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Chapter 14: Taking the Town

Opening

letter
Dear Mother,

I've not written in a while but rest assured, I am indeed alive.
I've since realized how foolish and self- destructive my previous actions were.
I wanted to find an easy way out, to bring the objects of my hatred down with me in a blaze of glory.
Why would their downfall be worth sacrificing my own life?
No, I will bide my time and build up my influence.
Even if it takes, ten, twenty, fifty years, I will collect my debts. Against their descendants, if I have to. But enough dreary talk.
It's been a rather exciting few months, and you wouldn't believe what....

Yalunzar

guildmaster
“...to plunder the fruits of our labour! They'll be broken by Yalunzar's walls!"
jeziel
“Forward! We will restore the Crescent to its rightful place under my reign!"
“Glory to the Iron Realm!"
“Glory to Frosthaven!"
(While Jeziel marches on Yalunzar, Sequoia moves towards Johnsbury.)

Camp

lindros
(eyes closed) Herrrrghhhh.
(opens eyes) Hey, why did no one wake me up?
(Three thieves approach Lindros.)
thug 1
Hello!
We mean no harm.
lindros
I didn't ask.
thug 2
That's not how we rehearsed it.
thug 3
Stick to the script.
lindros
What do you lot want?
thug 1
Just your life!
thug 2
Hey, I wasn't read-
thug 3
That's not what-
(One of the thugs attacks Lindros. He retaliates with a critical hit, killing the thug.)
lindros
Agh! That hurt!
thug 2
Roez is dead! What the heck!
thug 3
I'll avenge you, Roez!
(Ellerie and Pomelo rush in, killing one thug and gravely wounding another.)
pomelo
Lindros, you alright? Don't move, Captain! He needs aid!
ellerie
On it. Didn't stab anywhere important. A quick heal will get you on your feet.
lindros
Must have stabbed me with a fruit knife, at least use a better weapon.
Wouldn't have got me if I was awake, so in a way this is your fault for getting me up this early.
ellerie
I'll pay you the injury compensation. But the hell was that about?
lindros
I would like to know as well. Just came up and tried to kill me.
pomelo
Let's get some answers. What do you have against my buddy, you ratfaced scum?
thug
It was just business, I was just hired! Nothing against him myself.
pomelo
Then talk! Who sent you?
thug
I don't know, I was just hired!
ellerie
Okay, fine. We'll skip a few steps.
(Ellerie approaches and stabs the thug painfully.)
thug
Arghhh!
ellerie
Next will be your-
(The thug wriggles.)
thug
I'll talk! I'll talk! I'm from the Eventide!
ellerie
That's trite. The Eventide would never give in so easily. Try again.
(Ellerie stabs the thug again.)
thug
Aaaargghhhh! Please, I have proof!
I was in the basement when you were in the coffee shop with the Matron.
ellerie
... What drink did I order there?
thug
Aah, aaah, you didn't order one.
ellerie
This man might actually be part of the Eventide. Damn it, damn it, damn it!
lindros
Now you've stabbed him an extra time for no reason.
pomelo
What's wrong, Captain? Has Lindros drawn the attention of a deadly foe?
ellerie
It's not that, it's that I paid a massive sum for the same service from them!
If I knew this was the quality of assassins the Eventide had-
lindros
Always properly investigate your purchases.
Who was it you had to put a target on? This Maurice you spoke of last time?
ellerie
Of course, who else is there? And their work in the Capital has always been on point,
I suppose their branch on the Crescent is just terrible, like everything else here.
pomelo
Did you-
ellerie
No, Pomelo, it was not from band funds. You will get your funding.
pomelo
I'm all good then.
So about this fellow, should I lop his head off now?
Shouldn't have stabbed my pal.
thug
Please don't! I'll talk with the Matron, maybe even get you a refund!
ellerie
As much as I want to, not much use to killing him.
Tell the Matron that if there's no progress on Maurice, I want my gold back by any means necessary. No further negotiation.
thug
As you wish! Thank you for your mercy, milady!
(The thug runs.)
pomelo
But why would someone hire men to kill Lindros of all people?
We're both recent arrivals,
don't have any enemies that want you dead specifically.
lindros
We've only fought about ten pirate gangs, several adventurer groups, the Saltsworn, the Sect, take your pick.
ellerie
No, Pomelo has a point. If they were to come after the Seahawks, it should be me, Oriana or Tower. You're not an important target.
lindros
Gee, thanks.
But that is true.
ellerie
We'll have to worry about this later. The battle is waiting on us.
pomelo
Maybe you should sit this one out. That stab looked painful.
lindros
Thanks Pom, but I'm not that weak. The Captain healed me just fine.
A short rest is enough.
(They leave.)

If Lindros spoke to Thyme in Chapter 11 and Thyme is alive

(Thyme slinks out of the shadows along with the Rat Ring.)
thyme
Damn, those useless idiots made us miss our chance to break his kneecaps.
We'll get him next time.

Enan

keilu
Master, what's going on? What enemy has breached our walls?
maurice
Bah, got jumped by the three worst assassins this side of the Capital.
Cleaned them in seconds.
Since you're back so soon, I see the assault on Irinde was not successful.
keilu
Whatever could have gone wrong did.
Those Albatross Pirates weren't even a match for the townsfolk, even that fraud, the Cold Caller! Those damned Seahawks returned just in time.
I must admit, I erred. I presumed an easy victory without their Chief, and I rushed the assault without proper preparation. I'm truly sorry, Master.
maurice
Being willing to admit any fault of your own puts you ahead of my colleagues.
No matter, if Ellerie interfered, your odds were slim regardless.
Don't let this defeat break your spirit.
keilu
You are lenient. But my poor leadership lost quite a few good men regardless.
maurice
We only sent a token force. It was the Pirate Sages that bore the brunt of it.
I do not doubt that Ellerie will soon lead a force here in retaliation.
keilu
Those Seahawks... I understand it was no fluke that allowed them to kill Mother.
They don't fight like mere adventurers. Can what we have stop their advance?
maurice
It will be our home turf, and we have time to prepare. But first, there's been talk of conspiracy.
Those Faithful are spreading rumors that you are not worthy of Caliane's legacy, that Enan ought to throw off the reins of the Saltsworn.
The remnants of the Carrion Crows are also among their number, biding their time.
We'll have to clean up the house before we receive any visitors.
keilu
Maybe they're right. If Mother was still alive, none in Enan would doubt her.
The Saltsworn only entertain my orders partially because of my blood, and partially because they fear you.
maurice
You may not be much right now, but you've got the will to learn and the desire to achieve.
I could have taken much worse apprentices.
Now get the men ready; we'll show your doubters their folly.
keilu
Yes, Master!
c. curio
Priestess, what now? The son and his one -eyed master are coming straight for us.
wheatley
If you hadn't reared your ugly head, my plans would have continued unhindered.
It would have been more convenient to everyone if Maurice had just killed you.
c. curio
Spare your insults! Your followers surely cannot stand up to the blades and arrows of the Saltsworn. We must unite.
wheatley
You may need me, adventurer. But I have no use of you.
Our holy wards can shield us until the Seahawks arrive,
You're on your own.
(The Faithful retreat into a church and shield it with a magical barrier.)
c. curio
Why did I put my faith in one of the Faithful? I only have myself to blame.
An airship! Is that the Seahawks?
...
But so few men! They'll be no match for the foreign sorcerer and the Saltsworn.
I did hear their Captain was simply some noble girl from the Mainland...
No match for a seasoned adventurer such as myself. If I were to take her head...
Yes, my brothers in the Saltsworn would surely accept my return.
(smiles) Yes, this is a good plan. Carrion Crows, listen here, I have a good plan!
dune
The Saltsworn are moving in on our allies.
guard
We had allies?
dune
Allies is perhaps a strong word, given the Carrion Crows are former Saltsworn, and I wouldn't trust a Faithful with.... anything, really.
ellerie
We do now. Having them alive and on our side will help keep Enan pacified, even if they may be undesirable.
nerysa
I could pick better collaborators, but if it brings less conflict, I have no complaints.
dune
It appears some of our “allies” are heading towards us. Weapons first.
ellerie
What? What are they doing?
guard
Trying to kill us, probably.
ellerie
Why? Is this a trap? No, then why are they so obvious in their intent?
Whatever. Guard Captain, take Irinde's forces and Spice's ships, and delay their fleet. The Seahawks will smash through their front on land.
guard
On it! We will crush them like the pitiful insects they are!
dune
The Guard Captain has proven herself, but should I not lead Irinde's forces?
I am of the Ironsmith line, after all.
ellerie
(Because Ironsmith is such a noble name and lineage.)
We need your talents more where the fighting will be thick.
Besides, wouldn't a push into the enemy command be more glorious?
dune
I suppose so.
ellerie
Then we shall charge. Kill anyone that gets in our way!
Let's bring these pathetic Saltsworn down for good!
guard
Yeah! Let's kill people!
(Dune, Ellerie, and the guard captain march out.)
nerysa
I do wonder if this is how Oren would have resolved the conflict....
Of course it would be, he thinks with his axe not his head.
keilu
(closes eyes) Rrnggh.
maurice
Keilu, tell me honestly. Is it getting worse?
keilu
(opens eyes) The injury I took last battle *cough* has not helped, but I'll be alright.
maurice
It would be prudent for us to immediately return to the Capital.
I know nothing about your peculiar illness, but the grand libraries will.
keilu
Huh? We can't just leave!
Didn't you say you had a mission to complete?
maurice
I'm sure his Royal Highness can forgive some minor complications.
keilu
But the Saltsworn, Enan, I am responsible. I can't abandon them.
maurice
You've got far too much potential to be wasted on this pitiful dirt town.
Push your sights higher; it's not worth risking your wellbeing just for them.
keilu
But to take me to the Capital? You're far too kind.
maurice
(smiles) It's my duty to look out for my first apprentice.
keilu
(smiles) Mother must have been honoured to have a good friend such as yourself.
I'm surprised she never saw fit to mention you to me.
maurice
It must have not come up as she was a busy woman.
Get some rest. I will get us a ship immediately.
keilu
(frowns) But even so... This is my home, I don't want to abandon it to the wrath of Irinde.
(A soldier approaches.)
saltsworn
Commander! Master Maurice! Irinde and the Seahawks have arrived!
Their ships have our harbour surrounded and an airship is approaching Enan rapidly!
keilu
How are they here already?
They must have dropped everything to immediately come after us!
maurice
Damn it all, I was a fool to think we would get any time to prepare.
Have those worshippers been stamped out, at least?
saltsworn
Before we could get to them, they put up some kind of magic barrier.
maurice
We can't save our resources.
Have those explosives we stocked loaded into wagons!
We'll see how much their magic shield holds against this.
You, order the men in the barracks to ready themselves!
saltsworn
Yes, Sir! What weapons shall we prepare?
maurice
I will have to assess the enemy first. Just be ready to move on my order.
saltsworn
At your command.
(The soldier leaves.)
keilu
I will lead the defence from the front!
maurice
Keilu, your illness-
keilu
I'm only a figurehead, but I'm still the Commander of the Saltsworn!
What kinda leader will I be if I'm to cower in the back? I'm going!
maurice
Have it your way. I will remind you, if the situation looks bad, just run.
Take honour and stick it up a rat's ass. Your life come first, got it?
keilu
No need to worry about me, Master.
Our magic defenses will keep them at bay long enough for me to make my escape.
(A gold knight enters the field.)
jake
Captain, I have a friend who'd like to see you.
This is Aigo of Enan.
aigo
There is no need to introduce me, not too old to forget my own name.
ellerie
Ah, you were the... The librarian.
aigo
Former librarian. The Saltsworn found out about my correspondence with Chief Oren, and rather understandably, tried to kill me.
Rather less understandably, they also burned down half my library while doing so.
ellerie
Of course those louts wouldn't understand the value of a scholar's work.
jake
You've lived in Enan for over a decade, taught many how to read and write.
Hard to believe they'd be so quick to attempt murder on Enan's own, for just a passing friendship with Oren.
aigo
No need to feel sorry for me.
It's a time of war, can't spare sympathy for potential traitors.
It's been many years since I was in my prime, but I'd volunteer my aid.
Bit of an axe to grind with the Saltsworn, and of course, not just figuratively.
ellerie
Being long-lived seems like a good indication of ability on the Crescent.
If you will give us aid, we'll make them pay the price for wronging you.
aigo
Very well! Then I shall take to the field again for the first time in twenty years.
I've rather missed this feeling.
jake
The Saltsworn must be stopped, but Enan was our home.
Sir, are you sure you want to involve yourself?
aigo
I'd have overlooked just trying to kill me. But they torched my books!
The Saltsworn will pay the price the old-fashioned adventurer's way.
jake
It's easy to forget what you were before retirement.
I'll be sitting this one out, Chief. You must understand.
ellerie
You've done well to support Irinde's logistics, I won't ask any more of you.
jake
Keep safe out there, Sir. You're not young anymore.
aigo
Of course I will be staying safe. I'm practically invincible.
(The Seahawk II enters the field.)
pomelo
We're finally going to see the results of all that effort.
The Seahawk II will support us this battle from the skies.
ellerie
It better support us well, we spent too much gold on this.
pomelo
I'm certain you're eager to squeeze out every drop of gold value, but do not forget, this is our ride.
If it goes down we're not going home.
ellerie
Yeah of course. It's not like I will order it into an enemy siege weapon.

Every 2 Turns (if Maurice is present)

If 3+ magic users are deployed

maurice
Looks like they brought quite the number of magic users. Deploy the mageslayers!

If 3+ staff users are deployed

maurice
So they have quite the number of staff users, huh? I'll just counter with my own.

If 2+ fliers are deployed

maurice
They brought quite a few fliers, what a nuisance. Bring the anti-air weaponry!

If 3+ cavalry are deployed

maurice
They have enough cavalry to make a fast advance. Bring on the anti-cavalry weapons.

If 3+ axe users are deployed

maurice
They have a lot of axe users. That should be easy to exploit with swords and reavers.

If 3+ sword users are deployed

maurice
A lot of sword users, all inferior to me. Let's bring out the lances and reavers.

If 3+ lance users are deployed

maurice
Of course Ellerie brings a bunch of lance users, the narcissist. Axes and reavers it is.

If 4+ low-resistance units are deployed

maurice
Looks like quite a few of their army have very little resistance. Call for the mages!

If Mince is deployed

maurice
If it wasn't for Mince, I'd have Ellerie's head long ago. Get the armour piercing weapons!

If no archers are deployed

maurice
They don't have any archers. Foolish move. Bring in the air units.

If 2 or fewer magic users are deployed

maurice
They appear to have deficiency of magic units. This calls for the heavy infantry.

If all other branches have been exhausted

maurice
Okay, think, what did the books say? Don't see any other weaknesses...
Damn, I'm a spymaster, not a tactician. I'll just go with the standard infantry.

Turn 2

(Maurice deploys Boom Wagons.)
ellerie
Again with the old tricks. Maurice really loves his explosive recipes.
Stop those wagons before they get to their destination!

Turn 3

(Tomb Terrors approach from the Seahawks' rear. Blaine is among them, now an ashen guard.)
blaine
Not even death will quench my thirst for revenge.
Quake in fear, Seahawks! You will soon know justice!

Turn 6 (if Keilu is alive) or if Keilu is defeated

If Turn 6

keilu
My head is splitting in two. What's coming over me?
No, no, no! Why now? Master, Mother! Help me!
I'm not ready, I'm not-
(Keilu transforms into a berserk draco zombie.)
ellerie
That was the Commander's son, wasn't it? This is another one of the “Blessed”?
tower
This must be the same fate as what befell Valen. I have no desire to see this again.
oriana
So this is the fate Krynia avoided? To have one's body forcibly taken...
ellerie
I assumed it was just Maurice's meddling, but the Commander wouldn't have gone to such lengths without another incentive.
oriana
There was no one I wished death on more than their Commander, but for her to have the same goal, I can't say I wouldn't have done the same for Krynia in her place.
ellerie
There is a more pressing matter than sympathizing with a dead woman.
You spoke of Captain Valen's “blessing” decimating entire adventuring bands.
Can we take this one on?
tower
Valen was a mighty warrior in the peak of his prime; this one is a young boy.
oriana
He looks like he's in a lot of pain and still struggling. Is he still conscious?
ellerie
Then let's do everyone a favour and put him to rest.

After Wood Lord is killed

(A woman emerges from the dragon's stomach.)
foxberry
It was trying to chew me up and just couldn't quite do it!
A few more minutes and I would be dragon feed,
thanks for the save!

Conversations

Blaine

Death

blaine
I'm sorry... Friends... I let you all down...

Death by Ellerie

ellerie
Stay dead, please. You're wasting my time.
blaine
Not even... Death... Can...
ellerie
I'm aware.
Good luck coming back without a body.

Keilu

Combat w/ Krynia (if human)

krynia
So you're just like me, huh?
I guess the difference is that my mother is a better person.
keilu
Why do you besmirch my mother's good name?
krynia
All of this bloodshed is because of our blood.
And you don't even know.
keilu
What- What are you saying? What do you know about me?
krynia
That's not my problem. I guess you'll die a fool.

Combat w/ Krynia (if dragon)

krynia
Why did I successfully keep my mind, when you did not?
Did Mother's desperate solution in the Workshop actually work?
Not likely. Perhaps I am simply made of superior stuff.

Defeat (if human)

keilu
I can't die yet! I can't! I won't!

Death (if dragon)

Keilu
Not now, why? I'm not ready, I'm not-

If Maurice is still on the field

maurice
Keilu...
Shouldn't have been like this.

C. Curio

Combat

c. curio
I am C. Curio! And you are just a nameless victim!

Combat w/ Aigo

c. curio
You can ride, librarian?
aigo
Camdeus Curio. Quick to act. Slow to consider consequences.
Young man, was burning my library really necessary?
c. curio
Don't blame me, old bat!
You shouldn't have been caught writing to Irinde.
It's just how the winds turn.
aigo
I understand that sentiment in Enan is rather against Irinde.
But why take out your anger on my poor, innocent library?
c. curio
I did you a favour. I freed you from hoarding that pile of junk.
aigo
I have remembered the faces of everyone there that night.
Your brother. Your uncle. Your cousin. Your three sad friends.
You never learned, Camdeus. And now, you never will.
c. curio
You serious? Oh, you are. That's not good.

Combat w/ Acielle

acielle
See Curio? See my magical powers? Now who's the fraud?
c. curio
Yeah, so what? You're still a lunatic.
acielle
The evidence of my connection to the Goddess is right here!
My future was never in doubt!
c. curio
You fit right in. Only lunatics worship gods these days.
acielle
You are lost and are in need of freshly dispensed justice.

Combat w/ Francisca

francisca
Hey, Boss. I'm so happy to be able to see you again.
Too much of a liability, am I? Useless to the crew, am I?
c. curio
That's just the adventuring business for you, buddy.
For the good of the crew, the fat needs to be cut.
francisca
You threw me into a river and tried to take my wyvern.
c. curio
Yeah. I wish I strangled you, then killed your stupid wyvern.
Is that what you want to hear from me, Francisca?
francisca
I was just going to kill you, but only in a business sense.
Now I'm going to kill you for absolutely free of charge.

Death

c. curio
I think... My plan wasn't very good...

Death by Francisca

francisca
Boss, you're too injured.
I think you're no longer useful to the group,.
I think you need to be put down, for the greater good.
c. curio
Fran, I'm sorry.
I was being pressured by everyone else.
I needed to make the hard choices.
francisca
I'm also making a hard choice. Whether to kill you myself,
Or to feed you to my lovely companion as a quick snack.
c. curio
No! Give me a quick death, at least! Do you have no honour?
francisca
I think I've decided on the latter. Here's lunch, dear.

(C. Curio dies.)

(grins) Revenge feels almost as good as being paid.

(Francisca gains 2 Skill and 2 Speed.)

Maurice

Combat

maurice
Try me, fool.

Combat w/ Ellerie

ellerie
I fantasized a lot about what I'd say when I killed you.
Now that the time has come, I am lost for words.
maurice
You always spoke too much. It will be your downfall.
ellerie
And if you had spoken more, you'd have saved your wife.
But you let her die, silent.
maurice
I know your tricks, you can't throw me off-balance.
ellerie
Grown a bit wiser? I will get what I want,
by turning you into a bloody mess.

Combat w/ Mince

maurice
The pawn approaches.
mince
One-eye guy!
You're looking like a fine slice of pork belly.
maurice
What?
mince
Cause you're about to be cooked.
maurice
Words cannot describe the contempt I feel for you.
It is empty-skulled drones of your ilk that-
mince
Didn't you just say words cannot describe?
Say less and get cooked!

Combat w/ Dune

maurice
My defeat today is inevitable.
However, dutiful Captain Dune, do you know what threat you have allowed into your Irinde?
dune
The red-haired stranger could be how Irinde's fortunes turn.
maurice
There is none that knows of her wickedness more than me.
Heed my warning. Irinde will be but fuel for her cruel desires.
dune
I would take your opinion into account, if not for one thing.
Why in Elis's good name would I believe a thing you say?
maurice
I merely do not wish-
dune
Good for you. Now die a gruesome death already.

Combat w/ Thyme

thyme
So you're this sneaky little schemer behind the invasion.
Us Rat Gang don't take kindly to messing with our domain.
maurice
How could I predict that the extent of the Coven's idiocy?
That they'd try to swallow Irinde and your town at once?
If they did not split their army, Irinde would already be ours!
thyme
Irinde butched the Coven and your men like squealing pigs.
It would've made no difference.
It also makes no difference to the fact I want you toasted.
maurice
This battle may be lost, but I will not be defeated by some two-bit thug.
thyme
Do you know magic?
maurice
What self-respecting magistrate doesn't?
thyme
Then it's a foregone conclusion.

Combat w/ Keilu

maurice
This isn't right, shouldn't be happening. Keilu! Answer me!
keilu
Too... Late... Go... Run...
maurice
No! Keilu, hold on!

Defeat

maurice
Arrghh! Am I really going to die here? So far from home?

Defeat by Keilu

maurice
Ugh... Keilu?
keilu
Can't... Hold... Masterrrr... Run... Run...
maurice
You're a good apprentice, Keilu. The absolute best.

Locations

Southern House

If you donated in Chapter 7x

elder
I cannot be seen with enemies of Enan.
Although you did donate gold to us, here's some compensation for your generosity.
(The visitor receives a Vulnerary.)
visitor
Maybe just something a little more?
elder
Bah! You think charity is a transaction? Fine, I'll make you a drink, or something.
(The visitor receives a Coffee.)

If not

elder
Get out, invaders! I'll beat you with this broom if I have to.
visitor
I suspect we may not be receiving help from this particular village.

Southeast Village

options
Donate Rice

Donate Stew

Donate Roast

Donate Chef's Brew

Donate Monster Meat (Why?)

After donating three items:

man
That'll be sufficient food for the crisis. Give Jake our blessing.
You can't be as bad as they say if you're willing to do all this.

Keilu's Mansion

visitor
This is where their boss was, got to be some good loot here right?
They have... lots of alcohol. Good enough loot, I suppose.
(The visitor receives Quality Liquor.)

Ending

ellerie
The Saltsworn have been conquered! Victory goes to Irinde and the Seahawks!
(Ellerie convenes with Oriana.)
ellerie
Maurice, MAURICE! Where is his body? Did we not kill him?
oriana
I was certain his body was right here.

If Foxberry was recruited and survived

foxberry
You are talking about the one-eyed man, right? I saw him slip away in the carnage.
ellerie
Gah! Why in Elis's name did no one stab him twice, no, ten times, to make sure?
I suppose it was in the heat of battle, but damn it, thought I had him for sure.
Who are you, anyways? You are a new face among our entourage.
foxberry
Fortuna Bertilde Ryeleigh XVII, world famous adventurer, at your service!
But I mostly go by Foxberry.
Your crew pulled me out of a dragon's mouth, for which I am very grateful.
ellerie
Forgive me for not being familiar with the name. (World famous?)
oriana
(Don't look at me, I've not heard of her.)
foxberry
You may know me better from my works, How to Survive on the Crescent With Nothing but Three Metres of Rope, or How to Dungeon Dive With-
oriana
Oh, that series! My daughter has read a few of your books.
foxberry
Ah, I see you have heard of me!
oriana
(Is this a bad time to say that her books are irredeemable trash?)
I would like to mention that Ms Foxberry's books tend to be... less informative guidebooks and more creative reinterpretations.
foxberry
Well yes, if it was just simply to-knows they wouldn't sell.
oriana
I recall in one of your works, you slew fifteen dragons?
foxberry
I may have omitted certain factors in the retelling, but I assure you, there were fifteen dead dragons.
ellerie
If you were such an expert, how did you get yourself eaten by a dragon on the edge of town?
foxberry
How was I to expect a whole freakin' dragon would be two steps from town?
It's a public safety hazard that the Saltsworn should have taken care of!
I'm glad they're gone, useless at their jobs anyways. But I digress,
I would like to offer to you my services as an adventurer.
ellerie
If you can survive being eaten by a dragon, then you surely have some talent.
Go with Oriana, the quartermaster. She'll get things all sorted for you.
oriana
Of course, just come right this way.
foxberry
You won't regret taking me on. I'll be an invaluable asset.
(Oriana and Foxberry leave.)

If not

ellerie
Well, he isn't here. Slippery bastard must have bolted.
You should take a rest, Oriana. You've done more than enough.
oriana
Thank you, Captain. I will see you at dinner.
(Oriana leaves.)

ellerie
You get to live this time, Maurice. But who else can you get to die for you?
(Johnny Spices and the guard captain approach.)
guard
Captain Ellerie! We've returned victorious!
ellerie
So soon? I was about to reinforce your position, but it seems that there was nothing to fear.
johnny spices
It went about as perfect as possible.
They weren't ready for us and the first volley was enough to break their morale.
ellerie
How much of their forces remain? The survivors may make a desperate ploy.
guard
No need to worry about that. We made sure there were absolutely no survivors.
ellerie
Very impressive.
johnny spices
Do you have time for a critical matter?
We've received news that the Cormorants have already invaded Lake Lotugyr.
ellerie
Our people may be celebrating our victory over a major foe, but threats remain numerous.
johnny spices
You did promise that you'd help me out if I supported your bid, right?
ellerie
I certainly did. If we were to act, we should act quickly, capitalize on our high morale.
(Dune approaches.)
dune
Then I believe we have quite a few things to discuss.
guard
Don't even need to ask me, I'll be there.
ellerie
Let's retire to a comfortable room for discussion. This will take time.

Camp

If the Wood Lord was killed

mince
Alright, everyone! You're about to be served the meal of a lifetime!
Get ready for Mince's fantastic tome-grilled dragon steak! Enjoy!

If Marlow & Yvette are alive

marlow
I was not expecting a dragon for dinner. Luxury dining ain't got anything on this.
yvette
Quite chewy, but a unique flavour. This would sell well at the Capital.
marlow
We could just marinate beef and sell it as dragon meat. They wouldn't know.
yvette
You speak as if you'd ever travel anywhere out of your own free will, you lazy slob.
marlow
You're right, of course, but I can daydream.

If Basil & Thyme are alive

thyme
Look at you, Brother! Enjoying your food rather than being an absolute twit.
basil
Ergh, and I was hoping I wouldn't see you again.
This isn't average meat.
thyme
Dunno, tastes like chicken to me. Maybe your taste buds are just all ruined.
basil
Anything tastes like chicken to you. Just leave me be.

If Murky & Acielle are alive

acielle
Now this is a meal fit for a hero. Can't wait!
murky
We've witnessed humans that are able to turn into dragons.
How do we know these do not share the same origins?
Would that still be cannibalism?
acielle
I just wanted to eat. Why did you have to go and say that?
krynia
... I think I'll pass on this.

If not

mince
Hoo, I'm late! Have to move, move move!

oriana
When I was younger, the Saltsworn was a symbol of protection.
I heard about them reclaiming the land, bringing back lost technology, and holding back the Green Tide.
Couldn't have imagined they'd go down like this and I'd be there to do it.
tower
Don't be too sorry for them.
Some other adventurers will replace them, gold is extorted, monsters die, people die. Cycle goes on.
oriana
For most. But they were emblematic of the adventurer golden age.
But now they're gone, just like that.
Almost feels like they deserved a more noble exit from history.
tower
I've lived a long time. I know adventuring bands whose names reached every shore, yet now no one will recognise their names.
Trust me when I say the Saltsworn won't even be a footnote in another few decades.
oriana
You always put things in the most optimistic way. What's that commotion?
offscreen 1
Come to the central square! An announcement is being made!
offscreen 2
Get moving!
oriana
About time we discuss the next stage of our... peaceful occupation, I suppose.
tower
I have a feeling our little Captain is up to a small amount of mischief.
oriana
Perhaps. Let us see for ourselves.
(They join a crowd gathering around a stage where Ellerie is making a speech.)
ellerie
... for we are in times of turbulent tides!
In the east, the dogs of the false Prince are nothing more than bandits with a title.
In the center, the Guild digs their greedy fingers into the Crescent's lifeblood.
Pirate scum, roving adventurer bands, we are surrounded by the avaricious, the corrupt, the wicked, the merciless!
Why must we be always forced to sell our produce at significant discount, forced to rely on an asymmetrical exchange for bare necessities!
No! We have the means to take up arms, to take for ourselves what we deserve!
This should be our era! Our moment!
(Pomelo and Lindros stand behind the stage.)
lindros
By Elis, this is certainly a banal speech.
pomelo
The townsfolk seem to be eating it up. Something must be working.
lindros
Maybe they're just hearing what they want to hear.
(Mince approaches with a horse.)
mince
Phew. Had to sprint all the way here after cooking.
lindros
What's with the horse? I assume it is not tomorrow's dinner.
mince
Apparently it is tradition to have a newly appointed leader parade around on a horse.
Found this fellow who followed us from Irinde. I just have to bring it at the right moment.
What's your jobs?
lindros
We're supposed to make cool looking explosions for dramatic effect.
I'm glad I studied all those years at Oakhall so I can make flashy lights.
pomelo
You have it easy, man. I have to make sure this doesn't explode in the cannon, and I also have to not blast the crowd.
lindros
You know magic ain't that easy. I lost track, what part of the speech is she up to now?
mince
She's saying something insulting about the Iron Prince's... appendage.
And some rather colorful anecdotes about-
lindros
That means nothing to me. I recall in the rehearsal she calls the Guild bloated slugs, was that where we have to take action?
pomelo
No, that's already gone. It was where-
mince
Hold on, was that the hand signal? Let's go!
pomelo
No, no. I think she was just waving her arms to make a point.
mince
Nice save. That could have been awkward.
ellerie
...the price of our obedience! No more will we be the margins of the Crescent's towns,
no more will we be pawns of the wicked!
Under my leadership, I will carve Irinde's name into the heart of the Crescent!
Do you want me as your Chieftain?
johnny spices
Chief Ellerie does not set her sights to just Irinde, but seeks to strengthen our bond with our brethren in Lake Lotugyr, who suffer from the injustices of the Iron Realm and their compatriots!
dune
We need a Chief that faces our problems, a Chief that doesn't look for compromises!
Chief Ellerie will restore Irinde to its glory days, rather than conforming to the new.
guard
This is a Chief that we deserve!
We will slaughter all those who dared look down upon us!
We'll build Irinde a throne out of the corpses of our foes, and rule as the Crescent's kings!
ellerie
(I did not promise any of that, but contradicting them would be a bad idea.)
So I ask you, again, people of Irinde, will you accept me as your Chief?
pomelo
I think we're almost there. Lindros, you ready? Lindros?
lindros
(eyes closed) ...
pomelo
(opens eyes) Lindros!
lindros
(opens eyes) Huh? Must have drifted off. They're still going? I'm not paid enough for overtime.
pomelo
Be patient, I think its- Yeah, that's it!
mince
That was the hand gesture! Let's go, let's go!
lindros
About damn time.
pomelo
Please, please let the calculations be right. Please don't hit the crowd.
(The cannon goes off successfully as Mince presents the horse to Ellerie. The crowd cheers.)
crowd
Chief! Chief! Chief!
nerysa
This is really happening. Is no one going to stop her? What am I to do?
crowd
Chief! Chief! Chief!
(Ellerie approaches the horse.)
crowd
Chief! Chief! Chief!
(Ellerie mounts the horse and promotes to a new class.)

Chieftan
Mounted warriors who lead people and are just great. Like me.

oriana
How did that work? Was it so easy to accept an outsider as their Chief?
tower
This is what happens when you have a culture that reveres prowess in battle and Ellerie happens to be, in fact, winning battles.
And of course, inspiring outrage against outside forces is a classic maneuver.
oriana
This is going to be messy.
She told us of her intent, but I assumed we'd just tighten relations with Irinde, not actually declare herself Chief and shove her foot into a new conflict.
tower
Perhaps she aimed lower initially, but Chief Oren being captured and Irinde's simmering resentment gave her a new opportunity.
oriana
She does have a good eye for opportunity. I'm not sure how I should feel about this.
tower
What you feel is irrelevant. She succeeded, and we'd better get used to it, or jump ship.
oriana
We are certainly entering turbulent waters.
maurice
This was all just a side project, I didn't expect to care as much as I did.
Keilu, I can only pray you're not too mad at me when you see your mother.
Ellerie, you will be stopped. You won't take anything more from me.

Character Descriptions

Aigo
An aging librarian who detests Oakhall, the Sect and the Faithful equally. Used to be known as Fern the Flesh Flayer.

Foxberry
An aspiring cartographer who is way too full of herself. With any luck, will end up dead before I pay wages.

Maurice
An old friend from my days at the royal court. Doesn't know it yet, but I'm due to be collecting a lot of debt from him.

Keilu
The son of that Commander who got herself killed. Thinks it's our fault despite the facts, what an idiot.

Saltsworn
One of the biggest adventuring guilds on the Crescent. Trades quality for quantity.

Salt Elite
The finest the Saltsworn has to offer. Not really that good, but there's a lot.

C. Curio
What could the C. in his name stand for? More mysteries that will forever be unresolved with his untimely demise.

Carrion Crow
A splinter faction of the Saltsworn who tried to push C. Curio as their new leader, a very poor decision.

Blaine
The man, the legend, the Blaine. Seriously, who is this person?

Blaine's Band
Blaine! He's the best! Blaine! Will beat the rest!

Gull Grunts
A selection of nameless, faceless fodder that exist only as a number. Let's put them out of their misery.

Legend Legion
A band of brothers whose bonds are bound more tightly than blood. They will attack as a single force.

The Circle
A tightly-knit organisation responsible for many of the Crescent's rising stars. Their members seem to follow conflict.

Boom Wagon
Wagons containing enough explosives to blow fortifcations sky high. We must stop them in their tracks before they do.

Totem
A functional automated construct made by a skilled sorceror. Has many possible applications but is fragile and temporary.

Wood Lord
A conduit for the invasion forces determined to exterminate humanity.

Loot
Just gonna yoink this while no one's looking. Or smash it.