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Beyond the Beyond: Update 46: Plans Come Together (Zalagoon redux)
Last time on Beyond the Beyond there was arguing and betrayal and violence! (It was a busy episode.) This time we get to enjoy the fruits of our labor and prepare for the next part of the journey.
After that cut to black at the end of the last episode we return to find Finn and company in some sort of guest room in the castle. Could it be? Could we have actually completed a story arc in the game?
We will kindly overlook the technical hiccup that means the bed cover layer doesn't line up to the tops of the character sprites. As funny as it is seeing the pillows through what should be character sprites the characters themselves have not turned partially invisible.
On another note Tont didn't even get the courtesy of a bed. He had to sleep on a table. Not under it, or beside it, or even on a mat or anything but on a bare wooden table. Poor kid just can't get a break.
As soon as the screen fades in Finn is controllable but the only thing to do is crawl out of bed. Steiner can't be talked to and will just sort of hover where he is.
First one up, eh? *stretches* Maybe I'll actually get to walk around the castle instead of spending another day cooped up in here.
I don't get how Tont can sleep like that. He says he's just fine though... 
Ok, so he's mostly fine.
I like how the first sob is capitalized despite the fact that it isn't actually the start of a sentence. It's like it's extra sobby or something.
Oh, sis... 
Zzzz... Finn! What are you doing? Hehe that tickles... Zzzz... *stifles a giggle* Gets her every time.
Don't think I won't... give you a piece of my mind, Finn. Zzzz... That still won't stop me from tickling your toes like when we were little kids.
*drowsily swats at Finn*
Bandore, I'm coming... Woooo. Ha ha ha! Now you know my power... I'm not sure I wanna know exactly what Sir Samson's dreaming about.
Ahhhh, no more... I can't eat anymore. I'm full... Zzzz...
More breakfast for me then! Zzzz...
Searching the other table in the room Finn discovers a curious object.
Huh? Someone left a box here last night. There's a note. "For my darling nephew, Edward." Daw, it must be from Queen Scarlet then.
Hmm, what does this button do?
The Music Box is a unique item in Beyond the Beyond that functions as a music test. There are 46 tracks in total, three of which are heard nowhere else in the game (tracks 6, 15, and 20). Whatever is chosen will continue playing until the next music trigger but the box remembers what track was last selected so it's easy to play it again if you want.
With that out of the way Finn heads to the door to sneak off, no doubt for misadventure and hijinks.
Or he would if Sir Samson didn't have ears like a cat and jumps out of bed just before Finn can reach the door.
Finn... what?! Where are you going?
Uh... breakfast? It's a little late in the morning but there must be something to munch on.
Then Annie hops out of bed.
Eh? ...What? What's going on?
Nothing! Finn's just trying to sneak off on us.
Oh, Finn! You're not thinking about going without us, are you? I'm just going to get something to eat. What's the big deal?
Whaaa! It's a monster!
Edward suddenly rushes out of bed making enough of a ruckus to make Tont bolt off the table.
Monsters?! What?! Where?!
Oh, umm... I must have had a nightmare.
Don't scare me like that!
Well, I guess we should all get going now.
Wait a minute. Have you been awake the whole time, Steiner? Maaaaybeee.
The group reforms. Just outside the room a soldier is on watch.
All rested up?
And hungry!
Leave it to Finn to think first of his stomach.
Don't act like you're not going to help yourself to whatever we get.
There should be something saved for you kids in the kitchen. I'm kind of surprised no one came to wake us earlier.
Queen Scarlet's orders.
Then she's back in the castle? Yeah. Got back late last night. Told us not to disturb you guys. Is that normal for your aunt? I don't know. I heard about what happened. Scary stuff. Don't worry! We're here to protect Zalagoon! *snickering*
I know some of the soldiers had their doubts but I knew you were the real Prince Edward all along.
Things are quiet now though.
Until you get to the kitchen you mean.
The doors have been unlocked and without any NPCs railroading us the team can go wherever they please in the castle.
Come on, Steiner. Give me a little credit. I'm not going to eat everything in the castle.
I didn't say you were going to do it all in one sitting. Come nightfall, however, and the king will be regretting letting you stay. *chuckles*
Aaargh! It's not like you don't help, you know? And Annie! I never hear you tease her about how much she eats!
I'm a growin' girl, also I have a long memory when it comes to certain little dragons coming to me about their sore little paws. ...You're sure blackmail's not better, sis?
Steiner would have to feel things like guilt and shame for that to be possible, Finn.
The castle returning to its normal day-to-day operations also means there are people just milling about.
Speaking of guilt and shame here's a human who seems to have an abundance of one or both.
Who...? Oh, you kids. Hi there.
Whatcha' doin'?
Thinking. I'm not sure if I'm ready to fight in a war. I have a family to think about.
...I don't understand. Your family isn't going to war with you.
Are you suddenly being deliberately obtuse, Steiner?
What? No. I mean, sure, this human could die but their family would live on. He's not like us.
That is... one way to look at it I suppose. You know I think we should leave now before we make this guy more confused and depressed then he already is.
Heading towards the main gate the team spots another soldier on sentry duty.
Hi kids! Heading out for the day?
Maybe in a little while.
I wish I was part of the force going to take back Marion. Guarding the castle is very boring. There's a soldier over there who doesn't want to go. Maybe you can switch places with them? Hmmm...
Across the building, where Sir Bison was waiting for the team earlier, a lone sentry stands at attention.
Hi kids. I was informed to let you have whatever you want from the castle armory.
Way ahead of you.
...?
Wait a minute. Where you expecting us?
Sir Bison's orders.
Oh. Yeah that would explain it.
As we raided the armory in the last update there's nothing for the team downstairs.
I didn't really think you'd taken everything down here, Finn.
Why is that? Well you four were only gone for a short time.
Pryaaar! Finn's fast and efficient.
We were on a strict timetable. Besides most of that stuff wasn't useful anyway.
Continuing their circuit around the ground floor the team comes upon another soldier. They're not guarding the door or anything. I just happened to grab a shot of them standing around like they're eavesdropping.
There must be some way to break the stalemate at the bridge.
What was that?
Oh, sorry. I was just kind of talking to myself.
What's this about a stalemate?
And a bridge?
Don't worry about it kids. It's not something you should get involved in.
Pester Sir Bison about it as soon as we see him. Got it.
The room beyond has two people and a rather stinky pot that Steiner purposefully neglects to warn Finn about before the boy tries to look inside. Sir Piat doesn't notice the group as they come in, lost as he is in thought at the table.
What's going on, human? Are you a guard too?
Me? I'm about to go on duty actually.
What's with that guy over there?
Sir Piat is trying to figure out how to defeat Bandore's troops. There doesn't seem to be a good solution.
Suddenly Piat, reacting to the voices in the room, looks up and notices Samson.
Sir Samson!
I see you are are well, Sir Piat.
As are you.
What's going on? We heard something about a stalemate.
Hmm... We're having trouble retaking the South Bridge. There's more than one bridge?
Not that I know of. I take it Bandore has fortified its position on the west side.
Yes and with that position our forces can't move across the bridge easily.
And what does Sir Bison plan to do about it?
I don't know. He's discussing the matter with the king right now as a matter of fact.
Hmm. It's going to take precious time to build and move catapults into position.
If only we could get a task force to attack from Marion's side. But how?
I take it you don't have friends on the other side.
We kind of are those friends, Tont.
This room also has a bookshelf with one title of interest: "Zalagoon History". Unfortunately the team doesn't have time to brush up on history lessons at the moment.
Not least of all when the kitchen's right next door and Finn's growling stomach is what's actually leading the team.
Shoo, shoo, shoo! I'm trying to prepare the king's meal.
I just want some breakfast! Breakfast? It's almost lunch time. I'm not picky...
Once Finn and company have stuffed themselves silly they leave the poor, frazzled cook to her work. Just outside they see two guards standing at attention outside the throne room.
(corridor guards) Welcome honored guests. The king is expecting you. Please proceed.
Oooooohhhh. We're sort of famous now, aren't we? Is everybody up for seeing the king again?
Yes.
*shrugs* Eh.
The throne is certainly colorful I'll give the Zalagoon Interior Decorator that. There are also plenty of people to talk to. Finn immediately turns to his left to start the circuit.
(SW) Welcome. The king has been expecting you.
Uh, I hope he hasn't been waiting on us or anything 'cause we kinda had to make a stop first. 
Don't worry about it. We've been discussing strategy all morning. And how does the battle go, Sir Bison?
At holding our own borders we're doing fine. I have patrols sweeping through the countryside to make sure no enemy scouts or strike teams are on our land.
Does that mean you're in charge of the army now?
It does indeed young prince.
And beyond Zalagoon's borders?
(SW) Our lord is struggling with resistance from Bandore. Is there any solution?
If there is we'll find it. By the way have you seen Sir Piat?
We have.
Good. In a few days he'll be heading to the front to get an assessment of just how we might dislodge Bandore from the western side of the bridge. (NW) I heard he was thinking about rafting a team across the river but it's running high at this time of year. (SW) That would take hiking a good distance up into the mountains. Even at night you can see for miles from the watchtowers.
(NW) Well he has to do something. Sir Bison is trying his best to take back Queen scarlet's native home. And Sir Bison's native home too.
I admit it will feel good to set foot in Marion again. What are our other options?
*takes a deep breath* None of them are good I'll say that up front. We could cross the mountains but as I am sure you are already well aware that would take weeks that we don't really have. If Sir Piat cannot find some sort of subterfuge we will have to mount a full-scale assault across the bridge. It will be difficult and once an assault begins it must move fast before Bandore soldiers can destroy the bridge itself and render all our work pointless.
We understand, Sir Bison. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
I hope we don't need to call upon you Prince Edward. Still... *pauses* We are unable to defeat Bandore's fortified troops at the southern bridge. We must take that bridge in order to free Marion. But how?! I am sure we will think of something.
Sir Bison is clearly a bit stressed at the moment but the king of Zalagoon sits calmly on his throne. It is the queen, however, who first addresses their visitors.
Good morning! Sleep well? Zalagoon troops have gathered at the bridge.
Good morning Aunt Scarlet. We are fine and I am glad that you made it back safely.
I was rather surprised to hear how much I had missed. Zalagoon has changed so much in just a few days.
Yes it has. Thank you for your gift by the way.
Oh it was nothing. My daughters sometimes bring me curious trinkets they find. I hope it brings you some amusement if nothing else in these dark times.
You still haven't told me why you left so suddenly.
It was something of a personal matter. By the way Edward would you mind telling me how your father's been doing some time later today?
Of course your Majesty. I would be honored.
*clears throat* Well, Sir Samson, since you have broached the subject with Sir Bison. My men have gathered at the southern bridge. We are trying to figure out how to take the bridge without losing a lot of soldiers. As a knight of Marion any information you could provide us with about how Bandore might have dug in would be appreciated.
I don't think I can help much but there will be plenty of time for Sir Bison and I to go over strategy.
Bandore troops have fortified their positions on the bridge. We are still waiting on scouts to return but initial reports suggest they are mostly reacting to our garrison that has moved in opposite them. There is still no sign that the main occupation army in Marion has mobilized.
Ok I don't know anything about this war stuff but how could you tell if they were mobilizing?
Both river banks are mostly open ground. It is impossible to conceal a large number of troops on either side. We'd be able to see their encampments from our side.
Well said, Sir Samson. Oh, ok.
I'm sure we'll find a way to save Marion.
We need to move soon though. We're at an advantage now, as long as Bandore doesn't think we're going to attack them. The border between Marion and Zalagoon is either heavily fortified or too impractical to march an army through. Once Bandore brings its navy into play we'll be forced to be defensive.
Uh, why? Bandore kinda took Marion by surprise by landing troops on our shores with their big ships.
A gate really isn't much help when someone can just walk around it, is it?
No it's not. I won't keep you any longer. You're our guests. We've kept you cooped up in the castle for long enough.
Eh, easier to keep Finn under control that way.
Gee, thanks sis.
There are also another pair of soldiers standing at attention. They aren't really the strategizing type and thus had nothing to contribute to the discussion in front of them.
I do not need to be kept under control. If anyone needs that it would be Steiner. As if I'd ever let a human do that to me!
(SE) So you're the guests? I'm surprised you're all so young.
Well we are.
I'll be glad to get outside and get some sunshine. I really don't do well inside stone walls for days on end.
So how are you going to stand living in that villainous lair you were talking about earlier?
*shrugs* I'll be a master mage by then. I'll have teleportation magic or something.
(NE) Sorry about that. The King wishes for you to make yourselves comfortable in our humble home. It's just so much was happening what with the king and Sir Bison out in the field getting units ready. (SE) It wasn't all bad. Queen Scarlet is quite pleased that she had the chance to see Prince Edward again. These kids probably aren't going to hang around the castle that long anyway.
You already know us too well, human.
Trust me. I plan on seeing more of the castle before we get roped into something else.
You sound pretty sure that'll happen, Finn.
Spotting a staircase on the east side of the throne room Finn abandons any pretense of trying to reassure Annie that he's not going to treasure hunt the hell out of the castle and heads upstairs. The team finds an opulent room.
Whoa! Fancy!
Finn I don't think we should be in here. What? It's not like I'm going to break anything.
There's no treasure to be had but there are a couple of bookcases.
Hmm. "The Ultimate Aesthetic" It's all about interior decorating. This place looks pretty nice so that book must be spot on.
There's another book here called "The Greenheim Continent". Interior decorating and geography in one room. But what happens if you combine the two? A very pretty continent, that's what. Alright you jokers let's go.
Back down the stairs and across the throne room is another staircase leading up. The room it connects to is a little larger and more furnished.
Even fancier! And more books. Hey, Edward, here's one right up your alley: "History of Bandore".
It's kind of a short book.
Let me see that. *starts thumbing through* You're right. This is more of an overview of their history rather then a proper treatment.
There's one for you too, Finn: "Successful Leadership". They could have just written, 'Don't follow Finn's advice' and called it a day. Ha, ha. You joke now but the fact that we've come this far means I can't be completely wrong. Besides, it's not like I actually lead anyone. You all just stick me on point and follow me around. Steiner just wants a chance to spot treasure first.
"How to Lead Others". I guess there's no consensus on the best way to do that if there are multiple books on the subject. "Qualities of a Good King". I get the distinct feeling we're in the king's bedroom right now. That's not a capital offense or anything is it? The king kind of saw us walk up here and didn't say anything so I guess he doesn't care.
The closets have mundane things like clothes and such in them.
Are you going to rifle through the king's sock drawer too?
...Does he have a sock drawer?
I wonder if he's got a different crown for each day of the week.
As... fascinating as this all is I must join Annie in protesting our violation of the king's room. Worried about getting into trouble? More like I have no particular desire to be in my own uncle's bedroom.
Ok, ok, relax. We're going now.
There's nothing else in the other closets but Finn quickly pockets a curious little ring that hopefully won't summon Ring Wraiths or horribly curse us or anything. I would also hope it doesn't send us on a quest that crosses the continent but we've already done that and it wasn't so bad.
Back on the main floor the team finds a staircase heading down that doesn't lead to an armory. It leads to what appears to be an archives room.
Oh my...
Is it just me or does this place have way more books then Marion does? 
Oh hello there kids. What are you doing down here?
Nothin' special. You?
I am down here doing some research. The advisor once mentioned that Shutat is one of the Vicious Ones... If I'm right, I've seen the words "Vicious Ones" in an ancient prophecy.
I'd be wary about taking anything Glade said seriously. Shutat kind of sold him down the river.
Being a Vicious One would explain his immense magical power though.
The man looks to the bookshelf, seemingly deaf to the conversation right beside him.
This is the book I was looking for. "In the end, the Vicious Ones bring disaster upon the world until a Great Light appears and travels to Quamdar."
That's not a prophecy. That's history! Get your stories straight, human!
I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss the words of old, little dragon. For instance there's something here for you: "Dragon's Recuperation". When a dragon is injured, it will always return to one place.
Yeah but does it say where that place is? It does but it's in the old language of the dragons. I doubt there is anyone alive today, save perhaps Arawn himself, who could read it.
Lovely. You hear that, Steiner? Don't go rushing off into danger or you might find yourself some place far, far away.
Aww, you're just saying that to encourage me.
There are a lot of books in this room and the team isn't really in the mood to sift through the stacks so I'll just list the others and their descriptions. Some are just there as bits of background fluff and others actually add their 2 cents to the game's backstory.
Bookshelf: "Women of Zalagoon" It's a collection of pictures.
Bookshelf: "The Underground Waterways of Zalagoon" It contains a diagram and the history of Zalagoon's underground waterway.
Bookshelf: "The Zalagoon-Bandore War"
Bookshelf: "Arawn's Twilight" An account of the battle between Arawn and the Vicious Ones.
Bookshelf: "Green Village Reeve" It's a small book published by Reeve Village Tours Inc.
Bookshelf: "Danger Underfoot" It contains records of people falling into wells.
Bookshelf: "The Best Weapon" The author is a worker of the Mithril Silver industry.
Bookshelf: "I Left My Heart in Zalagoon" Bookshelf: "A True Hero?" Bookshelf: "Fighting Tactics"
Out in the castle courtyard are four soldiers.
Come on admit it. You wouldn't mind if I dropped off the face of the earth for awhile. I admit to nothing.
(W) Oh hey you're up and about. Uh, I was wondering about something. I hear Sir Samson was cursed by the Vicious Ones. Is it true?
You betcha! Steiner!
What? The curse is gone. It's not like talking about it is gonna make it come back.
It's all right Annie. I don't mind.
(W) So the Vicious Ones are real! I thought they were just a myth.
(E guard) We saw what happened with Advisor Glade. Was that also the work of the Vicious Ones?
Hell if I know.
Probably!
Prrarr! Tont sounds excited by that possibility! Think of the amazing magic at their command, Steiner! I could learn so much!
You're not seriously considering the villain thing are you? Come on now. That would just end with me getting punched in the face by a bunch of heroes. I could do just as well by being a morally ambiguous mage with an awesome lair and vast riches from a lifetime of selling my services to the highest bidder. *shakes head* (W guard) Well at least the kid's got some ambition. (E guard) He's in good company. I was touched by Sir Samson's heroic feat. I can't believe he's that strong. (W guard) A shame though. Though Advisor Glade claimed to love Zalagoon, he obviously sold his heart to Bandore.
Was he always such a snake in the grass? (W guard) For as long as I've been in the service he seemed like a decent guy.
For a decent guy he kind of left us all in a tight spot.
(W) I heard about the battle over the bridge. Don't worry. Our forces will get control of it.
(E) But it's a total stalemate down there. If we can't cross the bridge, then we can't get to Marion. I think we should come up with another tactic.
Well not to be rude or anything but we've already kind of had this conversation with Sir Bison so we'll be going now.
The main gate is open for business.
That was rather abrupt of you, Annie.
After Sir Piat and Sir Bison I'm done hearing about that bridge for awhile. Let's get the hell out of here and find something else to do for awhile.
Sounds good to me.
Hi kids!
You're not going to lock this behind us or anything are you? (both) No, you are honored guests. This is Zalagoon Castle! You are free to enter.
Excellent!
