safely makes its way back to camp.
Vane: Mordred. Arthur.
Vane frowns at the two knights-in-training hanging their heads.
Vane: Return to your tents and reflect on your actions today. Reflect, not fight, okay?
Arthur: Yes, sir...
Mordred: Understood.
Vane: Don't stay up too late.
Arthur and Mordred say nothing else as Vane pats their shoulders and dismisses them.
From a ways away, Tornelio and Cruz watch their friends leave.
Tornelio: I'm shocked...
Cruz: Yeah.
Tornelio: Arthur and Mordred always bicker, but never like that...
Cruz: Mordred was really worried about Arthur.
Tornelio: Sure, but I've never seen Mordred that agitated before...
Cruz: We should head back to the tents ourselves.
Cruz: Make sure they're not still fighting.
Tornelio: Right, okay. Let's go.
Vane: Ouch!
Vane: I sure messed that up...
Lyria's Voice: Vane, can we come in?
Vane: Uh... Sure, what's up?
Vyrn: You holdin' up all right?
Vane: Hm? Why wouldn't I be?
Choose: Don't bother hiding it.
Lyria: (Captain) told us you were injured.
Choose: We know.
Vyrn: You're hurt, yeah? Don't worry, we didn't tell anyone.
Continue 1Vane: Hoo boy... Can't hide anything from you, huh?
Lyria: Please, at least let us bandage you up.
Vane: Guess it'd be impolite to say no at this point.
Giving the crew a sheepish grin, Vane removes his armor to reveal a deep laceration on his arm.
Vyrn: Oof, that's real nasty lookin'!
Lyria: That looks painful...
Lyria and (Captain) start patching Vane up.
Vane: It's not as bad as it looks.
Vane: Yeowch...
Lyria: Oh, I'm sorry!
Vane: It's fine! You're doing me a favor, you know?
Lyria: How is that?
Vane: Perfect! Thanks, you guys.
Vane: I know you just did me a favor, but I'd like to ask for another...
Vane: Could you please keep this a secret from everyone else?
Vyrn: I get where you're comin' from, but you sure?
Vane: They don't need any distractions. Providing stability is my job.
Seeing the determined look in Vane's eyes, (Captain) eventually agrees.
Lyria: If (Captain)'s okay with it... Then I'll keep quiet too.
Vyrn: Fine, but promise you'll rely on us for anything you need!
Lyria: That's right! We're here to help!
Vane: Hahaha! All right! Thanks, guys.
Vane: (I've still got a long ways to go before I'm on equal footing with Lancey, Percy and Siegfried...)
Vane: (I can't stop now!)
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 4: A Night to Remember - Episode 2
After leaving Vane's tent, (Captain) and crew seek out Arthur and find him alone beneath a tree. Arthur admits that he is afraid of becoming more powerful and asks the crew if they ever feel the same. (Captain) and Lyria say that they understand his fears, but their reasons for becoming stronger outweigh their fears. As Arthur takes in his friends' resolve, he ponders the kind of strength he should strive toward.
Once Vane's injury is properly wrapped up, (Captain) and friends leave the knight's tent.
Vyrn: We should head back to our own tent, yeah?
Arthur: ...
Lyria: Oh... Isn't that Arthur sitting alone under that tree?
Vyrn: Oh boy... He looks super down.
The group changes course and approaches the lone boy.
Lyria: Hello, Arthur.
Arthur: Ah, hey, everyone...
Lyria: Can we have a little chat? Or should we leave you alone for now?
Arthur: You can stay.
Permission received, the crew sits down around Arthur.
Arthur: I'm sorry about earlier.
Lyria: Why are you apologizing?
Arthur: It's because of me that we got put into a dangerous situation, and Vice-Captain Vane had to bail us out...
Vyrn: You've been a little out of sorts, pal. Something botherin' you?
Arthur: Hm...
Arthur: I've been doing well lately—a little too well.
Arthur: My body's more nimble than ever before, I've invented new moves, and I have more wins than Mordred now...
Arthur: I really thought I was growing stronger.
Vyrn: Judgin' from that list, you kinda have.
Arthur: I appreciate the compliment, but... Today was the first day in a long while that we got to see actual combat.
Arthur: And I got very scared.
Arthur: It felt like my body was moving of its own accord. I wasn't in charge at all...
Vyrn: Hmm... Could be you changed too much too fast. We haven't been around to observe your growth, but maybe that's it?
Arthur: I don't want to make any excuses.
Arthur: Because of my hesitation, I caused that monster needless suffering too.
Arthur squeezes his knees tight as he hugs them to his chest.
Arthur: I wanted to become stronger to protect everyone...
Arthur: But I almost hurt Mordred with my own sword!
Arthur: (Captain)... Don't you ever get scared?
Looking for guidance, Arthur locks eyes with the captain.
Arthur: We're almost the same age, but you're so much stronger.
Arthur: Every time we meet, you seem to get more and more powerful too.
Arthur: I respect your strength, and I do think you're amazing, but...
Arthur: Don't you ever get scared of all that power?
Choose: Of course.
Arthur: Yeah? Then how do you deal with the fear?
(Captain) answers with, "I push past the fear, because I know I can't stop."
"I still have a long ways to go before I can see my father."
Choose: I'm not that strong yet.
Arthur: Don't feel like it's ever enough, huh? I get what that's like...
"I still have a long ways to go before I can see my father."
Continue 1Arthur: Right... You're on this journey to meet him.
(Captain) nods, then continues to speak.
"I have to be strong to protect the friends that have joined me on this journey."
Lyria, hearing this, chimes in as well.
Lyria: I feel the same.
Arthur: You do?
Lyria: When we first started traveling together, there was a lot I didn't know about the world, and a lot I couldn't do...
Lyria: I hated that I couldn't even protect myself.
Lyria: But now I can fight side by side with (Captain)!
Lyria: I don't really do much myself, since the primal beasts I summon do most of the fighting, but at least I can help.
"You do much more than you think," (Captain) reassures Lyria, taking her hand.
Lyria: Hehe, thank you.
Arthur: So you wanted to fight together.
Lyria: I wanted to lend whatever strength I could.
Lyria: Having great power is a great responsibility.
Lyria: It's scary, knowing you can hurt others...
Lyria: But there are people that I treasure... Friends I don't want to lose.
Lyria: I don't want to feel regret for the rest of my life because I was powerless to help them.
Lyria: Sorry, I can't really put it in words...
Arthur: No, you said plenty. You showed me your determination, as well as the strength of your kindness.
Arthur: Phew...
After a long sigh, Arthur gazes aimlessly up at the night sky.
Arthur: I have to give this a lot more thought.
Arthur: What does strength mean to me...
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 4: A Night to Remember - Episode 3
At around the same time Arthur is speaking with the crew, Mordred visits Vane in his tent. Upon noticing Vane's injury, Mordred worries that one day Arthur's kindness will cause damage that can never be undone. Vane does his best to impart his own advice and ends on one important point: while some things may change over the course of maturing and improving one's self, there are also things that won't.
While Arthur speaks with Lyria and the others, Mordred walks elsewhere in the camp.
Mordred: ...
He stops in front of Vane's tent.
Mordred: Vice-Captain.
Vane's Voice: Mordred?
Mordred: Can I speak with you for a moment?
Vane's Voice: Sure. Come in.
Mordred: Sorry to bother you so late.
Vane: It's fine.
Mordred: I, um...
Vane: I was just about to put on a pot of tea. Care to join me?
Mordred: I'm not...
Vane: No reason to refuse, right? Sit down, and I'll heat some water up.
Vane guides Mordred by the shoulders to a seat, then goes to prepare the tea.
Vane: Oh, whoops. Almost dropped the pot.
Mordred's eyes narrow at Vane's uncharacteristic clumsiness.
Mordred: Vice-Captain, your arm... What's wrong with it?
Vane: Uh...
Mordred: You were injured earlier, weren't you?
Vane: I wasn't being careful enough.
Mordred: I'm sorry...
Vane: Hey, now. Chin up. It's not that bad.
Before long, Vane places a steaming cup in front of Mordred.
Vane: You're a kind soul, you know that?
Mordred: I'm not... at all. Arthur's the kind one.
Mordred: But that's what scares me.
Mordred: His kindness is going to get him into real trouble someday.
Vane: What kind of trouble do you mean?
Mordred: One mistake is all it'll take for someone to get hurt or worse, as much as I don't want to think about it...
Mordred: He might not be able to live with himself if that happens.
Vane: Are you that worried about him?
Mordred: No, I just... He's...
Mordred: ...
Vane: Different question then. What do you want to do, and what do you want him to do?
Mordred: We've been together since the day he was born, so I know the way he thinks.
Mordred: We understand one another, even when we don't...
Mordred: That's why I know he won't change, no matter what I say.
Vane: I see.
Mordred: You're childhood friends with Captain Lancelot, right?
Vane: Yeah, though we're not both the same age unlike you two.
Vane: Lancey's been with me since the day I was born.
Mordred: Is it true you two have never fought before?
Vane: Hmm... Yeah, can't say that we have.
Mordred: Really...
Vane: It's true that we're childhood friends and knights like you both, but...
Vane: You don't want to be like us, do you?
Mordred raises his head.
Mordred: We'll surpass you.
Vane: Hahaha! I expected no less!
Vane: That's one aspect of you both that hasn't changed since you joined the order—
Vane: Your shared goal of becoming captain of the knights.
Vane: I meant what I said when I announced the exam results. You've all grown immensely this past year.
Vane: Naturally, change is part of growing up. It can sneak up on you.
Vane: But there are things that don't change. Remember that, Mordred.
Mordred: Yes, sir. Thank you.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 4: A Night to Remember - Episode 4
In camp, Tornelio and Cruz worry on how Arthur and Mordred still hasn't returned to their tents. Somewhere else, Rowley meets up in secret with Lamorak. Lamorak remarks that the training expedition has proceeded so smoothly that Rowley hasn't produced any results. He offers Rowley access to the magical items that he took from Merlin, and Rowley takes one, intent on bringing pain and suffering to the camp for his own ambitions.
Tornelio: They're still not back yet...
Cruz: Nope.
Tornelio: I hope they're okay...
Cruz: They should be fine if they're close to camp.
Tornelio: I suppose...
Tornelio's worried gaze drifts toward the night sky.
Tornelio: I don't like the look of those clouds.
Cruz: Air feels damp. We might be getting rain soon.
Tornelio: Yeah... I hope they'll come back soon.
Cruz: Me too.
Tornelio: Considering all that's happened... I kind of feel silly for wanting to search for the holy sword now.
Rowley: What are you doing here?
Lamorak: Someone's got a bug up his butt.
Lamorak: Don't be so cold. Our liege was worried, which is why I came to help.
Rowley: I don't need your help.
Lamorak shakes his head and shrugs at Rowley's cold glare.
Lamorak: Could've fooled me. As far as I've observed, you haven't had much success.
Rowley: The results will come!
Lamorak: Well, you have done well to bring them to this place.
Lamorak: But a peaceful camping trip will never summon the holy sword.
Lamorak: Because they have no need of it.
Lamorak: Sword and sheath are simply decorations when there is nothing to fight.
Rowley: I know that.
Lamorak: You haven't had a proper conversation with your counterpart yet either. Shouldn't you be getting along better, considering you're like brothers?
Rowley: Don't you dare group me together with that puppet!
Lamorak: All right, all right.
Lamorak: Oh, before I forget. The big boss said I could take whatever I wanted, so I brought some magical items over...
Lamorak: I'm assuming you don't need these either?
Rowley: Wait...
Rowley: It would be a shame to let your kindness go to waste. I'll take this thing.
Lamorak: Only one? No need to be shy. You can take more.
Rowley: Hmph...
Rowley: If you're done, then get out of my sight.
Lamorak: Very well.
Lamorak: Good luck, Rowley.
Once Lamorak fades into darkness, Rowley raises the magical object to eye level, scrutinizing it.
Rowley: With the correct coordinates, I can use this to call on a few friends...
Rowley: And the camp will descend into chaos.
Rowley: If it's pain and suffering that's needed... I'll create it.
Rowley: I'll be the one to make Merlin's wishes come true, not him.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 5: Under the Falling Rain - Episode 1
While Mordred and Vane chat over tea, Henry arrives at the tent and hurriedly reports that Rowley is nowhere to be seen. Mordred volunteers to take Rowley's place at the lookout point and leaves to tell his friends where he is going. Rain begins to fall overhead, and while (Captain) and company take cover under the tree, they hear a scream come from the lookout point.
Mordred: The tea is good.
Vane: Glad you like it. It's still hot, so take your time.
Mordred: I think it's perfectly fine.
Vane: Oh? Must've cooled off a bit while we were talking.
Henry's Voice: Vice-Captain Vane! Excuse the interruption!
A familiar voice shouts outside the tent.
Mordred: Henry?
Vane: What's wrong, Henry?
Vane: Something happen? If I remember right, your lookout shift ends around now.
Henry: Yes, sir. I waited for the next lookouts to show up, but Rowley wasn't among them...
Henry: None of the new recruits in his squad know where he's gone.
Vane: So he's missing...
Henry: Vice-Captain?
Vane: Henry, thanks for reporting this to me!
Vane's trademark cheerfulness quickly returns, and he pats Henry on the head.
Vane: He'll get an earful from me later.
Mordred: Vice-Captain.
Henry: Mordred? Where are you going?
Mordred: I'll stand lookout in place of Rowley.
Vane: Ah, much appreciated. Make sure you tell your squadmates before you go.
Mordred: Understood.
Henry: And now it's raining...
Vane: Looks like it. Mordred, take care!
Mordred: Yes, sir! I'm off!
Lyria: It's already raining.
Arthur: Sorry, you could've been comfy in your tent if you hadn't stayed to talk with me...
Vyrn: A little rain's no bother! Besides, feels kinda nice when you've got a tree for an umbrella.
Lyria: We should get back soon though. Your squadmates will worry if you're out too long.
Arthur: Yeah, that's true.
Arthur looks around their dark surroundings with worried eyes.
Arthur: And I need to patch things up with Mordred.
New Recruit 1: Aaaahhh!
Arthur: What was that scream?
Vyrn: It's coming from the opposite direction of camp!
Arthur: Away from the camp? Then it has to be the lookouts!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 5: Under the Falling Rain - Episode 2
(Captain) and company rush over to the lookout point to find dragon-like creatures attacking. They quickly notice the monsters are the hybrids Lusor once sent after them and start to suspect the cabal is involved with this attack. The crew sends Arthur away to warn Vane while they hold the hybrids back. On his way to camp, Arthur runs into Rowley, who suddenly questions the kindness Arthur displays. Without waiting for Arthur to answer, Rowley runs for camp, and Arthur follows.
Arthur and company rush over to where the scream came from.
Hybrid: Grr...
New Recruit 1: Eek! Get away from me!
Arthur: Not so fast!
Hybrid: Grawr!
New Recruit 2: There's more over there!
New Recruit 1: A-Arthur... (Captain)... Thank you!
Arthur: What's going on? What are these things? I've never seen monsters like them before.
Lyria: We have.
Vyrn: Right, back when we were in Dalmore. They were called hybrids, I think...
Enormous water tanks line the back of the room, each one containing a large floating specimen.
Lyria: What are those things inside the tanks?
Lusor: A new type of monster manufactured from various dragon material.
Tor: What do you mean by "manufactured"?
Lusor: Are you familiar with alchemy? A revered branch of magic that transmutes one substance into another via equivalent exchange.
Tor: So these monsters were created with alchemy?
Lusor: Yep. Er, well, compared to the genius of alchemy's founder, these flesh sacks are nothing more than cheap imitations.
Lusor: And that's not all the cabal's been creating with the forbidden arts of life manipulation.
Lusor: Dragons that obey people without question, monsters imbued with super strength, homunculi... The list keeps going.
Arthur: They're monsters created through alchemy?
Vyrn: We're not sure of the particulars either...
Vyrn: But they were a pain in the neck to deal with.
Lyria: What are they doing here though?
Vyrn: Maybe Lusor and the cabal are scheming stuff again.
Arthur: I've got a bad feeling about all of this...
(Captain) agrees with a quick nod, then carefully scans the surroundings.
Hybrid: Grrr...
New Recruit 2: There's more coming!
Arthur: Move!
Choose: Hold it!
Just as Arthur is about to meet the hybrids head-on, (Captain) yanks him back.
Arthur: (Captain)! What are you stopping me for?
Choose: The camp might be in trouble.
Lyria: That's right, you should warn them before they get attacked too!
Vyrn: Good call. I'm willin' to bet there's more of these hybrids waitin' out there.
"We need to keep our heads cool and think our actions through," (Captain) adds.
Choose: We don't know how many there are.
Vyrn: Yeah, if this is anything like what happened in Dalmore, they won't stop comin'.
Lyria: You should tell Vane and the others what's happening and have them back us up.
"We need to keep our heads cool and think our actions through," (Captain) adds.
Continue 1Arthur: You're asking me to leave you all behind?
Hybrid: Gyrahh!
Vyrn: Someone's gotta figure out what's goin' on, and someone's gotta keep these hybrids at bay in the meantime.
Lyria: Don't worry about us! We can handle it!
Vyrn: Most important thing is that you report the situation to Vane!
Vyrn: We'll manage the recruits here too, so just focus on making it back to camp!
Lyria: Please!
Arthur: All right! You watch out for yourselves now!
Arthur: Pant...
???: ...
As Arthur runs toward camp, a person appears under the steady rainfall.
Arthur: Who's there?
Rowley: Arthur?
Arthur: Rowley? What are you doing here? Wait, were you part of the lookout group?
Rowley: I suppose you could say I was a lookout...
Arthur: Rowley?
Rowley: What about you, Arthur—what are you doing?
Arthur: I'm on my way back to camp.
Arthur: We spotted a bunch of weird monsters at the lookout spot, so (Captain) and the others stayed behind to fight them.
Arthur: My job's to report everything to the vice-captain as soon as I can!
Rowley: Sigh... To the vice-captain, hm?
Arthur: Come with me, Rowley. It's dangerous out here alone.
Rowley: Arthur.
Rowley: Tell me: which side are you on?
Arthur: Huh? Side? What are you talking about?
Rowley: What do you wish to do?
Arthur: Like I said, I need to return to camp!
Rowley: Mordred claimed you're a kind person.
Rowley: But is being kind truly the right thing to do?
Arthur: What?
Rowley: Your kindness might one day stay your blade and cause someone to be hurt.
Rowley: Or would you rather someone else dirty their hands instead of you?
Arthur: ...!
A long, silent moment passes, before Rowley suddenly throws up his hands in a shrug and breaks out into a smile.
Rowley: Shall we go then?
Arthur: Excuse me?
Rowley: You were in a rush, weren't you? I'd like to rejoin Mordred soon as well.
Arthur: Wait, Rowley!
Flustered, Arthur chases after Rowley as the recruit runs off.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 5: Under the Falling Rain - Episode 3
(Captain) and crew notice that the hybrids are attempting to make their way toward camp. The new recruits at the lookout point with them start to panic and try to run away, but are unable to do so from a barrier that Lamorak has placed around the mountain. The crew have no time to ponder how to break the barrier before more hybrids are set upon them.
Hybrid: Grr...
Hybrid: Gyrraaghh!
Vyrn: For cryin' out loud! Every time we strike down one, two more pop up in its place!
Lyria: Is it just me... or are the hybrids heading for the top of the mountain?
Vyrn: That's the direction of the camp! We can't let 'em through!
Hybrid: Gyrah...
New Recruit 1: Wheeze... I can't... This is too much...
New Recruit 1: No more!
Overcome with terror, a single knight-in-training attempts to run away.
Vyrn: Hey, stop!
Hybrid: Gyaaawr!
A horde of hybrids immediately descend upon the fleeing trainee.
New Recruit 2: Watch out!
Lamorak: Now, now, that won't do.
Lamorak: Whew... Large ones always tire me out, but I don't have much of a choice.
Lamorak: Can't have any of you escaping the mountain.
New Recruit 1: Ouch!
New Recruit 1: What the heck? Where'd this wall come from?
New Recruit 1: Damn it! Let me out!
Hybrid: Shaaahh!
New Recruit 1: Stay away! Aaahhh!
Vyrn: That was a close one... Wait, what is this?
Lyria: A barrier?
Vyrn: Lusor has to be behind this! He's probably hiding nearby!
Lyria: This barrier's a lot bigger than the last one he trapped us in.
Vyrn: Ugh, I can't believe this! All of us are stuck on this mountain then!
Lyria: Even if there was a weak point, it would take a long while to find it...
Vyrn: Our only choice is to sniff out the source and deal with it.
Hybrid: Gyraagh!
Vyrn: Gah! More of you punks? Guess we're doin' this!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 5: Under the Falling Rain - Episode 4
Arriving at camp, Arthur informs Vane of the attack on the lookout point, but as soon as he gives his report, hybrids assault the camp. Vane hurriedly splits his knights-in-training into two groups: the first he will lead to defend the camp, and the second will be led by Mordred to back up the lookout point. Cruz is assigned to be part of the group heading to the lookout point, and on his way out, he warns Tornelio to be wary of Rowley.
Vyrn: This is a real pain in the tail...
Lyria: I hope Arthur made it safely back to camp...
Arthur: Vice-Captain!
Mordred: Arthur?
The first person to notice Arthur running into camp is Mordred, who was about to leave for the lookout spot.
Mordred: Where have you been?
Arthur: Mordred, we've got trouble!
Mordred: Huh? What do you mean? What's going on!
Mordred: Cruz and Tornelio went out searching for you because they were worried!
Arthur: Sorry, but explaining will take time we don't have. I have to speak with Vice-Captain Vane right now!
Rowley: It's all right. I'll explain everything to Mordred.
Mordred: Rowley, they were looking for you too. What were you doing, skipping out on lookout duty?
Vane: What's all the ruckus?
Vane: Arthur? Rowley?
Arthur: Vice-Captain! We've got trouble! (Captain) and the others, well...
Vane: So you ran into strange monsters... Hybrids, you said?
Arthur: Yeah, that's what the crew called them.
Vane: ...
Vane: (Those are the monsters Lancey said attacked Dalmore...)
Vane: Okay, we should head right over to (Captain) and the others...
???: Ahhhh!
A shrill scream interrupts Vane's planning.
Mordred: What was that?
Tornelio: Watch out, we've got strange monsters incoming!
Mordred: Could it be...
Hybrid: Gyraagh!
Arthur: Hybrids! The same ones that popped up at the lookout spot!
Vane: So these are the infamous hybrids.
Mordred: Did they slip past (Captain) and the others?
Vane: No, they're coming from a different direction.
Vane: Rahh!
Hybrid: Higyrah!
Hybrid: Grrr...
Tornelio: Th-there's a lot of them!
Panic sweeps through the camp as hybrid after hybrid appear.
Hybrid: Gyraagh!
Knight Trainee 1: Eep! What are these things?
Henry: Hey, don't run that way!
Cruz: Henry, behind you!
Henry: What?
Vane: Taaahh!
Vane: Everyone, listen to me!
Knight Trainee 1: ...!
Vane: Take a deep breath, watch your surroundings, and regroup!
Vane: Get into formation near tent two!
Henry: You there! Stop dawdling and move!
Knight Trainee 1: Y-yeah, okay!
Slightly calmer after Vane's commands, the knights-in-training manage to slip past the attacking hybrids while moving toward the tent.
Hybrid: Gyraagh!
Mordred: Haah!
Cruz: Hup!
Arthur: If it's this bad here, (Captain) and the others must have it worse!
Vane: Everything will be fine, Arthur.
Vane: All right, listen up! I want everyone to split into two groups.
Vane: First-year and second-year squads one and two will go to the lookout point.
Vane: The rest will stay here at camp.
Mordred: Guess we're staying here since we're squad three.
Tornelio: Y-yeah.
Henry: I'm headed for the lookout point.
Rowley: I'm in camp with Mordred.
Vane: Second-year squad three—you guys are the exception. I'm splitting you up.
Vane: Mordred and Cruz will set out for the lookout point. Arthur and Tornelio will stay at camp.
Rowley: What?
Vane: One more thing.
Vane: Mordred will serve as commander for everyone headed toward the lookout point.
Mordred: Uh...
Vane: I want all of you following his orders. Are you ready, Mordred?
Mordred: Yes, sir!
Vane: I need you to do two things.
Vane: Meeting up with (Captain) safely is the first.
Vane: Since they have prior experience dealing with hybrids, your second task is to help the crew work out a solution against the enemy.
Vane: Use your own judgment for anything else that happens.
Vane: Retreat if it's the best course of action for saving the most lives.
Mordred: Understood!
Vane: I'll lead the initial charge through.
Vane: Second-year squads three and four, cover the lookout group's rear. We'll cut a path open for them!
Arthur: Sir, yes, sir!
Mordred: Lookout group, let's move! Cruz, watch the back!
Cruz: You got it.
At Mordred's signal, the knights-in-training break out into a run.
Cruz: Tornelio!
As the other trainees organize into the correct groups, Cruz quickly drops by Tornelio's side and whispers into his ear.
Cruz: Be wary of Rowley.
Tornelio: Huh?
Tornelio has no time to react before Cruz is sprinting away.
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 6: To Be Strong and Kind - Episode 1
Mordred leads his group toward the lookout point, feeling the pressure of being the leader without Vane to guide him. A new group of hybrids descends upon them, but Mordred firmly commands the knights-in-training and, with Henry and Cruz's help, successfully repels the attack. They eventually meet up with (Captain) and crew, who explain the barrier preventing a retreat off the mountain. Deducing that more hybrids are traveling toward camp, everyone at the lookout point decides to head back.
Mordred: Stay in formation with your squad as much as possible!
In the middle of the pouring rain, Mordred leads his group toward the lookout point where (Captain) and the others are waiting.
Henry: Report!
Henry: We've dealt with the hybrids that followed us from camp!
Henry: Arthur and the others are holding back the bulk of the horde, so we should be safe for now. Cruz is in the back keeping an eye out though.
Mordred: Thanks for the info. Stay vigilant and make sure the first-years in the middle don't lag behind.
Henry: Roger that.
Henry: Wait, did you just thank me? You—Mordred—actually expressed appreciation?
Mordred: Oh, shut it! Now is not the time to be fooling around! Stay focused!
Mordred: I'm counting on you!
Henry: Y-you... are? I mean, of course you are! Well, I won't turn away someone who needs me!
Henry: I'm not like Arthur though. I can't read your mind!
Henry: But as long as you actually tell me what to do, I'll do it and blow you away!
Mordred: You'll have to put in a hundred and ten percent if you want to meet my standards!
Henry: Watch me!
Henry moves to the center of the formation, a pep in his step as he leaves.
Mordred: (Arthur, are you...)
Mordred: (No, I can't be worrying about that right now! Besides, Vice-Captain Vane is with him.)
Mordred: (I have to focus on what I need to do!)
Mordred wipes away a clump of damp hair sticking to his forehead and squints ahead.
He sees a shadow moving in the darkness.
Hybrid: Gyrawr...
Mordred: Hybrid up ahead! One... No, two!
Mordred: There's not many, but...
Mordred: (Running past them is too risky. They might end up following us to the lookout point.)
Mordred: All squads, halt! We're dealing with the hybrids immediately!
Knight Trainee 1: Is he serious? Can we really defeat them without the vice-captain?
Mordred: (Makes sense that they would doubt me. They've got no reason to trust me yet.)
Mordred: (I'll just have to lead by example!)
Mordred: I'll take the agile one on the right. Henry and squad two will take the left!
Henry: Leave it to us!
Mordred: Front line, give us support and cover us! Middle and rear groups, watch our surroundings and be ready to intercept!
Knight Trainee 1: Roger that!
Mordred: Let's go!
Henry: Raahh!
Hybrid: Shhhraaahh!
Mordred: Over here, ugly!
Crouching low to the ground, Mordred slips behind the hybrid in the blink of an eye.
Mordred: (Arthur's the faster one, but he won't have that honor forever!)
Mordred: Eat this!
Hybrid: Graayah!
Henry: We can't let Mordred hog all the glory! Not when we've got the weaker opponent!
Hybrid: Gyrahh!
Henry: Is it finished?
Mordred: Not yet!
Hybrid: Hygrahh...
Henry: Th-thanks, sorry...
Mordred: Just doing what any knight would.
Mordred: Don't you remember what happened with Arthur earlier? You need to follow through and finish the job.
Henry: Right.
Mordred: Let's hurry. The lookout spot isn't too far off...
Vyrn: Hey, there's our backup!
Lyria: Mordred!
Mordred: Vyrn! Lyria! (Captain)!
A small sigh of relief escapes Mordred's lips as the crew comes into sight.
Mordred: Are you all okay?
Vyrn: Scraped by somehow, yeah. We got some bad news for ya though...
Mordred: So this is the barrier.
After hearing about it from (Captain) and crew, Mordred's company commits its own inspection of the new obstacle.
Henry: I can't believe it. It really is impenetrable.
Mordred: Nothing blocked our path from the camp to here.
Mordred: Which leads me to conclude that the barrier extends around the mountain...
Vyrn: That's what we think too.
Mordred: Not good. We can't retreat off the mountain if that's the case.
Cruz: What was his name... Lusor? Have you spotted him yet?
Lyria: No, unfortunately...
Vyrn: If this is anything like last time, he's already long gone. Doubt he'd lock himself in with us.
Henry: I would agree with that assessment. It's illogical to trap yourself inside a monster-infested container.
Cruz: Hold on. Let's not jump to conclusions.
Cruz: A barrier of this strength and magnitude should carry risk to erect.
Mordred: You think he's hiding somewhere on this mountain then.
Cruz: The possibility is there.
Mordred and (Captain) exchange pensive glances.
Vyrn: Puttin' the barrier aside, at least the hybrid horde ain't showin' their ugly mugs around here anymore.
Lyria: Do you think they've set their sights on the camp instead?
Vyrn: I'd bet an apple on it... What should we do, head over there and regroup?
Choose: Well, Mordred?
Mordred gulps before answering.
Mordred: Our core goal should be to regroup, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't want to take care of the barrier.
Mordred: It'd probably be a long shot between the darkness, the rain, and the scale of the mountain.
Mordred: But we should at least check the areas nearby that are teeming with hybrids.
Lyria: We know where to go in that case!
Mordred: If you wouldn't mind leading the way then.
Vyrn: Sure!
Mordred: All right, everyone...
Mordred: We're taking a detour to investigate the spawn point for these hybrids! Then we'll meet back up with Vice-Captain Vane's group!
Henry: Okay!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 6: To Be Strong and Kind - Episode 2
Though hybrid after hybrid pours into camp, Vane holds them off, and Rowley curses that his plan cannot proceed as Mordred isn't there. Arthur is pained by the bodies of fallen hybrids and his wounded comrades, but remembers Mordred's earlier scolding and pushes past his pain to keep fighting. Vane, seeing the growth of his knights firsthand, gathers himself, then shouts commands to prepare for a counterattack.
Vane: Taaaahh!
Vane: Hup!
Vane: Hraaahh!
Hybrid: Gyraaaw!
Back at camp, Vane fends off hybrid after hybrid with an impressive show of skill.
Arthur: Vice-Captain Vane is kicking their behinds!
Vane: Surround each hybrid in groups and overwhelm them!
Vane: Don't try to play hero!
Tornelio: Bring the injured toward the middle of the formation!
Rowley: Curses... The plan can't proceed if Mordred isn't here...
Arthur: Rowley, watch out!
Arthur: Hngh!
Impressive in his own right, Arthur swings his blade swiftly.
Knight Trainee 2: Ahhh...
Knight Trainee 3: H-help!
But the piling bodies of monsters and screams of his hurt comrades chip away at his heart.
Arthur: Back up, I'll handle this!
Arthur: Raah!
Hybrid: Gyaarrgh...
Arthur: Hngh...
Arthur: (Is this really all I can do? Is there no other way for me to help everyone?)
Arthur: Damn it...
His vision begins to blur.
Arthur: Rain's getting in my eyes...
Mordred: Enough crying, Arthur!
Arthur: (I'm not crying, but I...)
Vane: Arthur, to your left!
Arthur: Yes, sir!
Vane: Pull back if you're injured! I said don't be a hero!
Arthur: I'm fine!
Arthur: (Arthur, you idiot! Focus! You can't let the vice-captain do all the work!)
Vane: If you're sure... Urgh...
Vane: (There's so many of them, and their numbers aren't dwindling...)
Vane: (It's just like the report we received from Dalmore.)
Florence: Gawain, wait!
Gawain: Why? The enemy isn't going to wait for us.
Florence: Magic cores are supplying energy to the summoning circle. If we don't smash all of those cores, there will be no end to the horde!
Gawain: What's a magic core?
Florence: It looks like an orb, and it stores magical energy drawn from the leylines in this area.
Florence: They're often placed in spots that connect to the ground, like in a tree hollow, and fuse to what they've connected with, which means they usually stay stationary.
Florence: It emits light while active, making them easy to spot even from far away.
Florence: Normally you'd take out the summoner of the summoning circle to cut off the supply of magic.
Florence: But with magic cores, as long as the power is flowing, the energy they supply is practically limitless.
Vane: (There could be a core set up somewhere this time too.)
Hybrid: Shhhraaahh!
Vane: (But we definitely don't have the time to search for it!)
Vane: Raah!
Vane: (I have to protect them all and get us out of this situation somehow...)
Vane: (But can I do it by myself?)
Vane: Nngh!
Vane: (If only Lancey were here...)
Arthur: Vice-Captain, look out!
Hybrid: Graawr!
Arthur manages to bring down the hybrid attacking Vane.
Vane: Arthur! Thanks for the save!
Vane: (He's strong enough to take one down on his own...)
Arthur: I... We can still keep fighting!
Tornelio: A few people are lightly injured, but they can still move!
Vane: Good to hear!
Vane: (They've all become so reliable.)
Vane: (I claimed they'd made great strides while being completely oblivious to how much they'd actually matured. I should've paid more attention.)
Vane: All right...
Vane: Tornelio!
Tornelio: Y-yes, sir!
Vane: Keep a sharp eye on the hybrids for any irregularities!
Vane: I'm going to lead a charge to mow them down and hollow out an opening.
Vane: Then we'll temporarily break off the assault and go on the defensive.
Vane: During the lull, try and see if you can figure out which direction they're pouring in from!
Tornelio: Yes, sir!
Arthur: Get it done, Tornelio. I'll guard you!
Tornelio: I appreciate the thought, Arthur, but I'll be fine.
Tornelio: You're strong, you know? You should be in front taking the hybrids down.
Arthur: If you're sure... Watch yourself.
Tornelio: You stay safe too.
Vane: Everyone ready?
Knights: Yes, sir!
Vane: Commence the all-out assault!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 6: To Be Strong and Kind - Episode 3
Vane leads his group into the forest toward where they suspect is the source of the hybrids. Once they exit the trees, they come across a sword embedded into a stone—a sight which prompts Rowley into a tantrum, questioning why the sword is here but not the sheath. He takes Tornelio hostage and demands someone bring Mordred over immediately, but the area descends into a battlefield as more hybrids appear. Arthur loses his sword in the chaos, and when he attempts to pull the sword from the stone in desperation, it doesn't budge.
Vane: Visibility's low. Watch your surroundings and make sure no one's left behind.
Vane and company have left the camp behind and are running through the forest.
Hybrid: Gyrawr!
Vane: Here they come! Front line, raise your blades! Retreat to the rear and swap out with someone else if you get hurt!
Hybrid: Gyrraahh!
Vane: Haaah!
Arthur: The vice-captain's incredible... He's taking most of them down on his own.
Tornelio: He sure is...
Tornelio: Most of the hybrids are coming at us head-on, which makes them easier to fight off since they're not swarming from all sides.
Arthur: That means we're heading in the right direction, yeah?
Tornelio: I think so.
The group is traveling toward where Tornelio believes the hybrids stem from.
Tornelio: Hopefully we can find a way to put a stop to them...
Rowley: ...
Arthur: Rowley, you okay? Are you hurt?
Rowley: I'm physically fine. Mostly I'm concerned that we're making a huge mistake.
Arthur: Hey, come on! I get that it's dangerous to travel down an unfamiliar path on a dark and stormy night, but...
Arthur: I don't think we could've held out much longer in the camp.
Arthur: Vice-Captain Vane has the right idea. We should do everything we can to deal with the source of the hybrids!
Rowley: So you, too, believe in the vice-captain.
Arthur: Of course I do. Don't you?
Rowley: I...
Arthur: Hm? Did you guys feel that just now?
Vane: We're coming to a clearing up ahead! Be on your guard!
Soon enough, the group breaks through the trees.
Rowley: What? This place is...
Arthur: Seriously, does nobody else feel this?
Arthur: Hmm?
Arthur: Something's over there...
Unable to resist the strange sensation pulling at him, Arthur searches through the pouring rain.
Arthur: Ah!
He spots a sword firmly embedded within a stone.
Tornelio: Arthur, what's wrong?
Arthur: There's... a sword. Look.
Tornelio: Is... that...
Tornelio: Could it be... the holy sword?
Rowley: Why...
Rowley: Why is it a sword! Where's the sheath? Who could've done this?
Tornelio: R-Rowley? What are you going on about?
Rowley: Was it you!
Rowley shouts with a ferocity they've never heard before and glares at Vane.
Rowley: He isn't here, so that can only mean...
Rowley: This is your fault! The plan's in pieces now!
Vane: Rowley...
Tornelio: Rowley, calm down. This talk of sword and sheath... Are you referring to Excalibur?
Rowley: Silence!
Tornelio: Eek!
Rowley swiftly restrains Tornelio, placing a threatening knife at his throat.
Rowley: If you know what's good for you, you'll cease your squirming.
Tornelio: Why...
Arthur: Rowley, what are you doing? Let him go!
Rowley: None of you move! And stop asking stupid questions!
Vane: Rowley... What are you after?
Rowley: Bring Mordred here this instant!
Vane: You want Mordred? But why?
Rowley: You're not in any position to be demanding answers.
Vane: You had everything planned from the start, didn't you? Getting close to Mordred, changing our expedition location to this mountain...
Rowley: What, pretending like you knew all along?
Vane: I couldn't find proof of my suspicions or evidence of wrongdoing.
Vane: My instincts were screaming foul play, but I wanted to believe I was mistaken.
Rowley: It's embarrassing to imagine an enemy slipped into the esteemed ranks of your White Dragons, isn't it?
Vane: That's not it. I wanted to believe in you, because you were supposed to be a knight I was meant to guide.
Rowley: Ahahaha! Well, aren't you the picture of knightly gallantry!
Rowley: You people from Feendrache are all the same—hypocrites through and through!
Arthur: That's enough, Rowley! You're not making any sense! Aren't you one of Feendrache's citizens too?
Rowley: How dare you lump me with those cowards!
Rowley: You should know better than anyone, Arthur, considering you're—
Hybrid: Gyrrr...
Vane: Everyone, weapons ready!
Hybrid: Gyraaar!
Vane: Taaah!
Arthur: Rgh... Rah!
Arthur: Vice-Captain! Rowley still has Tornelio!
Vane: I know! Arthur, to your right!
Arthur: Y-yes, sir!
Arthur: There's so many of them...
A horde of hybrids descends upon them, transforming the area into a new battleground.
Vane: Damn...
Vane: Rowley! Are you with the cabal?
Rowley: I have no idea what you're referring to.
Rowley: Now stop fighting for a moment and tell someone to fetch Mordred!
Vane: (The hybrids don't seem hostile to Rowley, but we can't just leave Tornelio at his mercy...)
Vane: Arthur!
Vane navigates the battlefield to position himself next to Arthur.
Vane: You're in charge of freeing Tornelio.
Arthur: Me, sir?
Vane: You're nimble enough to slip past the hybrids.
Vane: Rowley's also fixated on me. I can antagonize him, and you can move in while he's distracted.
Arthur: But Rowley's...
Vane: I realize it's cruel to ask this of you.
Vane: But as of this moment, Rowley is no longer a member of the White Dragons. I give you permission to deal with him as you must.
Arthur: Does that mean I...
Vane: There's no time for discussion. Just know that he's an enemy now.
Vane: Consider carefully what it is you want to protect, Arthur.
Arthur: I...
Vane: You don't have time to hesitate. Go!
Cutting down hybrids left and right, Vane leaves Arthur's side to move in front of Rowley.
Vane: Rowley! Mordred's most likely already on his way here.
Vane: So call off the hybrids! You're the one who brought them here, right?
Rowley: Ah, I forgot you were attempting to wipe them out at the source.
Vane: I figured we would find a magic core to destroy.
Rowley: Hmm... Like the ones that man utilized during his failure in Dalmore?
Rowley: Unfortunately for you, no such cores exist here. I only entered the coordinates for a gate.
Rowley: Even if you found it, you wouldn't be able to shut it closed!
As Vane grabs Rowley's attention, Arthur stealthily approaches from behind.
Arthur: (Why, Rowley? I can't figure out why you'd do this...)
Arthur: (Can I really raise my blade against you without knowing the whole story?)
Arthur: Ngh...
Hybrid: Gyraawr!
Arthur: Shoot!
Arthur: Argh!
Tornelio: Arthur!
Arthur: Gah...
The hybrid's attack sends Arthur hurtling into stone.
Arthur: No... My sword...
His blade had slipped out of his grasp, wet with rain, sweat, and blood.
Hybrid: Gyrrr...
In the chaos, Arthur has no idea where his sword has disappeared to.
Arthur: At a time like this...
He turns to the sword embedded within the stone he had flown into.
Arthur: I'll just have to use this instead!
Arthur: It won't come out?
But the sword in the stone does not budge, no matter how hard Arthur pulls.
Rowley: Of course it won't come out, Arthur. You don't bear the right to free it!
The Strength To Wield - Chapter 6: To Be Strong and Kind - Episode 4
(Captain) and company finally arrive to help out Vane and his group, but the relief is short-lived as Mordred shields Arthur from a hybrid and takes a serious hit. Rowley is shocked to see Mordred injured and loses his composure, which gives Tornelio the chance to free himself and pin Rowley down. Arthur, holding Mordred in his arms, says he wishes he was as kind and as strong as Mordred, then he reaches out to pull the sword out of the stone. In an instant, Arthur is consumed by the sword's power, and (Captain) and company are forced to fight him.
Hybrid: Gyrrr!
Arthur: I can't fight back without a weapon...
Hybrid: Gyar...
Rowley: Arthur... It would be troublesome if you died now.
Arthur: What?
Vane: Hraah!
Hybrid: Gyrahhh...
Vane swoops in, quickly cutting down the hybrid eyeing Arthur.
Vane: Arthur, are you okay?
Arthur: Vice-Captain Vane, I... I dropped my sword, and I tried to take this one, but I couldn't pull it out.
Vane: Is it stuck?
Vane: Hrngh!
Vane: Yeah, that's stuck in there.
Rowley: Hahaha! Not in a million years would you be worthy of drawing that sword!
Vane: I'm not sure what's wrong with it, but we don't have time to be messing around with a weapon we can't use.
Vane: Arthur, can you stand?
Arthur: Yes, sir. Sorry, sir. I'm fine.
Vane: Good to hear it.
Vane: (Judging by what Rowley said, he doesn't intend to hurt Arthur.)
Vane: I'll take out some more hybrids. You stick to the plan.
Arthur: Yes, sir!
Once more, Vane moves away and brandishes his weapon at the hybrids.
Vyrn: There they are!
Henry: We finally found them!
Lyria: There's a lot of hybrids too!
Vane: (Captain)! Everyone! Am I glad to see your faces!
Mordred: Vice-Captain! We've got news to share, but for now, we'll help fight!
Vane: Thanks, Mordred!
Rowley: Mordred...
Mordred: Tornelio?
Mordred: Rowley, what are you doing!
Tornelio: Mordred, don't worry about me! Just help the others!
Mordred: What in the world is happening here?
Mordred: Hey, Rowley! Answer me!
Rowley: Wait, Mordred! I just... You...
Hybrid: Gyrawwr!
The hybrids appear to go wild as Rowley's attention shifts to Mordred.
Mordred: Arthur, watch out!
Arthur: Ah...
Hybrid: Gyraaar!
Mordred: Damn it!
Mordred throws himself in front of the hybrid, shoving Arthur away.
Arthur: !
Hybrid: Gyrawr!
Mordred: Argh!
Arthur: Mordred!
Mordred is sent tumbling back as the hybrid's claws rip into him, but Arthur is there to catch him before he falls.
Rowley: No, I didn't mean to... Mordred!
Rowley: I'm sorry, I... What do I do? I never wanted this...
Tornelio: Oh, now's my chance!
Tornelio: Like... this!
Rowley: Wha?
Taking advantage of Rowley's distracted state, Tornelio slips out of his grasp and flips the other boy to the ground.
Tornelio: I may be small and weak, but with the right technique, I can still twist your joints!
Rowley: Argh, you little...
Cruz: Tornelio, well done.
Tornelio: All that practice paid off.
Cruz: I'll keep him pinned. You go see to Mordred's wounds.
Tornelio: Okay!
As Tornelio leaves, Cruz takes his place and restrains Rowley.
Rowley: Is this some kind of joke? What are you doing?
Cruz: ...
Rowley: Say something, you worthless puppet!
Cruz: You stepped way out of line.
Cruz's quiet mutter goes unnoticed by everyone else, who are too preoccupied with their injured comrade.
Arthur: Mordred! Mordred, don't you die on me!
Mordred: Arthur, what... were you doing... standing around with no weapon?
Arthur: I'm sorry! I messed up, Mordred! Don't talk!
Mordred: Crying again, eh? How many times have I told you... Crying does nothing...
Mordred: Cough!
Arthur: The bleeding won't stop... Mordred!
Mordred: Don't cry, Arthur.
Mordred: You're kind, but don't forget about your strength.
Mordred: Kindness alone won't do you good...
Arthur: Mordred!
Tornelio: Arthur, move! I'll administer first aid!
Arthur: A-ah...
Pushed out of the way, Arthur shakily rises to his feet.
Arthur: You always get mad at me for crying and claim you don't understand me, but...
Arthur: But in the end, you always choose to save me...
Arthur: You're the one who's kind and strong!
Arthur: I...
As if possessed, Arthur's hand latches onto the handle of the sword in the stone.
Arthur: I wish I could be kind and strong like you, Mordred!
Lyria: Eep!
Vyrn: What's happening?
Vane: The hybrids...
Hybrid: Gyraaawwr!
Henry: What... just happened? Did the light wipe all the hybrids out?
Tornelio: Arthur?
Tornelio: Gaaah!
Vane: No you don't!
Vane catches Tornelio in his arms as the boy is blasted away.
Tornelio: Vice-Captain Vane!
Vane: You all right? What's going on?
Tornelio: I-I'm okay! I'll be fine, but I haven't finished patching up Mordred's wound...
Vane: Did you see what happened?
Tornelio: It was too bright to see clearly, but... I think Arthur managed to pull the sword out of the stone...
Vane: He did?
???: Ahhh...
Vane: (That light wiped out all the hybrids, but... What am I looking at?)
Tornelio: Is that truly the holy sword Excalibur?
???: Ahhh... Aaahhh!
Tornelio: Eep!
Vane: Rgh... Whatever it is...
Vane: We won't be able to get near Arthur and Mordred if we don't take care of it!
???: Aaaahh!
Tornelio: Th-that's... Arthur?
Vane: I'm not sure.
Vane: Cruz!
Cruz: Yes, sir.
Vane: Take Rowley and Tornelio and get out of here.
Cruz: Sir... What about you?
Vane: I'm going to save Arthur and Mordred.
Vane: You need to lead everyone else out of here and retreat to camp. If you deem things safe enough, get everyone off the mountain even.
Vane: You're in charge now, Cruz.
Cruz: Understood.
Vane: Awesome! Tornelio, give Cruz a hand too, okay?
Tornelio: Y-yes, sir!
Cruz: I'll handle Rowley. Tornelio, you round up Henry and the others and tell them what's going on.
Tornelio: You got it!
Lyria: Vane! What should we do?
Vane: I'd ask you to take care of the youngsters, but...
Vane chuckles at the piercing gaze (Captain) is giving him.
Vane: I'm afraid I'm gonna need you here. Will you help a friend out?
Choose: You don't even need to ask.
Vane: Thanks, (Captain)! I knew I could count on you!
Choose: That's what I'm here for.
Vane: Hahaha! I sure am glad I sent you that letter!
Continue 1Vane: All right, let's do this!
The Strength To Wield - Ending - Episode 1
Thanks to the holy sword's power, both the hybrids and the barrier are eliminated, and Vane helps free Arthur from the sword's power and returns him to his senses. From afar, Lamorak concludes Rowley's plan is a complete failure. Some days later, Arthur and company are back in the capital. In the infirmary, Mordred wakes to a tearful Arthur who proclaims he will get even stronger alongside Mordred. Once Arthur leaves the room, however, Mordred is preoccupied with the dream he had about someone named Ywain—a name that is hauntingly familiar.
Awoken Excalibur: Aaaahhh!
The light enveloping Arthur's body erupts into the sky.
Vyrn: Did you hear that? I think the barrier just broke!
Lyria: The rain cleared up too!
Vyrn: The light ain't leavin' Arthur's body though!
Awoken Excalibur: Ahh...
Vane: Arthur!
Vane wraps Arthur's body in a hug.
Vane: That's enough! Come back to us, Arthur!
Awoken Excalibur: Ughh...
The light fades from Arthur, reduced to only a faint glow around the blade in his grasp.
Arthur: Argh...
Vane: Arthur! Talk to me!
Arthur: Vice-Captain Vane?
Vane: Yeah, that's me. How are you feeling?
Arthur: The sword... What was I...
Vane: You did good. Thanks to you, all the hybrids are gone.
Arthur: I did that?
Vane: Yeah, it was super impressive! We owe you one.
Arthur: Mordred... Take care of... Mordred...
Vane: Oof, guess that's his limit.
Vane catches the unconscious Arthur in his arms.
The sword that falls from Arthur's grip is now devoid of light.
Vane: What in the skies is this sword?
Vane: Wait, first things first...
Carrying Arthur, Vane approaches Mordred.
Mordred: ...
Vane: He seems out of immediate danger. Tornelio did a good job.
Vane: Should get him to a proper bed as soon as possible though.
Vane: Up you go!
Still cradling Arthur, Vane lifts Mordred onto his back.
Vane: Now let's meet up with the others and get off this mountain.
Vane: Ngh!
Lyria: Vane, please don't push yourself!
Vyrn: You sure you can carry both of 'em? You're pretty beat up too...
Choose: Let me help.
Vane: I appreciate the offer, but this is my duty.
Vane: You see... Whenever someone's hurting or having a tough time, I wanna be the guy that's there for them.
Vane: I have to work on being the last one standing, no matter what happens.
Lyria: That's what it means to be strong for you, doesn't it?
Vane: Yeah! I'll be there to carry you or (Captain) too whenever you need a helping hand!
Flashing his friends a dependable grin, Vane leads the way down the mountain.
Lamorak: Well, well... I suppose this ended in failure.
Lamorak: The original goal was to gauge the two boys' strengths and determine the possibility of manifesting the sheath...
Lamorak: Now Feendrache has the sword instead.
Lamorak: Rowley, this might be a serious blow to our liege.
Lamorak: (However, I do have to wonder why Arthur was able to withdraw the sword.)
Lamorak: (Could Merlin not have foreseen this?)
Lamorak: Regardless, I am nothing more than an observer this time around.
Lamorak: All that's left to do is relay the situation to Merlin and await new orders.
Merlin: A crack formed...
Merlin peers at a decorated emblem the size of his palm, his eyebrows furrowed.
A small crack now mars the brim of it.
Merlin: (The seal I placed on the two babes when I hid them is beginning to unravel...)
Merlin: What would Uther say if he were still alive?
Merlin: Arthur... Is this truly the path you wish to take?
Merlin: I had hoped we could avoid it.
Only silence answers his sorrowful whisper.
Merlin: Pant...
Merlin glances behind himself as he struggles through haggard breaths.
Merlin: The castle...
Flames completely overtake the ancient castle.
Merlin: King Uriens!
Anguish filling his voice, he clutches the two babies in his arms tightly.
Crying Baby: Goo-gah, waaahh...
Merlin: Please don't cry, Arthur. Keep silent for a little while longer.
Merlin: It's okay... Everything will be okay... I swear I will protect you and Ywain...
Merlin: I won't die here—not while matters remain unsettled!
Merlin: Our country's suffering will not be for naught, King Uriens...
Merlin: Arthur, Ywain... I swear Feendrache will pay for what they've done!
Mordred: Nngh... Nn?
Arthur: Mordred!
Mordred: Arthur?
Arthur: Thank goodness... You're finally awake...
Mordred: Are you... crying again?
Arthur: Hiccup... Only for now, okay?
Arthur: I'm done letting my tears blind me... Getting other people hurt because of me!
Mordred: So stop crying then.
Arthur: I'll only shed my tears in front of you.
Mordred: What? No. I don't want you tearing up in front of me either.
Arthur: Well too bad. Yell at me all you want—I know you'll still forgive me for it.
Arthur: Besides... I have to shed your share of tears since no one else will.
Mordred: You don't need to do that...
Arthur: Mordred, I've decided I'm going to get stronger so I can stay by your side.
Arthur: We promised to grow stronger together, remember?
Mordred: If that's all the conviction you can muster, then you'll never catch up.
Arthur: Just watch me. We'll make it far together.
Mordred: ...
Arthur: Ah, sorry. You're probably still tired since you just woke up, right?
Arthur: I'll go tell everyone the good news. You stay put, Mordred.
Mordred: ...
After Arthur scrambles out of the room, Mordred slowly sits up on his bed.
Mordred: My name is Mordred. So then who...
Merlin: Ywain...
Mordred: Who is that?
Gentle sunlight spills onto the sheets, in stark contrast to the worry clouding Mordred's mind.
Despite all that has happened, the world outside is unchanged.
But for Mordred, a sinking feeling that he has stepped onto an unknown path gnaws at his thoughts...
Without anyone to confide in, he can only clench the sheets of his bed in his fists.
The End
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