#hiro shimono

[class1akids]

The world is healing... (Fanart by Aloo Goobi)

[fromriches-tosin]

and if I cry then what

[dexjarxenoengage]

Rex from Xenoblade 2 is notorious amongst fans for being a boring Shonen protagonist with bad voice directing and needed Future Redeemed to “be good.” Rex is my favorite Xenoblade character, and one of my favorite JRPG protagonists of all time. This analysis will show why. WARNING! Spoilers for Xenoblade 2, 1 and FR!

Shulk and Rex

Starting off with a hot take, I never hated Rex’s design. If anything, it’s the most symbolic part about Rex’s character. Plus the blue is the perfect contrast to Shulk’s red coloring, which is ironic because Rex is more of the Red Oni with Shulk being the Blue Oni.

Shulk is 18 years old, Rex is 15 years old. Rex’s age is another controversial factor, but it’s one that never bothered me. Both of their games are a coming of age stories, and Shulk, while smarter, wasn’t without fault. If anything, 18 years, while it is the “age of consent”, is still a young age in practice.

When it comes to Shulk and Rex’s relationships with Fiora and Pyra and Mythra and Nia respectively, Rex throughout the game has been the moral support of Pyra. While Shulk receives moral support from Fiora. So if anything, you could say Rex is more like Fiora.

The overall main thesis for my opinion on Rex as a character is that he embodies hope. And this isn’t just reflected with his relationship with Pyra and Mythra or Nia, it’s his role towards his friends and all of Alrest. Rex’s story is focused on hope and how to become that very thing Alrest needs.

Rex’s role in the party:

Rex embodies hope as an optimist wanting to improve the world, highlighted by his often-overlooked love for salvaging. In chapter 5, arriving at Fonsett Village in the Leftherian Archipelago, we see how the Cloud Sea and his backstory of losing his parents shape his passion for salvaging, a key part of his life, goals, and dream of reaching Elysium.

Rex's character is shaped by landmarks associated with him. Leftheria, his hometown, is another word Charity, a Heavenly Virtue, contrasting with his initial appearance in Argentum, which represents the Sin of Greed. Letheria and Argentum highlights the biggest strengths and weaknesses in Rex’s character.

On the one hand, he’s doing a good thing by providing for others. As a Salvager, he gets the team money and items for their journey through this game’s mechanics. At the same time however, Rex wanting to do the right thing his own way leads him to make reckless and stupid decisions.

Look no further than taking up Bana’s deal from the offer of 100,000 gold and getting killed by Jin for his troubles. It does pay off in the long run, and Rex did have good intentions, but you see how this gets him into trouble. Also Rex gets on the wrong foot with Nia, deeming him as a child.

But in a later conversation, as Rex talks about his goal to reach Elysium, Nia laughs it off as a fairytale. But Rex believes it could be a way to help save the dying world of Alrest. Nia is clearly pessimistic, but even still, Rex’s words did seem to affect her, as during the mission, they do seemingly become friends.

This is especially the case when Jin kills Rex when he touches Pyra’s sword. Nia is disgusted with Jin’s actions, and when Malos tries to kill the Salvagers involved, Nia had enough. Once Rex, Pyra and Azurda save her, she eventually leaves Torna behind, albeit, still feeling close to them.

Let’s just say that Jin saved her from more than just a jail cell… during Chapter 2, we get a flashback of her being saved by Jin, cut to present day and it’s Rex that saves her after meeeting with Tora and Poppi. Nia is shocked, but grateful.

- Rex: “Always help those you help you.” “That’s the second rule of the Salvager’s Code!”

It takes until after the fight with Mòrag that Rex’s influence on Nia truly begins to rub off. As she is about to leave, Rex wants her to join him on his quest to take Pyra to Elysium. And he states his reasons why:

- Rex: (…) With the Titans dying off, living space is running out...That's gonna start wars. And people need weapons to fight wars. That's why they want her. If I can prove Elysium exists, maybe I can stop the war that's coming. But... Fighting Mòrag taught me something. I'm not strong enough. I can't do this alone Nia - you're a Driver. (Causally swipes Tora out of the way, to Pyra’s shock) We could really use a companion like you... if you wanted?

While Nia argues that this may just be all nothing more than BS Pyra made up (she proves to be right to some extent), Nia finally accepts Rex’s offer at friendship. What seems like a pipe dream may be something worth pursuing after all.

- Nia: (turning to muttering to herself): An endless field of green among the clouds, eh? If the legends are true, even people like me...

Nia has her reasons to be pessimistic about the world. And though she is outwardly dismissive of Rex, deep down, what Rex is fighting for is something that slowly resonates with her more than what Malos and Jin could have done for. And this right here is how Rex embodies hope.

And this won’t be the last time either. Much of my analysis will focus on Rex’s relationship with the party members. And this won’t be the last time I talk about Nia. As her backstory and motives will become more apparent in later chapters.

The bonds between Rex and his friends

The aptitude of Rex and Tora

Rex’s team are important to his character as he is to them. So of Rex’s team, we should talk about Tora and the importance of “aptitude.” The reason why I can’t bring myself to hate Rex’s design is because his Salvager suit embodies his dream and his skills at his craft.

Rex became a Salvager, which led him to Pyra and fulfilled his dream, starting a hero's journey that turned him into something greater, despite the dire circumstances. After Rex died at Jin’s hands, he meets Pyra in “Elysium,” confirming his dreams to be possible, and validating his motives in becoming a Salvager. But that dream is cut short because Jin killed him.

Pyra gives Rex an ultimatum: to take her to Elysium. In exchange, she will give half of her life force to Rex to bring revive him as the Driver of the Aegis. Together, they will go to Elysium and fulfill their dreams.

As much as Rex is given crap for his naivety, 1. That’s the point, he is a teenager after all. 2. He gets better about this pretty quickly (mainly thanks to Vandham’s influence). And 3. Especially in this case, Rex didn’t have a choice. He can’t fulfill his dreams if he’s dead.

Rex’s character development is tied to his relationship with power and growth as a Driver. His lack of experience, compared to Addam, contributes to his self-esteem issues. Chapter 2, titled "Aptitude," explores Rex's abilities, highlighting Tora's motivations and contrasting with Mòrag's competence.

Rex's role as a Salvager is crucial in Xenoblade 2’s gameplay to get more Blades and Items, with the Salvaging Mastery field skill supporting Merc Missions. His "aptitude" is essential for being a Driver and for awakening a Blade; otherwise, one may become deadweight, as a Gormotti realized the hard way.

Rex lacks experience, not just as a Driver, but also in worldly matters that doesn’t involve salvaging. He is only beginning to learn the Driver process, despite having some firsthand experience. Rex will learn about the Blade system’s darker aspects in the next chapter.

I love that Xenoblade 2’s early chapters teach Alrest's gameplay and story through Rex. Mastery takes time and effort; understanding leads to better application of skills. Knowledge is power and depends on how you use it.

Rex’s team encounters Brighid and Mor Ardain henchmen, resulting in the capture of Nia and Dromarch. From the shadows, Tora exploits Brighid’s water weakness, enabling Rex, Pyra, and Azurda to escape and meet Tora, Sion to be Rex’s MVP. This ties into the theme of “becoming hope” and Tora’s desire to join Rex, reflecting the chapter 2 themes of “aptitude”and potential through knowledge and experience.

Tora saved Rex from Mor Ardain to make friends with other Drivers, and it was a coincidence he was there to help. In the Japanese version, Tora calls Rex “Aniki アニキ” or Big Bro out of respect, which initially embarrasses Rex, a newbie who feels undeserving of the title. Tora, being the youngest member of the future party, makes this designation appropriate and supports my view that Rex’s age is not an issue.

Another thing that adds credibility to Tora deeming Rex as a “big bro” also have to do with similarities. Both Rex and Tora start out as noob Drivers and don’t resonate with Blades naturally. Rex and Pyra were a special case, and Tora can’t resonate with Core Crystals at all.

But the difference between Rex and Tora becomes clearer when Tora demonstrates his knowledge on the Blade’s elements. What Tora lacks in the aptitude for being a Driver, he makes up for it by knowing other important aspects to becoming a Driver.

Tora teaches Rex how Blades and their elements, because he aspires to be one. It’s also foreshadowing how Pyra is different from other blades. Tora would need to know these things if he wanted to be a Driver.

Alas, you need the “aptitude” to be able to awaken a Blade. Without aptitude, you can’t have a blade, and without a blade, you can’t become a Driver. To make up for what Tora lacks, he uses his knowledge on Blades to create an Artificial Blade.

Tora is the party member that represent where Rex is starting out. While Rex is skilled at being a Salvager, he is a newbie Driver. While Tora is a newbie Driver, he is aware of what it takes to become a Driver.

A Driver’s bond with their Blade is crucial in Xenoblade 2, established early in chapter 2 with Rex and Pyra, and similarly with Tora and Poppi. Rex views Pyra as an individual, unlike Mòrag and the antagonists who see her as a weapon or tool.

Tora's childish nature and poor social skills lead him to treat Poppi inappropriately, but outside of H2H, such moments are rare. There are instances that show their mutual care. Learning to be a Driver and building a relationship with Blades are different yet interconnected, highlighting the development of “aptitude.”

Tora helps Rex excel in skills he lacks, like strategic critical thinking and understanding Blades in battle. Rex relies on others for skills he struggles with. As Amalthus states, “we are all cut out for different things.” Tora shows Rex how little he can do alone.

You can hate Tora all you want, but he is crucial to Rex's team and their success. Poppi may hard carry Tora’s character, but he became one of Rex's top allies. Thanks to him and Poppi, Rex, Pyra and everyone else managed to escape from Mòrag.

As far as the team dynamic goes after Rex recruits Tora and Nia, can one consider Rex to be the leader of his new merry band? I would say yes; 1. Tora joined Rex because of Rex himself, not because of Pyra. And 2. It’s Rex who convinces Nia to stay with them. Rex is a “leader” because he is the one keeping his team together. Not through power and/or skills, but because of who he is as person.

Xenoblade has taught me, especially with Shulk and Melia’s characters, that there only so much that we can do by ourselves. Rex has to learn this lesson, albeit a bit differently. And that’s why Tora is important to Rex’s team.

The lessons from Vandham

Although Rex doesn’t realize this, he has become a hope bringer. And one of the important things about being a hope bringer and a leader is the importance of knowing your limitations. And Chapter 2 is meant to teach Rex this lesson.

And while it’s all well and good that he wants to save Alrest and help Pyra. The problem is, how is he going to do that if he doesn’t know what he needs to do in order to make that happen? Hope is only a lie when it’s born of ignorance. This is something Rex needs to learn if he wants to succeed.

Chapter 3 is one of the chapters that truly begins to develop Rex. Rex in this chapter learns to a better Driver, gains more perspective on the world of Alrest, and takes his first and most difficult step in his task to protect Pyra. Enter Vandham.

Every protagonist needs a good mentor. Vandham is no exception. When Rex fights Mòrag again in the next chapter, the stark contrast between both fights with her will become apparent. In the brief time Rex has with him, Vandham taught Rex three important lessons. 1. How to properly handle a Blade’s power. 2. The Blades system’s harsh reality. 3. The importance of war and power.

Remember to keep in mind that Rex is supposed to embody “hope.” The question I asked is how to become Hope… Rex is someone who has to learn about the truths about Alrest, both the good and the bad. Treating the world all good is just as bad as seeing the world as all bad.

It’s not that Rex is ignorant of the fact that Alrest isn’t a perfect world. In chapter 1, we are explicitly shown that Rex understands Alrest is on the verge of collapse. But Rex has been doing Salvaging most of his life and not much else. He’s completely ignorant about the history of the world until meeting Mòrag and Vandham.

Rex (and myself) treat the world of Alrest with wonder and marvel despite the dark sides to it. But Pyra is shown to be heavily burdened by the state of the world that her “father” created. Rex doesn’t realize that Pyra is suffering from her own despair because of the world she lives in.

Rex learned that a Driver's death returns the Blade to their core crystals and strips them of their memories when revived by a new Driver. Despite the dark aspects, Rex marvels at Alrest, while Pyra is burdened by her father's creation. Rex is unaware of Pyra’s despair due to their world. Understanding these darker elements, particularly regarding Blades like the Aegises and Jin's loss, is crucial for Rex’s character.

As the story continues, once Rex begins to learn about more about the state of Alrest. Rex will begin to learn and develop his own answers on the world. Even if the world he’s fighting for isn’t perfect, there is still something beautiful about it.

The world of Alrest and the harsh realities of the Blades all play into the third and most important lesson that Rex learns from Vandham: what it means to fight your own war.

Vandham’s speech about war is pretty potent. When you think about it, even something as simple as food is something armies need to survive. The idea of war and how that plays a role in life is a crucial part of not just this game, but in real life.

I want to take note of Vandham’s speech mentioning Pyra. As chapter 3 goes on, his words to Rex are meant to challenge. Either A, he did intent to have Rex abandon Pyra, but changed his mind after Rex’s potential. Or B. This was a secret test of character for Rex to see if he would.

Judging by Vandham’s smile in that scene, I’d say that it’s the latter option. The latter option also makes better sense; because 1. It fits with Vandham’s role as the mentor to Rex. And 2. What Vandham teaches to Rex as the chapter goes on were meant to help Rex grow stronger for Pyra.

It’s important to remember that Rex and Pyra’s “resonance” in chapter 1 makes their life forces linked to each other, meaning that both of them could die if the other does. Rex sees this as motivation to support Pyra. Her saving his life drives his resolve to help her.

If Vandham intended to have Rex abandon Pyra, it would signal a shift in his thoughts. His expression conveys this clearly. If he wanted Rex to abandon Pyra for his safety, it might stem from his loss of a son, with Rex being a reminder of him. Additionally, caring for young ones is part of his role as the lead Mercenary in Garfont Village.

After Rex and Co. meet and fight Akhos, Pyra is injured and needs respite. We are about to be hit with another great Vandham speech. One that isn’t still sunshine and rainbows, but with more hope and insight that is easily the most valuable part of Xenoblade as a whole.

- Vandham: Hey, Rex... Know what the difference is between me and that Akhos fella?

- Rex: Well, he's a bad guy, trying to get Pyra...and you're...not?

- Vandham: Hehe! Thanks for the vote of confidence, kid. What if I told you that we weren't that different?

- Rex: Huh?

- Vandham: My crew at the village, we think we're fighting for justice. But, a just fight? I'm tellin' you now, there's no such thing. What people call justice? It's just an excuse to fight. War is war. The more you stand up for yourself, the more people wanna fight you. Before you know it, you're in a war. Listen. All I'm saying is, we got our fight, and he's got his.

- Rex: But what he's doing is-

- Vandham: Yeah, it's bad. But war ain't about right and wrong. Power. That's all it is. And power can take many different forms. It depends on the heart of its wielder. If we don't use our power, just 'cos we're scared of it, we're done for. As for who's right and who's wrong... No one knows for sure. So, all we can do, is protect what's important.

- Rex: I think I understand.

- Vandham: We all got our own war, kid.

- Rex: My… war?

The difference between Vandham’s speech before and this speech here is Vandham was talking about the struggles of being in the war. While this speech is about the fight in said war. And it’s not just the war that’s soon to come. It’s about the war within oneself.

War is a central theme in the Xenoblade franchise, but 2 offers the most nuanced example IMO. The game focuses on the 500-year aftermath of the Aegis War and its impact on Pyra and Jin. Despite Jin and his crew's wrongdoings, we must understand their hatred towards the world. Jin and Torna serve as the evil counterparts to Rex and his team, which becomes clearer as the story progresses.

Speaking of Torna, near the end of chapter 3, Malos and Akhos have kidnapped Minoth’s child, Iona. Using her to lure Pyra into meeting with them alone. Rex and the others thankfully show up to help her. But unfortunately, the fight begins to go sideways for Rex’s team and it would spell the beginning of the end for Vandham.

There’s much about the cutscene as Vandham that needs to be said, but this cutscene works perfectly in a way that makes his sacrifice hit harder than it would have otherwise. Also, Vandham’s VA did an incredible job. R.I.P. my underutilized GOAT.

Before we talk more about Vandham’s sacrifice, we need to go back to Xenoblade 1. We need to talk about one of the defining cutscenes of Xenoblade 1. And that’s Fiora’s death at the hands of Metal Face.

Fiora survived the ordeal, albeit after becoming a faced unit. Vandham’s death is permanent and no Dragon Balls can save him. Shulk’s rage moment against Metal Face allowed them to shave him off and he looks like a bad🤬 for it. While Rex tries to fight back, gets knocked on the floor, and look like a wimp for his troubles.

It’s an unfair comparison that is used to 💩 on Rex for being forced into an unwinnable situation. I get that Fiora’s death would motivate Shulk to get revenge, it’s one of my favorite moments in the franchise. Regardless, Rex raging out at Vandham’s death makes just as much sense.

Even if he only knew Vandham for a couple of days, it doesn’t meant that Rex shouldn’t care about others. Rex is a kind hearted individual and is selfless to a fault. Even if Vandham was just a person he met an hour ago, if he bonded with that person who died for his sake, would still have fought or cried for him. Like with chapter 5 when Fan Haze is killed by Jin.

Moreover, Rex’s moment of rage is played more realistically compared to Shulk and many other instances of Rex’s case in other anime. True, Mythra has to come save the day, but Vandham is still dead. And over something that wasn’t even Rex’s fault.

Speaking of Mythra, many would say that this is an unearned power up for Rex. While I can the point, Mythra came out because she cared about Rex. Because Rex’s kindness won over Pyra and Mythra, Mythra saving Rex was earned in a sense. That, and Mythra was foreshadowed for most of the game up to now.

In any case, Rex and Co. survived a tough battle, but at what cost? Vandham lays dead, and Rex is left weeping under the sunrise. This is the point where Al Weaver’s voice delivery was improving, and it’s also one of the moments I praise Rex’s Japanese VA Hiro Shimono for his gut wrenching performance.

So what have Rex and Co. learned? Simply speaking; misery builds character. As a certain Fullmetal Alchemist would say, there is no such thing as a painless lesson. Learning to overcome pain is the only way to keep moving forward. This was a growing experience for Rex, Pyra, Mythra and Nia.

For Rex, losing Vandham causes doubt in his abilities as the Aegis Driver. He couldn't protect Pyra or save Vandham. This all reaches its breaking point at the start of chapter 7.

To me, the saddest part of Vandham’s death is that it could have been avoided. Mythra and Nia both had the powers that could have saved Vandham sooner and defeat Akhos and Malos at the same time. But they let their fears get in the way of doing what was right.

One cannot truly know hope without knowing how to overcome despair. As I stated before, knowledge is power. Rex has the aspirations to become Hope. But without the power to become hope, his words will become hollow.

Back to present day in chapter 4, I have to commend Rex for how well he handled Vandham’s death. During this entire moment, Rex doesn’t shift the blame onto anyone for Vandham’s death. He calmly accepts his sacrifice and promises to stand by Vandham’s final words.

And then how Rex handles Mythra flying off the handle onto him. There’s much to say about Mythra here and her reasoning behind her behavior. For now, I just want to take time to appreciate the fact that Rex isn’t afraid to admit that he made a mistake. That takes a lot of guts.

Had Rex blamed Mythra for not saving Vandham sooner, I wouldn’t blame him. Her presence changed everything. If she had come out earlier, Vandham would’ve survived.

And as much as it doesn’t justify her behavior, Mythra being upset about having to come back is understandable. But her complicated feelings for Rex begins to make more sense with the events of Torna the Golden Country in mind.

Everything that happened at the end of last chapter parallels with what happened to Mythra. Both lost someone they cared about, and both gave in to their anger. The consequences here could have been just as bad as with Mythra, maybe even worse.

Chapter 4 may not be the best chapter in the game, but it does more for Rex’s character than one might think. And that’s because it follows Vandham’s sacrifice. Most of this chapter is focused on Rex learning to bond with Mythra. Hence why the Chapter name is called “Aegis.”

The other thing worth mentioning is Roc’s Core Crystal sidequest. As much as people say it was a huge waste of time, a criticism I don’t completely disagree with, it was still a good way to end off Vandham’s character IMO.

The sidequest itself also reminds of the importance of the Blade system. The sad fact that the Blades lose their memories after their old Driver dies. But through the bonds that old Driver has with others, their memories can be passed onto the next generation. Another important aspect of this game that will shape Rex’s answer to life later on.

And finally, it’s a good chance for Rex to get emotional closure over the man that saved his life, and the lives of the rest of his friends. Even Roc’s lines here serve as the message behind the Blade system as a whole, as harsh as it is.

In terms of writing, XC2 Vandham’s greatest strength was how well he played his role in story, however brief it was. His legacy would continue through Roc, the Garfont Mercenaries (who Rex will be the leader of in his place) as well as Rex’s growing relationship with his friends.

Rivalry and Legacy with Mòrag

We return to chapter 2 to discuss Mòrag, Rex’s adversary turned ally in chapter 4. The fight with the Mòrag and Brighid show Rex that he has a long way to go before for he can achieve his dream. This fight, and the moral debate that comes with it, is the battle that shapes Rex’s resolve going forward to protect Pyra.

Mòrag and Brighid serves as Rex and Pyra’s first major foils. Pyra and Brighid are Fire Blades who are wielded by an inexperienced Driver in Rex, and an experienced Driver in Mòrag. Mòrag and Brighid already have a strong bond and talent, Rex is at Rock Bottom on both counts.

- Mòrag: The power of the Aegis is formidable, but the Driver’s skill betrays her…

After the battle with Rex, Mòrag noted that Rex held back against her. And again, Rex and the others were explicitly the weaker links in this fight. After a little bit of time to ponder on Rex’s words and actions, she decides to wait and see how things play out.

Rex unknowingly earned Mòrag and Brighid’s respect, despite being the weaker than them. Their victory in keeping Pyra safe was meaningful if even the Special Inquisitor and a Crown Jewel respected him, though this respect is briefly lost in chapter 4. Because Poppi, Rex’s ally, is mistaken for another Artificial Blade causing problems.

Unlike the fight in chapter 2, this fight a lot more even thanks to Mythra’s foresight and Vandham’s teachings. Mòrag is used as measuring stick for how far Rex has gone in terms of experience and power. Once that’s done, there was no need for Mòrag to be an antagonist anymore.

Rex once again doesn’t try to “attack” Mòrag. The latter takes it as disrespect, but Rex states that he doesn’t want to fight Mòrag. Judging by this, it’s obvious that Rex felt the same way in Chapter 2. It’s proof that Rex is not self serving when it comes to the Aegis’s power.

Thankfully, Niranira, who Rex is acquainted with, is here to stop the fighting and proof the innocence of both him and his friends. Mòrag apologizes for the misunderstanding and she asks for Rex’s cooperation to save Mor Ardain and help find Tora’s father. With a handshake offer, Rex happily agrees.

Becoming hope for Mòrag means Rex becomes hope for all of Alrest. Mòrag is a very important figure in Alrest despite not being the leader of Empire, that’s the role of her cousin: Niall. The same applies to Zeke, who is the prince of Tantal.

In Mòrag’s eyes, this team up is nothing more than a brief alliance against a common enemy. Rex’s character would eventually give Mòrag a place to belong besides just being Niall’s protector. Thanks to making an alliance with Rex, Mòrag gets to see if Rex has the potential she sees in him.

Mòrag doesn’t count herself as Rex’s friend just and yet, and neither does Nia. Keep in mind that Mòrag used Nia in order to lure Rex and Pyra out. Nia is none too happy to know that she is working with her kidnapper.

Nia makes it clear she wants nothing to do with Mòrag, who represents the Empire. Even Dromarch's points out Mòrag makes a better ally than an enemy. With Rex's encouragement, Nia reluctantly accepts Mòrag, showing her gradual shift from cynicism for the greater good.

Nia is right to believe that we shouldn’t be too chummy with the Flamebringer just yet. When Rex encounters Zeke again, Mòrag declines on join the fight, much to Rex’s confusion. This is in small part to Mòrag’s rivalry with Zeke.

The other reason may be, again, the same reason she wanted to team up with Rex in the first place: to see where his potential lies. Mòrag doesn’t see herself as Rex’s friend just yet. Rex to her, is an ally at best, and an accomplice at worst.

The important part of Mòrag’s reasoning for joining Rex lies with Addam. Addam is the previous Aegis Driver prior to Rex. So through Rex and Pyra, Mòrag is reliving the story of the Aegis.

This conversation with Mòrag and Pyra could only happen because of what she sees in Rex. This is a conversation that has more impact when taking Torna: The Golden Country in mind. As Rex and Mòrag serve as the Aegis Driver and representative of Mor Ardain as Addam and Hugo were in the past; as they were the previous Drivers of Mythra and Brighid respectively.

In Chapter 5 and later 6 continues with the ongoing problem with Mor Ardain going to war with Uraya (with Jin’s influence involved). Rex volunteers to help Mòrag in her military affairs. During the conversation, Rex does briefly get called out for the water tower incident. But Rex uses this as an excuse to convince Mòrag to let him and the others help her.

Uraya and Mor Ardain are on the brink of war. And Mòrag is bound by duty due to Mor Ardain’s attack. Before Rex and his team leave for Tantal with Mòrag, they must address unfinished business: Bana.

I like that Mòrag learns to rely on others. She knows Rex is the first person she can ask for help. To thwart an assassination attempt and get back at Bana, Rex agrees to help.

Sadly, Niall (Mòrag’s cousin) dies protecting everyone, leaving Mòrag in grief. However, in an act of kindness and bravery, Nia uses her powers to bring Niall back to life. This moment reflects Nia’s character development due to Rex’s influence.

Afterwards, Niall and Mòrag has a conversation that will change Mòrag’s perspective. Niall expresses the importance of Rex’s influence on Mòrag. Mòrag’s power should be used to protect all of Alrest, not just Mor Ardain. And if Rex’s goal to reach Elysium could be a way to accomplish that goal, then it’s a chance worth taking.

With Mòrag’s new goals set for herself, she would become Rex’s true ardent ally and friend. Much like how their predecessors were 500 years ago. It’s thanks to Rex’s faith in his cause and in her that Mòrag truly accepted Rex.

The chaotic wisdom of Zeke Von Genbu

And now, The most evil driver in Alrest; Zeke Von Genbu, Bringer of Chaos, arrives! If you look at the title screen of chapter 3, Zeke’s image can be made out instead of Vandham’s. A neat bit of foreshadowing for his role as a party member.

Zeke contrasts with Mòrag as they are both older, more experienced Drivers compared to Rex in skills and worldly knowledge. With Addam being a key motive in their actions. In Zeke’s case, we focus on Addam’s role towards the people.

Going back to the themes of hope, there are plenty of aspects of how Rex is Zeke’s hope and vice versa. Zeke is the most emotional intelligent member of Rex’s party IMO. It is Zeke’s greatest strength.

We later know that Zeke proves to be just as powerful as Mòrag is, maybe even more. If Zeke wanted Pyra, he could have taken her, as Rex noted. This highlights a key difference between Mòrag and Zeke, foreshadowing Zeke's purer intentions, and improving Rex's judge of character.

Rex in chapter 1 quickly trusted Bana for easy cash, mainly for Fonsett. By chapter 3, Rex's judgment of character seems to improve with Zeke's arrival. And by Chapter 5, Rex deduces Zeke’s not evil.

- Zeke: You're still holding back. Where's the Aegis's true power?

- Rex: Mythra's power is only for fighting bad guys.

- Zeke: Aw, that's so sweet. So I'm a good guy now, is that it?!

- Rex: Am I wrong?

When Zeke officially joins Rex and Co., his reasons were more personal to him. The Torna Organization was using the name of the deceased Titan that died during the Aegis war. His motivation becomes clearer in the next chapter.

Zeke and the Tantalese are descendants of Addam and Torna's people. Knowing Jin, the Paragon of Torna, teams up with the Aegis that started the war destroying it 500 years ago annoys him. Therefore, Zeke offers to help Rex reach Elysium by obtaining the Omega Fetter from Tantal.

Once Rex, Zeke, and others arrive in Tantal, Zeke receives a harsh wake-up call from his father after locking everyone up and planning to kill Pyra, also putting Rex's life at risk. Zettar’s hatred for Addam led him to form Tantal, falsely claiming the people are related to him. This revelation devastated Zeke, deepening his disdain for Tantal's self-serving ways.

- Zeke: This country's strangling itself to death with its own web of lies and excuses! But just maybe...our chum could break it free...

- Pandoria: Rex could?

- Zeke: No faith, eh?

- Pandoria: Hey, whatever. If you believe in him, my Prince, I'm with you all the way.

- Zeke: That kid's heart is pure. Too pure for his own good, sometimes. But isn't it our duty as adults to give him a little help with that?

- Pandoria: Probably. You know, this is what I like about you.

- Zeke: This won't be easy...

- Pandoria Oh quit it with your drama! When is anything ever easy for you?

- Zeke: Heh. Let's go!

Zeke believes Rex is his hope because Rex can unite Alrest, which is key to breaking Tantal's isolation. Zettar's jealousy of Addam caused Tantal's poor state. Zeke could seek revenge on Rex for stealing his "birthright," but chooses to believe in Rex's potential for change.

With Zeke’s help, Rex and others save Pyra, stop Eulogimenos, and discover Addam’s secret trial vital for discussing Pyra and Mythra. However, Genbu begins to malfunction due to the Ether Accelerator and needs the Omega Fetter to heal. Thankfully, Pyra is willing to help prevent Tantal’s destruction, echoing Rex's words.

Sadly, we know what happens next. Torna and Jin arrive to take the Omega Fetter and Pyra. Jin uses his full power to defeat our heroes, leading to Pyra’s kidnapping.

In the next chapter, Rex is left spiritually crushed, and his friends have to punch the despair out him. King Eulogimenos apologizes for his actions, and hints at the third Aegis sword, that could give the Aegis girls the edge against Jin. Afterwards, the King of Tantal asks Zeke to take care of Rex.

Like Niall, Eulogimenos states the importance of Rex’s character over the Aegis. Rex’s light is something that must never go out. In the same chapter where that event was close at hand.

Compared to Mòrag, Zeke was fully on board with being Rex’s ally. Whereas Mòrag needed some persuasion. I can see why Rex looks up to Zeke.

The bond between Pyra and Mythra (ft. Addam and Nia)

Rex positivity impacted the world around him. And his friends helped him grow into the person Pyra and Mythra needed in turn. These factors are key to Rex’s success with Pyra and Mythra over Addam. Although Rex is often compared to Addam, the difference lies they treated Mythra.

Addam treats Lora and Jin with equity and shares a mutual friendship with Hugo. However, he acts as a parent to Mythra, who is seen as a child. 500 years ago, Mythra was quite childish, as reflected in her dynamic with Millton. Mythra and Milton are Addam’s kids in all but blood.

Because Addam treats Mythra as a child, she acts like one, and needs to disciplined like one. As seen when Team Torna encountered Brighid and required Hugo's intervention. Addam's treatment has its merits, teaching Mythra the lesson that "with great power comes great responsibility," which she learned perhaps too well, but it was still important.

In any other universe, Mythra and Malos' roles could have been reversed. As in Mythra is the one who uses her powers for the heck of it and use it to burn anyone who rubs her the wrong way. As demonstrated with Mythra's fight with Brighid in Torna.

Mythra is a child who needed good influences so that her powers are used for good. The problem is that she doesn’t have a close bond with her allies. Even still, she does show that she cares about them as the game continues. Near the end of Torna, Mythra realizes she can't fight Malos alone and embraces the Driver-Blade bond.

Even though Addam didn't use her power safely, he helped Mythra become a better person. A Blade is shaped by the Driver's resonance, and the people you meet impact your identity. This extends beyond Blades and Drivers; it's part of life.

Mythra being like a child is meant to be a Metaphor. The last sidequest in Torna reveals that he has a wife. So Addam clearly sees himself as a dad, and this mindset explains Mythra's immaturity.

This contrasts with Jin and Lora's romantic relationship. Consider Mythra's talk with Jin before the final fight against Malos in Torna, where Jin expresses the importance of his bond with Lora and his desire to protect it. This is something Addam and Mythra don't have.

Relationships require affinity, not just the blade kind. Lora and Jin are lovers; while Addam and Mythra have a father-daughter bond. Both involve love, but it's not the same.

The world of Alrest centers on the bond between Drivers and Blades. To maximize power, the connection must be equal on both sides, regardless if you’re an Aegis or the Paragon of Torna. Jin and Lora's effectiveness in battle comes from the Vanguard Switch system they developed. Addam and Mythra adopted it from a team with a more balanced bond.

The final clash between Mythra and Malos exemplifies how the Driver-Blade bond should not function, largely due to Malos, who attacks the Tornan Capital unprovoked while Mikhail and Milton are still in it. Milton and Mythra are like siblings who annoy but still value one another. Mythra supported Jin and the others' decision to keep the kids out of harms way in the capital.

Mythra is devastated seeing that someone she cared for was killed. She awakens her incomplete Pneuma sword, which Addam can't control. Although Malos was defeated, Torna and the neighboring Titans are destroyed, and Hugo dies protecting Addam from a blast.

Mythra's pseudo awakening to the Pneuma sword resembles a Dark Digivolution, like Megidramon from Digimon Tamers, stemming from negative emotions such as anger and sorrow due to a friend's death. While anger and sadness are part of being human, power hinges on the heart; losing control can lead to catastrophe.

Afterwards, Mythra bear witness to consequences of her actions. Mythra’s despair derives from her powers inadvertently hurting the people she wanted to protect. By the end, all Mythra can do is cry out in anguish.

Pyra was created to embody what Mythra could be: calmer, more social, less reliant on powers, a better cook, and above all, kind. Mythra was disliked for her cooking, temper, and lack of sympathy. However, Torna reveals her insecurities, and over time, Mythra becomes a kinder, though still arrogant, individual.

Pyra reflects Mythra's potential and insecurities, wanting to avoid hurting others. She can be assertive, but doubts arise around Rex. Pyra’s good cooking skills are inspired by talented cooks like Jin and Aegaeon. She meets them through Addam, so their influence was helping Mythra grow.

But again, as a result of the events of the Aegis war, Mythra hated herself too much to realize her own potential. And thus, Pyra came to be to be that person for her. But because Pyra shares in Mythra's memories, her insecurities became her own too.

Going back to Addam, he did teach Mythra the importance of the bond between people (not just Driver and Blade). He also taught Mythra the grave responsibility that comes with the power she possesses. The latter lesson was a lesson that Mythra learned a little too well.

Because of the great burden and the fear that she now carries in her heart, Mythra (and Pyra) are too afraid to live out of fear that someone will use their powers for evil, or they themselves become the weapons of mass destruction that Malos believes them to be.

It’s worth noting that in Mythra's despair and rage against Malos, she has a vision of a certain boy. Jin's prediction that Mythra's true affinity lying in the future was true. Mythra’s true affinity lies with Rex.

With this vision in mind, Mythra and Rex's argument and reasons behind the former's actions all make sense. Rex is Mythra and Pyra's fated Driver, and despite her behavior, she cares about Rex just as much as Pyra does.

Addam is the one to help Mythra understand the importance of the connections with others and the responsibility that comes with great power. Rex's duty as her Driver is to lead that power to the right path and accept her for who she is.

Rex's journey with Pyra and Mythra is more than just romance. It is about helping them overcome their fears: Fear of being seen as a weapon. Fear of being a burden to everyone around them. This next part will be focused on the bond between the Aegis and her Driver.

Rex and Pyra's relationship revolves around her Core Crystal, which revives Rex. Rex touching Pyra’s Core Crystal isn’t that different than resonances with other Blades. If Rex were unworthy of being Pyra's Driver, he'd be rejected and likely die, regardless of Jin; Mythra's vision explains their successful resonance.

This brings me to their synchronization. Weirdly, Rex and Pyra didn’t show signs of sharing pain in chapter 1. IMO, the reason this plot point was introduced in chapter 2 was to show Rex and Pyra’s bond becoming stronger.

Despite the pain, Rex expresses gratitude for it. Best exemplified in chapter 3 and 6. To him, this is what separates Rex and the Aegis from other Driver and Blades.

- Rex: Ever since Pyra gave me half her life force and we swore to reach Elysium, things have been rough. But... (He remembers the time he and Pyra sat by the fire with their identically-bandaged arms.) I'm actually glad. They feel like a sign of...our bond, I guess? Something special we share, as Driver and Blade.

Blades are influenced by their Drivers upon resonance, and that's the reason Pyra and Mythra grow closer to Rex. It's Rex's kindness and optimism that helps bring out the best in them. Pyra is not just the Aegis, to Rex, Pyra is Pyra.

The debate between him and Mórag about the Aegis war leads Rex to want to protect Pyra, despite his misunderstanding of Mórag. Ultimately, Rex only wants what's best for Pyra, marking the moment their relationship begins to develop. And this is especially shown with the campfire scene.

Remember that Pyra is the first girl Rex shows romantic interest in and Vice Versa. Mythra and Nia needed more time to be honest about their feelings for the young salvager. And remember that Rex and Nia didn’t start on the right foot at first.

Pyra rarely expresses excitement, so it’s a shock to her friends when she said she wanted to see Rex’s childhood home. This is entirely her idea; Nia and Mythra didn't decide this. Pyra wants to know Rex better, and this helps Nia understand why salvaging is important to Rex.

The scene where Rex and Pyra visits his parents’ graves is one of my favorite moments between Rex and Pyra. This moment highlights how much comfort Rex brings to Pyra. So after seeing Pyra’s conversation with Corinne with Rex’s backstory, this next part hurts me.

- Corinne (almost crying): That boy has suffered enough loss for one life. That's why he became a salvager, you know. To find some way up to Elysium.

- Pyra: In that case... Maybe it's not good for me to be by Rex's side after all...

- Corinne: Why, are you not fond of him?

- Pyra: Oh, I am! (Even saying that she loves Rex in the Japanese version, something she does sooner than Mythra and Nia) But, with me here...he'll suffer even more, lose even more. So maybe... Maybe Rex is better off without me. Rex...and the whole world. They don't need me. That's just how it feels.

What Pyra needs to find hope and a reason to live. However, fearing the danger she poses to Rex holds them back from their true potential. Pyra must trust Rex with her darker feelings, and Rex must learn to accept them.

Mythra's bond with Rex is complicated due to their rocky start, especially during the Vandham grave scene and their **ahem** …“intimate” moment before heading to Mor Ardain. When Rex meets Mythra again, the latter asks that if she would prefer it if she was Pyra, making the wrong assumption of him again. Rex's patience and the Artificial Blade attack in Mor Ardain allow Mythra and Rex to bond, especially during Tora's reunion with his father.

- Mythra: *sniff*

(Rex is shocked by Mythra’s reaction, but he gives her an handkerchief to comfort her)

- Mythra: Thanks...

It’s a brief moment, one that mainly focuses on Tora more than Rex or Mythra, but I love that Rex was showing Mythra compassion. Moreover, I love that Mythra was grateful for Rex’s kind act.

In chapter 6, during Haze’s funeral, Rex is seen grieving over her death. Mythra confirms that it was Pyra’s idea to leave Rex to grieve on his own, to Nia’s surprise. This is important for the last chapter, adding depth to the Aegis girls and how they handle Rex’s conflicts.

Mythra's struggle to open up to Rex stems from how the Aegis War in Torna broke her. If Rex tries to bond with her, one wrong move could undo everything. She is afraid to be vulnerable, as she doesn't want to hurt Rex or face more pain herself.

Pyra and Mythra's true goal in wanting Rex to take them to Elysium is to have The Architect end their lives. But it’s becoming increasingly clear how much Rex has come to mean to them. Pyra is forced to hand herself over to Jin in order to save Rex was the hardest she could do.

And so, we get to Chapter 7, Chapter 7 of Xenoblade 2 is my favorite chapter in all of Xenoblade. This chapter is why I formatted this character analysis to portray Rex as hope for the world and his friends. During which, he visits Spirit Crucible Elpys, symbolizing hope, tying everything together.

However, chapter 7 starts with Rex attempting to leave the party and return to salvaging. This is after being defeated by Full Powered Jin and having Pyra taken from him. Most of his friends are saddened by this, and a few others are disgusted.

Rex's giving up makes sense considering how Vandham and Fan La Norme’s deaths affected him. But he was able to push through because he still had Pyra and Mythra at his side. So I feel losing the girls and Jin’s words towards Rex is what broke him.

- Jin: Look at the state of you...

- Rex: ...!

- Jin: You hadn't even noticed? Your own Blade has been wounded so deeply... and all you can think of is yourself. You awakened the Aegis... I thought you might have been different. But you're just... a fool. A pitiful, childish... fool.

It all came down to his role as the Driver of Aegis. Remember that Rex takes what people say to heart. Rex considers people's feelings in his own way, which helps him grow and change.

Rex is surprised when Jin tells him how much emotional pain Pyra was in, while Rex only thinks about saving her without grasping what she needs saving from. The source of Pyra and Mythra’s despair is what Rex should address, but he is distracted by his dream of saving Alrest, which conflicts with their goals.

Rex's main flaw is his desire to save people his own way. While well-intentioned, he can't save everyone, and not everyone can be saved his way, e.g. Vandham's sacrifice. Rex's quest for Elysium to "find the answers we are all seeking" also blinds him to Pyra and Mythra's needs, compounded by their own reluctance to share their fears.

Rex's deep connection with Pyra and Mythra made their loss impactful. Blades mirror their Drivers, and Rex's struggles with self-confidence stemmed from living up to Addam's standards, failing to save Vandham and Fan, and not recognizing what was hurting Pyra and Mythra. While their hope influenced him, he was affected by their despair.

- Rex: When I became the Driver of the Aegis, her Driver... I felt like I could do anything. But I was just kidding myself. All I've managed to do is hurt her, again and again. So...I'm done.

What I love about this cutscene is not because of Rex himself. I love it because of how Rex’s friends react. Harsh as it is, try to understand where they are coming from.

Nia’s reaction to Rex giving up resonates due to their chat in chapter 1. Nia believed people are inherently selfish, but Rex's influence helps her overcome her pessimism. Nia wouldn’t have trusted Pyra, Mythra, or Mòrag without Rex’s influence.

Nia wasn’t upfront about it, but she admired Rex for who he was. Rex is the reason Nia got her character development. Rex giving up hope and abandoning Pyra is going against everything she admired about him.

- Nia: You...bloody... IDIOT! (Knocks the boy flat on his cheeks into some barrels) Hurts, yeah? But that pain's nothing compared to what Pyra must be feeling right now! She went with those bastards knowing full well how much it would hurt. For our sake, not hers!

Rex has always understood others, even in stressful situations (e.g., Mythra after Vandham’s death). However, he feels worthless to Pyra, believing he only causes her pain. He thinks he’s weak for failing to protect her and believes she deserves better, mirroring her own feelings about herself.

- Brighid’s words and actions toward Rex in chapter 7 hit hard because her relationship with Pyra and Mythra is healthier than 500 years ago; she wants to save Pyra as much as Nia. A far cry from Mythra and Brighid’s relationship 500 years ago.

Brighid likely wouldn't care for Rex if not for his impact on Mòrag. Brighid values her Driver and Blade relationship with Mòrag. So much that, in a similar vain as Nia, she’s disgusted that Rex would say Pyra would be better off without him.

The reason why this moment a "Rex and Pyra" moment is because of what IMO, Nia and Brighid are trying to convey to Rex. Rex is too important in Pyra and Mythra’s lives to just abandon them. And then a certain Artificial Blade drives something home.

- Poppi: Nia quite right! Rex definitely not behave like himself! Giving up after one loss? That not Rex I know at all!

- Rex: But-

- Poppi: Now is not time for excuses! (Seemingly ready to deck Rex in the face, only for it to be a tap to the head)

- Rex: P-Poppi?

- Poppi: Poppi is hurt to see Rex like this. Poppi and Masterpon are not real Blade and Driver. So Poppi and Masterpon looked up to Rex lots. Rex worked very very hard to get this far. When Rex tries hard, Poppi and Masterpon try hard. Rex like bullseye we aim for. Without Rex, we not know which way to go. So please... Rex cannot give up and stop here.

- Rex: Poppi…

Rex needed to hear Poppi's words, which emphasized why she, Tora, Pyra, Mythra, and the group need him. It's not about being the Driver of the Aegis, but about who Rex is to them. Or more precisely, it’s about what being the Driver of the Aegis means to him.

It reminds Rex, as stated in chapter 2, that he can’t do everything alone. While Pyra and Mythra are strong, they need Rex to bring out their full potential. Eulogimenos’ clues in the party about the Third Aegis sword; With Rex's resolve restored and the party’s words conveyed, he finds his way again.

- Rex: I'm going to be the Driver that Pyra and Mythra deserve! And then I'm going to take them to Elysium!

I love Chapter 7 of Xenoblade 2 so much because it the culmination Rex's influence on his friends. This includes the turning point in his relationship with Pyra and Mythra, Nia's backstory, and Zeke's revelation as a Blade Eater. And of course the argument from earlier.

I’m not saying Rex influenced their backstories like Zeke's near death and meeting Amalthus, Nia's family background before meeting Jin. I'm saying that the trust that Rex has built up in his friends led to one thing to the next, like Nia’s choice to reveal her Flesh Eater form. Nia's character development largely stems from Rex.

- Nia: I am burdened no longer. Not by my past, not by Jin. I am finally free!

- Rex: A Blade? (A soft swirl of water envelops Rex.) What the-? (He holds up his hand in confusion. Nia takes it in hers.)

- Nia: Nia: I'm no longer afraid. This is who I am, Rex! What's the point in living if I have to hide? Thank you for helping me see. I love you, Rex.

- Rex: (vague confusion) Wha-?!

Some complain Rex "strips away" character development from more "interesting" characters. I disagree with this, however; Nia's development matches, and in some cases exceeds, Rex. Nia growth is her growing out of her cynicism thanks to Rex and her learning from Vandham and Fan La Norme's deaths.

It’s thanks to Rex’s patience with Nia and partly thanks to Zeke she even talks about her backstory. She found courage and hope because Rex accepted her. And this is the prime thing Rex needs to know about himself to save Pyra and Mythra.

- Addam: It is not necessary to protect everything. There is a limit to what one man can do.

- Rex: That's true...

- Addam: But, there is something granted to you especially.

- Rex: Please, tell me what it is.

- Addam: The power to accept her. She is afraid. Of her own power and her terrible destiny. And I, too, was afraid. I feared the true power of the Aegis. Heh. Your will to fight comes from your will to protect. Blades and mortals are linked. When you take on the weight of all the fear she carries, then you will be her true Driver.

The power was already with him, he just to realize it was there. And that's the reason even the Third Aegis Sword crumbled away, Rex had what he needed to awaken Pyra and Mythra's true form. And it also could be at least one reason why Pyra and Mythra were able to keep their memories of Rex when Malos tampers with them.

Watching Pyra suffer as Malos took her memories hurts me. Her agonizing screams were heartbreaking, especially since the same Pyra who said forgetting can be a blessing is fighting to keep her memories of Rex. This shows how much Rex means to her.

Even with hope dying out, Rex contrasts with the chapter's beginning by taking a stand against Malos and Jin in his true form. After being called out by his friends and lectured by Addam, he realizes he wasn't wrong for wanting to share Elysium. Rex just needed to understand Pyra and Mythra's needs on their journey to Elysium.

With hope seemingly lost, Rex contrasts with the chapter's beginning, taking a stand against Malos and Jin in his true form. After being called out by his friends and lectured by Addam, he realizes he wasn't wrong for wanting to share Elysium. Rex just needed to understand Pyra and Mythra's needs on their journey to Elysium.

- Rex: I'm going to Elysium for you. I'm doing all of this for you. We'll do it together! We'll find out together!We'll find your place in this world! Find out where we're headed... And see what our future holds. So believe me! I won't let the world burn a second time! So Pyra, Mythra... Join me!

(As Jin goes for the kill, Rex enters in a vision where Pyra and Mythra in separate bodies standing before a giant Artifice.)

- Pyra: This is our whole being. This is the power we were granted at birth.

- Mythra So, Rex... Are you still sure you want this?

- Rex: Tell me, do you love this world?

- Pyra: ...Yes. Nia, Azurda...and you, Rex... I love this world because you're in it!

- Rex: Well then! (He holds out both hands. Pyra and Mythra look at each other, nod, and step forward to each take one. Rex is back in reality. The green Aegis Core Crystal floats in front of him, making Jin pull back.)

With Rex, Pyra and Myhtra accepting each other, the Core Crystal protecting Rex transforms a new sword. Pyra’s lifeless body transforms into a beautiful woman with a green ponytail, adorned with armor and the Greek letters of her true name, Pneuma, on her chest. She stands renewed, full of life and confidence.

- Rex: Pyra! Mythra!

- Pneuma: Apologies, Rex. Worry not. All is well. I am lost...no longer.

Rex, Pyra, and Mythra became a true Driver and Blade duo in body and soul, reflected in Pneuma giving Rex a matching suit. Unlocking Pneuma’s powers grants Rex the Master Driver ability, letting him use any Blade, except Poppi. This aligns with Rex’s name, Latin for “king,” making him the King of all Blades.

Continuing with the compare and contrast with Rex and Shulk, we later learn that both of their Blades tie into the Trinity Processor: Rex has Pneuma (Pyra and Mythra's true form) and Shulk has Ontos (Alvis, THE MONADO). Both wield red blades with untapped powers, briefly lose them, and require replacements. Pneuma and Monado III are the true final forms of their blades and the result of their character developments.

Shulk's journey is complete after obtaining the True Monado to defeat Zanza and create a godless world, while Rex's arc isn’t finished as he hasn't reached Elysium. Despite achieving what Addam couldn’t, Rex still feels inferior to him, but Mythra reassures him. It’s Pyra, Mythra and Nia’s arc that reached their climax.

- Nia (during the fight against Malos): I should have used this power earlier. (Acknowledging not having the courage to save Vandham or Haze) But I was afraid. Afraid to go back to those days... Lives have been lost...because I was afraid...

- Rex: Nia-

- Nia: But someone (Rex) taught me that I don't have to be afraid. Now I get it! My life has a purpose!

- Rex: Addam told me something. He told me to fight for the things that I wanted to protect. I made my choice. I fight for you and Pyra I mean, I'm still not good enough for you, but...

- Mythra: Don't say that. I've made a choice as well. Not to...live in fear.

When it comes to the symbolism of Rex’s Blades; Pyra and Mythra being Fire and Light can be interpreted as the sun, describing Rex’s role as their light in their darkness. Roc, being Suzaku in Japanese, is often compared to a Phoenix, symbolizing Rex’s hope dying but being revived. And Nia’s water element can represent Rex’s salvaging and being salvation for others.

And finally, Pneuma is a greek word for spirit, which is used in the Bible. From Latin Proverbs 4:18; “Lustorum autem semita quasi lux splendens procedit et crescit usque ad perfectam diem ("The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day"). Not only does it further tie in with Pyra and Mythra’s elements, but it represents Rex’s efforts to help them being worth it in the end.

3D Mirroring Jin, Amalthus and Rex

We now look at both Jin and Amalthus, in their own ways, serve as direct counterparts to Rex. Both represent the different paths Rex could’ve taken had despair consumed him. Their roles in the story shows the contrast.

- Amalthus’s backstory:

Amalthus was a young boy who lost his mother to a bandit attack; not unlike Rex who also lost his parents. Also like the young salvager, Amalthus was also someone who took pride and joy in helping people. But after a man he once helped revealed to be a child murderer, something snapped in him.

Afterwards, Amalthus went on a journey to the World Tree (again, like Rex is now) to find the Architect. The only fruit of his labor is finding two Core Crystals (one Green and one Purple). Amalthus resonated with the darker Core Crystal that contained Malos.

Amalthus awakening Malos would be the start of many tragedies and blood split on Amalthus’s hands. Once Malos becomes too much trouble, Amalthus uses Addam to awaken Mythra in order to counteract him. And we already know how that turns out.

- Jin’s Empty Moment

During the events of the Aegis War, Addam would recruit Lora and Jin in the eventual fight against Malos. While Team Lora does survive the battle, they would still die as a result of the Pratorium attack sent by Amalthus. This would lead Jin down the path to being a Flesh Eater.

From there, while alone in the rain, Jin would encounter Malos who was thought to be dead after the Aegis War. Whether out of pity or some level kindness, Malos offered his hand to Jin. From there, Jin and Malos would swear revenge against the Architect and death to all humans.

- Jin’s Challenge for Rex:

Jin stabbed Rex in the back in chapter 1, but the “rivalry” between the two begins in Chapter 5. When Rex and Co. are fighting to stop a Titan Weapon, Jin arrives to stop them. This is when Mythra reveals that she and Jin were once allies.

- Mythra: There were none stronger...yet none kinder, either. And...no one who hated to fight more than him. Why, Jin? What changed?!

Rex and Jin are two sides of the same coin because they are both the leaders of their respective parties. And both of them are followed because of the kindness he showed them. The difference is that one is motivated by hope, the other is ruled by despair.

This despair is not without reason as we are aware of. With the events of Torna the Golden Country, Jin killing Haze/Fan La Norme makes more sense. Haze would have never wanted to be the blade of someone like Amalthus, so killing her is an act of mercy that Rex does not see.

- Rex (after Fan is killed by Jin): Jin! Why the hell would you do this?! What good does it do you?!

- Jin: Why, you ask...? Then let me ask you this. Blades are granted phenomenal power from our creator on high... yet we are doomed to never remember. Why?! The accumulation of memories is what allows mankind, no, all life to grow. Change, evolve. But... Blades are fleeting. When we return to our cores, our memories are lost. Our growth snatched away forever.

- Mòrag: People aren't so different.

- Jin: Man's life too has an end, yes. However, though each individual life is fleeting... You pass on your memories, allowing you to grow. As a species, as a culture. Why does Indol control all the Core Crystals? By controlling the moment of every Blade's birth, they enslave our entire kind. How is that fair? We have no culture because Indol decrees it. Because that's what your kind do! Why are you the masters, and we the slaves? It is we... who embody the very nature of this world!

This is what Rex needed to learn about Blade System, why Jin hates humanity, and why Pyra and Mythra wanted to die. Rex’s must be steadfast in holding onto his hope in spite of the harsh realities. Vandham and Fan’s deaths, and his defeat in chapter 6, are crucial to his growth.

Jin’s despair stems from wanting to keep his bond with Lora alive. It’s not that he doesn’t value bonds. If Nia’s answer in chapter 8 is any indication, his bond with Lora is why he doesn’t resonate with other Blades.

And if we look at Torna and Jin’s words in chapter 6, he deep down believes Rex could be different from other humans. But in chapter 6, in his eyes, he believed Rex failed. So when Rex comes back to him in chapter 7, having found his answer on being Driver and Blades, Jin is shocked by this.

After awakening Pneuma and being beaten by Rex, everything he thought he knew was being questioned. Rex sees this in Jin and chooses to spare his life. Which leads to Jin’s conversations with Brighid and Poppi in Chapter 8 which slowly melts his heart of ice.

Sparing Jin also leads Rex and Co. to learn the truth about Blades and Titans and Amalthus’ actions. This leads to Rex coming closer to learning about Alrest’s creation. That information will be vital to Rex’s answer to Jin in the next chapter.

What I like about Rex learning of Jin’s backstory is that he doesn’t excuse Jin for his and his allies’ actions. Yes, he is appalled by Amalthus’ actions, but he is right that Jin is no better than Amalthus for trying to destroy the world. And both did it out of despair and hate.

At the same time, however, there are differences between them. The main thing Jin has is a code of honor, ordering Patroka to not attack Rex after reuniting with Torna. But, as stated earlier, he has his own bonds with his own friends.

Jin didn’t give up on bonds nor did he never believed in them. That’s why Jin decides to answer Brighid’s question that she is still the same person. Rex and Jin also foil in their team dynamics: https://www.tumblr.com/dexjarxenoengage/755856718115848192/untitled

Post by @dexjarxenoengage · 10 images

💬 0  🔁 1  ❤️ 16 · Untitled · Three Plus Two: Xenoblade 2 Spoilers for Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Every JRPG is going to have its stories, som

In contrast, Amalthus hates everything and loves nothing. Amalthus and Rex are both Master Drivers of the Aegis. And both sought for the Architect while climbing the World Tree.

The key difference is that Rex’s friends were there for him when he stumbles. Amalthus had no one to keep from falling into nihilism. And most of all, both Aegis Drivers use their powers differently:

In simple terms: Rex is the One For All to Amalthus’ All For One. Like the former, Rex inherited the Aegis power from someone else and that power comes from connections. Amalthus, however, uses the power of Blades to control the world and empower himself.

In chapter 9, we see Zeke talking to Amalthus about “killing.” Zeke says that killing makes you weak because they are something you hate. And not physically, he means in the heart.

This something Amalthus doesn’t deny, because he hates the world. This leads back to present day and Zeke asks Rex’s opinion on the world and his friends. He is satisfied with Rex’s because he knows how someone as hateful as Amalthus would want the world dead.

The answer Rex gives to Zeke also ties into the reason behind Mikhail’s sacrifice. Seeing Rex and the others reminds him of the kindness Lora and Jin gave him and the home he found in the Torna cast. He sacrifices himself to buy Rex time to reach Jin; this leads to his death and Lora’s frozen corpse being destroyed.

IMO, the destruction of Lora’s corpse is what finally allowed her feelings to reach to Jin. Deep down, Jin knew what he was doing was wrong. But it took Lora’s emotions reaching Jin for him to stop following Malos.

Malos still chose to accept Jin’s decision to stay behind. Unhealthy or not, Jin and Malos still care for each other. But with Lora’s influence and his question still burning in him, Rex and Jin have one last battle, which Rex wins.

Through his journey and experiences, Rex was able to find an answer for Jin. Rex embodied the hope Jin once had when it came to his love for Lora. In the end, it was Lora who saved Jin from himself.

Rex was able to keep his ideals strong. Jin lost hope, but slowly regained it as time went on. And Amalthus, who arrives at the World Tree as a literal Blade eating monster, gave up on it entirely.

It saddens because we learn that Amalthus saved Zeke and Pandoria in Ch. 7. He could have used his powers for good. Alas, Amalthus is too far gone and he refuses to acknowledge the damage he caused.

Rex helped Jin see the compassion he once had, but didn’t truly lose. His reaction to Akhos’ death is proof that he cares about those close to him. These key aspects to Jin’s character is why he gives his life for Rex to stop Amalthus and reach out to Malos as he once did for him.

Jin had enough virtues that matched Rex that were enough to save him from his despair. While Amalthus, was too far gone to be redeemed, he wasn’t evil for the sake of it. But Amalthus being a character Rex couldn’t save correlates to why Rex will have to kill Malos in the final chapter.

Rex’s final test from God

After 9 whole chapters and one more fight ahead, Rex and Co. take the last steps to reach Elysium. And when we arrive at the promised land… we find nothing, nothing but sand. Rex and Pyra are in shambles to find out what Elysium truly is.

Can you imagine a dream place who wanted to go turn out to be a wasteland? For Rex, everything he ever knew about Elysium. And to make matters worse; when Rex and Co. go to find the Architect, Rex suddenly loses track of his friends.

When Rex goes to search for them, both Drivers and Blades begin to turn against Rex. Each one of them either blame Rex for that everything has led up to, or personally kicking him for his own weaknesses. And each of the characters mock Rex for something the fandom mocks him for:

Nia berates Rex for his optimism and his fumbled love confession to her. Mòrag belittles Rex’s status as an Aegis Driver. Zeke and Tora and their blades mock Rex for his luck and the praise he gets from others.

These fights were made with Rex’s character flaws in mind. And while Rex doesn’t fight Azurda, it does also represent the people that question if understands Blades. And you can tell how much these criticisms are effecting him.

After all of the mental torture, Rex’s reward is a feast with Pyra and Mythra (in different bodies). Rex tries to adapt, but he can tell something is off; almost as if the girls attitude towards him are reversed.

Fonsett is place of comfort for Rex, and he is with his dearest loved ones. What can possibly go wrong? But… deep down, Rex can’t hide the pain he endured.

- Rex: It's so strange... I don't even know what I'm doing here any more... Everyone's all wrong... They all said I... But now...you two... Did… did I go wrong somewhere...?

I can’t stress enough how great of a moment this is. Especially since chapter 6 with Haze’s funeral already show Pyra and Mythra flipping the script if that means comforting Rex. And finally, it shows that Rex has come to see Pyra and Mythra as their own individuals.

Fortunately, it is revealed that this was a test created by the Architect (who shares both of Shulk’s VAs). His reasons was to see humanity’s present and future through them. Everything we saw, again, was Rex’s fears and anxieties.

Much like Zanza to Shulk, the Architect foils to Rex because Klaus too sought external means to save the world. Alrest and the two titans are the result of his egotism and sociopathy. It now makes sense why the true Elysium is a wasteland.

Klaus created Logos and Pneuma to survey Alrest, but he didn’t have the motivation to change the world. For him, it was fate for someone like Amalthus to do the things he did. Not helped by the fact his other self will be killed by Shulk, and himself thereafter.

Despite his atonement being doomed to fail, Rex, Pyra and Mythra’s journey gave Klaus hope. When Rex obtained the Pneuma sword, he saw a vision of the Architect and the world becoming Alrest. In that moment, the Conduit responded to Rex, Pyra and Mythra’s desires.

When Malos attacks Alrest, Klaus asks what Rex will do after defeating him. Rex brings up the sixth rule of the Salvager’s Code—his goal is to beat Malos and then get him some wine. Rex and others proceeds to head off, but Rex asks Klaus something:

- Rex: Klaus! Have you changed your mind about this world?

- Klaus: Right now... I think...I am glad I met you all.

- Rex: Got it... Then our answers match Thank you for giving us all life.

So… let’s think about this; Shulk slayed a god, but Rex gave hope to a god. There’s no better way to show the difference between both characters. The fact that both Rex and Shulk’s stories play side by side makes it even better.

Rex and Co. find Malos for the battle to decide Alrest’s fate. Malos is the perfect final antagonist for Rex IMO. Malos embodies everything Rex isn’t, and what he had to drag Pyra and Mythra out of.

Of course, Rex would want to find another way out. He asks Malos if he wants to do this simply because he wants to, or is he doing this because Amalthus desired it. Malos isn’t having any of it.

When Malos asked Klaus on whether he his actions were his own, he answers with the path “they” walked together. For me, he was referring mainly to Jin. Amalthus may have influenced him, but Jin gave his actions a directive.

Malos is set on his path, Rex and co. have their beliefs, and Malos has his own. Both of Rex and Malos’ mindsets are demonstrated through the final boss theme: After Despair and Hope. Even if Rex can’t save Malos, he is going make a world every people can smile.

- Malos: Why don't you just let it go?! Who do you think you're doing this for?!

- Rex: I'm doing it...for myself. If it helps put smiles on people's faces... Helps them live their lives together... Then that's my role in this world!

Those words perfectly encapsulates Rex’s character development up to now. It shows the strength of his heart. And more importantly, it’s another great performance from Hiro Shimono, and Al Weaver’s best moment in the game.

Rex and Pneuma succeeds in defeating Malos and saving Alrest. Malos then gives his final words to Rex before fading away. Malos found his meaning and Rex bares no grudges towards him.

Unfortunately, there wasn’t going to be time to celebrate regardless, because the World Tree is on the verge of collapse on Alrest. If this succeeds, everything Rex and Co. have fought for will be in vain. Rex asks Pneuma how to stop it.

She says there is a control system that control Elysium to stop failing. Rex and Co. race to the location Pneuma spoke of, only to find Space Pods. It takes a minute, but he realizes that he was tricked.

Pneuma apologizes for lying and destroys the bridge connecting to her. The real plan is to use Artifice Aion to destroy the Space Orbit, and she is the only one left who can pilot it. Rex begins to lose composure once it’s clear that Pneuma may not make it.

Rex doesn’t want Alrest be destroyed, but knowing that it will come at the cost of his beloved is too much for him. And when Rex fails to reach Pneuma with his anchor, Rex asks Poppi for help. But she reluctantly refuses because of the promise she made to Mythra in chapter 8.

Rex begins to lose it even more and begs for Poppi’s help on bended knee. Once Poppi begins to breakdown, he realizes his mistake. From there, each of the older party members takes turns convincing Rex of what needs to be done.

- Gramps: Sometimes a man must know when to let go. - Do it for her, Rex... Do as she asks...

- Zeke: Chum... How long are you planning on being a baby...? You gotta accept her decision. That's what being an adult means.

- Mòrag (comforting Rex): Rex... I am so thankful that I've met all of you.

I CANNOT express my love for this moment enough. It calls back to chapter 7 where Nia and the others have to snap Rex out of his depression to help him save Pyra and Mythra. Mòrag, Zeke and Azurda held back from saying anything to Rex at the time.

In this case, they are ones to give Rex the words he needed to hear. And Mòrag stands out because if you look closely, there are tears in her eyes. Eventually, they succeed in convincing Rex to trust Pneuma.

This was the final piece of Rex’s character development. The source of Rex’s greed that Addam alluded to was the feeling of saving everyone his own way. By choosing to trust Pneuma to save Alrest, this completes his character arc.

After Pneuma recompletes their Core Crystal, Rex and Co. make their escape. And as Pneuma gives her thanks to Rex, we see him helping a depressed Poppi after falling down. It’s something I appreciate considering what happened earlier.

The party manages to escape the explosion thanks to Azurda’s true form being restored. The party sees nothing left of Alrest. For a moment, it truly felt like everything was for nothing.

That is until Azurda soars across the sky. And on the other side, Lo and behold; a golden sun and sky, the ocean, and more importantly, all of the remaining titans converging into one singular area. Klaus’ last give was a place where all of the titans can call home.

This is the final thing Rex realizes after all of this time. Elysium isn't some grand Utopia that will save every life. The true Elysium is the place that we can all call home.

There's no better message to end Xenoblade 2 on than that. Alrest itself is the true Elysium because Rex didn’t give up on the world. Rex eventually gave up to a god, and that god made the choice to give the Titans a final chance to survive.

- Rex Gramps...So Elysium was...here all along...

- Gramps: You know, Rex... I think you're right.

And of course, I can’t forget about the post credits scene. While Rex looks into the sky alone, the dim Core Crystal begins to glow green once again. And with a mighty resonance, Pyra and Mythra are revived in separate bodies.

As controversial as the ending is, there are words here that describes my opinion on it; "Pyra and Mythra's stories were not about being afraid to die, it's about not being afraid to live." It's thanks to Rex that both Pyra and Mythra can now live their lives free of their guilt and burdens.

Rex dying with Pneuma meant both wouldn’t get to see the world they created. All Rex had to do was trust his friends and in Pyra and Mythra. Rex's faith in others was reawarded, and he proved that he wasn't like Jin and Amalthus.

The game ends with Rex stepping forward towards both Pyra and Mythra.

The future he redeemed

At the end of Xenoblade 3, it is revealed in a picture that Rex got together with Pyra, Mythra AND Nia. With this reveal, a lot of shock and controversy followed suit. Leading people to only like Rex because of FR at best and see him as woman sleeper at worst.

The context of Future Redeemed show that Rex is the person he always was back in 2. And this game shows how his hope and influence bleeds into the future of Aionios. This is expressed through his descendant Matthew Vandham, and his daughters; Glimmer and Mio.

The MC of Future Redeemed is Matthew Vandham, the founder of the house that plays a role in Noah and Mio’s fight against Moebius. While on the quest to find his sister Na’el (of House Doyle), Matthew and A would stop a battle between Nikol (House Ortiz) and Glimmer (House Rhodes).

Because Glimmer is too stubborn to accept her new reality, Matthew and Co. run off to find her. This would lead to all of the party members converging together. As Glimmer would meet the mentor of the Founder of house Reid: Shulk.

Despite Shulk’s kindness, Glimmer ends up running into Moebius and it takes her nearly getting killed to finally get the memo. Most of cast are there to save her. But the Moebius fuses Ferronises to increase his power and Glimmer and Nikol’s lives are endangered; that is until…

- Rex: I like your attitude, kiddo.

- Nikol: Huh?

- Rex: Leave it to Uncle Rex. I'll show 'em a thing or three!

The party proceed to beat the Moebius and Rex learns what happens. This leads to Glimmer being scolded. A callback to Rex being called by Mythra for his recklessness in the past.

Glimmer and Nikol both reflect the journeys Rex and Shulk have been through. And how they treat them is also reflected from their experiences. Rex gives Glimmer the firm hand, while Shulk has the gentle touch dynamic with Nikol.

This is reflected by Rex being called out on few occasions for his mistakes. Vs. Shulk who had his own friends calmly guiding him through. It’s also important to remember that Shulk had more people to call family than Rex did at the beginning of their respective games.

On top of this, Rex and Glimmer’s dynamic here is similar to Addam and Mythra in Torna. Rex’s character development in this game will help him avoid the mistakes Addam made with Mythra. Rex just needs to patient with her.

How Matthew into Rex’s character is through his dynamic with Na’el in this game. Na’el became Alpha’s vessel because the latter preys on her desire for a better world. The two of them serve as a darker take on Rex and Nia’s dynamic.

Later in the game, after Alpha begins to make his move, Nikol and Glimmer asks to join the fight against Alpha. Rex is completely against it because they lack the power. While he isn’t wrong, this is also him being overprotective, even if he doesn’t admit it.

What slightly convinces Rex to hear the duo out is a way for Nikol and Glimmer to draw out their Ouroboros power. After Riku’s advice for a “trigger,” Shulk proposes that he and Rex to fight against Nikol and Glimmer to awaken their power. And if the youngsters win, they are free to join.

The plan works as Nikol and Glimmer awaken to their power and defeats both Shulk and Rex. After this, you can tell that there is a change in Rex’s attitude. It’s thanks to Rex finding in him to trust Glimmer and Glimmer’s own growth as a person that the two are finally able to talk before the final battle.

The two things I love about this conversation is we first get a nod to Rex losing his eye. It’s the moment where Rex speaks fondly about Zeke. Which makes the fact that Linka (Zeke and Pandy’s daughter) is his protege more heartwarming.

Secondly, when Glimmer asks Rex why he helps people. We get a callback to Rex’s final battle against Malos. As long as Rex’s can bring happiness to the world, that’s why he fight.

It’s thanks to his bond with Pyra that his resolve to fight is as strong it is. It’s the reason Rex and Glimmer are allowed to be together. And it’s the reason behind the party’s victory against Alpha.

Matthew’s Ouroboros Knuckles contains the Pneuma Core Crystal within it. With help from N, Logos, and the Sword of the End, Matthew brings out the innermost power of Ouroboros. Matthew, Na’el, Nikol, Glimmer, Shulk and Rex merge into a powerful entity and destroys Alpha in one hit.

With Alpha defeated, Origin needs a new system as he was the central unit for the Origin and the Trinity Processor. Shulk, Rex, and A/Alvis will serve as the new Trinity Processor to prevent Origin's shutdown. Shulk and Rex give Nikol and Glimmer their remaining years to ensure they live beyond the endless now and entrust the future to them.

Thanks to Glimmer and Nikol, their houses serve as the medical field and the technical fields for the city respectively. While it is house Vandham, who continues the fight against Moebius. And despite not being of House Cassini, Rex’s statue serves as a memorial for all of his hard work and respect to his cause, with Masha (via DLC) fighting with Noah and his team to free the world.

And thanks to the heroic spirit and kindness Mio inherited from Rex, M and Mio both would serve as the key to turn the tides against Moebius. Noah and the others would redeem N. And together with Nia and Melia, Ouroboros defeats Z once and for all, allowing the world to be set to rights, and eventually be able to return to a better state once again.

I couldn’t think of a better way to end off Rex’s character. By giving him a send off that pays tribute to Vandham’s contribution to Rex’s character development. Whether this is truly where Rex’s character ends or not, I can’t say for sure. Even still, Rex had made a future possible thanks his kindness and ability to believe in bonds and above all, to believe in the power of hope.

This Rex analysis has been 1 year and more in the making, and I want to thank everyone who has supported me on my Twitter account up to now. This has been a fun ride, and look forward to more Xenoblade character analyses in the future!

[mikyapixie]

ℍ𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕪 𝔹𝕚𝕣𝕥𝕙𝕕𝕒𝕪 ℍ𝕚𝕣𝕠 𝕊𝕙𝕚𝕞𝕠𝕟𝕠!

[puccafangirl]

So I just found out that Gary's Japanese actor is also the Japanese actor for Piers in the Pokeani and even voiced a couple of characters in Fantasy Life I that I have yet to meet! And I think that's really neat cuz the voices he gives them are so different from each other along with the characters themselves being quite different from each other! **

[asaka-lucy-dr-rc]

🎵 Danganronpa Orchestra Concert Transcript and English Translation 📝

This transcript and English translation were created to make the concert easier to follow for people watching the video through the online stream.

The stream requires a paid ticket, but it will remain available until Friday, September 11. The concert itself was absolutely amazing, so if you're interested, I definitely recommend getting a streaming ticket while you still can!: https://kadokawa-contents-event.zaiko.io/ja/e/dangan15th-concert

① Opening Announcement by Kokichi (VA: Hiro Shimono)

At 0:16:57 in the video, the concert begins with the "ding-dong" announcement chime. Below is my English translation of what Kokichi says from 0:17:02 to 0:20:10:

Hiii! Kokichi Oma here!

Thanks for coming to the big gathering of the evil secret organization D.I.C.E. today!!

Ehehe! Man, it's been forever since we had a gathering like this!

Huh? Today's the very first full orchestra concert in the Danganronpa series?

C'mooon! What are you talking about? I'm pretty sure everyone's ticket says this is a big gathering of a secret organization!

...Just kidding!

Y'know, cuz I'm a liar.

Well, the part about me being the supreme leader of an evil secret organization is true, though.

Oh, by the way! Before the Danganronpa ORCHESTRA CONCERT: Melodies of Hope and Despair gets started, there's something I wanna tell eeeeveryone!

First, no taking pictures, recording audio, or filming inside the auditorium!

We worked soooo hard, sweating and slaving away to put this concert together for all of you, so if anybody isn't paying attention to the performance...that would be...so sad...and disappointing... WAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!

Waaahhh! Waaah! Ah! Ah! Aaaaaahhh!

Oh, and make sure you keep an eye on your own stuff, okay? If you lose something, that's got nothing to do with me!

Also, don't use anything that gives off a bright light during the performance. Put your phone and anything else that might make noise on silent, and no phone calls either!

Oh, and no eating, drinking, or chatting with the person next to you!

Follow the rules, play nice with everyone, and let's enjoy the concert as much as we possibly caaan!

And if anybody does anything else I haven't mentioned that disrupts the performance or bothers the people around them...

You'll receive a very special punishment. (in a very low voice)

Sorry, sorry! That was just a little joke!

Nee-heehee... Though maybe I wasn't lying.

And one last thing! In case of an emergency, the emergency exit signs inside the auditorium will be turned off once the performance begins, so you might wanna check where the nearest emergency exit is while you still can.

They'll light up again in an emergency, so if that happens, make sure you follow my underlings' instructions!

Okaaay! Is everybody ready!?

(The audience doesn't respond.)

...Hey! Are you listening!? Heeey!?

Are you ready!? Where's my "Yeees!"? Ready, set! "Yeees!"

(A few people in the audience answer, "Yeees!")

One more time! Ready, set! "Yeees!"

(The audience answers loudly, "YEEES!")

Mmm, good, good.

The concert's gonna start pretty soon, so you might wanna get back to your seat now.

Okay, then! Be good and wait quietly until the show starts!

---

Next: Transcription and English Translation Part 2

[hellishtodorokifamily]

Soba brothers live dubbing at HeroVillainFes

[magicalgirlsandcerulean]

Here's some Haikara highlights: "Your heart is delicate like a kitten", "Topknot~!" and "Master's master...In short, master X master!"

According to Ayaka Murakami, Studio Deen has their own goods corner.

Ep. 8 monster of the week info and ep. 9 synopsis below.

This is the Stomach Monster. The monster's human name is Ii Tameru (JPN name order), voiced by Hiro Shimono.

He's Unzen and Nyuutou's class president, but anything he's unsuitable for causes his stomach to hurt.

He attacks with stomach fluid which only melts clothes (like that in fantasy works).

Actually the strongest monster so far (as of ep. 8), since Murakumo included strong negative feelings when creating him.

✿　.　˚　. 　 ˚　✿.✿　.　˚　. 　 ˚　✿.✿　.　˚　. 　 ˚　✿.

Ep. 9: It's Haikara Even If You're Alone!

眉難高校に衝撃走る！　

A shock runs through Binan High!

入学以来、美男子コンテストを連覇してきた酸ヶ湯が小石川に敗れ王座から陥落したのだ！　

Sukayu, who's won consecutive Handsome Man Contests since entering the school, has been dethroned by Koishikawa!

そればかりか黒玉寮への入寮や、地球防衛部への入部もほのめかしたりして、少しずつ小石川の影響が防衛部内に広がっていく。

Not only that, but he's also moved into the dorm and is hinting at the fact he wants to join the Earth Defence Club. Little by little, Koishikawa's influence spreads within the Defence Club.

百目鬼はそんな小石川の行動を危ぶみ、敵視しているはずの雲仙に警告する――が、時既に遅く、小石川の魔性の魅力は防衛部を虜にしてしまうのだった。

Domeki is anxious about Koishikawa and warns Unzen he should see Koishikawa as an enemy...but it's already too late, and unfortunately Koishikawa's diabolical charm makes the Defence Club its prisoners.

防衛部に最大の危機到来か？

Has the biggest crisis arrived for the Defence Club?