Aura Gate 2 Subjugated Realm Story (31F to 40F)
Floor 31
Entrance
Xana: Ixaya's gone again.
Xana: Damn idiot won't stay in one place.
Xana: ...
Xana: So, are you curious about what I actually am?
CHOICE: I am.
Xana: Right. I guess it's only natural.
CHOICE: I don't care.
Xana: If that's your attitude, now I kinda wanna talk about it.
END OF CHOICE
Xana: I wasn't trying to hide it or anything, I just wasn't sure myself.
Xana: But it's like Ixaya said. I don't think I'm a Hollow.
CHOICE: Then what are you?
CHOICE: Are you human?
> Both choices lead to the same conclusion.
END OF CHOICE
Xana: Well, actually I'm an alien from outer space.
Xana: ...Sorry, just kidding.
Xana: Soul fragments from the Dragon Stream. Spirit entities that weren't able to become human.
Xana: These shapeless entities dreamed of becoming human and were given shape by the power of Aura.
Xana: That's how the Hollows were born.
Xana: In that sense, my own birth was not so different.
Xana: I can only remember it very vaguely, but I used to float around in the Dragon Stream as well.
Xana: But unlike the other Hollows, while I was fascinated with humans, I never wanted to become one myself.
Xana: Plus, I was born way after the other Hollows.
Xana: As far as I know, every Hollow in all of the five Realms was born simultaneously.
Xana: I'm not sure when it was. Years, decades, or maybe even centuries ago.
Xana: They just suddenly came into existence one day, along with this Hollow World.
Xana: But I... I was given this shape, just a few seconds before I met you.
CHOICE: Huh?
CHOICE: You're kidding again, right?
> Both choices lead to the same conclusion.
END OF CHOICE
Xana: I'm telling the truth.
Xana: I met you in the Harmonious Realm right after I was born.
Xana: In that moment, my wish to observe humans came true.
Xana: I was given this body and sufficient knowledge to converse with humans.
Xana: And of course, I was given the chance to meet you.
Xana: I'm sure that's how it happened.
CHOICE: I see.
Xana: You must be pretty smart, then. I don't even get it myself.
CHOICE: I don't get it at all.
Xana: Yeah, me neither.
END OF CHOICE
Xana: I wonder what this place really is, this so-called Aura Gate.
Xana: But hey, we're not gonna find out by standing here talking, so let's get a move on.
Xana: This is the fourth Realm of the Hollows.
Xana: I think it's called the Subjugated Realm.
NPC Encounters
Hollow man: We have the Subjugated Realm all work in harmony.
Hollow man: Yes! Work is fun! Such fun!
Hollow woman: Humans all work. So I want to work too.
Hollow woman: That's why we here at the Subjugated Realm all work!
Hollow woman: Right now I'm working on counting my split hair ends! It's hard work, but I'll do my best!
Hollow man: *Sigh* God, I'm busy!
Hollow man: Don't you dare bother me while I'm working!
> The Hollow keeps on running nonstop.
Hollow woman: I hear that if you work hard, you can "win" in life.
Hollow woman: I've no idea what that means, but it sure sounds nice!
Hollow woman: Okay! I'm going to be a "winner" too!
Hollow man: I'm in charge of security on this floor. It's a very rewarding job.
Xana: I see. How very diligent of you.
Hollow man: So, you look kind of suspicious. You're not from this Realm, are you?
Hollow man: As chief of security, I cannot permit trespassing. I will have you eradicate you if you don't leave.
Xana: That was sudden!
> Found an enemy icon. (Ippon-Datara) Fight enemy?
> Fight and win.
Hollow man: You're... more dangerous than I thought...
Hollow man: Forgive me, boss... I was unable to fulfill my duty...
> The Hollow loses consciousness.
Xana: ...Working is quite the hardship. I feel kinda sorry for humans now.
Hollow man: Huh? Haven't seen you around before.
Hollow man: You must be the new guy!
CHOICE: Whaaa?
> Ends conversation.
CHOICE: Yes Sir!
Hollow man: That's the spirit! You got potential kid. We'll make something outta you yet!
Hollow man: Alright, here's a job for ya. Take this key, and go down to the next level!
> Obtained Key to 31F Boss.
Hollow man: Huh? What for? How dare you talk back to me!
Hollow man: Ya don't get to ask questions around here, so don't gimme none of that lip! Just do as you're told!
Xana: ...It's no use. He won't even listen. Is management always like this?
END OF CHOICE
> If you try to talk to the Hollow that gave you the key to 31F again...
Hollow man: Are you still here? Stop loiterin' and pick up the pace!
Hollow man: Get your ass movin'! Time is money ya know!
Hollow man: This is the Subjugated Realm. Who are you subjugated to?
Hollow man: No one? So you're at the top?
Hollow man: That means you're the... the CEO?
Boss Intro
Suited Man: Get a move on, you slackers! We haven't met this month's quota yet, ya hear me?!
Hollow Worker: Y-Yes boss! Right on it boss!
Suited Man: Keep to the schedule! No delays! No excuses!
Hollow Worker: Yes sir! I'll work till I drop, sir!
Xana: A-A human?!
Xana: I didn't expect to find a human other than you here.
Suited Man: What the? Who the hell are you?! No unauthorized entry allowed, ya hear?!
Suited Man: Get lost! Scram!
> The man changes into a demon!
Post Boss
Xana: Who would've thought, a demon in disguise.
Xana: But why go to all that trouble?
Hollow Worker: Nooooo, the boss!
Hollow Worker: What have you done?!
Xana: Wait, that was a demon. We took it out, so you're safe now.
Hollow Worker: That was totally uncalled for!
Hollow Worker: Without the boss... what are we to do?
Xana: Wasn't that demon forcing you to work against your will?
Hollow Worker: No, we love work! It makes us happy!
Hollow Worker: Humans are like that too, right? They live for their work!
Hollow Worker: That must be it. Work is happiness...
Xana: ...
Floor 32
NPC Encounters
> You come upon a gathering of demons and Hollows.
Demon (Decarabia): Interviews will now begin. Calling applicant number one.
Hollow man: That's me! I would very much like to work for you, mister demon!
Demon (Decarabia): You don't have any prior experience, correct? Do you understand what this job entails?
Demon (Decarabia): Since I'm a demon, it is only natural that I force Hollows to work.
Demon (Decarabia): And if I get hungry, I snack on them. Is this going to be a problem for you?
Hollow man: Not at all! I always give 110% to anything I undertake!
Hollow man: Kill all the Hollows, I say. Every last one of them! That's the kind of dedication and enthusiasm that I tackle any job with!
Demon (Decarabia): Uhm... I think you need to rethink your priorities...
> Talk to the interviewing Hollow again...
Hollow man: I got the job? So what will I be doing?
Hollow man: I'll do my best no matter what!
Demon (Decarabia): Very well then...
Demon (Decarabia): I'm kind of hungry right now. You'll be my meal!
Hollow man: Yes, sir! Please enjoy me to the fullest!
Demon (Decarabia): What the hell... That's actually kind of impressive, in a weird sort of way...
Hollow man: Hey, you're a human!
Hollow man: We've received reports of a human going on a rampage in these parts!
Xana: A rampage? Us?
Hollow man: The report said a rampaging human, so don't try to deny it!
Hollow man: I'm just doing my job as security around here. You will now be exterminated.
Xana: Well, you heard him. Feel like dying today?
> Found an enemy icon. (Archangel) Fight enemy?
> Fight and win.
Xana: Alright, that takes care of your demons. Still feel like "exterminating" us?
Hollow man: Dammit! My shift just ended!
Hollow man: HR doesn't let us do overtime unless we apply for it in advance. Which means I'm off!
Hollow man: Gotta love flextime!
> The Hollow skitters off.
Xana: What the hell was that? "Flextime", my ass.
Xana: But hey, I don't think we've been causing THAT much trouble, have we?
Xana: Then again, you ARE the only human that's here in this world... right?
Hollow man: Suck it up, people! Work harder! We're all "winners" around here, ya hear me?
Hollow man: I don't care what it is y'all do, just so long as it's work. We LIVE TO WORK!
> If you choose to talk to the bossy Hollow again...
Hollow man: Quit slacking off! We need to meet our quarterly revenue target!
Hollow man: Anyone who doesn't meet their targets doesn't deserve to have any time off!
Hollow man: ...You have a problem? Don't complain, WORK!
> A Hollow sidles up to you...
Hollow man: Psst. Hey, you there. I've got a job for you.
CHOICE: Sounds dodgy...
Hollow man: Nuthin' dodgy about it at all. I just want you to deliver something.
CHOICE: Alright.
END OF CHOICE
> The Hollow thrusts a package into your hands.
Hollow man: I want ya to deliver this to someone on Floor 33.
Hollow man: They're...
Hollow man: ...Shit! Looks like they're on to me. Sorry, but I gotta split.
Hollow man: It's all up to you now!
> The Hollow slinks away.
Hollow man: This is a Save Point. They're pretty handy. Wanna give it a try?
> Tutorial text explaining that a "save point" is an alternate location to enter the floor from. This is particularly handy as the floors starting from Free Realm are gigantic, and stamina for exploring dungeons is limited but regenerates over time.
Hollow woman: The Key? Sure, I have it.
Hollow woman: But I can't just give it to you without permission!
Hollow woman: I don't know what this Key's for, but I do know that I'm not allowed to give it away!
Hollow woman: So d-don't ask me! Please go and ask my manager!
> You come upon some arguing Hollows.
Hollow man 1: As I said, our primary agenda should be our Mission Pyramid! It's an absolute must!
Hollow man 2: No! We need to share our resources and grow the product!
Hollow man 3: These guys are so business savvy I have no idea what they're talking about!
Hollow man: I wake up from a nap, same as usual, and suddenly people are calling me a "loser".
Hollow man: I don't understand. How can one "win" or "lose" without doing anything?
Hollow man: You want the Key? Why? Is getting the Key your job?
Hollow man: Well, if you really want it, there's something I want you to help with in return.
Hollow man: Our job is the management of "Save Points".
Hollow man: One of 'em is in an area that's since been settled by demons, so it had to be turned off.
Hollow man: If you drive the demons out for me, then I'll give you the key.
Hollow man: That way, we all come out on top! It's a win-win for everyone!
> You hear the sound of something unlocking.
Hollow man: There. I've turned it on.
Hollow man: You can reach the Save Point in question by warping to the southwest of here.
Hollow man: It'll be a win-win for everyone!
> You reach the demons guarding the save point as requested...
Raijyu: Say what now? Whaddaya mean, "Move on"?
Raijyu: We ain't takin' orders from no human! And I ain't never heard of no "Save whatchamacallit"!
Xana: I thought this would happen. So there's no other way but to...
> Found an enemy icon. (Raijyu) Fight enemy?
Raijyu: ARGGHH! Y-Y'all are usin' violence to get what you--
> The demon collapses.
Xana: Well, it ended as it always does.
Xana: But we've done what we came here to do.
Xana: Let's head back and report this to the supervisor.
> Returning to the Hollow supervisor...
Hollow man: Oh wow! So you actually drove the demons away from the Save Point, I see!
Hollow man: Please collect the Key from my subordinate. This is a win-win situation for both parties.
Hollow man: Oh, by the way. Do you happen to know what a Save Point actually does?
> Returning to the Hollow supervisor's subordinate...
Hollow woman: You got permission from my manager? Really?
Hollow woman: Alright then, I'll give you the Key.
> Obtained Key to 32F Boss.
Hollow woman: Looking after that Key was my job. Now that I've given it to you...
Hollow woman: Does that mean I'm unemployed?
Boss Intro
Hollow worker: *Pant* I... need a break.
Suited woman: Oh, you're fine. Just hang in there a bit longer, okay?
Hollow worker: O-Okay... But I, I've already worked 256 hours of overtime this month and...
Suited woman: That's nothing. You have to put in the effort if you want to make your dreams a reality.
Hollow worker: A-Alright. I'll try.
Xana: Wow. Talk about working like a slave.
Suited woman: Excuse me, can I help you?
Suited woman: And why are you mocking someone who's working so hard to fulfill their dreams?
Xana: Dreams, huh?
Xana: As I recall, humans often use that word to deceive themselves... and others.
Suited woman: Just who the hell do you think you are?! I will not condone this mockery of dreams!
> The woman changes into a demon!
Post Boss
Xana: Another demon. Just as I thought.
Xana: Demons disguised as humans, taking advantage of Hollows.
Xana: I think that just about sums up what's going on in this Realm.
???: *Sneer* "Taking advantage of?" You're so full of it.
???: All I see are winners and losers. Just like in real life.
Xana: Who's there?!
Hayate: Long time no see, Liberator. Well, I guess it hasn't been THAT long.
CHOICE: Hayate?!
CHOICE: I thought you were dead?
> Both choices lead to the same conclusion.
END OF CHOICE
Hayate: Heh, if you could only see the stupid look on your face.
Hayate: That alone was worth the trouble of coming back from the dead.
Xana: Acquaintance of yours?
Hayate: Oh, we're VERY well acquainted.
Hayate: After all, this is the very person that killed me.
Hayate: Isn't that right, Liberator?
CHOICE: Damn straight it is. (Chaos alignment points)
Hayate: Haha, I guess killing some bad guy ain't something that weighs on your conscience.
CHOICE: I didn't kill you. (Law alignment points)
Hayate: Yeah, you're right.
Hayate: I killed myself. Losers are better off dead, right?
END OF CHOICE
Hayate: What an attitude. You disgust me.
Xana: I don't know what's going on here, but I get the feeling you probably deserved to die. My condolences.
Xana: And? What's a dead guy doing here?
Hayate: Who knows. I thought I'd gone to hell, but that doesn't seem to be the case. So what the hell IS this place?
Xana: This is part of the Aura Gate. It is the world of Hollows.
Hayate: Hollows? Oh, those losers groveling over there?
Hayate: Hey you! Yeah, you! Fake human thingie!
Hollow worker: M-Me?
Hayate: Come with me.
Hayate: You want to serve someone, right? You can call me, Hayate, your boss then.
Hollow worker: Y-Yes boss! As you wish, Boss Hayate!
Xana: What are you up to?
Hayate: If this ain't hell, then I'm gonna make the most of it.
Hayate: And since it looks like there's no shortage of minions here, I think I've been dealt a winning hand this time around.
> With that, Hayate walks off with the Hollows.
Floor 33
Entrance
Xana: Hmmm, things just got complicated.
Xana: The appearance of someone who's neither a living human nor a Hollow...
Xana: I wonder if Ixaya's behind this, or...
Xana: But you know, he was quite different than you even though you're both human.
Xana: Intriguing...
NPC Encounters
Hollow man: Are you human, too? Another human just passed by here earlier.
Hollow man: He beat up a bunch of demons. Humans can be pretty scary at times.
Hollow woman: You're useless! Put your back into it already!
Hollow man: Ouch! T-There's no need for violence! Calm down!
Hollow woman: Calm? You want me to be calm? Then show me some RESULTS already, loser!
Hollow man: Dammit. Just you wait. I won't be your subordinate forever!
> You come across a demon standing in your path.
Chagrin: ...
Xana: Not YOU again. This is becoming a pain in the ass.
Xana: Let me guess. You have the Key, but if we don't fight for it, you won't hand it ov--
Chagrin: You would be wise to leave this place, human. For I possess no Key.
Xana: Wha--?
Chagrin: I have spent much time training, and ultimately I reached enlightenment.
Chagrin: Conflict is inherently meaningless. Leave now, human.
Xana: I-It's... It's...
Xana: This demon is like, TOTALLY different from before, right? Whoa, how freaky. Total psych, yo.
CHOICE: Like, TOTALLY!
Xana: Yeowch. Alright, I'll stop.
CHOICE: You're acting strange yourself.
END OF CHOICE
Xana: So what the hell are we gonna do? Doesn't look like he has the Key.
Chagrin: There is no shame in retreat. Do not throw your lives away so rashly.
> Found an enemy icon. (Chagrin) Fight enemy?
> This time, Chagrin is at level 77 and has three unique skills... Super Hammer Fist (Phys) that does 80 power damage on random foes four times with a 15% chance of instant death. Hyper Spark Blast (Elec) that does 100 power damage on all enemies with pierce. Ultimate Mega Shield which heals all party members with 100 power and casts Luster Candy.
> ...but even with all of that, he's still a pushover compared to the bosses on these floors.
> Fight and win
Chagrin: OUCH! You sonuvabitch!
Xana: Oh look. It's back to normal.
Chagrin: Next time man! Next time I'll show you who's boss! Just you wait and see!
> The demon runs away.
Xana: It really didn't have a Key. Still, I don't think we've seen the last of it.
Xana: Maybe the third time will be the charm? No... Wait. We've run into it more than three times already.
Xana: It gets a bit stronger each time we run into it too...
Xana: Hey, mind if I do the running away next time?
> You show the Hollow child the package you're carrying.
Hollow child: What's this?! Is it... Is it from daddy?
Hollow child: Daddy's always away on business trips. But he promised he'd get me a present!
Hollow child: He was on Floor 32, right? That's my daddy!
> You hand over the package.
Hollow child: Whoah! Awesome!
Hollow child: It's a Mohawk Wig!
> The child puts the wig on.
> Inexplicably, the child's appearance changes into that of a Buff Hollow.
Buff Hollow: WoooT!
Buff Hollow: Whaddaya think? How's it look? My daddy is the best!
Buff Hollow: If you see him again, can you tell him I said thanks? And to come home soon!
Buff Hollow: Oh and tell him I'm doing okay, even though there's a lotta demons around here.
> If you try talking to the buff, mohawked Hollow child again...
Buff Hollow: Don't forget, okay?
Buff Hollow: Tell daddy I said thanks! And to hurry up and come home already!
Buff Hollow: Daddy's working on Floor 32.
New Dialogue in Previous Floors
> Return to floor 32 to meet again with the shady Hollow that gave you the package...
Hollow man: Hey, you there! Did you deliver that package to my son?
Hollow man: Whew. I would've done it myself, but I couldn't get the time off work.
Hollow man: It was all I could do just to sneak out long enough to ask you to do it.
> Obtained Key to 33F Boss.
Hollow man: Thanks for delivering that package. Here's a little something in return.
Hollow man: So... My kid's still alive. I hope I get to see them again soon.
Hollow man: Anyways, see ya!
> Return to speak with Hollow woman counting split hair ends on floor 31.
Hollow woman: So, what sort of work do you do?
Hollow woman: Y-You're a Liberator? You fight demons? You risk your life?
Hollow woman: T-That sounds like it breaks every labor regulation in the book! You should quit while you have the chance!
> Return to speak with the subordinate on floor 32.
Hollow woman: What? The boss was a demon?!
Hollow woman: Like I need you to tell me that! All bosses are demons!
> Return to the Hollow that gave you the key to 31F...
Hollow ghost: I thought I told you to pick up the pace!
Hollow ghost: Now them demons got me while you were out dawdlin'!
Hollow ghost: How're ya gonna fix this mess? Ya think this is a joke? Well, think again!
Floor 34
NPC Encounters
Hollow woman: Some human called Hayate came through here. He was recruiting Hollows.
Hollow woman: I wonder what for? Maybe he's going to start a company or something?
Hollow man: Yeah! Boss Hayate really kicks ass! He's so cool!
Hollow man: Are you really human too? But you're so different from the Boss.
Hollow man: You should try to get a bit stronger. Be more like Boss Hayate!
> You come across an injured Hollow.
Hollow man: Dammit... I managed to escape from the office but some demons attacked me.
Hollow man: I somehow got away, but not before they did this to me. I-I'm a goner...
Hollow man: B-But if I die here, t-they'll...
Hollow man: ...
> The Hollow has breathed its last breath.
> A Hollow is lifting heavy-looking sacks.
Hollow man: Heave-ho! *grunts*
Hollow man: I put the merchandise on the conveyor belt and away it goes.
Hollow man: It's pretty wide, so watch your step, alright?
> A Hollow is carrying a heavy-looking sack.
Hollow man: Pee-ew! This stuff reeks!
Hollow man: But keeping the customers happy is all that matters. Just gotta grin and bear it.
Hollow man: I'm the manager of this supply chain.
Hollow man: We take great pride in meeting our client's needs and delivering on time, every time!
Hollow man: Who's our client? That's strictly confidential!
> It's one of those sacks that the Hollow was carrying.
> It emits a pungent odor.
> Probably better off not looking inside.
Kelpie: Oh, it's chow time already. What's on the menu today--
Kelpie: What's this?!? This meal is still alive!
Kelpie: And on top of that, it's human. *Sigh* Those Hollows can't do anything right.
Kelpie: Well, I WAS thinking about eating healthier...
Kelpie: As they say, variety is the spice of life. Time to dig in!
> Found an enemy icon. (Kelpie) Fight enemy?
> Fight and win.
Kelpie: Today's food had some kick to it. A little... too much... kick...
> The demon disintegrates into nothingness.
Xana: Demon food? But that means...
Xana: So then those sacks were... Ah, it all makes sense now.
> Return to the Hollow manager...
Hollow man: Oh no, our client is dead! This will have a huge impact on business!
Hollow man: Given the cheap quality of our product, who else is going to want it?
Hollow man: Gah! Here, you wretches. Take the Key. Take it! And get out of my sight!
> Obtained Key to 34F Boss.
Hollow man: Damn it, what the hell am I supposed to do now?!
> If you try talking to the Hollow manager again...
Hollow man: I've given you the Key, you wretches. Now get lost!
Hollow man: Damn it, what the hell am I supposed to do now?!
> Return to one of the Hollows carrying the sacks...
Hollow man: What's that? I shouldn't do this sort of job?
Hollow man: Hey, demons have gotta eat to, ya know.
Hollow man: Besides, what about you guys? You need to eat to survive too, right?
> Return to the other Hollow carrying the sacks...
Hollow man: What? Do I know what was in those sacks? Of course I do.
Hollow man: Manual labor ain't exactly fun, but work is work, y'know?
Hollow man: How about your job then? Don't you get your hands dirty sometimes as well?
> Return to the Hollow cheering for Boss Hayate...
Hollow man: What? Why didn't I go with Hayate? Oh, I couldn't possibly do something like that.
Hollow man: If I made a decision like that, then I'd be responsible for my own actions, wouldn't I?
Hollow man: I couldn't stand that. I'm content just doing as I'm told.
Boss Intro
Suited man: We still haven't made our revenue target for this quarter! And it's all because you people haven't been putting in the hard yards!
Hollow Loser: U-Understood boss! We'll try to get better results next time!
Suited man: When will you losers ever learn?! Ya gotta be more productive!
Hollow Loser: R-Right boss! We'll do our best to become better workers!
Hayate: Hmmmm. How about YOU lead by example then, boss man.
Suited man: W-Who the hell?! I'll call security!
Hayate: Cut the act, demon.
Hayate: Disguising yourself as a human to control fake ones? What a joke.
Suited man: ...
> The man changes into a demon.
Demon (Orcus): But don't you think that these Hollows are the real joke?
Demon (Orcus): The Hollows in this Realm are all losers.
Demon (Orcus): Losers must serve winners, that is the meaning of their existence.
Demon (Orcus): And it is the losers themselves that seek this.
Demon (Orcus): They desire only to follow mindlessly. That is why they let their superiors make their decisions for them. So they can just obey orders.
Demon (Orcus): They are losers because they have a losing mindset.
Demon (Orcus): All I did was grant them their wish, and in return I received their everlasting loyalty.
Hayate: *Sneer* What a load of crap.
Demon (Orcus): What?!
Hayate: Loyalty? That's nothing more than an act.
Hayate: You don't get it, do you? The weak are always lying in wait.
Hayate: Just waiting for a chance to bring down those that are stronger than them.
Demon (Orcus): How is it that you're so certain of this?
Hayate: Oh, I'm certain. You see, I used to be a loser too.
Hayate: C'mon you maggots. I'M your boss now.
Hayate: Rise up and bring that guy down!
Hollow Loser: Y-Yeah! I've had it with the old boss!
Hollow Loser 2: That's right! I'd rather be on the winning team!
Demon (Orcus): Grrr! You damn Hollows...!
Hayate: Hey, Liberator.
Hayate: Don't just stand there. Come help us get rid of some demons!
Post Boss
Hayate: Thanks for that. Saved me a lot of trouble.
Hayate: Not that I couldn't have handled them on my own.
Xana: Hayate, what are you after? Why incite the Hollows like this?
Hayate: I'm not sure really. But becoming the ruler of this Realm kinda sounds nice.
Hayate: No matter where I go, I want to be on the winning side.
Hayate: I'm sick of losing.
CHOICE: Let it go man.
CHOICE: There are no winners or losers.
> Both choices lead to the same conclusion.
END OF CHOICE
Hayate: Jabo Kakuryu used to say that too.
Hayate: He said we wanted to show me a world without winners and losers.
Hayate: But unfortunately, I can't even imagine such a world.
Hayate: Alright, I'm outta here.
Hayate: Stay outta my business, okay? If we have to fight again, I'm gonna win.
> Hayate leaves.
Floor 35
Entrance
Xana: Hmmmm... it seems that humans all have very different personalities.
Xana: Intriguing indeed...
Xana: Uhmm... That Hayate guy, he was a bad person, right?
CHOICE: Yeah. (Law alignment points)
Xana: Ah, just as I thought.
CHOICE: Why do you ask?
Xana: Nothing. I was just thinking...
END OF CHOICE
Xana: You're probably a good person, right? Even though sometimes it does feel like an act.
Xana: You're the only real human I know.
Xana: So since that guy is so different from you, I... how should I put this...
Xana: Can't get him off my mind.
CHOICE: You've fallen in love?
Xana: Love? I wouldn't know. I have no idea what that's like.
Xana: ...
CHOICE: He's bad news.
Xana: ...
END OF CHOICE
NPC Encounters
Hollow man: Damn it! That guy who up and disappeared had the damn Key on him!
Hollow man: I've looked everywhere and there's no sign of him. Since I'm his boss, they're gonna give me hell for this.
Hollow man: Don't tell me you want the Key too? If that's the case, I'll take care of you myself!
> Found an enemy icon. (Pellaidh) Fight enemy?
> Fight and win.
Hollow man: What?! You defeated my demons?!
Hollow man: Alright, so you're looking for the Key too. I get it. You've made your point.
Hollow man: Look, err... From now on, you can be in charge of the Key, okay? Don't forget to find the other ones, too!
> The Hollow splits.
> You hear something opening somewhere.
Hollow man: I'm the team manager here.
Hollow man: It's my job to make sure that all my subordinates are happy.
Hollow man: Just look at them! Look at how happy everyone looks!
Hollow woman: We pride ourselves in having a laid back workplace.
Hollow woman: Everyone that works here gets along really well.
Hollow woman: We all work so well together.
Hollow woman: Why don't you try working here, too? There's plenty to do.
Hollow woman: At the moment, we're busy digging holes, and after that we need to get started on filling them in.
Hollow woman: It never ends, so there's always more than enough work to go around.
Hollow ghost man: Don't be deceived...
Hollow ghost man: There is a room... a hidden room...
> Within a hidden room in the Hollow's workplace...
> You come across a Hollow, worn out and broken.
Hollow man: This is where they keep Hollows that are unable to work anymore.
Hollow man: They say that this is what humans do. I didn't know humans could be so cruel...
Hollow man: ...
> A Hollow lies dead.
Xana: What's this?
> A Key lies gleaming on the ground next to the body.
> Obtained Key to 35F Boss.
> (Another dead Hollow is in this room, but has nothing on them.)
> You come across a Hollow, worn out and broken.
Hollow woman: Arrrgh! You're from management, right?
Hollow woman: No, I'm never going back out there ever again! I don't want to work anymore!
> You return from the hidden room to the room where the three Hollows in management had gathered.
Hollow man: Oh, you saw the room out back?
Hollow man: That's where we put the underachievers. In other words, the "losers".
Hollow man: I have no time to spare for losers!
Hollow man: Alright now everyone, it's time to work! Smile! Be happy in your work!
Hollow woman: We pride ourselves in having a laid back workplace.
Hollow woman: Everyone that works here gets along really well.
Hollow woman: Except for those that don't pull their weight.
Hollow woman: Why don't you try working here too? There's plenty to do.
Hollow woman: Our workers keep quitting on us so there's more than enough work to go around.
Boss Intro
> Defeated demons lay scattered across the ground.
Hayate: Took you long enough to get here, Liberator.
Xana: Do you really mean to rule this Realm?
Hayate: I'm not interested in ruling over a bunch of fake humans just to give my ego a boost, but I figure giving it a try might be kinda fun.
Hollow Underling: We'll follow you anywhere, boss!
Hollow Underling 2: Please lead us!
Hayate: See what I mean?
Hayate: How about it, missy? Want to come, too?
Xana: ...!
CHOICE: Xana, no!
Xana: (Player Name), I...
Hayate: You got a problem, Liberator?
CHOICE: Stop her by force.
END OF CHOICE
Hayate: Okay then, let's settle this the old fashioned way.
Hayate: It's not every day you get a second shot at an old rivalry, so we might as well, right?
Hayate: Devil... download!
Post Boss
Hayate: Argh! You think you've won? This ain't over yet.
Xana: Please stop!
Xana: I'm going with Hayate.
CHOICE: Huh?!
CHOICE: Why?!
> Both choices lead to the same conclusion.
END OF CHOICE
Xana: Didn't I tell you?
Xana: I have no wish to become human.
Xana: I just want to learn more about them.
Xana: That's why I want to see what this guy is like, because he's so different from you.
Hayate: So you're willing to obey me?
Xana: No, I'm not like these Hollows that follow you.
Xana: I obey no one.
Hayate: Heh, alright. That could be interesting.
Hayate: Hey, Liberator!
Hayate: It's settled. We're leaving together.
Hayate: Don't hold this against me, alright?
Xana: Goodbye. We'll meet again, if we survive.
> Hayate and Xana leave...
Floor 36
Entrance
> Xana and company are nowhere to be seen.
Ixaya: Oh my.
Ixaya: You got dumped, Savior.
> Ixaya appears, seemingly out of nowhere.
Ixaya: But I think it's for the best.
Ixaya: She's such an anomaly. Dangerous, even.
Ixaya: You saw for yourself how unpredictable she is.
Ixaya: And to tell the truth, I just can't bring myself to like her.
Ixaya: She wouldn't help someone in need unless she had an ulterior motive. She'd just abandon them.
Ixaya: She looks cute and all, but she's kind of a rotten person.
CHOICE: Shut it.
Ixaya: Sorry. I didn't mean to make you mad.
CHOICE: You might have a point.
Ixaya: I'm glad you can see my point. You're the best, Savior.
END OF CHOICE
Ixaya: Oh, and that Hayate, he was an unexpected surprise.
Ixaya: Didn't you have a beef with him or something?
Ixaya: I'm sure that's what might've summoned him here.
Ixaya: In that sense, he's just like Xana. An anomaly.
Ixaya: I'm kind of worried he might become a liability to my plans...
Ixaya: But for now, I think I'll wait and see how things unfold.
Ixaya: I want to see who'll come out the winner in this Realm full of losers.
NPC Encounters
> You come across a Hollow with two Hollow girls.
Hollow Child 1: Look, daddy, sis! Over there! It's a human!
Hollow Child 2: Wow! It really is! A really real human!
Hollow Child 1: I wanna be human too! How can I become human, daddy?
Hollow Child 2: Me too! Me too!
Hollow Man: *Shhh!* Can't you see you're disturbing it? *Ahem* Human, welcome to this Realm!
Hollow Man: I'm a researcher specializing in the field of demons, although my daughters and I will be leaving this particular Realm shortly.
Hollow Man: If things keep heading the way they are, even my daughters will end up subjugated by the demons here.
Hollow Man: As their father, I cannot allow that to happen.
Hollow Child 2: Daddy, you're so sweet!
Hollow Child 1: We'll follow you wherever you go, daddy!
Hollow Man: Haha... I mean, shush! You're disturbing the human again!
Hollow Man: You would be well advised to leave this place too, human. Well then, farewell.
> The father departs with his daughters in tow.
Hollow Man: Hey, you there! Aren't you that human that was with the girl earlier?
Hollow Man: What happened to the girl? What? She left you?
Hollow Man: Ahahahaha, you got dumped! She dumped you!
Hollow Man: Hey, don't take it so hard. Here, try a hit of this. It'll help you to forget.
> Received Purge Extract Intelligence
> (Note: This and Ixaya's earlier 'dumped' dialogue is exactly the same between the girl main character and the boy main character of D2 Megaten. There are occasions where the dialogue and characters differ between the playable girl and boy in story events, but not in Aura Gate 2. Whether this is an accidental girl's love situation or something that a scenario planner elected to sneak in, we'll leave that up to the reader to decide.)
Hollow woman: This is the "Subjugated Realm".
Hollow woman: Being subjugated by others brings us peace and stability.
Hollow woman: Doesn't really matter who does the subjugating.
Hollow woman: Subjugation is liberation. It's what we all wish for deep down.
Hollow child: Welcome home, daddy!
Hollow woman: Welcome back, honey. Here, sit down. Would you like some coffee? Tea? Or...?
Hollow man: Hahaha. Coming home to you both is more than enough to wash the day's troubles away.
Hollow man: I'm so happy I chose to remain here with you rather than running off with that human.
Hollow woman: Oh, a human. Are you traveling alone?
Hollow woman: Would you mind if I tagged along? Hahaha, gotcha! Just kidding.
Hollow woman: Traveling with a human would be much too dangerous. I'd just get myself killed.
Hollow man: Is there an end to this realm?
Hollow man: I wonder what the realms beyond this one are called?
Hollow man: I often used to think about things like that.
Hollow man: But then I stopped thinking and became just another subjugated Hollow.
> Obtained Key to 36F Boss.
Hollow man: Here, take this. I don't need it anymore.
Hollow man: I know you'll make it. To the next realm. Even if you're the only one that's left.
Hollow man: That's what a human would do, I think.
Floor 37
Entrance
> Xana and company are nowhere to be seen.
NPC Encounters
Hollow man: I've come up with a new business opportunity! Could you help me out?
Hollow man: I want you to sell some of these "anti-demon charms" for me.
CHOICE: Do they work?
Hollow man: They're guaranteed to work as long as people believe in them. You gotta believe!
CHOICE: Sure.
END OF CHOICE
Hollow man: Sell them and I'll give you a Key. So do your best out there.
> If you choose to speak with the Hollow peddling charms again...
Hollow man: I want you to sell them to all the Hollows on this Floor!
Hollow man: I'm counting on you! So is my new company!
Hollow Man: I stand with Boss Hayate! We're gonna kill every last one of those demons!
Hollow Man: What? An anti-demon charm? What would I need something like that for?
Hollow Man: I'm gonna kill every last one of those demons with my own two hands!
Hollow Man: I'm done with being subjugated. I wanna be the one doing the subjugating.
Hollow Man: What? You're selling anti-demon charms?
Hollow Man: Relying on something like that would mean it has power over you, right?
Hollow Man: I'm not gonna be subjugated by no charm!
Hollow Man: Oh Hayate, please show us the way!
Hollow Man: We will follow you. We will dedicate ourselves to you so you may tell us what to do.
Hollow Man: ... ...waaait a minute...
Hollow Woman: Welcome to this Floor!
Hollow Woman: I'm the Floor Guide! *Grins*
Hollow Woman: What? You're selling anti-demon charms?
Hollow Woman: Sales of unauthorized goods are strictly prohibited!
Hollow Woman: Troublemakers are kindly requested to leave at once.
Hollow Woman: I was just about to be devoured by a demon when Hayate showed up and saved me.
Hollow Woman: What? An anti-demon charm? Why would I need something like that?
Hollow Woman: If you have any photos of Hayate for sale I might be interested, though!
> A Hollow is being chased by a demon.
Hollow Man: Oh no! I'm a goner! I'm a goner!
Hollow Man: What? An anti-demon charm? That's EXACTLY what I need right now! Quick, give it here!
> The Hollow throws the charm at the demon.
Demon (Orthrus): *Rooaaarr!!*
Hollow Man: Shit! It didn't do a damn thing! I think the demon's MORE pissed now!
Hollow Man: This is all your fault! YOU'RE the one that gave me that crappy charm, so now it's YOUR job to get rid of that demon!
> Found an enemy icon. (Orthrus) Fight enemy?
> Fight and win.
Hollow Man: Whew... That was close.
Hollow Man: What was with that charm, anyway? It had no effect on the demon at all!
Hollow Man: It's a total fake and I'm going to make sure that everyone else knows it!
> Fuming, the Hollow leaves.
> You report back to the peddler that the "anti-demon charms" did not sell.
Hollow Man: What? People were upset that the charms didn't work? They refused to buy any more?
Hollow Man: I thought these would be a sure-fire hit! Doing business sure ain't easy.
Hollow Man: Say what? Key? No, you don't get the Key because you didn't sell enough!
Hollow Man: Rewards only come with results! It's a cut-throat world out there, you know!
Hollow Man: I guess I'll try again on another Floor...
> The Hollow scurries off.
> You come across a Hollow with two Hollow girls.
Hollow Child 1: Sis! I think daddy's hurt?
Hollow Child 2: He was hurt when those demons attacked us. I don't know what to do...
Hollow Man: Ugh...
> The Hollow is dying.
Hollow Child 1: Help! S-Somebody help! Our daddy is dying!
> You use a healing skill on the Hollow.
Hollow Man: U-Ugh... T-The pain... It's gone?!
Hollow Man: Oh, human! You saved me?
Hollow Child 1: Look! Daddy's feeling better!
Hollow Child 2: Thank you, human!
Hollow Man: It shames me to say it, but I was attacked by a demon while on the road.
Hollow Man: And even though you saved me, there's no knowing when they might attack again.
Hollow Child 2: Daddy, are we gonna die?
Hollow Child 1: No way! I don't wanna die before I become human!
Hollow Man: Everything will be okay. Daddy will work things out... somehow.
Hollow Man: Human, please take this Key as a token of our thanks.
> Obtained Key to 37F Boss.
Hollow Man: I think we'll take a bit of a break before moving on.
Floor 38
Entrance
> You come across Xibuki...
Xibuki: Oh, it's the human person.
Xibuki: That's odd. Why are you alone? Where's Xana?
Xibuki: Ohhhh, okay, forget it. I guess humans have problems too.
Xibuki: No, you don't have to tell me. I see how things are. Yes I do.
Xibuki: Hey, I have an idea. Why don't you tag along with me?
Xibuki: You should at least be good for stopping a few bullets. For me, that is.
CHOICE: No thanks
Xibuki: C'mon man, traveling alone is the loneliest thing in the world.
Xibuki: Not that I would know what loneliness is, being a Hollow and all.
CHOICE: I guess I might as well.
Xibuki: Right on! Yeah, humans are the greatest!
END OF CHOICE
Xibuki: Let's hit the road then. If we come across any demons... You know what to do, right?
NPC Encounters
> You come across a Hollow with two Hollow girls.
Hollow Child 1: Say, daddy? There sure are a lotta demons on this Floor.
Hollow Child 2: Are they gonna eat us?
Hollow Child 2: I wanna become human! Can I still do that if I'm dead?
Hollow Man: E-Everything's going to be o-okay...
Hollow Man: Oh, it's you, human.
Hollow Man: Since you're human, you must know how to fuse demons to make them stronger.
Hollow Man: It can be done, right? I'm just asking because I wanted to make sure.
Hollow Man: Right, now that I know it's theoretically possible, next I'll need the body of a demon...
Hollow Child 1: Uhm... Daddy?
Hollow Child 2: Daddy, what are you talking about?
Hollow Man: It's nothing. Everything's alright. You're going to be alright...
Hollow Man: I've come up with a way to stop our employees from leaving!
Hollow Man: First, we need to create a corporate slogan to help boost morale!
Hollow Man: "To work is to live!" "Work is more important than life itself!"
Hollow Man: Yeah, that's it! That will definitely boost employee morale!
Hollow Woman: Hey you! No talking during the meeting!
Hollow Woman: That reminds me. What was this meeting for again?
Hollow Man: Sitting around and talking like this isn't accomplishing anything!
Hollow Man: Any employee that fails to turn up to work is dead weight. I say we cut 'em loose.
Hollow Man: Cut 'em loose boys! And cut 'em up!
Hollow Man: Shhh! We're in the middle of a very important meeting.
Hollow Man: A bunch of our employees have announced they're going to run off with this Hayate guy, so we're discussing our options.
Hollow Man: Althought it feels like the meeting's been going for a hundred hours or so...
Hollow Man: ...Now I wanna run away with Hayate too.
Hollow Man: Some guy came by earlier trying to sell what he said were "anti-demon charms".
Hollow Man: He wandered off after I said no, but I heard he got attacked by demons.
Hollow Man: I KNEW those charms had to be fake.
Hollow Man: He was spewing some crap about how they'd work if you believed in 'em or something.
> You come across a dead Hollow.
Hollow: ...
> Looking closer, you realize it's the one you encountered on Floor 37.
> Charms lay scattered on the ground near the body.
> Charms lay scattered on the ground.
CHOICE: Leave them be.
> End conversation.
CHOICE: Take a closer look.
> You take a closer look and find...
> ...5 Macca!
END OF CHOICE
> Charms lay scattered on the ground.
CHOICE: Leave them be.
> End conversation.
CHOICE: Take a closer look.
> You take a closer look and find...
> ...a Life Stone!
END OF CHOICE
> Charms lay scattered on the ground.
CHOICE: Leave them be.
> End conversation.
CHOICE: Take a closer look.
> You take a closer look and find...
> ...a Key!
> Obtained Key to 38F Boss.
END OF CHOICE
Boss Intro
Suited woman: Oh my, if it isn't Xibuki.
Suited woman: And you captured a human. What a good boy. That certainly deserves some praise.
Xibuki: Well, you told me you could make me a winner, so...
Xibuki: I went all out and tricked a human into coming here.
Suited woman: Aww, I just love obedient boys like you. I'll make you a winner, just like I promised.
Xibuki: Yay!
CHOICE: Just as I thought.
CHOICE: You're dead meat. (Chaos alignment points)
> Both choices lead to the same conclusion.
END OF CHOICE
Xibuki: C'mon, I just didn't want to become another drone or a slave to the system, you know?
Xibuki: I mean, you're a loser if you lose.
Suited woman: That's right. Well then, time to chow down on some...
> The woman changes into a demon!
Demon (Succubus): Human flesh! With a side of Hollow!
Xibuki: ...Wha?
Post Boss
Xibuki: I got duped again.
Xibuki: I guess losers like me deserve to live like drones.
CHOICE: Payback's a bitch. (Law alignment points)
Xibuki: Right, losers get what they deserve.
CHOICE: Let it slide.
Xibuki: That's very generous of you. It also kinda creeps me out though...
END OF CHOICE
Xibuki: Come to think of it... Hmmm. Winners and losers, superiors and subordinates...
Xibuki: Why do humans have to be so black and white about everything?
Xibuki: I mean, wouldn't it be great if everyone could just work together in a nice way?
Xibuki: You can start by being nice to me, human person.
Xibuki: What? No? You'll kill me?
Xibuki: Hmmm, that's not good. I guess I should run away then.
Xibuki: I'll run to the world's end if I have to.
Xibuki: I'll do whatever it takes to survive, no matter how low I sink. Because that's my human trait.
Xibuki: So, see ya.
Floor 39
NPC Encounters
Hollow Man: Hayate is so strong! He's the perfect person to lead us!
Hollow Man: With his guidance, we shall evolve!
Hollow Man: Hayate himself though...
Hollow Man: No one leads him, no one controls him, yet he forges his own path...
Hollow Man: I wonder what guides him?
Hollow Man: It's not like I actually enjoy working, but these guys are pretty fun to be around.
Hollow Man: So I think I'm gonna stick around just a bit longer.
Hollow Man: More! I need more! Please give me more work to do!
Hollow Man: Without work, I'll lose my sense of worth and go back to being a useless, regular Hollow again!
Hollow Man: Yeah, I did it! I managed to increase my productivity!
Hollow Man: Like they say, you learn something new every day. And I just love a challenge!
Demon (Incubus): You know, in the beginning they were made to work. They worked their asses off.
Demon (Incubus): Now, they just keep on working of their own accord.
Demon (Incubus): Even though their "work" was all meaningless shit to begin with.
Demon (Incubus): I wonder if they're just copying humans? Do humans act like this too?
> You come across a Hollow. It is nearing death.
> It's the Hollow that was traveling with two daughters.
Hollow Man: *Groan*
CHOICE: Who did this?
CHOICE: Where are your daughters?
> Both choices lead to the same conclusion.
END OF CHOICE
Hollow Man: *Pants* It was my daughters! They did this to me!
Hollow Man: I... I fused my daughters with demons!
Hollow Man: It was for their own sake. So they could survive... And the process was a complete success!
Hollow Man: Their bodies and minds became those of demons... and they promptly attacked me!
CHOICE: That's horrible.
CHOICE: Sounds like you failed.
> Both choices lead to the same conclusion.
END OF CHOICE
Hollow Man: What else was I supposed to do?! Should I have let them die?
Hollow Man: My daughters, those sweet, fragile creatures, attacked me without hesitation!
Hollow Man: Now that they are demons, they'll be able to survive in this Realm!
Hollow Man: They'll be able to live free. Without being subjugated. A... complete... success...
Hollow Man: *Pant* *Groan*... Ugh...
> The Hollow stops moving.
> It drops a Key.
> Obtained Key to 39F Boss.
> The Hollow is dead.
Hollow Man: ...
> Judging by its face, it died happy.
> Two demons rush towards you.
Demon (Cerberus): Grrrrr!
Demon (Fenrir): Rooaaarr!
Demon (Cerberus): ...?! Sis! Stop!
Demon (Fenrir): Rooaaar?
> The demons come to a halt.
Demon (Cerberus): That was close. We... We almost attacked a human...
Demon (Cerberus): Hello, human. We must look quite different to you now.
Demon (Cerberus): Did daddy tell you? He fused us with demons.
Demon (Cerberus): But the demons are gradually gaining control. We've even been attacking other Hollows.
Demon (Cerberus): Soon the demons will be all that's left.
Demon (Cerberus): Sis here has turned completely already.
Demon (Fenrir): R-Rooaaaarr!
Demon (Cerberus): No. Don't blame daddy. He did the only thing he could.
Demon (Cerberus): But I don't think we're going to be able to become human now...
Demon (Cerberus): ...Human! Please kill us!
Demon (Cerberus): I don't want to live like this! Please, kill us!
> Found an enemy icon. (Cerberus) Fight enemy?
> This is a fight against Cerberus and Fenrir. Cerberus never attacks and has three unique abilities; I'm Sorry (heal the player's party), Thank You (cast Luster Candy on the player's party), and Don't Bother (cast Debilitate on the two demons). Each skill description only reads "The heart of the girl who became a demon". Fenrir, however, has a more or less normal skill set and acts offensively.
> Fight and win.
Demon (Cerberus): T-Thank you... Now we can... finally...
Demon (Cerberus): Sis, we're gonna go see daddy soon.
Demon (Cerberus): ...
> The demon that was once the older of the two sisters collapses and dies.
> But the demon that was once the younger of the two sisters suddenly starts to move.
Demon (Fenrir): ...Wha--?!
Demon (Fenrir): W-What's going on? What are these wounds?
Demon (Fenrir): A-Am I going to die? D-Did you kill me, human?
Demon (Fenrir): Sis! Wait... did you kill sis too?!
Demon (Fenrir): Why would you do that?! I didn't wanna die!
Demon (Fenrir): Why? Why would you do that?!
Demon (Fenrir): Why would you kill us...
> The demon that was once the younger of the two sisters collapses and dies.
> You hear something opening somewhere.
Boss Intro
Hayate: Hey, kid! Just stop it, okay?
Xana: Why? What's the harm?
Xana: There's no point in saving these loser Hollows, is there?
Hayate: I'm not trying to save them, but the more minions I have, the better!
Xana: Really? But you're a bad guy, so why not act like one?
Xana: You need to be more ruthless. Have more of a killer attitude, you know?
> They seem to be arguing about something...
Hayate: Hey, Liberator!
Hayate: Your little girl here is goddamn crazy!
Hayate: She's asking me to do some evil shit at every turn! Or even eat demons or something like that!
Hayate: I tell you she's completely insane!
Xana: I guess I may have gotten a bit carried away. I've never met a bad guy before, so...
Xana: Ooh, Demon incoming as we speak.
Hayate: Goddamnit!
Post Boss
Hayate: *Pant* What is it with you...
Xana: How should I know?
Xana: You know what I think, Hayate?
Xana: You've never actually been close to anyone, have you?
Hayate: ...No, I haven't.
Hayate: The people around me were like a bunch of hyenas, always trying to take what I had.
Hayate: I might've been their boss, but I never knew when one of 'em might try to whack me.
Hayate: You win, you rule. You lose, you get ruled. My world was as simple as that.
Hayate: That's why someone like you is such a goddamn nuisance.
Hayate: Hey, Liberator. Just take her off my hands, alright?
Xana: Oh no you don't. You're not getting rid of me that easily.
Hayate: What the... Hey! Stop pulling me! Aaaah Goddammit!
> Hayate looks extremely distressed.
Hayate: What the hell are you trying to do here anyways, kid?
Hayate: Don't tell me you're just wandering around this world with no purpose at all?
Xana: Hmm, well, if I had to pick an answer...
Xana: I'd say I'm on a journey to kill this bastard called Ixaya.
Hayate: Ixaya? Who the hell's that?
Xana: I'm not really sure myself, but he's probably the ruler of this world.
Xana: I mean, he's destroying Realms and stuff, so he's gotta be.
Hayate: Is that so...
Xana: You've got that look in your eyes.
Hayate: Ruler, aye? Then if I beat him, this whole world's as good as mine?
Xana: Maybe. Is your bad guy sense tingling?
Hayate: You bet it is. Wait... No, not bad guy sense.
Hayate: Loser sense.
Xana: Ixaya is probably pretty damn strong. You could die, you know?
Hayate: Ha! I'm already dead, remember? I got nothing left to lose.
Hayate: I'm on overtime now. So if this is the end for me, I want to end as a winner.
Xana: ...
Hayate: Alright then. Take me to this guy. Where is he anyway?
Xana: Hmmm, knowing that sneaky prick, he's probably anticipated all of this and is waiting for us on the next floor.
Floor 40
NPC Encounters
Hollow Man: Hayate has gone to kick the Creator's ass!
Hollow Man: I'm gonna go and check it out myself a bit later.
Hollow Man: I've never seen this "Creator". I wonder what he looks like?
Hollow Man: I reckon the guy's ugly as sin! He must be too hideous to show himself!
Hollow Man: Did you hear the news?
Hollow Man: They say that the "First Day" is nearly here.
Hollow Man: Soon we will be freed from our suffering!
Hollow Man: Soon, we will be human!
> A demon is attacking some Hollows.
Hollow Man 1: G-Gyaah! S-Stop! G-Go away!
Hollow Man 2: I did my best for the company! What did I do to deserve this?!
Demon (Chernobog): Hehehe... The First Day is approaching.
Demon (Chernobog): When it comes, none of this will matter. Not this world, not you Hollows. Nothing.
Hollow Man 2: So you're... getting rid of us because you don't need us anymore? Just like that?
Demon (Chernobog): This is the Subjugated Realm, isn't it? I'm ordering you to die, so shut up and do as you're told!
> The demon looks your way.
Demon (Chernobog): Think you can stop me, human? Think I'll just roll over? Well, think again!
Demon (Chernobog): But if you lose, you're gonna be subjugated in hell... Forever!
> Found an enemy icon. (Chernobog) Fight enemy?
Demon (Chernobog): *Hack*Cough* Yes, that's it. That's the true nature of the world.
Demon (Chernobog): You have to subjugate others to get your own way. And in the process, destroy them.
Demon (Chernobog): I'd expect no less of a human. You are the very embodiment of the world you yourselves created, after all.
> The demon disintegrates into nothingness.
Hollow Man 1: Dammit, we were being fooled all along. And we worked so hard too...
Hollow Man 2: Maybe it's like Hayate said and we should rise up and fight against the Creator?
Hollow Man 1: Don't be stupid! All we'd do is get ourselves killed.
Hollow Man 2: I guess you're right. It's just like what that demon said.
Hollow Man 2: Humans must really get off on fighting and subjugating others.
Hollow Man 2: But we Hollows don't particularly like fighting to win. Or losing a fight, for that matter.
Hollow Man 2: ...Here, take the Key. Take it and go fight to your heart's content.
Hollow Man 2: We're gonna go hide somewhere until this is all over. See ya.
> The Hollows run off.
> You hear something opening somewhere.
Hollow Man: Dammit! Can't you demons and Hollows keep it down?
Hollow Man: I'm trying to work here!
> A demon and a Hollow are locked in battle.
Demon (Persephone): Hehehe. Opposing the Creator is a sin punishable by death!
Hollow Man: Gyah!
Hollow Man: L-Looks like I'm not going to... reach... Boss Hayate...
> The Hollow collapses, bleeding profusely.
Demon (Persephone): Pathetic. Did they really think they stood a chance against the Creator?
Demon (Persephone): ...And what do we have here? A human? Come for some divine punishment as well?
> Found an enemy icon. (Persephone) Fight enemy?
> Fight and win.
Demon (Persephone): Well... Damn. Looks like you got me...
Demon (Persephone): You're tougher than you...
> The demon disintegrates.
Hollow Man: I-Is it dead?
Hollow Man: Thanks for saving me... But i-it's too late...
Hollow Man: H-here... I have a job for you...
Hollow Man: Please take that Key to Hayate in my place...
Hollow Man: I can't offer anything in return, but please...
> The Hollow dies.
> You hear something opening somewhere.
Hollow woman: It don't matter to us whether Hayate wins or loses.
Hollow woman: Either way, us Hollows are at the bottom of the heap. It's what they call a "hierarchy".
Boss Intro
Ixaya: Hi, Savior.
> Upon entering the room, you find Hayate facing off against Ixaya.
> Hayate, already sporting multiple wounds, is struggling to stay on his feet...
Hayate: Shit! You damn freak.
Xana: Hayate!
Hayate: Stay back!
Xana: ...!
Ixaya: They've been like this ever since they found me, Savior.
Ixaya: They just came in and started attacking all of the sudden. I am at a loss here.
Xana: At a loss? You were totally trying to kill us.
Ixaya: Haha! Was it that obvious?
Ixaya: You're right. I thought it was time you and Hayate here were written out of the scenario, if you will.
Ixaya: Because I mean... it's almost time.
Xana: Almost time for what?
Ixaya: The "First Day", of course! The day I become human!
Xana: ...!
Ixaya: Only the Savior is permitted to witness it.
Ixaya: You meddling anomalies, on the other hand, are not worthy! Ahahahaha!
Ixaya: Anyways, that's the gist of it, so...
Ixaya: Would you please die already?
> Ixaya's demon goes straight for Hayate!
Hayate: Ugh...!
> Hayate is unable to move...!
Hayate: Again? I... Am I to lose like this again?
> In that instant, Hayate's Hollow minions block the demon's path!
Hollow Underling Man: Don't worry boss, we'll protect you!
Hollow Underling Woman: We won't let our leader die!
Hayate: Guys!
> The demon's attack plows straight through the Hollows!
Hollow Underling Man: We may be a bunch of losers...
Hollow Underling Woman: But in our final moment... we acted... of our own free will...
> The Hollows die...
Hayate: ...
Xana: ...Hayate.
Hayate: ...What?
Xana: ...Have you ever been saved by your underlings before?
Hayate: ...Nah. My men, they were always trying to kill me in my sleep. They were no allies of mine.
Xana: I see...
Ixaya: Oh my, you're actually quite resilient.
Ixaya: But you've got no Hollows left to hide behind. This is the end.
Xana: (Player Name). Please, help us.
> Xana's face turns incredibly sad.
Xana: I always thought helping others was a stupid thing to do, so maybe it's stupid of me to ask for help like this, but...
Xana: But please, help me and Hayate...
Xana: ...Please save us!
CHOICE: Of course! (Law alignment points)
> Xana's demeanor is back to normal.
Xana: Thank you. You're the best.
CHOICE: For free?
> Xana's expression turns stern.
Xana: No. I'll repay you somehow, I swear.
END OF CHOICE
Ixaya: Oh dear. The Savior's my enemy now? That's perplexing.
Ixaya: But hey, you're in my way, so I guess there's no other choice.
Ixaya: Let's go!
Post Boss
Ixaya: Well done. That's what I call a Savior.
Ixaya: ...But, you were careless.
> You turn around and see a second demon approaching from behind!
Demon (White Rider): Die, Hollow one!
Xana: ...!
> The demon unleashes a powerful magic attack straight at Xana!
> But Hayate jumps directly in front of the blast!
Hayate: Aaarrgh!!
> The magic attack engulfs Hayate's body in scorching flames!
Hayate: Aaaaarrrrrrgh!!
Xana: Hayate!
Hayate: Who the hell do you think I am, you lowly demon!
> Hayate attacks the demon with everything he's got left.
> The demon is obliterated, but...
Hayate: *Groan*
> With this last effort, Hayate collapses to the ground...
Ixaya: Oh bother. That did not go as I had planned.
Ixaya: I underestimated him for being a mere remnant of a lost soul that found its way here by chance. Maybe that was a mistake.
Xana: Ixaya!
Ixaya: Oh well, too bad. I'll just have to cut my losses and retreat.
Ixaya: I'll be waiting for you in the final Realm, Savior.
Ixaya: After all, the First Day is almost upon us.
Ixaya: Oh, and Savior? Please don't take too long.
> Ixaya disappears...
> Meanwhile, Hayate is fading quickly.
Hayate: *Gasp*
> Xana looks upset.
Xana: Hayate, why did you save me?
Hayate: Hmph! I didn't do it for you. I don't give two shits about you.
Hayate: But after the stunt my minions pulled, I had to do something to top them or I'll look bad, right?
Xana: ...I see.
Hayate: Yo, Liberator. Did I... lose again?
CHOICE: No.
CHOICE: There are no winners or losers.
> Both choices lead to the same conclusion.
END OF CHOICE
Xana: ...That's right.
Xana: You neither won, nor lost.
Xana: You've reached that place, where there's no winning or losing.
> Fade to black.
Hayate: Oh... I get it now...
Hayate: This is it...
Hayate: No winning. No losing...
Hayate: So this is what it's like... This... this ain't half bad...
Xana: Hayate...
Hayate: Hey, kid... Take this...
> It's Hayate's devil downloader, his smart phone.
Xana: What? A "smart phone"?
Hayate: It'll protect ya, if you have the disposition for wielding demons.
Hayate: Just take it. Keep it as a good luck charm or something.
Xana: Okay... Thank you.
Hayate: ...Hey, Liberator.
Hayate: ...Take care of her. And don't you lose, alright?
Hayate: ...
> With that, Hayate's body slowly fades away.
Xana: ...
Xana: The human heart is a fascinating thing.
Xana: You did a lot of bad things in your life, Hayate.
Xana: But you died at peace with yourself because you saved me in the end.
Xana: None of that really changes anything though. It's not as if your past deeds were forgiven, or that heaven would accept you instead of hell.
Xana: But you were awesome just the same, Hayate. You kicked ass.
Xana: ...
Xana: Hey, (Player Name). Can I rejoin you on your journey?
CHOICE: Of course.
Xana: Playing the saint are we? How pretentious of you.
Xana: But I'm glad you said yes. Thank you.
CHOICE: You tramp. (Chaos alignment points)
Xana: Tramp? I'm not really familiar with that word.
Xana: Does it mean something like "Xana's really pretty"?
Xana: Anyway, I'll take that as a yes.
END OF CHOICE
Xana: I... No, WE have to find out what Ixaya is planning, and what's going to happen when the "First Day" comes.
Xana: Even if we might end up with a bad taste in our mouth by the end.
Xana: So, let's go, (Player Name).
Xana: The last Realm is waiting.
New Dialogue in Previous Floors
> Back up to Floor 31...
Hollow Man: Yeah, I hate work. Really hate it.
Hollow Woman: I've been working hard at counting and cataloguing my split ends.
Hollow Woman: 5962, 5963... Oh, I counted this one already...
Hollow Man: Oh, so busy!
> The Hollow keeps on running nonstop.
Hollow Man: Busy doing what? Nothing, really.
Hollow Man: If I don't pretend to be busy, the boss gets mad for some reason.
Hollow Woman: *Sigh* Work is so tedious. Why do humans like working so much?
Hollow Man: I have seen the light! I will no longer be subjugated to anyone!
Hollow Man: That mean's I'M the CEO, and I'm recruiting employees!
> Back at floor 32...
Hollow Man: Hmmm, I'm still waiting for my boss to get back...
Hollow Man: Oh, by the way, my boss is actually a demon.
Hollow Man: He went missing when the war between the demons and the Hollows broke out.
Hollow Man: I wonder if he's on a business trip? If he is, he should at least contact me once in awhile.
Hollow Man: Well, I'll be here waiting. That's my job.
Hollow Man: The last order he gave me was "Live on".
> You come upon some arguing Hollow spirits.
Hollow Ghost Man 1: As I said, brainstorming is useless because it only produces ideas that aren't well thought out!
Hollow Ghost Man 2: And you're just bottle-necking the whole process because all you do is criticize without coming up with viable alternatives!
Hollow Ghost Man 3: These guys are so business savvy, even if we are all dead!
Hollow Man: I'm done with all this "winners and losers" stuff. From now on, I'm going to live by my own rules.
Hollow Man: But if I'm gonna do that... I wanna work hard at something.
Hollow Man: Is that strange? Am I acting different to how a human would?
> Back at floor 33...
Hollow Man: That other human died, huh? So humans can die, too.
Hollow Man: What happens to humans when they die? Do they become Hollows like us?
Hollow Woman: W-What was that? I guess a demon must've gotten to me.
Hollow Woman: I'm sorry about that. Look, you don't have to work. Go home.
Hollow Man: W-Whaaat? You mean you aren't going to punish me anymore?...
Hollow Man: Let me work! Please! Kick me again! Let me be your sub...ordinate!
Hollow Woman: Looks like something's gotten to you too, huh?
Buff Hollow: Daddy's home! Yay!
Hollow Man: Work was cancelled, so I managed to make it home to see my son.
Hollow Man: I don't know what's going on, but I'm grateful, either way.
Hollow Man: Sorry I've been gone so long, my son. Now that I'm home, what would you like to do?
Buff Hollow: Mummy died while you were gone, so I wanna go find a new one!
Hollow Man: Alright then. Let's go do that!
> Back at Floor 34...
Hollow Man: I can't believe that Boss Hayate is dead. He seemed so strong.
Hollow Man: Since you're still alive, that means that you were stronger than he was.
Hollow Man: I guess you can't judge a book by its cover. I wonder what "strength" truly is...
Hollow Man: But you know what? I still wanna be cool like Boss Hayate was.
Hollow Man: Oh geez... The entire managerial team has disappeared.
Hollow Man: Who's going to tell me what to do now? What on earth am I supposed to do?
> Back at Floor 35...
Hollow Ghost Man: I'm the team manager here.
Hollow Ghost Man: Alright, it's time to work... Be happy in your work...
Hollow Woman: Why don't you try working here, too? There's plenty to do.
Hollow Woman: Everyone's gone now, so there's more than enough work to go around.
> Back at Floor 36...
> You return to where you found the Hollow that mocked you for being "dumped".
Hollow Ghost Man: Hey, what's with you two? What? You made up? Borrring!
Hollow Ghost Man: But hey, whatever. It's better to patch things up while you're still alive...
Hollow Child: Daddy, please give me this month's "allowance". You haven't given me last month's yet, either.
Hollow Woman: You haven't paid my expenses for this month, either. Pay up or it's divorce papers for you, "honey".
Hollow Man: H-Hold on just a moment, you two. My boss has gone missing and I haven't been paid yet...
Hollow Child: What?! I ain't playin' at bein' yer kid for nothin' ya know!
Hollow Woman: Exactly! I'm not playing the good wife for free! What's in it for me?
Hollow Man: Yikes! Maintaining a "family" is more difficult than I thought!
Hollow Woman: Oh, human. You've found a traveling companion?
Hollow Woman: Good for you. I suppose it's better than traveling all alone...
> Back at Floor 37...
Hollow Ghost Man: I was just trying to be like Boss Hayate, y'know? Take out some demons by myself...
Hollow Ghost Man: But I wasn't strong enough.
Hollow Ghost Man: It can be pretty easy to imitate those you admire without fully thinking things through sometimes...
Hollow Man: I'm done with being subjugated. I wanna be the one doing the subjugating.
Hollow Man: Hey, you there! Lead us!
Hollow Man: We will follow you. We will dedicate ourselves to you so you may tell us what to do.
Hollow Man: ... ...waaait a minute...
Hollow Woman: Welcome to this Floor! *Grins*
Hollow Woman: Technically I don't even have to work anymore, but this is the only thing I know how to do!
Hollow Woman: Oh Hayate... I heard he... He was killed.
Hollow Woman: If only I could have saved him the way he once saved me.
Hollow Woman: I guess I wouldn't have been much help to him though, come to think of it.
> Back at Floor 38...
> You return to the room where a number of Hollows were having a meeting...
Hollow Man: ...
> The Hollow lies unconscious.
Hollow Woman: ...
> The Hollow is unconscious.
Hollow (Unseen): ...
> A Hollow lies dead on the ground.
> Its throat has been slit.
Hollow Man: S-Someone, please stop the meeting!
Hollow Man: If someone doesn't stop it, it's going to go on forever!
> Back at Floor 39...
Hollow Man: Those guys really give work everything they've got. They never get boring.
Hollow Man: So I think I'm gonna stick around just a bit longer.
Hollow Man: You can't just sit on your laurels when it comes to work!
Hollow Man: If you've finished what you've been given, then you gotta get out there and find some more to do!
Hollow Man: More! More! If I don't find more, I'll...
Hollow Man: Hmph, will you look at that. Looks like my coworker is jonesing for a promotion.
Hollow Man: We'll see about that! Let's see which of us really earns it!
Demon (Incubus): The Creator has left this Realm already.
Demon (Incubus): So I tried telling 'em that they didn't have to work anymore, but they just keep working anyway. I don't understand these Hollows.
> Back at Floor 40...
Hollow Man: Finally some quiet. Now I can actually get some work done.
Hollow Man: I don't care what's happening to this realm. Work is work.
Hollow Woman: Did Hayate lose? Or maybe he won?
Hollow Woman: The Hollows that fought with him died happy.
Hollow Woman: I wonder if they managed to become human in the end?
To be continued...