Claude C. Kenni (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
tothelight) wrote2009-10-22 03:22 pm
tothelight) wrote2009-10-22 03:22 pm
Entry tags:
Canon Transcripts
In Progress!
Federation Service No.: 1449-2356-8733-1292G
--- Star Ocean: The Second Story (PSX) ---
*notes: the old localization doesn't really take into account 'dialect' AFAIK, so the dialogue is to be taken more for its meaning than speech mannerisms.
Lacour Front Lines - encountering Dias.
Rena: Did you see, Claude? Dias was there!
Claude: Yeah, he was...
Rena: What's wrong? You weren't happy to see him?
Claude: Well, I'm happy but somehow I feel angry too. It's a complicated feeling...
Rena: That may be so...
Claude: Sorry for saying such odd things.
* skip, Rena mentioning she herself feels a bit angry at Dias for leaving the village years ago, etc. Claude asks why Dias left, and Dias comes in. *
Dias: It's been a long time...well, not really. We just saw each other at the Arms Tournament.
Claude: We seem to meet quite often.
Dias: Do we attract each other? Or perhaps there is someone who is bringing us together... *looking at Rena*
Rena: What? Me?!
Dias: This just happens because I go from battle to battle. Isn't it the same with you?
Claude: I'm...
Dias: Investigating the Sorcery Globe? That's okay too. But isn't the Sorcery Globe always at the vortex of wars?
Claude: ...!
Dias: That being said, I wish you'd stop saying things like "essentially I hate fighting".
* Dias leaves. *
Claude: ...I, too, am an outsider on this planet.
Rena: What?
* Claude doesn't answer. *
Rena: ...Excuse me. There's something I want to discuss with Dias. I've never heard Dias talk like that.
Claude: ? What's this about?
Rena: Claude, I think you're making Dias become aware of something. I can tell.
Claude: ...what do you mean...making him aware?
Rena: I'm Dias's "little sister"! Leave this to me!
* Rena runs after Dias. *
Claude: ...."little sister"?
Celine: My my, you seem relieved, Claude darling.
Claude: Wh-wha-what? ...I'm going outside to get some fresh air.
* outside, Claude runs into Dias on the fortifications.* [From this point a Neutral-Neutral SLT memory starts.]
Dias: Is that you, Claude..?
Dias: ...I'm glad it's you. Look after Rena.
Claude: ? ...What?
* Dias walks away. Claude calls out to him and he stops.*
Claude: Dias!
Claude: Even if you want me to be as strong as you, I won't be able to protect Rena to the end! What do you want me to do!?
Dias: ...You really think I'm strong?
Claude: ?
Dias: What kind of strength do you think I have? It's the power to protect myself. It's not for protecting someone else. It hit me when I saw you...
Claude: ...strength to protect someone else?
Dias: Rena is my very dear "little sister". Please protect her.
* Dias leaves. *
Claude: ...you, Dias, are telling me to protect Rena...?
*[SLT memory end] Claude heads back to another part of the fort and finds Rena, asks her again about Dias's backstory, and she tells it to him, adding that both she and Dias thought he should know it too.*
Claude: ...Rena, it all began for me with the story of the "Warrior of Light", and now here I am...
Claude: I'll protect you. I'm sure I was put here to do that.
Lacour Front Lines - just before the all-out demon horde attack.
Claude: There's too many of them. We can't fight them off by ourselves...
Dias: What else can we do? We'll have to do what we can.
Claude: ...So, we're just pawns to buy time, huh?
Dias: Try to survive.
Claude: That goes for both of us.
* Lacour Hope fires, KABOOM, etc*
Herlie Port - before departing for El.
Dias: So, what do you think of this plan?
Claude: Invading the continent with the Lacour Hope?
Dias: We may have the advantage as far as weaponry. But do you think the enemy would just give up?
Claude: So far we have been able to defeat the monsters we have met. But there may be a more powerful Boss behind all of them. And we wouldn't know how strong he is...
Dias: You're cautious. I agree. Basically. What if all the monsters we've faced up to this point are less than small fry? If you think of it that way, the outcome is clear.
Claude: Then what must we do to beat them?
Dias: It's obvious. Destroy their leader. Make it so they will never try to attack us again.
Claude: ...
Claude: The next time we meet, I hope we can talk about our victories.
* Dias looks aside. *
Dias: I'm not expecting anything...
Claude: ...*:/* Dias! Can't you just say something friendly for once?!
Dias: Heh, I'm glad to see you still have enough energy to get angry like that. You'll do okay. I'll be at the front line.
*Dias leaves.*
Rena: Dias.... he's gone.
Claude: Rena?
Rena: Maybe it's silly... but I got the feeling that I'll never see Dias again...
Claude: Nonsense! Dias is the one person who can take care of himself.
El Coast - after the beatdown by Shin
*after some time wondering if this is how he's going to die, waking up by himself*
That's right, we were defeated, and I got thrown into the ocean alone...
Alone?!
*looking around*
Oh no... was I the only one saved?
...Alone again... Rena...
! I can dimly hear someone's voice...
* finds Leon on another part of the beach, shakes him and he comes to, recognizing Claude.*
Leon:Where are Papa and Mama..and where are your friends?
Claude: ...
Leon: No, it can't be! Is everyone gone? Are we the only ones left?!
Claude: Leon...
Leon: Tell me it's not true! Are we the only ones? Were we the only ones saved?
Claude: Leon, it's still not certain...
Leon: Mama too? Papa too? No, no, not them!
*Leon bawls.*
Claude: Leon, let's go search. Your parents must be somewhere.
Leon: Stop trying to console me! No one's left alive!
Claude: !
Claude: Don't say that!
Leon: But there's no one else here. We're the only ones left, right? Our being saved is meaningless!!
Claude: Leon, calm down...
Leon: I wish I had died!
Claude: !
* Claude yanks him up and punches him in the face. *
Claude: Shut up! Listen, don't you ever say that again!! Have you ever thought about how sad that would make the people who love you? Think about that!!
Leon: But Papa and Mama and Big Brother's friends, they're all gone!
Claude: They're just not here. That doesn't mean that they're dead.
Leon: There are demons all around. We'll be killed.
Claude: I'll slay them.
Leon: But...
Claude: Are you using your head? If you keep cool, you should be able to figure out what to do next, right?
Leon: ... *#o_o#*
Claude: I think you finally understand. Anyway, we were saved. So the others must be saved too. If so, they may have drifted to the same place. Rather than brooding about here, don't you think it's better to go search for the others?
Village - reuniting with the party.
[From this point a Happy-Significant memory starts.]
* Rena is off by herself from the rest and pensive when Claude walks through the gates. *
Rena: Claude!!
Claude: Rena!
Leon: Big brother!
* Rena runs and hugs(?) Claude. I think sprites show she buries her face in his shirt. *
Claude: Rena...
Rena: Claude...
* Rena is sobbing. *
Ashton: Claude, I'm so glad you're alright!
Celine: Claude, are you alright, darling?
Claude: I'm fine.
Claude: ...Is everyone okay?
Precis: We just drifted along, and only you were missing.
Claude: So that's it...
...
Precis: Now, why don't you two put a little space between you?
* both of them backpedal facing away :Xa Rena turns to him.*
Rena: ...I don't want anyone but you. I can't live without you, Claude.
Claude: Rena, I... [SLT memory ends]
Precis: We'd be in big trouble if you weren't here, Claude.
Celine: So Claude, you then met Leon and came here, right?
Leon: ...
Rena: What's wrong, Leon?
Leon: Are Papa and Mama gone?
Rena: Huh?
Leon: Big Brother and the others are here, but are Papa and Mama gone?
Rena: Um...
Leon looks at them then turns away.
Leon: So after all, Papa and Mama are...
Claude stands in front of him.
Claude: You still don't know that for a fact, do you? Are you going to give up so soon?
Leon: ...
* to the Elder, re: the Sorcery Globe *
Claude: We're not the kind of people who can just stand here and do nothing.
Eluria Tower, Unknown Floor - waaaaaaaarp.
Claude: What is this?
Celine: I feel like I'm being watched, darling.
Claude: *turning to Rena* Is your pendant shining?
Rena: Hmm, it's not shining at all, but... (cont'd)
* fuzzy transmission *
Claude: ! (From the communicator?!)
* a countdown starts.*
Claude: Damn, not here!
* Claude runs forward. His friends try to follow *
Claude: Stay away! Everyone will get pulled in!
Rena: What are you saying?!
Claude: I'll... I'll be back soon!
Federation Spaceship Calnus - Claude meets his father again.
Claude: Why did you perform an involuntary beam-up?! What if someone had been with me?!
Ronixis: Ah... of course, it was unwise...
Officer Kurtzman: But Claude, the Commodore did it to rescue you. No reason to get angry, is there?
* Claude sags his shoulders. *
Claude: Of course...But...
Kurtzman: We were worried when you suddenly disappeared like that. But you're back now, thank goodness. Any injuries?
* Claude straightens. *
Claude: No sir. I'm all right.
Kurtzman: Well then you seem to be okay. But have a checkup done in sickbay later on just in case. You never know what kind of virus you might pick up on a planet like that.
Claude: I have something very important to talk about...
Ronixis: Later, later, Claude. First. let's get back to the Bridge.
Claude: No, Dad! I mustn't stay here minute longer. Send me back to Expel right now!!
Ronixis: ? Expel?
Claude: The planet I was on!
* shock from the two, etc *
Ronixis: What are you talking about?! It's an undeveloped planet!
* Claude is pissed. *
Claude: That's not important! My friends are in trouble. I have to return to help them right now!
Kurtzman: Calm down Claude. You know as well as I do that the Federation prohibits contact with undeveloped civilizations. Under any circumstances.
Claude: But dad, you must! Please!!
Ronixis: ...
Ronixis: Ensign Kenni. You are ordered to the Bridge. Immediately!
Claude: But dad--!!
Kurtzman: Come on, Claude, let's go....
* On the way, Kurtzman talks about a high-energy body circulating the system every 7000 years-- could it be the Sorcery Globe? They get to the Bridge. People are shocked to see him again. Before they say anything, an officer yells that 'Planet 4' is accelerating out of its usual orbit and will collide with the energy body in 80 minutes. Ronixis is stunned and goes to the front, leaving Claude to wander on his own. Talking to the other crew, he finds out that the planet's unnatural deviation was caused by a strong energy source, and the resulting Class 9 supernova-level impact is going to turn it to dust. *
Dad! What's happening?!
Claude, calm down! Remember that you are an officer of the Federation. Stay cool and check out the situation!
...
* an officer directs Ronixis's attention to the monitor. Only a matter of time before the two objects collide. *
Claude: No... Why?!
Ronixis: Claude...
Claude: Is this also the work of the Sorcery Globe?
Claude: Dad. I have to return to Expel and save my friends!
Ronixis: Are you mad?! Didn't you hear? Soon Planet 4 will disappear completely from space!
*75 minutes to collision*
Ronixis: No, Claude. We cannot transport you there.
Claude: Well then we have to correct Expel's orbital path...
Ronixis: There is no way to avoid the collision.
* Claude turns away in silence. *
Ronixis: Claude, I...
* He faces Ronixis again. *
Claude: At least allow me to say goodbye to them. I've fought together with them, please...
Claude: Dad, you had battle comrades once. You must understand...!
Ronixis: ...
Ronixis: If it will make you accept what has to happen, then...
Claude: Thank you, father!
* the other crew are aghast and protest. 70 minutes to collision. *
Ronixis: You'll be beamed back five minutes after you land. Be sure to be alone when that happens!
Claude: Yes sir.
Ronixis: ...
Ronixis: You've grown, Claude. Even in this short period of time...
Claude: Have I...?
Ronixis: There's no time! Initiate beam-down!
Claude: Dad... Thank you...
Claude: (I belong with you...)
Eluria Tower, Unknown Floor - back again.
* the party has been waiting for 2 hours in the same place. Celine tells Rena that there's no point in staying, when Claude rematerializes. The party barrages him with questions. *
Claude: Sorry to make you worry.
Rena: Why did you go off by yourself?! You never think about other people's feelings!!
Claude: ...I'm really sorry...
Rena: Don't give me that!!
* silence. Claude remembers why he's there. * [From this point a Significant-Neutral memory starts.]
Claude: ...Let's get away from here.
Rena: What?
Claude: I don't have time to explain! Quickly... we have to leave this floor!!
Ashton: ...I see. Let's go!
* the party moves on except Rena, who waits for Claude to catch up. He turns around and places his communicator on the floor, then walks up to her. *
Claude: Come, let's go.
Rena: Claude, what's that...?
Claude: Oh, my communicator. I have... no need for it now.
Rena: ...
Claude: Rena?
Rena: Welcome home...Claude.
Claude: ...I'm home, Rena.
* they leave to join the rest of his friends. * [SLT memory end]
Eluria Tower, Highest Floor - encountering the Ten Wise Men for the first time.
[ From here a Sad-Significant memory starts. ]* party arrives, sees the TWM in shadow, a large spherical device floating on a pedestal behind them. *
Claude: What...is this?!
Rena: Is that...the Sorcery Globe?
* a flash *
Rena: --Yikes!!
Claude: Rena!
???1: DO NOT MOVE...HALT RIGHT THERE.
???2: Why does that woman have a Quadratic Key? We created the core and crystallized that key. There should be only one key!
Rena: Who are you?!
* sound of some kind of energy buildup *
Claude: Look out!!
* he takes a hit from ???1, collapses *
Claude: Ugh...
Rena: Claude!
???1: REPEAT, DO NOT MOVE. I KNOW YOU UNDERSTAND US.
Rena: Claude, hold on!
* Rena heals him *
???3: Powers of healing... you must be a Nedian!
Claude: --!
Rena: ...Nedi..an?
Claude: What are you saying? Just who are you?!
???4: My my my. How primitive these beings of underdeveloped planets are. They are so quick to raise their voices.
???5: Not quite... it seems to me that the boy is not of Expel. He is an Earthling, I believe.
* Claude is stunned, the rest of the party confused. *
???4: Excuse me... but why would an Earthling be here on the edge of space (the universe)?
???5: That I do not know.
Celine: You people...what are you saying?
Rena: ...Urthling? Space...? ...Claude?
Claude: ....
???5: Hmm... There is no way you could understand. So let me explain it to you. That boy is not from Expel. He is a being from another planet.
Rena: A being... from another planet?
???5: That is correct. The stars that you believe to be merely points of light are actually home to various types of living creatures. Like Earth and Expel. But this is of little importance. Because you are a Nedian... just like us.
Rena: I'm... a Nedian, just like you?
Claude: Rena, don't listen to what they say! ...what is your purpose? Were you the ones who destroyed Eluria?!
???6: There is no need for you to know our purpose.
Claude: What?!
???3: And what's more, you're too late. This planet is already on a collision course with Nede! Even if you knew our purpose, there is nothing that you can do.
* Claude is stunned, the rest of the party confused. Again. *
Rena: Coll...ision?
Claude: Why would you do such a thing?! Are you trying to destroy this planet?!
???7: *evil laughter*
Claude: What's so funny?!
???7: *laughing* Just like a lower organism. I suspected they had such shallow thinking. So what if one planet in this area is destroyed. It is merely a means for us to return to Nede. All of these are merely stepping stones towards us regaining our powers and making the galaxy and universe ours.
Claude: You're going to conquer the galaxy?!
???7: Yes. Of course, worms such as you would not understand.
* the entire tower rumbles. *
???8: The time is near. This planet will soon collide with Nede.
Claude: Why? Why did you pick this planet?!
???8: This planet was merely the planet with a period and orbit closest to that of Nede. ...that is all.
???5: The Quadratic Sphere... called the Sorcery Globe in your world. We used it to alter the planetary orbit in order to make it collide with Nede.
???6: But we had no idea that there would be a Quadratic Key on this planet. Thanks to it, our plans were sped up by 100 years.
Rena: This thing that you've been calling the Quadratic Key, what exactly is it?!
???4: It is made by crystallizing the Heraldry stone that you call the 'Energy Stone'. It's hanging around your neck.
Rena: This is it, this pendant? But why...
???fuckIdon'tcareanymore: It is not surprising that you as a Nedian would have it. Only a Nedian could create a Quadratic Key.
???: Enough of this. After all, you will all die right here.
* Claude runs forward *
Claude: I'll never let you. We'll defeat you and put an end to these foolish doings.
???7: Too bad. Even if you defeat us, you can no longer change the orbit of Expel.
Claude: We will see about that!
???3: What a fool... well, humor him and put up a fight.
???1, aka robot dude: THEY SEEM TO HAVE A DEATH WISH.
???shirtless dude: The only sympathy I can offer is to kill you without making you suffer too much...
???fully armored dude: Leave them to me. I alone will suffice for these fellows.
???armored dude: My name is Berle (Metatron), one of the Ten Wise Men. You should be proud that you were able to face me.
* FIGHT, party gets asses whupped, FUCK YOU METASHIELD. Party stalls till... *
Berle: Whew... you do well. However, I can play no more.
???redheadw/book: If we make it this far, then we can teleport to Nede under our own power. Goodbye, fools...
* they warp away, leaving the party to their fate. The planets collide. Expel goes kaboom. * [SLT memory ends]
----
[Field of Courage, after defeating the Guardian]
Guardian: You have done well. You have shown your courage well. You are now competent to receive the power of courage.
[flaaash]
Operator: Commodore, the energy body in Theta Sector continues to alter its orbital path. The cause remains unknown.
Ronyx: I see. Carry on.
Operator: Yes sir.
Officer: Commodore(Admiral), we all grieve for the loss of your son. But you did everything possible. Please don't blame yourself.
Ronyx: Everything possible? Everything possible wasn't enough. My son is dead.
Officer: We are all sorry, Admiral.
Ronyx: There is no need for you to apologize about anything.
Ronyx: I never knew how brave my son was. That's why I never worried about him... but blind bravery is useless. All it does is hasten death. It is better to be more of a coward, like me.
Officer: How can you say that, Admiral Kenni? You're not a coward! All the actions I've ever seen you take have always been brave.
Ronyx: You're wrong about that. I was always afraid. That's why I was able to take such risks. I was afraid... afraid that people... my wife... and even my son would hate me. That's why I was able to take such risks. I was afraid...
--- Star Ocean: The Second Story (manga) ---
(derived from sketchy translations)
Vol. 6, Navigation 26
Opera: He's always like that! Going off on his own, not caring about my feelings--
Opera: What am I supposed to do then!? Why...why didn't you stop Ern?
Claude: ...I'm sorry.
Opera: It's not your fault... I understand.
Opera: He's not the kind of person who changes what he believes in, even if someone tries to stop him...
Opera: He doesn't care about me at all....
Claude: That's not true!!
Claude: Ernest said he would continue his journey of research, but I'm sure he's worried about you!
Claude: That pendant we were asked to give you... it was sent to show you that he himself was safe, and believing that you will meet again!
----
Claude: It's more reassuring if he (Dias) was here at a time like this, but
Claude: How should I say this...
Claude: I should be accepting his strength, but (thinking about it... angry feelings, and complicated ones)....
----
Dias: But to be hypocritical in saying things like "I naturally don't like to fight"... I want you to stop that.
Dias: I can survive by fighting.
Dias: Claude, do you know (how it is you survive?)
Claude: ....
Claude: [If only I hadn't been sent to this planet from that accident...]
----
Celine: It's just that...
Celine: He is bluffing in front of you and me, but sometimes he seems more lonely than I am....
Celine: Like a child who was suddenly pulled away from his home...
Celine: All the things and people he knew have vanished, leaving only him...
Celine: The only place for him to live: he is desperately looking for it.
Opera: ...He is strong then. I can't stand being alone.
Celine: Strong? No. Claude is weak. He has the most unstable heart of anyone.
Celine/Dias: Though he is weak and lonely, he tries desperately to protect his friends.
Celine/Dias: By protecting someone, he's trying to survive.
Dias: Unlike me, who tries to save himself by fighting, he is trying to survive by protecting others.
Dias: Something cumbersome like a team, I can do without-- but I guess he won't be satisfied unless he helps.
Dias: No matter how hurt he is, Claude will protect you, being who he is...
Dias: Rena... you talk to him. So he won't become like me.
---- Star Ocean: The Second Evolution-----
(sketchy translations)
Chapter 4
[p.03-04]
Rena (to the Elder): If it's Dias, you can have absolute faith in him!
Rena: I know him well, I believe in him.
Claude: ....!
Rena (to Claude): That childhood friend I was talking about before; that was Dias.
Claude: ...I see.
----
[p.04-11]
Dias: I don't need anyone's help. It will be a hindrance.
*skip, Rena asks Claude to fight together with Dias*
Claude: ---He said he wanted to do it alone.
Claude: It's not necessary for me to go with him.
*skip*
Rena: He's like family to me! I need him--
Claude: Is that so? Then if you go with him, that should be enough, shouldn't it!
Rena: ...I see.
Rena: You two... please be careful.
Celine: Claude, I understand your feelings, but... shouldn't you have handled that situation with a bit more maturity?
Claude: ....
Claude: I'm not necessary...
---Thoughts on Pre-SLT Claude---
- I have to confess outright that I haven't reviewed 100% of the canon material that exists on Claude (i.e. official info, 100% game completion, that kind of thing and did I mention I haven't touched the remake yet :(), so I'm aware I'll likely make mistakes on characterization eventually. Sob.
- Since both versions of the SO2 manga were executed with what one might call "artistic license" in mind, and Claude's character varies a bit depending on which version you read, SLT Claude is taken from a mix of the two and the original game, and the remake when I can get it (if ever).
- ...I may have to retcon some of the IC basis/motivations on which I apped him to SLT at some point in future.
Claude's Issues:
- ...are all honestly relatively mild for a protagonist! He was raised in a pretty loving one-child family environment and mostly by his mother, since Ronixis J. Kenni was out spacefaring for extended periods of time. (When he was younger he told his father he hated him for that. Regretted this much later.)
- Sources of negativity hinted at/alluded to in the game include: homesickness, being isolated (in a number of ways), being in his father's shadow, being considered dispensible, being considered useless...
- Speaking of father issues: Though Claude respects and loves his father, trying to live up to the latter's expectations of him, and always being acknowledged as 'that mediocre kid who's only here because of his father", is a major source of frustration to him. Like anyone who grew up with a famous and accomplished parent, he wants to be seen for who he is and the things he's done. "I am my own person." He knows this for himself, but the gossip of others still cuts a part of him, because he's not exactly thick-skinned, and though he puts on a smile and an air of ignorance towards the people to talk behind his back he does remember their words.
- Part of his generally "nice" nature towards others is really more because he would rather avoid confrontation--- on Nede he realized that what he'd actually been doing in reality was running away from his problems.
- What other people think of him matters, but at the same time he wasn't one to keep up crisp and clean appearances just to make them think better of him (since in any event they would think 'that's because his father trained him well' as with most things). His semi-informal way of dressing (loose jacket, bandanna, etc) in contrast to most crew of the Calnus reflects this. He joined the Federation Academy--- despite a lack of taste for the military life-- more because his father expected it of him; although in part he's always wanted to join him in space.
- Throughout SO2, the fact that he's an 'alien' that doesn't belong to Expel (or Nede) comes up again and again, and when he encounters another person like him (Opera) he feels an immediate sense of solidarity with them-- "finally, I'm not the only one" and "maybe she has a way off this planet!" are his first few thoughts. SO2 manga-wise, this occurs when he's already taken up the responsibility of both the Investigation and finding a cure for Ashton's 'problem', but the fact that those are instantly forgotten in the rush of hope of a chance to leave-- yeah. In many ways SO2 Claude is just a boy trying to find his way back to a place he belongs to, though as he goes on he eventually realizes that's where his loved ones are.
- His way of coping with being the only stranger in a world he doesn't belong to is to protect people, especially those he's developed bonds with, physically and emotionally. It's not that he's stoic by nature-- he has a healthy fear of pain and death, and close brushes with the latter terrify him-- but those are secondary to keeping the his friends from feeling those things. Partly because he does care a lot for them, partly because, in a way, it validates his existence to be a source of strength to others. The last thing he wants to be is dead weight. He needs a role or a responsibility that he can fill with his own powers, whether it's being a shoulder to lean on or fast enough to take a hit for someone else.
- When it came to the Warrior of Light legend, at first he denied it completely-- they had the wrong guy, he just wanted to go home-- but when he found what the Sorcery Globe was doing to the planet (see:Alen Tax) and that no one else had managed to find a solution to it, he volunteered to investigate it. Not as someone from a legend, but 'Claude'. (Though arguably he does occasionally refer to himself with that moniker in battle quotes-- and in one Private Action in the game, when a little girl asks him if he is the WoL. Hmm.)
- He's capable of jealousy ifRena someone he really cares for seems to not need him or thinks someone else is more dependable. Being treated as incapable, or a child, also irks him. All this makes for a guy who does some pretty reckless and immature stunts every now and again. See: touching alien machines when people tell him not to.
- That said, it's not to the point of an obsession. Claude has a sound head on his shoulders and understands that people are usually capable of looking after themselves, and more often than not would rather fight alongside someone than tell them to stand back and leave it to him. ...The latter happens more with women, children and the otherwise apparently vulnerable.
Other Notes:
- He's the type to bend or break rules if it comes down to the wire.
- Generally optimistic (naive?) and looks for the best in people, but grounded in realism. Can be brash and acts before he thinks in a pinch situation. Prefers company to being alone. Tries his best to be polite and amiable.
- Can be pretty nosy and eavesdrops on people sometimes-- usually by accident, really.
- Read lots of science fiction novels and played video games as a child.
- Comes from a universe where it's perfectly feasible for "an excellent fighter" to rout monster hordes. O JRPGs.
- His dad had an amazingly detailed memory, among other things.
Federation Service No.: 1449-2356-8733-1292G
--- Star Ocean: The Second Story (PSX) ---
*notes: the old localization doesn't really take into account 'dialect' AFAIK, so the dialogue is to be taken more for its meaning than speech mannerisms.
Lacour Front Lines - encountering Dias.
Rena: Did you see, Claude? Dias was there!
Claude: Yeah, he was...
Rena: What's wrong? You weren't happy to see him?
Claude: Well, I'm happy but somehow I feel angry too. It's a complicated feeling...
Rena: That may be so...
Claude: Sorry for saying such odd things.
* skip, Rena mentioning she herself feels a bit angry at Dias for leaving the village years ago, etc. Claude asks why Dias left, and Dias comes in. *
Dias: It's been a long time...well, not really. We just saw each other at the Arms Tournament.
Claude: We seem to meet quite often.
Dias: Do we attract each other? Or perhaps there is someone who is bringing us together... *looking at Rena*
Rena: What? Me?!
Dias: This just happens because I go from battle to battle. Isn't it the same with you?
Claude: I'm...
Dias: Investigating the Sorcery Globe? That's okay too. But isn't the Sorcery Globe always at the vortex of wars?
Claude: ...!
Dias: That being said, I wish you'd stop saying things like "essentially I hate fighting".
* Dias leaves. *
Claude: ...I, too, am an outsider on this planet.
Rena: What?
* Claude doesn't answer. *
Rena: ...Excuse me. There's something I want to discuss with Dias. I've never heard Dias talk like that.
Claude: ? What's this about?
Rena: Claude, I think you're making Dias become aware of something. I can tell.
Claude: ...what do you mean...making him aware?
Rena: I'm Dias's "little sister"! Leave this to me!
* Rena runs after Dias. *
Claude: ...."little sister"?
Celine: My my, you seem relieved, Claude darling.
Claude: Wh-wha-what? ...I'm going outside to get some fresh air.
* outside, Claude runs into Dias on the fortifications.* [From this point a Neutral-Neutral SLT memory starts.]
Dias: Is that you, Claude..?
Dias: ...I'm glad it's you. Look after Rena.
Claude: ? ...What?
* Dias walks away. Claude calls out to him and he stops.*
Claude: Dias!
Claude: Even if you want me to be as strong as you, I won't be able to protect Rena to the end! What do you want me to do!?
Dias: ...You really think I'm strong?
Claude: ?
Dias: What kind of strength do you think I have? It's the power to protect myself. It's not for protecting someone else. It hit me when I saw you...
Claude: ...strength to protect someone else?
Dias: Rena is my very dear "little sister". Please protect her.
* Dias leaves. *
Claude: ...you, Dias, are telling me to protect Rena...?
*[SLT memory end] Claude heads back to another part of the fort and finds Rena, asks her again about Dias's backstory, and she tells it to him, adding that both she and Dias thought he should know it too.*
Claude: ...Rena, it all began for me with the story of the "Warrior of Light", and now here I am...
Claude: I'll protect you. I'm sure I was put here to do that.
Lacour Front Lines - just before the all-out demon horde attack.
Claude: There's too many of them. We can't fight them off by ourselves...
Dias: What else can we do? We'll have to do what we can.
Claude: ...So, we're just pawns to buy time, huh?
Dias: Try to survive.
Claude: That goes for both of us.
* Lacour Hope fires, KABOOM, etc*
Herlie Port - before departing for El.
Dias: So, what do you think of this plan?
Claude: Invading the continent with the Lacour Hope?
Dias: We may have the advantage as far as weaponry. But do you think the enemy would just give up?
Claude: So far we have been able to defeat the monsters we have met. But there may be a more powerful Boss behind all of them. And we wouldn't know how strong he is...
Dias: You're cautious. I agree. Basically. What if all the monsters we've faced up to this point are less than small fry? If you think of it that way, the outcome is clear.
Claude: Then what must we do to beat them?
Dias: It's obvious. Destroy their leader. Make it so they will never try to attack us again.
Claude: ...
Claude: The next time we meet, I hope we can talk about our victories.
* Dias looks aside. *
Dias: I'm not expecting anything...
Claude: ...*:/* Dias! Can't you just say something friendly for once?!
Dias: Heh, I'm glad to see you still have enough energy to get angry like that. You'll do okay. I'll be at the front line.
*Dias leaves.*
Rena: Dias.... he's gone.
Claude: Rena?
Rena: Maybe it's silly... but I got the feeling that I'll never see Dias again...
Claude: Nonsense! Dias is the one person who can take care of himself.
El Coast - after the beatdown by Shin
*after some time wondering if this is how he's going to die, waking up by himself*
That's right, we were defeated, and I got thrown into the ocean alone...
Alone?!
*looking around*
Oh no... was I the only one saved?
...Alone again... Rena...
! I can dimly hear someone's voice...
* finds Leon on another part of the beach, shakes him and he comes to, recognizing Claude.*
Leon:Where are Papa and Mama..and where are your friends?
Claude: ...
Leon: No, it can't be! Is everyone gone? Are we the only ones left?!
Claude: Leon...
Leon: Tell me it's not true! Are we the only ones? Were we the only ones saved?
Claude: Leon, it's still not certain...
Leon: Mama too? Papa too? No, no, not them!
*Leon bawls.*
Claude: Leon, let's go search. Your parents must be somewhere.
Leon: Stop trying to console me! No one's left alive!
Claude: !
Claude: Don't say that!
Leon: But there's no one else here. We're the only ones left, right? Our being saved is meaningless!!
Claude: Leon, calm down...
Leon: I wish I had died!
Claude: !
* Claude yanks him up and punches him in the face. *
Claude: Shut up! Listen, don't you ever say that again!! Have you ever thought about how sad that would make the people who love you? Think about that!!
Leon: But Papa and Mama and Big Brother's friends, they're all gone!
Claude: They're just not here. That doesn't mean that they're dead.
Leon: There are demons all around. We'll be killed.
Claude: I'll slay them.
Leon: But...
Claude: Are you using your head? If you keep cool, you should be able to figure out what to do next, right?
Leon: ... *#o_o#*
Claude: I think you finally understand. Anyway, we were saved. So the others must be saved too. If so, they may have drifted to the same place. Rather than brooding about here, don't you think it's better to go search for the others?
Village - reuniting with the party.
[From this point a Happy-Significant memory starts.]
* Rena is off by herself from the rest and pensive when Claude walks through the gates. *
Rena: Claude!!
Claude: Rena!
Leon: Big brother!
* Rena runs and hugs(?) Claude. I think sprites show she buries her face in his shirt. *
Claude: Rena...
Rena: Claude...
* Rena is sobbing. *
Ashton: Claude, I'm so glad you're alright!
Celine: Claude, are you alright, darling?
Claude: I'm fine.
Claude: ...Is everyone okay?
Precis: We just drifted along, and only you were missing.
Claude: So that's it...
...
Precis: Now, why don't you two put a little space between you?
* both of them backpedal facing away :Xa Rena turns to him.*
Rena: ...I don't want anyone but you. I can't live without you, Claude.
Claude: Rena, I... [SLT memory ends]
Precis: We'd be in big trouble if you weren't here, Claude.
Celine: So Claude, you then met Leon and came here, right?
Leon: ...
Rena: What's wrong, Leon?
Leon: Are Papa and Mama gone?
Rena: Huh?
Leon: Big Brother and the others are here, but are Papa and Mama gone?
Rena: Um...
Leon looks at them then turns away.
Leon: So after all, Papa and Mama are...
Claude stands in front of him.
Claude: You still don't know that for a fact, do you? Are you going to give up so soon?
Leon: ...
* to the Elder, re: the Sorcery Globe *
Claude: We're not the kind of people who can just stand here and do nothing.
Eluria Tower, Unknown Floor - waaaaaaaarp.
Claude: What is this?
Celine: I feel like I'm being watched, darling.
Claude: *turning to Rena* Is your pendant shining?
Rena: Hmm, it's not shining at all, but... (cont'd)
* fuzzy transmission *
Claude: ! (From the communicator?!)
* a countdown starts.*
Claude: Damn, not here!
* Claude runs forward. His friends try to follow *
Claude: Stay away! Everyone will get pulled in!
Rena: What are you saying?!
Claude: I'll... I'll be back soon!
Federation Spaceship Calnus - Claude meets his father again.
Claude: Why did you perform an involuntary beam-up?! What if someone had been with me?!
Ronixis: Ah... of course, it was unwise...
Officer Kurtzman: But Claude, the Commodore did it to rescue you. No reason to get angry, is there?
* Claude sags his shoulders. *
Claude: Of course...But...
Kurtzman: We were worried when you suddenly disappeared like that. But you're back now, thank goodness. Any injuries?
* Claude straightens. *
Claude: No sir. I'm all right.
Kurtzman: Well then you seem to be okay. But have a checkup done in sickbay later on just in case. You never know what kind of virus you might pick up on a planet like that.
Claude: I have something very important to talk about...
Ronixis: Later, later, Claude. First. let's get back to the Bridge.
Claude: No, Dad! I mustn't stay here minute longer. Send me back to Expel right now!!
Ronixis: ? Expel?
Claude: The planet I was on!
* shock from the two, etc *
Ronixis: What are you talking about?! It's an undeveloped planet!
* Claude is pissed. *
Claude: That's not important! My friends are in trouble. I have to return to help them right now!
Kurtzman: Calm down Claude. You know as well as I do that the Federation prohibits contact with undeveloped civilizations. Under any circumstances.
Claude: But dad, you must! Please!!
Ronixis: ...
Ronixis: Ensign Kenni. You are ordered to the Bridge. Immediately!
Claude: But dad--!!
Kurtzman: Come on, Claude, let's go....
* On the way, Kurtzman talks about a high-energy body circulating the system every 7000 years-- could it be the Sorcery Globe? They get to the Bridge. People are shocked to see him again. Before they say anything, an officer yells that 'Planet 4' is accelerating out of its usual orbit and will collide with the energy body in 80 minutes. Ronixis is stunned and goes to the front, leaving Claude to wander on his own. Talking to the other crew, he finds out that the planet's unnatural deviation was caused by a strong energy source, and the resulting Class 9 supernova-level impact is going to turn it to dust. *
Dad! What's happening?!
Claude, calm down! Remember that you are an officer of the Federation. Stay cool and check out the situation!
...
* an officer directs Ronixis's attention to the monitor. Only a matter of time before the two objects collide. *
Claude: No... Why?!
Ronixis: Claude...
Claude: Is this also the work of the Sorcery Globe?
Claude: Dad. I have to return to Expel and save my friends!
Ronixis: Are you mad?! Didn't you hear? Soon Planet 4 will disappear completely from space!
*75 minutes to collision*
Ronixis: No, Claude. We cannot transport you there.
Claude: Well then we have to correct Expel's orbital path...
Ronixis: There is no way to avoid the collision.
* Claude turns away in silence. *
Ronixis: Claude, I...
* He faces Ronixis again. *
Claude: At least allow me to say goodbye to them. I've fought together with them, please...
Claude: Dad, you had battle comrades once. You must understand...!
Ronixis: ...
Ronixis: If it will make you accept what has to happen, then...
Claude: Thank you, father!
* the other crew are aghast and protest. 70 minutes to collision. *
Ronixis: You'll be beamed back five minutes after you land. Be sure to be alone when that happens!
Claude: Yes sir.
Ronixis: ...
Ronixis: You've grown, Claude. Even in this short period of time...
Claude: Have I...?
Ronixis: There's no time! Initiate beam-down!
Claude: Dad... Thank you...
Claude: (I belong with you...)
Eluria Tower, Unknown Floor - back again.
* the party has been waiting for 2 hours in the same place. Celine tells Rena that there's no point in staying, when Claude rematerializes. The party barrages him with questions. *
Claude: Sorry to make you worry.
Rena: Why did you go off by yourself?! You never think about other people's feelings!!
Claude: ...I'm really sorry...
Rena: Don't give me that!!
* silence. Claude remembers why he's there. * [From this point a Significant-Neutral memory starts.]
Claude: ...Let's get away from here.
Rena: What?
Claude: I don't have time to explain! Quickly... we have to leave this floor!!
Ashton: ...I see. Let's go!
* the party moves on except Rena, who waits for Claude to catch up. He turns around and places his communicator on the floor, then walks up to her. *
Claude: Come, let's go.
Rena: Claude, what's that...?
Claude: Oh, my communicator. I have... no need for it now.
Rena: ...
Claude: Rena?
Rena: Welcome home...Claude.
Claude: ...I'm home, Rena.
* they leave to join the rest of his friends. * [SLT memory end]
Eluria Tower, Highest Floor - encountering the Ten Wise Men for the first time.
[ From here a Sad-Significant memory starts. ]* party arrives, sees the TWM in shadow, a large spherical device floating on a pedestal behind them. *
Claude: What...is this?!
Rena: Is that...the Sorcery Globe?
* a flash *
Rena: --Yikes!!
Claude: Rena!
???1: DO NOT MOVE...HALT RIGHT THERE.
???2: Why does that woman have a Quadratic Key? We created the core and crystallized that key. There should be only one key!
Rena: Who are you?!
* sound of some kind of energy buildup *
Claude: Look out!!
* he takes a hit from ???1, collapses *
Claude: Ugh...
Rena: Claude!
???1: REPEAT, DO NOT MOVE. I KNOW YOU UNDERSTAND US.
Rena: Claude, hold on!
* Rena heals him *
???3: Powers of healing... you must be a Nedian!
Claude: --!
Rena: ...Nedi..an?
Claude: What are you saying? Just who are you?!
???4: My my my. How primitive these beings of underdeveloped planets are. They are so quick to raise their voices.
???5: Not quite... it seems to me that the boy is not of Expel. He is an Earthling, I believe.
* Claude is stunned, the rest of the party confused. *
???4: Excuse me... but why would an Earthling be here on the edge of space (the universe)?
???5: That I do not know.
Celine: You people...what are you saying?
Rena: ...Urthling? Space...? ...Claude?
Claude: ....
???5: Hmm... There is no way you could understand. So let me explain it to you. That boy is not from Expel. He is a being from another planet.
Rena: A being... from another planet?
???5: That is correct. The stars that you believe to be merely points of light are actually home to various types of living creatures. Like Earth and Expel. But this is of little importance. Because you are a Nedian... just like us.
Rena: I'm... a Nedian, just like you?
Claude: Rena, don't listen to what they say! ...what is your purpose? Were you the ones who destroyed Eluria?!
???6: There is no need for you to know our purpose.
Claude: What?!
???3: And what's more, you're too late. This planet is already on a collision course with Nede! Even if you knew our purpose, there is nothing that you can do.
* Claude is stunned, the rest of the party confused. Again. *
Rena: Coll...ision?
Claude: Why would you do such a thing?! Are you trying to destroy this planet?!
???7: *evil laughter*
Claude: What's so funny?!
???7: *laughing* Just like a lower organism. I suspected they had such shallow thinking. So what if one planet in this area is destroyed. It is merely a means for us to return to Nede. All of these are merely stepping stones towards us regaining our powers and making the galaxy and universe ours.
Claude: You're going to conquer the galaxy?!
???7: Yes. Of course, worms such as you would not understand.
* the entire tower rumbles. *
???8: The time is near. This planet will soon collide with Nede.
Claude: Why? Why did you pick this planet?!
???8: This planet was merely the planet with a period and orbit closest to that of Nede. ...that is all.
???5: The Quadratic Sphere... called the Sorcery Globe in your world. We used it to alter the planetary orbit in order to make it collide with Nede.
???6: But we had no idea that there would be a Quadratic Key on this planet. Thanks to it, our plans were sped up by 100 years.
Rena: This thing that you've been calling the Quadratic Key, what exactly is it?!
???4: It is made by crystallizing the Heraldry stone that you call the 'Energy Stone'. It's hanging around your neck.
Rena: This is it, this pendant? But why...
???fuckIdon'tcareanymore: It is not surprising that you as a Nedian would have it. Only a Nedian could create a Quadratic Key.
???: Enough of this. After all, you will all die right here.
* Claude runs forward *
Claude: I'll never let you. We'll defeat you and put an end to these foolish doings.
???7: Too bad. Even if you defeat us, you can no longer change the orbit of Expel.
Claude: We will see about that!
???3: What a fool... well, humor him and put up a fight.
???1, aka robot dude: THEY SEEM TO HAVE A DEATH WISH.
???shirtless dude: The only sympathy I can offer is to kill you without making you suffer too much...
???fully armored dude: Leave them to me. I alone will suffice for these fellows.
???armored dude: My name is Berle (Metatron), one of the Ten Wise Men. You should be proud that you were able to face me.
* FIGHT, party gets asses whupped, FUCK YOU METASHIELD. Party stalls till... *
Berle: Whew... you do well. However, I can play no more.
???redheadw/book: If we make it this far, then we can teleport to Nede under our own power. Goodbye, fools...
* they warp away, leaving the party to their fate. The planets collide. Expel goes kaboom. * [SLT memory ends]
----
[Field of Courage, after defeating the Guardian]
Guardian: You have done well. You have shown your courage well. You are now competent to receive the power of courage.
[flaaash]
Operator: Commodore, the energy body in Theta Sector continues to alter its orbital path. The cause remains unknown.
Ronyx: I see. Carry on.
Operator: Yes sir.
Officer: Commodore(Admiral), we all grieve for the loss of your son. But you did everything possible. Please don't blame yourself.
Ronyx: Everything possible? Everything possible wasn't enough. My son is dead.
Officer: We are all sorry, Admiral.
Ronyx: There is no need for you to apologize about anything.
Ronyx: I never knew how brave my son was. That's why I never worried about him... but blind bravery is useless. All it does is hasten death. It is better to be more of a coward, like me.
Officer: How can you say that, Admiral Kenni? You're not a coward! All the actions I've ever seen you take have always been brave.
Ronyx: You're wrong about that. I was always afraid. That's why I was able to take such risks. I was afraid... afraid that people... my wife... and even my son would hate me. That's why I was able to take such risks. I was afraid...
--- Star Ocean: The Second Story (manga) ---
(derived from sketchy translations)
Vol. 6, Navigation 26
Opera: He's always like that! Going off on his own, not caring about my feelings--
Opera: What am I supposed to do then!? Why...why didn't you stop Ern?
Claude: ...I'm sorry.
Opera: It's not your fault... I understand.
Opera: He's not the kind of person who changes what he believes in, even if someone tries to stop him...
Opera: He doesn't care about me at all....
Claude: That's not true!!
Claude: Ernest said he would continue his journey of research, but I'm sure he's worried about you!
Claude: That pendant we were asked to give you... it was sent to show you that he himself was safe, and believing that you will meet again!
----
Claude: It's more reassuring if he (Dias) was here at a time like this, but
Claude: How should I say this...
Claude: I should be accepting his strength, but (thinking about it... angry feelings, and complicated ones)....
----
Dias: But to be hypocritical in saying things like "I naturally don't like to fight"... I want you to stop that.
Dias: I can survive by fighting.
Dias: Claude, do you know (how it is you survive?)
Claude: ....
Claude: [If only I hadn't been sent to this planet from that accident...]
----
Celine: It's just that...
Celine: He is bluffing in front of you and me, but sometimes he seems more lonely than I am....
Celine: Like a child who was suddenly pulled away from his home...
Celine: All the things and people he knew have vanished, leaving only him...
Celine: The only place for him to live: he is desperately looking for it.
Opera: ...He is strong then. I can't stand being alone.
Celine: Strong? No. Claude is weak. He has the most unstable heart of anyone.
Celine/Dias: Though he is weak and lonely, he tries desperately to protect his friends.
Celine/Dias: By protecting someone, he's trying to survive.
Dias: Unlike me, who tries to save himself by fighting, he is trying to survive by protecting others.
Dias: Something cumbersome like a team, I can do without-- but I guess he won't be satisfied unless he helps.
Dias: No matter how hurt he is, Claude will protect you, being who he is...
Dias: Rena... you talk to him. So he won't become like me.
---- Star Ocean: The Second Evolution-----
(sketchy translations)
Chapter 4
[p.03-04]
Rena (to the Elder): If it's Dias, you can have absolute faith in him!
Rena: I know him well, I believe in him.
Claude: ....!
Rena (to Claude): That childhood friend I was talking about before; that was Dias.
Claude: ...I see.
----
[p.04-11]
Dias: I don't need anyone's help. It will be a hindrance.
*skip, Rena asks Claude to fight together with Dias*
Claude: ---He said he wanted to do it alone.
Claude: It's not necessary for me to go with him.
*skip*
Rena: He's like family to me! I need him--
Claude: Is that so? Then if you go with him, that should be enough, shouldn't it!
Rena: ...I see.
Rena: You two... please be careful.
Celine: Claude, I understand your feelings, but... shouldn't you have handled that situation with a bit more maturity?
Claude: ....
Claude: I'm not necessary...
---Thoughts on Pre-SLT Claude---
- I have to confess outright that I haven't reviewed 100% of the canon material that exists on Claude (i.e. official info, 100% game completion, that kind of thing and did I mention I haven't touched the remake yet :(), so I'm aware I'll likely make mistakes on characterization eventually. Sob.
- Since both versions of the SO2 manga were executed with what one might call "artistic license" in mind, and Claude's character varies a bit depending on which version you read, SLT Claude is taken from a mix of the two and the original game, and the remake when I can get it (if ever).
- ...I may have to retcon some of the IC basis/motivations on which I apped him to SLT at some point in future.
Claude's Issues:
- ...are all honestly relatively mild for a protagonist! He was raised in a pretty loving one-child family environment and mostly by his mother, since Ronixis J. Kenni was out spacefaring for extended periods of time. (When he was younger he told his father he hated him for that. Regretted this much later.)
- Sources of negativity hinted at/alluded to in the game include: homesickness, being isolated (in a number of ways), being in his father's shadow, being considered dispensible, being considered useless...
- Speaking of father issues: Though Claude respects and loves his father, trying to live up to the latter's expectations of him, and always being acknowledged as 'that mediocre kid who's only here because of his father", is a major source of frustration to him. Like anyone who grew up with a famous and accomplished parent, he wants to be seen for who he is and the things he's done. "I am my own person." He knows this for himself, but the gossip of others still cuts a part of him, because he's not exactly thick-skinned, and though he puts on a smile and an air of ignorance towards the people to talk behind his back he does remember their words.
- Part of his generally "nice" nature towards others is really more because he would rather avoid confrontation--- on Nede he realized that what he'd actually been doing in reality was running away from his problems.
- What other people think of him matters, but at the same time he wasn't one to keep up crisp and clean appearances just to make them think better of him (since in any event they would think 'that's because his father trained him well' as with most things). His semi-informal way of dressing (loose jacket, bandanna, etc) in contrast to most crew of the Calnus reflects this. He joined the Federation Academy--- despite a lack of taste for the military life-- more because his father expected it of him; although in part he's always wanted to join him in space.
- Throughout SO2, the fact that he's an 'alien' that doesn't belong to Expel (or Nede) comes up again and again, and when he encounters another person like him (Opera) he feels an immediate sense of solidarity with them-- "finally, I'm not the only one" and "maybe she has a way off this planet!" are his first few thoughts. SO2 manga-wise, this occurs when he's already taken up the responsibility of both the Investigation and finding a cure for Ashton's 'problem', but the fact that those are instantly forgotten in the rush of hope of a chance to leave-- yeah. In many ways SO2 Claude is just a boy trying to find his way back to a place he belongs to, though as he goes on he eventually realizes that's where his loved ones are.
- His way of coping with being the only stranger in a world he doesn't belong to is to protect people, especially those he's developed bonds with, physically and emotionally. It's not that he's stoic by nature-- he has a healthy fear of pain and death, and close brushes with the latter terrify him-- but those are secondary to keeping the his friends from feeling those things. Partly because he does care a lot for them, partly because, in a way, it validates his existence to be a source of strength to others. The last thing he wants to be is dead weight. He needs a role or a responsibility that he can fill with his own powers, whether it's being a shoulder to lean on or fast enough to take a hit for someone else.
- When it came to the Warrior of Light legend, at first he denied it completely-- they had the wrong guy, he just wanted to go home-- but when he found what the Sorcery Globe was doing to the planet (see:Alen Tax) and that no one else had managed to find a solution to it, he volunteered to investigate it. Not as someone from a legend, but 'Claude'. (Though arguably he does occasionally refer to himself with that moniker in battle quotes-- and in one Private Action in the game, when a little girl asks him if he is the WoL. Hmm.)
- He's capable of jealousy if
- That said, it's not to the point of an obsession. Claude has a sound head on his shoulders and understands that people are usually capable of looking after themselves, and more often than not would rather fight alongside someone than tell them to stand back and leave it to him. ...The latter happens more with women, children and the otherwise apparently vulnerable.
Other Notes:
- He's the type to bend or break rules if it comes down to the wire.
- Generally optimistic (naive?) and looks for the best in people, but grounded in realism. Can be brash and acts before he thinks in a pinch situation. Prefers company to being alone. Tries his best to be polite and amiable.
- Can be pretty nosy and eavesdrops on people sometimes-- usually by accident, really.
- Read lots of science fiction novels and played video games as a child.
- Comes from a universe where it's perfectly feasible for "an excellent fighter" to rout monster hordes. O JRPGs.
- His dad had an amazingly detailed memory, among other things.