Chapter 15: In the Throes of War

Opening

(As the group approaches Fort Lesmosyne, Apate becomes lost in a memory.)

a man

At last! I was about to send someone to seek you out!
Overslept?

a woman

Forgive me. I knew I had to leave my bed, but my body categorically refused.
Is that truly so surprising? You've been working me hard these past weeks.

a man

Yes... You're right. Forgive me.
I've been too focused on this. I, myself, have neglected rest.
But you should not lay the blame solely at my feet.
Who is it that insists on continuing every time I suggest a break?

a woman

Heh... That's a fair point. I cannot help it.
Whenever we're not working, I just spend my time thinking about it.
I come up with more theories, then I feel restless until I can test them.

a man

No rest for the weary, by the weary's own demand.
We're two reckless fools, are we not?

a woman

Reckless, and stupid.
The rational side of my mind tells me it would be wiser to take things slow.
But then my heart suggests if I just keep working for five more minutes, maybe...

a man

Maybe today will be the day. I know the feeling well.
Impatience is known to lead the most brilliant to idiocy.
But then, who are we to oppose our own nature?

a woman

I, for one, would embrace it. Let us resume our work.

???

...Hey! Apate! Are you listening to me?

(Apate comes back to reality.)

kyra

Apate! Focus! It's not like you to daydream!

apate

Do not misunderstand. I am ready as always.

barlowe

This is a larger force than I am accustomed to seeing here.
It makes sense, of course. They would not invade without due preparation.

apate

Margrave, as the military expert, I would ask you one question.
As it stands, are we truly prepared to begin our offensive against Tartaros?
Or to fend off any ambushes that they may set upon us?

barlowe

Well, truth be told--

kyra

What, are we just going to roll over and do nothing after what they did?
Just a while ago you were complaining that I wanted us to take a rest.
Now you're complaining that we're taking the fight to them directly.
I'm in no mood for your mood swings. Would you make up your mind?

apate

I am worried. The actions they have taken appear utterly boneheaded. It feels odd.
I know not what their plan is, but a plan they have. Of that I am certain.
We need be prepared for anything, and I fear we may not be...

kyra

I'm not sitting tight while our friends - my brother - are Mother knows where!

apate

......

kyra

Throw as many glacial glares and sarcastic quips at me as you like.
I'll go look for them. On my own, if I have to, but I'm going.

barlowe

That would be most unadvisable.
Listen, to begin, let us take Fort Lesmosyne by storm and seize it.
It will net us a key position and provide Tartaros with a sample of our mettle.
Once we have accomplished this, we may discuss our following movements.
Is that agreeable?

kyra

You're the strategist. Whatever helps us to find them faster.

apate

...Very well...

barlowe

Let me survey the battlefield. I will have more advice for you after.

(Barlowe leaves.)

kyra

A second, Apate...

apate

What?

kyra

Don't you dare forget that I am here with you for one reason alone.
You better hope we can find my brother and the others alive and well.

apate

......

kyra

Just a friendly reminder. C'mon. Let's go gather the guys.

(Kyra leaves.)

apate

...That's just as well, Kyra. I never had high hopes for you, either.

Base Camp

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.]

Battle Start

(Barlowe approaches Kyra after scouting the battlefield.)

kyra

So what pearls of wisdom do you have for me?

barlowe

We have two avenues of attack.
We can go straight through the middle and plow through their vanguard.
That will be difficult, but it is the quickest way to the castle.
Alternatively, we can lead our troops through the east and west.
The flanks are not as open. They should prove easier to pierce.

kyra

Huh... Is that all? I could've figured that out by myself.

barlowe

(smiles) I told you before. My reputation is highly exaggerated.
(serious) Some battles simply do not leave room for miracle strategies.
We are presented with a test of our prowess. It is as simple as that.

kyra

...We won't be stopped here.
Nothing is going to stop me until I find them...

barlowe

Today's battle will be key to our campaign, as well.
If we fail from the onset, we do not stand a chance.
(smiles) But I believe in you, my friend. You have great potential.
I shall observe from the rear. Best of luck to you...

Enemy Turn 1

alba

Just as predicted, the heretics march toward us, General!

euryma

(smiles) Like fleas they are lured, to the honey that is our steel.
Her Highness once again proves why she is the Grand Inquisitor.
(serious) Now, it is our responsibility to ensure her trust in us was not misplaced.
We are the first of many contingencies, but we can also be the last she needs!
Should I bring the heretic or her head to her, I shall earn a place at her side.
And the man or woman who brings me that head shall inherit my position in turn!
What say you, loyal soldiers of the Mother? Shall we earn glory unprecedented today?

(Alba salutes.)

alba

(smiles) Aye aye, General Euryma!
May the Mother's mercy be upon us all,
and may the heathens know Her wrath!

If Aura was not defeated in Chapter 14

(Alba leaves.)

aura

General Euryma, I wish to take the fight to them.
Commander Sarpedon deserves to be avenged.

euryma

Yes... Sarpedon fulfilled his duty admirably. His loss is regrettable.
But you and your sister are the rising stars of my detachment.
Not to mention, Cybele would never forgive me if I let harm befall you!
See that you do not take needless risks over sentimentality.
The commander would not have wanted that for you.

aura

You flatter me, General. I will not disappoint you!

euryma

I do not expect that you shall. Go forth, knight of Tartaros!

Enemy Turn 5 (if Euryma is still alive)

euryma

They fight with tenacity, indubitably.
But their lashing out is only just that.
Soon, the pincer attack shall begin...
Pinned on both sides, their end will be inevitable.
(grins) And thus, I shall have made my mark in history!

When Aura is defeated

(Aura flies to the southwest village and stumbles past the gates, heavily wounded.)

aura

Khh... Urgh...

nicaea

Rather nasty gash you got there, Aura.

aura

Ah, there you are, Nicaea. Thank the Mother!
I need you to relieve me. I must tend to my injuries.
Here, take my lance and strike them from behind!

nicaea

Ah, you would let me have your treasured spear?

aura

(smiles) I treasure your safety more than any weapon, Nicaea.
Make sure you exercise proper caution, all right?
As soon as I've bandaged this, I'll arm myself and catch up.
Go on, don't be shy. Pick the lance up.

(Nicaea walks over to Aura and takes the lance.)

nicaea

Thank you, Aura.
That makes everything a lot simpler.

aura

Good luck out there, sis--

(Nicaea brutally stabs Aura with the lance, killing her.)

nicaea

......

Conversations

Aura

Combat

aura

Why are you doing this?
How could you spit on the Mother's infinite kindness?
...No matter. Retreat, or I shall be forced to attack!

Combat w/ Agari

agari

...Hey...

aura

A holy army defector...
What's with that look? Do we know each other?

agari

No. You and I... We don't.
There's no chance you'll surrender, is there?

aura

I have a mission to fulfill, and fulfill it I shall!

agari

Tch...

Combat w/ Zaccheus

zaccheus

Halt! You're a Tartaran scout, correct?
Heed me! I am not in league with these people!

aura

You are not? It sure looks like it to me!

zaccheus

W-Well, I... Ah, fie! Yes, I'm with them!
But not out of my own volition, I assure you!
My hand is being forced! I am a victim here!

aura

...What do you want from me?

zaccheus

(smiles) Ah, much better. Let me aboard your, uh... beast.
You shall bring me to your superiors.
We'll discuss the specifics of a prospective deal, and...

aura

How dim do you think I am?

zaccheus

Wha-- You dare to imply I am lying to you?!
I am Margrave Zaccheus of Conwy!
I have plenty to offer, and no love for these loons!
I'm offering you the chance of a lifetime on a silver platter!
How much of an idiot do you have to be to refuse me?!

aura

Oh, why-- That's enough! Leave me alone!

zaccheus

Don't you dare turn your back on me...!
Tartaran trash! Return here at once!

Combat w/ Simeon

simeon

You there! A Tartaran on reconnaissance duty, yes?
How providential. You shall help me!

aura

Why would I help an ally of heretics?

simeon

Huh? An ally of... Me?! You insult me!
I will admit that it appears that way, but... Well...
Curses, I would rather be anywhere than here!
They dragged me along! Threatened my life!

aura

...What do you want from me?

simeon

(smiles) That's better. Simply allow that I travel atop your... steed.
I shall rendezvous with your superiors.
Once I explain the situation and we reach an agreement...

aura

How dim do you think I am?

simeon

Wha-- What's that supposed to mean?!
I am Margrave Simeon of Powys!
A margrave, you understand? I have power, funds, troops!
...Well, not so much of the last one these days, but...
Don't be stupid, girl! You simply cannot reject my offer!

aura

Oh, why-- That's enough! Leave me alone!

simeon

N-No! I order you to stop turning against me!
Tartaran filth! Come back to me!

Defeat

aura

A-Ah! No... Mother, save me...!

Lady of the Lake

Combat

lady

Suffer for your mistakes!

Combat w/ Ofelia

ofelia

My. A fellow actress.
Odd place for a performer, but I guess I'm also here.

lady

Wha-- Actress?! I'm the lady of the lake!
And I'm beyond pissed right now. Don't make things worse!

ofelia

Very convincing.
I would take my hat off, if I had one.
Trust me, I do not offer praise lightly.
...Your appearance warrants some criticism, though.
Blue hair, blue lipstick, blue dress...
Goodness, girl. That's rather over the top, don't you think?

lady

I'm going to kill you!

ofelia

Oh dear... Got an ego, have you?
Ah, that's just as well.
(smiles) I guess it falls to me to bring you down a peg.

Defeat

Lady

Well, in lieu of memory and intellect, you do have some modicum of strength.
Take the lance and get a good look at the colors.
Try to remember for next time, okay?

Alba

Combat

alba

(grins) You should never have returned, rebels.
You could have lived out your years in peace.
Instead, your pitiful lives shall end here and now!

Combat w/ Raleigh

alba

Ah, so it's true.
Glamorgan's dark knights have sold their souls to heresy.

raleigh

What? No, I...
Well, yes, we're receiving aid from Glamorgan,
but I wasn't--

alba

(grins) So be it. We welcome your challenge, and the opportunity to punish your seditious nation!
Come - You are the first in line to be vanquished!

raleigh

No, listen to me! I...
Oh, why am I even trying to explain?

Death

alba

They are... strong... So strong...!

Euryma

Combat

euryma

(smiles) The lambs are punctual to the slaughter, I see.
I shall grant you the quick end you desire!

Combat w/ Kyra

euryma

(smiles) Ahh... The rebel commander, are you not?
I am glad you have come to face me personally.
Your valor, if nothing else, is laudable.

kyra

Bastards... Is this all a game to you?
Invading other countries... Causing all this... chaos!
Why can't you just leave well enough alone?!

euryma

Hah! Wax all the poetic you desire, lass.
Ultimately, I know you do not care about any of that.
No... It is just your brother that concerns you.

kyra

...Where is he? What's become of him?!

euryma

(frowns) Trust me, girl, when I tell you this:
You will be better off if you die before you find out.

kyra

Oh, someone's going to die, all right.

Combat w/ Hestia

euryma

Ah, the blacksmith. There you are at last.
I had been wondering when you would show your face.

hestia

General Euryma.
Not the best circumstances to meet again.

euryma

Indeed not.
I know not if you recall, but this armor I wear,
it was you that made it.

hestia

Yeah, I remember. Custom job.
I was a little surprised, actually.
Full gold coating with a silver trim?
Seemed a tad too lavish for such a decorated officer.

euryma

Well, like anybody, I have my flights of fancy.
And they do not involve craven heresy...
Unlike yours.

hestia

...Right.
And I was so proud of how that armor turned out, too.
I may have to bend it out of shape now. What a shame.

euryma

You shall do no such thing!

Combat w/ Nicaea

euryma

Nicaea?! You turn your spear against us?!
You would betray your homeland? Your sister?!

nicaea

It was with my sister's blood that I signed my defection.

euryma

That... cannot be...

nicaea

And why not?
She didn't hesitate when she sold our parents off.
Why should I hesitate to pierce her heart with her own lance?
Incidentally, I am about to do the same to you, General.
Make peace with your regrets, if you have any.

euryma

Have you gone mad, Nicaea?! Stop this at once!

Death

euryma

(smiles) You'll come... to regret that you survived my merciful steel...
The Grand Inquisitor may... prefer to see you suffer...

Locations

Southwest Village

If Aura was not defeated in Chapter 14

Before defeating Aura

Default

nicaea

...Hmmm... It's you. The enemy.

visitor

......

nicaea

Say... There is a pegasus knight out on the field.
Her name is Aura. She looks a little like me.
Would you kindly send her my way?
I doubt she'll stop to listen to a heretic,
but if you clip her wings, she'll likely flee here.
Hmm? Oh, don't worry. You won't kill her.
She's got a talent for escaping tough spots.
Just do what I ask and come back after.
I'll make it worth your while.

If Agari is visiting

nicaea

It's you...

agari

...Oh...

nicaea

You know... Aura is out there.
You remember her, right? She looks a little like me.
Would you kindly send her my way?
I doubt she'll stop to listen to a so-called traitor,
but if you clip her wings, she'll likely flee here.

agari

Are you certain you want to go down this road, Nicaea?

nicaea

Oh, don't worry. You won't kill her.
She's got a talent for escaping tough spots, remember?
Just do what I ask and come back after.

agari

......

After defeating Aura

Default

(The visitor startles upon seeing Nicaea.)

visitor

...!

nicaea

There you are. You took your time.
You know, I had expected revenge to feel more...
Well, more anything, really. I feel completely... empty.
Spite has long driven me, and it has led me nowhere.
What will I do now? Should I even do anything at all?

Perhaps I shall simply replace spite with spite.
To oblivion with the Mother and Her church.
I would join you and see them all put in the dirt.
Of course, I cannot force you to accept me, but...
You aren't exactly drowning in warriors of the skies, right?
I promise you, I am not truly the duplicitous sort.
Let me buy your trust with plentiful inquisitorial blood.

If Agari is visiting

(Agari startles upon seeing Nicaea.)

nicaea

Agari... You took your time.

agari

...!
Nicaea... You didn't...

nicaea

You know, I had expected revenge to feel more...
Well, more anything, really. I feel completely... empty.
Spite has long driven me, and it has led me nowhere.
What will I do now? Should I even do anything at all?

Perhaps I shall simply replace spite with spite.
To oblivion with the Mother and Her church.
I would join you and see them all put in the dirt.
You aren't exactly drowning in warriors of the skies, right?
And if any of your comrades harbor any doubts...
I shall buy their trust with plentiful inquisitorial blood.

agari

......

If Aura was defeated in Chapter 14

Default

nicaea

...Hmmm... It's you. The enemy.
There was a pegasus knight that looked a bit like me at Wrexham.
You're the ones who sent her running for her life, right?
I have to thank you. You made everything remarkably easy.

visitor

......

nicaea

If Agari is visiting

nicaea

It's you...

agari

...Oh...

nicaea

I guess you're the ones who sent Aura running for her life, right?
I have to thank you. You made everything remarkably easy.

agari

What did you do, Nicaea...?

nicaea

agari

......

Central Village

steward

Ah, I had anticipated you would arrive sooner rather than later.
The margrave bid me procure a certain item from a resident of this town.
It is an axe of slick design that allows it to tear through all manner of armor.
Please, help yourself. The margrave took care of all costs, naturally.
Let me tell you, that arrogant blacksmith drove a hard bargain...
I pray this axe's purported capabilities are more than just purported.

(He gives the visitor a Wolf Beil.)

Southern House

Default

man

A tree fell into the lake nearby the other day.
What's so special about that? I'm glad you asked!
You see, it was felled by a bolt of lightning. Zap-pow!
However, there wasn't a storm going down at the time! Can you believe it?
There's got to be more to this. I would stake my mustache on it.
I suspect something nice will happen if someone checks the place out.

Ah, but it's too much trouble.
What if some fairy rises from the lake and asks me to save the world or something?
Nuh-uh. I ain't risking it. I'm not leaving this chair for nothin' in the world!

If Vasiliki is visiting

vasiliki's father

(smiles) Vasi!

vasiliki

Hi, Dad!

vasiliki's father

Goodness me! It's so good to see you safe and sound!

(Vasiliki's father tries to get up, but can't.)

Mmph...

vasiliki

N-No, please, Dad, you don't need to get up...

vasiliki's father

Ah... Sorry, girl. My back's not been kind to me these past few weeks...
(smiles) B-But still! I'm so glad you've come to pay us a visit!

vasiliki's mother

(smiles) Oh! I thought I heard someone come in...
But I hadn't imagined it would be you!

vasiliki

Hi, Mom! I'm so glad to see you both again!

vasiliki's mother

Dear me, how long has it been since you left?

vasiliki

(frowns) I-It's only been a few weeks...
How's everything been around here?

vasiliki's father

Well, a tree fell into the lake nearby the other day.
What's so special about that? I'm glad you asked!
You see, it was felled by a bolt of lightning. Zap-pow!
However, there wasn't a storm going down at the time! Can you believe it?
There's got to be more to this. I would stake my mustache on it.
I suspect something nice will happen if someone checks the place out.

vasiliki's mother

C'mon, don't bore her with that silly gossip.
You'll stay with us for a few days, surely?

vasiliki

Ah... W-Well, the thing is...
I'm kind of in the middle of a contract.
In fact, I'm supposed to be on the job right now.

vasiliki's father

Oh...

vasiliki

Has the money I sent last time ran out yet?

vasiliki's mother

No, not quite, but...
Ah, what does it matter. We'd rather you just...

vasiliki

Mom, please... We went over this before.
Dad can't work and neither can you. It's up to me.

vasiliki's father

...You have no idea how we worry, Vasi... It's unbearable...

vasiliki

I know... I'm sorry. I'll make sure to write more often, okay?
(smiles) But you don't have to worry!
This new group I'm with, they're all so nice!

vasiliki's mother

I'm so glad about that...

vasiliki's father

Run along, then. We wouldn't want to get you in trouble with them.

vasiliki

(frowns) Er... I-I'm sure the commander would be okay if I stayed at least--

vasiliki's mother

No, no, please. Just seeing you looking so animated is enough.
Just be careful, please. Don't forget: If the going gets tough...

vasiliki

(smiles) Smile through the pain!

vasiliki's father

Hahaha... Stay safe, child.

vasiliki

Will do! All right, I better get going then. Write to you soon!

vasiliki's mother

Good luck, Vasi...

(Vasiliki's parents leave.)

vasiliki

......
This is why you fight, Vasiliki. Never forget it.
They're counting on you... You've got to pull through...

Central House

man

H-Have you heard the rumors?
Past the bridges, going north towards Amnisos, there lies a forest.
They say, deep in those lush woods... There lives a wicked witch!
You know, one of those mighty, evil witches with hats and everything!
I mean, I'm sure it's just a tall tale some kids came up with, right?
B-But still! Can you imagine that? A wicked witch in the woods?!
T-That's gonna keep me up at night! Oh, brother...!

Northern House

If Telemus was killed

old woman

My, my. I remember you.
'Tis a sorry state of affairs you return to, travelers.
You killed General Telemus, but he was quickly replaced.
We haven't seen much of the new lady of the castle.
It seems she and her troops lie in wait of something.
...If it is you, you should be wary. They will stop at nothing.
Though perhaps you deserve what's coming to you.
The general... You didn't have to kill him!

If Telemus was spared

old woman

My, my. I remember you.
'Tis a sorry state of affairs you return to, travelers.
You spared the good general Telemus back then.
For that I am grateful. He deserved not such an end.
Instead, he was merely sent away, and duly replaced.
We haven't seen much of the new lady of the castle.
It seems she and her troops lie in wait of something.
...If it is you, I beg you to be wary. They will stop at nothing.
And if you come across General Telemus, do lower your weapons.
I do not know where he is now, but he is grateful to you.

Fallen Tree

(A woman appears from the lake in a flash of light. She looks identical to Anna, but blue instead of red.)

lady

O warrior... I have a riddle to bestow upon you.
Solve it, and you shall reap rewards worthy of your valor.

Which of these colors is missing from the brave lance icon?

If you answer correctly

lady

Correct.
For your acumen, I reward you with the object within your mind's eye.

(She gives the visitor a Brave Lance.)

If you answer incorrectly

lady

Wrong!
And now you will suffer the wrath of the tides!

(The lady of the lake teleports behind the visiting character and becomes hostile.)

Ending

Fort Lesmosyne

kyra

This is the true might of the theocracy?

apate

Only a first taste. This has just begun.

barlowe

For the time being, our objective has been accomplished. Next--

???

Kyra!

(Beatrix approaches.)

kyra

Oh, you're still around.

beatrix

Of course. Did you doubt me?
...Don't answer that. We have more important things to talk about.
I took the liberty of looking through the enemy commander's pockets.

kyra

Is looting corpses a hobby of yours or what?

beatrix

Only when I have a hunch it might be useful.
And my hunches are often correct. Check this out.

kyra

What's that? A letter?
...Wait, is that my name on it?!

barlowe

Hold, let me take a closer look...
I am certain you recognize this handwriting as well as I do, Kyra.

kyra

Redbeard...
But why would the enemy have a letter written by him?

beatrix

My guess is they found it in Wrexham Keep.
C'mon, don't leave me in suspense. What does it say?

kyra

I'm shocked you didn't read it yourself.

beatrix

I am capable of some restraint. Go on, don't be shy.

kyra

......
“Where the waters run red and the hogs lie dormant,
there with the alabaster one will we toast to fate,
when the lord of the night becomes rotund.”

barlowe

Typical Edward. Give him a feather and suddenly he thinks he is a poet.

beatrix

That doesn't even rhyme...

barlowe

But that does explain why they did not simply discard this message.
They would not do that without comprehending its meaning.

apate

Or they have long deciphered it, and we are being led into a trap.

barlowe

All in due time, Lady Apate.
First, we must glean the true message Edward hid in these grandiloquent lines.

kyra

...I think I get it... Where's the map?

Percote... My hometown.
It's not far from the twin bridges, see?
Waters running red... Wine, and hogs... Porkchops.
He wants to meet in Percote's alehouse.

barlowe

(smiles) On the next full moon, which happens to be tonight.

apate

Such a childish riddle would have easily been unravelled by our foes.
And now they have seen to it that the missive finds its way to us.
Alabaster one clearly refers to me. He wants you and I to meet him alone?
This is obviously a trap. I suggest we stray clear of Percote.

kyra

...And abandon our friends, huh.
Do you want to know what I think about your suggestion, Apate?

barlowe

The writing is decidedly Edward's. I can attest to that.
Doubtless he left this behind when they made their escape of Wrexham, so that we would know where to seek them out.
He simply failed to hide it well enough, that is all.

apate

So you say. But what do we know of this man's motives, truly?

kyra

Don't even go there. Don't you dare!
Edward saved me and Elias. I trust him wholeheartedly.
I trust him more than I trust you, Apate...

barlowe

Think logically about this, Lady Apate. In truth, is it such an outlandish request?
Percote will be watched. Two people have a better chance of sneaking in undetected.
As for why you... I hesitate to even propose it, but perhaps one of them is injured.

(Kyra starts.)

kyra

...!
Apate, please. We can just as easily slip back out if--

apate

Do as you will. I refuse to follow this letter's instructions.

kyra

......
We should take a moment to stop and get our bearings, anyway.
Let's rest for the night, and then we will decide what to do next.

barlowe

Yes, that would be wise...

apate

......

Later that night...

(Apate awakes to discover she has been bound and gagged.)

apate

......
...?

(Apate startles.)

...! Mmph...!

kyra

Oh, you're awake.
I'm surprised you're such a heavy sleeper.
I'd taken you for the kind to sleep with an eye open.

Listen, I know how this looks...
But my brother could be bleeding to death right now.
Or... Or maybe his condition has worsened since we split up...
Whatever it is, it's got to be really bad.
Redbeard wouldn't have asked for you in particular otherwise.
I can't risk it... I just can't.

(Apate struggles.)

apate

Mmph! Mmmmmph...!

kyra

I'll set you free once we get there.
Just... please, trust me on this, okay?

apate

......
(closes eyes)

Character Descriptions

Nicaea
A Tartaran squire and middle of three triplets. She seeks new purpose after quenching her thirst for revenge.

Aura
A Tartaran squire and youngest of three triplets. A cheerful and devout believer in the theocracy's doctrine.

Euryma
A high-ranking general in the inquisition tasked with awaiting Kyra's group at the border.

Alba
Second-in-command of General Euryma. Steadfastly loyal.

?????
A very peeved lady of the lake.

Inquisition
Knights of Tartaros, standing tall against heresy and insurrection.