Base Camp

Camp dialogues are also listed in their respective chapter scripts.

Chapter 5 Hestia

hestia

Ah, there you are.
Not bad. The camp, I mean.

kyra

It's always safer sleeping between four walls.

hestia

No arguments there.
Well, going forward I figure you'll probably find me around here.
I'll see about keeping you folks supplied with basic weaponry at all times.
I know my alchemy, too. Come to me if you need more tomes.
...The only problem is, materials don't grow on trees.
I'll need funding if I'm to make you stuff. Them's the breaks.

kyra

That'll be really helpful. Thanks, Hestia.

hestia

Hey, it's my job.
I've also got my contacts in the marketplace.
If you want to know what's for sale just about anywhere,
I'd be happy to give you a preview.

kyra

Got it.

hestia

Also, before it was my job, blacksmithery was my hobby.
I may work on my own little projects on the side.
I'll let you know if I come up with something special you can use.

kyra

Having you around's going to be quite the boon, huh?

hestia

Wait until I actually do something before you say that.
Now, this is the most important part...

kyra

Yeah?

hestia

(smiles) It gets lonely in the forge. Come around for a chat from time to time!

kyra

Heh. I'll try.

Pheme, Phobos, Hecate, & Soter

If Phobos, Hecate, & Soter are alive

kyra

Hi there, Pheme. How are you--

pheme

Shh! Not so loud!

kyra

What?

pheme

I'm trying to listen.

kyra

What, to them?

pheme

Yes.

kyra

...Why?

pheme

(smiles) So I know what they're talking about, duh!
C'mon, just stand there and don't look guilty.
They haven't noticed us. Here we go...

kyra

U-Uhh...

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

phobos

W-Well... It's been a quiet couple of days.
You think we actually made it? Will we be okay?

soter

S-Surely you jest, Phobos!
Do you not comprehend the gravity of the situation?
We aided in a heretic's escape! And not just any heretic...
A heretic captured by the Grand Inquisitor herself!
Things may never return to how they were before...

hecate

...Yeah, aptly put for once.

soter

For once? Oh, what does it matter...

phobos

S-Surely you're being too dramatic.
We'll have to lay low for some time, but...
Kyra's got to have a plan. She always has a plan...

hecate

I don't think she thought this through that far.
Our dear leader might have gotten us all--

phobos

No, c'mon! Are you serious?!

soter

...She once lived in the capital, unlike you.
She saw first-hand how the theocracy loathes heresy...
And all those that would dare tolerate it.

hecate

......
How do you feel about it, Soter? Personally.

soter

I was once a holy knight.
Those days may be through, yet nevertheless...
Yes, I shall admit it. I am not comfortable with this.

phobos

...W-We're in this together now, though.
We'll stick together and weather the storm.
Just as we've always done...

soter

Aye. That may be all we can do now.

hecate

...I suppose...

[Phobos and Hecate gain C-rank support with Soter.]

pheme

Oh, no... Problems in paradise, huh...

kyra

Pheme, I really don't think we should've listened to that.

pheme

Oh, please! What's the harm?

kyra

I don't feel comfortable with this. Everyone's entitled to their privacy.

pheme

Well, I think it's important to know what's on your friends' minds.
This way, you can get to know the people around you better.
And if they've any concerns on their minds...
You can be there for them, and help them to solve them!
That's all stuff a good friend does, right?

kyra

...And you want me to do that by spying on people.

pheme

(smiles) Yeah! Although I wouldn't call it “spying,” exactly...

kyra

Oh, goodness... These shenanigans are going to get you in trouble someday.

pheme

Hasn't happened yet! I'm an expert at the “shenanigans,” as you call them.

kyra

R-Right...

pheme

...There's... also another reason.
Maybe this way, we'll find clues about what you and the old lady were talking about...
About how someone with us might have... Well, you remember.

(Kyra starts.)

kyra

Y-You eavesdropped on us?! Pheme--!

pheme

I-I was afraid you were leaving me out of the loop again!
Look, I'm really sorry, but... I just want to help you, Kyra.
When my brother hurt his leg, you were there for me.
You taught me how to hunt so I could provide for us in his stead.
I owe you so much, and I know I'm not the best at combat, so...
Look, look! I'm even keeping notes in my diary!

kyra

“Phobos and Soter went out to scout... Hecate stayed all day in her room...”
“The new knight was polishing his axe... Kyra went behind a tree to--”

(Kyra starts.)

Pheme!

pheme

Hey, anything could be a clue! You never know.

kyra

......
Well, while I... wish you went about it differently...
(smiles) I do appreciate the thought, Pheme.
(frowns) But please, try not to bother people, would you?

pheme

No worries! I'll be so sneaky, nobody will even know I'm watching!

kyra

That's... not what I meant...
(closes eyes) Oh, what's the point...

If any of the above are dead

kyra

Hi there, Pheme. How are you--

pheme

Shh! Not so loud!

kyra

What?

pheme

I'm trying to listen.

kyra

What? To whom?

pheme

Oh, just listen, generally.
No one seems to be in the mood to talk, though...
[eyes droop] That's kind of disappointing.

kyra

...Dare I ask why you're doing this?

pheme

(smiles) So I know what people are talking about, duh!

kyra

Pheme, I really don't think you should eavesdrop on people.

pheme

Oh, please! What's the harm?

kyra

I don't feel comfortable with this. Everyone's entitled to their privacy.

pheme

kyra

...And you want me to do that by spying on people.

pheme

(smiles) Yeah! Although I wouldn't call it “spying,” exactly...

kyra

Oh, goodness... These shenanigans are going to get you in trouble someday.

pheme

Hasn't happened yet! I'm an expert at the “shenanigans,” as you call them.

kyra

R-Right...

pheme

...There's... also another reason.
Maybe this way, we'll find clues about what you and the old lady were talking about...
About how someone with us might have... Well, you remember.

(Kyra starts.)

kyra

Y-You eavesdropped on us?! Pheme--!

pheme

kyra

“Mr. Edward and the blacksmith went out to scout...”
“The new knight was polishing his axe... Kyra went behind a tree to--”

(Kyra starts.)

Pheme!

pheme

Hey, anything could be a clue! You never know.

kyra

......
Well, while I... wish you went about it differently...
(smiles) I do appreciate the thought, Pheme.
(frowns) But please, try not to bother people, would you?

pheme

No worries! I'll be so sneaky, nobody will even know I'm watching!

kyra

That's... not what I meant...
(closes eyes) Oh, what's the point...

[Kyra and Pheme gain C-rank support.]

Nikolaos

Zero accommodations here, huh. Sleep in tents, wake up early.
(smiles) That's fine, I don't mind. Good to know what I'm signing up for.
I can handle a rough going. I just hate surprises.
Keep me up to date, though, and we'll get along great.

Elias

kyra

How're you holding up, Elias?
They didn't hurt you, did they?

elias

No... They just took me to a room and locked me up.
It wasn't so bad, though. There was a bed.
I mostly just slept until Uncle Ed showed up.

kyra

Phew... Good. Good, that's very good...

elias

Hey, sis... We can't go back home now, can we?

kyra

Not yet. But soon, you'll see.
We just have to wait until they forget about us.

elias

Will it truly be that easy...?

kyra

(smiles) ...Well, who knows. Maybe the forest air will do you good!
Hahaha...

elias

Kyra... Thanks for trying to cheer me up.
I'm glad you're still here with me.

kyra

And I'm not going anywhere.

Chapter 6 Hestia

hestia

Ah, Kyra! Glad you decided to swing by.
You know, you're in luck.

kyra

How do you figure?

hestia

Before our paths collided, I was busy with a personal project.
I was making a special bow. Just for the fun of it.
But now I have the perfect person to give it to.
Consider it a token of my gratitude.
For taking us in and dealing with Peri's nonsense.

kyra

Well, I do appreciate your group's help. Pericles included.
He may be a bit difficult, but I can tell his heart's in the right place.

hestia

Yeah... He's come a long way.

kyra

Hmm? What do you mean?

hestia

...Never mind. I shouldn't be talking about him behind his back.
Anyway, the bow's not ready yet, but it shouldn't take me too long.
It'll probably be good to shoot before we cross the border.
Make sure to come fetch it as soon as you can!
I have a bad tendency to misplace things.
If you don't come get the things I make for you, I may lose them...

kyra

I'll, uh, keep that in mind. Thanks a lot, Hestia.

Raleigh

We're going to Glamorgan now? Not even a moment's rest?
You know, I spent three months as a knight in the order.
With you, I have spent three days.
Take a guess where I've seen the most action.
It almost makes me yearn for the days of pointless marching and training...
I owe you, though, and unlike my former peers, I value loyalty.
Let it be known that I did not ask for this, though![A]

Eupraxia

(smiling) Ah, our leader. Have I introduced myself to you yet?
My name is Eupraxia. I shall lend a hand for the time being.

(Kyra becomes agitated.)

Kyra

...Oh, no! One shady old woman is quite enough, thanks.
You're going to explain what your deal is or I'm kicking you out.

Eupraxia

(frowns) My, how rude! I'll have you know, there isn't that much to me.
I have lived a life of solitude in the forest. I grew tired of it, however.
I have decided to shake the cobwebs off and spread my wings anew.
I do not believe that's a crime...

Kyra

You joined an army to “spread your wings?”

Eupraxia

Well, you'll be moving about quite a bit, no?

Kyra

C'mon! You're a skilled mage!
Powerful mages don't just grow on trees!

Eupraxia

My studies into anima yielded such a side effect, indeed.
It has come in handy, but that is all it is.

Kyra

...And you lived right next to the brigands' fort!
So much for solitude! What's up with that?

Eupraxia

Ah, yes, those rapscallions...
I was already there when they occupied the fort.
(smiles) They tried to rob me one time. Truly adorable.
I tried to go easy on them. The poor kids...

Kyra

......

Eupraxia

Is that all, my dear? I hope I have cleared all of your doubts.

Kyra

...No?

Eupraxia

That's too bad...

Kyra

(closes eyes) ...Sigh...

Begoña, Fango, & López

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

Begoña

You heard what they say? We might leave Tartaros entirely.
Gimme your advice, guys. I think we should stick with 'em, but...

López

Nah, let's just split up and stick around on our own!
Tartaros has treated us so very well, after all.
It's definitely worth wasting this opportunity to stay here!

Fango

...He's saying he agrees, and I agree too.
Workin' with these guys is way better than banditry!

Begoña

Good. I figured, just wanted to run it by you.
(smiles) Haha... You believe this, guys? We might get to wipe the slate clean!
We ain't criminals in Glamorgan. We're just... us.
Could be a good chance to start over, you never know.

López

Heh heh... Guess we'll have to make a name for ourselves again.
Soon their locks will all know 'bout the extraordinary López's skills!

Fango

Their merchants will know of Tough Fango's battering ram arms!

López

No pockets left unpicked!

Fango

No skulls left uncracked!

(Begoña becomes agitated.)

Begoña

(scowls) Dumb donkeys, both of you! Do you have flea drool for brains?!
We try anything, the runt'll turn us into pincushions!

Fango

W-Wait, but boss! You mean to say we...

López

...will have to...

Begoña

Sorry, boys... But I'm afraid so.

We will have to... go clean!

(Fango and López gasp.)

López

What?! But what'll I do then?! I don't know how clean people work!

Fango

Yeah, we know, believe me.

López

Hey! What's that supposed to--

Fango

But boss, all I know is how to hit people really hard!
You imagine me working as a... barkeep or somethin'?!

Begoña

Urgh... Calm down, you fools.
For now, let's keep giving it our all for the runt. That's worked so far.
Somethin' tells me she's just gonna keep getting into trouble...

López

...Yeah, that oughta work!
(grins) Hehehe! I'll repossess so many riches in our employer's name!

Fango

(grinning) I'll pummel all of her enemies into the ground!

Begoña

(smiles) ...Aw, heck. What am I gonna do with you two?
I can't even stay mad atcha. C'mon, group hug!

Fango

Group hug!

López

Group hug it is!

[The group gains 2 Luck.]

Glaucus

kyra

Well, it's happened just as you predicted.
We're leaving Tartaros.

glaucus

(smiles) It was a pretty safe bet.
Glamorgan, right? That's the right call.
The place's beautiful this time of year.
And you won't find any inquisition sympathizers there.
I had half a mind to desert and make my way there myself.

kyra

How convenient for you that we showed up, then.

glaucus

You said it.

kyra

So I guess you'll only accompany us as far as Glamorgan?

glaucus

Who knows? The future is not written.
I figure I'll stick with you for a while, as long as you stay there.
I mean, I can't imagine you'll be stupid enough to want to return.

kyra

...I suppose we'll see.
Well, for the time being, welcome to the team, um...
Oh, I don't think we introduced each other before. I'm Kyra.

glaucus

(smiles) Glaucus. A pleasure.

Elias & Edward

elias

Kyra, Uncle Ed says we have to go again...

kyra

I'm really sorry, big guy. But we weren't safe there.
We need to get out of the country, out of the holy knights' reach...

elias

It's all right. I get it.
Don't worry about me. I'm ready to travel...

edward

C'mon, Eli. Don't try to put on a strong face.
You know you don't need to do that around us.

elias

I-I just don't wanna worry Kyra...

kyra

...Are you truly able to march, Elias?
Please, just be honest. I'll worry more if you aren't.

elias

...U-Uh... I'm so sorry... I haven't been sleeping well...

kyra

Damn...

edward

(smiling) Chin up, both of you! Long faces don't suit ya.
When we get going, just hop on my back!
I'll be yer personal steed, Prince Eli.

elias

N-No! I don't want to give you trouble!

edward

Trouble? C'mon, how weak do you think I am?
(smiles) Look at these bulgin' muscles!

(Edward flexes.)

Ooo.... Harrumph...!

Gaahhh! Ahh, my back...!

elias

Pffft-- Ahahaha...

kyra

Grow up, Redbeard.

edward

Gehahaha... Just kiddin'! See? Fit as a butcher's dog!
I'll carry ya to the ends of the world if I must!

kyra

See, big guy? You don't need to worry about yourself.
You couldn't cause nearly as much trouble for Redbeard as he can!

edward

Hey...

elias

T-Thanks... I'm lucky to have you both.

edward

Aww... I ain't used to that kinda sappy talk, you know that!

kyra

...Heh...

Chapter 7 Hestia

hestia

You're just in time, Kyra.
I was just putting the final touches on this beauty.
I call it... Maelstrom, the bow of a million arrows!

kyra

Whoa... I can feel the power pulsating from it.

hestia

I was trying to enhance the range of a regular bow.
Used a little bit of magic.
...I think I overdid it a mite. Not only does it fire further...
It fires a MILLION magic arrows with one pull of the string!

kyra

B-But that's insane!

hestia

I'll take that as a compliment, but really, it's not all great.
For one, it... doesn't really fire a million arrows.
Just enough for a couple volleys before the enemy knows what's what.
Also, I had to haphazardly infuse a ton of magic power into the poor thing.
And now, well... It's difficult just to lift it. Give it a try.

(Kyra struggles with the bow.)

kyra

Oomph...! You weren't kidding! It feels like it's trying to jump out of my hands!

hestia

I wouldn't recommend being caught holding it.
Wouldn't recommend being caught in its sights, either!
High risk, high reward, I guess.

kyra

(smiles) I can't wait to give it a shot. Thanks a lot, Hestia.

hestia

(grins) Give 'em hell, girl.

Maelstrom
The bow of a million arrows, says Hestia. Magical, brave.

Pluto

......

(Pluto starts.)

Pluto

Do not stand behind me, woman!

kyra

...I'm right in front of you.
The name's Kyra. Looks like I'm your new boss.

Pluto

......
My code of honor forbids me from harming women...
But not from taking orders from them.

kyra

Ok...ay?
Anyway, you seem like a decent archer.
That's good. I was tired of being the only one.
...D-Don't let Pheme know I said that...

Pluto

......

kyra

All right, so--

(Pluto fires an arrow.)

Huh?

Pluto

......
You're good. Any lesser warrior would have perished.

kyra

Wait, did you just try to shoot at ME?!
You were... completely off, though...

Pluto

......
You have earned my respect. My bow is yours.

kyra

Wait, I thought you were already on our side...

Pluto

......

kyra

Well, whatever. Your name's Pluto, right?
It's good to have you.

Pluto

......

kyra

(closes eyes) (Well, he's exactly what I'd expected from someone Apate recruited.)

Nikolaos & Raleigh

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

nikolaos

Fight day in, fight day out...
Death marches whenever we're not fighting...
I'm exhausted!

If any Purloiners are alive

raleigh

Tell me about it... This group is completely bonkers.
A heretic doing her thing with priests and knights...
Mercenaries fighting together with brigands...
Seriously! Those brigands took me captive!
They came to capture them, freed me, and then...
Suddenly we're recruiting the scum!
Who does that?!

If all Purloiners are dead

raleigh

Tell me about it... This group is completely bonkers.
A heretic doing her thing with priests and knights...
Tireless mercenaries with a dubious agenda...[A]

nikolaos

Wow, you're thinking real hard about this, huh.

raleigh

What's that supposed to mean?

nikolaos

Well, I try not to overthink stuff so much.
It's better to just go with the flow, you know?
(smiles) I must say, it's worked out for me.
So far I prefer this group to my previous one.
Just a tad.

raleigh

(flatly) I'm so happy for you.

nikolaos

(still smiling) Drink rum, hack and slash, soldier on. That's my mantra.
You should take a page from my book, pal.

raleigh

The latter two I get, but “drink rum?”

nikolaos

What? I happen to like rum! Is that illegal?

raleigh

No, but getting drunk before a battle is a really bad idea.

nikolaos

(smiles) Says you. For me, it helps. Gives me a lil' bit of extra courage.

raleigh

...I'll end up drinking to drown my sorrows...

[Raleigh and Nikolaos gain C-rank support.]

Kairos, Agari, and Pericles

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

kairos

...May the Mother's Mercy be upon you.
Amen.

pericles

(smiling) Thank you for attending to us in such short order, Father.

kairos

No worries. It was my pleasure.
I don't get to flex my priestly muscle much around here.

agari

(frowns) Aww, man...
Here I thought I wouldn't have to go to mass while we're traveling.
Turns out we have a church on the go. Thanks a lot, Father...

(Pericles becomes agitated.)

pericles

Don't be so rude, Agariste!
Father Kairos has graciously done us a favor.
Thanks to him, we won't miss our daily prayer.
Show him some gratitude, would you?

agari

Don't yell at me! I get it, I get it!

(Pericles shifts awkwardly.)

pericles

...Ah, forgive me, I... Well, certainly you understand that I only...

agari

All right, all right... Thanks, Father Kairos.
I mean, for real this time.

kairos

(smirks) A squire of the holy knights, so slipshod in her faith?
That's not something you see every day.

pericles

Pray excuse her, Father. She is young, and...

kairos

On the contrary, I'd like to know more.
Why did you join the holy knights, Agariste?

agari

...That's none of your business.

kairos

Hmm... Well, I guess that's true, yeah.
Say, Sir Pericles... I forgot my flask of blessed water.
Could you fetch it for me? It's in my tent.

pericles

Certainly, Father! One moment.

(Pericles leaves.)

kairos

(smirks) Heh. That dad of yours is so easy.
(frowns) ...It's got to do with him, doesn't it?

agari

......
He was barely ever home. His duties kept him...
So I figured, if he won't come home, I'll go to him.

kairos

Some would call that a disnoble reason to join the holy knights.
But I am not so rigid.
I do not know you two, Agari, but I can tell one thing already.
He's trying, and so are you. It's rather heartwarming, in a way.

agari

I... I guess it would be, huh...

(Pericles returns.)

pericles

Pardon me, Father. I could not find it...

kairos

(smiles) Oh! Turns out it was in my back pocket.
How airheaded of me. A thousand apologies.

pericles

Please, it's not a problem.
Well, now that the prayer is done, we shall take our leave.
It's time for our training session, Agariste. Are you ready?

agari

...Yeah. Let's go.
(smiles) I'm totally gonna beat you today.

pericles

(smiles) That is the spirit I want to see!

(They leave.)

kairos

They're trying, that's for sure...
I wonder what it took for them to realize they won't have one another forever.

[Agari gains 1 Defense.]

Elias & Edward

kyra

This is going to be the first time we're out of Tartaros.
Are you excited, Elias?

elias

I guess...

edward

(smiling) You guess? Glamorgan's a real pretty place!
Way prettier than Tartaros, if you ask me.
The water's clearer, the greens are greener...
Ahh, I'll admit, despite the circumstances,
I'm looking forward to going back for a spell.

kyra

What was it that got you to leave, again?
Tried to plunder the wrong ship and it went wrong?

edward

Ship? What're you on about? I've never been a sailor!
Nah, but you know, this and that...
Sometimes things just line up like that.
Can't help life's twists and turns.

elias

That's a lot of words to say nothing at all.

(Edward feigns being wounded.)

edward

(grinning) Ugh! Hit and sunk!

kyra

Good to see all that's happened hasn't put out the fire in you, big guy.

elias

You worry too much... I'm okay, see?

kyra

You're more okay than the rest of us, if anything!

edward

Can't argue with that!

Chapter 8 Hestia & Tiresias

Tiresias

(smiling) Ah, is that you, Kyra?
I wished to thank you once more for welcoming me to your bunch.

kyra

It's not a bother.
I see you're getting along with Hestia there.

Tiresias

That is why I wished to thank you again!
Not only do I get a whole army to keep me safe on the road,
but an impressive craftswoman to geek out with!
If you'll pardon the expression, haha.

hestia

Tiresias here specializes in magic, but it's not so different.
Be molten steel or incorporeal energies, we both just hammer stuff into shape.

Tiresias

In a manner of speaking.

hestia

It is rather nice to have someone I can talk to about our stuff.

kyra

You can talk to me...

hestia

(smiles) Heh, yeah. But you're the one I count on to put my creations to use.
With Tiresias here I can ramble about the more boring details.

Tiresias

Boring details is what I live for.

If Wulfric is alive

kyra

Well, I'm already terrified about what you two are going to whip up together.

Tiresias

Ahahaha, you should be!
Nothing's more dangerous than two crazies experimenting for fun.

hestia

We might set the camp on fire. Be very careful, girl.

kyra

Ahahaha...
P-Please don't. Elias is here...

If Wulfric is dead

kyra

(serious) ...Say... Uh, not to be a downer, but...

tiresias

You want to know how I'm holding up, after Wulfric...
I... I won't lie, I am hurting. Deeply.
I'm trying to keep my mind off of it.
I'll be all right, Kyra. I just... do not wish to speak about it yet.[A]

kyra

Yeah, sorry... Take your time.[A]

hestia

I didn't get to meet him, but the way you've talked to me about him...
I figure he'd want you to keep on fighting the good fight.[A]

tiresias

That's probably right...
(smiles) Let's leave that dreary topic for now. We have things to do![A]

hestia

Yeah...[A]

kyra

......

Wulfric

wulfric

Lady Kyra... Words cannot express how grateful I am to you.

kyra

Not another one... What's with you noble dandies and your honorifics?
I'm as common as it gets. Anything beyond Kyra makes me feel weird.

wulfric

(smiles) Ah, pardon me. Tiresias often tells me I need to stop being such a stick-in-the-mud.
(serious) But I am not a nobleman. Not truly.

kyra

You aren't? That's a surprise.
Do you just like talking like that, then?

wulfric

...It's a long story.

kyra

Oh.

wulfric

That aside, I truly am most grateful.
It has been a long time since I could rest easy.
Knowing that Tiresias is safe among friends...
We've been alone on the road for far too long.

kyra

How did you two meet, anyway? You're Glamorgan, right?

wulfric

He and a small cohort of like-minded individuals fled Tartaros years ago.
You can probably hazard a guess as to their reasons.
But those uncaring monsters, they were so worried for their own skin...
They marched at speed. Tiresias fell behind, and they... abandoned him.

kyra

Is that when you found him? Lucky break...

wulfric

No. I found the mangled bodies of his fellow escapees.
Brigands fell upon them. Ironically, being left behind saved Tiresias.
One of them had some strength left. He begged me to seek him out.
So I did. Fortunately he hadn't wandered too far from the path.

kyra

And you've been together ever since...

wulfric

I had not a home nor anybody to call a loved one, and neither did he.
(smiles) Tiresias... He is a wonderful person. You can already tell, right?
He could be cursing the Mother, or anyone else, for his misfortune.
Instead he is quick with a joke, a smile and a hearty laugh.

kyra

(smiles) Only because he has a faithful companion to guide him along.
I can tell that, too. He doesn't need his sight when he has you.

wulfric

......
Please, Kyra, don't hesitate to let me know how I can be of help.

Vasiliki

vasiliki

(smiling) Commander!

kyra

Hey, Vasiliki...

vasiliki

(smiling) You know, I wanted to ask you something.
I've just realized, you're an archer too.
Way better than me, at that.

kyra

Yeah?

vasiliki

...Why would you pick me? You can do everything I could...

kyra

I don't know how to make vulneraries. Only you can make them.

vasiliki

Yeah, maybe a handful by the time my contract is through.
I mean, it'll be great practice for me, but...

kyra

Why are you arguing about my choice to hire you?

vasiliki

......
(smiles) ......

kyra

(smiles) Pfft... Oh, you're so... endearing!
It's such a breath of fresh air. With all that's going on, I needed that.
Thanks. I'm glad I picked you.

vasiliki

(smiling) Uh, happy to help! Teehee...

Scymerius

Ah, the commander. Making the rounds?

kyra

Do you ever take that helmet off?

Scymerius

Occasionally.
It gets stinky in here. Got to wash it from time to time.
When there's people around, though? Never.

kyra

Mind explaining why?

Scymerius

I do, actually. Is that a crime?

kyra

You do know I can fire you any time I want, right?

Scymerius

But you won't. I'm too good to fire.

kyra

Wrong. Get out.

Scymerius

......

kyra

......

(Scymerius squirms.)

Scymerius

Oh, c'mon, don't do this to me.
Getting fired on the first day would destroy my reputation!

kyra

Ah, now I see what lurks beneath.
Not so cool and collected in reality, are you.

Scymerius

Oh, you were... You were bluffing to make me... Ahh, I see, I see.
Very droll, Commander. Most gigglesome.

kyra

Goodness, ease up. No one here's after you.

Scymerius

Sayeth the wolf, from behind the veneer of a sheep.

kyra

Knock yourself out. Just make sure you follow orders.

Scymerius

On that front, we'll get along swimmingly.

Fructuoso

kyra

Still wearing the armor? Wouldn't you rather take it off at camp?

Fructuoso

I don't see you taking your armor off.

kyra

True, but my armor is comfortable.
Yours is, uh... It doesn't look that way.

Fructuoso

Maybe I like it that way.
A lil' discomfort builds character.

kyra

......

(Fructuoso squirms.)

Fructuoso

Okay, look, I know nobody here would do something like that...
But I've lived my whole life like this, so now it's force of habit.

I'm afraid someone will steal pieces of my armor if I take them off!
And then I'll have to scavenge for new ones, and make them fit, and...

kyra

All right, point taken. Keep it on if it makes you feel better.

Fructuoso

......
(smiles) Would you like to know where I got each of them?
They all have a fascinating and riveting story.

kyra

What, you didn't pry them off of corpses?

Fructuoso

Please! I have some dignity.
(smiles) No, I took them from graves that no longer had corpses in them!
Hundreds of years of history in these things, I tell you!

kyra

Yes, because gravedigging is so much more dignified than robbery.

Fructuoso

I asked them if they minded, and they didn't complain.
My conscience is clear.

kyra

......

Elias

kyra

How are you liking Glamorgan, Elias?

elias

It's all right, I guess...
But I'm used to the countryside. I've lived there my whole life!

kyra

That's true, yeah. Here's hoping we get to see something different.
But I'm afraid we aren't going to be visiting THAT place any time soon...

elias

It's all right. It wasn't any closer before we left.

kyra

One day, big guy. Maybe sooner than you think.
The way things are going, we might end up in the capital at the end.
We'll... probably be there to fight, I won't lie, but...
Who knows, maybe I'll be able to take you to the Mother's Font!

elias

(smiling) Do you think it's true that it never runs out, like they say?

kyra

Bah. It's probably just the same water being reused.

elias

Haha, yeah... Still, it's nice to think about it.
What will you pray for, if we get to visit?

kyra

(frowns) I guess I'll pray for our parents' souls, and uh...
I don't know, big guy. You know me. I'm no believer.
What about you?

elias

I'd pray for you.

kyra

For me, huh...

elias

You're always getting into trouble. Often because of me, too...
I just want you to stay safe. That's really all I want.

kyra

...Don't you worry, Elias. I'll be okay.
That's a promise.

elias

That's... not something you can really promise, though, is it?

kyra

...I...
Look, try not to think these dark thoughts, all right?
I won't be in any less risk if you worry yourself sick over me.

elias

Sicker, you mean.

kyra

......

elias

Sorry...
I'm just a bit tired is all. Didn't sleep so well.

kyra

After all that's happened, I can't blame you.
Go early tonight, would you?
I know it's not something you can exactly force, but try to rest up.

elias

Yeah, okay...

Chapter 9 Hestia & Tiresias

hestia

Hmm... I'm thinking about what I could make for you next.

kyra

You're doing enough as it is. You don't have to worry...

hestia

Now that Tiresias is here, maybe something magic-inclined...
Then again, I don't want to distract him from his research.

tiresias

(smiles) Please, it would hardly be a problem.
I can't just spend my every waking moment researching.
What better way to take a break than setting my creativity free?

hestia

No, no, I don't want to pull you away from your... secret project.

tiresias

Ohh, yes... That.

kyra

...?

hestia

Hmm... Maybe I'll try making one of those fancy weapons that can strike twice.
Yeah, you'd like one of those, wouldn't you, Kyra?

kyra

You can just make them?

hestia

(smirks) What, you thought people get them by planting seeds?
Someone's got to make 'em. I never have, myself, but...
It should be a fun challenge. Get back to me in a while.

kyra

Will do. Thanks as always, Hestia.

Fiadh

kyra

Hello, Fiadh.

fiadh

......

kyra

...Er... So. How's it hanging?

fiadh

It's hanging.

kyra

Right, right...

......

fiadh

......
I'm making you uncomfortable, aren't I?

kyra

Is it that obvious?

fiadh

Well, it's what I'm trying to do.
I want you to be afraid of me. Just a little bit.

kyra

...Mind telling me why?

fiadh

I don't know yet what you intend to pull here.

kyra

Didn't the margrave get you up to speed before we set out?
We're trying to bring the hierophant of Tartaros to justice, and--

fiadh

Yes, I know what you claim to be your goal.

kyra

You don't trust us, do you?

fiadh

The margrave has often told me of his dear friend, Edward.
He vouches for him, and by extension, the rest of you.
...That is why I cannot afford to trust you.
It shocks me that he doesn't see this for the blind spot that it is.

kyra

Wow, you're paranoid.
If we had any ulterior motives, why not just let you all die to those assassins?

fiadh

It doesn't have to be all of you.
If the margrave says Edward is trustworthy, I believe him.
Edward says you're trustworthy. I could believe him, too.
You say that cantankerous hag of yours is trustworthy.
The hag isn't worried about the knight stabbing her in the back.
Then there's the whole jolly cadre you've brought along.
This chain of trust is far too long, with far too many links.
Can you guarantee to me that none of those links will break?

kyra

......
Okay, I do have to admit, I see your point, but none of us...

fiadh

Were you about to assure me that none of you could possibly be a traitor?
Stopping halfway through such a sentence says more than any words ever could.

kyra

There are... suspicions. But if anyone's getting stabbed in the back, it's us.
I doubt anybody here holds any grudges against the margrave.

fiadh

You doubt it, just like I doubt everything you just said.
So just in case, I'm going to keep glaring at everyone.
[narrows eyes] So they know my arrows will land in some very uncomfortable places,
should anyone harbor any funny ideas towards my liege.

kyra

You keep at it.

fiadh

...Make no mistake, though. So far as none of you give me cause to oppose you,
my bow arm will follow your say, and my arrows will find only your foes' flesh.

kyra

That's something, at least.

Órlaith

kyra

Oh, hi there. You're coming with us too?

Órlaith

The margrave said, since we're already acquainted, I should tag along.
I don't know if you really need the extra help. You're plenty strong.

kyra

Thanks, but still, never hurts to have more.
Say, what's your name? I uh, didn't have the chance to ask.

Órlaith

Órlaith. Sorry about that, by the way.
I don't really like talking much, to be honest.

kyra

That's all right. You're more amicable than Fiadh, at any rate.

Órlaith

(smiles) Hah... Well, Fiadh would take an arrow if it meant someone else didn't take it.
(serious) Rue the day you make an enemy of her, though...
Or the day you mildly inconvenience her.
Getting chewed out by her is a rite of passage for new Pyrite recruits.

kyra

Yikes...

Órlaith

Hold your yikeses. It may seem like inferno, but you'd be surprised.
The margrave seems convinced Wrexham doesn't need a proper knight commander,
so she usually ends up acting the part. And she's actually really good to us.
I never saw her refuse a sick day, ignore a plea or mock a moment of weakness.
Once you get used to her personality, she's a surprisingly nice boss.

kyra

Huh. You're right, that IS surprising.
But enough about Fiadh. Tell me more about yourself, if you want.

Órlaith

There's not much to tell. I'm from a village near the keep.
A knight once helped me to find my toy when I was a kid.
I wanted to become a knight so I could help people like that.
Then I did. And now I'm here. The end.

kyra

Ah.

Órlaith

Boring, huh?

kyra

Hey, I've got enough people with secrets and tragic tales in this army.

Órlaith

(smiles) Well, I'm just boring.

kyra

(smiles) If anything, I find that rather refreshing.
Glad to have you here, my boring friend.

Órlaith

And I'm glad to be here!

Soter & Pericles

soter

(smiling) Kyra, my fair companion! How fare you today?

kyra

(smiling) Better now that we're out of the lion's den, Soter.
(serious) But not as well as I'll be when this is all over.

soter

Indeed, indeed... Alas, that goes without saying.

kyra

What were you two doing? Recounting old war stories?

pericles

He and I are the only proper holy knights in our midst, if only formerly.
Regardless of how it ended for both of us, it was a part of our lives.
Soter sought me out, seeking to indulge in some reminiscing.

soter

I get nostalgic, Kyra. It is common, at our age.
Sometimes I yearn for days long past...

pericles

...I must admit that I differ.

kyra

Wait, you're not the nostalgic type, Pericles?
That's a surprise. I thought it lined up with the rest of... uh...

pericles

Do not sugarcoat it, Kyra. I know who I am.
But no, I do not count wistfulness among my many flaws.
Truth be told, Pericles, the undyingly loyal holy knight of an era bygone...
is perhaps the person I despise the most in the entire world.

kyra

Whoa... Strong words. Grandiloquent, but strong.
Is that why you've such a chip on your shoulder about the theocracy?

pericles

...I mislike this topic. Could we please speak of brighter matters?

soter

(smiles) Verily! Where was I before our friend interrupted us?
Ah, yes. I was speaking of that one mission.
A group of heretics was somewhere in the capital.
We were tasked with reigning them in.
You would not believe where they attempted to hide!

pericles

......
Pardon me. I... I feel a tad lightheaded.
Perhaps it is what we had for supper...
I will excuse myself now.

(Pericles leaves.)

soter

...I-Is it something I said?

kyra

I don't think his memories of the inquisition are as fond as yours, Soter...

soter

I would not exactly call them fond, Kyra. I did leave, after all.
But yes, I must concede that I do not bear his burning hatred for my old life.

kyra

I cannot help but wonder what went down.
It must've been something bad, to cause such resentment.
Who wronged this man?

soter

Perhaps nobody wronged him at all. Regret takes many forms, Kyra.
The work of a holy knight often called for difficult decisions.
'Tis why I departed. There were orders I could not abide.

kyra

So you think he did abide them, and now he...?

soter

......
I merely ramble, as I tend to do. I do not know him well enough.

kyra

Well, he'll have to sort out his demons on his own. We can't help him there.
But we can help him with his quest to make this world a better place.
There we are of identical minds, through and through.

soter

I, too, shall do my part. To right the wrongs of the past...

kyra

I'm counting on you as always, Soter.
Better not get distracted by memories on the field.

soter

(smiles) It upsets me that you believe there is any need to remark that!

[Soter gains 1 Strength.]

Phobos & Begoña

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

phobos

H-Hey! Wait a minute, you...!

Begoña

Wha-- You! The runt's runt!
The runtest runt... The head runt!

phobos

Quit calling me a runt, would you?

Begoña

Whaddya want?

phobos

......
I-I just want you to know that...
Your crimes are neither forgiven nor forgotten!

Begoña

[mocking smile] Oh, that it? Thanks, man, 'preciate it!
Can you get outta my way now?

phobos

...I just don't get it.
H-How can you be so... shameless?
We broke you out of prison, after you raided our village!
After you put our families' lives in danger!
And you have the gall to walk around like nothing's wrong!
Like we're all just good friends, like you aren't a criminal!

Begoña

Hey! I've stayed clean since you busted me out.
All I've done is help you runts out as much as I could.

(Phobos becomes agitated.)

phobos

T-That's not enough! You've done so much harm...!

Begoña

What? Did your mama catch a booboo during our attack or something?

...Look, boy, I shouldn't have to be the one to tell you this, but...
The world ain't rainbows and sunshine. I've had it rough, too. We all did.
You think it was fun for us to be brigands? Huh?

phobos

...Well, yes. It sure seemed like it!

Begoña

Baahh... Okay, fine! We did enjoy ourselves pillagin' and robbin'!
We had camaraderie! We had freedom! It was nice, dammit! Guilty as charged!
So what? We all still woulda picked honest work a million times if we could!

phobos

Oh yeah?!

Begoña

We're here, ain't we?

phobos

...!

Begoña

You got no idea what it's like in the northern peaks.
Life in the untamed wilderness of the Pyrenees...
Where only rogues, mad dogs and disgraced losers dare go.
Those who did go, settled as they could and built somethin' of a life...
And y'know what happens when people build a life? They have kids.

phobos

So you mean...

Begoña

We were born there. We never knew nothin' other than strife and violence.
What else could we do, if not be outlaws in greener lands?
People like us got two choices: That or mercenary work.
Real mercenary work, not the lil' children's play you runts put on.
Work that is barely a couple steps removed from brigandry, really...

phobos

......
I'm sorry. I-It's true, you've not done anything bad since you joined us...
Forgive me. I-I'll step out of your way now...

Begoña

Listen here. Phobos, wasn't it?
'Cause I'm nicer than you give me credit for, I'll give you some free advice.
I can tell yer a nice lad. You've lived yer whole life with family and friends.
It's made you happy, but it's also given ya a shortsighted view of the world.
It makes you unfairly judge people as “bad”... or worse.
It makes you ripe for the picking for the kind of bad person that plays good.

phobos

......

Begoña

We're in this together now. Stay safe out there, will ya?

(Begoña leaves.)

phobos

...T-That's... not how I expected that to go...
Huh.

Edward

edward

(smiling) What'd I tell you? Was I right or was I right?
Barlowe's a great dude. I knew he wouldn't let us down.

kyra

Yeah, he seemed like a decent sort, for a nobleman...
What was that all about, though?

edward

What was what all about?

kyra

When we first met him.
You two started acting like you'd lost your minds.
For a moment I thought that was our plan down the gutter...

edward

(smiles) Oh, yeah! Hahaha... I guess it'd look weird, wouldn't it.
It's just a thing we have. We enjoy re-enacting our first meeting.

kyra

...By making noises and pretending to throw punches at one another?

edward

We weren't pretending back then, believe me.
It was a long time ago. We were younger. Dumber.
Different priorities, different outlooks on life...
You told us in a couple decades I'd be going to him for help,
we'd both have laughed you out of the room.

kyra

Sheesh, what did you do, Redbeard?

edward

C'mon, why's it gotta be me that instigated the fight?
He may look so wise, affable and solemn now,
but he was every bit the piece of work I was back then.
I oughta tell you more another time.

kyra

Right...

So, who won the fight?

edward

(smiles) Pshaw! He was always a thinker, not a fighter.

kyra

So he's not the one who turned you into a cyclops?

edward

Bahahah! Nah, I'll tell you that story some other time.
But for now I'd better stop myself.
You don't have the time to sleep through Redbeard's Storytime.

kyra

Hey, I always have time to sleep through Redbeard's Storytime.

edward

Baahh...

Elias & Pheme

elias

Hey, Kyra... Are we going to be staying at that palace?

pheme

Gosh, please say yes...

kyra

What? Oh, you mean the margrave's keep?
(smiles) Heh... Liked what you saw, did you, Elias?

elias

W-Well, while everyone else was distracted, I may've...
snuck into one of the bedrooms. I was very tired, and...

kyra

(smiles) It'll be our little secret, big guy.

pheme

That's us. Known for being great at keeping secrets!

kyra

(frowns) Pheme, would you please not spread this one around?

pheme

I-I have some restraint, boss! The secret'll stay secret!

elias

Y-Yeah... I guess it will, huh...

kyra

What? What's that look for?
...Did you get caught?

(Elias shifts awkwardly.)

elias

I... S-Sorry! I don't think it'll get you in trouble with the margrave.
A guy just walked in! I didn't have any time to hide or anything.
But he just said “try not to oversleep, your companions will be worried.”
Then he smiled and closed the door. I guess it was just a servant.
I preferred to be safe than sorry, so I left to go looking for you.

kyra

I see...

(smiles) So, was the bed comfortable?

elias

It was... bliss. I've never laid on such a nice bed before.
So that's what sets nobles apart from peasants, huh...

kyra

Well, that and a lot more things, but yeah, they can afford nicer beds.

pheme

(smiling) Honestly, who cares about the rest? I'd take the beds alone...
That was the best nap I've taken in my whole life.

kyra

...Wait a minute...
Why are YOU talking about the beds, Pheme?

(Pheme shifts guiltily.)

pheme

I-I totally didn't go snooping around the margrave's castle!
I was just uh... I was tired too! Like your brother!
What, Elias is the only one who gets to sneak around?

kyra

That's different.
When he does it, it's endearing. When you do it, it's a crime.
Please tell me you at least didn't get caught...

pheme

(smirks) Pshaw! I'm way better at hide-and-seek than him!

elias

Hey...

kyra

Pheme, I swear...

elias

(smiling) So are we going to be staying there after this is done?
Please tell me we are. It's so nice there.

kyra

I'm not sure, but uh... The margrave struck me as a reasonable fellow.
He might let you stick around, if I ask him.

elias

Only me? What about you?

kyra

I can't afford to take a vacation. There's so much I have to do.

elias

Aren't you tired?
You've been running around and fighting so much lately...

kyra

You're worried about me, now? C'mon, big guy...

elias

I'm always worried about you, Kyra. I'm your brother.

kyra

Guess that's the lot of a sibling, huh. Always worrying.

pheme

Older, younger, doesn't matter. Worrying is what siblings do.
At least, the ones that get along. Our neighbor and his sister--

kyra

Say, what did the guy who found you look like?

elias

Er... Bald, but he had a big beard and these funny little glasses.

kyra

(smiles) ...Right...

elias

Why are you smiling like that all of a sudden? You know him?

kyra

(still smiling) Don't worry about it.

Chapter 10 Hestia

kyra

Hey there, Hestia...

hestia

Kyra? What's on your mind, girl?

kyra

Well, I'm just now realizing, I don't know much about you.

hestia

Yeah, that's true. We did just sort of waltz into your life.
What would you like to know, then? Ask away.

kyra

I guess the obvious question is why you left the theocracy.
I can't imagine it was lack of money or poor work conditions.
You wouldn't need to do... unsavory things, like the knights do, either.

hestia

Yeah, it was a really cozy job.
Made tons of weapons and armor, day in, day out, got paid a mountain of gold.
Honestly, it was just Pericles. I wasn't gonna let him and his kid go off alone.

kyra

I guess you were good friends with Agari, huh.

hestia

Well, actually, first I was friends with Pericles.
We met when I was an apprentice and he was a rising star.
I was... a different person. We became fast friends.

kyra

I'm guessing he wasn't the way he is now back then.

hestia

Oh no, he was in his prime. Beyond spirited, devoted to a fault...
Many called him the ideal of a knight.
Some even thought he might make Grand Inquisitor one day.

kyra

Yeah, that's about what I've heard and could've figured.

hestia

The next question would be what changed, wouldn't it?
...I'm afraid I won't speak for him. Sorry.
I can tell you this, though... It was partly because of me.

kyra

How so?
Ah, sorry. I'm starting to pry, aren't I...

hestia

I don't mind. We're just getting to know each other better.
I might tell you the whole thing some other time, but for now...
Suffice to say, I changed. It was a... big change.
It made him reconsider a few things, when he found out.

kyra

That's rather vague. And ominous.

hestia

(smiles) But enough about me. Now it's my turn to be nosy.
So, do you like boys or girls?

(Kyra starts.)

kyra

W-What kind of a first question is that?!
I've never really... had the time, you know.
I never really cared when I was growing up.
And just when I was starting to get there, Mom and Dad died.
Ever since I've just taken care of Elias and protected Percote.

hestia

I see... Shame.
(smiles) Well, if you figure it out, I want to be the first to know, all right?

kyra

(smiling) ...Y-Yeah. Sure.

Tiresias

tiresias

Mm... That's not quite... So then, this... Hmm...

kyra

Tiresias.

(Tiresias startles.)

tiresias

Gahh!
Ah, do forgive me, Kyra. I didn't know you were there.

kyra

I-I apologize... I forgot...

tiresias

(smiles) No harm done. It takes time to adapt, I know.
What was it that you wished to speak with me about?

kyra

I'm wondering about what you're doing.
Just curiosity, that's all.

tiresias

(grins) You should be wary. A heretic's secrets can be quite terrifying.

kyra

Oh, please. Apate's terrifying. You're a cinnamon roll.

tiresias

I won't argue with you there. That woman unnerves me.
I have tried conversing with her, you know.
I figured we might have common ground, given our... predispositions.
I didn't need sight to tell she was glaring a hole through my skull.

kyra

That's Apate, all right. Don't take it personally.
You know how parents tell their kids to stop scowling,
or their face will stay that way? There's the living example.

tiresias

Ahahahaha! Don't let her hear you said that, Kyra!
She'd do the lifewringing with her bare hands!

kyra

I can believe that.
So, about that research of yours... Do you mind?

tiresias

Not at all, though I would advise against trying to read my tomes.
Not because there's anything particularly private in them,
they're just not books written to be read with the eyes, you understand.

kyra

Well, why don't you tell me, then?

tiresias

Have you heard of the forbidden magics?

kyra

The magic arts of the lifewringers?
Everyone's got some vague idea of them.
If only that the theocracy says it's very bad stuff.

tiresias

I have been attempting to rescue the reviled arts from the clutches of time.

kyra

Oh, wow... No wonder you had to escape Tartaros.
That's definitely not something they'd allow.

tiresias

You said it. Alas, curiosity doth kill the cat.
(smiles) On the other hand, leaving led me to Wulfric.
And now, to you. So I'd say it all turned out well.

kyra

(smiles) ...Goodness, your optimism is something else. You're just such a breath of fresh air!
After Apate, it's nice to know a so-called heretic that's just a pleasant fellow.

tiresias

I'll take that as a compliment, but let me just say...
Being a heretic is not where a heretic begins and ends.
I could tell from our short chats that Apate is a haunted soul.
I don't know what happened to her... But she has suffered. Greatly.

kyra

...You're right, yeah.
Thanks for the pearl of wisdom, Tiresias.

tiresias

(smiles) Any time, my friend. Any time.

Alonso & Teresa

If Teresa is alive

alonso

Prithee, accept my humblest gratitude, brave peer!
Aye, for you have granted me the gift of purpose.
I, Sir Quijano, shalt lay down my very life for your cause!

kyra

Er... Thanks?

teresa

Just play along...

alonso

By my honor and my title as knight, I swear!
Thine quest shalt to the happiest of ends arrive!
Victory we shall seduce, that the Mother may safekeep us,
and our foes condemn to the deepest pits of oblivion eternal!
May our spirits be true and our hearts unyielding!
Alas, I must beg for thy leave. Lethargy threatens to weaken!
Ideal are these moments of torpor, to train thine body and soul!
Hie! To the training grounds we travel!

(Alonso bounces with excitement and runs off.)

kyra

...I'm gonna take a guess that he's always like this.

teresa

What gave it away?

kyra

You, on the other hand, seem decently sane.
Mind if I ask what exactly is the deal with you two?

(Teresa moves closer.)

teresa

My lord Alonso, he's a noble of a territory far to the north.
He used to not be like this, but his mind has been destroyed.

kyra

Something terrible must've happened to him...

teresa

Boredom.
He was really bored. He started reading these books...
He hated them. Hated them so much he set them on fire.
So he started writing. First poems, then novels, and finally, plays.
He got really into the plays. He even started to rehearse them himself.
He'd go through the whole thing as one character, then again with another.
And he'd just do that for hours upon hours upon hours, until now...

kyra

He fancies himself a character in one of his own plays?

teresa

Something to that effect, I guess.
But I can assure you that he's not a bad person.
He's even kinda strong. We could be of help.

kyra

But you don't even know what we're up to.
Well, he says he does, but I can only wonder what his idea of our “quest” is...

teresa

If you were evil folks, you would've mugged us and left us to die in the forest.
You had the numbers and the opportunity. No, you oughta be good people.

kyra

Glad to have your vote of confidence, er...

teresa

Teresa's the name. Just a humble sky warrior.

kyra

Humble's got to be right. You could certainly brag if you wanted.
Fighters of the skies are rare. We're lucky to have you with us.

teresa

(grins) Well, aren't you a charmer. Yeah, you know what?
You're right. I'm really frigging awesome.

kyra

...Okay, okay, don't let it go to your head, please...

If Teresa is dead

alonso

Prithee, accept my humblest gratitude, brave peer!
Aye, for you have granted me the gift of purpose.
I, Sir Quijano, shalt lay down my very life for your cause!

kyra

Er... Thanks?

alonso

kyra

That warrior of the skies that was with you...
I spotted her, but then she vanished...

alonso

Fallen, in glorious combat, brave and undaunted.
Yet blame thyself not... 'Tis my burden to bear,
for 'tis I that cast undue peril upon her...

kyra

...I'm really sorry.

alonso

Alas. Sorrow I shalt bear for the rest of my days.
Yet rest must I not! Thy cause is just unlike most!
Beseecheth me to assist, Teresa would have.
Thus I shalt! Sir Quijano is thine ally, fair heroine!
Hie! To the training grounds we travel!

(Alonso runs off.)

kyra

...Damn... The shock of losing his friend must've driven him mad...

Hecate & Kairos

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

kairos

(smiling) Well, well. Blessed be this day.

hecate

What are you on about now?

kairos

The Mother has led me to beauty without compare.
'Tis truly a serendipitous encounter.
I must thank Her, next we find one of Her hallowed shrines.

hecate

(smirks) Do you want me to kick you in your hallowed shrine, preacher?

kairos

Hah! What a response. Threatening harm upon a pilgrim of the Mother!
You are quite the bold sinner, my dear friend.

hecate

You don't know the half of it.
My soul's rotten to the core, little choir boy. You should stay away.
It would shake the foundations of your perfect bright little world.

kairos

Do not presume me so naïve.
I enjoy a little bit of daring darkness to go with the stunning beauty.

hecate

Pfft... And you called me bold.
Is there nothing in your tenets against blatantly flirting with unbelievers?

kairos

Oh, against flirting in general. And I follow it, make no mistake.
I'm not the type that goes around pestering any and all girls in sight.

hecate

So I'm getting special treatment? Guess I should be flattered.

kairos

What can I say. I like playing with fire.

hecate

You're one shoddy priest, you know that?

kairos

Some would say the shoddiest.
I like to believe I have an... unconventional approach, yet no less valid for it.

hecate

Heh... Well, dream on, big boy. I enjoy playing hard to get.
You'll have to do a lot better than that to win me over.

kairos

So cold, so cruel. Have I not piqued your interest even slightly?

hecate

...Very slightly.

kairos

Ahh, fantastic.

[Hecate and Kairos gain C-rank support.]

Eupraxia & Pericles

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

pericles

......

eupraxia

It is rather rude to stare, young man.
Do I have something on my face?
Apart from my spectacles, naturally.

pericles

...I shall assume that you have told nobody.

eupraxia

......
Of course not.

pericles

Hmm...

eupraxia

What comes next? Are you going to throw me into the pond?
It has been so long. I have grown so old. Quite frail, as well.
You could easily best me. My life is yours for the taking.

pericles

Why would you jump to such an absurd conclusion?

eupraxia

I cannot imagine any other intentions you could have.
Blackmail? No, that is asinine. I have nothing you could want.

pericles

My lady, please. It wounds me to hear you speak such words.
I have no desire to see you distressed, much less harmed.
...I merely wished to ascertain my suspicions.

eupraxia

Consider them ascertained. I ask again - What comes next?

pericles

......

eupraxia

......

pericles

I... understand, now.

eupraxia

I see...

pericles

Pardon me. I am being impertinent.
I shall take my leave now and bother you no more.
This I vow to you.

eupraxia

Please, there is no need. I am simply surprised.
I had dreaded the moment this eventuality would come to pass.
And yet, this is... entirely unlike how I had anticipated it to transpire.

pericles

Much has changed, Lady Eupraxia.

eupraxia

Yet at the same time, so little has.
But that is why we are here... Is it not?

pericles

Indeed...

Elias & Edward

edward

Okay, Kyra. Let's be serious now.
Do you think that necromancer guy can actually revive the dead?

kyra

Apate seems to be against the whole concept.
I'd consider her an authority on these matters, but...
It almost seems like it could be real? I don't know.
At this point anything's possible.

edward

He didn't exactly look like the pinnacle of genius, that guy.
And I'd think it'd take some serious genius to cheat death.
But who knows. Like you said, anything's possible.
People just assume it can't be done. Maybe it's actually really easy.

kyra

I don't know what's going to happen, but I can tell you one thing.
If that clown is the one who has beaten death, life is a bad joke.

(Edward laughs.)

edward

(smiles) Hah! I do have to agree with you there!

elias

Hey... Kyra?

kyra

Yeah, Elias?

elias

Do you think that man... could bring back our parents?

(Kyra starts.)

kyra

W-Whoa... I hadn't even considered that...

edward

...I don't think you should get your hopes up, Eli.

elias

I know. I won't, don't worry.
I don't know why I said that. I'm sorry.

edward

Nah, it was a reasonable thing to say.
Er, reasonable in this context, anyway.
You really miss 'em, don't ya?
...Bah, what a stupid thing to ask. 'Course you do.
Damn, I still miss my ma, and she died 14 years ago!

elias

Oh... Sorry... I didn't mean to remind you...

edward

It was just a regular, peaceful death.
She lived her life. Don't worry about it.

kyra

...Unlike our parents.

edward

O-Oh, but there's no need to talk about this topic, guys.

elias

Actually, we never did tell you how they died, did we?

edward

Oi! What did I just say? How's it any of my business?
There's a reason I've never asked, kids.

kyra

Some stupid traveling merchant had one too many at the alehouse.
He went to leave and whipped his horse so hard, the poor thing panicked.
Threw him into a trough and took off running like its life depended on it.
...Our parents were walking back home. It was just a dumb accident...

elias

It was my fault, too.

kyra

Elias! How many times must I tell you that's not true?

edward

I find that hard to believe, Eli...

(Elias becomes agitated.)

elias

I was the reason they were out that evening!
They went to talk to the town's apothecary about me.
If I was never... I-If I never got sick, they wouldn't have...

edward

Elias, this really should go without saying,
but you can't blame yourself for some jerk having no restraint.
C'mon, a boy your age shouldn't have that kind of regrets.

elias

I know all of that. I keep telling myself, over and over.
I just... feel like such a burden.
Our parents died because they left the house for me.
You risked your life to get me out of that prison.
And don't even get me started on all Kyra's been through for my sake.
Everyone's always suffering because I'm here!
And for what?! We all know that I'm just going to d--

kyra

Elias!!

elias

......

kyra

......

edward

...A-Ahem... Er, so...

elias

I-I...
Can I be alone for just a moment? Please...

(Elias leaves.)

edward

Dammit... Dammit! What have I done?!

kyra

Don't you start too. It's not your fault.
All this is clearly taking a toll on him...
Blast! I need to stop dragging him across the countryside.

edward

Probably got the right of it there. Hmmm...

Chapter 11 Hestia

hestia

Kyra! Come over here! Quick! It's very important!

kyra

What is it?

hestia

(grins) Well? What do you think?

kyra

You're making a pose. Very nice.
If you're hoping I'll draw you, though, you'll be sorely disappointed.
My brother draws a bit, but me? Not a chance.

hestia

Just look at me. Don't I look positively dashing holding this baby?

kyra

You look like you could cut a couple heads off with it, at least.

hestia

That's because I could.
I did it, Kyra... I forged a brave axe.

(Kyra starts.)

kyra

Wait, seriously? Sheesh, is there anything you can't make?

hestia

(grins) If there is, it's 'cause they haven't invented it yet.
You know what's special about these things, right?

kyra

They say anyone holding it fights with twice the courage.
That's why they call them brave. How does it actually work, though?

hestia

Didn't anyone ever tell you never to ask a magician what the trick is?
I can't tell you that. It'd ruin the mystique.

kyra

...Awww, but I wanted to know...

hestia

(smiles) Pffft! Okay, okay, I'll tell you, but stop trying to make puppy dog eyes.
You're terrible at it.

kyra

Spill the beans, then.

hestia

Well, to keep it short, it's the handle.
It's made to be sturdy, but also very light, see?
The sharp part carries all the momentum,
and you feel like you're just swinging your arms.

kyra

Sounds... simple.

hestia

Hard part's making sure to strike the perfect middle ground.
Otherwise the thing breaks or weighs too much to achieve that effect.

kyra

(smiles) Score another win for the genius blacksmith, then.

hestia

Aww, shush. Just take it and give it to someone you trust!

Raleigh, Fango, & López

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

raleigh

......

fango

Why the dour face, Raleigh? Somethin' wrong?

raleigh

...What's it to you, cutthroat?
If you don't like my face, that's too bad.
You don't have any storerooms in which to lock me up this time.

López

Aw, c'mon. Don't tell me you're still sour over what happened.
It's been ages!

raleigh

It barely happened a couple of weeks back.

López

Yet it feels like a lifetime ago, don't it?

fango

Yeah... So much has happened since then.
I had a gut feeling when we picked you up, y'know.
I said to myself, “Fango, things are going to change soon.”

raleigh

No, you didn't.

fango

...Okay, maybe I didn't say it, but I thought it!
And look! I was right!

López

I don't think you thought it either...

(Fango shifts awkwardly.)

fango

Oh, c'mon! Lemme have this! I don't got nothin'!

López

(smiles) You got a friend. Ain't that enough?

fango

Aww, López... Yeah, that's right. I got a friend.
And a friend is more valuable than all the gold in the world!

López

Absolutely.

fango

No doubt.

López

(serious) I'd still like to have all the gold in the world, though.

fango

Definitely.

raleigh

I think I've heard enough. Good day to you.

fango

C'mon, don't you want a friend too? Friends are so nice.
(smiles) We could be friends! We just gotta put the past bygones!

López

Something along those lines, yeah.

raleigh

Why would I want to be-- ...Oh, for the love of...

fango

So, why are you lookin' so down, anyway?
It's not López's stench, is it?

López

Listen here, friend--

raleigh

No, this is just... not the homecoming I had expected.

fango

Ohhh, right, you were a member of one of Glamorgan's knight orders...

raleigh

The knights Lazurite, to be precise.
...That's the Flintshire knights, which is this region.

López

You don't say. C'mon, we ain't that dumb. We keep up!

raleigh

Pardon me for underestimating you, esteemed gentlemen.

fango

So what, you from a proud lineage of knights or somethin'?

raleigh

Not at all. My father's a merchant.
He wanted me to inherit the family business, but I wanted more.
So I joined the knights in search of glorious adventure.
Pfeh. So much for that. Look at me now.
Befriending thugs, returning a deserter, bearing arms against my homeland...
I am a disgrace.

López

Well, at least you have a lovin' dad. Might even see him again while we're here.
Mine robbed travelers on the highway, got drunk and came back home to beat me.
Until he picked the wrong target and got his gut ripped open.

fango

Dads, huh. Never knew mine. My mother died giving birth to me, too.
Had to fend for myself from a ripe young age.

raleigh

......
If you're fishing for sympathy, you should try harder.

fango

Not really what I'm tryna do. That's just how things are.

López

Ain't that right.

raleigh

...Hmph...

[Fango & López gain C-rank support with Raleigh.]

Pluto & Nikolaos

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

nikolaos

Whew... Man, when I joined up, nobody said I'd have to shovel snow.
At least the camp's set up now. Time for a break. I could sleep for years.
...Maybe I should ask for a leave of absence...

pluto

...!

(Nikolaos jumps.)

nikolaos

Whoa! Who are you? A spy?!
(smiles) All right, no worries. We can make this work.
Leave a purse of coins right about here, and I saw nothing.

pluto

......

nikolaos

Ooooookay, so you're not a spy. You're just one of our resident weirdos.
These guys'll grab anyone so long as they're willing to fight, won't they?
Then again, I guess that's how I landed this gig, myself.

pluto

......

nikolaos

...Soooo... What's cooking?

pluto

......

nikolaos

......

pluto

......

nikolaos

......

pluto

My brother. He is the greatest swordsman in the land.

nikolaos

......
Sorry, what? I zoned out for a bit there...

pluto

One day, we will cross blades. Our clash is inevitable.
It is our fate. We are both tainted forever...

nikolaos

Geez, what'd your brother do to you?
I got eight siblings and I couldn't imagine wanting to pick a fight with any of them.
...Partly because they're all way tougher than I am.
(narrows eyes) Even little Cora. I don't know where that kid gets her muscle...

pluto

I must surpass my brother, that I may strike him down.
You must leave me, for I am beyond redemption...

nikolaos

......

pluto

......

nikolaos

(smiles) Wow. You're so cool. How do you do it?

(Pluto shifts bashfully.)

pluto

(smiles) A-Am I? I mean...

(serious) ......

nikolaos

Hold on, let me try that. (closes eyes)

......

pluto

......

nikolaos

......
(opens eyes, smiles) Well, that was fun! Think I'll leave you to it now.
Really could use a nap. Was nice meetin' you!

(Nikolaos leaves. There is a long pause.)

pluto

...Phooey... I thought he'd never leave...
He didn't even finish shovelling the snow... But that's fine.
This is my corner. I don't mind shovelling snow out of my corner...

[Nikolaos and Pluto gain C-rank support.]

Wulfric & Tiresias

If Wulfric is alive

wulfric

(smiling) Remember that...?

tiresias

Ahahaha... Oh, you...

(Kyra stumbles across them.)

kyra

Hello-- Oh, sorry...

wulfric

(serious) Worry not! We were not doing anything!

tiresias

(smiling) Nothing at all. Just watching the stars together.

wulfric

...At daytime, Tiresias?

tiresias

I think you're missing the more obvious problem, Wulfric, my dear.

(Kyra shifts awkwardly.)

kyra

I didn't mean to, er, interrupt.

tiresias

(smiles) Well, interrupt you did, and now you shall suffer a heretic's wrath.
Just as soon as I figure out where you're standing.

wulfric

Come now, Tiresias, spare her.
This is her camp, after all.

kyra

Well, uh... I'll just... step that way, and uh...

tiresias

(serious) Hey, since you're here.
I can tell by the lowering temperature that we're getting closer to Flintshire.

kyra

That we are. Why?

tiresias

(smiles) This unyielding cold holds warm memories for the two of us.
Does it not, Wulfric?

wulfric

(smiles) Yes... It truly does.

kyra

I thought you met in the Tartaran border.

wulfric

That we did, but it was in Flintshire that we, uh...

tiresias

Spoke of the intricacies of our ongoing relationship, as it were.

wulfric

That's one way to put it...

tiresias

Pfft... Wulfric, please.

kyra

Right, I get it...
Well, I don't wanna pry, but you brought it up, so...
How'd that happen?

tiresias

Oh, it wasn't anything all that special, truly.
We had been traveling around for a few months.
We stopped at an inn. We played chess to pass the time.

wulfric

I can never beat him at chess. It's positively infuriating.

tiresias

He has better luck with cards. Since I can't see them.
Anyway, I proposed that, if I won our next match,
he would have to bare his heart to me.
In retrospect, his hurried agreement said it all.

wulfric

I hadn't had any doubts for some time by that point.
I only feared that it would be you that did not deem me worthy.

tiresias

Seriously? You're my literal knight in shining armor.
What kind of damsel in distress would I be if I gave you the cold shoulder?

wulfric

Damsel in distress? You're the stronger of us by far, Tiresias!

kyra

(smiles) ...I'm happy for you both.

[Wulfric gains 1 Speed.]

If Wulfric is dead

tiresias

......

kyra

Hello-- Oh, Tiresias!
What are you doing out here on your own?
If you're not careful, you'll end up falling into the pond...

tiresias

Forgive me. It's just...
I can tell by the lowering temperature that we're getting closer to Flintshire.

kyra

That we are. Why?

tiresias

This unyielding cold brings back some memories.
Memories that were once so warm, ironically.
Yet now they ring awfully bittersweet...

kyra

Memories? Oh, memories of...

tiresias

Wulfric. We met in the Tartaran border, but here is where we...
Well, made it official.

kyra

I see...

tiresias

It wasn't anything all that special.
We had been traveling around for a few months.
We stopped at an inn. We played chess to pass the time.
He could never beat me at chess, the poor fool.
Anyway, I proposed that, if I won our next match,
he would have to bare his heart to me.
In retrospect, his hurried agreement said it all.

kyra

......

tiresias

Kyra? Are you still there?

kyra

I'm just... I don't have the words. I'm so, so sorry...

tiresias

I don't want you to be sorry, Kyra. I want you never to forget.
Wulfric gave his life for you.
For me, too. He was ensuring that I had a place here, with you all.

kyra

Don't worry, Tiresias. I'm not going to kick you out.
I would be spitting on his memory if I did.

tiresias

I never questioned that. You're a good person, Kyra.
I just... want you to win this. He deserves that much.

kyra

His sacrifice won't be in vain. Count on it.

tiresias

Good...
Sorry. Like I said, this place evokes memories.
I'll be back in the groove soon enough.
Just need to... get this out of my system.
Would you give me some time? Don't worry, I'll be fine.
I'll just stay put. I can't go falling into some pit now.
That, too, would be spitting on his memory.

kyra

......

Ofelia & Polonius

If Polonius was recruited

polonius

(grinning) Eeheeheeheeheehee! You would seek my wisdom?
You're wise. I am, after all, the wisest among men!

kyra

Can you tell him to cut it out before someone punches his lights out?

ofelia

He can't stop. He's still method acting.

kyra

What's that supposed to mean?

ofelia

He's fully immersed himself in his role.
He is, for all intents and purposes, a necromancer.

kyra

So... Is he much different when he's not acting?

ofelia

Well, he doesn't laugh like that. His usual cackle is more like...
Ahem, “wahahahahaha!”

polonius

Once more you prove your acting mettle, sister dearest!

ofelia

Please. You're a simple character, brother mine.
Hardly a challenge for a performer of my stature.

polonius

You dare belittle me! I, Polonius, the great necromancer!
Mere mortals cannot grasp the fine intricacies of my enigmatic mind!

kyra

That I can believe.
Anyway, just wanted to make sure you two are getting settled in.

ofelia

I've slept in barns more luxurious than this.
But I've also seen more derelict cesspools, so I guess that's something.

kyra

Gee, sorry we can't provide a palace on the go for you, Your Highness.

(Polonius laughs.)

polonius

(grins) Oho! Your silver tongue may have met her golden match!
Shall you take this lying down, Ofelia?!

ofelia

She may have this round. I do not expect she is accustomed to winning.

kyra

...Okay, you know what, actually? I think I'll talk to him.
Mr. Necromancer or whatever, I have a question!

polonius

And I shall respond, to the very best of my boundless ability!

kyra

Be straight with me. You teleported.

polonius

Verily?

kyra

...How?

ofelia

I already told you, it was a trick.
Can your memory truly be so short, or do you just not listen?

kyra

Why don't you go pester Hestia about her pigtails or something?

ofelia

Hmph! Base barbarian.

(Ofelia leaves.)

polonius

(grins) Eeheeheeheeheehee! Another devastating blow!
Golden does not measure up; yours is a diamond tongue!

kyra

Don't change the subject! You teleported!

polonius

I did. Alas, I cannot reveal the nature of my designs.
Your feeble mind would shatter upon such ghastly revelations!

(Kyra becomes agitated.)

kyra

Tell me the truth, dammit! We'd have so much use for such a trick!
Even Apate couldn't believe her eyes! And that one's not easily fazed!

polonius

Of course. She is but a mortal, after all.
I, on the other hand, am the Father to the Mother!

kyra

......
I think I'm going to stop talking to you now. My head hurts.

polonius

Ah, a fellow sufferer of migraines, eh? My heart goes out to you, friend.
Apply this poultice to your forehead. Perhaps it shall help.
And with that, the great Polonius takes his leave with grace!
Huzzah!

(Polonius leaves.)

kyra

...??

If Polonius was not recruited

ofelia

Oh, hello. Did you want something?

kyra

Just wanted to make sure you are getting settled in.

ofelia

I've slept in barns more luxurious than this.
But I've also seen more derelict cesspools, so I guess that's something.

kyra

Gee, sorry we can't provide a palace on the go for you, Your Highness.

ofelia

It will do. Don't worry yourself sick over me.

kyra

Count on it.
So... Where's your brother now, if I might ask?

ofelia

Off somewhere no one can see him, crying it all out.
He's too prideful to show it, but he's distraught over what happened.

kyra

Oh...

ofelia

But enough about that.
Like I told you, I don't blame you for what you did.
My brother's stronger than he looks. He'll be fine.

kyra

......

ofelia

You have more to say.

kyra

Be straight with me here.
Your brother. He teleported.
...How?

ofelia

I already told you, it was a trick.
Can your memory truly be so short, or do you just not listen?

kyra

...Did you seriously just say that to me...?

ofelia

What other conclusion could I derive from such a boneheaded question?

kyra

......
But... He teleported! We all saw it with our own eyes!
Tell me the truth, dammit! We'd have so much use for such a trick!
Even Apate couldn't believe her eyes! And that one's not easily fazed!

ofelia

It's just a trick. It has no deeper meaning or practical application.
That won't change no matter how many annoying questions you ask.

kyra

......
I think I'm going to stop talking to you now. My head hurts.

ofelia

Everyone's a critic.
If you'll excuse me, then, I must get ready for the journey ahead.
I must look my best if I am to perform on such drab stages...

(Ofelia leaves.)

kyra

...??

Phobos

phobos

K-Kyra! What's this I'm hearing about Pheme?
No one seems to know any specifics, but...
They say she's dead!

kyra

It's true...

phobos

...Oh, no...
Kyra, I... I'm so sorry. I know you two were close...

kyra

......
Can we... not talk about this right now?
I have other things I must focus on...
I'm trying to keep my mind away from what happened.

phobos

But...

kyra

I appreciate it, Phobos. This is thoughtful of you.
But... The truth is, most of the people with us didn't know her.
Even those from Percote didn't really know her.
Heck, you didn't really know her, did you, Phobos?

phobos

......
Well... Everyone in town knew how she was. She was nice, but...
No one wanted to be the subject of the next gossip she'd spread.
So... We all tried to stay away from her, where we could.
(closes eyes) Now I... I wish I'd gotten to know her better, before...

kyra

...What I'm trying to say, Phobos, is this.
Everyone seems to have made a leader out of me, for some reason.

phobos

Well, why not? You're good at leading, and you brought us all together.

kyra

Yeah, well... It's precisely because of that, I can't dwell on this.
If I lie down and cry now, we risk all of this falling apart.
That's not how we do right by Pheme.
We have to finish what we started. We have to take Tartaros down.
And... We have to find the one who did that to her...

......

phobos

I just want you to know, if you want to talk, or need help, or anything...

kyra

Phobos... You...

phobos

...?

kyra

...N-Never mind. It's nothing.
See you around, Phobos...

(Kyra leaves.)

phobos

...Kyra...?

Chapter 12 Hestia

hestia

Kyra... I have made a decision.

kyra

Next project?

hestia

Not exactly.
See, I kind of feel bad about the current arrangement.

kyra

You're going to raise the prices on me?
I guess that's fair. The economy and all...

hestia

(smiles) Pfft! C'mon, Kyra, really?
You don't know the first thing about the economy.

kyra

Gee, so sorry, Miss Bigshot Capital Craftswoman.
They don't teach that in stinky commoner schools.

hestia

Honestly, you're better off. None of it makes a lick of sense.
...Wait, why are we talking about this? That's not it at all!

kyra

Oh. I assumed, when you said “arrangement...”

hestia

I mean this little routine we have.
Of you coming here, us having a nice chat, and then...
Well, you go risk your neck out there with everyone else.
Meanwhile I just sit here and have fun with my little projects.

kyra

You provide a valuable service, Hestia.

hestia

Perhaps, but still. These muscles aren't just good for hammering metal, you know.

kyra

What are you saying? Strength isn't everything. You aren't a fighter...
Are you?

hestia

(smiles) Heh... Haven't you learned by now that I'm a bag of surprises?
Peri taught me how to use axes as well as craft them back in the day.
Mostly it was just a way to spend time together, but it was still serious.

kyra

Hestia, I don't think I want to risk our blacksmith on the battlefield.
You're more valuable here, I'm sorry to say.

hestia

I get that. Don't worry. I'll be extremely careful.
If things look bad, I'll run for the hills and stick to the camp.
But until then, why don't you have some faith in me?
Allow me to stand in the face of danger by your side.

kyra

Well... Fine. But don't you go giving me cause for worry now, you hear?

hestia

(grins) Worry more about your enemies. It's about to get rough for 'em.

[Kyra and Hestia gain C-rank support.]

Tiresias

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

tiresias

I must say, I am surprised.
I don't meet many who know the language of the blind.
At least, among those who do not themselves know a blind person.

apate

...There are not many disciplines I am not at least acquainted with.

tiresias

Verily... So, what are your thoughts, my lady?
I'm close. I can feel it. This tome, it's every bit a light tome of old.
But... It doesn't work. I don't understand why it won't.
The incantations are accurate to the documents I've studied.
I am attuned to the energies, and I train my connection every day.

apate

None of that is the problem, Tiresias.

tiresias

What is, then?

apate

......
You are venturing where nobody has ventured in centuries.
I feel compelled to advise you to stop here.

tiresias

(smiles) Ahh, don't worry about me. It'd be a pointless waste of time.
I cannot contain my reckless curiosity. It is a veritable curse.
(serious) ...Besides, all I have learned indicates it is simply another kind of magic.
Hardly a secret worth keeping. I know not why the theocracy hates it so much.
Or you, for that matter...

apate

You believe yourself to be so bright, do you not?
The brightest thing you could do is forget all about this.
It will only bring you grief, in the end.

tiresias

Like it has you?

apate

......

tiresias

...Well, I won't pry, but I don't believe you'll be able to make me quit, either.
Your assistance would speed the process up, but I'll figure it out regardless.

apate

Why? Why are you so interested in magic reviled by the Mother Herself?

tiresias

That's got to be the first time you've invoked Her name.
For as good a liar as you are, Lady Apate, that was pitiful.
No, not pitiful... Desperate.

apate

......
Very well. I shall assist you.

tiresias

(smiles) Truly? Ah, thank you, Lady Apate! You have my eternal gratitude.

(Apate moves closer.)

apate

Let me make one thing perfectly clear, however.
I agree to this only because we could use this power in our quest.

tiresias

I don't mind. I hadn't expected you to do it out of the goodness of your heart.

apate

I am not finished.
Should I decide that your studies carry you too far...
I will kill you on the spot.

(Tiresias starts.)

tiresias

What?!

apate

Killing a fool like you would be easy even without your affliction.
With it? All I have to do is claim you lost your way...

tiresias

It's... It's incomprehensible.
What dark secret could hide in this innocuous school of magic, Apate?!

apate

May you never find out.
Now, let me repair your conduits.

tiresias

...I...

(Apate moves back.)

apate

Or are you suddenly too afraid to see your research through?

tiresias

......
I may have soiled my trousers there, 'tis true.
But that is only more reason I must walk this path to its end.
...I am ready.

apate

Let us commence.

Eupraxia & Agari

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

eupraxia

Ah, you must be... Sir Pericles's daughter.

agari

(smiles) Hi there! Call me Agari. That's what everyone calls me.

eupraxia

Hmm... Might I inquire as to where you're going?

agari

Just gonna go out for a quick ride.
See some snow in peace while we have some free time.

eupraxia

Is it not time for prayer?

agari

(frowns) ...Oh, no, not another one...
What, did my dad tell you to make sure I keep up my daily prayer?
Can we not do this right now? C'mon, have a heart...

eupraxia

You have it wrong. I do not mean to force you.
It is simply surprising behavior of a holy knight, that is all.
But I'm sure you've heard that before...

agari

(smiles) Oh, great! In that case, I think I'll be going...

eupraxia

......

agari

You've got more to say, don't you.

eupraxia

I... knew your father, before.
Standing here, brought together by a common cause against Tartaros...
It is something neither he nor I could have ever expected.

agari

Is that right... Where do you know my dad from?

eupraxia

Tell me something, Agari.
Are you here for his sake alone, or do you believe in our cause?

agari

(smiles) I'm definitely happier here than I ever was in the inquisition.
Everyone's nice, and we don't have to pursue innocents just because some ugly said they're bad people.
(frowns) It's made me realize even more just how wrong the inquisition is.

eupraxia

You speak truth.
The church as an institution is rotten to the core.
If we must destroy it to rebuild it anew...
So be it. I will contribute my magic to that purpose.

agari

Huh... Well, however you met my dad, I can tell you're two peas in a pod.

eupraxia

Sigh... Pardon me. Your father reminds me of the past.
But I shouldn't equate you to him. You're your own person.
(smiles) A quite pleasant and cheerful one at that, I can see.

agari

Well... I try to keep my spirits up.
It's difficult sometimes, I won't lie, but...
I tried hating, once. I really, really tried to hate my father.
For never being home. For not caring about us, apparently.
For not being there when... when Mom...

eupraxia

Please, you do not have to share this with me.

agari

It's okay. I can tell I can trust you.

eupraxia

......

agari

...What I'm trying to say is, I wanted to hate him.
But I only managed to feel worse.
So I decided I didn't want to hate anyone anymore.

We don't always get along, but things are better now.
It did help that Dad... Well, I misjudged him.

eupraxia

And yet not many would so readily forgive, Agari.
You are wise beyond your years.
Hatred begets only hatred. There is no point to it.
It is a truth many fail to learn in their lifetimes.

agari

...You sound like you speak from experience.

eupraxia

I have hated enough that I am now numb to the feeling.

agari

O-Oh.

eupraxia

But let's not speak of such undesirable topics.
(smiles) Would you mind an old lady's company during your ride?
I would enjoy to take in the sights of this gelid landscape.

agari

Sure! Hop on!
(frowns) ...Oh, but I'm dumb. I haven't asked you your name yet!

eupraxia

Eupraxia.

agari

(smiles) I'm Agari! Oh, I did tell you that, didn't I?

eupraxia

(smiles) Hoho, you did, my girl.
Do you intend on stopping for a spell? I can bring my tea set.

agari

Aw, yeah! That'd be lovely. Thanks so much, Lady Eupraxia!

[Agari and Eupraxia gain C-rank support with each other.]

Glaucus & Órlaith

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

glaucus

Yaaaaaaaaawn...
(smiles) Man, I'm pooped... It's starting to be too much, heh.

Órlaith

......

glaucus

Oh, howdy there. Didn't see you approach.

Órlaith

Heya.

glaucus

...Right... So...
I don't remember you from when I joined up.
You a new addition to our merry band?

Órlaith

I'm Órlaith. I'm one of Wrexham's knights.

glaucus

(smiles) Oh, I see... One of them prim and proper knight types, huh.
You certainly look totally unfazed.

Órlaith

...Should I be fazed? By what?

glaucus

Well, you know... Everything that's going on!
I was sure after we left Tartaros, things would slow down.
If this whole “rebellion” business didn't fizzle out on its own,
I thought we'd at least take it one step at a time.
Two days later and we're fighting assassins, mercenaries, monsters...
And then without missing a beat, we declare war on a margravate!
Heck, YOUR liege was kidnapped, and you wonder why you should be fazed?

Órlaith

Okay? I was here too, you know. I remember all of that.
If you're so tired, why don't you just call it quits, anyway?

glaucus

Wait, you're telling me to desert? Just like that...?

Órlaith

I mean, you've already done it once.
Don't you think I know what that crest is?
We don't need dispirited old layabouts here.

(Glaucus flinches.)

glaucus

(smiles) Yeowch! Scathing! Hahaha... Got me good there, Órls!
(serious) Nah, but see, I can't do that. Betraying the inquisition was easy.
Betraying these guys? That'd sting in my conscience, I'm sure of it.

Órlaith

So you're with them because... You believe in their cause?

glaucus

Well, why are you?
Good soldiers follow orders? Or is there more to you?

Órlaith

......
The other way around.
I follow orders because I believe the people I serve are good.
They will not give me an order that contradicts my moral compass.
If they did... I wouldn't follow it.

glaucus

(smiles) And just like you, I too have a moral compass of my own.
Sure, sometimes I don't listen to it as much as I should,
but I'd like to think I have a heart in there somewhere.
I may have joined these guys out of convenience...
But I like them too much to run off on them.
(serious) At least, without asking nicely first, heh...

Órlaith

(smiles) You surprise me. You're not as bad as you look.

glaucus

Please, I know I'm a bit of a mess, but c'mon.
Don't judge a book by its cover, y'know?

Órlaith

Yeah, you're right. My bad.
Sorry I called you those mean things before.

glaucus

Ahh, it's not like you were wrong, either. I'm kind of a layabout.
But... I'm not too old, actually. I just started going gray young.
Bad genes. My dad was the same way...

Órlaith

Oh, huh...
Well, for what it's worth, you'd make it work if you'd just shave.
Or commit to the beard. Something. Just please, fix the stubble.

glaucus

Haha... I'll take your advice when you get your hair under control.

Órlaith

Heeey... I happen to like the “wild locks” style.

glaucus

Hehe...

[Glaucus & Órlaith gain C-rank support with each other.]

Vasiliki & Fiadh

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

fiadh

And just who the heck are you supposed to be?

(Vasiliki startles.)

vasiliki

A-Ah! Vasiliki, Sir!
One of the mercenaries hired by the commander, Sir!

fiadh

...Relax. Who do you take me for? I'm no “Sir.”
Just Fiadh will do.

vasiliki

(smiles) Oh, okay!

fiadh

So, a merc, huh.
Awfully young to be killing people for money, don't you think?

vasiliki

Yeah... The job's pretty hard, I won't deny it.
But I'm pretty clumsy, and I was no good at school either.
Pretty much all I'm... decent at is pulling bowstrings.
Er, “decent” is a big, big overstatement.
Honestly, I don't know why the commander even--

...Sorry. I didn't mean to rant at you.

fiadh

Why's a fish out of water like you doing this?

vasiliki

W-Well, it's my parents.
They're poor, and old, and...
My pa can't even walk very much at all.

fiadh

Ah, I get it. Got people to take care of.
That's a heavy burden to have, especially at your age.

vasiliki

......

fiadh

Your skills aren't too bad. You're just inexperienced.

vasiliki

Don't say that just to make me feel better...

fiadh

What, is it wrong now to feel better?
No, but I'm serious. You have potential.
You just need more confidence.

vasiliki

(smiles) Pfft-- Give me a break! Confidence, me?
I acknowledge my weaknesses. My many, many weaknesses.
I'm a realist, you see.

fiadh

Sigh... All right, want me to teach you a few tricks?

vasiliki

Wha-- For real?!

fiadh

(smiles) That's the real difference between rookies and veterans.
The tricks they've picked up along the way.

vasiliki

(smiles) I'd be so thankful!
Thank you, Fiadh! You're so nice!

fiadh

Nice, me? Hah! That's a new one...
(serious) All right. First off, hold your bow like this...

[Fiadh and Vasiliki gain C-rank support with each other.]
[Vasiliki gains 1 Skill.]

Fructuoso & Begoña

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

Begoña

Hey! You there!

(Fructuoso startles.)

fructuoso

Gah! I-I'm not doing anything!

Begoña

No one's sayin' you are...

fructuoso

True that... Hey, hold up...
You're a brigand too, aren't you?
I-I didn't think there'd be more around here....

Begoña

I ain't a brigand no more. Get it right!

fructuoso

Well, neither am I.

Begoña

Yeah, could've told ya that myself.
Real brigands got a look in their eye.
I should know. I've had it too.
That look o' careless greed... You don't got it.

fructuoso

Well, I dunno about before, but right now, you seem like a pretty decent gal yourself.

Begoña

Meh... I wonder 'bout that.
I'm just tryin' to do the right thing.
It feels nice. Better than crime, that's for sure.

fructuoso

I'm a little envious. You seem to have it all figured out.
Some days I feel like I'm just stumbling through life...

Begoña

C'mon, it ain't any different for me.
Only weeks ago, I still had the look, y'know.
I've only just now started to figure it all out, as you put it.
Heck, betcha've been outta the brigandin' business longer.

fructuoso

It's... been years.
And in all that time, it feels like I've managed to do nothing.
Still barely making ends meet. Still fighting the... temptation.
Crime was so much easier, even if this feels less rotten...

Begoña

That's not too reassuring...
(smiles) But I know we'll make it to the other side just fine, you and me!
If you ever need any help, just come lookin' for Begoña!

fructuoso

(smiles) Just like that? You're a good person.
I'll remember that name. And you remember mine - Fructuoso!

Begoña

New friend!

[Begoña and Fructuoso gain C-rank support with each other.]

Chapter 13 Hestia

hestia

Kyra... Today I present to you a dilemma.

kyra

...Well?

hestia

Gotta make a pause for dramatic effect.
(closes eyes) ......

kyra

......

hestia

(opens eyes, smiles) All right. Thanks for indulging me.
So! Answer me this, Kyra. But beware!
Your choice may have consequences.

kyra

C'mon, show-off, just come out with it already.

hestia

Lances or axes.
Which do you hate the most?

kyra

(frowns) You realize you're asking an archer, right?

hestia

Choose at random if you must.
Just give me an answer. I'm hopelessly indecisive.
C'mon, I may have a little reward for you if you help me out here.

kyra

I do love rewards. Hmmm...

Lances

hestia

Lances, huh.
Did you know what people commonly refer to as lances aren't lances?
Lances are heavy, long polearms only suitable for use by cavalry.
The more wieldy pointy sticks infantry use are spears.

kyra

Oh. Never knew that.

hestia

But for your sake, I'll bundle them together.
So! Lances it is. I'll get back to you.

Axes

hestia

Axes, huh.
Axes are my favorite, you know? I love the power behind 'em.
But don't worry. I won't take offense about it.
Everyone's entitled to their own opinion.
(narrows eyes) (Even if it's wrong...)

kyra

So, mind telling me what this is all about?

hestia

Why would I spoil the mystery like that?
So! Axes it is. I'll get back to you.

kyra

Can't wait to see what you're scheming this time, Hestia.

hestia

(smiles) I'll try not to disappoint.

Now, as thanks for helping me with my conundrum...
Here you go. A little appetizer.

kyra

Looks a lot like that little hammer you carry everywhere.

hestia

But this one's got more to it than meets the eye.
Tiresias and I worked a little magic on this thing, just as a side project.
Ever felt so attached to a weapon, you wished it'd never break?

kyra

I get that a lot with your gifts, I'll admit.

hestia

(smiles) Heh... You can be a charmer when you want to, you know that?
Anyway, this hammer's enchanted with a certain little sorcery.
Want something to look good as new? Get someone else to hold it for you,
give it a good whack with this, and all your dreams will come true.

kyra

That's... amazing! No catch or anything?

hestia

Bah. They're mostly just a crutch for apprentice blacksmiths.
They are useless for anything other than repairing minor wear and tear.
They're difficult to make, too, and the magic fizzles out after a single use.
No self-respecting smith would be caught dead using one of them.
...But hey. We're fighting a war here. Practicality before pride, eh?
Plus, these are so easy to use, anyone can do it!
So I don't have to do it. Please don't make me do it. It disgusts me.

kyra

(grins) Maybe I'll make you do it. Just for fun.

hestia

Bah... Some people.

Tiresias

tiresias

Kyra... Do we have a stock of alcoholic beverages?

kyra

Alcohol? I didn't think you were a drinker, Tiresias.
...In fact, I still don't.
Nobody who is used to drinking would call it “alcoholic beverages.”

tiresias

I've never dared to drink more than the odd cup, in Wulfric's company.
But... I may need some alcohol in my system to give me courage.

kyra

That sounds a little scary. What's going on, Tiresias?
Is there anything I can do?

tiresias

I'm on the verge of something great.
...Or greatly catastrophic. Could go either way.
You can blame your friend in white for my inner turmoil.

kyra

...Look, Tiresias, whatever it is... We're here for you, got it?
You have no reason to be afraid, least of all of Apate.
Don't let her get to you. That's just how she operates.

tiresias

(smiles) Thanks, Kyra. I appreciate the kind words.
(serious) ...Soon I shall have big news for you.
Let us simply hope I am able to peer into the abyss,
without losing my balance and plummeting down.

kyra

...Are you sure you're all right, Tiresias?

tiresias

We'll see. We'll see.

Delilah & Jane

(Delilah has been imprisoned in the camp storeroom.)

delilah

Dastards! Mongrels! Set me loose!

kyra

I see she's enjoying her new accomodations.
Not quite to your standard of luxury, is it?

delilah

What have I done to deserve this lousy treatment?!
Lest you forgot, I am your ally! A pox on you all! Let me out!

jane

Er, I know I'm in no place to be making requests, but...

kyra

Relax, I'm not going to make her sleep with the supplies the entire journey.
I just want to see her risk life and limb first. Make sure we have her loyalty.

delilah

What manner of blabbering moron do you take me for?
I am many things, but I do not turn away from a beneficial enterprise!

kyra

We'll see about that.

delilah

Hmph... Go on, laugh it up. I shall wait patiently...
Until your life depends on me. And then I shall be the one laughing!

kyra

Now, as for you...

(Jane looks nervous.)

jane

Gulp...!

kyra

Jane, right? You seem like a decent gal. How come you endure her?

jane

Oh, uh, er... Why does anyone endure anyone?

kyra

Um... A multitude of reasons? I don't know, you tell me!
C'mon, you can talk to me. I'm not trying to be a jerk.
What's wrong with a little small talk? I don't bite.

jane

She's filthy rich, so she pays as handsomely as she's...
Well, uh. You know. She's rich.

kyra

Is that all? Gold? You don't seem like the money-grubbing type to me.

jane

I don't, don't I.
Er, maybe she's just... Y'know, very philanthropic! Secretly.
She has a beautiful soul.
A really, really beautiful soul.
Gosh, I'd never seen a soul so pretty in my life...

kyra

......
What are you even talking about anymore?

(Jane shifts awkwardly.)

jane

I-It's embarrassing, okay?! Cut me some slack here...

kyra

Oh, fine. If you're going to be like that, I guess I'll just--

jane

Have you seen her?

kyra

Eh? Well, yeah. Why?

jane

S-She's smoking hot.

kyra

......
What?

jane

Yeah, okay! I know it's dumb, but that's it.
I've had the biggest crush since I met her.
Are you happy now?

kyra

...No?

jane

Well, join the club.

delilah
(offscreen)

...Pfffhahahahaha!
Oh, that was brilliant, girls! An absolute masterpiece!
Go on, go on! Don't be shy! This is just too entertaining!
It beats most comedy plays I've seen! I-I'm tearing up!
Ahahahahahaha!

kyra

Sigh... So much for waiting until my life depended on her.

jane

...Sorry...

Alonso & Polonius

If Polonius is present

kyra

...Huh? What's that racket over there?
That's not how training weapons sound! Is someone fighting for real?!

(Kyra approaches to find Alonso and Polonius are dueling.)

polonius

(grinning) Haha! Fool!

alonso

(scowling) Grrr... Foul fiend! Master of evil among masterful evildoers!
The earth shall bathe in thy blood this day!

polonius

Eeheeheeheeheehee! I am too powerful for the likes of you!
Step forth, hero! Try your best, or die your worst!

kyra
(offscreen)

Cut it out, you two!

(Alonso and Polonius notice Kyra.)

polonius

Hmm? Oh, salutations to you, our valorous headmistress.

alonso

'Tis a blessed day. Far reaches whence thy come, our liege.

kyra

Hello to you too. Mind explaining to me why you're killing each other?

alonso

Lend me thy assistance, O my peer without peer!
The dark sorcerer, Freston, plagues our holy grounds!
He threatens with hexes, and torture of our very souls!

polonius

(grins) Eeheeheeheeheehee! Only a mere fraction of my power, that is!
The tiniest fraction! So small, I can barely even see it!
So vast is my power, you see! Heh heh heh...

kyra

Oh, Mother, the crackpots collide...
You know what? Go ahead, duke it out. Vent some frustration.
But would you mind doing it with wooden weapons?
Apate can probably prevent worse from coming to worst, but nobody wants to see pools of blood around the camp.

polonius

(frowns) But... How will we vanquish each other with wooden weapons?

alonso

Should we strike with strength herculean enough, perchance...

kyra

Dammit, that's the point! I don't want you to kill each other!

(Alonso starts.)

alonso

B-But, he's the foul sorcerer Freston...

(Polonius becomes agitated.)

polonius

He's a worm daring to oppose my reign of terror!

kyra

You're ALLIES. Get it through your thick heads.
Keep it up and you'll go keep Delilah company.
After I put an arrow in each of your knees. Understood?

alonso

(smiles) Aye aye! Stern, yet fair! An inspiration as ever!

polonius

On this we agree, my righteous little pest.
When General Kyra speaks, lions and dragons cower!

alonso

A thundering voice, piercing the very heavens!

polonius

A sight out of the Mother's own nightmares!

kyra

......
(closes eyes) There's the headache again. Urgh...

(Kyra leaves.)

polonius

Hold! Let me bestow upon you one of my miracle remedies!
...Wait! How dare you turn your back to me, the great Polonius?!
Return! Return at once and take my poultices!

(Polonius runs after Kyra.)

alonso

......
(smiles) Ahah! Victory hath been claimed, by righteous knight, Alonso!
Blessed be thy name, Mother. In love and justice's name!

[Alonso gains 1 Strength.]

If Polonius is absent

kyra

...Huh...
You seem oddly, uh... quiet, Alonso.

alonso

Most respected commandant, I bow before thine guile, truly I do.
Wer't up to me, broken this humble quiet'd be, by furious combat!
Alas... Mine blade findeth itself with no opponent with whom to clash.
Even Teresa has departed, blessed be her misguided soul...

If Teresa is alive

kyra

You... do know that she's not dead, right?
She's just over there--

If Teresa is dead

kyra

...Look, if it's about her... Let me just say, I'm--

(Alonso fidgets.)

alonso

In solitude, I cannot find the charge I require to power mine valor!
Requireth I a more faithful friend... Nay.
A rival. A villain! A wretch whose evilry shalt oppose mine heroism always!
For what is a hero, if his hours must be wasted in lethargic stupor?!
Who shalt test might and bravery mine?! Pray tell, my liege!
Whither doth my archnemesis lie?!

kyra

......
I think there's something you're not quite understanding here.
We're camped out. The whole point is to NOT be tested in that way.
You know, so we can conserve our energies for the next battle?

alonso

Pah. Rest! Loathsome articulation!
What rest 'tis, when forth it brings exhaustion o' mine soul?!
Oh, Mother above! I beseech thee! Grant me leave of this torture!
Bring me a worthy foe and relieve mine tragic plight! Please!

(Alonso jumps at something.)

There!

(Alonso jumps at something else.)

Or perhaps there! Where do you hide, fiend?!
Teresa! Where art thou?! Help me find mine villain!

(Alonso charges off.)

If Teresa is alive

kyra

......
I'm beginning to regret my choices.

If Teresa is dead

kyra

......
Yeesh... Poor guy.

Teresa & Ofelia

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

ofelia

Ahh, I had begun to believe we would never leave the frozen tundra.
I was hardly equipped for such journeying conditions.
I am not yet meant to end up as a frozen statue...

teresa

...Yet?

ofelia

Oh! You startled me.
Did nobody ever teach you that eavesdropping is wrong?

teresa

Uhh, well, you were muttering really loudly to yourself.
What was I supposed to do, cover my ears?

ofelia

Ah, I shall forgive you. I am certain you meant no harm.

teresa

...Right... So, why “yet?”
I'd thought most people would hope never to become a frozen statue.

ofelia

Mm, you see... That is how I wish to be laid to rest.
When I pass, my will is that I be encased in ice,
and preserved in the farthest reaches of the continent.

teresa

Oh.
That's... more creative than the usual tomb three paces deep.

ofelia

It is the only known way for the human form to survive the passing of time.
In ancient graves, all that is found is, at best, skeletons. At worst, dust.
Yet perfectly conserved human beings continue to be found by adventurers,
bold or reckless enough to venture into the high peaks and deep tundras.
Often they join the ranks of the lost, yet not one of them fades away.
The cold protects evermore.

teresa

Okay, but why would you want that?
The church says only those buried in hallowed ground may be born anew.
Amidst the soil that is the Mother's blessing, She welcomes them into Her embrace.

ofelia

I am resourceful. My soul will fend for herself just fine, as I've always done.
But there is no outrunning death, no matter what some may like to claim.
Beauty such as mine deserves protection the most, wouldn't you agree?

teresa

That's it? You want to stay pretty forever, even after you die?

ofelia

(smiles) The concept of some brave explorer, centuries from now, coming upon me...
Finding themself bewitched, entranced... Yet it shall be an impossible love,
for I will have left this realm eons earlier... Is that not verily romantic?

teresa

(smiles) Wow... Yeah, actually.
Maybe I should do that too. See who falls in love with my corpse.

ofelia

There would be someone. Count on it.
(frowns) ...Even if you could stand to work more on your hair.
And your attire, my goodness. Being armored is no excuse.
Armor can be beautified. You just haven't bothered.
And oh my goodness, your skin is so rough!
Is that a pimple I spy upon your cheek?
Are you aware of the concept of skincare?

teresa

...You know, I'm just happy you've not mentioned my weight.
Usually people go for that when they're trying to be mean.
Props for creativity, again.

ofelia

That is irrelevant. Why, some prefer it like that.
My little brother happens to--

teresa

O-Okay, okay! It's getting awkward now! I'm leaving! Bye!

(Teresa leaves.)

ofelia

(smiles) ...Alas, brother mine... I tried. In matters of love, you remain cursed.

[Teresa and Ofelia gain C-rank support with each other.]

Chapter 14

Tiresias speaks to Kyra as soon as she enters camp.

Tiresias

tiresias

Kyra... I have done it.
My life's work, it has all lead up to this singular moment.
I've always considered myself rather eloquent, and yet...
On this, I find myself unable to find any appropriate words.
How could I reveal this without doing a disservice to its monumentality?

kyra

...As far as preambles go, I'd say that's a pretty solid one.

tiresias

You know what? Perhaps it's simpler to just show you.
I can vaguely tell where you are, I think, but...
Please steel yourself. I wouldn't want to hurt you.

kyra

Whoa, whoa! Hey! What are you planning?

tiresias

I'm going to cast a spell in your general direction. Are you ready?

kyra

I guess, yeah... Go ahead, I'll be fine.

tiresias

(closes eyes) Here goes...
Don't fail me now. I don't want to end up looking like an idiot.

......

kyra

......
So, uh... Is something supposed to have happened by now, or--

(Tiresias casts Lightning.)

kyra

What kind of magic was that? I've never seen anything like it...

tiresias

Tartaros's forbidden brand of magical energy.
Once called light magic, it would seem.

kyra

I don't believe it!
Tiresias, you may have just changed the course of history...

tiresias

On the contrary, I only find myself more baffled.
Tell me, Kyra. What did you think of that spell?

kyra

It was very bright. Guess that's why they called it light magic.
And uh... It didn't feel particularly strong or anything?

tiresias

Yes! Exactly! This light magic, it is thoroughly unremarkable!
So why is it demonized by the Church of Anima's doctrine?

kyra

You're the scholar and you're asking me?

tiresias

I was so worried I may be unleashing something far beyond my ken.
Instead, the only thing I've unleashed is more doubt and confusion.
I don't know whether to feel relieved, disappointed or simply laugh it up!

kyra

(smiles) How about just be proud of your accomplishment?
Even if the magic itself isn't anything to write home about, you've still uncovered a piece of history thought lost forever.

tiresias

Yes, you're probably correct.
Well, in any event, that was all I wished to discuss.
Thank you for seeing me on such short notice.

kyra

Are you kidding me? I got to witness history in the making.
I should be thanking you!

tiresias

Heh... Well, you're welcome, then.
For the time being, this one tome is all I have to offer.
I will redouble my efforts to refine the process, however.
Soon I may be able to produce more, with Hestia's assistance.
I only request some time.

kyra

Take it easy, Tiresias. You've pulled off enough miracles for a day.

tiresias

(smiles) ...Yeah, that's probably right... I'll take the rest of the day off.
(serious) But tomorrow... The grind continues, so to speak.

Hestia

hestia

Kyra. Can I tell you something, while Tiresias isn't around?

kyra

Oh, dear. Are you about to snitch about something devilish?

hestia

I don't think so. Tiresias is good people, I can tell you that much.
He's up to something, though, and trying to be discreet about it.

kyra

Well, yeah, he's going into uncharted territory with that light magic of his.
Uncharted because the charts were all burned down. He ought to watch himself.

hestia

Actually, he's been the opposite of discreet about his research.
With me, anyway. I've even lent him a hand where I could.
No, there's something else. I can smell it.

kyra

Well, does your nose tell you anything else?

If Wulfric is alive

hestia

If it did, I would've started with that.
Eh, he's probably just making some kind of surprise present for Wulfric.
Maybe it's his birthday soon.

kyra

Whatever it is, he must have a reason to keep it under wraps.

If Wulfric is dead

hestia

If it did, I would've started with that.
Eh, he's probably just making some kind of surprise present for you.
Is it your birthday soon?

kyra

Not really, but whatever it is, he must have a reason to keep it under wraps.

Try not to be nosy, okay, Hestia? It wouldn't be fair.
...Hey, when is your birthday? Maybe it's you he's making a present for.

hestia

(smiles) Hah! Can't be that, because my birthday was four days ago.

kyra

(serious) Oh... S-Sorry, I forgot...

hestia

No you didn't, silly, I didn't tell you!
You can remember for next year, if we're both still alive.

kyra

I have a really bad memory for this kind of stuff, but I'll try.

hestia

You do that. And hey, don't let me make you worry about Tiresias.
I'm sure he'll speak up himself sooner or later.

Zaccheus & Conan

If Delilah is alive

(The margraves have been imprisoned in the camp storeroom.)

kyra

I hear a lot of chipper chatter in there.
Mind explaining what's going on?

delilah

(smiling) Oh, nothing nefarious, I assure you.

zaccheus

Is it forbidden to exchange words within your domains, O esteemed Lady Kyra?

kyra

Where you two are concerned? Maybe it should be.
I'd rather not waste the cloth it'd take to gag you, though, so I'm just going to ask again: What is it about?

zaccheus

Tch... Lowborn little... Oh, what's the point. Fine, you nosy little pest.
Since you've so graciously locked us in this dusty room for no reason, we are using this time to discuss matters of mutual interest.

delilah

(smiling) Specifically, we're assessing how best to divide the former Powys territory.
It would be ideal if we could both come out of this satisfied, right, Zaccheus?

zaccheus

(smiles) Quite. Our past differences matter not when the spoils are so plentiful.
I am certain two intelligent, pureblooded nobles like us will reach an agreement.

delilah

There is no use in antagonizing one another. The true villain, Simeon, lies dead.
Is that not true, my dear Zaccheus?

zaccheus

Oh, my delightful Delilah, you speak truth and nothing but truth!

kyra

(She's completely out of his league. Wow, I almost feel bad for him...)
I'll leave you to it. Listening to you two makes me feel rotten.
Shall you and I talk instead, Sir...?

If Delilah is dead

(Zaccheus has been imprisoned in the camp storeroom.)

kyra

Staying nice and silent in there, I see.

zaccheus

On the contrary. I am maintaining a riveting philosophical discussion in here.
The chest over there makes an interesting point about the value of human gratitude.

kyra

Right...

zaccheus

Bah... And even after you hoist such humilliation upon me, I owe you.
(smiles) Delilah and Simeon are both rotting as we speak, and it's thanks to you.
The old timer is no longer a concern of mine.
Powys and Flintshire shall both be annexed to Conwy, and be mine!

kyra

I'll leave you to your fantasizing. Listening to you makes me feel rotten.
Shall you and I talk instead, Sir...?

conan

Conan. I am naught but a warrior for hire.
One must earn their nourishment, and battle is all I have known.
And yet, accepting Zaccheus's gold was not the moral choice.
I shall make no excuses, just as I shan't question your own motives.

kyra

Hope this doesn't come across the wrong way, but...

conan

...I do not sound like your typical scar-covered hound of battle, eh?
Distractions are few when you live in a coliseum's barracks.
I read any book I could get my hands on, back in those days.
They kept me tethered to my humanity in that heartless world.

kyra

Hmm... Well, I'm just glad you're a decent fellow.
Welcome to the gang, Conan.

conan

(smiles) Aye. I can already tell I shan't regret joining you.

Simeon & Dahl

If Delilah is alive

(The margraves have been imprisoned in the camp storeroom.)

kyra

I hear a lot of chipper chatter in there.
Mind explaining what's going on?

delilah

(smiling) Oh, nothing nefarious, I assure you.

simeon

Have I no right to speech now? Will my tongue be removed should I continue?

kyra

Where you two are concerned? Maybe it should be.
I'd rather not stain our knives with blue blood, though,
so I'm just going to ask again: What is it about?

simeon

Hmph... You're fortunate I have no desire to worsen my predicament.
As long as you keep us confined to this dusty hole, we'll employ the time in adopting mutually beneficial agreements.

delilah

(smiling) Specifically, we're assessing how best to divide the former Conwy territory.
It would be ideal if we could both come out of this satisfied, right, Simeon?

simeon

(smiles) Indeed. We are rational adults, able to set our petty prior feuds aside.
Nothing shall hold us back, as long as we speak calmly and honestly.

delilah

There is no use in antagonizing one another. The true villain, Zaccheus, lies dead.
Is that not true, my dear Simeon?

simeon

I agree wholeheartedly. You are far more personable than that boor, Delilah.

kyra

(She's completely out of his league. Wow, I almost feel bad for him...)
I'll leave you to it. Listening to you two makes me feel rotten.
Shall you and I talk instead, Sir...?

If Delilah is dead

(Simeon has been imprisoned in the camp storeroom.)

kyra

Staying nice and silent in there, I see.

simeon

You have locked me alone with the supplies.
Am I to speak to the barrels? I have not taken leave of my senses.

kyra

Right...

simeon

Hmph... Still, deplorable treatment aside, I owe you my gratitude.
(smiles) You have rid me of both the snake Delilah and the cur Zaccheus.
Barlowe may keep Wrexham. Conwy and Flintshire are mine.
I shall content myself with that. It is plenty... for now.

kyra

I'll leave you to your fantasizing. Listening to you makes me feel rotten.
Shall you and I talk instead, Sir...?

dahl

I am called Dahl. Just a man offering his spear to the highest bidder.
Mercenary work pays the bills, but it is not to my liking.
Especially not now that I've had my first taste of bad employer...
I do not intend on remaining this way my entire life, I can tell you that.

kyra

You're the kind to set his sights high, aren't you?

dahl

What can I say. I have confidence in my instincts and my prowess.
Martial and otherwise.
But worry not. Right now, my instinct tells me to cast my lot with you.
And you'll find my prowess most agreeable, now that I am yours to command.

kyra

Glad to hear it. Welcome to the gang, Dahl.

dahl

(smiles) May ours be a prolonged and fruitful association.

Jane & Raleigh

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

raleigh

(smiling) Phew... Man, I'd forgotten how peace and quiet felt like...
We've been deserving a break for a long, long time now.
I can only hope this tranquility lasts...

jane

Hey--

(Raleigh startles.)

raleigh

Uwaah!

raleigh

W-What the heck?!
What are you doing, standing back here all on your own?!

(Jane moves closer.)

jane

E-Er, it's, uh... N-Never mind that!
I just saw you there and wanted to ask you something...
You're not by any chance a member of the knights Lazurite, right?
I remember a few rookies deserted the knights a while back...

raleigh

......
What's it to you?

jane

I-It's just, I'm kinda sorta the margravine's bodyguard...

(Raleigh starts.)

raleigh

What?!

jane

Yeaaah... So I just wanted to tell you...
(smiles) Don't worry!

raleigh

“Don't worry?”
I've just been recognized by the margravine's own retainer!
Darn it, and here I was hoping for some calm, for a change...
Now I must become an unwilling deserter all over again.
Thanks a lot! Really!

jane

C'mon, you don't need to do that! The mistress doesn't even know you exist.

raleigh

You expect me to believe she just forgot about the deserters?

jane

Well, no, of course not, but...
She's... not super concerned with every little guy in her army.
She put a price on the entire platoon's heads at the time, of course, but she didn't know what any of you looked like or anything.
So the whole thing fell through real quick. You're pretty much in the clear now.
J-Just wanted you to know that.

raleigh

(closes eyes) ...Haa...
(opens eyes) For goodness' sake, couldn't you have started there...?

jane

S-Sorry... But yeah. Don't worry about us being here.
Just don't go around bragging about how you got away with it.
Try to keep a low profile, you know?

raleigh

What kind of idiot do you take me for?

...How did you recognize me, anyway? We've never met, have we?

jane

See, that's... The mistress didn't have your description, but I did.
Got it from your dad. I shop at his store sometimes.
He asked me that, if you were ever found... Well, I try to help you.

raleigh

...Pa...
(smiles) Thanks. I guess I owe you a favor now.

jane

(smiles) Hey, I haven't done anything!
You just make sure I don't HAVE to do anything, and we're golden.

raleigh

Count on it.
In return, if you ever need backup in battle...
Well, that's what I'm wearing all this armor for.

jane

I'll make sure to hide behind you if things get crazy! Hahaha...

[Jane and Raleigh gain C-rank support with each other.]

Barlowe & Órlaith

barlowe

(smiles) Ahh, Kyra. Your timing is impeccable.
I was congratulating Órlaith for the services she has provided.

kyra

She certainly deserves it. It's been nice having her around.

Órlaith

You don't need to do this...
I was just doing what I had to do. It wasn't anything special.
I'm your knight. Aiding in your rescue was my duty.

barlowe

(smiling) No, Órlaith. I know it is not a sense of knightly duty that drives you.
I know that you would turn on me without thinking twice, were you to ever deem my actions unjust.

kyra

Margrave, why do you have a smile on your face when you say that?

barlowe

Well, it is a quality I appreciate.
Loyalty or duty should not triumph over virtue, as they often do.
On the contrary. The day people like Órlaith leave my side...
is the day I will know I have strayed from the correct path.

Órlaith

U-Um... W-Well...

barlowe

(smiles) Once more, I thank you, Órlaith.
Please, continue to help Kyra as much as you can.

Órlaith

Okay...

(Barlowe leaves.)

Órlaith

......
Kyra, remember what I told you about why I joined the knights?
The knight who helped me to find my toy when I was a kid?
That was the margrave. Before he was a margrave.

kyra

...You're that old?

Órlaith

No... He wasn't born a margrave, you know.

kyra

O-Oh. I thought the title was hereditary...

Órlaith

I didn't realize, at first. I was too little. I couldn't recognize his face.
A while after I enrolled, I was part of his escorting party during a journey.
He stopped to console a crying child, and it hit me.
(smiles) Heh... The man who inspired me would go on to be the man I serve.
There's something neat in that, right?

kyra

(smiles) I've got to agree with that...
So, have you helped many kids with their toys, yourself?

Órlaith

I haven't had the chance yet, I'm afraid.
But if the chance arises, I'll be glad to restart the cycle.

[Órlaith gains 2 HP.]

Scymerius

kyra

...Huh? Oh, there you are!

scymerius

Something the matter, Commander?

kyra

What do you think? I couldn't find you anywhere!
I was starting to have some concerns about you...

scymerius

Come now, Commander. I am no deserter.

kyra

No one said you are, but...
Would you mind explaining what you've been up to?

scymerius

Must I?
I'm flattered, but you don't need to worry about me, Commander.

kyra

Who said I'm worried about you?
I'm worried that you haven't given me a single reason to trust you.

scymerius

...I was just taking care of a little job on the side.
Nothing you need to concern yourself with, trust me.
There. Feeling better now?

kyra

All right, that's progress. So, what was the job about?

scymerius

What color is your underwear?

kyra

...Sorry...?

scymerius

See, I can be nosy too.

kyra

...Did you... actually just say that to me...?

scymerius

Look, contrary to what you may believe, I don't mind talking about myself.
I can tell you what my favorite animal is, for instance.
But I humbly believe I should be entitled to my own privacy.

kyra

Urgh... Fine. Point taken.
But next time, if you must leave, at least warn us in advance.

scymerius

I'll try to keep that in mind.
Oh, and...

kyra

What?

scymerius

My favorite animal is the frog.

kyra

Awesome. Good for you and frogs.

Beatrix

beatrix

(smiles) Hi there, Commander. Pretty decent camp you got here.
A couple of nasty oversights with regards to security, but it's fine.

kyra

That's... really not reassuring, Beatrix.

beatrix

(still smiling) Pay me no mind, Commander. This is just what I do.

kyra

And you're good at your job, considering recent events.
Actually, I meant to talk about that. I wanted to apologize, Beatrix.

beatrix

What for? Not trusting me before?
Please. I'd be more worried if you did trust me.

kyra

Right... That's good to hear. I guess.
How did someone like you even end up working for the margrave?
No offense, but he doesn't strike me as the kind to employ shady spies...

beatrix

If he didn't employ people like me, he would've died long, long ago.
I mean, like you just said, consider the recent events.
Someone in his position simply can't afford to be squeaky clean.

kyra

That's a fair point, I suppose...

If Fiadh is alive

beatrix

He and Fiadh get to be the way they are because I'm here to...
Take care of the more disagreeable sides of the gig, so to speak.
The charitable way to phrase it would be that I try to shield them from all that.
(smiles) ...Of course, the margrave's not so pure and innocent, but Fiadh... Hahaha.

If Fiadh is dead

beatrix

He gets to be the way he is because I'm here to...
Take care of the more disagreeable sides of the gig, so to speak.
The charitable way to phrase it would be that I try to shield him from all that.
(smiles) Though of course, the margrave's not so pure and innocent.

kyra

And what about you? You don't have a problem with that?

beatrix

Me? No. Or maybe it'd be more apt to say... I shouldn't.
If someone has to play the bad guy, it should be me.
It's the role I've proven best suited to play, time and time again.

kyra

......

beatrix

(frowns) By the look on your face, Commander...
I wager you're about to say something profoundly naïve.

kyra

I don't know, Beatrix. You seem pretty nice to me.

beatrix

(smiles) Ahahaha... See? What did I say?
Ah, well... Don't concern yourself with me.
I'm nobody that matters.

kyra

Whatever you say...

Chapter 15

Vasiliki, Scymerius, and Fructuoso will have their first camp conversation here if they were just hired.

Hestia & Agari

If Agari is alive

agari

Kyra...

kyra

Oh, Agari...!

hestia

Nobody's told us much of anything, but...
Well, we can guess what's going on, so don't worry about that.

kyra

I-I'm sorry, Agari... And you too, Hestia...
I've been so wrapped up in my own worries...
I didn't realize you must be hurting just as much as me.

agari

For what it's worth, Kyra, I know my dad would never let your brother be harmed.
He'll protect him and the pirate through thick and thin.

kyra

The pirate, huh... That's also what Pericles called him.
Where'd you two get the idea that he's a sailor, anyway?
The guy's never even been to sea.

agari

Anyway, the point is, when we left him, Elias was in safe hands.
And I'm sure he still is. They wouldn't have abandoned him.

kyra

Look, Agari, I appreciate that you're looking out for my feelings.
Now it's my turn. Why don't you tell me how you're really feeling?

agari

Me? I'm so terrified I could fall to my knees and scream until my voice gives.
But that doesn't help anyone, least of all my dad.
Your brother also won't be helped by you stressing yourself to death, Kyra.
I know it's very easy to say, but... Try not to do anything foolish, all right?
More than ever, now is time to keep our heads cool and our hands steady.

kyra

......
You know, I'm pretty sure I'm older than you.
But right now I could hardly believe it!

hestia

(smiles) Hah! Good one, Agari. You left our daring leader with her mouth agape.

agari

C'mon, Hestia, don't make fun of her.
She didn't ask for us to rope her up in our fight.
And now it has caused her and her family to be separated...
She has every right to resent us, my dad included.

hestia

...I hate that you're right.

kyra

She isn't. I was doomed to this path before I met you.
None of this is your fault. I want you to remember that.

agari

......

hestia

...Well, since the air's getting really heavy around here, I'll be brief.
I know the timing's wonky, but I wrapped up your latest gift.
Behold, a weapon to slay the wielders of your hated arms.

kyra

I'd almost forgotten about that...
Thanks, Hestia. That's going to be really helpful.

hestia

Everything's going to be all right, Kyra. We're gonna make sure.

agari

No matter what it may take.

kyra

...Yeah...

If Agari is dead

hestia

Kyra...

kyra

Oh, Hestia...!

hestia

Nobody's told me much of anything, but...
Well, I can guess what's going on, so don't worry about that.

kyra

I-I'm so sorry, Hestia...
I've been so wrapped up in my own worries...
I didn't realize you must be hurting just as much as me.

hestia

For what it's worth, Kyra, I know Peri would never abandon your brother.
He'll protect him and the pirate with his own life if that's what it takes.

kyra

The pirate, huh... That's also what Pericles called him.
Where'd you get the idea that he's a sailor, anyway?
The guy's never even been to sea.

hestia

What I'm getting at is, Elias was in good hands when we left him.
That has not changed, wherever they may be right now.

kyra

Look, Hestia, I appreciate that you're looking out for my feelings.
Now it's my turn. Why don't you tell me how you're really feeling?

hestia

...I don't know. Agari's already dead. If Peri dies too, I don't know what...
But listen, I've been in the business of bloody war longer than you.
The best advice I can give you is, until we find bodies, they're not dead.
That's what you have to keep telling yourself, so you don't give up.

kyra

......
I'll... I'll try to do that, Hestia. You do that too, okay?

hestia

I just have one request...
We dragged you on this adventure. We tore your family apart.
But... I beg you to hate me, and only me. Spare Agari and Peri...

kyra

You're wrong. I was doomed to this path before I met you.
None of this is your fault. I want you to remember that.

hestia

......
...Well, since the air's getting really heavy around here, I'll be brief.
I know the timing's wonky, but I wrapped up your latest gift.
Behold, a weapon to slay the wielders of your hated arms.

kyra

I'd almost forgotten about that...
Thanks, Hestia. That's going to be really helpful.

hestia

Everything's going to be all right, Kyra. We're gonna make sure.

kyra

...Yeah...

(Hestia gives Kyra either a Lancesplitter or Axecrusher depending on her earlier answer.)

Tiresias & Wulfric

If Wulfric is alive

wulfric

Ah, Dame Kyra.

kyra

Hope I'm not interrupting anything...

wulfric

Not at all. We are not doing anything in particular right now.

tiresias

Waiting for Hestia. She needed a break. She's been working too hard lately...

wulfric

...And so has Tiresias. Hence why I am forcing him to stop for a spell.

tiresias

Yes, yes...

We shall soon be crossing the twin bridges anew, correct?

wulfric

Indeed. It is difficult to believe we were here a scant few weeks past.

tiresias

I, at the least, feel like we've known you for eons, Kyra.

kyra

We might as well, with all that's gone down since we met.

tiresias

My research has advanced at a tremendous pace since, too.
It's like life itself has sped up since that fateful day at the bridges.
And through it all, I've continued to be nothing more than a burden...

kyra

Oh, please. Don't start feeling down now, Tiresias.
I need you to crack one of those pleasant smiles of yours.
Tell a bad joke, something. Please, things are tense enough as is...

tiresias

Yes, I can see that...

wulfric

(smiles) Heh. There it is.

tiresias

(smiles) Sorry, sorry. Like you said, we're all very tense.
I suppose it's getting to me as well.
(serious) The truth is... up to now, I may have been a burden...
But soon, soon I'll be able to be of real use to you.
I just need a little more time...

kyra

Somehow I'm more afraid now.
Don't do anything dumb, Tiresias. Please.

tiresias

It has been some time since I last faced consequences for my actions.
I may be growing complacent. That translates into gormless valor.
And yet, you are all doing the best you can. Why should I be different?

kyra

Wulfric? A little help?

wulfric

Hmm... Well, I do suppose he has a point.

tiresias

(smiles) See? Wulfric agrees!

kyra

...Well, I guess I've no reason to complain, if Wulfric won't.
I know you well enough by now to know you don't need to be coddled.
Show me what you're capable of, genius.

tiresias

I will. Although...

kyra

Yes?

tiresias

(smiles) I may not need to be coddled, but the intention is appreciated nonetheless.

(serious) And with that, I shall get back to it. If you would give me some room...

(Tiresias leaves.)

kyra

...Er...

wulfric

Please, do not be too concerned. This happens every so often.
Among his few flaws, he does count the odd spurt of... impatience.

kyra

Is there nothing you can say to him?

wulfric

I cannot help him with his research, and overbearing lectures he needs not.
I quickly learned that the best I can do in these times is to give him some space.
He will make a breakthrough, or take a deep breath, and he will feel better.

kyra

Or he'll do something reckless, the way he was talking...

wulfric

Kyra... You are not well either, are you?

kyra

What gave it away?
Sorry, Wulfric. It's just...

wulfric

I understand completely. Please, you need not explain yourself to me.
Just know that, by “give him some space,” I do not mean to abandon him.
I am ever ready, waiting for the moment that he needs me.
(smiles) ...And, at risk of sounding presumptuous, I can do the same for you, our friend.

kyra

Thanks... You're a good guy, Wulfric.
Tiresias is lucky.

wulfric

Ah, well... Believe me when I say, I am fortunate, too.

If Wulfric is dead

tiresias

We shall soon be crossing the twin bridges anew, correct?
I can hardly believe we were here only a few weeks ago.
I, at the least, feel like we've known each other for eons.

kyra

We might as well, with all that's gone down since we met.

tiresias

kyra

Oh, please. Don't start feeling down now, Tiresias.
I need you to crack one of those pleasant smiles of yours.
Tell a bad joke, something. Please, things are tense enough as is...

tiresias

Forgive me... Like you said, we're all very tense.
I suppose it's getting to me as well.
The truth is... up to now, I may have been a burden...
But soon, soon I'll be able to be of real use to you.
I just need a little more time...

kyra

Somehow I'm more afraid now.
Don't do anything dumb, Tiresias. Please.

tiresias

It has been some time since I last faced consequences for my actions.
I may be growing complacent. That translates into gormless valor.
And yet, you are all doing the best you can. Wulfric did, too.
He laid down his life for this. Why should I be different?

kyra

Tiresias... If you just feel like you need to do more to...

tiresias

Justify my presence among you, now that Wulfric is gone?
No, I... I think it's quite the opposite, in fact.
Working myself to the bone helps to keep my mind off of it...
You see? My reasons are entirely selfish.

kyra

......

tiresias

I appreciate your concerns, Kyra. Believe me, I do.
All that I ask is that you place your trust in me.
Just as Wulfric used to do...

kyra

...All right, Tiresias.

Hecate

hecate

......

kyra

Hecate, what's wrong?
And don't tell me “nothing,” because I won't buy it.

hecate

......
Kyra, I... I'm so sorry.

kyra

......

hecate

......

kyra

...Aren't you going to elaborate?

hecate

It'd be pointless at this point.
I'm just... I'm really sorry.

kyra

......
Great. Thanks. That does a lot to alleviate my concerns.

hecate

I know. Some friend I am, huh.

kyra

...No, seriously, did you get hit on the head during the last battle?

hecate

......

kyra

All right, then. I guess I'll leave you to it.

Phobos & Soter

soter

(smiles) Ahh, Kyra! Does it not fill you with glee, taking in our Tartaros's sweet air?
Despite all that has happened, we may at least take solace in this.
Our homecoming. Mayhap we will even be able to visit Percote!

kyra

Sorry, Soter. I don't really feel much like rejoicing right now.

phobos

......
Listen, Kyra, I... I just want you to know...
Whatever happens, if you need me, I got your back.

kyra

C'mon, don't do that.

phobos

I'm serious. Elias is a great kid. I'll do anything to help you get him back.

soter

...Indeed, likewise...
Wheresoever he may be, he has naught to fear.
His sister and her valorous friends shall come for him.

kyra

...Thanks, you two. I appreciate it.

phobos

I know I'm not the most reliable, and a lot of times it seems like I hate it here.
But trust me, Kyra, I'm beyond grateful for all you have done for me.
You let me have a place in your band, you trained me personally...
It's only thanks to you I'm able to face the next day. Thank you so much...

soter

......

kyra

Wow, Phobos... That even left Soter speechless.
You know how hard that is to pull off...

soter

Come now...

phobos

I'm just speaking my mind.
B-Before maybe I die and can't speak at all anymore...

kyra

(smiles) Ahh, there's the Phobos we know and love.

phobos

(smiles) H-Hey, you smiled! Haven't seen you do that at all since...
Well, you know.

kyra

Huh. That's true...
Thanks, man. Glad you've stuck with me, through all of this.
And hey, like Soter said, we might get to return to Percote for a spell.
Long enough so you can show your mom how far you've come, maybe?

phobos

You make it sound rather pathetic, but... Yeah, actually.
She's probably worried sick... It'll be nice to see her again.

kyra

Rest assured, you will.

phobos

I'm sure I will. Just like we'll see Elias and Edward again...
We've proven quite good at pulling off impossible feats.

soter

Quite true, that...

[Soter and Phobos' support increases to rank B.]

Laertes

laertes

(smiles) Commander Kyra, I wish to express my gratitude again.
You remind me of the good margrave in days long gone.
It is quite the inspiring sight. I am glad I could come along.

kyra

All right, that's enough...

laertes

(frowns) If I might impose on you anew, however...
I find myself in quite the embarrassing predicament.
You see, I have nary a coin to my name anymore.

kyra

Oh, for crying out loud...

laertes

I am the only family my granddaughter has left, and she is mine.
We cherish one another, but now... She is all alone, back in the village.
She is too young, too young... She cannot work for herself...
With the last of my savings run dry, she will soon find herself starving.
(closes eyes) I... I cannot bear to picture it... Her body gaunt, her cheeks sunken...

(Laertes sobs.)

kyra

So what you want is some money... for your granddaughter?

laertes

(smiles) I would be most grateful.
So much so, in fact, that I would find the energy to fight harder.
I am a far cry from the man I was in my prime, I know...
But fueled by your kindness, I could crawl ever closer.

kyra

Er, I don't know if we can...

laertes

Naturally, I am not asking for a fortune.
A pittance of 750 gold would keep my granddaughter afloat for a few weeks.
It wounds my pride to beg for coin of my benefactor like this, and yet...
Pride is not as important to me as the safety and happiness of my only heir.

kyra

Well, I...

If you agree

kyra

Here you go. Make sure it gets to your granddaughter quickly.

laertes

(smiles) You are every bit as magnanimous as I thought, Commander Kyra!
I am truly proud to serve under a veritable saint such as you.
So proud, I can feel my lost strength returning to me!
Yes... Laertes, Knight of Wrexham, will be your foes' nightmare!

kyra

Hey, I just don't want to let a kid starve. You don't need to go that far...

laertes

Kindhearted deeds cannot go unrewarded. That is my belief.
Now let us see how far my admiration of you shall carry me!

kyra

Whatever you say...

[All of Laertes' stats increase by 1.]

If you refuse

kyra

We just don't have the gold. Sorry.

laertes

Is that so... What a shame...

kyra

Sorry, man. But we need the funds something fierce.
If you want to go back to your granddaughter, I won't stop you.

laertes

Hmm... Well, I don't think that should be necessary.
I am loathe to do this, but I shall have to write my son-in-law.
Ohh, he's a heinously despicable miser, that one...
But surely even he won't be so evil as to let a young girl starve.
Carry on then, Commander. Call on me if you need my strength.
My waning strength, nearly depleted, ravaged so by years and inaction...

kyra

...Sure.

Kairos

kairos

(closes eyes) ...And may Her gaze keep us from the malefic influence of...
......
Might I have a moment to wrap this up, Kyra?
I'm just about done with this prayer...

kyra

Does the Mother tell you when people sneak up on you, too?

kairos

(opens eyes, smirks) Oh no, my ears do that.
So, which of the ongoing problems has you seeking my guidance?

kyra

...I'm just wondering why you're still here, Kairos.
Percote's not so far now, but it feels like a lifetime ago.
What motivated you to follow us on this adventure?

kairos

(serious) There's no need to be coy about it. Call it what it is.
A war against the institution I am supposed to serve...

kyra

......
I'm not accusing you of anything, Father Kairos.

kairos

Nobody said anything to that effect until you did.

kyra

Isn't it a reasonable question? Especially at this stage.

kairos

Look me in the eyes, Kyra.

kyra

Don't goof around, Kairos. This is serious.

kairos

Am I smiling? Look at my eyes, please.

kyra

All right, eye contact's been made. Now what?

kairos

I despise the church, in its current state, with every fiber of my being.
The hierophant, the inquisition... They took something beautiful,
and they twisted and corrupted it to suit their designs for power.

kyra

Kairos...

kairos

(smiles) What a thing for a priest to say, huh. I might be the worst in the whole world.
(serious) But yeah, that's it, if you want to believe it. I understand it's hard.
I studied so fervently to join the church, to become a guiding light for others.
And then I was told my light was only meant to set fire to heretics.
I don't know, that just doesn't sit right with my perception of the Mother.
But maybe that's just my arrogance speaking. Heh, fancy that.
Some lowly town priest touting himself as an expert on the divine.

kyra

Well, you'd know more than me, that's for sure. I've never been a believer.

kairos

I know. Don't think I saw you once at church, before this.

kyra

......
All right. Sorry I bothered you, Kairos.

kairos

If I'm here, it's because I believe we're doing something good.
Or, if nothing else, something with the potential to be good.
And I'm tempted to believe the Mother would agree.
She can't be none too pleased about the state of her church.
(smiles) ...At least, that's the opinion of the worst priest in the world.

kyra

Thanks, Kairos... I guess.

kairos

For what little it's worth, Kyra, I'm always praying for you.
Mayhap the Mother shall deign to grant you a little gift sometime.

kyra

That'd be nice.

[Kyra gains 1 Magic.]

Alonso & Teresa

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

teresa

Lord Alonso... There's a question I really have to ask at this point.

alonso

Beg thee I, pour thy soul's regrets before me, faithful shieldbearer.

teresa

...Don't you think we underestimated this bunch just a tad?
I was glad to join them at first. I thought we'd be safer with them.
But it's been battle after battle after battle ever since...
Now we're going back to Tartaros, arms in hand, and... I have a bad feeling.
I'm thinking, we don't exactly owe these guys anything, right?
Maybe we could ask the commander if uh, we could take our leave now?
Politely.

(Alonso gasps.)

alonso

I cannot believe my ears! Teresa, you speak cowardice!

teresa

Of course, here we go...
Hey, it's my job to keep you safe, Lord Alonso.
I'm okay entertaining your flights of fancy and all,
but I can't let you get yourself killed fighting in an actual war!

alonso

Mine charge be the pursuit of righteous truth and justice.
Knightly vows I swore, upon my blade and liege of honor!
Quiver not shalt my spirit! Cease thine gutless words!

(Teresa becomes agitated.)

teresa

You aren't even a real knight! You retired 11 years ago!
And, for that matter, I'm supposed to just be your maid, dammit!

alonso

Picketh thee did I, amongst my capable staff.
None other could take to the Mother's skies!
Our Lady Fate hath use for thy great talents!

teresa

(smiles) Y-You really think I'm that good? I-I mean, I'm glad, but uh...

(Teresa composes herself.)

teresa

Oh-- That's not the point, though!
I learned to fly so I could deliver parcels, not fight in an actual war!
Which, might I remind you, is the key point we're digressing from here.
“Actual war.” Do you understand, Lord Alonso?

alonso

Teresa, mayhap thy mind hath not dwelled upon this matter.
I am no knight anymore. So be it! You are no knight. So be it!
Yet, knightly spirit within my heart of hearts remains, undaunted.
Ponder this: Which is the righteous course?
Fleeing in the face of fraught peril, or standing brave against evil?!

teresa

Oh, c'mon. Are you seriously trying to guilt trip me here?
Don't lie to me. You're only doing this because you're bored!

alonso

Perchance sedentary lord's idyllic life threatened my psyche. 'Tis true.
However... Tell me and tell me in truth, Teresa.
Does our noble Tartaros not require a cleansing?

teresa

......

alonso

If the thrill of adventure we can pursue, yet in the selfsame moment, for justice we can wield lance and axe... Is this so objectionable, prithee?
To be liberators of the realm... Not many are afforded such chance.
History shalt not the quitters recall...

teresa

...Who're you calling a quitter, my lord? What, you think I'm not enjoying this?

alonso

Oho?

teresa

(smiles) Yeah, okay, I'll admit it! Going down in history would be neat!
And if you don't give half a flying fig about your own safety,
why should I? Let's keep at it! Kick butts, earn names!
And when we die horribly, I'll get to say, “I told you so!”
It's a win-win situation for me! Hurray!

(Teresa flounces off.)

alonso

Hehehe... 'Tis thine own folly, Teresa friend o' mine.
None could ever best me at wordsmithry. Hark!

[Alonso and Teresa's support increases to rank B.]

Chapter 17 Hestia

If Agari is alive

kyra

Hestia, do you know where Agari is?
I can't see her anywhere.

hestia

She went out to scout.
But really, she just needed a moment alone.
Don't worry. She'll be ready when the tussle starts.

kyra

...I failed her. And I failed you.
If I had seen through Soter's deception...
Pericles might still be with us.

hestia

What ifs can be quite addicting, Kyra.
Once you start, you may not be able to stop.
So don't start, all right? We all knew the risks.
If Peri's lying dead in a ditch right now, well...
He gave his life fighting for what he believed in.
Trust me, Kyra. He has a lot of regrets.
Joining you has never been one of them.

If Agari is dead

kyra

Hestia... How are you holding up?

hestia

I'll be fine.

kyra

...I failed you, Hestia.
I got Agari killed, and now...
If I had seen through Soter's deception...
Pericles might still be with us.

hestia

kyra

......

hestia

Anyway, I have a couple of things to tell you.
First off, we've been hard at work, Tiresias and me.
We've managed to begin reproducing his tome.
As always, I'll need some money for materials,
but I can begin to make them in bulk for you, if you want.

kyra

Thanks, Hestia. Something tells me we'll have use for them.

hestia

Also... I was making a little thing.
For when we reunited with Peri.
It just needs a few finishing touches.
Swing by next time, and I'll give it to you.
That's probably what he would've wanted.

kyra

And if there is no next time?

hestia

Then we forge a next time with our weapons.
That, and we stop saying stupid things like that.
This kind of fatalism is the last thing we need.

kyra

...Yeah, you're right. Sorry, Hestia.

hestia

You've had a tough night.
Let's just make sure the day's way better.

Tiresias & Apate

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

apate

......

tiresias

There is only one person capable of such gelid silence among us.
Lady Apate... If you are here to make good on your threat...
I only request that you wait until the battle is through.
Killing me now would jeopardize everyone else's chances to live.

apate

...I do not intend to harm you.

tiresias

Do you not? You were very clear when we spoke before.
It was not light magic, but healing magic you warned me about, right?
But I could not help myself. Curiosity once more killed the cat.
I have gone where I shouldn't have, and now I must be stopped...

apate

...Sigh...
No, Tiresias. You are mistaken.
You are certainly growing closer...
But you have not crossed the point of no return.
You have not ventured where we did...
You have not destroyed your soul as we did.

tiresias

What?

apate

The power you have uncovered is not inherently evil.
On the contrary. It was once used to do much good.
...Until we corrupted it into a shadow of itself.

tiresias

Who is “we,” Lady Apate?

apate

When I threatened you, Tiresias... I was not being honest.
The truth is, I could not bring myself to do you harm.
You... are everything I once deceived myself into believing I was.
Pure of heart, earnestly seeking advancement for the good of all.

All I want from you is assurance that you will not be led astray.
You will use your newfound ability for what it was meant. For good.

tiresias

Lady Apate...
When was the last time you bared your heart like this?

apate

All too long.
Recent events have taken their toll on me.
(smiles) Heh. I suppose I am not too old to grow more foolish.

tiresias

...Well... I'm just glad I'm not in danger.
Watching one's back is difficult when you're... Well, you know.

apate

Keep honing your abilities.
Currently you can only repair minor wounds. That will change.
As you progress, I shall assist you in improving your conduit.

tiresias

(smiles) Well! This is quite the surprising turn of events.
Now we simply cannot let everything end here.
Isn't that right, Lady Apate?

apate

Aye... We cannot.

[Apate and Tiresias gain C-rank support with each other.]

Nicaea

kyra

Hey. You.

nicaea

Mm? Oh, our leader. Good to see you still live.
Nobody was sure quite what had happened to you...

kyra

Listen. This isn't something I want to be doing.
But someone I considered a dear friend has sold us out.
We may all die here because of him. So...
Now I'm worried about who else could have ulterior motives.
And you... The things I've heard about you...
I'm told you killed your own twin sister.

nicaea

If I denied it, I would be lying.
I am not a liar.

kyra

But you are a traitor, aren't you?

nicaea

......
My parents were a match made in heaven. But I guess the heavens did not agree.
My sisters and I, we were born with... problems.
You can see my lip, and my elder sister lacks sight in one of her eyes.
Neither of these ailments are anything compared to what Aura got.
The church apothecaries said she wouldn't live to turn 12.

(Kyra starts.)

kyra

...!

nicaea

My parents grew desperate.
I'll never know how, but they dug up a real life lifewringer.
I cannot remember her face. All I know is that they enlisted her services.
Whether she truly did anything or she was a mere charlatan is beyond me.
Either way, Aura began a miraculous recovery after her visit.

kyra

A sad story that hits a bit too close to home for comfort.
...The difference being, I would never want Elias dead.

nicaea

Aura's life was saved. And she never forgot.
Years later, our school took us to meet the holy knights.
They do that for all young kids raised in the capital.
That's how they begin to groom their future recruits.
...Aura told them everything.

kyra

Wait, you can't mean...

nicaea

Later she bragged all about how the knights praised and rewarded her for her deed.
They gave her a letter of recommendation for when she grew old enough to join up.
I was less fortunate. While she had stayed behind, I had already gotten home.
I watched as my parents first argued, then fought against their arrestors.
By the end, I was sitting on a pool of my parents' own blood, terrified I'd be next.
And she went on to consider this one of the proudest moments of her life.

kyra

That's... That's horrible...

nicaea

Ungrateful cur. I only gave her what she deserved.
So, if you want to know if I can be trusted...
Insofar as you continue to oppose Tartaros, yes.
After that, we don't need to ever meet again.
I don't know if there even is an “after” for me.

kyra

......
The theocracy has destroyed enough lives.
We can agree on that, right?

nicaea

It's why I'm here.

Telemus

kyra

Hi...

telemus

Before you begin, let me just say this.
I have heard of what happened with your friend, the knight.
If you wish for me to depart, I would fully understand.

kyra

Well, you're a step ahead of me.
But... No, I'm willing to give you the benefit of the doubt.
You were in real danger back there.

telemus

Danger can be feigned.

kyra

At that point I had just begun to suspect Soter.
And I don't think they intended on keeping up the charade, anyway.
What reason would they have had to try to slip another mole in?

telemus

The inquisition is nothing if not thorough.
After that harrowing night, you should put nothing past them.

kyra

Are you arguing against your own case right now?

telemus

I suppose I am. I don't quite know why.
I do not have my head set on right at the moment.
My trust has been betrayed, as well. By the institution I swore my life to.

kyra

Look, you showed up in the middle of the worst night of my life and tried to help.
That meant a lot, but if you want to leave while you still can, you don't need excuses.
Just leave. I won't stop or begrudge you.

telemus

I am grateful for the offer, but I must refuse.
I have no doubt already been branded a traitor.
My choice was made when I disobeyed my orders.
There is no path left for me but yours.
Which, I would add, I believe to be the righteous one.

kyra

......

telemus

Commander?

kyra

Sorry, it's just... It's not your fault, but...
Dammit, it's like I'm looking at Soter all over again.
I... I can't handle it. Sorry. I'll be on my way now.

telemus

Courage, Commander...

Glaucus

kyra

Glaucus... I'm sorry.
I asked you to stay, and now I've roped you into this...

glaucus

Ahh, don't sweat it.
Frankly, now that we're here, I'm glad I didn't jump ship.
We're going to need a miracle to get outta here alive.
Would've felt terrible if I wasn't here to help.

kyra

......

glaucus

Got more to say, Commander?

kyra

Not exactly. I'm just a little surprised, that's all.
You're actually a pretty decent guy.

glaucus

(smiles) Heeey. Why is that surprising?
You hurt my feelings, Commander.

kyra

Oh... Forgive me, Glaucus...

glaucus

No, don't worry about it. Just messing with you.
Look... I know everything's gone to heck, and the odds aren't really in our favor.
But as long as we're alive, we can turn this around.
Whatever happens, don't give up, you hear me?

kyra

Is that the mindset that made you keep gambling after you ran out of money?

(Glaucus balks.)

glaucus

Wha-- Commander!
I have things to live for too, you know.
I would hate to leave my pops alone in the world.

kyra

...Sorry. Just messing with you, too.

glaucus

(smiles) Hah! Well, glad to see your spirit's not completely beaten down, at least.
But please, take it out on them, not me, eh?

kyra

I can agree to that.
Say... What's your, er, pops like?

glaucus

Merchant from the capital. Rather talented one, too.
He's not perfect. Likes his liquor a bit too much.
Then again, considering my thing with gambling, I cannot judge.
Eh, all in all... He's a decent guy, and I love him very much.

kyra

...Try your best to stay alive, then. For him.

glaucus

(smiles) Roger that, Commander.

[Glaucus gains 1 Strength.]

Phobos & Begoña

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

phobos

......

Begoña

Room for two?

(Phobos startles.)

phobos

Gah!
Oh, it's just you... Y-Yeah, I guess there is.

Begoña

......

phobos

What? If you're going to mock me, get on with it.

Begoña

That really what you think I wanna do, boy?

phobos

What else could it be?

Begoña

Show sympathy? Lend a friendly ear?
Just some company in these tryin' times?

phobos

Yeah. Sure.

You know, one of your mooks stabbed me in the back once.

Begoña

(grins) Gehahahaha! I remember that!
(frowns) ...Sorry. Yeah, I know what yer talkin' about...

phobos

It hurt like hell, but...
Now I'm not even bleeding and yet it hurts worse.

Begoña

Yep. That's what betrayal'll do to ya.
It's a horrible thing, that. Wouldn't wish it on anyone.

phobos

...Begoña, what do I do now?
I don't feel like I'll ever be able to trust anyone again.
I get scared easy, but at least I always thought I could rely on my friends.
Now I look at Kyra and I'm afraid she'll turn around and shoot me in the face.

Begoña

...You know, all my life, I've had nothin'.
No family. No money. No home. No food, some days.
Nothing but camaraderie.
The camaraderie I shared with my boys kept me goin'.

phobos

They never broke your trust?

Begoña

Some 'o them did, 'course.
I like to romanticize it, but we were still lawless thugs.
We picked up some greedy clods who'd sell their own mother.
Wanna know how I kept goin' after they showed their true colors?

I leaned harder on the rest of my boys. I trusted harder.
Sounds weird, don't it? But truth is, bein' betrayed is tough.
Best way to get through tough times is to lean on friends.
It's very simple when I put it like that, innit?

phobos

That... does make some sense, but... I don't know...

Begoña

Hey, some folks do just fine all alone.
You just don't strike me like that kinda kid.
But look... At risk of bringing up bad memories...
I've heard rumors of what you pulled back in Percote.
How you snitched on the hag, that one time...

(Phobos starts.)

phobos

I-I-- I panicked! I didn't mean--!

Begoña

Just listen. Yer still here, ain't ya?
Did your friends turn their backs on you?
No. You said sorry, and they trusted you. They still do.
Friends like that ain't that easy to come by, Phobos.
Now it's yer turn. You can't let that old bastard ruin yer life.
He turned out bad. But Kyra and the others won't. You'll see.

phobos

Begoña... I... feel better now.
(smiles) Thanks.

Begoña

(smiles) Never thought ye'd utter that word t'me, did ya? Yer welcome!
We're all in this together. Gotta look out for each other.

phobos

(frowns) ...What happened to the guy who stabbed me, anyway?

Begoña

Remember how when we were escapin' the prison, you tripped?

phobos

Oh, yeah... A guard grabbed at my leg.
Someone knocked the guy off me. I just kept running after that.

Begoña

That was him.
He died on the guard's sword a moment later.

phobos

......
I... I'm sorry...

Begoña

Don't want you t'be sorry. I want you to learn.
People're not always what they seem to be.
That works for better and for worse.

phobos

...Mm...

[Phobos and Begoña gain C-rank support with each other.]

Delilah, Barlowe, & Jane

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

delilah

Barlowe!

(Delilah flounces towards Barlowe.)

delilah

Don't you dare ignore me! I know you heard me!

barlowe

Ah, Delilah. I am sorry. I grow hard of hearing in my old age.
I see you are out and about. Good for you.
I pray you will not squander the trust you have been granted.

delilah

Are you done prancing around the issue?
Good. You may begin to explain yourself!

barlowe

Whatever do you mean?

delilah

My idea was to wait until they stopped paying attention to me, then disappear.
I underestimated their caution, however. They watched me like ravenous hawks.
Then you showed up, and I resigned myself. It was well and truly over.

barlowe

Aha...?

(Delilah becomes agitated.)

delilah

“Aha?!” That's all you have to say to me?!
Earlier you pointed out that I am out and about. Very observant!
Why?! Why is that, Barlowe?! What are you plotting?

barlowe

...Hmm...

(Barlowe moves closer.)

barlowe

For your own peace of mind, I will address your concerns.
The truth is as I told Kyra then. What happened does not matter.
You have already been wrestled into submission and compliance by her.
Ask yourself this. What would I gain from bringing up the past now?
She may feel compelled to deliver some manner of punishment unto you, when what we truly need from you is your sword arm and your guile.

delilah

......

(Delilah shakes with laughter.)

delilah

(grins) Ahahahahaha! I see it so clearly now!
I made an enemy of the wrong person.
You're quite the snivelling snake, aren't you, old man?

(Barlowe moves back.)

barlowe

(smiles) I am glad we have reached an understanding.
Do take care to keep it at the forefront of your mind.

delilah

Oh, I will. I am not an idiot. I can tell when I have been soundly defeated.

barlowe

Marvelous. Now, if you will excuse me...

(Barlowe leaves.)

delilah

...My, my... By all rights I should be seething.
But how could I? I am the centerpiece in a grandmaster's masterstroke.
It is almost flattering... Ahahahahaha!

If Jane is alive

(Jane approaches.)

jane

Er, Mistress... What was that all about?

delilah

(smiles) Oh, don't you worry your pretty little head, my dear Jane.
Just make sure to keep training those beautiful muscles of yours.
We must be unfaltering. We must be the scourge of Commander Kyra's enemies!

jane

(smiles) W-Well... I'm just happy to see you're feeling more spirited!

delilah

Thanks to you as well. I am glad to have you.

(Jane balks.)

jane

Er-- M-Mistress!

delilah

What? I may be a wicked witch, but I am not made of stone.

jane

Well, I uh... I love you too, Mistress.

delilah

Of course you do, dear. Of course you do.

[Jane & Delilah's support increases to rank B.]

Hecate & Kairos

If Kairos is alive

hecate

......

kairos

Hecate...

hecate

Not now, preacher. I'm not in the mood to mess around with you...

kairos

You know, guiding those feeling lost is one of the basic duties of my job.

hecate

You're gonna tell me to pray the sorrow away? Shove off.

kairos

Among my duties is also to hear the confessions of the guilty.
I am also bound to silence, regarding what I may hear.

hecate

...Uh huh...

(Kairos steps closer.)

kairos

Hecate... What happened?
I won't tell anyone. I swear.
But you need to talk it out with someone.

hecate

......

I knew, Kairos.
I knew... about Soter...

kairos

I see...
For how long?

hecate

It was after we left Wrexham to rescue the margrave...
The night before we reached Flintshire, I went for a walk.
It was so stupid. I... I got stung by a bug and couldn't sleep.
I wandered to the forest nearby and stumbled into him.
I startled him and he dropped the letter he was writing.
I couldn't help but see it.

kairos

...It was his report to the Grand Inquisitor.
Letting her know that Wrexham was lightly defended, and that little Elias was there...

hecate

At the time, I managed to calm myself and react properly.
I expressed interest, and we cut a deal.
When the time came, I would change sides with him.
He would put a good word in for me...

kairos

But you lied. You're still here.

hecate

I guess the next question is, why didn't I say anything...

kairos

No, I can figure the answer to that.

hecate

......

kairos

......
You were afraid we wouldn't believe you.

hecate

Soter was there longer than I was. And I know I'm not... Well...
He was a booming source of optimism. I was the cynical jerk that showed up later.
Kyra would not have believed me. And I was... so afraid that, after that...
That the next night, I'd wake up to watch him bring his axe down on my skull...
Just like he'd done with Pheme...

kairos

......

hecate

K-Kairos, it's... It's all my fault...

(Hecate sobs.)

I was a coward and a fool, and now...
I have no right to stand with you all.

kairos

Don't--

???

Don't say that, Hecate. Please.

(Kyra approaches)

hecate

You were eavesdropping, huh...
(smiles) Sniff... It's a pretty nasty habit you have, you know?

kairos

Look, Hecate, I won't lie to you. You made a mistake.
But Soter'd been feeding them info for longer than that.

kyra

Since the start, Hecate.
That's how the Grand Inquisitor came to Percote in the first place.

hecate

Of course. In the capital, Apate is basically the stuff of legend.
I recognized her too. I can't deny I was briefly tempted.
The rewards promised by the hierophant for her are...

kairos

...But you didn't do it, because you couldn't betray us.
That's because you're a better person than Soter is.

hecate

Oh, please.

kyra

Look, Hecate... I've lost enough people I care about.
Right now I just want to keep the rest of you, if I can.
So please, dry those tears and worry about what's next, okay?

hecate

(closes eyes) ...Sniff... I-I...

kairos

Kyra, would you give us a moment?

kyra

Yeah, sure.
And hey... Thanks, Kairos. I'm glad we can still count on you.

kairos

(smiles) Pfeh...

(Kyra leaves.)

hecate

What now, preacher?

kairos

Kyra said to dry your tears, but there's still time.
I would suggest crying it all out before we have to fight.

hecate

...Actually... I don't feel like crying as much anymore.
(smiles) Who could cry in the company of such a kind and handsome guy?
Even if he's a preacher.

kairos

(smiles) See, that's already closer to the Hecate we know and love.

[Hecate & Kairos' support increases to rank B.]

If Kairos is dead

hecate

......

kyra

Hecate...

hecate

K-Kyra... I...

kyra

Hecate... What happened?
Whatever it is, it's obvious it's eating you up inside.
Please, talk to me...

hecate

......

I knew, Kyra.
I knew... about Soter...

kyra

I see...
For how long?

hecate

kyra

...It was his report to the Grand Inquisitor.
Letting her know that Wrexham was lightly defended, and that Elias was there...

hecate

At the time, I managed to calm myself and react properly.
I expressed interest, and we cut a deal.
When the time came, I would change sides with him.
He would put a good word in for me...

kyra

But you lied. You're still here.

hecate

I guess the next question is, why didn't I say anything...

kyra

...We don't have to keep talking if you don't want to.

hecate

I was afraid that... you wouldn't believe me, Kyra.
Soter was there longer than I was. And I know I'm not... Well...
He was a booming source of optimism. I was the cynical jerk that showed up later.
You would not have believed me. And I was... so afraid that, after that...
That the next night, I'd wake up to watch him bring his axe down on my skull...
Just like he'd done with Pheme...

kyra

......

hecate

K-Kyra, it's... It's all my fault...

(Hecate sobs.)

I was a coward and a fool, and now...
I have no right to stand with you all.

kyra

Don't say that, Hecate...
Soter had been spying on us for them for longer than that. Since the start.
That's how the Grand Inquisitor came to Percote in the first place.

hecate

Of course. In the capital, Apate is basically the stuff of legend.
I recognized her too. I can't deny I was briefly tempted.
The rewards promised by the hierophant for her are...

kyra

...But you didn't do it. You didn't betray us.
You've proven to be a better friend than Soter was.

hecate

Oh, please.

kyra

Look, Hecate... I've lost enough people I care about.
Right now I just want to keep the rest of you, if I can.
So please, dry those tears and worry about what's next, okay?

hecate

(closes eyes) ...Sniff... I-I...
I'll try. Kyra... Thank you.

kyra

There... There...

Fiadh & Beatrix

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

fiadh

(smiling) ...Nnngaaaaahhh...

Hic!
Ahh, that hit the spot!

beatrix

I guess there's no point in advising not to get drunk before our big fight.

fiadh

(scowls) Does it matter? We're all probably going to perish here.
If I'm going to meet my maker, I'd rather be plastered.

beatrix

How quick you are to give up.
I, for one, intend to fight for my life. Even if I have to bite.

fiadh

Who said I'm giving up? I have a very specific goal for today.
I'm gonna see Margrave Barlowe through this alive.
I'll take whatever I have to take for it, then I'll drop dead. That's it.

beatrix

......

fiadh

What? Got any more pearls of wisdom in you yet?

beatrix

Since, in your own words, we might all perish today, I guess I'll ask.
What's with you and the margrave?

fiadh

What's what with me and the margrave?

beatrix

Well, for lack of a better word, you're a... fierce gal.
But your loyalty to ol' Barlowe is absolute.
I know he's a great guy, that's why I follow him, but still.
It's too much, don't you think? Did he save your life or something?

fiadh

If you're expecting some kind of tearjerker story, you'll be sorely disappointed.
I saw a listing at the guild requesting a personal guard. I applied, I got hired.
My skills impressed him, so he kept me on. Never gave him a reason to replace me.
After working together so many years, we grew close. That's all there is to it.

beatrix

He cares the world about you, you know.
He never did have any children. Pretty sure he sees you that way.

fiadh

......
What, you jealous?

beatrix

A little bit.

fiadh

Well, like you said, he's a great guy. Could do a lot worse for parental figures.
Guess I might see him that way too. I don't know. Don't think about it much.
After so many years, being at his side just feels like the most natural thing.

beatrix

What I'm getting at with all this is that he'd be devastated if you died for him.
He might not be able to forgive himself, so please, for his sake if not yours.
If the choices are dying or biting, bear your fangs, would you?

fiadh

(smirks) Heh... Say, what about a little bet, Beatrix?
If we both survive, you have to tell me more about yourself.

beatrix

(smiles) Me? What, you don't have enough with your surrogate dad?
Now you're trying to make a step sister out of me, too?

(Fiadh becomes agitated.)

fiadh

(scowls) Moron, try mocking me again. I dare you.
I have little patience as it is, and alcohol tends to reduce it for me.

beatrix

Heehee... See, there's just nothing all that interesting about me.
Like I always say, I'm nobody that matters.

fiadh

That's just it! That's basically your catchphrase!
You say it so often, it's only natural to think it's bogus!

beatrix

Feel free to try holding me to that bet of yours.
After we've both survived.

fiadh

(smiles) Tch... Dammit. Now I've got to protect you as well, don't I.
Was that your intention from the start, you slick wench?

beatrix

Please! I can take care of myself, thank you very much.

[Fiadh and Beatrix gain C-rank support with each other.]

Zaccheus & Conan

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

zaccheus

Conan, can you believe this? This is utterly preposterous!
I am entirely unrelated to this debacle! What am I doing here?!
I am not meant to huddle in ruins and fend for my life!

conan

...Mmhmm...

zaccheus

Pah... Well, no matter. They shall get their comeuppance in due time.
For the time being, we must focus our attention on survival.
Sharpen your axe and brush your eyebrows back, Conan!

conan

I no longer work for you, my lord.

zaccheus

Baahh, pish posh! Mayhap not, but we are still comrades.
Comrades fight together and protect other comrades.
Something or other. Just fall in line, Conan, my man.

conan

...I wonder if the commander would castigate me if I were to...

zaccheus

Hmmm? You must speak up, Conan.
Your whispers are muffled by your beard.

conan

Please, let it bother you not.
Believe me, my axe is ready. It always is.
You should concern yourself with your own arms.

zaccheus

(smiles) Hah! Trust me, those inquisitorial worms are in for a rude awakening.
My extensive talents and acute magical attunement were wasted in Glamorgan.
That unsightly dark magic is devoid of all elegance. Mindless, boorish destruction.
No, only the revered Mother's own gift of power was worthy of my attention.
I spent a handful of years in the capital of Tartaros, studying their holy arts.
I dare say not even Tartaros's own so called sages are a match for me.

conan

Very interesting.

zaccheus

(scowls) Hmph... You do not sound half as impressed as you ought to be.
But then, what would you know of the intricacies of magic?
You're just some battle-crazed dweller of the arenas.

conan

...I was a slave, my lord.

zaccheus

Oh.
...Huh? Wait, what?
I thought slavery was abolished in Glamorgan a few decades ago...

conan

After my time, indeed.
Why do you think I am no longer a “dweller of the arenas,” as you put it?
I was released, alongside the many who suffered my same fate.
I was never there of my own volition, and now battle is all I know.
But battle-crazed, I am not.

zaccheus

......
Slaves were criminals serving sentences, to the last.
You must have done something to deserve what you got.
If you expected sympathy from me, you are even stupider than I thought.

conan

I expected nothing. You're the one insisting on pestering me.

zaccheus

Pah! It is called “basic courtesy,” you antisocial birdbrain.
You should learn some of that sometime.

(Zaccheus leaves.)

conan

(closes eyes) ...So help me, if no one kills him today, I might just...

[Conan gains 1 Strength.]

Simeon & Dahl

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

simeon

Dahl, I tell you, my patience is nearing its end!
These people dare to force this deplorable situation upon me?!
I have nothing to do with this! Why am I here?!
I am this close to filing a formal complaint to the commander!

dahl

Ah, yes, I'm sure that's going to do a whole lot for you.

simeon

...Is that sarcasm I detect in your tone, Dahl?
Hmph. Save your sass for a more suitable occasion.
We must steel ourselves for what is to come to pass.
It shall start any moment now, Dahl! Be ready!

dahl

Lord Simeon, I was under the impression that I was fired.
Who do you presume you are to give me orders now?

simeon

Who do I-- Dahl, regardless of the past, we are now brothers-in-arms!
We must stand side-by-side. Shoulder-to-shoulder!
So cease questioning me and follow my orders-- I mean, my advice!

dahl

My, you're so desperate for someone to look out for you out there.

simeon

(smirks) Hmph! Surely you jest! Desperate? I know not the meaning of the word!
These Tartarans and their inferior magic tricks are entirely below me.
I studied in the Bridgend Academy, the finest in all of Glamorgan.
I graduated at the top of my class. Even the teachers feared my power.
I am one of the - if not THE - most powerful sorcerers of my generation.
Who are YOU, Dahl? An unremarkable spearman with delusions of grandeur!

dahl

Oh, delusions of grandeur, eh?

simeon

I know what you crave for, Dahl. It is truly laughable.
A man with nary a drop of noble blood in his veins, playing mastermind, convinced he will rise above his natural station.
It truly is too entertaining. And you believe yourself subtle, as well!

(Dahl steps closer.)

dahl

Care for a sparring match? I'm sure the commander wouldn't mind.
Why, she may be grateful to me if I were to... accidentally kill you.
Advancement among this group and the catharsis of your demise...
(smiles) Yes, this course of action is seeming more sound by the minute.

(Simeon backs away.)

simeon

V-Vade retro, you insane cutthroat!

dahl

...And that's another thing!
You think speaking in ancient Tartaran makes you seem smarter?
Because it doesn't. It just makes you seem pretentious.

simeon

It is not my fault if I am better educated than the masses, is it?

dahl

......
(closes eyes) Sigh... You're not worth the wear your innards would inflict upon my spear.

simeon

...Ahem... Well, I am glad you have returned to your senses.
I understand this is a stressful situation, but please, Dahl.
Take it out on the inquisitors, not on comrades such as myself.
I shall make some rounds now. Farewell, Dahl.

(Simeon leaves.)

dahl

...Look at him scurry away... The very image of relief.
(narrows eyes) ...His back is entirely exposed... There's still time...
No, exercise restraint, Dahl. Exercise restraint...

[Dahl gains 1 Defense.]

Chapter 18 Hestia, Agari, & Pericles

If Agari is alive

pericles

Agari... Forgive me.
After I swore never to leave your side again, I... I nearly...

agari

Dad, please... Stop apologizing...
(smiles) None of it was your fault, and I'm just glad you're back!
I'm so happy, I want to start jumping and dancing...

pericles

(smiles) Go ahead. I would not stop you, Agari.

agari

Haha... I know, but don't worry, I've some decorum.
I don't want to start embarrassing you again this quickly!

pericles

Embarrassing me?! P-Perish the thought!
I could not possibly muster any more pride for you than I already have.
You are a wonderful person, a mighty and valiant knight...
There is no one I respect more. It is my honor to stand as your peer.

hestia

Absolutely. You're a force to be reckoned with, Agari.

agari

O-Oh, shut up, you two...

kyra

Calling her Agari now, Pericles? You never used to do that.

hestia

Oh, Kyra! Right on time!

pericles

As a matter of fact, it is thanks to your brother, Kyra.
Back in Wrexham, young Elias and I spoke of our respective families.
He wondered why I insisted on using her full name, when she prefers Agari...
It got me wondering, as well. Why do I ignore my daughter's wishes?

hestia

(smiles) Wait-- Pfft! You took parenting advice from a kid?
You didn't tell us that before, Peri!

pericles

(serious) I would take parenting advice from anybody. I sorely need it.

agari

You're trying, Dad. That's all I want from you.

pericles

Agariste...

hestia

...Baby steps, Peri. Baby steps.

So! Kyra, remember when I mentioned I was making a little thing for Peri?
Well... Here you go, Peri. This is for you!

pericles

A greatlance...
...Hestia, I never trained in the use of lances.

hestia

I know. That was... Well, that was the joke.
I wanted to pull a fast one on you, if we ever met again.
I don't know what I was thinking. Sorry.

pericles

(smiles) Hah! Well, a gift is a gift. Thank you, Hestia.
Kyra, please see that it finds a suitable owner.

kyra

You have an odd way to express affection, Hestia.

hestia

What can I say. I'm a weirdo.

agari

(smiles) Yep, you sure are. But that's why we love you.

pericles

Indeed. You would not be my greatest friend if I did not value your quirks.

hestia

Guess it's my turn to blush, huh. Heh...

If Agari is dead

pericles

Hestia... Forgive me.
After I swore never to leave your side again, I... I nearly...

hestia

Peri, please, quit apologizing...
(smiles) None of it was your fault, and at least now you're back.

pericles

...Unlike Agari, who can never return...

hestia

Not now, Pericles. Please...

pericles

Ah, I did not mean to...

hestia

Not for me, Peri. For you. Don't bring that up now.
Now's the time to be happy to be alive and together again.
Try to just focus on that now, all right, Peri?

pericles

...It is difficult... So difficult...

kyra

Pericles...

hestia

Oh, Kyra! Right on time!
Remember when I mentioned I was making a little thing for Peri?
Well... Here you go, Peri. This is for you!

pericles

A greatlance...
...Hestia, I never trained in the use of lances.

hestia

I know. That was... Well, that was the joke.
I wanted to pull a fast one on you, if we ever met again.
I don't know what I was thinking. Sorry.

pericles

...A gift is a gift. Thank you, Hestia.
Kyra, please see that it finds a suitable owner.

kyra

You have an odd way to express affection, Hestia.

hestia

I've always been a weirdo. So sorry, Peri...

pericles

I do value your quirks. It's why you are my greatest friend.

hestia

Peri...

Tiresias

tiresias

(smiles) Kyra, I cannot tell you how relieved I am.
I will not lie to you. I saw myself in a casket.

kyra

We aren't out of the woods yet.
There are a lot of battles left for us to fight.

tiresias

(smiles) Yes, but I have a hunch the worst has passed now.
After huddling in a derelict fort waiting for the end to come,
anything seems like a walk in the park, don't you think?

kyra

I guess...
So you won't go back to the battlefield anymore?

tiresias

I should've known.
Kyra, I understand your qualms. They are entirely reasonable.
But how can I remain in the safety of the encampment,
now that I have tasted for myself the dangers you face every day?
I believe I have proven I am capable of being an asset, in my own way.

kyra

You're woefully inexperienced, Tiresias!

tiresias

Experience can be gotten.
...Look, I won't force you to bring me along going forward.
If you won't have me, that is your choice and I will respect it.
All that I ask is that you consider it.
I know I can't hold a candle to Lady Apate, but what's better than one lifewringer?

kyra

One lifewringer and one blind scholar that isn't completely out of his mind?

tiresias

(smiles) No, silly! TWO lifewringers!

kyra

Okay, fine, you've made your point.
Just swear to me you'll run if you get in trouble.
You come back here and you stay here.
No grand dramas of self-sacrifice. Got it?

tiresias

(smiles) May my soul burn in Hell if I break my oath.

Fazang

kyra

What should I expect when we meet with your comrades, Fazang?

fazang

We are not numerous, and most do not know the Tartaran language.
They are also wary of Tartarans, considering... everything.
I recommend you go directly to the lieutenants, Jingyi and Xinyi.
Xinyi is a diplomat as well as a soldier. She is fluent in your language.

kyra

Hmm.
What of your commander? He doesn't speak Tartaran?

fazang

He did. He is dead.
He perished during the initial ambush.
The two lieutenants have taken command since.

kyra

I see...

Er, I hope this doesn't come across the wrong way, but uh...
I don't know much about the eastern countries.
Is there anything in particular I should or shouldn't do?
I don't want to offend anyone...

fazang

We are soldiers, Kyra, and in dire straits at that.
Nobody will hold unintentional acts of disrespect against you.
As long as they genuinely are unintentional.

But I do appreciate the question. When greeting others, we bow.
Do not look into the other's eyes when bowing, however.
That is considered defiant.

kyra

That's simple enough.

fazang

It's a small gesture of goodwill that should go a long way.
I pray for our partnership to get off to a good start.

Wulfric & Eupraxia

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

wulfric

Lady Eupraxia.

eupraxia

(smiles) Ah, Wulfric. So nice to see you.
Would you like to share a cup of tea with me?

wulfric

(smiles) I was afraid it would be rude to ask.

If Eupraxia is a Holy Mage

wulfric

(serious) ...Lady Eupraxia, I wish to ask you what ails you.

eupraxia

Me? I'm well.
At least, as well as one can be, in these times of turmoil.

wulfric

Forgive me, but I must cast doubt on that claim.
The others may not have noticed, but...
I suppose I know you well enough that I have.

If Eupraxia is a General

eupraxia

(frowns) Hmm... You have a curious look in your eyes, Wulfric.
(smiles) Ah, hold a moment. I believe I understand.
Still surprised to see me like this, are you, my young friend?

wulfric

I do not believe there is a soul in this camp that does not share my shock.
Wheresoever I walk, I hear whispers of jealousy from warriors half your age.
It beggars belief. You must have been an exceptional knight in your prime.

eupraxia

Bah... That is far from the truth, I assure you.
A truly exceptional knight would not have...

wulfric

Yes?

eupraxia

Ah, I digress. Do pardon me.
I do not wish to bore you with meaningless tales.

wulfric

...As a matter of fact, Eupraxia... If you wish to speak to somebody...

eupraxia

Hmm? Well, we are speaking right now...

wulfric

You are filled with an overwhelming sadness.

eupraxia

......
I may have been a hermit, but in the end, I too am Tartaran.
It is deeply unpleasant, watching my homeland commit such atrocities.

wulfric

No, the pain I sense in you differs from that of your fellow Tartarans.
It is pain that has made a home of your heart. Old, deep-seated sorrow...

If Eupraxia is a General

Sorrow that harkens back to the days when you wore that armor, perhaps?

eupraxia

You're more perceptive than you let on, Wulfric.

......
Forgive me. You and Tiresias were the first friends I'd made in many years.
And yet... I do not believe I am ready to share my past with another.

wulfric

Hmm... Well... If you would hear me out...
I'd like to tell you of my own past, Lady Eupraxia.

eupraxia

Oh?

wulfric

I was the heir to one of Glamorgan's margravates.

eupraxia

Ah, at last, your noble bearing is explained.

wulfric

Indeed... But to tell you the truth? I always cursed my nobility.
I had three younger siblings, but there was no love lost between us.
They each only viewed me as an obstacle in their way to the throne.
At social events, relatives and peers would warmly shake my hand,
before retreating to the shadows to whisper and conspire.
I was alone.

eupraxia

......

wulfric

Eventually, I fell victim to an... unfortunate accident.
Luck saved my life, but I knew it had been an accident in name only.
That was it. I could not stand it any longer. I departed then and there.
I severed all ties with my kith and kin, letting them assume me dead.

eupraxia

......

wulfric

Do you not believe me?
They say blood is thicker than water. This is considered a universal truth.
Even Tiresias seemed bewildered when I revealed all of this to him.

eupraxia

I believe you. This is a pain I know well.
Is that why you have told me this story?

wulfric

......
My deepest apologies. I have been insufferably impertinent.

eupraxia

Not at all. I appreciate the intimate conversation.
...Tell me, what became of your wayward family?

wulfric

I rode through my erstwhile home with Tiresias, once.
I left him at an inn and made a few inquiries about the state of the place.
...Our manor had burned to ashes years earlier. None survived.
Some cousin I barely knew inherited rulership of the margravate.
I did not dare to attract attention with any further questions.

eupraxia

Power often trumps filial bonds, in my experience.
But in the end, your kindness earned you a true companion.
Perhaps the Mother does reward the righteous, after all.

wulfric

(smiles) I am a happy man now, Lady Eupraxia.
I hope you find solace from your inner demons,
whatever their origin may be.

eupraxia

(smiles) Perhaps I'm already on my way. Thank you, Wulfric.

[Wulfric and Eupraxia gain C-rank support with each other.]

Begoña, Fango, & López

kyra

Hey!

(López jumps.)

López

Gah! Sweet Mother of mercy, don't sneak up on people like that!

fango

Did someone else file a complaint about López's smell?

López

The joke's never been funny, Fango, and it only gets more tiresome each time.

fango

(smiles) Well, I think it's funny.

López

Your face is funny!

kyra

Quit bickering already!

López

Gulp...!

fango

W-What is it, Commander?
We've been behaving! I swear on my mother!

López

Your mother's dead, you idiot!

fango

That's such an insensitive thing to say, you butthead!

kyra

Enough!

(Fango and López jump.)

kyra

I... wanted to thank you.

López

......

fango

...Say wha...?

kyra

I'm shocked at the words coming out of my mouth too, trust me.
But at this point, I owe you lot this and more.
You've had a hundred chances to run away since the prison.
But through thick and thin, you've stuck by us.
Even at our lowest, staring death in the eye, you didn't flinch.

fango

Uh... I dunno 'bout López, but I feel like I make a difference with ya.
I know I'll just fade from the pages of history by the end.
But I like the thought that I helped to make something good, y'know?
Maybe a world where people don't got to resort to thievery, even...

López

I've never been the idealistic sort, Commander.
My entire life's been a pile of horse excrement.
...Up until we joined you. That's when it got good.
Me, Fango and the boss, fightin' for justice...
Honestly? Wouldn't mind dyin' for this. Not one bit.

If Begoña is alive

fango

Neither would I!
I'd love to squash into a fine paste for the cause!

López

I mean, I'd rather stay alive, but I agree with the sentiment.
I think... Fango, what are you even talking about, man...?

(Begoña butts in.)

Begoña

Oi! What's goin' on here?
You better not be bullyin' my mates, runt!
They ain't done nothin' to deserve it this time!
...If we've done anythin' that warrants a scoldin',
lemme take the brunt of it, 'aight? Leave 'em out of it.

kyra

They haven't, and somehow neither have you, Begoña.
What happened in the past seems so far away now.
You've become some of my most trusted comrades.
(smiles) Keep up the good work, people. Thank you.

(Kyra leaves.)

Begoña

Wha...

(Begoña approaches the others.)

Begoña

The heck? Did she just praise and thank us...?

López

(grins) Sure did, boss! We're Commander Kyra's favorites now!

fango

(grins) I can't believe it! After all my life thinkin' I'd never amount to anythin'!

Begoña

(smiles) Awww, my boys...! It's all thanks to you!
Who knows where I'd be without ya! My right and left hand!
This deserves a celebration!

fango

Group hug?

López

I'm thinking group hug!

[The brigands all gain 2 Luck, and their support is increased to rank B.]

If Begoña is dead

fango

Just like the boss didn't mind...

López

Yeah...

kyra

...I'm sorry about Begoña. Seriously.
I know we didn't always see eye to eye, but...
I'm... I wish I could've saved her. I really do.

fango

She gave her life for this, Commander.
Now it's up to ya to make sure she didn't die for nothin'.

López

To ya... And to us. We're all in this together.
That's what she always said...

kyra

I'll never forget her.
As for you... You've become some of my most trusted comrades.
Thank you. Truly.

(Kyra leaves.)

López

...S-Sniff... Guhh...

(López sobs.)

D-Dammit...
Fango, I hadn't cried in, what, 17 years...?

fango

Didn't think you even knew how t-to...
Sniff... Ahhh, here it comes too...

(López cries.)

López

(closes eyes) Waaaaaaaahhh! Boooooooooss...!

(Fango cries.)

fango

(closes eyes) Why'd ya hafta die, boss...?! W-Whyyyyyyy?!

Polonius & Ofelia

kyra

......
(closes eyes) (All right, don't mind them. Just walk past and maybe they won't...)

???

Urrrgh!

Auuuugh!

(Polonius and Ofelia fall over. Kyra startles.)

kyra

Ouch...! Those were bad falls. Are you two all right?

polonius

Eeheeheeheeheehee!
Your timing, Commander, is as perfect as ever!
Just in time to behold my total success!

ofelia

Total success, brother? More like absolute failure.
I clearly fell a second after you did.

polonius

Eeheeheeheehee! You dare to defy me, sister?!
None can defeat me, for I am the great necromancer, Polonius!

kyra

Is anyone going to explain, or...?

ofelia

Explain what, Commander?

kyra

Oh, I don't know. Maybe why you two were doing a headstand just now?

ofelia

Ah, that. It's a tradition of sorts we have had since childhood.
Whenever we get into a disagreement, this is how we settle matters.
We stand on our hands as long as we can, and whoever falls last is the winner.

kyra

Yes, that does sound like something normal people like you would do.

polonius

And thus, my point is proven! Eeheeheeheeheehee!
So sorry, sister, but you should've known better than to challenge me!

ofelia

(smiles) Hmm... Actually, this is quite providential.
Commander, you happened upon us at the most convenient time.
You bore witness to our competition. Tell us - which one of us won?

polonius

Ahh, I see, I see! Desperate, are we, sister mine?
You would place the onus of your defeat upon the commander!
So be it. I have utmost confidence in my power and abilities!
Commander... Confess, and dare not lie, for I shall know!
Which of us has claimed victory, and which, bitter defeat?!

kyra

I... I didn't even see you fall. My eyes were closed.

ofelia

We all have things to do, so please. Let's not waste time.
Name the victor, Commander.

kyra

“Let's not waste time?” The gall of... Okay, fine!
Wanna know who won?! Here's who won!

Polonius Won

polonius

(grins) Eeheeheeheehee!
I misestimated you, Commander. You hold great darkness in you!
I am pleased by this outcome. Greatly pleased! Eeheeheehee!

ofelia

Ah, worry not. I shan't hold a grudge.

kyra

Won't you?

ofelia

How could I? You are suffering enough as it is.
Why, I sympathize. I understand completely why you did this.
It must be difficult, standing next to such beauty, such grace,
fully aware of how undesirable you are in comparison.

kyra

......

polonius

W-Wow... You did not need to strike so violently, Ofelia.
Need I remind you, though her power pales before mine...
She still could break you in half, sister.

ofelia

Ah... P-Perhaps I got a tad carried away, Commander.
Forgive me. I've long loathed being bested in anything...

kyra

Hey. Polonius?

polonius

Hmmmmmmmmm?

kyra

Drag your sister out of my sight before I really get mad.

ofelia

...Oh, dear...

polonius

Eeheeheehee!

(The actors run away.)

kyra

......
(closes eyes) Sigh... There's the headache again... Always, with these two...

Ofelia Won

ofelia

(smiles) It's only natural.

polonius

...Rrgh... Commander! You incur my wrath!
I was obviously the winner! It was plain as day!
How dare you deny me the satisfaction of victory?!
Fool! Now you will suffer the great necromancer's curse of agony!
You will be swept up by my wondrous power, you insignificant, lowly worm!

kyra

......

ofelia

E-Er... Polonius, I really do not believe you should provoke her...
I mean, not to doubt your, uh, wondrous power, but...
I don't think you want to find yourself beneath her fists...

(Polonius squirms.)

polonius

Eeheehee?
Come now, the commander knows it's all in good fun...
She knows I would never turn my marvelous powers against her!
Is that not so, Commander?

kyra

Hey. Ofelia?

ofelia

What is it?

kyra

Drag your brother out of my sight before I really get mad.

ofelia

By your command.

polonius

No! I am no coward! Let me make my last stand!

(Ofelia drags Polonius away.)

kyra

......
(closes eyes) Sigh... There's the headache again... Always, with these two...

"You're both losers."

polonius

......

ofelia

......
Very mature, Commander. Truly.

polonius

Eeheeheeheeheehee! Such boldness! I love it!
She has denied us both the supple fruit of victory! Astoundingly wicked!
Our only recourse is to begrudge her together, sister...

ofelia

You make it sound more impressive than it truly is.
The only thing she has denied here is her own decisiveness.

polonius

No victors today. Not even her.
Dare I even say, she has won the least!
Eeheeheehee!

kyra

You got it all out of your systems?
Good. Now you can go ahead and tell me what you were fighting over.

ofelia

Hmph... Now you care, all of a sudden?

polonius

Eeheeheeheehe... We were pondering whose are the grandest garments!
My vibrant dark regalia, versus her serene bright cloak!
Good versus evil! Dark versus light! Order versus chaos! Eeheehee!

ofelia

I've been telling you for years, Polonius.
You love your garish colors far too much for your own good.
They do you no favors at all. Surely even you must see that.

polonius

And who do you presume you are to judge me?
You, a woman devoid of all sense of the dramatic!
You, who so revels in menial melancholy and brooding!
Revoltingly mundane! Pwah!

ofelia

Are you calling me boring, you obnoxious oaf?!

(Kyra becomes agitated.)

kyra

That's enough! Stop it! Stop it now!

ofelia

Huh?

polonius

Commander...?

kyra

You should count your lucky stars that you have each other.
Siblings are supposed to get along. Yet you'd bicker over such idiocy?
You're going to make amends right this second, you hear me?
Or at least, if you must fight... Fight somewhere I can't see you.

ofelia

Ah... Commander, I...

kyra

Hmph...

(Kyra storms off.)

polonius

......
The commander, loath as I am to admit it, is correct.
Ah, sister mine... Please, accept my apologies.
We must be allies in darkness, not opponents!

ofelia

Yes... You're right, brother mine.
I know that, despite our bickering, I can rely on you like no other.
(smiles) And, I must admit... Garish though it may be? The hat does suit you.

polonius

Eeheeheehee! Not as much as your shining jewelry suits you!
We truly are the most dazzling display in the world... together!

ofelia

Yes! Yes! Ahahahaha...!

(They leave.)

kyra

(smiles) All right, see? That's better already.

[Ofelia & Polonius' support increases to rank B.]

Vasiliki & Scymerius

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

vasiliki

(smiles) Scymerius! I didn't realize you also joined this army!

scymerius

How's that? I haven't exactly been hiding.

vasiliki

(frowns) Well, it's not like you said hello...

scymerius

What's the point? We barely know each other.

vasiliki

(smiles) What do you mean? We were colleagues!
Us, Fructuoso and Eudoxus. We were a team, right?

scymerius

Those two losers and me? Don't insult me.

(Vasiliki starts.)

vasiliki

(frowns) ...W-Well... I consider you a friend anyway.

scymerius

Then you are an even bigger fool than I had imagined.

vasiliki

......
(smiles) Smile, Vasiliki... Smile through the pain...

scymerius

I do admit I am a tad curious about that, though.
What's this “smile through the pain” thing you're always saying?

vasiliki

Aww, you noticed? I knew you really cared!

scymerius

Tell me or don't. I'm just trying to pass the time.

vasiliki

(serious) Well, it's what my ma told me the day I set out.
“Vasi, if the going gets tough, just smile through the pain!”
So that's what I've been doing.

scymerius

I don't think your mother meant that literally.
...Does it help at all?

vasiliki

(smiles) Yeah! It's hard to stay grumpy with a big smile on your face!

scymerius

Hmm. Maybe I should try it.

(Vasiliki bounces with excitement.)

vasiliki

Ohh, this I have to see!

scymerius

Dream on, chump.

vasiliki

(frowns) Awww...

[Vasiliki and Scymerius gain C-rank support with each other.]

Vasiliki & Fructuoso

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

vasiliki

(smiles) Good morning, Fructuoso!

fructuoso

(smiles) Hey there, lass. What's up?

vasiliki

I'm just happy to be alive!
(frowns) Seriously. That was insanely scary.
You've been a mercenary longer than me, Fructuoso.
Is it... always this way? Is this what the mercenary life is?

fructuoso

'Fraid so. It's a cruel world out there, missy.
Ain't ever too late to call it quits, though.
You got a family waiting for you, after all.

vasiliki

I know, and I'm sure they're worried sick about me.
But... I feel a sense of responsibility here.
Just look at the commander. We're not so different, are we?

fructuoso

I mean, she's taller than you, a few years older...

vasiliki

Way better with a bow. Yeah, yeah, I know...
Still, we're both commoners, huntresses and stuff.
And yet she feels worlds apart from the likes of me...
She's been through so much, and yet she's still keeping it together.
If she can manage it, why shouldn't I be able to do the same?
(smiles) I can do it too! I can fight for the good of all too!
So when I come back home, my parents can be real proud of me!

fructuoso

Hahaha... That's a nice little dream you got there.

vasiliki

What's your dream, Fructuoso?

fructuoso

(serious) Me? Beyond living to see the next day? Well...
(smiles) I always thought being a knight might be nice.

vasiliki

That's it? That's easy! You can totally do that!

fructuoso

(frowns) Life's often not so simple, my friend...
(smiles) But listening to you, it almost does seem that way.
Yeah... Maybe even an old scoundrel like me can have dreams, too.

vasiliki

We just gotta fight like hell to make them a reality!

fructuoso

Hear, hear!

[Vasiliki and Fructuoso gain C-rank support with each other.]

Scymerius & Fructuoso

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

scymerius

Fascinating. You're still alive.

fructuoso

I-I can't believe it myself.
None of us should've survived that mess...
I don't know whether to thank the Mother, the commander or...

scymerius

Thank your abilities, for they are the ones that got you through.
And Lady Apate. That woman is something else.
But mostly thank yourself. Stand proud, man.
You've stared death in the eye and come out on top.

fructuoso

(smiles) That's awfully nice of you, Scymerius...
Didn't know you knew how to do that.

scymerius

Do what?

fructuoso

Well... Be nice!

scymerius

Ha ha ha. Very funny.
I wouldn't call it “nice”. It's respect, plain and simple.
The first day I saw you I could barely contain my laughter.
But that ridiculous hodgepodge you call “armor” gets the job done.
And if it gets the job done, it doesn't matter how silly it looks.
In fact, that might even work to your advantage.
Makes your enemies lower their guard. Quite clever, honestly.

fructuoso

I-I'd love to claim credit for that, but I can't. I didn't think it through so much.
It started years ago, when I was still a bandit. Knights ambushed us.
My mates got cut down to the last, but I managed to save myself...
By picking up the chestplate of a fallen soldier and using it as a shield.

scymerius

Huh. I would've thought you'd picked up the hobby of looting bodies from...
Well, looting bodies. That's something brigands do, isn't it?

(Fructuoso shifts embarrasedly.)

fructuoso

P-Please! I have some modicum of shame!
I never looted bodies. Heck, I never wanted to kill anyone...

scymerius

So you weren't cut out for the life of a cutthroat.

fructuoso

Okay, that's more like the usual Scymerius. Blunt and mocking...

scymerius

How's that mocking, you silly goose? It's a good thing.
It's the reason you're alive and fighting for a respectable cause,
instead of lying dead in a ditch somewhere like the rest of your ilk.

fructuoso

...Huh... That's a fair point.

[Fructuoso and Scymerius gain C-rank support with each other.]

Chapter 19 Hestia & Tiresias

hestia

Tiresias and I have been hard at work these past few days.

tiresias

It's looking like things are going to escalate quickly now.
We are working overtime so we can keep up.

kyra

What have you mad geniuses been cooking up?

hestia

Well, it took a bit of effort, but we can make better light tomes for you now.

kyra

Already? That was faster than I'd have expected.

tiresias

The forbidden magics really aren't that complicated.
Who would've thought, huh? Reality is often disappointing.

hestia

Also, I'm upping my game with the regular gear.
I've gotten a lot better at my craft over the course of our adventure.
I can now make you all the steel weapons you want.
...As long as you provide money for the materials, as usual.

tiresias

She's told me a bit about the economic side of her business.
Goodness. Things are bad, Kyra.

hestia

I'm not a bargaining genius like some folks out there.
We could use more of those. They really help with the budget issues.

kyra

You're winning this war for us, you two.

tiresias

(smiles) Aww, please.

hestia

Don't mention it, girl.

Pericles

pericles

Kyra. I wish to speak.

kyra

What about?

pericles

I've been brought up to speed. About the knight, and...

kyra

I really would rather not talk about that, Pericles.

pericles

I know, but I want there to be no misunderstanding between us.

kyra

...Wait, you're worried I'm going to think you're also...?
C'mon, Pericles. Really? I trust you. You don't need to do this.

pericles

All the same, I wish to tell you everything. The reason I fight...

kyra

......
All right, Pericles. I'm listening.

pericles

(closes eyes) Sigh...
(opens eyes) You may have heard the manner of man I was years ago.

kyra

The rising star of the theocracy, I believe is the usual description.

pericles

I was a devout believer and a staunch supporter of our glorious nation.
I even had my eyes set on the title of Grand Inquisitor.
In hindsight, that would have just put a target on my back for Sandraudiga.
In sum, however, I was the model inquisitor. A paragon of knighthood.

kyra

Uh huh...

pericles

In all this, I did what any man seeking success in life should do. So I thought.
I married a wife to take care of my home, and had a child to carry on my legacy.

kyra

That's... an awfully selfish way to look at that kind of thing.

pericles

Isn't it? The moment Agari could walk, I stopped going home.
I fought the hierophant's wars, punished his enemies and climbed the ranks.
Until one day... My unit was to be deployed in the Kingdom of Zhu.
On the first night of our journey, we stopped at my wife's hometown.
I was from the capital, while she was from one of the nearby settlements.
I decided it would only be proper to stop by for a quick visit.

kyra

I'm guessing something really bad happened there...

pericles

I discovered that my wife was dying.

kyra

...Just like that, huh...

pericles

She had been sick for weeks. Gravely sick.
I tried to ask Agari for more details, but...
She merely looked at me with this terrible look of resentment.
Then she told me something I had forgotten... Nay.
Something I didn't care to remember. That day, it was her birthday.

kyra

Uh oh...

pericles

I sought Hestia's counsel. She was my best friend, after all.
But then, I... discovered something else. A secret. One Agari knew.
Because unlike myself, Hestia cared enough to visit my family in my stead.
...And this secret, it was one she had been too afraid to tell me...

kyra

......
What happened after that?

pericles

I spent the night with my wife. Then I was forced to depart.
It took five weeks to wrestle a leave of absence from my superiors.
By then, she had passed away and the funeral had already taken place.

It was then that I realized in full, what a horrible person I am.

kyra

You can't blame yourself for what happened to your wife.

pericles

I do not. I blame myself for not caring the least bit about her. About them.
I didn't know my wife, my daughter or my best friend. I only knew my ambitions.
How could I remain unabated in the face of such overwhelming evidence of my folly?
I gave my life to the Mother, and She gleefully took it from me.

kyra

......

pericles

This is why I fight the theocracy.
This... broken country, that strips its servants of their humanity.
But, more than that... I fight myself. I fight the fool I used to be.
I try to find purpose in my wretched life, while I still cling on to it.

kyra

......
You know... I'm pretty sure Agari and Hestia both forgave you long ago.
I think you're the only one who still hasn't forgiven you...

pericles

What right have I to do so?
No. I must forever carry this burden. Such is the cost of my mistakes.

kyra

Well... All I can tell you is that, as far as I'm concerned, this changes nothing.
You saved Redbeard's life. I don't know how I would've managed if I lost him.
I never met the old Pericles, but for the new one, I only have gratitude.
And... I don't think anyone'd celebrate if you didn't survive this war.
Keep that in mind next time your heart whispers poisoned words into your ear.

pericles

......
Thank you, Kyra. That means more than you know.

[Pericles gains 1 Strength.]

Xinyi & Jingyi

kyra

Forgive me for not introducing myself earlier, you two.
I'm Kyra. What are your names?

xinyi

I am Xinyi, lieutenant of the 5th Jade platoon.
Or what's left of it, at any rate.

kyra

I'm sorry about your troops...

xinyi

(smiles) Don't be. Zhulite warriors know how to be slippery.
Our men are scattered, but I suspect not dead.
Wherever they are, they will survive.

kyra

Oh... That's good to hear.

xinyi

(Jingyi, the commander has formally introduced herself.)
(She also apologizes for not doing so earlier.)

jingyi

(smiles) (Ahh, tell her that's perfectly fine!)
(I wouldn't have wanted to interrupt her happy reunion with her father.)

(Jingyi salutes.)

jingyi

(Lieutenant Jingyi, 6th Jade platoon, at your command!)

xinyi

Ahaha... Lieutenant Jingyi, at your command.

kyra

What else did he say that's so funny?

xinyi

(smiles) He said he didn't want to interrupt your reunion with your father.

kyra

My-- Wait, what?

xinyi

I won't lie, I also thought of that, the way he talked about you.

kyra

Redbeard talked about me?

xinyi

And nothing else as long as he was in our care.

kyra

...Huh.
Well, nevermind that. I'll let you settle in.

xinyi

(Anything else you'd like me to say to her, Jingyi?)

jingyi

(I like her hair!)

xinyi

Er... Jingyi likes your hair, Commander.

kyra

My... hair?
Huh. I've never bothered to do anything with it, though.
(smiles) Tell him thanks! I guess.

xinyi

(She says thanks.)

jingyi

(You're welcome, you're welcome!)

Barlowe & Edward

edward

(smiling) And then, and then, she said,
“Stop horsing around!”

barlowe

(smiles) Hahahaha! That's absolutely terrible, Edward!

kyra

Oh, no... Don't tell me you're telling THAT joke to the margrave.
I'd thank you if you didn't lose us one of our most important supporters.

edward

(frowns) Meh. Everyone's a critic...

barlowe

Oh, fret not, Kyra. I am unfazed by this.
I have heard far worse jokes from this man in the past.

edward

(smiles) Pfeh. You never did have a single funny bone in you.
...Say! I promised to tell you how Barlowe and me met, right?

kyra

Yeah, before... Well, everything fell apart.

edward

No time like the present! Hmm, where to start...

barlowe

At the beginning would be best.

Decades ago, I returned from the Tartaran frontlines, having made a name for myself.
For my deeds, a piece of Glamorgan soil was split and granted to me to rule over.

kyra

Didn't know they created Wrexham just for you.

barlowe

In retrospect, they likely did it so I would bear the brunt of Tartaros's reprisal.
But I was a younger man then. Foolish. Not unlike Zaccheus, Simeon and their ilk.
The mere promise of lands and people to lord over had me beaming with pride.
However, to me, it was but the first step in my rise to greatness unparalleled...

kyra

I won't lie, I have a hard time picturing you acting that way.

edward

You do now. Wasn't so hard back then.

kyra

So, what happened between then and now?
With age comes wisdom, is that it?

barlowe

Not exactly. Have you ever read the stories of Robin Cape, Kyra?

kyra

The righteous rogue? Yeah, the local library had some of those.
Reading's never been my strong suit, but I loved those as a kid.
I always wanted to be like her...

barlowe

Well, you're not the only one.
My soaring potential met a most vexing obstacle.

edward

(smirks) Me.

barlowe

Edward here led a small band of scoundrels at the time.
The “steal from the rich, give to the poor” type, straight out of a fable.
I never believed they truly existed, then one goes and picks me for a nemesis.

edward

We gave him no shortage of headaches...
Turned him into the laughingstock of Wrexham for a while, we did!

kyra

C'mon, don't try to pull my leg.
There's no way you actually stood a chance against the margrave.

edward

Hey! I may be no world-class tactician, but--

barlowe

No, you've the right of it, Kyra. Soon enough, I had him cornered.
But, uh... I was overconfident. I confronted him myself.
That... did not end so well. In a brawl, he was always my better.
I was forced to watch, from the ground, as he made his escape.

edward

(grins) You shoulda seen his face! He nearly bursted with rage!

kyra

That's a fun story, but uh...
I'm not seeing how that could've led to lifelong friendship.

barlowe

Hmmm... Oh, dear. Look at us, Edward.
Yapping away like the ancient relics that we are.
I do believe we have wasted enough of our leader's time.

edward

You speak for yourself! I feel as young as a wee parr!

...But yeah, sometimes I forget how busy you are these days, lassie.
Real sorry about that.

kyra

Oh, c'mon, really? Don't just stop in the middle of the story!
It's... rude. Improper? Keep going, dammit!

edward

(smiles) Don't worry, don't worry. We'll finish next time.

kyra

You better.

barlowe

(smiles) Hohoho... Never forget that patience is a virtue, my girl.

Jane & Conan

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

jane

Oh! Hello... I was just passing through...

conan

Margravine Delilah's right hand woman, are you not?

jane

Er, yep. That's me. Jane's the name.

conan

Your daily routine does not often bring you through the mess hall.

jane

O-Oh, well, I uh...
I don't like crowds, that's all.

conan

I understand.

jane

...Do I have something on my face?

conan

Yours is an impressive body.
Carefully sculpted with hard work and maintained dutifully.
Were you perhaps an arena fighter at one point?

jane

N-No... I don't know, is my strength really all that special?
I never thought much of it. I like working out, that's all.
(smiles) It's relaxing, and there's so many ways to do it, I never get bored!

conan

(smiles) Ahh, yes, exercise for the sake of it is one of life's small delights.
It is indeed quite satisfying, watching one's body improve.
Even at my age, I am proud to say my muscles have yet to fail me.

jane

I-I can see that. You look like you could lift me up with one hand...

conan

Bah. That is hardly the case, I assure you.
I may cling on to my prime yet, but miracles I cannot perform.

jane

(smiles) You're so polite and well-spoken. It's so pleasant, talking to you.

conan

Likewise, my girl, likewise.
This camp houses a wide variety of people, each with their own designs.
I appreciate meeting one of such a simple mind and pure intentions.

jane

(frowns) S-Simple and pure? Me? C'mon, give me a break...
I mean, sure, I'm not a brainiac like some of the folks around here.
Some mornings I forget to buckle up my boots.
But that just makes me dumb, not pure.
I can percolate some wickedness of my own on occasion.
(smiles) ...I read that word in a pamphlet the other day. Percolate.
I've been dying to use it somehow. I-I hope I did it right...

conan

(smiles) Hmm... Now you have piqued my curiosity.
Would you whisper one such wickedness to me?

(Jane leans forward conspiratorially.)

jane

...O-One time, at lunch... I stole someone else's dessert.
I worked out a mite too much that morning. I was famishing!
I felt so bad, the following morning I slipped my dessert into their pack.
...But then they caught me and thought I was trying to steal their dessert.
Trying to explain I was making up for stealing it the day before didn't help.
Boy, did I have to run fast that day...

(Conan guffaws.)

conan

Hohohohohahahahaha!
Ahh... Ahaha... Ahem... Hmph...

(Jane moves back.)

jane

D-D-Don't laugh at me! I told you this in confidence!

conan

Forgive me. It's just, this is exactly what I meant.
Please, take care out there. The world needs more people like you.
And less people like my former employer, that contemptible rat...

jane

Whoa... Which one was your guy, again?

conan

...It doesn't matter. I have a new chief now.
One I am proud to follow, for once.

jane

Yeah, Commander Kyra is really something, isn't she.

O-Oh, but I really should be going. I was in a hurry to... Uhh...

(Jane huffs.)

jane

Drat, now I forgot why I came here in the first place!

(Jane leaves.)

conan

(smiles) Hahaha...
Incredible how such a hulking mountain of a person can be so adorable.

[Jane and Conan gain C-rank support with each other.]

Jane & Dahl

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

jane

Oh! Hello... I was just passing through...

dahl

You're that margravine's retainer, are you not?

jane

Er, yep. That's me. Jane's the name.

dahl

It's nice to meet you. I don't see you around the mess hall often.

jane

O-Oh, well, I uh...
I don't like crowds, that's all.

dahl

Hmm...

jane

...Do I have something on my face?

dahl

A few scars, but that's not what I'm looking at.
You've a positively imposing physique.
With your strength, you could be a terror... But you're not.
You don't try to be. Why is that, I wonder?

jane

dahl

You're saying you don't have your sights set... higher?
There's no ultimate goal for which you build up your power?

jane

(frowns) Uhh... No?
C'mon, look at me. Some mornings I forget to buckle up my boots.
I couldn't percolate a fancy plan like that if I tried.
(smiles) ...I read that word in a pamphlet the other day. Percolate.
I've been dying to use it somehow. I-I hope I did it right...

dahl

Huh. Often I do forget that not everyone has an agenda.
I'm so used to working with nobles and the like.
And, of course... I have never been one for resignation, myself.

jane

Well, what's your big plan, man?

dahl

(grins) I'm glad you asked! I've been working towards it for years.
One day... I will be margrave of one united Glamorgan!

jane

Oh, that's it?

(Dahl sputters.)

dahl

W-What do you mean, “that's it?”

jane

Well, I've heard that one before.
My mistress... That is, Margravine Delilah often fantasized about that.
It really got her going, too. She'd start cackling like mad every time...
Do you cackle madly when you imagine yourself as margrave?

dahl

No! That's... That's just asinine!
...Okay, maybe I do... cackle a little, but--

jane

(smiles) You're two peas in a pod. Maybe you should've been hers.
What was your guy like?

dahl

Small.
That's really the best way to describe him. Small.

jane

It's... not like you're that tall yourself.

(Dahl sputters.)

dahl

I-I don't mean it like that! I mean... I...
Oh, why am I still talking to you? Peon!

(Dahl leaves.)

jane

...Okay then? Bye to you too...
Drat, and now I forgot why I came here in the first place!

narrator

Support Lv... increased...?

[Jane and Dahl gain C-rank support with each other.]

Teresa & Zaccheus

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

zaccheus

(smiles) Oho... Oh my. What do we have here?

teresa

Er... I'm not sure I like the way you're looking at me.
Or the way you look, for that matter...
You look like the kind of guy who'll make all the predictable jokes.

zaccheus

(still smiling) I am amused, that is all.
Who are you? A camp follower?

teresa

No, actually, I'm a wyvern rider.

zaccheus

Ahah! And the comedy act continues! You, a warrior of the skies?

teresa

Ah, yes, here we go. Gee, how can the wyvern fly with me sitting on it?
Hardy har har. I've heard the whole repertoire.
You can save yourself the effort.

zaccheus

(frowns) ......

teresa

......
Sooo... You got anything else where that came from, or can you go?
I'd like to have dinner in peace.

zaccheus

(smirks) Hmph. Lowborn trash, entirely devoid of all manners.
Is this how you speak to one of higher birth?
It would behoove you to learn your place.

teresa

Okay, you know what?
I'm gonna go tell the commander to put you back in the storeroom.

(Zaccheus flinches.)

zaccheus

(frowns) Hold! Hold, you knave! Y-You can't do that!

teresa

And why not? If you're not gonna stop pestering me--

zaccheus

Pestering, me?!
I grant the pleasure - the honor! - of my company to you, and you would cast me to the dusty shadows of that hellish room anew?!
Baseborn mice do not often pique my interest! Be grateful!

teresa

...Hold on, what are you getting at?

zaccheus

(smiles) Hmph. That's more like it.
Trust me, many women would KILL for the chance to engage in idle chatter with me.
This is not an easily afforded opportunity. Try harder to grasp the immensity of--

(Teresa balks.)

teresa

(grins) Wait, wait, wait! Are you coming on to me?!

(Zaccheus sputters.)

zaccheus

I-I beg your pardon?! Did you just ask if I...? Why, I! I-I...

teresa

Ahahahaha! Oh, that'd be so cute if you weren't so disgusting.
Keep trying, loverboy. Slimy toads aren't my type.

zaccheus

Y...You would DARE reject me?! Margrave Zaccheus of Conwy?!

teresa

On the other hand, I do oughta thank you for one thing.
This is going to do wonders for my self-esteem.
Heck, even I can afford to have standards!
(scowls) And you don't meet them. Sorry, pal. Get lost.

(Teresa leaves.)

zaccheus

......

(Zaccheus pounds his fist.)

Gaah! This is so vexing!
Hmph... But a true noble never gives up!
I'll keep close on the battlefield and put my many talents to her aid.
She'll take notice and surely find herself falling for me promptly.
(smirks) Hahaha... Ahh, Zaccheus, you are just too good.

narrator

Support Lv... increased...?

[Zaccheus gains a one-sided B-rank support with Teresa.]

Teresa & Simeon

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

simeon

Ah, at long last. A servant.
Goodness gracious, where have you been?

teresa

......
Hold on, you're talking to me?

simeon

Who else? You ARE a servant, are you not?

teresa

What exactly gave you that impression?

simeon

I just saw you bringing food for everyone in this table.

teresa

Well... Yeah, I was going to get some for me anyway.
It's called basic courtesy, not that I expect you to know what that is.

simeon

Fascinating. Alas, your poor work ethic has more than earned a cavil.
I have notified that my clothes require cleaning, yet untouched they remain.
I am down to my last pair of undergarments! This is unacceptable!

teresa

I think there's some kind of misunderstanding here.
I clean my own bloomers, like everyone else does.
Where do you think you are? We aren't even a proper army.

(Simeon becomes agitated.)

simeon

Why, the audacity! This is simply too much!
It is not enough that I am forced on this journey,
but I am to live in such deplorable conditions?!
I demand proper service be provided for the troops!

teresa

I guess I'm not surprised. That ridiculous thing on your eye made it clear you're--
Wait, did you say the troops, plural?

simeon

Well, certainly! I am not an imbecile.
If I demand retainers for myself, I'll be laughed out of the room.
Or locked with the accursed supplies again... *Shudders*
The laymen may have privileges if it means I get them as well.
Apropos of nothing, “laymen” would include you.

teresa

(smiles) Heeey... You know what? You're right!
We deserve better! We deserve servants!

simeon

(smiles) That's right! Now you see my perspective!
Clean undergarments for all, today!

(Teresa pounds her fist.)

teresa

Yeah! I want food to be brought to ME at my table!

simeon

Hear, hear! Exotic bath salts for all that risk their lives on the field of battle!
Do we deserve any less?!

teresa

Nay, I say! Nay!

(The two begin causing a ruckus.)

kyra

Locking you with the supplies again, huh... Now there's an idea.

narrator

Support Lv... increased...?

[Simeon and Teresa gain C-rank support with each other.]

Pluto & Órlaith

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

pluto

......

Órlaith

......

pluto

Never stand behind me, woman!

Órlaith

I'm not behind you.

pluto

......
My code of honor forbids me from harming women...

Órlaith

It's okay. You don't need to try to impress me.
We don't have to talk if you don't want to.

pluto

......
What?

Órlaith

I like the silence too.

pluto

......

Órlaith

(smiles) ......

pluto

...It's such a clear night.
I was... going to stargaze.
Would you like to...?

Órlaith

Sure. That sounds relaxing.

pluto

......

Órlaith

......

pluto

Look. That one's so bright...

Órlaith

(smiles) Wow, yeah. Pretty...

pluto

(smiles)......

Órlaith

......

(Órlaith starts.)

Órlaith

Oh! A shooting star! Make a wish, quick!

pluto

Huh? Ah, uh... Er...
Well, I... wish for some... chestnuts?

Órlaith

Pfft! You aren't supposed to say it out loud, silly.

pluto

...To be honest, I forgot the whole tradition.
Haha...ha...

Órlaith

So, uh... Do you just like chestnuts that much, or...?

pluto

W-Well... You caught me off-guard.
I saw your hair, so the first thing that came to mind was... chestnuts.

Órlaith

(smiles) Haha, well... I don't think we can get chestnuts here.

pluto

(smiles) ...T-That's fine...

Órlaith

......

pluto

......

[Pluto and Órlaith gain C-rank support with each other.]

Nikolaos & Delilah

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

If Jane is alive

nikolaos

(grins) (Finally... She's alone. Took long enough...)
(Now's my chance. Hehehe...)

(Nikolaos approaches.)

nikolaos

Hey there!

delilah

(smirking) What do we have here... I do not believe you've had the pleasure.

nikolaos

Nikolaos is the name, m'lady. I'm a spear-for-hire.
At present, happily working for this bunch, but...
Well, one's got to look to the future, you know?
This war won't last forever, after all.

delilah

Ah, say no more. You wish to offer your services to me, come the end.

nikolaos

Got it in one!
I'm pretty good, if I do say so myself. You wouldn't regret hiring me.

delilah

Hmm... Let me ask you a few little questions, if you don't mind.
Tell me... Do you fly upon a pegasus?

nikolaos

(frowns) Huh? A pegasus?

delilah

Few are those trained in the art of flight upon those majestic beasts,
and the grand majority of them are in the service of Tartaros's inquisition.
But the concept of mercenary riders of pegasi is not entirely unheard of.

nikolaos

Er, well... That's not me, sorry. I don't fly.

delilah

Such a crying shame... Oh, but please, fret not.
Pegasus knights are a rare commodity. I never expected that much of you.

nikolaos

...What...?

delilah

(frowns) ...Still, it didn't hurt to ask. I really would like a pegasus knight.

If Nicaea is alive

delilah

I tried introducing myself to that one we have, with the silver locks...
Not only did she not reply, she directed the most hate-filled glare at me!
For no reason! I did nothing to offend her! I merely wished to converse!
And perhaps make an offer to her... No sense of opportunity, that one.
Alas. Some people, eh?

nikolaos

R-Right... Well, I've got other talents to offer.

delilah

(smiles) Do you ride a horse into battle, perchance?

nikolaos

Nope! I tried sitting on one once. Didn't end well.
Honestly, best to just stray from the topic of animals entirely...

delilah

How magically inclined are you?

nikolaos

Well, there was this one time I found a fire tome on the side of the road.
...I haven't been able to grow a beard ever since, but with more practice...

delilah

Hunting? First aid? Commanding abilities? Musical talent?

nikolaos

......
I'm pretty good with a lance?

delilah

Ahahaha... I'm sure you are.
Thank you for the diversion. Truly.
I was starting to grow bored, all alone here awaiting Jane's return.
Please, take this as a token of my... appreciation.
Don't spend it all in one place, and do try to hold your excitement.

(Nikolaos balks.)

nikolaos

Wha-- You stingy skinflint! A single coin?!
It would have been less insulting to give me nothing!

delilah

That's the idea, sweetie.

nikolaos

Bah! Fine! Who cares? I didn't wanna work for you anyway!
And another thing! Where do you get off belittling me?
As if that giant oaf who follows you around like a lapdog is any better.
Was she just the cheapest option available or what?

delilah

(scowls) ......
I think you had better take your leave now, boy.

nikolaos

Huh...?

delilah

Are your ears full of wax? Leave before you get hurt.

(Nikolaos starts.)

nikolaos

Ack! What'd I do?!

(Delilah approaches menacingly.)

nikolaos

O-Okay, okay! I'm going, I'm going!
Sheesh... Some people indeed...

(Nikolaos leaves.)

delilah

...Hmph... Filthy troglodyte. How dare you denigrate my...
(eyes droop) ......

If Jane is dead

nikolaos

(grins) (All right, Nikolaos. This is your chance...)
(Just turn on the charm, and you've got this in the bag.)

(Nikolaos approaches.)

nikolaos

Hey there!

delilah

(frowning) ......
Ah... I do not believe you've had the pleasure.

nikolaos

Nikolaos is the name, m'lady. I'm a spear-for-hire.
At present, happily working for this bunch, but...
Well, one's got to look to the future, you know?
This war won't last forever, after all.

delilah

I see... You wish to offer your services to me.

nikolaos

Got it in one!
I'm pretty good, if I do say so myself. You wouldn't regret hiring me.

delilah

......
I'll pass, thank you.

(Nikolaos balks.)

nikolaos

Wha-- Are you kidding me? Just like that?! Why?!
C'mon! I know you have a... vacancy? An opening?
A noblewoman like yourself needs protection, and--

delilah

And I recently lost my personal bodyguard...

nikolaos

(smiles) So... Hire me to replace her!

delilah

......

nikolaos

(frowns) ...?

delilah

You? Replace her?
(smiles cruelly) Hah! Don't make me laugh!
You, some talentless, unsightly, carrion-eating man...
You could hardly stand next to her, let alone “replace” her.

nikolaos

But... But... How would you know that?! You haven't even given me a chance!
At least ask me what I'm good at! What I've got to offer!
I'm, er... I'm pretty good with a spear! She was a swordswoman, right?
Lances beat swords! Everyone knows that!

delilah

(scowls) You continue to prattle on, making no motion to leave...
Perhaps I shall try paying you off. That usually works on your kind.
Here. Help yourself. Now get out of my sight.

(Nikolaos balks.)

nikolaos

Wha-- You stingy skinflint! A single coin?!
It would have been less insulting to give me nothing!

delilah

I have given you exactly what you deserve, if not more.

nikolaos

Bah! Fine! Who cares? I didn't wanna work for you anyway!
You can keep going around without protection all you like!
Don't come crying to me when you get robbed, though!

delilah

I can defend myself.

nikolaos

Bah! Actually? I know what your problem is.

delilah

I do not believe that you do, as a matter of fact.

nikolaos

Well, it's downright obvious.

delilah

...Is it...?

nikolaos

You're mad that you paid for that big gal and then she got herself killed!
'Cause that's all you noble types care about. Money!
Hey, don't let me ruin your pity party. Go ahead, keep at it!
You can mourn the loss of your gold the rest of your life, for all I care.

(Nikolaos storms off.)

delilah

......
You have no clue what it is that I have lost, boy.
And... Neither did I, until it was much too late...
(closes eyes) ...Sigh...

Laertes

laertes

(smiles) You are quite the miracle worker, huh, Commander?
I made the right decision in placing my bets on you.

kyra

Uh huh... Been a pleasure to work with you too. I think.

laertes

(serious) Despite my age, I am not the kind that enjoys boring others with long stories.
On the contrary, I try to be succinct where I can.
I appreciate that, as we near total war with Tartaros, your time is limited.
To that end...

kyra

This feels rather foreboding...

laertes

(smiles) I have received word from my sweet granddaughter.
She's so caring... She worries so for her grandfather.
She spent more of the letter wishing me well than telling me how she's been!
(frowns) But then, near the end of the missive, she wrote some concerning news.

kyra

Oh, yeah?

laertes

She lost all of her schoolbooks.
Some rotten bully threw them into the river...!
She's such a brilliant student, so this has left her heartbroken.
But these books, they're so expensive... Oh, it's criminal, I tell you!

kyra

...So now you want me to pay for your granddaughter's books.

laertes

I do not believe I ever ask for much... And I'm doing my very best for you...
Please, I feel terrible imposing on you like this.
But my feelings are irrelevant compared to my granddaughter's wellbeing.

kyra

Sigh... How much?

laertes

1,950 gold would suffice to cover her expenses.

kyra

Upping the number, are we. Well, I...

If you agree

kyra

All right. Help yourself.

laertes

(smiles) You are an angel, Commander Kyra.
The Mother herself would be envious of your virtue.
I should introduce you to her. You would be a great role model for her.
Oh, naturally I mean my granddaughter, not the Mother, haha.
I know she would be all over the moon to make a friend such as you!
A hero akin to those from the tales - nay, better still! A hero unparalleled!
The pride of your nation! The joy of your people!

kyra

Yeah, yeah... What happened to being succinct?

laertes

Do forgive me. I lose myself when I am filled with glee.
May your enemies rue the day they chose to oppose you!

[All of Laertes' stats increase by 2.]

If you refuse

kyra

No can do, sorry.
As you said yourself, we are close to a full-blown conflict with Tartaros.
Every coin we have needs to be spent on gear and resources.

laertes

Mm... Forgive me, Commander. I was foolish to ask.
Ooo, I shall have to write my sister... A fate worse than death.
Not to fret, however. I will survive, and continue to serve loyally.
As much as my old, tired bones allow me... Oough... Oof...

kyra

...Fine.

Pheme

kyra

Pheme...

pheme

Hi, Kyra.

kyra

......

pheme

Do I... have something on my face?

kyra

N-No, it's just... I don't know where to start.
How are you holding up, Pheme?
I hope you had time to heal up properly...

pheme

Just about. I was lucky, if anything. The day I woke up was when...
Well. Everything happened.
Then I got separated from the others when we escaped to the forest...
It's a miracle the inquisition didn't catch me, honestly.

kyra

Mm...
I guess you've fully recovered, then?

pheme

My head hurts sometimes. I just get really dizzy...
There's this really annoying ringing in my ears all the time...
And I think I get tired easier than before.
I mean, during combat it's more or less fine,
but after I just want to lie down and sleep for a decade.
I talked to Lady Apate earlier. She said it's all normal.
It might get better with time. Or it might not.
She advised I be grateful I did not die in my sleep.

kyra

...Pheme, I...

pheme

While we're getting all the ugly topics out of the way...
I guess I'll just ask. Kyra... Did my brother escape Percote?

kyra

...!
O-Oh, no... He...
Pheme, I'm... I'm so sorry. I--

pheme

I don't want your apologies. I just wanted to know.
Well... I'll leave you to it. You must be super busy.

kyra

Just like that?
Pheme, are you sure you're okay?

pheme

I don't know if I'll ever be “okay” again.

kyra

......

pheme

...But, one thing at a time. First, we have a fight to finish.

kyra

Pheme, you... Don't you think you've suffered enough?
If you don't want to keep doing this, you can--

pheme

There you go again, trying to coddle me like always.
If you had coddled me before, Kyra... I would be dead.
Burned to death along with my brother in Percote,
or murdered by Soter because I lacked the strength to fight back.

kyra

...!

pheme

...Look, this isn't going anywhere. Let's stop for now, all right?
But... For what it's worth, Kyra... I'm still glad to be your friend.
So please... I hate to see that guilty look in your face...

kyra

......

Chapter 20 Hestia

hestia

Say, Kyra, you've been talking to Peri, right?

kyra

He's our main source of insight into the theocracy, so yeah.

hestia

I don't mean like that.
He told you all about the past and whatnot, did he.
Probably a stupid question, but I have to ask.
He didn't say much of anything regarding me, right?

kyra

Not really.
He just brought up this ominous secret of yours I keep hearing about.
No details, though.

hestia

Yeah, I figured.
Don't let him know I asked. Don't want him to think I don't trust him.

kyra

He did seem to have an issue with that...

hestia

Wanna know what the big deal is, Kyra?

kyra

What's with everyone lately?
Every time I take a walk through camp people rush to tell me about their past.

hestia

I guess what happened in Percote left us all shaken.
But honestly, I've been thinking about it for a while.
I've come to care a great deal about you, Kyra.
I think I'd like you to know more about me.

kyra

Well, if you want to talk, I'm all ears.

hestia

There's a lot less to it than you might think. Remarkably short story.
See, I was a different person when I started working for the holy knights.
I was a starry-eyed lad full of energy and aspirations.

kyra

Mmhmm.

hestia

......
A lad, Kyra.

kyra

All right?

(Kyra starts.)

...Wait... Oooohh...

hestia

Yeah.

kyra

Oh, right in the capital, too... That must've been rough.

hestia

The inner turmoil I went through is highly frowned upon by the church, of course.
We must respect and revere the Mother Earth's gifts to us, Her children.
We, ourselves, were lovingly crafted to fit Her perfect designs.
Who am I to decide Her design is wrong? That I am not who She made me to be?
I had to keep it all bottled up for the longest time.

kyra

But no longer, clearly.

hestia

I must admit, the reason I befriended Agari and her mother was selfish.
I... felt at ease, with them. Neither was none too fond of the theocracy.
One day I gathered the courage to tell Agari everything. Then, her mother.
With them, I could for the first time in my life be myself.
Even if it was only within the confines of their home, I was so happy...

kyra

That explains a lot. The last person you'd trust with such a secret was...

hestia

The rising star of the theocracy himself, obviously.
Even though he was supposed to be my best friend.
I... feared his reaction, and what it might entail for me.

kyra

Who could blame you? Your life depended on keeping it hidden.
There was someone kinda like you, back in Percote.
The inquisition discovered him. It was... not pretty.

hestia

But secrets cannot be kept forever.
The day everything fell apart, I tried to comfort Agari.
Usually she was more careful, but it was a tough time for her...
She spoke a little too loud, and Pericles overheard.
He was dragged away before we could clear the air, so I assumed the worst.

I hid away at their house and made preparations to run away.
But then... Pericles died.

kyra

Sorry?

hestia

The man who returned from Zhu, wearing his skin, was a broken husk of a person.
But he did not look at me with judgmental eyes. He asked Agari how she was doing.
He didn't leave the next day to return to the frontlines. I'll admit... I preferred him.

kyra

......
You seem very comfortable in your own skin now.

hestia

(smiles) I am. I am myself, surrounded by people who love me.
I hadn't ever dreamed everything would turn out so well for me.

kyra

Well... Thanks for confiding in me, Hestia.

hestia

(grins) I don't reveal all this to just anyone, you know.
You're a lovely gal, Kyra, and as strong as they come.
I'd love to be a bigger part of your life, if you'd like.

kyra

(smiles) E-Er... What's that supposed to mean?

hestia

Heh... It's okay. You've other things to worry about right now.
Just keep it in mind, okay? I really do care a lot about you.

kyra

...O-Okay, Hestia. I gotcha.

[Kyra & Hestia's support increases to rank B.]

Tiresias & Eupraxia

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

tiresias

(smiles) ...Ahh, is that your wonderful brewage I smell, Lady Eupraxia?

eupraxia

(smiles)Oh, I don't know if it'll be any good this time.
I'm experimenting with new blends.

tiresias

Ever the scientific mind! Care for a guinea pig?

eupraxia

Taste at your own peril...

tiresias

Hmmm... (closes eyes)

(Tiresias jolts.)

tiresias

Ough! It's quite potent...
Reminds me of the time Wulfric had me try out moonshine.
Goodness, that hit me like a speeding carriage...

eupraxia

I shall have to adjust the amounts...

tiresias

V-Verily...

If Wulfric is alive

eupraxia

......
Tell me something, Tiresias... About you and Wulfric.

tiresias

Oh?

eupraxia

You two truly love each other. It is quite beautiful.

tiresias

(smiles) I still can hardly believe my good fortune.
He's the stuff of dreams.

eupraxia

Have you ever considered... marriage?

(Tiresias balks.)

tiresias

Goodness, no!
I mean... What priest would officiate for us?
A heretic and a runaway knight...
Not to mention the other, more evident problem.

eupraxia

I could do that. That's why I brought it up.

tiresias

Wait, you? You're a priest?

eupraxia

I once was. I do still remember the rites of marriage.

tiresias

I should've figured. You had to learn holy magic somewhere...

eupraxia

There was a time I was considered among the greatest mages of the land.
But the years hiding away in seclusion, neglecting my training, took their toll.

tiresias

Hmm... Well...

eupraxia

Was the offer too sudden?

tiresias

Well, a little, but...
I don't know. I have to wonder if that truly is the best for him.

eupraxia

I'm going to stop you right there.
Wulfric loves you more than he loves anything else in the world.
I am certain if you proposed, he would be filled with joy.

tiresias

And yet, he would be less a partner and more a caretaker of mine...
I don't know if I want to bind him with the shackles of marriage.
Would it not be selfish?

eupraxia

(smiles) I assure you, you are worrying over nothing.
Which is only natural. Affection and concern are two sides of love's coin.
But believe me, you are his life's hope, not his burden.

tiresias

(smiles) His hope, eh... You could have been a poet, Lady Eupraxia.

eupraxia

Hohoho... Perhaps I shall become one yet.
I will need something to occupy my mind when this is over.
Perhaps you could have Wulfric read my verses to you?

tiresias

Now there's a truly delightful thought!

If Wulfric is dead

eupraxia

......

tiresias

Eupraxia... I...
I miss him so much...

eupraxia

You two truly loved each other. Even now, your bond lives on.
It is as beautiful as it is heartbreaking...
I must apologize for my part in his untimely demise...

tiresias

Your part? You're a good friend and a staunch ally.
Nobody is to blame but that vile inquisition...

eupraxia

There was a time I was considered among the greatest mages of the land.
But the years hiding away in seclusion, neglecting my training, took their toll.
...Moreover, my might belonged to Tartaros. To the inquisition.

tiresias

I suspected as much. You had to learn holy magic somewhere...

eupraxia

There is so much I regret, Tiresias.
And now, Wulfric's life is added to the list...
If only I had fought harder. If only I had started sooner--

tiresias

I'm going to stop you right there. You are the last person I wish to blame.
What does it matter where you were decades past?
Here and now, you are my friend.
I need those, more so now than ever. When this ends, and I can mourn...
I will need a shoulder to cry on.

eupraxia

A forgiving soul, atop your many other qualities...
If only everybody were like you, Tiresias.

tiresias

Don't sell yourself short, either.
You are kind and selfless. Among the best people I've ever met.

eupraxia

......

[Tiresias and Eupraxia gain C-rank support with each other.]

Barlowe & Edward

kyra

All right, you two. Time to continue.

edward

(smiles) Not even a hello?

barlowe

(smiles) Oh, please, Edward, do not tease her.
Let's see... Where were we?

kyra

At the part where Edward punched your lights out.

edward

Gehahahahaha! My favorite part!

barlowe

(serious) Hmph... Well, you were wondering how we became friends after that.

You see, before we fought, we had a lengthy conversation.
He chastised me for the outrageous taxes I set for the populace, and for the corruption and inequality that I allowed to run rampant.
He told me I was meant to rule for the people, not myself.

edward

Cushy nonsense that wouldn't have worked on any regular ol' slimy noble.
Honestly, I was just tryin' to distract him so I could get the first punch.
But what neither of us realized was he wasn't a regular ol' slimy noble.

barlowe

After that day, I made a number of attempts to capture him and his goons.
But they each proved less effective than the last.
I eventually realized... I enjoyed our little game of cat and mouse.
It kept me entertained, and allowed me to utilize my tactical prowess.
The life of a ruling margrave afforded me precious few opportunities to do that.

edward

All games must come to an end, though.
I actually went up to his door and asked to see him.

kyra

That's pretty bold, even for you.

edward

Well, I realized, things were already getting better for the little folks.
We made a fool out of him a few times, sure, but he still held all the power.
I didn't understand, and I wanted answers, so I went to get 'em.

barlowe

We had another long talk. Over tea rather than fists, this time.
By the end, we each recognized the values in the other.
After that, we parted ways, but... He was always welcome in my castle.
After all, he had taught me a lesson in humility. One I took to heart.

edward

(smiles) Hey, wasn't just you! We learned a lot from each other.
You might not believe this, but I used to be rather cynical.
Barlowe made me realize that people can change.

kyra

...That's a really nice story.
Thanks. I needed to hear something lighthearted, for a change.

barlowe

(smiles) One day, our adventure will be a story as well.
We must endeavor to ensure it, too, is a lighthearted one.

edward

Or at least, one with a good ending!

kyra

(smiles) Yeah...

Jason

jason

I know it's not my place to pry, Commander, but I gotta ask.
What was the deal between you and that merchant?

kyra

How much will you pay me for that information?

jason

(smirks) Heh. Funny. I get it.
(serious) Come now, I like to get acquainted with my employers. That wrong?

kyra

I suppose not.
...The merchant killed my parents.

jason

Oh.
Huh.
Not... what I was expecting...

kyra

What were you expecting?

jason

I don't know, but sure as heck not that.
How come you let him go so easy?

kyra

It was an accident.
An accident caused by his negligence, but still an accident.
I have more important things to do than hate some old guy.
Especially when he's clearly haunted by it, himself...

jason

Mm...
Well, it's none of my business.
You paid my bills, so you get my services.
Let's not make a bigger deal of it than that.

kyra

You're the one who started the conversation.

jason

True, that.
(smiles) Still, it's good to know I'm working for good people.
That's always preferrable to the alternative.

Plato & Pluto

plato

(smiling) Eyy, the great leader! The head honcho! The girl with the mean brow!
Her enemies quake in their boots, her friends swoon and drool!
Ain't that right, Ploo?

pluto

......

kyra

I think I've already heard you talk more than your brother there.

plato

Oh, but don't hold it against him. He's just shy, you know.
C'mon, lil' bro! Speak up! This is your big moment!
You got her full attention... Now's the time to strike!

pluto

Plato, I don't think that's-- Gaah!

(Plato pushes Pluto forward.)

pluto

Unnh...!

kyra

......

pluto

......
My brother. He is the greatest swordsman in the land.

kyra

No, he isn't.

(Plato flinches.)

plato

(frowns) Hey! I'm here! Have some respect, girl!
I could cut you to ribbons if I so desired!

kyra

Could you? Hold on, let me just...

(Kyra drops into a battle stance.)

plato

Whoa, whoa! What are you on about?!

kyra

You want a fight? I'll give you a fight.
Put them up.

(Plato cowers.)

plato

N-No! Ploo, save me! Say something to your girlfriend!

pluto

W-Who told you she's my girlfriend? We've barely spoken...

plato

(smiles) Ahhh, I just assumed! I mean, why else would she take you on?
I figured you just charmed her. He can be remarkably suave, y'know?
When he wants to be.

pluto

Didn't it cross your mind maybe she keeps me on for my bow arm?

plato

Of course! You've improved a lot. Your skills are soaring, bro!
Dare I say, you may be better than her...
Oh, but don't let her know I said that.
We don't want her to fire you out of jealousy. Hahaha!

kyra

I'm not deaf, you idiot.

(Pluto becomes agitated.)

pluto

YOU are the one who's going to get me fired, Plato!

plato

Ploo, I'm trying to help you out here!
I'm your big brother. I'm supposed to look after my little brother, lil' bro!

pluto

Grrrr...

PLAAAAAAA TOOOOOOO!

(Pluto chases after Plato.)

kyra

You know what? I think I like the silent one better.

Coronis

coronis

Commander Kyra, correct? I have yet to introduce myself.
My name is Coronis. I used to be a noble living in the capital.

kyra

A noble? How'd you end up living in a cabin in the woods?

coronis

How indeed... Ah, but first, please indulge me.
I have the most entertaining riddle for you.

kyra

A riddle? That's new...
But you know what? Sure, why not. Shoot.

coronis

Excellent. This is how it goes.

It is home to many. Those to whom it isn't find it difficult to enter.
When the lord of the night smiles down, it turns to smile back.
Oh, and it doesn't taste good. What am I talking about?

options

The sea!

The ground!

The world!

A farm!

A beehive!

Um... Tartaros?

If you answer correctly (the sea)

coronis

(smiles) That's exactly right! Very good!
I suppose you'd need to have a keen mind to come this far.
You live up to my every expectation, Commander.

If you answer incorrectly

coronis

Ah... No, I'm afraid that's wrong, Commander.

kyra

Dammit! Sorry... I've always been awful at these...

coronis

Quite understandable. Please, do not look so crestfallen.
I forget myself. I should not have pestered you in this manner.

kyra

You sure love your riddles, don't you?
Guess it goes well with the “mysterious witch of the woods” aesthetic.

coronis

(smiles) Haha, it sounds so frivolous when you phrase it like that.
I worked as a teacher in the capital. A teacher of young children.
I quickly found out puzzles of this variety are great for kids.
They put their developing minds to work, and they have fun while at it!
...Or maybe it's me that loves riddles, and I'm just projecting.
There's another fascinating enigma, don't you think?

kyra

You... sound like a teacher I'd have loved to have as a kid.
Only makes me more curious as to how you ended up in the woods...
But if you don't want to speak of it, I won't pry.

coronis

(frowns) ...There were those that were not pleased with my style of teaching.
I did not put enough emphasis on the importance of blind subservience.
I tried to teach children to think, not follow. Disagreeable things like that.
One day, I was deemed a heretic. And just like that, my life was ruined.
It was only thanks to a knight's mercy that I survived to go into hiding.

kyra

So that was your crime. Being a good teacher.
...Damn them all to hell. Stuff like this is exactly why I'm fighting.

coronis

Your resolve gladdens me, Commander.

If you answered correctly

coronis

(smiles) ...Ah, please, have a small token of my appreciation.
For humoring me, and for answering correctly!

kyra

What? No, I--

coronis

(serious) If you would refuse it, add it to the war chest. Please.
Money is not as important to me as the change you wish to bring about.

kyra

...All right, Coronis. Thank you.

(Coronis gives Kyra 1500 gold.)

Xinyi & Jingyi

kyra

Say, I've been wondering...
And I hope it's not the wrong thing to ask, but...

xinyi

(smiles) Hmm, hold that thought...
Ah, you couldn't help but glance at my head.
You've never seen a woman without hair?

kyra

Well, uh... Not really.

xinyi

(The commander's puzzled about our hair.)

jingyi

(smiles) (Ah, I was wondering how long it would take.)

xinyi

Well, you see, it is an ancient Zhulite custom.
How much do you know of the history of Zhu?

kyra

Barely anything, I'm afraid.
We weren't taught much about the eastern countries.

xinyi

I suppose that makes sense, given the way Tartaros is.
The Kingdom of Zhu dates back even further than Tartaros.
Many ancient traditions have survived to this very day.
One of which dictates warriors must shave their heads.
For hair is only good for vanity. Vanity is a liability in combat.
Proud Zhulite warriors are to rid themselves of such weaknesses.

kyra

(ToggleSmile) That's going a tad far, isn't it?

xinyi

(serious) Well, it's certainly true that no enemy can pull my hair in a fight.
...Of course, Jingyi still gets to have a killer beard.
Rather unfair, wouldn't you say?

jingyi

(Being jealous of my beard again, my friend?)

xinyi

(Hardly. It makes you look like a goat.)

jingyi

Hah hah hah hah hah! (I guess it rather does, yes!)

xinyi

(smiles) Ah, well... Shed no tears on my account. I make do.
I may not have a killer beard, but I do have a pretty cool scar.

kyra

So much for ridding yourselves of vanity...

xinyi

Zhu is a proud, militaristic country.
But not everyone that was born there is of the same mind.

jingyi

(frowns) (I had a beautiful mane in my youth. Alas...)

If Fazang is alive

kyra

...Wait, but I thought Fazang was a monk. A war monk, but still a monk.
Does the tradition apply to them as well?

xinyi

Ahahaha, oh, no. Fazang is just bald.

jingyi

(Bald as a cue ball!) Bah hah hah hah hah!

xinyi

Ahahaha... Ah, forgive me, Commander Kyra.
I wouldn't know how to translate that word.

kyra

It's okay. I get the gist of it...
(Sheesh. Poor guy's ears must be ringing...)

[Fazang gains 1 Defense.]

Fazang & Kairos

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

kairos

Hey there. Fazang, correct? I've heard about you.
The name's Kairos. I'm a Priest of Anima.

fazang

Hmm... Curious.
Tartaran knights turning on their order is not so surprising.
Not everyone can stomach being the harbingers of tyranny.
A priest? That is a different story.
You never had to kill anybody, did you?

kairos

...Would you indulge my curiosity, Fazang?
I know precious little about Zhu's religion.
What manner of deity do you believe in?

fazang

We do not have one deity to worship like you do.
In our eyes, life was not created. It merely is.
Forever circling a core, in an endless cycle.

kairos

And what would that core be?

fazang

It is not a physical entity, as it were. It is a more... abstract concept.
It would be more apt to say the cycle itself drives the core.
All things die, and in so doing, they return to their genesis.
Then the cycle begins anew. A neverending spiral of life.

kairos

(smiles) A beautiful sermon, spoken in perfect Tartaran.
Makes me feel rather inadequate, I'll admit.

fazang

Why don't you give it a try? Explain your faith to me.

kairos

(frowns) I don't know if I'm the right person to do that, honestly.
The church preaches that the Mother is perfect in all things.
That we, Her children, must never question Her design.
Merely look to the heavens, pray and be good little lambs...
I know this is what my answer must be. I know that.

fazang

Do you disagree?

kairos

She is also described as kind, loving and motherly.
I cannot help but detect a major discrepancy there.
I would call my own mother kind, loving and motherly.
But she taught me to follow my path and draw my own conclusions.
To understand those who are different, and forgive they who sin.
How could She hate Her children for such a vague slight as being “heretical?”

fazang

Hmm.

kairos

I do believe the Mother exists, or at least, existed. I am not that far gone.
But... In my opinion, the church stopped giving a fig about Her a long time ago.
They use Her name in vain to subdue the people into absolute compliance.
It... It disgusts me, I won't lie.

fazang

And like the cycle of life, our conversation returns to its root.
You have explained your grievances with the Church of Anima.
Now, I reiterate. Please, explain your faith to me, Kairos.

kairos

......
I believe the Mother asks naught of us, but to be as kind and caring as She is.
That's the man I try to be, and that's what I would ask my brethren to be.

fazang

Is it as simple as that?

kairos

Mmhmm. Told you you were asking the wrong person.

fazang

(smiles) On the contrary. This has been a truly enlightening conversation.
It is always fascinating discussing other doctrines.
Doubly so when it is with a person as wise and pious as you are.

(Kairos laughs.)

kairos

Pffft! You've got to be joking, Fazang.

fazang

(serious) I am not known to tell jokes often.
The Theocracy of Tartaros may fall, but a faith does not so easily fade away.
The Church of Anima, in some capacity or other, will survive.
It was once led astray, but it can yet be brought back to the right path.
Take care, Kairos, for that task will fall upon people such as you.

kairos

(smiles) ...Thanks, Fazang. That's nice to hear.
You take care too, huh?

fazang

May we both see the calm, blue skies after this dreadful storm of war.

[Kairos and Fazang gain C-rank support with each other.]

Hecate & Phobos

kyra

Hey, you two...

phobos

Kyra! Been a while since we last talked, huh...

kyra

Sorry, Phobos. So much has been going on.
No time for a chat with old friends, I guess.

phobos

Nah, yeah, I didn't mean to berate you or anything.
We ought to focus on the fight right now.

kyra

You seem a little less anxious than usual.
No stuttering or anything like that.

phobos

(smiles) Y-You think?! A-Ah, well... It's just...
When the scouts returned earlier, they had news for me.
They saw my mother. She's alive, Kyra!
Looks like she was taken in by some folks not far from where we are.
I was sure she burned up along with the rest of my family.
I'd forgotten what good news felt like...

kyra

If you want, you could stay with her for a while.
I don't think anyone'd hold it against you.

phobos

(frowns) Only myself. I can't quit now, Kyra! We've come so far...
I'm not abandoning you. No way.

kyra

You've come a long way, Phobos. I'm proud of you.

phobos

Ah, that's not true...

kyra

...To be honest, I'm more concerned about you.
Are you doing any better, Hecate?

hecate

A little, I guess.
It's worse at night. During the day I can keep distracted.
Then I lie down to sleep and instead my mind flares up.
Can't stop thinking of all the ways I could've stopped him...
All the awful things I could've prevented if I had simply...

phobos

He had us all fooled, Hecate. You can't blame yourself.

hecate

I know. Trust me, I've heard enough lines to that effect by now.
This is all just... new to me, you know? I always used to look out for myself.
I didn't even think I'd spend more than a few months with you lot.

kyra

(smiles) Heh. Couldn't help but grow fond of us, could you?

hecate

It's the simple things. Like how you always shared your food with me.
How you turned your backs on me, not afraid that I'd stab them.
How despite the whirlwind we're currently living through, you've still made time to swing by and check on me.
Never had that before, you know? It's a weird new feeling.

phobos

It's called “friendship.” Don't they have it in the capital?

hecate

Oh, it's been known to happen.
But I grew up poor. There's little sympathy to be found for our kind in the big city.

phobos

I always knew life in the village was better. See, Kyra?

kyra

I never stated otherwise.

hecate

...If there's one thing I've learned over the course of this thing, it's that Soter's a damn fool for throwing all of this away.
There's nothing the inquisition could offer that beats what we have.
I know, oddly corny thing for me to say, but that's how I feel.

phobos

Yeah, it's a tad corny.

kyra

Only a tad?

hecate

(smiles) You jerks. I'm trying to have a moment here.

phobos

(smiles) Haha, well... It may be corny, but I agree wholeheartedly.

kyra

(smiles) Yep. Same.

hecate

(still smiling) Bah...

[Kyra, Phobos, & Hecate gain C-rank support with each other.]

Chapter 21 Hestia

hestia

Hey, Kyra, quick question... Uhh...
Are we going to take too long to get through the mountain pass?

kyra

...You tell me? You're the one who's from the capital.
Heck, you must've had to go through there already to get to the south.

hestia

Oh yeah, you're totally right. I had suppressed that memory.

kyra

Are you going to tell me a tragic story having to do with mountains now?

hestia

Nothing of the sort, I assure you. I'm just, uh... see...

(Hestia fidgets.)

I-I'm afraid of heights, okay? I can't handle it, dammit!

kyra

Hestia, we're not climbing the peaks. We're crossing through the valley.
It only gets lower at the bottom of the ocean.

hestia

Yeah, but look! Look at those towering summits!

kyra

I would, but there's a wall on the way.

hestia

Just looking at them I picture myself standing up there, looking down, and...

(Hestia shivers.)

Ooo, it's enough to make me tremble all over!

kyra

(smiles) Well, if you plummet down, don't worry, I'll catch you.

hestia

(smiles) Oh, is that a promise?

kyra

(serious) ...J-Just tell me what you have for me, Hestia.

hestia

What makes you think I have anything at all?

kyra

You get a little twinkle in your eye when you do.

hestia

(smiles) Good catch. Yeah, I can hardly contain my excitement when I make something cool.
This isn't the coolest thing I've ever made, but working conditions haven't been ideal.

kyra

I mean, to my untrained eye it looks like the fanciest sword ever.

hestia

Eh. Only third or fourth, at best.

kyra

I'll be sure to find her a good home. Thanks as always, Hestia.

hestia

(smiles) Any time, as always.

[Hestia gives Kyra a Silver Blade.]

Tiresias

tiresias

So the hierophant was once a heretic, eh...
(smiles) Hah! The irony is palpable, wouldn't you agree, my friend?
(frowns) ...It is also rather terrifying. Do you think he, too, could be...?

kyra

A lifewringer? I'd say it's quite likely at this point.
If he and Apate worked together...

tiresias

It stands to reason they should be possessed of similar powers.

kyra

Tiresias, back in Percote... The way Apate fought...
If the hierophant is capable of such feats as well,
we're in for one hell of a fight when we corner him.

tiresias

Maybe so, but ultimately, he is only just one man.
One dying man, lest you forgot.

kyra

I wonder about that...

tiresias

I'm more worried about someone else, personally.
We haven't seen hair nor hide of Sandraudiga since Percote...

kyra

Any guesses as to what she's been up to?

tiresias

Well, before it was pretty clear. Plotting our bloody demise.
But now... I don't know, and that scares me far more.

kyra

She'll face us sooner or later.
And then she'll pay for her crimes, just like the rest of them.
We'll turn this into a world where you don't have to hide, Tiresias.

tiresias

(smiles) There's a dream I had never dared to dream.
I'll keep working as hard as I can to bring it about.

Ziying & Lost Child

child

(smiles) Hi!

kyra

(smiles) Um... Hi?
What exactly are you doing here...?

OpenLeft

I wanted to say bye to the nice man before he left!
(frowns) I realized I didn't know his name, since he can't say it...
(smiles) So I brought him paper and he wrote it down! Look, look!

kyra

Ziying...
Hey, that's actually very helpful. Thanks, little friend.
(frowns) ...Please don't run off on your own, though. You'll get lost again.
I'll have someone bring you back home before it gets dark.

child

Hurray! I get to play with Ziying until then!
(frowns) But... After that... We'll see each other again one day, right?

Ziying

......

(The child jumps with excitement.)

child

(smiles) Yay! Did you see that, miss? Ziying said yes with his head!

kyra

(smiles) Hahaha... You're just a little bundle of energy, aren't you?
(frowns) But listen, I'd like to have a word with Ziying.
Just a word! Won't take me more than a couple minutes, all right?

child

Oh, oh! I know! We'll play hide and seek!
I'll hide while you talk to the nice lady, okay, Ziying?
All right! Here I go! Wee!

(The child runs off excitedly.)

ziying

......

kyra

As I understand it, you were one of that colonel's lieutenants.
Our intel says you've been through hell and high water together for years.
Forgive me if I don't so readily believe your change of allegiance.
It was so sudden, after all... Too sudden.

ziying

......

kyra

...Sigh... I've got to admit this feels rather unfair.
I want to have an argument, but you can't argue back.
Should I get you some paper so you can write, or...?

ziying

......

(Ziying pulls back his cowl.)

kyra

What are you--

(Kyra starts.)

Ah! Oh-- Oh, my goodness, that's... Is that your neck?!

ziying

......

kyra

What... What happened to you? It's all... The scars...

ziying

......

kyra

...I have no idea what you're trying to tell me.
But... You went out of your way to help that child.
You refused to let her be harmed in our battle, and...
Well, like I said. You did flip sides surprisingly easily.
You... must have your regrets, isn't that right, Ziying?

ziying

(closes eyes) ......

kyra

...All right. I won't keep you.

Well! That's it! That's all I wanted to talk about!
I'll be off now, so ready or not, here he comes!

child
(offscreen)

...Teeheehee... O-Oh!

ziying

(opens eyes) ......

Agari & Nicaea

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

nicaea

...Hey.

agari

......

nicaea

How much longer do you intend to avoid me, Agari?

agari

What do you want me to say, Nicaea?

nicaea

I had hoped at least you wouldn't give me the cold shoulder.
Where's the Agari with whom I shared so many grievances with the church?
There was a time I considered you to be my only friend...

agari

Yeah, and I felt the same way.
But now I can't bear to look you in the eye.

nicaea

......
You know as well as I do that she deserved it.

agari

No, you've convinced yourself that I do, but I don't.
All I really know is that you killed your own sister in cold blood.

nicaea

Is that truly so different from what you would've done to her on the battlefield?
Or what she would've done, for that matter. She would've gleefully killed you as well.
She would've even thanked the Mother for it. That's the kind of wretch she was.

agari

So what you're saying is that people can't change.
Aura was a zealot, and that's all she could ever be.
Until the day she died. Brutally murdered by her twin sister.

nicaea

I can't believe this. You, of all people, are going to lecture me?
You hated the inquisition as much as I did! Why is this such an issue?

agari

There you go again. People can't change.
I have to be the same person I once was. Someone who's on your side.
Just like Aura was always going to be the same person you loathed...

nicaea

Aura never would've changed. She made that very clear.

agari

She certainly won't change now. She's dead.
And you'll go the rest of your life telling yourself you're right.
People can't change. If they can... That means you were mistaken.
That there's a chance you killed her before she could change...

nicaea

......

agari

I'm sorry, Nicaea. What happened to you and your family was...
Well, it was awful. I can't even imagine how it must've felt.
But you only killed Aura to sate your own thirst for revenge.
You accomplished nothing with it. I just can't condone that.

nicaea

...Agari... Do you think there's any chance of salvation for me?

agari

Salvation from what?

nicaea

I don't know. Hell? The Mother's wrath? Myself?

agari

That's not something I can tell you.
All I can say is that I've only grown happier since I tried forgiving instead of hating.

nicaea

......
Do you think... you could ever forgive me?
Do you think Aura could...

agari

You've done nothing to me. I have nothing to forgive you for.
And again, Aura is dead. She can't forgive anyone for anything now.
You're the only one who can forgive yourself.
That'll have to be enough.

nicaea

And if it isn't?

agari

You make it be. You don't want to hear the only alternative.
I... almost saw that happen too, once.
It was then that I realized, if I kept on hating...
I would only destroy those I cared about, and myself...

nicaea

Agari...

agari

But it was also then that I realized people can change.
You see, you may need to believe the contrary...
But it's the opposite for me. If people can't change, then my life is a lie and so is my happiness.
I'm sorry, I'd rather just believe you're wrong.

(Agari leaves.)

nicaea

......

[Agari gains 1 Defense.]

Ofelia & Telemus

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

telemus

...Hmmmm...

ofelia

(smiles) Oh, my... My, my! What an unexpected surprise!

telemus

Ah, good day to you, er...

ofelia

Call me Ofelia, good sir. And how shall I address you?

telemus

My name is Telemus. Pleased to make your acquaintance.

ofelia

A perfect gentleman too! What a far cry from the rest of these boors.

telemus

I am... not certain I quite understand...

ofelia

I was not aware we had inducted a fellow artist into our ranks!

telemus

(smiles) Oh, this? Ahaha, no, no, the adjective of “artist” ill suits me.
I paint, 'tis true, but merely to pass the time.

ofelia

(serious) Mmhmm... Go on, then. Let us not be coy.
You may paint me. I give you my blessing.

telemus

Eh? Oh, uh... Do pardon me...

ofelia

Is there a problem?

If Polonius is present

ofelia

If you have ran out of paint, that should not be an issue.
I shall have my brother purchase more for you.

telemus

Please, you need not go so far.

If Polonius is absent

ofelia

Did you run out of paint, perhaps?

telemus

No, I'm doing fine on that front.

telemus

It's just...
I only paint landscapes.

ofelia

What's the point in doing that?
Landscapes can't appreciate their own beauty.

telemus

(smiles) Well, perhaps not, but I can.
Direct your gaze, for instance, directly ahead of me.
What do you see, I wonder?

ofelia

That's just the mess hall, the storeroom and a shoddy dirt path.

telemus

Indeed, but I glean more still.
I see the stories of the many who have tread upon that path,
written in the prints of their boots and the trails of their carriages.
Above I see birds, journeying to greener pastures whither build a new home.
And all around us, our comrades, each with tales of their own to tell.
We are all small, yet significant details in the grand landscape that is life.
It is this tiny whole before me that I wish to capture upon this canvas.
I am boring you, am I not?

ofelia

...No, actually... That's beautiful.
I cannot speak for your skills with the brush, but as a wordsmith, you are a prodigy.

telemus

(smiles) Hahaha... I only voice my thoughts.
(frowns) I am sorry I cannot provide the service you require...

ofelia

(smiles) Don't worry about it.
As compensation, however, would you mind if I remained by your side?
I would watch you paint, if you would have me.

telemus

(smiles) It would be my pleasure.
Now... Which of these colors do you think best represents the shoddy dirt path?

ofelia

Ahaha, well... I think I'd have to say...

[Ofelia and Telemus gain C-rank support with each other.]

Hecate & Coronis

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

hecate

......

coronis

Hello, young lady. Can I help you?

hecate

I'm not sure, but... I think I know you.
It's me... Hecate.

(Coronis starts.)

coronis

My word! Truly?! Do you remember me?

hecate

(smiles) Small world, huh, Teacher?

coronis

(smiles) Unbelievable... I could never have foreseen this turn of events.
The worst troublemaker I've ever had to contend with, now a fellow fighter in the insurrection against the powers that be.

hecate

Come now, Teacher. I wasn't THAT bad... Was I?

coronis

Worse than bad, if anything. But your heart was in the right place.
That I could tell, as well. And now I am proven right.

hecate

(frowns) ......
I don't know...

coronis

Hecate? Is something...?

hecate

......

coronis

At risk of overstepping my bounds... You can confide in me.

hecate

...Yeah. I know.
I've been with Kyra since before she was a rebel.
It was just a handful of us. A close-knit group...

coronis

I recall you had trouble making friends back in the day.
I'm glad to hear that changed.

hecate

It didn't really. I never let them get close enough.
Maybe if I did, I could've... I would've...

One of them betrayed us, Teacher. I knew this.
I couldn't warn the others. I couldn't stop him.
I only... watched, as he stabbed Kyra in the heart...

coronis

...I see...
If you wish to hear my opinion, I think you're wrong about one thing.
You really have changed. This isn't the Hecate of old.
Remember how you reacted when I asked you to get along with the other kids?

hecate

(smiles) I said a bad word, didn't I?
The kind a kid that age shouldn't have known.

coronis

Haha, I will not repeat it, but yes, that's exactly it.
(serious) But now you cherish the bonds you have made.
So much so that the idea of letting your friends down tortures you.

Nobody said bonding would always be a walk in the park.
I, too, have suffered my share of betrayal and disappointment...
But we can't let that keep us from trusting, Hecate.

hecate

......
You know something funny, Coronis?
The traitor... He, too, was an old timer noble from the capital.
A knight. Well, formerly... And now reinstated, I suppose.
Anyway, the point is, he's the worst person I have ever met.
You cared even for street urchins like me. Let us into your class.
If only more of your ilk were like you, instead of him.

coronis

You give me too much credit.

hecate

I don't, and you know it.

coronis

(smiles) Hmm, well... In any event, it has been nice to catch up.

hecate

(smiles) Yeah, likewise. See you around, Teacher.

(Hecate leaves.)

coronis

(frowns) ...A former knight from the capital...

[Hecate and Coronis gain C-rank support with each other.]

Jingyi & Glaucus

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

jingyi

(smiling) ...Mmmm...

glaucus

(smiles) Drinking something nice there? Mind some company?

jingyi

(frowns) Oh...

If Xinyi is alive

(Rats, here we go. Where's Xinyi when you need her?)
(Ahh, where did I put the dictionary...)

If Xinyi is dead

(Rats, here we go. Where's my dictionary?)

glaucus

(If you don't find it, I can do its job.)

jingyi

(smiles) (Oho! You speak Zhulite?)

glaucus

(Sure I do. I studied to be a courier. International level.)
(I actually aced the foreign languages course.)
(frowns) (...Only thing I aced. I suck at sitting down and studying.)

jingyi

(Ha ha ha! Well, I'm glad to have met you, friend!)
(It gets tiring, talking to the same two people every day.)

glaucus

(So, what're you drinking there? Spirits of the homeland?)

jingyi

(Mmhmm. Baijiu. My last flask, in fact.)
(Hard to procure more in Tartaros.)
(Go ahead, help yourself!)

glaucus

(I've never tried that... But are you sure? If it's your last...)

If Xinyi is alive

jingyi

(Go ahead, go ahead! I can always steal Xinyi's flask.)

glaucus

(Bahahaha! All right. Let's see...)

If Xinyi is dead

jingyi

(Go ahead, go ahead! Something to look forward to when I return.)

glaucus

(All right. Let's see...)

jingyi

......

glaucus

(Hmm. Not bad. Stronger stuff than I usually have.)

jingyi

(frowns) Huh...

glaucus

(Disappointed?)

jingyi

(smirks) (Hah! A bit. Usually this hits people like a fist to the gut.)
(I was looking forward to watching you double over...)
(Ahh, that's too bad. Ha ha ha ha ha!)

glaucus

(You're a pretty cheerful chap, for what looks to be a grizzled veteran.)

jingyi

(frowns) (Hmm, well... Warfare is ugly business.)
(Zhu may have made a culture out of it, but it is no less ugly for it.)
(After all these years, I've found it is all too easy to lose oneself.)
(I needed to find a way to uncloud my mind of the darkness.)

glaucus

(And that way was...?)

jingyi

(smiles) (I latched on to my inner child!)
(The part of me that stares wide-eyed at unfamiliar things, and likes pulling silly pranks on people and watching them react.)

glaucus

(Oh... Huh. So it's not the alcohol.)

jingyi

(frowns) (Naaah. That's a pitfall on its own right.)
(Of course, this approach isn't without its downsides.)
(smiles) (People back in the homeland look at me as if I'm stupid.)
(Maybe it's a good thing nobody here understands me! Ha ha ha!)

glaucus

(smiles) (Well, I, for one, am glad I can understand you.)
(In fact, I think I'll keep your advice in mind.)

jingyi

(Delighted to have been of service!)
(But please, there's enough left for a toast. Shall we?)

glaucus

(Cheers to that!)

[Jingyi and Glaucus gain C-rank support with each other.]

Xinyi & Fazang

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

xinyi

Fazang?

fazang

(Xinyi... I wished to speak.)

xinyi

(...In Zhulite? That's going to look rather suspicious.)

fazang

......
I merely do not wish for this to be heard by those whom it does not concern.

xinyi

Fine, I'll indulge you, but...
(Fazang, I hope this isn't about what I think it is...)

fazang

(I am... worried, Xinyi.)
(We have been stuck with each other for weeks now.)
(It has become unbearable. I wish to ask you directly.)
(Are you... comfortable, with my presence here?)

xinyi

(Oh, take me now, it IS what I thought it was...)
(Fazang, I thought we cleared the air before we set out.)

fazang

(But this wasn't supposed to be the way events transpired.)
(I sent my request for reassignment a day before that fateful evening...)
(By now, I should have been far away from here. From you...)

xinyi

(You didn't tell me you requested to be reassigned...)

fazang

......

xinyi

(Fazang, since you want to be direct, let's be direct.)
(I don't mind that you're here. On the contrary, I'm glad you are.)
(I consider you a friend. No matter how things ended.)

fazang

(You need not lie to me, Xinyi.)

xinyi

(I do not. I like you, Fazang. It's just...)
(Sometimes it feels like you're made out of stone.)
(I know you care, deep down. But it makes you hard to love.)
(Or, at least... I am not good enough to pull it off. It's not only you, see?)
(It just wasn't to be. That doesn't mean I want you to go away.)
(Unless... It is you that wants to be away from me.)

(Fazang shifts awkwardly.)

fazang

(N-No! That's not it at all. I... I am merely concerned...)

xinyi

(smiles) (Ahahahaha! Look at you blush! Now there's a sight to behold!)

fazang

......
Forgive my moment of weakness, Xinyi. I...

xinyi

Hey, weakness is only human.
Honestly, I'm rather happy to see this, if anything.

fazang

How so?

xinyi

Sometimes you seem so stoic, you don't even feel human.
It's heartening to see it is possible to rattle you...
And, frankly? Rather flattering to know I hold such power still.

fazang

(smiles) Hah, well... I may be made of stone, but what I felt for you was real.

xinyi

And it's precisely for that reason that I want us to stay friends.
I don't want to lose you, Fazang. Even if you're hard to love.

fazang

...That will do. Thank you, Xinyi.

[Xinyi and Fazang gain C-rank support with each other.]

Alonso & Polonius

If Polonius is present

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

polonius

Lowly worm!

alonso

Forsooth! Mine eyes spy, one lord of darkness run amok.
Come to meet thy maker, have thee, prithee?!

polonius

Nay, my insufferable little goody-goody.
I present to you an offer. A truce!

alonso

What! Darest thou insult me, great knight Sir Quijano!
Our quarrel shalt fiercely burn evermore, with the flame of hatred!
Quintessential hatred between good and evil that can never be bridged!
Evermore we shalt fight, I say! Evermore!

polonius

I agree wholeheartedly.
You are a loathsome tripwire on the stairwell to ultimate power.
However! We stand against a power far greater.
Villains and heroes standing together against a common foe...
'Tis a trope as ancient as storytelling itself!

alonso

Glean I what thy meaning entails, foul villain.
Though ashamed am I of giving the chase...
Our fair commander, bravest Kyra, needeth our combined mettle!

polonius

Arm in arm, hand in hand, Tartaros shall fly to the heavens!
We'll claim victory and arise victorious, winfully!

(Alonso bounces.)

alonso

(grins) Ha ha ha! It would be my honor to win for our great leader!

polonius

(grins) Mine as well, and if the price I must pay is allying myself with your likes...
So be it! I will lay my dignity to rest and see our rivalry postponed!

alonso

United our power shall reach the heavens and greet the Mother!
And back She shalt smile, proud of us, Her greatest children!

polonius

Eeheeheeheeheeheehee!

alonso

Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!

polonius

Eeheeheeheeheeheehee!

alonso

Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!

(The two continue cackling.)

[Alonso and Polonius gain C-rank support with each other.]

If Polonius is absent

alonso

My liege! My leader! Speaketh a word, might we?

kyra

Nngh--

(Kyra readies herself.)

Y-Yeah, sure... What's up, Alonso?

alonso

Picture thee, a picture mine words shalt paint.

Foul fiend, run amok. Terrorizing good friends!
His cackle inspiring fear upon the hearts of all!
Eeheeheeheeheeheehee!
...Soundeth something like this, perchance.

kyra

That's bringing back some unpleasant memories...

alonso

Indeed! Unpleasant is just the word, lady mine!
Unpleasant demon in human cloth! A menace!
Yet... Come this juncture, I suspect we should be allies.
For great plight oft bring friend and foe together in understanding!
Forces of light and armies of dark, facing danger untold, arm in arm!

kyra

Are we going somewhere with this, Alonso?

alonso

...Alas... Lack I such an element. Such a beast to bicker with!
Surrounded by peaceable allies, most agreeable, most kind...
Lack I the push of a rival. 'Tis a sorry state of affairs...

kyra

No one's forcing you to stick around, man.
If our little “stop the tyrant and save the country” thing is boring you,
you could just tell me and go do... whatever it is you do.

(Alonso balks.)

alonso

Mine ears be playing tricks upon mine mind!
Or could it be, thine tongue casts such ignominious insult?!
Commander! I beg thee recant!

kyra

Yeah, I thought it wouldn't be that easy...

alonso

I am a knight. Loyal to the end!
Order I lay down my life for thine cause, and I shalt!
'Tis the right thing to do. This I know, that I swear!

kyra

Right... Sorry I doubted you, Alonso. I guess.

alonso

(smiles) My most valorous peer. There is naught to forgive.
(frowns) Alas... If only reformed villain could by my side stand.
It is the missing piece, lacking in our perfect tale.

kyra

If you want, I can hire a guy to act the part.

(Alonso becomes agitated.)

alonso

No! No! It has to be genuine!
Match my brazen candor, mine rival must!
'Tis not something cold gold can conjure! Never!

kyra

......

alonso

Alas... Forsooth! Only one path before me!
Sir Quijano, sworn knight, must redouble his efforts!
Miraculous light of righteous fire lit in my lonely heart,
that it may burn bright enough for two! Yes!
(grins) Gaze upon mine soul, Mother above! Gaze with pride!
I shalt be thine strongest! Thine most dedicated!

CHAAAAAARGE!!

(Alonso charges off.)

kyra

......
I have no idea what just happened, but...
(eyes droop) My head hurts all of a sudden.

[Alonso gains 1 Strength and 1 Magic.]

Scymerius

kyra

What the...?!

scymerius

Ah, Commander. Making the rounds, as per usual?

kyra

...What the heck is your problem?

scymerius

You know, you still have not said “hello.”

(Kyra becomes agitated.)

kyra

Don't act coy! You thought we wouldn't notice your disappearance?

scymerius

Admittedly, that did take a little longer than I'd have liked.
Still, I am here, am I not? I'm ready to get to work.

kyra

So you're just not going to explain.
You suddenly vanish now, when we're headed into the heart of Tartaros.
And you don't think there's any need to explain at all.

scymerius

I had some business to handle in the area.
I figured, as long as we were passing through...
Don't worry. Nothing to do with you, and it's all settled now.

kyra

......
I'm guessing there's no chance you'll elaborate on that point.

scymerius

By now you should be used to that.

kyra

......

scymerius

You know, Commander, a little gratitude would not be uncalled for.

kyra

E...Excuse me? Gratitude?
For what? Abandoning your post? Being insufferably secretive?

scymerius

......
Actually, perhaps you should try being more attentive first.

kyra

...What...?

scymerius

Well, I'm just saying. I could've chosen not to share.
But I'm nicer than you give me credit for, and I do support this cause.
So you know.

kyra

......
I think I'm just going to leave you to it now.

scymerius

Marvelous.

kyra

(Yeah, “marvelous.” That's exactly the right word, you damned--)

[Note: Scymerius is referring to the 600 gold he silently adds to the war chest at the start of this chapter.]

Edward

kyra

You know, there's one part of the story I can't wrap my head around.

edward

(smiles) Hoo, boy. All right, Kyra, let me have it.

kyra

So the margrave turned into a good guy, you got away with your crimes, and the two of you became good friends. Happy end for all, it seems.

edward

It really was! And look how it panned out all these years later.
Where'd we be if it hadn't been for our beautiful ol' friendship?

kyra

Honestly, we'd probably still be in Glamorgan trying to amass troops.
The part that baffles me is that... Well, you and I met at all.

edward

(frowns) I see... You're wonderin' what drove me to leave Glamorgan behind.
Yeah, guess it's about time I told you that...

See, the “dashing rogue of justice” shtick went so well with Barlowe,
I went from cynicism straight to feckless naïvete.
Years later, I tried to pull the same stunt in another margravate...

kyra

Oh, goodness. Did you tangle with Zaccheus or Simeon's parents?

edward

Nope. Worse, if anything.
I tangled with Delilah's mama. A delightful old crone.
You thought Delilah was bad? That woman was way nastier.
Her people had a moniker for her. The Witch of the Merciless Winds.

kyra

I wonder if Sandraudiga would've been jealous that it's longer than hers...

edward

(smirks) Hah! Now there's a fight I'd love to see.
(serious) Well, the moment she got a whiff of dissidence's stench from us, she spared no expense to see us not captive, but dead.

kyra

Oh, no, don't tell me that's how you...

edward

My boys were panicking and deserting me in droves.
Of course, I didn't blame them. I gave 'em my blessing, even.
But just when the remaining half of us were making plans to flee...

kyra

They caught you.

edward

Mine was a sinking ship, and a good captain is the last to abscond.
I fought the good fight so my guys could escape with their heads attached.
To answer the question on your mind, yeah, that's when I lost my eye.
The chunk of my ear, too. That wasn't my finest showing...

If Delilah is alive

kyra

Remind me to punch Delilah in the face next time I see her.

edward

(smiles) Meh. If anything, I find her rather endearing compared to her ol' matriarch.

If Delilah is dead

kyra

Dang. This'd be when I punched Delilah in the face. Too bad she's dead...

edward

(smiles) Meh. If anything, I found her rather endearing compared to her ol' matriarch.

edward

(serious) On the other hand, for all we know, she might've killed her herself...

kyra

...So why did they call her “Witch of the Merciless Winds”, anyway?

edward

She liked to publicly execute her detractors with wind magic.

kyra

Right...

edward

Anyhow, I barely got away with my life and ran all the way back to Wrexham.
Barlowe hid me for a while, but the harpy was very persistent.
Eventually she got the other margravates involved.
And well, since I was kinda sorta actually a criminal...
They decided she was justified, and gave Barlowe an ultimatum.

kyra

And that's when he smuggled you out to Tartaros to start over.

edward

More or less. Officially, I broke out of Wrexham Keep's dungeon on my own.
He gave me a bit of food, some coins and directions.
That's all I was willing to let him risk for my sake.

And the rest you know. I crossed into Tartaros, wandered about, did stuff.
Until eventually, I found myself in a quaint lil' village near the border.
(smiles) Just in time to stumble into the bravest boy in the world,
and his impressively strong sister in their time of need.

If Delilah is alive

kyra

(smiles) You know what? I think I'll spare Delilah that punch.

If Delilah is dead

kyra

(smiles) You know what? Maybe I would've spared Delilah that punch.

Much as I hate to say this, her mom did us a favor.

edward

Heh... I don't know if I'd thank either of 'em for it, but...
I ain't got no regrets. These last few years with you,
they've been the most joyous of my life.
(frowns) Even though I know it's been a tough going for you and Eli...

kyra

Would've been way tougher without you, Redbeard.

edward

Awww, lassie...

[Kyra & Edward's support increases to rank B.]

Chapter 22 Hestia

kyra

Back home, eh, Hestia?

hestia

Yeah... Can't say I'm all that thrilled.
I never liked the place all that much.

kyra

You don't have any family waiting in there?

hestia

Not really. I mean, my parents are still alive, but...
We... don't really talk.
Scratch the really. We don't talk.

kyra

Oh. Sorry...

hestia

Nah, don't worry.
Honestly, they'd probably be disappointed I'm still kicking.
I'm the black sheep in a long, proud line of holy knights.

kyra

Oh, goodness. My condolences, Hestia...

hestia

Why else do you think I started working for the inquisition?
It was the only way they'd let me enter my apprenticeship.
Make them think I'd put my skills to the service of our glorious nation...
Heh. So much for that. Couldn't have broken that promise harder.

kyra

Are your parents still in service?

hestia

Yeah. Chances are high that they'll be deployed somewhere around here.
Not that it matters. Armor and dust make it difficult to tell people apart.
And if they recognize me, well... They'll probably just fight harder.
If they can recover from the shock of seeing my pigtails for the first time.

kyra

How could your pigtails shock anyone? They're so cute.

(Hestia starts.)

hestia

(smiles) Ahahahahaha! Oh, you're just the most, Kyra.

kyra

What? That's just what I think!

hestia

Well, I'm really glad you do. And I agree! That's why I wear them.

(serious) ...All right, break time's over. Back to work.

I'm making one last gift for you, Kyra. I'm pouring my heart and soul into it.
I hope I'll have it ready before the battle ends.
Otherwise it'll only be good for decor.

kyra

Hey, I'd be happy to hang anything you make me over my mantle.

hestia

(smiles) Heh.

Tiresias

tiresias

Immortal... The hierophant is immortal...

kyra

And so is Apate, obviously.

tiresias

It boggles the mind...
For you and I, this conflict commenced but months ago.
She and the hierophant have been at war for centuries...

kyra

Tartaros was founded over four hundred years ago...

tiresias

And they've been at it longer still, I wager.
Immortality alone would not have allowed Dolus to build his theocracy.
More likely, with time no longer a concern, he was slow and methodical in his ascent.
Outlasting the powers that be of his time. Cementing his position, little by little.
Until eventually, seeing him at the top became habit for all below...

kyra

Tiresias, I'm afraid to ask her...
What the hierophant has been doing to extend his lifetime is just...
It's the most nightmarish thing I've heard in my life.
Do you think Apate, too...?

tiresias

I don't think so. Time, failure and solitude have eroded her moral compass, but...
In all of it, on some level, I can tell she has remained true to herself.
I suspect she harvests the lifeforce of those who were dying already,
or those she had to kill regardless to protect herself.
I sincerely doubt she ever set out to murder innocents for their energy.

kyra

...Yeah, that does make sense.
The only time I've ever seen her use that kind of magic was back in Percote.
I didn't understand then, but I got the sense she... truly despised that power.

tiresias

......

kyra

I can tell something else is on your mind, Tiresias.

tiresias

I won't lie to you, Kyra. I am disturbed, and the slightest bit afraid of myself.
I see it clearly now, Kyra. This is what she warned me against.
Reaching the same discovery that she and Dolus did, all those years ago...
And being consumed by the boundless possibilities it would give way to.
The scholar in me compells me to dig deeper, and yet... I am terrified.

kyra

The way Apate told it to me, it wasn't the power that drove Dolus mad.
Just the opposite, he sought it precisely because he already was mad.
The kind of unassuming madness that lurks deep within a person, waiting...
Until the opportunity to let loose presents itself.

tiresias

And who is to say I do not have that in myself?
No, I should just... throw away this staff and burn my research down.

kyra

The very fact that you're considering going that far speaks volumes.
You're not Hierophant Dolus, and you never will be.

tiresias

(smiles) ...Thanks. I needed to hear that.

kyra

(smiles) Now raise those spirits! I still need your expertise.

tiresias

Aye, you certainly do.
On that note, I have managed to produce light tomes of even greater quality.
Let Hestia know if you need some, and we'll get to work.

kyra

That'll be a real help.
Dolus hasn't survived Apate's wrath for centuries for nothing.
We will need every advantage we can get if we're to finish this.

tiresias

I'll do all that I can.

Demeter

demeter

(smiling) Ah, Kyra! Hi!

kyra

Hi...
Er, look, it's not that I'm not grateful for everything you've done for us.
But uh... I really have to ask. Who are you, exactly?

demeter

(frowns) Me? I'm Demeter. Oh, I never did introduce myself, did I?
Sorry... I keep forgetting not everyone knows my name.
Isn't it weird how you always know your name, but other people don't?

kyra

...That's progress, if nothing else. We got a name now...
Where are you from, Demeter? I've never met anyone quite like you.

demeter

(smiles) I come and go. Everywhere's my home.
There are so many beautiful places in this world.
How could I prop up any one of them above the rest by calling it “home”?
That'd be so unfair...

kyra

Uh huh. Let's try something else, then.
Do you have any family? Friends?

demeter

Yeah! The little critters that walk this land.
They're all my friends and family. You are too, Kyra!
You're one of my favorites, in fact. You're so cool!

kyra

C-C'mon, you don't mean that. That's not true. I mean...

demeter

(serious) Of course I mean it! And don't you go putting yourself down!
You're the one at the center of this adventure.
I'm just a silly little gal standing on the sidelines.
(smiles) How could I sit here and not be in awe of you? You're awesome!

kyra

...Little...? You're taller than me, though...

demeter

Do you have any more questions? I'd love to keep chatting!

kyra

Um... I don't know, what are your hobbies?

demeter

Oh, that's a lovely question! I have a few.
I like turning into a bug and exploring the little crevices in the ground.
You wouldn't believe the wonders you can find down there!
The other day I met a mole family. They were so cute!

kyra

......

demeter

(still smiling) ......

kyra

...Well. Great to meet you, Demeter.

demeter

Same. I hope we become good friends.

(Demeter leaves.)

kyra

Yep, I think she takes the cake for weirdest weirdo we've picked up.
Sigh... But at least this one's nice, so, eh. Who cares.

Huh? That's odd... I feel a little strange...

[Kyra gains 1 Resistance.]

Barlowe, Fiadh, & Beatrix

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

fiadh

Hey! I just remembered!
You said you'd tell me more about yourself if we survived!

beatrix

(smiling) I was just trying to psych you up.

fiadh

Well, it worked. I'm alive.
Time to make good on your end of the deal. Spill it.

beatrix

(still smiling) “It” being what, my dear Fiadh?

fiadh

Everything. I wanna hear your whole life story.

barlowe

Fiadh, I hardly think this is appropriate...

fiadh

C'mon, don't tell me you're not curious too, Margrave.

beatrix

Bold of you to assume he doesn't know anything about my past.
It's you I keep in the dark, hun.

fiadh

...Is that true, Margrave?

barlowe

Well, I... may be privy to a handful of minor details...
Trivialities, really. Nothing worth your time.

beatrix

I keep telling you, Fiadh. I'm nobody that matters.
I've been a blade for hire my entire life.
I do things for people if they pay the price I ask.

fiadh

Yeah, that's really boring.
What's the worst thing you've ever done for money?
Give me something spicy.

beatrix

(serious) ......
Set a fire.

fiadh

...Uh-huh?

beatrix

You're not going to get more out of me about that, dear.
Better try asking something else.

barlowe

Fiadh, I would thank you not to offend one of our most reliable operatives.

fiadh

Hey, if it helps, by this point I have no doubts about her.
She's proven her heart's in the right place a few times over.

beatrix

(smiles) Aww, isn't that cute. I can just feel the love emanating from you.
What's next? Are we going to start giving each other cute nicknames?
What do you say? Wanna be the FiFi to my BeeBee?

fiadh

I'd rather scratch my throat open with my bare hands.

beatrix

(still smiling) All right, FiFi. So, what else do you want to know?

(Fiadh fidgets.)

fiadh

I don't know, something! Let me know you better, you stubborn dope!

beatrix

Well, my favorite color's red. I once had a pet turtle.
I've had seven relationships, but none of them lasted longer than a year.
The most gold I've ever accumulated neared the million pieces.
With them, I bought myself a fancy dagger that I later lost.
I've six scars on my body. My favorite's the one that's right on my--

fiadh

Okay, okay, you can stop. Point taken.

beatrix

What point? I'm just humoring your request!
Why, I dare say you now know more about me than I do about you!

fiadh

(smiles) Good. I'll take pride in that. Means I win this round.

beatrix

Hahaha... Your daughter's just unbelievable, Margrave.

(Barlowe starts.)

barlowe

M-My--

fiadh

(scowling) Daughter?!

beatrix

What, don't you remember?
You had tears in your eyes and everything when you told me.
All about how you loved him like you loved your own dad.
It was positively adorable...

barlowe

F-Fiadh, is that true?

fiadh

Oh that's it. You're dying now.

beatrix

That's the spirit! Could use a new scar to go with the one that's on my--

(The two begin scuffling, Beatrix still smiling.)

barlowe

(smiles) Daughter, huh... Hoho, oh, good grief...

[Beatrix and Fiadh each gain 1 Speed, and their support increases to rank B.]

Plato & Raleigh

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

plato

(smiling) Ayyyyyy, what's up, buddy pal?!
Look at you! You're so cool! Cool as heck!
They probably have your face next to the word “rad” in the dictionary!

raleigh

......
I'm sorry, do I know you at all, or...?

plato

Sure you do! We just met, er... 17 seconds ago!
Plato, the Blood Demon of the urban legends, here to rock and roll!

raleigh

To rock and-- Is that some kind of new combat maneuver?
It sounds ridiculous.

plato

Don't worry about it! Just go with the flow, man!
Or woman? Actually, I'm not sure. What are you, buddy pal?!

raleigh

I'm Raleigh.

plato

Aha! The Rally-man! The Rally-woman?
Ahh, it doesn't matter, does it? You're you, that's the important thing!
Rally-buddy! Rally-pal! Rallying the hearts of all with their dashing locks!

raleigh

......
(smiles) I take it that means you like my hair? I work very hard to take care of it.

plato

It shows! I mean, not to brag, but I'm pretty happy with my hair.
Doesn't it just scream “mysterious swordsman” to you?
Anyway, it doesn't compare to yours! Look, look! It's amazing!

raleigh

Heh... You may look, but you may not touch.

plato

Wouldn't dare to desecrate it with my filthy mitts!
They're covered in blood, you know. Hence the name. Blood Demon!

raleigh

(serious) Wow, you must've killed many to earn such a title...

plato

(frowns, closes eyes) My heart aches with the weight of many a soul, whose time I cut short.

raleigh

May I ask... How many lives have you taken?
I have taken my share, and I'll admit, sometimes it... weighs heavily on me.
And yet you're so full of energy and positivity. How do you do it?

plato

(smiles) That's easy. I have never killed anyone.

raleigh

......
What? But you just said...

plato

I never kill anyone. I just knock on my enemies until they go to sleep.
Don't tell Kyra. I don't think she knows that.

raleigh

...You can do that...?
But... Why do they call you “Blood Demon,” then?

plato

Who said anything about “they?” I'm the one who calls me that!
You can call me that too, if you like. Got my blessing.
You're my pal, after all, buddy pal Rally-dude of the rad locks!

raleigh

...Huh.
(smiles) Yeah, sure. I like you too, buddy.

plato

Ayyyyyyyyyyyyo!

[Plato and Raleigh gain C-rank support with each other.]

Laertes

laertes

(smiles) The capital of Tartaros...
You know, I spent some years studying here, in my youth.
That was before the war... Alas, I could never return.
Not without my arms drawn, at the very least.
I would have gleefully conquered this city for Glamorgan, had they not preferred to establish peace at the earliest opportunity.

kyra

...Sigh... Okay, how much do you want this time?

laertes

(frowns) P-Please! I was just getting to that part...
I can hardly stand still, Commander Kyra. Disastrous tidings have reached me.
My granddaughter has fallen sick!

(Kyra starts.)

kyra

What?!

laertes

The letter from my cousin details her symptoms.
Her skin has acquired a blueish hue, her energy has escaped her, and she is febrile. So febrile...

kyra

......

laertes

C-Commander, what causes you to direct such a glare at me?

kyra

My brother has been sick for years.
I had to watch him decay, slowly but surely...
Growing thinner, frailer, hearing his voice become raspier...
I was utterly powerless... I couldn't do anything for him...

(Laetes jumps.)

laertes

Then you understand! You can relate to my pain...

kyra

But the illness my brother came down with was... supposedly incurable.

laertes

......
We are more fortunate, thankfully.
But my granddaughter needs her medicine urgently.
And it is so highly demanded... Supplies are low, and--

kyra

Stop dancing around it and just tell me how much you need.

laertes

5,000 gold. No more, no less.
I am aware that it is a steep sum, but...
My sweet little girl's life may be on the line!
I am beside myself with worry. Please, Commander, help me!
Help my child as you would help your dear brother...

kyra

......
I...

If you agree

laertes

(smiles) Commander... Sniff... I-I... Words cannot express...
My gratitude knows no bounds, and I--

(Kyra looms menacingly.)

kyra

Shut your mouth.

(Laertes backs away.)

laertes

E-Ergh...!

kyra

Listen to me, and listen carefully, you shameless charlatan.
You've gone too far this time. I should break your nose for this.
But unlike you, I'm a decent person, so I'll stay my hand.
But you're going to fall in line and you're going to behave.
I don't want to hear another filthy falsehood out of you.
And don't you dare try to guilt trip me using my brother again!
Am I understood?!

laertes

...I-I... Why, I... verily... Ahem...

(Kyra steps back.)

kyra

Did you even know the name of that little girl I saw when we met?
Hmph... You're lucky I still have use for your lance arm.
Since money does seem to motivate you, you can keep it.
All I care about is winning this and getting my brother back.
But don't make me regret investing in you, or you will be VERY sorry.

(Kyra storms off.)

laertes

W-Wait, Comm...!

...Hmph... Fine. This will have to do...
Our fight is nearing its end, in any case.
Might as well see it through...
I guess I do owe you that much, girl.

[All of Laertes' stats increase by 3.]

If you refuse

(Laertes balks.)

laertes

What?! You won't...?! Please, no!
I beg you to reconsider, Commander!
My granddaughter, she--

(Kyra looms menacingly.)

kyra

Shut your mouth.

(Laertes backs away.)

laertes

E-Ergh...!

kyra

laertes

...I-I... Why, I... verily... Ahem...

(Kyra steps back.)

kyra

Did you even know the name of that little girl I saw when we met?
Hmph... You're lucky I still have use for your lance arm.

(Kyra storms off.)

laertes

W-Wait, Comm...!

Ohh, poppycock! What utter piffle!
I overplayed my hand, clearly... Fie!

Nikolaos & Jason

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

nikolaos

(smiles) Wow... It's an honor to meet you, Sir Jason!

jason

(smiles) Heh. Famous, am I?
But I'm afraid you've got me at a disadvantage. What's your name?

nikolaos

Nikolaos, Sir! And of course you're famous!
You're the guy Kyra hired for 4,000 whole gold!

jason

Ahh, I see what this is all about. You're a mercenary too, aren't you?
But you've never seen so much money together in your life.

nikolaos

(frowns) Sigh... Guilty as charged.
I've been a part of a number of groups since I started.
Some of them were pretty big! They had big names among them!
But the pay's always peanuts, and I'm always the last they pick for jobs.

jason

There's your problem.

nikolaos

Wha-- Already? What part of that is wrong?
The groups? I've tried going up to employers on my own, you know.
(eyes droop) Honestly, that seems to be worse, if anything...

jason

Just sit tight and listen to the guy they hired for 4,000 gold, 'kay?
Groups are cumbersome. Everyone wants a bigger piece of the pie.
The ones who were there first pick on the little new guys.
There's no way to push ahead in that kind of environment.

nikolaos

But... We're in a group right now!

jason

(frowns) Obviously, but this is the bunch we're working for.
We're not competing against anyone. Everyone's getting their wage.
I mean tagging along with merc groups. That's your mistake.
(smirks) I've always flown solo, and look where it's got me!
These shoulderpads are made out of pure gold!

(Nikolaos starts.)

nikolaos

Seriously?!

jason

(frowns) ...Naw. Only some bits. I painted over the rest so it didn't look off.
(smiles) But still! I get to run around with a bit of gold on me.
It's not even any good for protection!
...But it IS good for my image. Everyone remembers the big golden guy.
That's the other thing you need to work on. Something to stand out.

nikolaos

(smiles) Wow... Well, I'm sold! Thanks for the advice!
From here on, I'll be Nikolaos, lone wolf extraordinaire!

jason

(frowns) Well, of course, going at it alone has its downsides, too.
You have to carve your own reputation out from scratch.
And you have to do all the tedious parts of the job yourself.
You sure you're up to face that kind of challenge?

nikolaos

Ahhh, I'll figure it out!
Watch out. Soon I'll be the one stealing jobs from you!

jason

(smiles) Bahahahaha! I like you. You got moxie.
I'll remember your name going forward.

[Nikolaos and Jason gain C-rank support with each other.]

Vasiliki & Scymerius

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

(Vasiliki is crying.)

vasiliki

Sniff... A-Aagh... Sniff...

scymerius

......

vasiliki

Sniff...
(eyes half open) O-Oh... It's you, Scymerius...

scymerius

All right, I guess it falls to me.
What's wrong, girl? C'mon, out with it.

vasiliki

D-Do you know who was there in the last battle?

scymerius

...Yes...

vasiliki

Why? Why'd he have to die?
I don't understand, Scymerius... He wasn't a bad guy.
Why would he fight for Tartaros until he... he...

scymerius

You're lucky, Vasiliki.
You don't know what it is to live with a dark past.
Once you're marked, you're marked forever. People hate a criminal.
And he wasn't like... Well, like me.
I am rotten to the core, and I've long accepted the rot in me.
He could not do that. He would've done anything to escape himself.
Frankly... He's probably more at peace than he'd ever be in life.

vasiliki

B-But... He was nice. That's not...
I don't believe that's what he deserved!

scymerius

And, to be completely honest with you? Neither do I.
But I think he did. What does it matter what we believe, then?
He chose death, and we gave it to him.
Now you have to rise above the sorrow and keep going.

vasiliki

Do you think... that's what he would've wanted?

scymerius

I think that's just what you should do.
The living should never feel indebted to the dead.

vasiliki

......
I know we're not exactly friends, Scymerius, but...
I'm glad you're still alive. I'm glad you're here...

scymerius

Like I said, Vasiliki, you're lucky.
The world hasn't beaten that dumb innocence out of you yet.
...I can only hope it never will.

vasiliki

(smiles) I-I guess that's the closest you'll get to saying something nice to me.
Thank you, Scymerius...

scymerius

...Hmph...

[Vasiliki & Scymerius' support increases to rank B.]

Vasiliki & Fructuoso

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

(Vasiliki is crying.)

vasiliki

Sniff... A-Aagh... Sniff...

fructuoso

Vasiliki...

vasiliki

(eyes half open) O-Oh... Sniff... It's you, Fructuoso...

fructuoso

What's gotten into you, Vasiliki? Please, talk to me...

vasiliki

......
I know it's stupid. You'll laugh at me, but...
It's about Scymerius.

fructuoso

C'mon, I wouldn't laugh at you. You know me better than that.
Heck, I get it. You considered Scymerius a friend, didn't you?

vasiliki

Mmhmm...
I know Scymerius was not a great person. I hardly knew them.
I never even saw their face. I don't know why I care so much.

fructuoso

You care because you're a caring person.
That's just who you are. You can't help it.

vasiliki

W-Well, I don't like it! Sometimes I wish I could just...

fructuoso

Please, don't. The world needs more people like you, and less people like Scymerius or me...

vasiliki

...But you're caring too.

fructuoso

Oh, please. If I was caring, I would never have gotten into crime...
I stole from people. Scared them, threatened them... I'm not like you.

vasiliki

I don't think that's true.
Look, you realized I was sad and came to comfort me, see?
That's not something you'd do if you didn't care...

fructuoso

......
People can be caring and still be bad.

vasiliki

And people can be criminals and still be good.
People aren't simple. That's what I want to believe.
So even if it's stupid... I'll mourn Scymerius, and...
(smiles) I'll treasure my friendship with you.

fructuoso

Heh... Never change, lass.
Don't ever lose that heart of yours, you hear?

[Vasiliki & Fructuoso's support increases to rank B.]

Fructuoso & Scymerius

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

fructuoso

(eyes closed) ......

scymerius

...The heck are you doing?

(Fructuoso startles.)

fructuoso

Whoa!
Ah, it's just you... Y-You startled me...

scymerius

Kneeling, hands clasped... Oh, goodness gracious.
Don't tell me you were praying.

fructuoso

Yeah, so what? That's not illegal, is it?
I felt I had to do something, after what happened last battle...

scymerius

......
It's about the girl, isn't it.

fructuoso

You and me, our souls are stained with crime and sin.
It only makes sense for us to end up like that, right?
But that girl... She was completely innocent!

scymerius

And yet she stood by Tartaros to reach her own goals.

(Fructuoso shifts.)

fructuoso

S-She was looking out for her family!
That's a noble reason, unlike any I've ever had...

scymerius

Noble, and selfish. Not to mention narrow-minded.
That girl was so focused on the stupid money...
She couldn't see that, by tossing her life away, she'll ruin her parents' lives.
It won't matter if they escape poverty. Their child is gone.

fructuoso

Y-You...! Why must you be so... so...

(Fructuoso sputters.)

Urgh!

scymerius

Pardon me. Everyone's got their own coping mechanisms.
You may be content to whisper pretty phrases for her soul, but...
All I know is that the blood of children is on my hands.
Nihilism promises that it does not matter.
I have to latch on to that, or face the fact that I'm a monster.

fructuoso

......
Children... plural?

scymerius

You should count your lucky stars, Fructuoso.
As far as bad guys go, you were small-time.
Your crimes do not run as deep as mine.
You can still fancy yourself a good person...

fructuoso

...But for that same reason, I can sympathize with you.

scymerius

Foolish.

fructuoso

Seriously. It's deeper down... You might not know it yourself.
But I can tell. You regret, just as much as I do.

scymerius

......
Bah. I'm the foolish one. By now I should be better than this...

fructuoso

Just swallow your pride and accept the friendship, dammit.

scymerius

Sigh... Fine. It's your funeral.

(Fructuoso starts.)

fructuoso

...!

scymerius

I don't mean it literally, dummy.

fructuoso

Y-Yeesh... With you, I can never tell...

[Scymerius & Fructuoso's support increases to rank B.]

Pheme & Kairos

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

pheme

Um... Father Kairos?

kairos

(smiles) Oh, if it isn't Pheme. What can I do you for?

pheme

Father, I understand this is sudden, but I didn't know who else to turn to.
Would it be too much trouble for you if I... made a confession?

kairos

(frowns) ......
Perhaps we should find a more secluded spot.
Who knows... SOMEONE could be listening to us right now.

pheme

That's okay. If someone is indeed eavesdropping...
It's probably me that got them in the habit of it to begin with.
Don't worry. I'm just reaping what I sowed.

kairos

...Oh... Well...

pheme

I'm afraid, Father Kairos. I'm... so scared...

kairos

Of course. I am too.
Who knows how many of us will survive the coming battle?
To be scared in the face of such fraught danger is only natural.

pheme

No, that's not it.
Father, I... I hate them. I look forward to watching them die.
In fact... I want to kill them myself.
I want to cave Soter's head in.
I want to set an arrow ablaze and shoot it into Sandraudiga's black heart.
Do to them what they did to me. To my brother...
I'm terrified of... myself. I can't escape these dark thoughts.
What is happening to me, Father?

kairos

......
It's a tricky thing. I cannot simply give you a lecture about the value of human life.
The harsh truth is, these people you hate cannot be allowed to roam freely.
They've proven time and time again that there's only one way they'll be stopped.
And yet... We cannot find enjoyment in their deaths. That path is dangerous...

pheme

...Am I lost, Father?
It wouldn't be so surprising. I've never been a good person.
You know what the highlight of my day used to be?
Stumbling upon a spicy new bit of gossip I could push around.
When someone got made fun of because of a rumor I spread, I felt so proud.
(smiles) Heh. No wonder nobody liked me. What an awful idiot I was...

kairos

You were a kid, Pheme. Kids can be remarkably cruel.
They don't yet have a firm grasp on good and evil.
Usually that is something we pick up as we grow up...
And you've been forced to grow up much too fast, Pheme.

pheme

Sandraudiga and Soter were kids once too, weren't they?

kairos

All right. How about this?
I cannot tell you to sit this fight out. Not if we need you.
But when the deed is done... I want you to seek Kyra out.
Give her the tightest hug you can muster.
Don't say anything. Cry if you must, but do not speak.
Just clear your mind in the comfort of a friend's warmth.

pheme

...Huh... That's it?

kairos

(smiles) And of course, consider saying a prayer. Could help, you never know.
(serious) ...When this is all well and truly over, that's when the healing process may begin.
Seek me out then, if you like. We can talk more about it.

pheme

Yeah... What was I expecting?
Of course I wasn't going to get better after one conversation.

kairos

Only the Mother can perform miracles.
The most important thing is that you do not lose hope, and that you understand that you are not a bad person.
The fact that you worry about this is clear proof of that.

pheme

(smiles) ...Well... Even if you can't do miracles, it was still helpful talking to you.
Thanks a lot.

kairos

(smiles) No sweat. It's my job, after all.

[Pheme and Kairos gain C-rank support with each other.]

Chapter 25 Hestia

hestia

How're you feeling, Kyra?

kyra

Tired.
I just... want this to be over.
I want to be able to properly mourn Elias...
And Pheme... Percote... So much bad stuff has happened...
I'm just... tired, Hestia.

hestia

......

kyra

What's with the weird expression?

hestia

Nothing. I... Well...
I had something for you, but maybe this isn't the right time.
I feel selfish for even considering bringing this up, at this time...

kyra

Hestia, I don't need the world to stop around me.
On the contrary. Any distraction is welcome right now.
What have you got?

hestia

I think this is it. My masterpiece, Kyra.
Look...

kyra

Wow... This is the prettiest bow I've ever seen...

hestia

Not to brag, but... Probably the best, too.
I poured my heart and soul into this.
I was so worried I wouldn't have it done in time.
Then again, it'd have been better if this ended back in Amnisos...

kyra

......
Is that really all, Hestia?

hestia

I....

kyra

C'mon. Where's all the confidence you always show?
There's no time like the present. Seriously.
Just say what you have to say.

If Kyra has B-rank support with Hestia

hestia

Look, I... I may have told you before, I've come to care a great deal about you.
You're like a hero right out of a tale. Strong, kind and determined.
And, well... I like your little sense of humor. And I think you're really pretty.

kyra

(smiles) Oh, yeah?

hestia

(smiles) Prettier than any fancy bow I could ever make.

kyra

......

hestia

......

kyra

I-I have no idea what to say.

hestia

Well... I guess I'll make it easy for you.
I'd like to be with you, going forward.
I'd like to be a part of your life, because...
Well, I like you. I like you a lot.
Do you... feel the same way, maybe?

kyra

You have no idea.

hestia

Oh?

kyra

That means yes, silly.

hestia

...Oh...

kyra

(serious) A lot of bad stuff has happened lately, yeah.
I get why you felt awkward about bringing this up now...
(smiles) But I'm glad you did, because I feel happy all of a sudden.
I didn't think it'd be possible, so soon after... You know.
But you've made it possible. Thanks for that.
I can't wait for you to sweeten the rest of my life, too.

(Hestia starts.)

hestia

...W-Whoa, where did all that come from...?
I mean, I love that... It's great that you feel that way!

kyra

And with that, I better get going. Time's short, remember?

(Kyra kisses Hestia.)

See you around.

(Kyra leaves.)

hestia

A-Ah...!

...Heh... W-Well. That's... Huh.
Now we definitely can't lose this.

[Kyra & Hestia's support increases to rank A.]

Cupid
A bow of love.

If Kyra does not have B-rank support with Hestia

hestia

...It's all right.
I'm just glad to have you as my friend, Kyra.

kyra

Me too. I don't know what we'd do without you.

hestia

Probably all right...

kyra

(smiles) Are you kidding me? You're such a big help!
And a really good friend that I cherish.

hestia

Heh... Thanks, Kyra.
Here's hoping we can keep being friends for a long, long time.

kyra

Gotta win this to be able to do that. Are you ready?

hestia

Ready and raring!

Cupid
A bow of friendship.

[Note: The "love" Cupid is significantly stronger.]

Tiresias & Wulfric

If Wulfric is alive

kyra

I guess it's pointless to ask that you stay here, Tiresias?

tiresias

Need you even ask? This is a pivotal moment.
I'm not going to force you to bring me along...
But if you think I could be of any use at all?
Do not hesitate. I beg of you.

kyra

You have nothing to say about this, Wulfric?

tiresias

(smiles) He was just about ready to beg me to stay before.
But I appealed to his sense of honor.

wulfric

(smiles) My one weakness. There was nothing I could do.
(serious) This battle is for the good of all.
The consequences of failure would be catastrophic.
We cannot let ourselves be blinded by sentimentality.
We must all do our part, for everything is on the line.
If there was ever a time for sacrifices... It is now, I fear.

kyra

The danger will be greater than any we've faced.
Are you two absolutely certain...?

tiresias

Certain enough that you should not concern yourself.
(smiles) That being said, I am confident we will survive this debacle.
We are being led by you, and I trust none other more.
...Well, save for you, of course, Wulfric, my dear.

wulfric

Please, I am not so arrogant. I can recognize my betters.
I don't know what you plan on doing next, Dame Kyra...
But you will go far. This I believe.

kyra

...Okay, fine. But keep yourselves safe above all, got it?
I couldn't forgive myself if I saw you two torn apart...

wulfric

(smiles) I promise.

tiresias

I may not be able to see the future, but I believe it will be bright.
We shall make it so!

wulfric

Hear, hear!

If Wulfric is dead

kyra

I guess it's pointless to ask that you stay here, Tiresias?

tiresias

Need you even ask? This is a pivotal moment.
I'm not going to force you to bring me along...
But if you think I could be of any use at all?
Do not hesitate. I beg of you.

kyra

...I guess I do owe you the vote of confidence.

tiresias

This battle is for the good of all.
The consequences of failure would be catastrophic.
We cannot let ourselves be blinded by sentimentality.
We must all do our part, for everything is on the line.
If there was ever a time for sacrifices... It is now, I fear.
At least... I believe Wulfric would have said something like that.

kyra

The danger will be greater than any we've faced.
Are you absolutely certain...?

tiresias

I don't want to sit here and wait for news, good or bad.
Alone with my thoughts, wondering how many of you will return.
How many will have gone to join Wulfric in the great beyond...

kyra

...Forgive me, Tiresias... It's my fault.
My leadership was poor, and it got him--

tiresias

No. That, I do not wish to hear, Kyra.
Let us do what we must.
We will both have time to mourn our loved ones after.

kyra

...Fine...

Eupraxia & Thyone

If Eupraxia is present

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

thyone

Could you be...?

eupraxia

My lady consort...

thyone

(smiles) I thought so.
We are at the age where decades hardly make such a difference.

eupraxia

......
Dolus was still an adorable wailing babe when we last...
To think, he is now... Forgive me, Thyone.

thyone

You know something, Eupraxia?
You two saved my life. You and he.

eupraxia

Me? I was with the rest of our group. So close, yet so far...

thyone

My son gave his life to protect me. But...
I think the only reason my husband did not try to kill me afterwards, is that he feared my magic... The magic that you taught me.

eupraxia

I only taught you the basics. The power you command now is exceptional.
You have reached this point by means of rigorous training over the years.
The merit belongs to you and to you alone, Thyone.

thyone

Be that as it may, I only kept it up for you.
So that when one day we met again...
You could see how far your pupil had come.

eupraxia

(smiles) Hoho... I dare say you have far surpassed the master.
There is nothing I could teach you now.
Quite the opposite, in fact...

thyone

(smiles) It would be my pleasure to show you what I've learned.
Though I hear you serve some excellent tea.
Might I trouble you for a cup at some point?
I... Truth be told, I am just filled with joy to see you again.
Despite the circumstances, spending time with you again...
It is a heartening prospect. Surely you feel the same?

eupraxia

(serious) I do, Thyone, very much. But...
I'm afraid for the nonce, I have no choice but to refuse.
All of my attention must be set on what comes next.
There is one more thing we must do... One more thing I must do.

thyone

......
Eupraxia, I would do battle in your stead, if you so wish.
You need only ask.

eupraxia

A kind gesture that I appreciate, but that too, I must refuse.
You have a duty to your son, Thyone.
You must survive, that his sacrifice not be in vain.
I... have a different duty to my own child.

thyone

Eupraxia, that is not something any parent should have to do!
Even if their child may be...

eupraxia

A living nightmare.

thyone

......

eupraxia

I have spent years steeling myself for the moment that will soon come to pass.
I need not be coddled and kept away. My hand shall not falter.
It will bring me great sorrow... But it will also lift an equally great burden.

thyone

I can see I will not break your resolve.
But at the least, let me stand together with you.
In wronging you... She, too, wronged me.
Let us face her together. Just like in the old days.

eupraxia

(smiles) ...Thank you, Thyone. Truly.
You brighten my darkest days, just as you once did.

thyone

(smiles) Only because you do the same for me.

[Eupraxia and Thyone gain A-rank support with each other.]

If Eupraxia is absent

thyone

......

kyra

Consort? You seem a little out of it...

thyone

Ah, pardon me.
There was someone... I had hoped to see among your troops.
It was foolish, perhaps. She could be anywhere, doing anything.
Perhaps she does not even live any longer...
Ah, don't worry about me. I am prepared for battle.

kyra

Still can hardly believe you're a fighter.
You really don't look the part... Ah, sorry, I didn't mean to--

thyone

No, no, you're quite correct.
I learned the art of spellcasting as a hobby of sorts.
I had a good teacher that I wished to make proud.
It is she I had hoped to see, but that's all right.
I am glad just to have the power to assist you in this key moment.

kyra

Watch your back, all right?

thyone

You as well, Commander Kyra...

Pericles & Agari

If Agari is alive

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

agari

Dad! There's something--

pericles

Ah, Agari. I wanted to talk to you about...
Er, well... Please, you go first, Agari.

agari

N-No, by all means, Dad! Go ahead!

pericles

Ahem... Well, you see...
I wished to ask you to remain here. This will be our most perilous trial yet.
There are enough of us. You have no need to risk your life.

agari

......

Pffft! Hahahahaha!

pericles

Ergh... That is... not quite the reaction I had expected...

agari

(smiles) It's just... Dad, that's exactly what I was going to ask you.
Word for word. Exact same thing.

pericles

What? Truly? But, Agari, I can't just...
There is too much at stake! I can't just take my leave now!

agari

(frowns) And yet I can?

pericles

......
Sigh... I cannot come back from that one.

agari

(smiles) No siree, you cannot.
I guess all we can do is go into this together, huh.

pericles

(smiles) It would be my honor.
(serious) I only ask that you be careful.
Digging your grave would be more difficult than any battle...

agari

Could say the same to you.

pericles

......

agari

Dad, do you think... Mom's watching over us?

pericles

Certainly. Wherever she is, right now...
She is looking down on you, and praying for your safety.

agari

......
You know what I want to do after this, Dad?

pericles

Hmm? Oh, please, do tell.

agari

I want to help you love yourself as much as I love you.

(Pericles balks.)

pericles

Huh?!

agari

Please, Dad... Stop saying things like what you just did.
Seeing you hurt all the time, it... It hurts me too.
I know it's not that easy, but... You have to forgive yourself.
Mom's not just watching over me. She's watching over you too.

pericles

......

(Pericles closes his eyes and sobs.)

agari

D-Dad...?

pericles

I-I... Oh, Agari...
I will try. I swear I will try, Agari...
(smiles, opens eyes) For you.

agari

(smiles) Thank you, Dad...

[Agari & Pericles' support increases to rank A.]

If Agari is dead

pericles

Kyra. Are we ready to depart?
The less time we spend here, the better.

kyra

I get that, but we need the troops to be somewhat rested.
Trust me, I don't intend on laying about here forever.

pericles

Of course you do not. Forgive my impertinence.

kyra

Don't worry about it...

pericles

......
I had never dreamed I would come this far without...
I always assumed it'd be with her, or not at all.
The Mother is cruel to force me to linger.

kyra

Pericles, listen... I'm worried about you.
You don't intend on doing anything stupid, right?

pericles

Stupid such as throw away my life in that tower?
Or perhaps you fear I will leap from it when the battle ends.

kyra

Pericles...

pericles

What would you have me do, Kyra? Pretend everything is fine?
My daughter is dead. Nothing will ever change that.

kyra

But there are still people who care about you, Pericles.
Hestia, Edward, me... We'd all be devastated if you...
And besides, that's not what she would've wanted you to do!

I'm sorry. All I can offer are tired lines you've probably already heard...

pericles

......
Forgive me... The pain, it is... unbearable.
I cannot close my eyes without seeing her face in the dark...
But... I will try. I will try my best, Kyra. I swear it.

kyra

I guess that's all I can ask of you, Pericles...

Pluto

pluto

Commander.

kyra

Ah!
Oh, sorry. Not used to you speaking up...

pluto

......

kyra

Yeah, that's more like the Pluto I know.
Look, I don't really have time to--

pluto

Sorry.

kyra

...Sorry?

pluto

A-About your brother.
The kid was... nice. I liked seeing him around camp.
We played catch one time. He was... nice.

kyra

......

pluto

I don't know if you'll have use for me, but...
Let me know if you do. I'm ready to fight.

kyra

You know, come to think of it, you've been here since nearly the start.

pluto

......
Forgive me. I'm... really bad at this.
Trying to improve. It's difficult.
But uh... I'm glad I joined you guys.

kyra

Glad to have you too, Pluto.
Let's end this, eh?

pluto

(smiles) ...Let's.

Hecate & Kairos

If Hecate & Kairos are alive

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

kairos

(smiles) Hey there. How's my favorite sinner holding up on this beautiful dawn?

hecate

Beautiful, Kairos?
We are all that stands between Sandraudiga and absolute power.
We're probably going to have to face Soter in there, too.
Heck, even the weather's garbage. Today could not possibly be worse.

kairos

(frowns) Hey, I've got to keep my spirits up somehow.
Everything I ever believed in has crumbled to bits, and we might all have our necks wrung by an immortal maniac.
Can't let it all get to my head, you know?

If Hecate & Kairos have B-rank support

(smiles) So I thought, what better way to lighten the mood, than to pay a visit to my favorite person in the world?

hecate

...I suppose you're right.
(smiles) Honestly, I feel better myself, now that you're here.
You've got a weird talent to cheer me up, preacher.

kairos

(smiles) Do I? I'm not doing anything special, you know.

hecate

No, you just make sure to turn on the charm when I'm around.
Subtlety is not your forte, preacher.

kairos

Neither is it yours, my dearest maiden of the dark.

If Hecate & Kairos have B-rank support

kairos

The looks you give me sometimes follow me to my dreams...

hecate

Hah... The evil witch gives you nightmares now?

kairos

Only the most exciting kind of nightmare.

(Hecate jumps.)

hecate

Ahahaha! Oh, you're the worst, Kairos...
I was so comfortable before, I'll have you know.
My heart was an impregnable fortress.
But now the fortress has come under a hail of boulders,
and I fear the walls cannot withstand it much longer.

kairos

I can let up just a tad, if you ask nicely.

hecate

On the contrary. It's high time the walls came down.

hecate

Kairos... What do you intend on doing when this is over?

kairos

(serious) Well... Someone will have to handle the fallout.
The church is going to be in shambles after all this.
I might stick around. See what I can do to help.
And you?

hecate

I guess that's what I'll be doing too, then.

kairos

Oh...
(smiles) Heh, well... I could do far worse for a companion in my quest.
Who knows. Maybe a pinch of the unholy is just what the church needs...

hecate

(smiles) Has anyone ever told you you're a terrible priest?

kairos

(smiles) A few times. Sometimes I say it myself.

hecate

Well, they're wrong, and so are you.
You're the greatest priest in the land.

kairos

Hah...

If Hecate & Kairos have B-rank support

hecate

(closes eyes) Now, while we still have a bit of time left...
Embrace me, and take me to the heavens.

kairos

(closes eyes) With pleasure...

[Kairos & Hecate's support increases to rank A.]

If Hecate is dead

kairos

(closes eyes) ...And might we be kept from...
...darkness and...
(opens eyes) Kyra. What's up?

kyra

Oh, carry on. Don't mind me.

kairos

It's okay. I'm done now.

kyra

How're you feeling?

kairos

Well, everything I ever believed in has crumbled to pieces,
and we might all have our necks wrung by an immortal maniac.
Hasn't been the best week of my life, I have to say.

kyra

Yeah, I figured...

kairos

Now's when I could really use a snarky quip or two to brighten the mood.
Perhaps from a certain lady of darkness that we lost along the way.

kyra

...I miss her too, Kairos.

kairos

All we can do now is pray for her sinner's soul.
Ah, but I'm sure she's okay, wherever she is.
Resourceful, that one. If she is denied entry to Heaven,
I suspect she might just find a way to sneak inside.

kyra

You'd think by now I'd be used to you saying the wildest things for a priest...

kairos

I know it's weird, but well...
I'd like to believe that, when I ascend myself, I will be shocked to find her there, waiting for me.

......
We cannot fail, Kyra. This must end today.
The Grand Inquisitor has to pay for her sins.
Or else there is no true justice in this world.

kyra

She will. Count on it, Kairos.

kairos

Mmhmm... It's reassuring to hear that.

If Kairos is dead

kyra

Hecate. Are you doing okay?

hecate

What do you think? Soon we'll confront Soter.
I'll have to look him in the eye, and then try to kill him.
I wonder if that'll make me feel better or worse...

kyra

There's a lot of us, Hecate. Many without our attachments.
We can leave it to them to... take care of Soter.

hecate

How selfish would that be?
I'll fight him if the situation calls for it. That's all there is to it.
And then I'll pat myself on the back and try to console myself.

kyra

We're all here for you. Myself first and foremost.
Don't forget that, Hecate.

hecate

I know, and I appreciate it.
...But, well... No offense, but you're not as good at it, and you've got your own problems to deal with.
If only Kairos was still here... He'd know the right thing to say.

kyra

...I miss him too, Hecate.

hecate

I wonder if he'd want me to pray for him, or if he'd find it amusing I'm toying with the idea.
I guess I'll never know. He is dead.
There's one thing I know for sure, though.
He'd want Sandraudiga to get a royal walloping from us.
So let's see that we do that, huh?
For him, for your brother, for everyone else they've hurt...

kyra

I'm glad to have you on our side, Hecate.

hecate

And I'm glad to be here... Despite everything.

Phobos

kyra

Phobos? Got a minute?

phobos

Only if you do.
I don't want to keep you. You must be quite busy.

kyra

I just wanted to say that...
If you don't want to do this, you don't need to.

phobos

Let's not start, okay, Kyra?
Believe it or not... I don't really feel afraid right now.
Maybe it's because I'm mad.
I'm so angry I can barely see straight...

kyra

That's... new.

phobos

I'm angry at Apate for not helping your brother when she could have.
I'm angry at the Mother for taking him so young.
I'm angry at myself for not knowing what to say to you in this moment...

kyra

Phobos, please! There's no need...

phobos

But, more than anyone? I'm angry at them.
At that madwoman Sandraudiga, and that pile of trash Soter...
How dare they. After all the misery they've caused.
After all the people they killed in Percote.
After they took your brother... After what they did to Pheme...
They think they can just... carry on, like it was nothing?!
No, Kyra. I'm not afraid to die or to get hurt.
Just as long as I can see those monsters beaten...!

kyra

Phobos... Look, I'm glad that you're feeling motivated.
But this isn't like you, and... I don't like it.
Please, I'm begging you. Relax!
You're my friend. I don't want to lose you too...

phobos

I... I-I'm sorry. Kyra, it's just...

kyra

I feel it too. Believe me, I do.
But... Elias would never forgive me if I let that rage consume me.
For everyone we've lost, and for everyone we still have, Phobos...
Don't lose sight of what matters. Promise me that.

phobos

......
I promise.

kyra

Thank you...

phobos

(smiles) No, thank you, Kyra. For everything.

kyra

(smiles) Phobos...

Raleigh

raleigh

I've got to say, if I knew the sheer amount of trouble you'd get me into,
I might've just refused you back in the brigands' fort.

kyra

I'm not any happier about the way this has turned out than you.

raleigh

...Of course not. Sorry.
I'm just thinking the military life isn't for me, and never was.
Don't worry. I'll see this through to the end. I'd feel worse if I didn't.
But after this is all said and done, I'll go back to my pa.
Finally give a whirl to inheriting the family business.
We'll see how that turns out. But if I ever pick up a weapon again...
It will surely be a thousand years too soon!

kyra

Well, that's what we're fighting for, isn't it?
We're fighting for peace and for a better future.
We're fighting so we don't have to fight anymore.

raleigh

And that is what has kept me from deserting.
I may be tired and frustrated and hurting everywhere...
(smiles) But I admit, just the tiniest bit proud to stand with you.
So don't worry. My lance and my tome are yours.
Let's wrap this up, shall we?

kyra

Couldn't have said it better myself.

Nikolaos

kyra

Hi... Uh...

nikolaos

Yeah? What is it?

kyra

Sorry, uh, I'm just... Not exactly sure...

nikolaos

Who I am, what's my name and what I'm doing here?
That's all right. I get that a lot.
Heck, even I couldn't tell you the answer to that last one.
I'm just some guy! I'm not meant to save the world!

kyra

So... What? You gonna be on your way or what?

nikolaos

(smiles) Nah... If I stick around, I can become a hero.
That'll work wonders for my reputation.
Finally, no longer will I just be some guy.
I'll be a top o' the crop, big leagues mercenary!
Nations will drown me in gold to get my spear!

kyra

...Okay, then. Good to have you.
Be ready. It won't be long now.

nikolaos

Make sure you give me something really flashy and cool to do!

Begoña

Kyra! O'er here!

kyra

Begoña...

Begoña

I ain't gonna give ya any sappy words, if that's what yer expectin'.
...I figure you must've had it up to here with those.

kyra

A little bit, but I still appreciate it, you know.
Everyone just wants me to feel better...

Begoña

Aye, true that...
You know, I had a sibling once, myself.
Big sister, in my case.

kyra

Did you?

Begoña

Mmhmm. Got started in the thievin' business with her.
...She got herself stabbed tryin' to pickpocket the wrong guy.
Held her hand as she died'n everythin'.
So, uh... For what lil' it's worth, I feel ya, Kyra.

kyra

......

Begoña

Look, there's a lot I regret. Lotta things I'd do differently.
But joinin' you? That's the best choice I ever made my whole life.
Watchin' something so rotten happen to you and your only family left...
Makes my blood boil, I'll tell ya. My axe's thirsty for inquisitor blood!
So let me at 'em! Let's do right by yer brother!

kyra

I am... grateful for your candor, Begoña.
But tone it down a notch, would you? I don't think revenge is what he'd want.
We're doing this because Sandraudiga needs to be stopped. Nothing else.

Begoña

(smiles) ...Even after all you've been through, ya don't give up on yer ideals.
Those pesky ideals o' yours that gave me so much trouble back in the day...
Heh. Almost makes me feel honored t'have been yer very first rival.

kyra

(smiles) Personally, I'm happier now that you're no longer a criminal and we're friends.

Begoña

Friends, eh... Yeah. Guess that we are.
'Aight, then! For justice and friendship it is!
Damn does that feel utterly revoltin' to say! Hahaha!

kyra

Sigh... Some things just can't change, I guess.

Fango & López

If Fango & López are alive

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

López

Well, Fango...
This is it. The moment of truth.
Either we go home heroes, or we go down corpses.

fango

Or we go down heroes... That's somethin' that could happen too.
Honestly, wouldn't mind. I mean, what even is “home” for us?

López

Don't be such a drag, man. Home's wherever you make it be!

fango

What's that even mean...?

López

...Does it have to mean anythin'?
(smiles) C'mon, man, cheer up! We're about to save the whole damn world!

fango

Yeah, I'm just... worried 'bout what comes after that.
Where are we gonna go? What are we gonna do?
We ain't good at anythin' but tusslin' and stealin'.

López

(still smiling) Eh. I'm not too concerned.
What happens to us small fry after this isn't important.
Bigger things goin' on here than you and me, buddy.

fango

Y-Yeah, but like... I'm afraid we're gonna have to go back.
Got my taste of bein' a hero. Can't go back to bein' the villain.

López

(frowns) Crud, hadn't thought of it that way...
Oh no, I won't be Commander Kyra's enemy again!
I'd rather die!

fango

See? See?! You get me now, man!

López

No, I don't! We ain't gonna end up like that, y'hear?!
We're gonna be fine! We'll find our place in this world...
And if there ain't none? We'll carve us one!
There ain't nothing we can't do together! Just ya wait!

(Fango pumps his fist.)

fango

(smiles) Awww, yeah! Now that's what I'm talkin' about!
You and me, pal! We're gonna eat up the world!

(López cheers.)

López

(smiles) Heroes of the present, heroes of the morrow!
Never again the scourge of the innocent!
We're gonna be good people till the day we die!

fango

Everything's possible long as we stick together!

If Begoña is alive

fango

Maybe we'll even get rid of that awful stench o' yours!

López

Ahhh, I'm too psyched to get angry at you for that, Fango.
C'mon! C'mon! Let's go beat that Sandregregious girl silly!

fango

Let's grind her rotten skull to dust!
You, me-- Oh, and the boss, 'course!
We're gonna be the heroes o' this story!

López

The three finest heroes there ever was!

fango

Yeaaaah! Bring it on!

(Begoña looks on from afar.)

Begoña

...My boys...
(smiles) Heh... We've come so far, haven't we.

(eyes droop) Tch... G-Gonna bring a tear to my eye at this rate...!

[Begoña, López, & Fango gain a rank of support with each other.]

If Begoña is dead

fango

That's what the boss always used to say...

López

(serious) Yeah... And the boss was always right.

(López jumps.)

López

(smiles) Let's do it for her, too! Let's make 'er proud!
C'mon! C'mon! Let's go beat that Sandregregious girl silly!

fango

Let's grind her rotten skull to dust!
Send 'er to the boss so she can get a turn too!

López

That's morbid as heck, Fango, but I'm sure she'd appreciate it!

fango

Yeaaaah! Bring it on!

[López & Fango gain a rank of support with each other.]

If Fango is dead

kyra

Hello, López...

López

Hello, boss.
Are we setting out already?

kyra

Not yet. I'm just making the rounds.
Seeing how everyone's doing and all.

López

Aha...
I'm just waiting for the word go right now.
Go ahead and keep at it.

kyra

You don't seem like your usual self, López...

López

I can't even muster the energy for a sarcastic quip.
It's not fun when Fango's not there to laugh it up...

kyra

Fango...

López

Look, he may've been a hopeless “no brains, all brawn” thug, but...
He had a heart, dammit. He was a decent fella.
I'm the guy that stinks, in every sense.
It's not fair that he's the one who had to die...
Dammit, it shoulda been me. I should've died instead of him...

kyra

Neither of you should've died, López.

López

......
I appreciate you sayin' that, Kyra. Even if you don't mean it.

kyra

I do.

López

...Hmm...
Well, I know what he'd be tellin' me to do if he could.
Put a bow on this horrible business, and cut those bastards to ribbons!
So, that's what I'm gonna do, if you think I could help at all.

kyra

If you can, I'll make sure to let you know.

If López is dead

kyra

Hello, Fango...

fango

Ah. Hi, boss.
Is it time to get goin' already?

kyra

Not yet. I'm just making the rounds.
Seeing how everyone's doing and all.

fango

Mm...
Well, I'm good to go whenever.
Gimme a holler when it's time.

kyra

You don't seem like your usual self, Fango...

fango

Yeah... I'm feeling a little down in the dumps.
I... I miss my buddy, Kyra...

kyra

López...

fango

I know he was a stinky mean jerk, but...
He was my buddy! We had a... rapport, I guess?
Sometimes I forget he's gone, y'know.
I'll think of something stupid and I'll turn to say it to him,
and then I remember and I wanna cry a river.

kyra

Fango, I...

fango

No, please, don't do it. It's okay.
I'll just honor his memory, best as I can.
Put me to work! Let me help you save the world!

kyra

I will. I swear.

Polonius

polonius

Eeheeheeheeheeheehee!
Oh, Commander Kyra, they have no idea what they've done!
Those weak, pitiful, pathetic, lowly, miserable little worms have done it!
They have incurred the wrath, rage and fury of I, the great Polonius!
For their transgressions, I shall inflict a hundred curses of pain upon them!
No, no-- A thousand! A million! A BILLION TRILLION curses!
Agony unparalleled... Destruction limitless! Eeheeheeheeheehee!

kyra

...If I'm not imagining things...
You're saying you want to punish them for all their crimes?

polonius

Eeheeheeheeheehee!
'Tis not every day a necromancer of my stature admits this, but...
You, Commander Kyra, are a joy to work under! I am honored!
May you never stray from the path of wicked good, lest I be forced...
to gently lead you back onto it. Eeheeheeheeheehee!

kyra

......
I can never tell what the heck you're trying to say.
Please get serious for once in your life.
The stakes are too high. I don't want you goofing around.

(Kyra leaves.)

polonius

Eeheeheehee... Worry not, my dear commander.
Never before in my life had I been so focused!

Ofelia

ofelia

Hello, Commander.

kyra

Ofelia.

ofelia

......

kyra

What is it?

ofelia

Well... I've got a younger brother too, you know.

kyra

How could I forget?

ofelia

So you see... I understand your situation.
We may not have always seen eye to eye,
and I may find your demeanor and fashion sense utterly boorish,
but in this, I quite sympathize. My heart goes out to you.

kyra

...Thanks.
I guess.

ofelia

Have my talents been of use to you?
I certainly hope they have been.
I'd feel terrible if I've been a burden to you.

kyra

No, honestly, you've been a real help.
I won't lie, I didn't think you'd be, but...
Well, I was wrong. Thanks for sticking with us.

ofelia

It has been an interesting experience, performing on your stages of war.
I believe it has helped to advance my craft quite a fair bit.
I suspect my career shall soar past the current affair.
And of course... It was nice to contribute to a righteous cause.
(smiles) Why, I should be the one thanking you, for providing me this opportunity.

kyra

You're welcome. Now let's get it over with, huh?

ofelia

See you on the other side, Commander.

Conan

conan

Ahh, I had not felt this familiar sense of anticipation in quite some time.
It is much like when I faced particularly fearsome opponents at the arena.
Then again... I do not believe I ever faced any opponents this terrible.
Nor were the stakes ever so high. Back then, it was only my life on the line.

kyra

Could well be the lives of everyone in this country now.

conan

This country and beyond, Commander.

kyra

Yeah...

conan

At the same time, never had I been surrounded by so many good allies.
All things considered... I believe I have faced worse odds.
Were I the betting man, my money would be on you and yours.

kyra

That's reassuring to hear from a seasoned warrior like you.

conan

You are a born leader, Commander. You bring people together.
Sandraudiga leads through fear and powerlust. You lead through trust.
This gift that you possess and she does not will grant you the edge you need.
It may sound a little... typical, but that does not make it any less true.

kyra

Thanks a lot, Conan.
It's been a pleasure having you among us.
Make sure you come out the other end alive, you hear?

conan

I shall do all in my power, Commander Kyra.

Dahl

dahl

It has been a curious experience fighting for you, Commander Kyra.
You're not someone I would have expected to have such potential.
No, I think had I been made to bet on a side...
I would have placed my bets on the Grand Inquisitor.

kyra

That's all right, Dahl. I'd have done the same.

dahl

On the contrary. It is anything but “all right.”
Perhaps this calls for some self-introspection.
How can I hope to manipulate the pieces on the board, when I cannot anticipate the movements of the players?
Clearly I must learn to think more outside the box.

kyra

I have no idea what you're talking about, but...
It's been good having you with us, Dahl.
Here's hoping we both make it to the end.

dahl

(smiles) Mm... Perhaps this is it.
Your ability to trust has been tested, but it was not toppled.
Building bonds with those around you may be your strength.
It sounds like such a tired fantasy trope, and yet...
Mayhap there is credence to it.

Ah, well. Food for future thought.
In the meantime, my spear is yours, as ever.

kyra

Good to hear it, Dahl. Stay safe, you hear?

dahl

You have no need to worry.

Alonso

alonso

Heed the howling wind bellow, commandant thee.
Portends it a great many omens of victory and defeat alike.
Struggles come to an end, tyrants defenestrated.
The laughter of children in a world of light and radiance!
Such is thy charge. Might the Lady Mother see thee through.

kyra

Would it kill you to speak like a human being for once?

alonso

No force in the heavens might force my tongue in sequitur!
Mine words carry the weight of forebears' hope and dream.
Villainy trembles before us, champions of tragedy!

kyra

......
Tell me something, Alonso. Do you have a family?
Wife? Kids? Anyone at all waiting back home?

alonso

...Perchance, blessed not was I with the divinity of love.
Nevertheless I carry on, for my lady of love lies ahead!

kyra

I guess hope never dies, huh.
Thanks for all the help, Alonso. It's been an honor.
I hope you find what you're looking for one day.

(Kyra leaves.)

alonso

(smiles) ...Aye... And I pray you find happiness...

Teresa

teresa

(smiles) Hey, Commander! I've got a brilliant idea!
How about me and Rouncey fly up to the top of the tower, scoop Sandraudiga up and drop her to her death?
That'd save us a whole bunch of time and hassle, right?

kyra

I like the idea, but...
They'd probably shoot you out of the air before you could reach her...

teresa

(frowns) Yeah, you're right... She's probably got a small army of archers waiting...
And, thinking about it, I don't know if Rouncey could lift that woman up.
Girl's massive, and that ornate armor of hers looks awfully heavy...

kyra

I think we'd better do this the old fashioned way, Teresa.
But imagining Sandraudiga plummeting from the sky has cheered me up a tad.
So thanks for that.

teresa

(smiles) Glad to have been of service, Commander!
Here's hoping there aren't any more surprises after this.
I look forward to a long, long vacation...

kyra

Don't we all...

Jane & Delilah

If Jane & Delilah are alive

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

delilah

Jane!

jane

Hey there, Mistress...
W-Wow, that tower sure is tall, isn't it?
And it's probably brimming with super strong soldiers...

delilah

Indeed. This will be the bout of our lives.
That is why, before we proceed...
I want to bequeath this upon you.

jane

Eh?

(Jane starts.)

WHOA!! What is this?! There's, like...
A hundred... No, a thousand... N-No, more still!
How much gold is in this bag, Mistress...?

delilah

Enough to set you for life. It is everything I have on hand.
Thrice more is hidden back in Flintshire Keep.
Look for a small note at the bottom of the bag.
Therein lie instructions for you to reach the rest...

jane

Er... But why, Mistress?

delilah

(smiles) Hehehe... Only the most appropriately wretched of fates await me next.
Death on the inquisition's steel, or a damp cell for the rest of my days.
I would sooner hand over the fruits of my labor than see them taken away.
Thus, I give them to you, the woman who has so eagerly followed me.

jane

...I can't accept this, Mistress.

delilah

(frowns) Come now. I would be disgusted to see my wealth in any other's hands.
I do this for my own sake. Spare me the revolting humility, would you?

jane

No, I'm serious. I can't accept it. It's yours, and you'll need it.
Because... What makes you so sure that you don't have a way out?

delilah

Please! Once this ends, Barlowe will see that my tenure as margravine is finished.

jane

...There'll be plenty of opportunity to vanish in the midst of this...

delilah

What are you implying, Jane?

jane

Let's leave it all behind. Let's run together, Mistress.

delilah

......

(grins) Ahahahahahahaha! Oh, you're so hopeless, Jane, honey...
What could your end goal possibly be with this utterly foolish proposal?
Do you imagine you can “fix” me? Conquer the wicked witch?

jane

N-Not at all. I think I like the wicked witch just the way she is.
Yeah, go ahead. Laugh it up. I'm done pretending otherwise.

delilah

......
(smiles) That's just as well.
Fleeing from the grasp of the righteous and the entrappings of nobility alike...
In order to retire to a life of debauchery with my devoted, gorgeous partner.
Yes... Dare I say, it may be a dream come true! Hahahahaha!

(Jane starts.)

jane

Then, that means...!

delilah

(grinning) Yes, Jane. You played a wild gambit, and I find myself soundly defeated.
Take my hand in yours, and bring me to the dream life you envision for us.
Be ready! Our moment will come soon...

jane

(smiles) ...I was born ready, Mistress.

[Jane & Delilah's support increases to rank A.]

If Delilah is dead

jane

......

kyra

Jane, you holding up all right?

jane

...N-Not really.
Not that I'd expect you to ever understand.
Heck, I don't understand it myself...

kyra

Understand what?

jane

I miss her, Kyra. I miss Delilah...

(Kyra balks.)

kyra

What?! You can't be serious!

jane

......

kyra

Holy Mother. You are serious.

jane

I loved her. I'm sorry I loved her, okay?!
I get it! It's a crime! A travesty! Whatever you wanna call it!
Judge me in silence and leave me alone, would you?

kyra

No, I'm just... taken aback a bit, but...
I can't judge someone grieving.
Even if they're grieving someone like--

(Jane becomes agitated.)

jane

And there you go again!
Grieving someone like what?! Go on, out with it!
Spit it out so I can sock you in the mouth!

kyra

Whoa, whoa! Take it easy!

jane

......
Just leave me be... Please...
I'm not going anywhere. I'll help you to take the tower.
But until then, please. I really, really do not need this.

kyra

You're probably right... I'm really sorry, Jane...
I'll be off now.

jane

Good...

If Jane is dead

delilah

......
What are you looking at?

kyra

You, I guess.
Aren't you going to try to run off now?

delilah

(smiles) And miss the most fun part? Come now.

kyra

Hmph... Well, think of it any way you like.
I'm keeping my eye on you.

delilah

(serious) There's really no need. I'm not going anywhere.
I will cut down the ones that remain, and if by the end I still draw breath, you may go ahead and clap me in irons.

kyra

How oddly... compliant of you, Delilah.

delilah

Interrogate me as long as you like.
You won't catch a whiff of a daring escape plan from me.
I hate you, I hate the Tartaran inquisition and I hate everyone.
I spit on this filthy world. What do I care what it does to me?

kyra

......
I... Delilah, is this... grief, I detect in you?
You're grieving Jane, aren't you?
Losing her has been tough on you...

(Delilah becomes agitated.)

delilah

Yes, curse it all! Yes! That's exactly it!
I've cried, you know? I've shed tears for her.
Have you any idea how many times I've cried in my life?
Thrice! Thrice in my whole life! I was seven years old the first time!
And both the other times were for her... Argh, it's unbelievably infuriating!

kyra

......
I can't believe I'm about to say this, but...
I'm sorry, Delilah.

delilah

Take your apologies and get out of my sight.
All I want is to let off some steam on the inquisitors.
You can throw me off the tower afterwards for all I care.

kyra

......

Fiadh

fiadh

So much has happened since the day you strolled into Wrexham.
Back then, my first assumption was that you were bad news...
But then, that's the first thing I assume of everybody.

kyra

And now? What do you think now?

fiadh

I think I wouldn't have minded to call you my liege, in another life.
You are every bit the paragon of goodness the margrave is.
You garnered his approval, and even more impressive, mine.

kyra

You exaggerate. All I've done is try my best and figure things out as I go...

fiadh

And what do you think anyone else does?
Heck, do you think Sandraudiga had this whole thing planned out from the start?
Of course not. She figured it out as she went, the same as you.
(narrows eyes) ...Only in her case, it's just gonna get her pointy implements in very painful spots...

kyra

(smiles) Heh... I'm going to miss having that glare on my side.

fiadh

(smiles) And I'm gonna miss being able to count on your impressive skills.
Please, when we part ways, don't be a stranger, would you?
We would all be delighted if you came by and paid us the odd visit.

kyra

I'll try. At some point we've got to have a competition.
I'd love to pit my abilities against yours.

fiadh

Oh, you've no idea what you've just gotten yourself into.
I'm going to hold you to that.

Beatrix

beatrix

The grand finale approaches.
Are you ready, Commander? This will be a toughie...

kyra

I'm as ready as I'll ever be. And you?

beatrix

(smiles) Me? I'm quaking in my boots.
I don't know if it's fear or excitement, though.
I had never dreamed I'd be a part of something like this.
Or, if I was... I would've thought I'd be on the other side.

kyra

Really? I mean, sure, you can be a bit shady at times, but...
You've always struck me as the “righteous rogue” type.

beatrix

(frowns) Oh, you have no idea.
The things I've gotten up to in my time...
This may sound rather cliché, Commander,
but I have a lot of regrets.

kyra

But you're clearly comfortable where you are now.

beatrix

(smiles) Oh, absolutely.
I enjoy serving the margrave. He is a good man.
And you, too. You're a good woman yourself.
Fighting with you, it almost makes me feel that, in the end, perhaps...
I may be someone that matters.

kyra

You matter to a lot of people, Beatrix.
For their sake, and mine, don't do anything reckless.

beatrix

(still smiling) Yes, you may have the right of it.
Tch... I'll have to find a new catchphrase. How annoying.

Órlaith

......

kyra

Hey, Órlaith... Are you ready?

Órlaith

Yeah, sure.
This one won't be easy. I hope you've steeled yourself.

kyra

As well as I could, Órlaith.

Órlaith

......
I'm sorry. I don't know what to say. All of this is a bit beyond me...
Before, the most danger I'd faced was a pack of particularly ferocious brigands.
It's all I can do just to keep up with everyone else in this whirlwind...

kyra

Is that so? You seem as composed as always.

Órlaith

Well... It's the truth. I'm not like the rest of you. I'm just... me.
The only thing I know for sure is that I believe in you, Commander.
So if you think I can be of some assistance, don't hesitate to tell me.

kyra

Thanks, Órlaith. Will do.

Xinyi & Jingyi

If Xinyi & Jingyi are alive

(Jingyi is reading and concentrating deeply.)

xinyi

(smiles) Ah, Commander Kyra. Right on time.

kyra

Am I? It looks more to me like I'm interrupting Jingyi's reading...
What's that book, anyway?

xinyi

Shh. Let him concentrate.

kyra

Er...

jingyi

(opens eyes) ...Thank.

kyra

...?

xinyi

You, Jingyi.
Thank you.

(Jingyi fidgets self-consciously.)

jingyi

Oh! Uh... Er... Ahem!
(smiles) Thank you.

kyra

(smiles) Ohhh, I see what this is!
Thank you too, Jingyi. Uh...
(serious) Xinyi, how do I say “thank you” in Zhulite?

xinyi

(Thank you.) That is (thank) and (you.)
Go on, give it a try. It's not that hard.

kyra

Uhmmm... Hey, Jingyi!
(Tanks yew.)

jingyi

(grinning) Bwah hah hah hah hah hah!

kyra

I botched it, didn't I.

xinyi

Completely, but the meaning got across.

jingyi

Hah hah hah... Ummh... Hmmm...

(Jingyi searches through his dictionary.)

(Ah, here it is... Er...)
(smiles) I welcome!
(frowns) Ermm... You? I welcome you?
(Xinyi, help! I don't think that's right!)

xinyi

Haha... Good to see neither of you will be making my job redundant any time soon.

kyra

...Just tell him he's been an excellent ally, would you?
You too, of course. I don't know what would've happened without you...

jingyi

(Xinyi! What did she just say?)
(Hold on, first, would you tell her something for me?)
(Tell her she's been a great ally.)
(Who knows where we'd be without her and her friends?)
(Tell her that, please.)

xinyi

(frowns) ...Oh, goodness gracious... (One at a time, please!)

If Xinyi is dead

jingyi

......

kyra

Well, this is... awkward...

jingyi

(reading) ......

kyra

What are you reading there?
Looks like... Oh, it's a dictionary.

jingyi

......
Um... Ahem...
I... blame... I blame you.

(Kyra starts.)

kyra

Wha...?!
Oh... It's about Xinyi, isn't it...
You're right to blame me. It's my fault she died...

(Jingyi fidgets.)

jingyi

Ah! (No, I don't think I said the right thing...)
(I meant to say, I don't blame you!)
(I don't blame you, Commander! Please!)

kyra

Ohh, I feel so useless... I can't understand a single word...

jingyi

...Uhh... Er... Aha!
Pardon.

kyra

...Pardon?
Ah, you want me to let you go, right? Is that it?
I completely understand. This isn't even your fight.
And now it's taken your comrade's life...
I have no right to keep you here.
You can go! Understand? Go... Go! You can go!

jingyi

......
(Ahh, dammit! I feel so utterly moronic!)
(She always told me I should learn Tartaran...)
(And I'd just scoff and say, “Why? I've got you!”)
(closes eyes) (What an idiot I am... I'm so sorry, Xinyi...)

kyra

Er... Do you want to go, then, or...?
Go on. I'm not going to stop you.

jingyi

Baah!
(What did she just say... Could this be it?)
(All right, let's try this...)

No thank you.

kyra

Huh?

jingyi

No... thank you.
I, er... I no blame you?

kyra

......
Thanks, Jingyi... I'm... glad you feel that way.

jingyi

(Let's finish this. For Xinyi!)

kyra

......
Yeah...

If Jingyi is dead

xinyi

......

kyra

Er... Something wrong...?

xinyi

Nothing at all...
Pardon me. I know my rage is misdirected at you.
And yet, I cannot help it. I am disappointed in you.
Jingyi died fighting a battle that was not his own.
I have to blame you and your shoddy leadership.

kyra

......

xinyi

(closes eyes) Sigh...
(opens eyes) I'll keep fighting. I know he would've done it in my shoes.
Then I'll take my leave, and I'll thank you not to seek me out.

kyra

Don't worry, Xinyi. I... understand completely.

xinyi

Mm.
...Perhaps one day, when my fury has given way to sorrow.
Perhaps then, I'll be the one to find you, so I may apologize.
After all... These things just happen in war.
I am being deeply unfair. I know that, but...

kyra

Please, stop it. There's no need to...
Look, I'll leave you alone now, okay?
Call me whatever names you want in your mind, if it helps.
I've earned them, to be sure.

(Kyra leaves.)

xinyi

......
No, you haven't, Commander.
It's just easier to hate you than it is to hate myself...

Fazang

fazang

Tell me, Commander Kyra.
What do you intend on doing after the battle ends?

kyra

Hmm? I... haven't really thought about it.
I don't even know where my brother is...
I hope they weren't cruel enough to just... throw him away.
I guess first I'll have to find him, and then...

fazang

You understand, of course, that chaos will engulf this country.
Neighboring nations will take great interest in this turmoil, as it will leave Tartaros's bountiful lands in a precarious position.

kyra

What are you trying to tell me, Fazang?

fazang

Well, it is not my place to force you to do anything.
But you must ponder on what role you'd prefer to play in the coming days.

kyra

...I don't know... I'm so tired, Fazang.
I don't know if I can spend much longer being Tartaros's sword and shield.
That's not what I wanted. I didn't want any of this...

fazang

It was foolish of me to bring it up. Pardon me, Commander Kyra...
I merely worry. Your deeds will grant you great notoriety.
The kind that may lead those with ulterior motives to mark you as dangerous.
...Those such as the Kingdom of Zhu.

kyra

I see... A warning. I'll keep it in mind.

fazang

Naturally, my concerns may simply prove to be entirely unfounded.
Please, don't let my impertinent remarks cloud your vision...

kyra

No, no. Someone's got to worry. Thanks for that.

fazang

For what it's worth, Kyra, I do not worry lightly.
If I do, it is because I respect you greatly.
(smiles) Should Zhu strike, know that you have friends there as well.

kyra

Thanks... I won't forget you, Fazang.

Jason

jason

(smiling) Hey, remember when you hired me and I refused a monthly salary?
Said I considered you more of an investment and everything?

kyra

Something along those lines, yeah. Why?

jason

(frowns) I regret it.
Joined you with the assumption that we'd just get to Amnisos, get word that the hierophant croaked and then go our merry ways.
Instead I've found myself part of a history-defining adventure.
This whole shindig is WAY above my paygrade.

kyra

Just come out with it, Jason. What do you want?
You want to leave?

jason

(smiles) Naw. Don't think there'd be many opportunities for profit, if we let Sandraudiga turn the world into her oyster.
Better stop her and figure out an angle later.

kyra

We can discuss extra payment when the time comes.
There. Are you feeling extra motivated to fight now?

jason

Quite. You won't find another quite so invested in the cause as me.

kyra

Somehow I doubt that.

jason

Well, okay, maybe that's going a bit far, but seriously!
I may be a bit of a vulture, but I've got a heart in there somewhere.
I'm elated to lend my arms to the right side of this little kerfuffle.
Commander Kyra... Give me a holler when it's time to set out, eh?

Plato

plato

(smiling) Ayyyyy, it's the woman of the hour!
The heroine of this story! The champion of good versus evil!
Who could witness her and not fall agape in awe of her?!

kyra

You're still here.

plato

Of course! I've got to look out for my bro's pals, don't I?
That big meanie Sandraudiga won't even know what hit her!
She will know why they call me the Blood Demon!

kyra

Who even calls you that?
Redbeard... Edward, that is, used to be a mercenary guildmaster, you know.
I've heard him talk about a Verdant Flash, a couple Angels of Death...
Even some weirder stuff like Golden Boar. Blood Demon, though? Never.

plato

Aww, well, my bro always used to call me Blood Demon.
That's what I call myself, too! Catchy work name, wouldn't you say?
It's a wonder I'm not constantly drowning in job requests!
Must be my unassuming, quiet demeanor.
I don't stand out enough. Oh well, them's the breaks!

kyra

...I, uh... I'm glad to have you onboard?

plato

Don't mention it, please! Happy to be here!
Now c'mon, who's gonna be the first to challenge us?!
Bring it on, thugs! Face the Blood Demon!

(Plato charges off excitedly.)

kyra

......
We haven't even left camp yet, dumbass.

Zaccheus

zaccheus

Hmph... Commander! Commander, hear me!
I have a question of the utmost importance!
...Commander! Have you become deaf?!

kyra

I'm taking great pains to ignore your existence.
I'd appreciate if you respected my efforts.

zaccheus

(smiles mockingly) Ahh, you once more grace me with your absolutely delightful charm!
Truly, I would be so smitten by you, were I a masochist.
(scowls) Save the bile. There's just one thing I want to know.

kyra

Spit it out already.

zaccheus

Will I or will I not be allowed to regain my station after this concludes?

kyra

That's not up to me.
Margrave Barlowe will decide if he wants to levy a complaint against you.
I'm in no position to meddle in Glamorgan's affairs.

(Zaccheus becomes agitated.)

zaccheus

Oh, that's all well and good now, isn't it?!
But when you were meddling in MY affairs, oh, THEN it was perfectly sound!

kyra

Ohh, in the name of... What do you want from me, Zaccheus?

zaccheus

Intercede on my behalf, dammit all!
I have faithfully helped - dare I even say, served - the whole way through!
Surely I have earned some reprieve, have I not? Come now!
Have some gratitude for once in your life, pauper...

kyra

Oh, I get it.
You're afraid you're going to face consequences for your actions, so you want me to bail you out, is that it?

zaccheus

Pah...

kyra

...We'll see. But right now, you focus on the battle ahead.
Your titles won't be of any use to you if you're dead.

zaccheus

(smiles) Psch. As if you need remind me.
Have I not proven to be a mage of most tremendous power?
Just leave it all to me. I will lay your enemies low for you.
You just take care to remember my services come the end.

kyra

Sigh... I guess I can promise that much, at least...

zaccheus

Fabulous. In that case, give me time to prepare.
Let us bring this tepid incident to a close, Commander Kyra.

(Zaccheus leaves.)

kyra

Slimy snake... Ptooey.

Simeon

simeon

Commander, a word, if you please.
...Confound it-- Commander!

kyra

I'm taking great pains to ignore your existence.
I'd appreciate if you respected my efforts.

simeon

(smirks mockingly) Hah! Oh, believe me, I am as pleased to be here as you are to have me.
(serious) Let us be civil, shall we? I only wish to ask a question.

kyra

Spit it out already.

simeon

What will become of myself and my titles, come the end of this journey?

kyra

That's not up to me.
Margrave Barlowe will decide if he wants to levy a complaint against you.
I'm in no position to meddle in Glamorgan's affairs.

(Simeon becomes agitated.)

simeon

How disgracefully hypocritical of you, Commander!
You meddled plenty in MY affairs, you snake!

kyra

Ohh, in the name of... What do you want from me, Simeon?

simeon

Take a guess, whelp!
I have granted you favor after favor, fighting a battle that wasn't mine!
And yet I may be PUNISHED for my sacrifices by the end? Nay, I say!
If you knew the meaning of the word “gratitude,” you would assist me!

kyra

Oh, I get it.
You're afraid you're going to face consequences for your actions, so you want me to bail you out, is that it?

simeon

Grrr...

kyra

...We'll see. But right now, you focus on the battle ahead.
Your titles won't be of any use to you if you're dead.

simeon

(smiles) Heh... A needless remark.
My mettle has been more than sufficiently demonstrated.
You may rely on me to see your foes buried at once.
Simply remember, when all is well, who helped to make it possible.

kyra

Sigh... I guess I can promise that much, at least...

simeon

Exquisite. Now, I should only need a bit of time to make ready.
Soon we shall bring this regrettable ruction to an end, Commander.

(Simeon leaves.)

kyra

Snivelling rat... Ptooey.

Telemus

telemus

Commander...

kyra

Ah, hello... Uh...

telemus

Does it still pain you to look upon me?

kyra

A little, I won't lie...
You just remind me so much of him.
Maybe it'd help if you'd shave the mustache.

telemus

A-Ah, well, certainly if I must...

kyra

That was a joke.

(Telemus laughs in surprise.)

telemus

(smiles) Oh! Haha... Ah, quite, er... risible, Commander.

kyra

You remind me of him, yeah, but...
It's like looking at a version of him that's not a filthy liar.
Brings back good memories, not bad ones.

telemus

Have strength, Commander.
Harrowing trials await us in the Tower of Creation...
But the dark gloom will give way to a bright new day.

kyra

That's what I'm hoping for, at the very least.
Thanks for all you've been doing, Telemus.
I'm glad we spared you, way back when.

telemus

'Tis only the least I could do, given what I owe you.
Moreover, I look forward to the Tartaros that will come of this.
It would be my pleasure to be able to wear this crest with pride once more.

kyra

You can wear anything you like proudly. You're not like them.

telemus

(smiles) Thank you, Commander. I appreciate hearing those words.

Nicaea

nicaea

It's almost over, Commander.

kyra

So it is.

nicaea

......

kyra

......
This is where your revenge quest ends.
You take one more life after this, and I'm coming for you myself.
Is that clear, Nicaea?

nicaea

Crystal.

kyra

All right. Just wanted to make sure.

nicaea

I never wanted to be this way.

kyra

You regret what you did?

nicaea

I'm... not sure.
I have no doubt Aura would have died fighting loyally for the enemy, had I not cut her life short myself.
Things would have likely ended up the same way regardless.
The same goes for Cybele. Nothing I said would have swayed her.
And yet... Seeing them dead did not bring me the solace I had hoped for.
On the contrary. The more time that passes...
The more pointless it seems, and the more alone I feel.

kyra

Uh huh...

nicaea

Don't worry about me. I'm not worth it.
I made my choices and I'll have to live with them.
For now, let me help you finish this.
I'll figure things out after, if I'm still alive by then.

kyra

Don't you go trying to get yourself killed.
That's not the solution either.

nicaea

...Perhaps not. Thank you, Commander.

Ziying

kyra

Ziying. Got a moment?

ziying

......

kyra

We haven't known each other long, but...
I know there's a good guy there, hiding under the cloak.
I just wanted you to know, we're not holding your past against you.
Once the battle is done - and before, if you want - you can go.
Live your life as best you can. No one's going to stop you.

ziying

......

kyra

You're... not leaving, are you?

ziying

......

kyra

Is there anything in particular you'd like to do afterwards?
Any job you'd like to try? Somewhere you'd like to go?

ziying

......

(Ziying hands Kyra something.)

kyra

What's this?
Oh, what a cute drawing. Not yours, I take it?
This blue blotch is... It's you, right?

ziying

......

kyra

Oh, I see. It's from that girl from before...
You'd like to go back there, is that it?

ziying

......

kyra

Well... Whatever it is, if there's anything we can do to help...
Just give me a nod, all right?

ziying

(closes eyes) ......

Coronis

coronis

......

kyra

Coronis? You look down...

coronis

I never met your brother, Commander.
But for a child to die so young...
It is always a cause for sorrow.
You have my sincerest condolences.

kyra

Ah... W-Well, thank you.

coronis

......

kyra

Hey, Coronis...
I know it may not be the best time, but...
Do you have a riddle for me? I could use a distraction.

coronis

If you feel up for it... Yes, I got plenty.
Let me think... I believe that one shall do.

The tides turn. The moon falls, and the sun rises.
We march, undaunted, ever onwards,
as the gods above behold with abated anticipation.
What is it that I describe?

options

Time!

Us!

Battle!

Life!

Death!

Er... Fate?

If you answer correctly (fate)

coronis

Very good, Commander. Please, help yourself. I insist.
Though these silly little enigmas of mine are hardly on your level.

(Coronis gives Kyra 1500 gold.)

If you answer incorrectly

coronis

Hmm... Ah, well. That one was a little more difficult than usual.
And these silly little enigmas of mine are hardly worthy your time and effort.

coronis

You are not a child. You are the one who will change the course of history...

kyra

Still, I appreciate them. They're... I don't know. Neat?
I hope you'll go back to teaching when this is all over.
Kids need more adults like you to guide them.

coronis

(smiles) Thank you... It means more than you know, to hear you say that.

kyra

Mm... Well, I'll get going.
Steel yourself for the fight ahead. It won't be long now.

coronis

(serious) ......
Commander, I understand this is a topic you'd rather avoid.
I have heard rumors of one who betrayed your trust...

kyra

...It's okay. You can bring it up. We're soon going to face him.
It's not like I can just forget he exists. Not yet, at least.

coronis

I only have one question.
...What was his name, Commander?

kyra

Huh? Soter. Why?

coronis

......

kyra

Coronis...?

coronis

I will not distract you any longer, Commander.
Thank you for indulging my curiosity.

kyra

......
Okay, Coronis.

(Kyra leaves.)

coronis

......

Glaucus

glaucus

Darn, Commander. Look what you've done.
If you'd told me when we met back in the forest,
that you'd be turning Tartaros upside down by the end of it...
(smiles) Meh. I probably would still have joined up. Can't say I regret it.

kyra

What, you aren't going to request that I let you leave again?

glaucus

(frowns) ...I-I'm going to hope you're fooling around, Commander.

kyra

Of course I am. At this point, I have no doubts about you.
You're kind of a scoundrel, and you could really stand to shave.
But... You're a good guy, Glaucus. I'm glad we met.

glaucus

Hearing you say that means a lot, Commander.
But it's not like I'm with you solely out of the goodness of my heart.
We owe you, Commander. We owe you big time.

kyra

“We?”

glaucus

Me and my pops, we've got enough debts as it is.
If I can help to settle some of them, that's my pleasure.
(eyes droop) Especially when... it is the greatest debt of them all...

kyra

......
You know, Glaucus... You owe me nothing.
And... neither does your father.

glaucus

C'mon, you don't need to say that just to--

kyra

I mean it.
Fight for the same thing that the rest of us are.
To make Tartaros a better place.
Don't feel like you have any obligation to me,
because you do not. Got it?

glaucus

......
(smiles) You truly have a heart of gold, Commander.
I hope to see you come out of this with your life.

kyra

Same to you, Glaucus.

Pheme

kyra

Pheme... How are you holding up?

pheme

......
I guess we've both lost our brothers now, huh.

kyra

What...?

pheme

Sorry. That was the wrong thing to say.
You'd think I'd know what to say, given I've been through this too, but...

kyra

It's not like I was any better when the roles were reversed.
(smiles) Heh. Two tactless huntresses from the same village.
Foolish, in over their heads and down a brother...
A little higher and we would've even had matching scars.

pheme

(smiles) It almost feels like a joke of some kind.
(serious) I wouldn't say you're in over your head, though.
You're the one making all of this possible.
I'm the one struggling to keep up in all of this...

kyra

What did you expect? They don't let people your age in the army.
None of this should've happened to you... It's just not fair.

pheme

Do you still feel guilty?

kyra

......

pheme

I really don't think I should need to say this.
But, if it helps... I forgive you, Kyra.
Of course I do. You're my best friend.

kyra

......
(smiles) ...That does help a lot. Thanks...

pheme

Let's be there for each other for what comes next, okay?

kyra

Sounds good to me.

[Kyra & Pheme's support increases to rank B.]

Demeter

demeter

(smiling) It has been so nice being a part of your group, Kyra.
You have so many cool people on your side.
I feel like I can hardly keep up with everyone!

kyra

...U-Uhh... That's great, Demeter, but...
D-Don't move. You have a giant spider on your head.
Venomous, I think... Be very still, and I'll--

demeter

Oh, yeah! Isn't she a cutie? She's my friend!
Look, look! Look how she skitters around my hand!

(Kyra shakes.)

kyra

N-No--! Don't touch that thing...!

demeter

Look! I think she likes you, too!
See how she's looking at you? Awww....

kyra

......
It really isn't attacking you at all. What kind of sorcery did you...?

demeter

I get your reservations.
These little guys don't usually trust humans.
But I'm here, so don't worry. I've asked her to be nice.

kyra

R-Right... Well, leaving that aside...

demeter

(frowns) Listen, I hate to bring up this sad topic, but...
I feel terrible about what happened to Elias.

kyra

Huh? I appreciate that, Demeter, but you never did meet him...
You don't need to say that just for my sake.

demeter

No, I mean it... I'm so bad at this.
There's so much that's wrong... I've made a lot of mistakes.
People like Dolus or Sandraudiga, and tragedies like Elias or the little Dolus...
Luckily, there's wonderful people like you, ready to correct them.
I'm just so sorry that you've had to suffer so much for it...

kyra

......
Are you ever going to tell me who in the world you are, Demeter?

demeter

(smiles) But you already know! You just said it!
I'm Demeter!

kyra

......

demeter

(grins cheerfully) ......

kyra

Well. You confuse the heck out of me, but still.
You really shouldn't put yourself down.
You're strong, kind, brave and really pleasant to be around.
It's like all my worries fade away when I'm with you...

demeter

You really feel that way?! Yay! That's so awesome!

kyra

(smiles) I've got to keep going now, but...
Yeah, I hope we can be friends after this is all over.

demeter

I'd love that too! You're one of my favorites, Kyra.

(Kyra leaves.)

demeter

In fact... One last little gift, to help you finish this.

[All of Kyra's stats increase by 1.]

Laertes

laertes

(smiling) Commander, I will not dance around the issue this time.
No lies, no pretenses. Even I can grasp the gravity of the situation.
Give me 10,000 gold, and I will fight my hardest for you to the end.

kyra

Scruples, Laertes. Ever heard of them?

laertes

I cannot say that I have.
But tell me and tell me in truth! Are my feelings really so wrong?
To find comfort in the weight of a bag full of riches in my hands?
To enjoy the melancholic symphony of coins clattering in my pocket?
To find inspiration in wealth? Enrichment in affluence?!

kyra

...Yes?

laertes

(still smiling) Okay. My apologies. I had to try one last time.
So! About that 10,000 gold. Will you pay up?
Not that I'll defect if you refuse, mind.
I may be an utterly shameless scoundrel,
but I am not dumb. So how about it?

kyra

...I guess I...

If you agree

kyra

Fine, you despicable leech. Here's your stinking gold.

(Laertes jumps for joy.)

laertes

(smiles) Ahhh, how it fills me with joy to know you are so reasonable!

kyra

I'm a damn fool, that's what I am.
I should take that bag of coins and shove it up your--

laertes

Okay! Okay, okay, let's not ruin all the goodwill we've got going.
Believe me, my dear commander. I shall be your most dedicated man.
Order I take on Sandraudiga in singular combat, and so I shall!
You know what I'm capable of. After all...
That's why you have chosen to invest in me, is it not?

kyra

You do have some talent, much as I hate to hand it to you.

laertes

Excellent, excellent.
I would rather we finished our working partnership amicably.
Let us leave it at that, hmm?

kyra

......

[All of Laertes' stats increase by 2.]

If you refuse

kyra

Don't push your luck, Laertes.

laertes

(frowns) Tch. Too bad, but I didn't have much faith in my chances.
No matter. I still would rather not rattle the hornet's nest.
Dispirited and unmotivated as I find myself, I will continue to do as much as I can for the cause.

kyra

Oh, is that right?

laertes

(smiles) Sincerely. I would rather we finished our working partnership amicably.
So let us leave it at that, hmm?

kyra

......

Vasiliki

vasiliki

(smiling) Wow, Commander! Things are getting so hectic now!
W-We just took down the ruling powers of Tartaros...
And now we're going to destroy what little remains!
We're turning everything upside down!

kyra

Thanks for all the help, Vasiliki.
I don't know how much that merchant paid you, but...
If you need any more money for your parents, just ask and I'll see what I can muster.

vasiliki

Aww, thank you kindly, but you don't need to do that.
I've gotten so much better at this merc thing.
When this is over, I'm gonna get all the contracts!
All of 'em! I'll drown in gold and my parents will be just peachy!

kyra

(smiles) Heh, that's the spirit, I guess.

vasiliki

It's all thanks to you, Commander. You gave me a chance.
Who knows where I'd be if you hadn't taken me along...
I know you didn't really have a reason to bring me along.
And I know I haven't done much to really help, but...
From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much!

kyra

I haven't regretted my choice for a moment.
Keep up the good work, Vasiliki. You're gonna be fine.

(Vasiliki salutes.)

vasiliki

Yes, chief!
And now... One more time, for old times' sake!
Managed to get one more ready just earlier.
Cheers!

(Vasiliki gives Kyra a Vulnerary.)

Scymerius

scymerius

......

kyra

You intend on keeping that helmet on your head until the very end, eh?
We won't get any last minute changes of heart or cute moments from you.

scymerius

Sorry, Commander.
It's really for the best you know as little about me as possible.
I would hate to have to try to stab you in the back after this...

kyra

Especially because you'd lose.

scymerius

I won't deny that. I know my limits.

kyra

I'll say, to everyone's surprise, you have proven trustworthy.
Well, not exactly, but I guess... Not untrustworthy?

scymerius

I get what you mean, and I'm glad you feel that way.
Believe it or not, I'm happy about the way things turned out.
I may not exactly be a paragon of virtue, but it does feel nice to work a job without baggage.
This is one thing I'll be able to look back on with a smile.

kyra

Cool.
Well, I don't know what your deal is, and clearly I never will.
So I just hope, for your sake, that I never catch wind of anything...
nefarious, having to do with you.

scymerius

I'll be sure to give you no reason to place me in your sights.
It's one fight that might actually get my hand to tremble.

kyra

Out of fear?

scymerius

...And just a twinge of regret, maybe.
But don't worry. I'm smarter than that.
I should never find myself facing you in combat.

kyra

Not the most reassuring phrasing you could have chosen, but...
I guess it'll have to do.

scymerius

That it will, Commander. That it will.

Fructuoso

fructuoso

M-Man, I can't believe I'm still kicking after all this...
What a mess you've gotten us into, Commander.

kyra

Sorry. If it helps you feel better, I didn't expect all this either.
For me, it all started saving some woman in danger, one night...
Barely a few months ago, that was, but it feels like another life.

fructuoso

Sorry for complaining.
(smiles) To tell you the truth, I don't regret coming along at all.
It's helping me to come to terms with myself.
Whenever my regrets start to sting now, I can tell myself, “but now you're a hero, Fructuoso!”

kyra

If there's one thing I've learned in this adventure, it's that you can find good in the most unlikely places.
You should be proud of yourself, Fructuoso.

fructuoso

Even I, huh...
Heh. You're very kind, Commander.
Hope everything goes well for you,
whatever you do next.

kyra

Same to you.
What are your future plans, anyway?

fructuoso

Me? Probably continue working as a sellsword.
Or sellaxe, I guess. Seems I'm decent at it.
Though I probably ought to buy some real armor...
I can actually afford that now. Can you believe it?

kyra

(smirks) Pfft... Yeah, that'd probably be for the best, honestly.

fructuoso

Hahaha, yeah...
Seek me out if you ever need help with anything.
I'll lend you a hand, free of charge.

kyra

That's quite generous of you. I'll take care not to forget it.

Edward & Barlowe

barlowe

Kyra... I have not had the chance to say this, and I may not get it again, so let me just do it now.
My sincerest condolences for what befell your brother...

kyra

Margrave...

barlowe

I had the honor of meeting young Elias only once.
The same day you arrived at my doorstep, saviors of our lives.
After we spoke, I walked by my bedroom and I heard noises.
There I found him, snuggling in my sheets with a smile on his face.

edward

(smiles) Yeah, I remember he told me about it later...
Think he confused you for a servant. Hah!

barlowe

(smiles) That he did, and I did nothing to clear up the misunderstanding.
(frowns) ...On his gaunt face, I gleaned devastating poverty and hardship.
I saw many devils that I would see eradicated, if I could.
But I also saw great strength, not unlike yours, Kyra.

edward

Elias was the strongest little lad I've ever met.
That hyena had her paws around his neck, and still all he was worried about was my safety...
(closes eyes) ...I'm gonna miss him so much...

kyra

Yeah...

barlowe

Forgive me. I did not wish to bring you sadness.

kyra

The sadness is there to stay. We'll just have to live with it.

edward

Mmhmm... But that ain't your fault, Barlowe.

kyra

You're a great ally to have, and a greater friend even.
I'm still counting my lucky stars we've got you on our side.

barlowe

(smiles) Please, I have hardly done anything...
It is all you, Kyra, and the friends and allies you've picked up along the way.
I am only a small part of the behemoth that together we compose.

kyra

Still, a part I'm beyond grateful to have.

barlowe

...Thank you, Kyra. You don't know how much it means to hear that.

kyra

I better get going.
Get some rest while you still can, you two.

(Kyra leaves.)

barlowe

...You're truly fortunate, Edward. I'll admit, it makes me a tad jealous.

If Fiadh is alive

edward

If you mean what I think you do... You shouldn't be.
After all... You've got someone a bit like that yourself, right?

barlowe

......
(smiles) Yes... I suppose we are both lucky in that way.

If Fiadh is dead

edward

Aye... I guess I am, despite everything.

barlowe

......

Tiresias Staff Upgrades

Rank D

tiresias

Lady Apate visited earlier.
She said I am ready to hold a proper healing staff...
(smiles) This is so exciting. Ancient technology, in my very own hands...
With this, I hope to be of even more use to you.

(Tiresias' Makeshift Rod is replaced with a Heal staff.)

Rank C

tiresias

Lady Apate gave me a more powerful staff earlier.
She says this is as good as it's going to get.
...I suspect that is not true, but I shan't push the issue.
Not for now, at least. She has done so much for me...
(smiles) Besides, this will be more than enough to help out.
But, who knows. Perhaps in time, if I keep improving...
Well, there's only one way to find out - keeping at it!

(Tiresias' Heal staff is replaced with a Mend staff.)

Promotion to Bishop

tiresias

(smiles) ...Come now. Confess, my dear Wulfric.
Do I not look positively dashing when I put this little hat on?

wulfric

(smiling) It suits you perfectly, Tiresias.
You have become the spitting image of the healers of old.
At least, going by the depictions in the tomes you have shown me.

tiresias

You would know best. You had the hat made based on them, after all.

wulfric

(serious) ...And yet...

tiresias

Hmm? Something the matter?

wulfric

You have chosen to assist your friends, despite the risks.
This I accept. But these robes of yours, they are so very fragile...
Any blade could pierce them with ease. And then...

tiresias

Wulfric, I'm not wearing that cumbersome suit of armor.
You can stop asking. Stop dragging it around, too.

wulfric

......
Have you any idea how my heart aches, each time you take to the field?
And yet I endure it, for you deserve to be allowed to follow your own heart.
But try as I might, I cannot help but annoy you with my concerns...

tiresias

I know that, come what may, you would protect me.

wulfric

I would duel Death itself to keep you from its cold, final grasp.
I am only afraid... that I would lose.

tiresias

...W-Wulfric...
(smiles) A-Aw, heck... Why must you always do this to me?

wulfric

(smiles) I will not apologize for loving you. Only for not loving you enough.
You will have to find it in your heart to forgive me for my nagging worries.

tiresias

Bah... I-I'm still not going to wear the armor, but... Good attempt.

(Apate steps in.)

apate

...Ahem... If I may interrupt.

wulfric

Lady Apate...

apate

I will not be long.
I have one more tool to entrust to you.

tiresias

(smiles) Oho! I knew it. It does get better!

(Apate approaches Tiresias and gives him a Rescue staff.)

apate

I have picked this staff, among those which I still possess.
It is the one that I believe will best suit you,
as one who has chosen the path of the savior.

tiresias

Huh... What does it look like, Wulfric?

wulfric

The adornments are breathtaking. I have never seen anything like it...

apate

With this staff, you can bring the needy to your side in the blink of an eye.
Never again shall an ally be too distant to receive your aid.
It is a great power, yet limited. Use it wisely.

tiresias

Wow... Lady Apate, I do not know what to say.

apate

I require no words. I trust in your judgment.

wulfric

(smiles) Heh... My goodness, Tiresias.
Is there anybody in the world that you could not charm?

tiresias

(smiles) Don't praise me too much, you two, or it'll go to my head!
Ahahaha... Thank you kindly, Lady Apate. For everything.

apate

All right... Do not let me keep you, then.

wulfric

(smiling) Well, Tiresias, if you wish to try out your mentor's latest gift...

tiresias

Ah, that's my favorite test subject! Come now, without delay...

(Wulfric and Tiresias leave.)

apate

......
I... I only wish you every happiness, young man.

Promotion to General

tiresias

...Wulfric, please... Don't make me beg you.

wulfric

Tiresias, if you will insist on putting your neck in harm's way,
then I, in turn, shall insist that you continue wearing heavy armor.

tiresias

The suit's so uncomfortable! And, you know... heavy.

wulfric

Difficult to pierce, as well. It keeps you safe, Tiresias!

tiresias

I know, I know. I remember your spiel, thanks...
I just feel like a total sitting duck in that pile of scrap!
That's not exactly great for my chances of survival either, is it?

wulfric

tiresias

I know that, come what may, you would protect me.

wulfric

I would duel Death itself to keep you from its cold, final grasp.
I am only afraid... that I would lose.

tiresias

...W-Wulfric...
(smiles) A-Aw, heck... Why must you always do this to me?

wulfric

I will not apologize for loving you. Only for not loving you enough.
You will have to find it in your heart to forgive me for my nagging worries.

tiresias

Bah... All things considered, I suppose the armor's rather stylish...

(Apate steps in.)

apate

...Ahem... If I may interrupt.

wulfric

Lady Apate...

apate

I will not be long.
I have one more tool to entrust to you.

tiresias

(smiles) Oho! I knew it. It does get better!

(Apate approaches Tiresias and gives him a Barrier staff.)

apate

I have picked this staff, among those which I still possess.
It is the one that I believe will best suit you,
as one who has chosen the path of the protector.

tiresias

Huh... What does it look like, Wulfric?

wulfric

The adornments are breathtaking. I have never seen anything like it...

apate

With this staff, you can envelop allies in an ephemeral, yet protective veil.
In this state, magic and blade alike shall find it difficult to do them harm.
Its power is great, yet limited. Use it wisely.

tiresias

Wow... Lady Apate, I do not know what to say.

apate

I require no words. I trust in your judgment.

wulfric

(smiles) Heh... My goodness, Tiresias.
Is there anybody in the world that you could not charm?

tiresias

(smiles) Don't praise me too much, you two, or it'll go to my head!
Ahahaha... Thank you kindly, Lady Apate. For everything.

apate

All right... Do not let me keep you, then.

wulfric

(smiling) Well, Tiresias, if you wish to try out your mentor's latest gift...

tiresias

Ah, that's my favorite test subject! Come now, without delay...

(Wulfric and Tiresias leave.)

apate

......
I... I only wish you every happiness, young man.

Promotion (Any) if Wulfric is dead

tiresias

......

apate

...Ahem... I hope it is not a bad time.

tiresias

(smiles) I have naught but time. Speak your mind, Lady Apate.

apate

I have one more tool to entrust to you.

(Tiresias starts.)

tiresias

Stronger healing?

(Apate approaches Tiresias.)

apate

No... It is not for restoration.
The one that you have now will suffice for that.

tiresias

Ah...

apate

I have picked this staff, among those which I still possess.
It is the one that I believe best suits the path you have chosen...

tiresias

I can feel the power emanating from it...
A benign sort of power, however. The one you use to help others.
(smiles) Thank you kindly, Lady Apate. It shall come in handy, I'm sure.

apate

......

tiresias

......
I know what your answer shall be, Lady Apate.
I know that the connotations of my question will worry you.
But I would never forgive myself if I lacked the courage to ask.

Lady Apate... Do you have anything that could restore Wulfric's life?

apate

......
Careful, boy. That sort of question is how it begins.

tiresias

Of course. That is what I had expected. Just about.
...Then I shall thank you for your latest gift, my friend,
and pray that it will restore my erstwhile passion.

(Tiresias leaves.)

apate

......
If only I could do it, young man. I would.
What I wouldn't sacrifice, to restore your happiness....
(closes eyes) To undo the many injustices that I am to blame for...

After awarding Tiresias' final staff, Apate & Tiresias' support gains one rank.

Vasiliki Vulneraries

Chapters 10, 13, & 20

vasiliki

(smiles) Commander! I have done it!
I've managed to make a vulnerary for you.
Here you go. Hope it saves a life or two!

Chapter 17

vasiliki

Commander... I know the timing's a bit wonky.
But uh... Just before, well... What happened...
I managed to finish a vulnerary for you.
Given the circumstances, I don't know how much help it'll be, but...

kyra

It could save a life. You never know.
Thanks for doing this, Vasiliki.

vasiliki

(smiles) Smile, Commander. It's the best one can do in times like this.

Plato Skills

Aptitude

plato

(grinning) Commander! Commander, over here!
Ahhh... Can you smell that in the air, my commanding friend?
It's the smell of new power! Yours truly's latest!
A brand-new special ability:
Aptitude! Aww yeah, baby!
With this, I'm going to become even MORE awesome soon enough!
But I'm not stopping here, oh no... The Blood Demon wants more!

(Plato punches the air.)

Hahahahahahahaha!

kyra

...Okay.

Astra

plato

(grinning) Commander! Commander Kyra, listen!
This is it. I've done it! Not that there was ever any doubt, heh.
I was already pretty cool, but now I am officially... Drumroll, please...
The greatest swordsman in the land, with the land's specialest ability:
Astra! Oooohhhhhh mama!
I'll defeat our enemies FIVE times over before they even realize!
Make way, world! Here comes... The Astral Demon!

(Plato punches the air.)

Hahahahahahahaha!

kyra

...Sure.

Oizys

This conversation triggers if López is promoted to Artificer and Demeter has been recruited.

narrator

You overhear a conversation between your allies...

(López casts Flux.)

López

Ahh, rats... Still no good...

(López huffs.)

Dammit! Everyone else made it look so easy...!

If Fango and Begoña are alive

Begoña

Maybe time to take a break, eh? C'mon. Sit down.

López

But...

(closes eyes) Sigh... Aye aye, boss...
I just feel like I don't improve. Magic's so hard...

fango

I keep tellin' ya, man. You shoulda just focused on yer swordyship.
It was really comin' along. If ye'd just learned a few fancy techniques...

López

(opens eyes) It's “swordsmanship,” Fango. And that ain't true and ya know it!
It's all I can do to swing the pointy edge at the enemy without cuttin' myself.
If I truly wanna be an asset out there... I've gotta branch out.

...Least that's what I thought at the time. Startin' to be less sure now...
(closes eyes) Sigh... Maybe yer right, Fango. Maybe I shoulda just made the obvious choice.

fango

(smiles) Heeeey, that's not what I'm tryin' to say, neither!
You got there in the end with swords. You'll get there with magic.

Begoña

(smiles) Yeah! We believe in our boy! Ya'll be a proper mage any day now!
Yer gonna show all them snotty bookworms that even stinky lowlifes can pull it off!

López

(opens eyes) Ya got one thing right, boss. I stink.
I stink at magic as much as I stink in general.
(closes eyes) Sigh...

(Begoña flinches.)

Begoña

(frowns) Gah...! Sorry, López! Didn't mean to...

fango

(frowns) Hey, boss? Reckon we better get outta his hair 'fore we say the wrong thing again...

López

(opens eyes) ......

Begoña

Y-Yeah! Think ya got the right o' it, Fango!

fango

Just take a deep breath and try to relax. 'Aight, man?
You know we gotcha, no matter what. Don't push yerself.

López

(smiles) ...Thanks, guys. Honestly, dunno where I'd be without you two.

fango

(smiles) Awww. Love ya too, man.

Begoña

(smiles) Haha... My boys! The very best o' the best!

(Fango and Begoña leave.)

López

(serious) ......
Okay. Gotta keep practicin'. Gotta make 'em proud. Don't give up...
C'mon, López! Just wave yer hands and say the wonky words! It ain't that hard...!

If Fango is dead

Begoña

Maybe time to take a break, eh? C'mon. Sit down.

López

But...

(closes eyes) Sigh... Aye aye, boss...
I just feel like I don't improve. Magic's so hard...

Begoña

Hey now, it ain't all bad. You were really improvin' with swords.
Maybe you oughta just focus on those. Learn some more techniques, and...

López

C'mon, boss, don't do that. That ain't true and ya know it!
It's all I can do to swing the pointy edge at the enemy without cuttin' myself.
If I truly wanna be an asset out there... I've gotta branch out.

...Least that's what I thought at the time. Startin' to be less sure now...
(closes eyes) Sigh... Maybe yer right, boss. Maybe I shoulda just made the obvious choice.

Begoña

Oi! That ain't what I meant!
(smiles) I, for one, believe in my boy! Ya'll be a proper mage any day now!
Yer gonna show all them snotty bookworms that even stinky lowlifes can pull it off!

López

(opens eyes) Ya got one thing right, boss. I stink.
I stink at magic as much as I stink in general.
(closes eyes) Sigh...

(Begoña flinches.)

Begoña

(frowns) Gah...! Sorry, López! Didn't mean to...

Look, maybe it's better I give you some space for a bit.
I got yer back, all the way. So don't push yerself, okay?

López

(opens eyes) ...Thanks, boss. Honestly, dunno where I'd be without you.
Especially now that Fango's... Well, y'know.

Begoña

You and me both, López. You and me both.
We've got to do right by him. And we do that by keepin' it up.
Don't you go forgettin' that.

(Begoña leaves.)

López

......
Okay. Gotta keep practicin'. Gotta make 'em proud. Don't give up...
C'mon, López! Just wave yer hands and say the wonky words! It ain't that hard...!

If Begoña is dead

fango

Don't wanna be pushy, but I think ya need to take a rest, man.

López

But...

(closes eyes) Sigh... Aye aye...
I just feel like I don't improve. Magic's so hard...

fango

I keep tellin' ya, man. You shoulda just focused on yer swordyship.
It was really comin' along. If ye'd just learned a few fancy techniques...

López

...Least that's what I thought at the time. Startin' to be less sure now...
(closes eyes) Sigh... Maybe yer right, Fango. Maybe I shoulda just made the obvious choice.

fango

(smiles) Heeeey, that's not what I'm tryin' to say, neither!
You got there in the end with swords. You'll get there with magic.
And then all those bookworms'll have to admit, even a stinky lowlife can do it!

López

(opens eyes) Ya got one thing right. I stink.
I stink at magic as much as I stink in general.
(closes eyes) Sigh...

(Fango flinches.)

fango

(frowns) Oops-- No no no! Didn't mean to say... You know I...

Gah... Reckon I better get outta yer hair before I say the wrong thing again...

López

(opens eyes) ......

fango

Yep! Definitely better!
Look, just take a deep breath and try to relax. 'Aight, man?
You know I gotcha, no matter what. Don't push yerself.

López

...Thanks, man. Honestly, dunno where I'd be without you.
Especially now that the boss's... Well, y'know.

fango

Believe me, pal, I've woken up cryin' more than a few times.
But we don't give up. That's how we let 'er down.
Always remember that.

(Fango leaves.)

López

......
Okay. Gotta keep practicin'. Gotta make 'em proud. Don't give up...
C'mon, López! Just wave yer hands and say the wonky words! It ain't that hard...!

If Fango and Begoña are dead

López

(closes eyes) I just feel like I don't improve. Magic's so hard...

(opens eyes) Bah. Who am I talkin' to? Maybe I'm just going nuts.
I'm all alone now... I'm useless without those two...
Maybe if they'd been 'ere, they'd 'ave talked me outta this silly idea...
I shoulda just made the obvious choice. Focused on my swordsmanship.
(smiles) Pfeh. Branchin' out. Learnin' magic. What a bloody idiot I am...
I stink at magic as much as I stink in general.
(frowns) (closes eyes) Sigh... Gosh darn it, I miss 'em so much...

(opens eyes) ......
Okay. Gotta keep practicin'. Gotta make 'em proud. Don't give up...
C'mon, López! Just wave yer hands and say the wonky words! It ain't that hard...!

(López continues practicing.)

demeter

(smiles) Oh, hi! It's you!

(López jumps.)

López

Aaaaaargh! H-Holy crud, ya damn near scared the life outta me!
Haa... D-Don't just sneak up on people! Geez!

demeter

(frowns) Oh, no! I'm so sorry! I messed up again...

López

Whaddya want with me, then?

demeter

(smiles) You're López, right? I'm so happy to meet you!

López

...Right.

demeter

(frowns) Awww, but you look a bit sad. What's wrong, López?

López

Wha...? Nah, I ain't... I mean, that's...

...Bah. It's this crummy magic thing. I thought I was being smart, dammit!
Pick up magic, expand my skills, become more... I dunno, versatile?

demeter

(smiles) Wow, that does sound super smart to me!

López

No, I'm an idiot. I ain't any good at it.

If Fango is alive

López

Shoulda just improved my swordyship.
No, drat... Meant to say my swordsmans...

(López huffs.)

Argh! Curse you, Fango!

demeter

(frowns) My! Please, calm down! Don't get angry at your buddy now!

López

Yeah, yer right... Real sorry 'bout that.

If Fango is dead

López

Shoulda just improved my swordsmanship.
Swordsmanship? That how you say that? Or is it swordy...ship...? Tch...

demeter

(frowns) My! Such harsh words! Please, don't say things like that!

López

Yeah, s'ppose yer right... Real sorry 'bout that.

demeter

I want you to know something, López. I know that you're really tough on yourself.
I totally get it. It's hard to see the value in yourself, sometimes. I feel it often.
But when those nasty little thoughts start nibbling at you, remember this:
(smiles) You are loved, López. Loved by so many... You can't even imagine how loved you are!

López

...L-Lo...ved...?

(López guffaws.)

(grins) Baaahahahahahahaha...! Ahahahahaha...!
Ahh... Oh, b-by the Mother's underpants, that's a killer!

demeter

I mean it! And you know what? Now that I've met you?
No wonder! You're such an inspiring guy, López!
It really is incredible how many cool people there are in this group.
This must be what heaven looks like, heh.

López

...Y'know what? I'm completely confused, but...
I do feel a bit better now. Thanks a lot, good lady!

demeter

Teehee... Positive reinforcement can work wonders, dearie.
Okay, I won't distract you any more. Take it one step at a time, all right?
Everybody believes in you.

(Demeter leaves.)

López

Huh... Fancy that...

(serious) ...Hmmm? What's... Oi! Er, lady! Come back!

(Demeter returns.)

demeter

(frowns) Hmm?

López

Ya dropped this book. Seems pretty rare.

demeter

(smiles) Oh, that's so attentive of you. I'm always losing my stuff...
You're such a kind soul, despite the pain that you carry within you.
As a reward for your good heart, you can keep that.
Who knows. You might even find it useful!

López

Huh? No, c'mon, it looks way too valuable. Can't accept it.
'Sides, I can't read. Don't ask how I'm doin' magic. It's complicated.

demeter

(frowns) I won't take no for an answer!
(smiles) Wow... I sounded so assertive there, didn't I? Heehee! I'm going to write that one down!

(Demeter leaves.)

López

And off she goes... One heck of an odd bird, that one.
...Hmm... Gotta admit, I do feel... weirdly drawn to this thing.
Could it be a magic tome, too? Guess I could try givin' it a whirl...

Oizys
Empowered by pain.
[Grants Frenzy effect. Stronger if the other members of the bandit trio are dead. López only.]