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Chapter 17: To the Bitter End

From this chapter onward, Kyra's unit description changes to the following:

Kyra
The indurate leader of a rebellion that would punish the theocracy for the many injustices of which they are guilty.

Opening

kyra
...So how's it looking, Margrave?
barlowe
We lack the materials or the time to set up proper barricades.
They are better equipped to hold a siege than we are to weather it,
meaning if we remain inside the fort, they will simply wait until we starve.
Ah, what else... They outnumber us ten to one... Surrounded on all sides...
kyra
Maybe it'd have been better if I hit a rock on my way downstream.
barlowe
If you did, then we truly would have been lost.
Your safe return has the troops' morale soaring.
Morale has historically won many a battle, my friend.
kyra
What's one common fighter more or less?
You could've taken up the reins just fine without me.
barlowe
Perhaps so, but the truth is, it is you that gathered these people together.
A young, daring commoner rising against a corrupted power far mightier than her...
I told you before. We tend to prefer heroics when they are simple and straightforward.
kyra
I don't feel like much of anything other than a blithering idiot right now.
barlowe
...What happened is the inquisition's fault and nobody else's, Kyra.
I beseech you to clear your mind and focus on the struggle ahead.
kyra
Do you truly believe we have a chance to survive, Margrave?
barlowe
(smiles) Last stands have a tendency not to live up to their name.
Listen to the genius tactician, Kyra. He knows what he's talking about.
kyra
...Only one way to find out, I guess.
(Apate approaches.)
apate
Kyra.
kyra
Apate... You ready?
apate
Naturally.
kyra
If you fight as well as you did back there, we might actually stand a chance.
apate
...It would not be prudent.
kyra
...?
apate
But I do have some cards left up my sleeve.
The time has come to draw them.

(Apate refuses to use her Nosferatu tome, but reveals Divine and Vortex tomes. She switches out her Heal staff for Mend and Physic staves.)

kyra
Feel free to be as cryptic as always, Apate.
As long as it helps us win this, I'll be fine with it.

Base Camp

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
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.
And the same goes for Agari.
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
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.
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.]

Enemy Turn 1

soldier
Grand Inquisitor, the troops are assembled and ready to advance.
sandraudiga
Give them no more time to make peace with their inner demons.
Let the carnage begin.
soldier
Er, aptly put, but there's just... one thing to note...
sandraudiga
Well?
soldier
The rebel leader has been spotted.
(Sandraudiga starts.)
sandraudiga
Seriously? They managed to fish her out of the river?!
Astounding! Why, I find myself utterly... flabbergasted!
That girl is something else. She's worse than a cockroach!
Cockroaches know to go “squish” when you crush them underfoot...

Well, that's all the more reason to wipe them out now, hmm?


If we let them slither out of our grasp, they're liable to keep causing trouble.
(The soldier salutes.)
soldier
Aye, Your Highness! I will give the order to march onward!
(The soldier leaves.)
sandraudiga
Hmm... Yes, it's probably going to end today.
But is that truly what I want, I wonder...

Turn 3

(Alastor, a halberdier, an assassin, and a wyvern lord arrive to reinforce Sandraudiga.)
sandraudiga
(smirks) Oh? What an interesting surprise...
alastor
(smirks) Hey there, Sandraudiga. Having fun, are we?
sandraudiga
Oh, I'm such an airhead...
I've taken such a massive wrong turn, I've ended up in the Kingdom of Zhu!
Odd how it looks so much like Tartaros, huh. So how's the campaign going?
alastor
The war with Zhu's over, Sandraudiga.
Now that I have free time, I am here to relieve you. Orders from above.
sandraudiga
(narrows eyes) Is that the truth?
alastor
Hey, don't take it out on the messenger now.
You can bring any objections up to the big man in Amnisos.
But you better hurry and get back while he can still hear you out.
sandraudiga
(frowns) What's that supposed to mean?
alastor
(serious) The hierophant's days are numbered, Sandraudiga.
(Sandraudiga balks.)
sandraudiga
What?!
alastor
You heard me. That's the truth, cross my heart and hope to die.
He's been keeping it hush-hush, of course, but I saw him myself.
His body is crumbling like an old building in a hurricane.
Word's starting to spread, too. The scion and consort both know.
Who knows what consequences this could have, Sandraudiga?
Someone ought to make sure matters are kept under control...
sandraudiga
(smiles) ......
alastor
Don't tell me you have--
sandraudiga
(still smiling) Shut up. I'm pondering how I could benefit from playing your game.
alastor
......
sandraudiga
(frowns) ...You know what?
(smiles) Have it your way. I shall go back to Amnisos with my reserve troops.
alastor
(smirks) Of course you will. Those are the hierophant's orders.
sandraudiga
Ahahaha... No, Alastor. They are not.
But that's just as well. I have...
Business, to conduct in Amnisos.
alastor
(frowns) ......
sandraudiga
The playground's all yours to handle as you see fit.
You may keep my vanguard. Aren't I a generous superior?
Do try not to embarrass yourself, dearest subordinate of mine.
(Sandraudiga leaves the battlefield.)
alastor
Hmph... I don't know what you think you're scheming,
but you just made a grave miscalculation.
(smirks) Soon you shall be the one to grovel before me, Sandraudiga.

(serious) Nestor!

Nestor
...Me, Colonel?
alastor
Ziying!
Ziying
......
alastor
Marina!
Marina
Alastor.
alastor
For now, let's see how Sandraudiga's peons handle themselves.
Go back to the outskirts of the forest and gather the lot we brought along.
If - when - the vanguard is repelled, you'll swoop in from all sides.
Clean, efficient, deadly. That's how I want this operation!
marina
Sounds good to me.
Look, Nestor. This is what he's said...
Nestor
...Hmm... Simple enough.
Ziying
......
(Alastor's lieutenants leave the battlefield.)

Turn 4

(Pericles arrives from the north, accompanied by a druid.)
pericles
This is it... The fort is just up ahead.
If they were able to leave Percote alive,
this is where I believe they would have fled.
fazang
Danger looms ahead.
pericles
Curses, they are out in full force...
fazang
At least that confirms your theory. What next, knight?
pericles
You have done enough. If you wish to return, do so.
But I must go to my comrades' aid.
fazang
Pride alone will not take you far.
pericles
...I know that, but I have imposed enough upon you...
fazang
We, too, need allies. Do not forget that.
Let us see them through the day, you and I.
pericles
(smiles) The Mother was merciful to see us meet, Fazang.
(frowns) Oh, er...
fazang
I will neither agree nor argue.
There are more important matters to see to.
pericles
Verily. Hie!
narrator
If Pericles or Fazang die in this map, it is game over.

Enemy Turn 9

alastor
(smiling) Not bad. The bunch reminds me of my mercenary days. Good times...
But I'm an important army man now, and the hierophant's word is law.
Think it's soon going to be time to bring this charade to a close.
soldier
Colonel!
alastor
Ah, right on cue. Is everything ready for the pincer?

Conversations

Kyra & Pericles

kyra
Pericles?!
pericles
Kyra...
No. Let us not lose our concentration here.
We can speak further after the battle is through!
kyra
Don't you dare get killed now, you hear me?
pericles
I shall do all in my power not to.

Agari & Pericles

agari
Dad!
pericles
Agariste...
agari
D-Dad... You're alive...

(smiles) All right. That's all I needed.
We're going to win this. We're going to survive!
Time to fight tooth and nail!

(Agari charges off.)
pericles
(smiles, closes eyes) My girl... I hadn't dared to hope I would see you again...
(opens eyes) ...But she's right. This is not the time for tears.
That will come later... After we fight to earn it!

Hestia & Pericles

hestia
Peri! You're still kicking!
pericles
Hestia?!
hestia
(grins) Shocked to see me fighting the good fight with everyone else?
pericles
(smiles) ...No, not particularly.
Desperate times, eh? Very well.
Let me see how well I trained you.
hestia
I dare say the student might have surpassed the master.
pericles
We stand together as peers, then, my friend!
hestia
Hehehe... Aye, aye!

Sandraudiga

Combat

sandraudiga
Rather a dullard, are we? That's fine.
I like my marks with just the right amount of stupidity.

Defeat

sandraudiga
Well! That's pretty good. My regards.
But I can't fall when there's so much left to be done!

Alastor

Combat

alastor
(smiles) Listen intently, pal. Can you hear that?
The winds somberly herald your demise.

Defeat

alastor
I see how you've survived so long against Sandraudiga!
That's fine. Believe it or not, I know when to hold back.
Men! The plan doesn't change! Keep going!
I'll oversee things from outside the perimeter!

Pericles Death

pericles
I was a terrible parent, friend and husband.
I deserve... worse than this...

Locations

Eupraxia's House

If Eupraxia was recruited in Chapter 5

Default

visitor
Nobody has lived here in some time...

If Tiresias is visiting

tiresias
Hard to believe just a few weeks back I was sipping tea with Eupraxia here...
I wonder, if I could go back in time and tell myself all that has come to pass...
Would I believe me?

If Wulfric is visiting

wulfric
...Hmm... Yes, one can tell this has been empty for some time.
Some wild animal has been making a bathroom out of the living room.
Oh dear...

If Eupraxia is visiting

eupraxia
Hmmm... I wonder if I will return here when this is all over.
Perhaps, if we are able to lay my regrets to rest...
I suppose we shall see.

If Eupraxia was not recruited in Chapter 5

Default

eupraxia
Oh, hello... I hope you're not here to cause trouble.
Be warned, age and frailty does not a harmless maiden make.
visitor
...You should hide.
We are under attack by the inquisition.
eupraxia
Are you? Then that means...
There truly is a rebellion, and it has arrived at my doorstep.
A force capable of staving off the inquisition itself...
Hmmm...
visitor
...?
eupraxia
Long ago, I resolved never to show my face before humanity again.
To that end, I retreated to the shadows of this ancient forest.
...But since I heard tell of your exploits, my resolve has been challenged.
I have resumed my training. Though I am hardly the warrior I once was, I would lend what mettle I have left to your cause.
Give me but a moment to retrieve my equipment.
They are relics as old as myself, but you may find we are still effective.
Let us change the fate of this wayward nation together.

If Wulfric or Tiresias is visiting

tiresias/
wulfric
Eupraxia!
eupraxia
(smiles) Oh, hello! It does my heart good to see you again.
tiresias/
wulfric
Likewise, my friend.
(frowns) ...Oh! But you should hide.
We are under attack by the inquisition.
eupraxia
Are you? Then that means...
There truly is a rebellion, and it has arrived at my doorstep.
A force capable of staving off the inquisition itself...
Hmmm...
tiresias/
wulfric
We are trying, at least. The situation is... rather dire at the moment.
Which is why you should hide without delay, Eupraxia!
eupraxia
On the contrary. I have spent enough time doing that.
Long ago, I resolved never to show my face before humanity again.
To that end, I retreated to the shadows of this ancient forest.
...But since I heard tell of your exploits, my resolve has been challenged.
I have resumed my training. Though I am hardly the warrior I once was,
I would lend what mettle I have left to your cause.
tiresias/
wulfric
Wait-- You can do battle, Eupraxia?!
eupraxia
Mm. Give me but a moment to retrieve my equipment.
They are relics as old as myself, but you may find we are still effective.
Let us change the fate of this wayward nation together.

(Eupraxia joins the battle as a General.)

Ruins

visitor
...Hmmm... Nothing...

(The visitor jumps.)

Whoa!

(Someone appears in a bright flash.)

Default

demeter
O traveler... I sense a righteous aura within your heart of hearts.
I shall confer my blessing upon you, in the form of a tool of war.
Which would you have?

If you visited the previous ruins

demeter
(smiles) I'm so glad to see you again.
Did you come this way because you knew I'd be here?
By now I imagine it doesn't come as a surprise to you.
You're so sweet. I'm so, so very lonely these days...
These little visits of yours fill me with so much joy.
It may not seem like much, but I'm genuinely grateful.

(frowns) But you can't win a war with gratitude, can you...
Let's get to the important part. What would you prefer?

choices
A sword of cutting gale!

A lance of ice!

An axe of thunder!

A bow of dark!

If you select a weapon you chose previously

demeter
You already took one of those before...
But I suppose there's nothing wrong with repetition.
demeter
(smiles) Keep on being awesome.

(The visitor receives either a Kestros, an Ice Lance, a Bolt Axe, or a Fell Bow depending on their answer.)

Ending

(Alastor suddenly retreats. His troops soon follow.)
kyra
I don't believe my eyes.
apate
Believe them. I see it as well.
They hurriedly retreat.
kyra
Why?
apate
Are you asking me?
kyra
...What the heck is...
I need more information. Everyone, gather together!
kyra
Pericles... You're still alive...
pericles
I am well aware that I am the last of us you would've liked to see, but...
kyra
Still, I...
(smiles) I'm so happy you're here, at least...
pericles
You will be happier when you hear the tidings I bring.
Oh, but I should introduce you to Fazang first.
(Fazang approaches.)
fazang
...Kyra, correct?
kyra
Hello...
pericles
Fazang is a Zhulite monk.
kyra
Isn't Zhu that eastern country Tartaros has been at war with?
fazang
Tartaros attacked us, and we protected ourselves.
I am part of an expedition into enemy territory.
kyra
We're on the opposite side from the Zhulite border...
Who would take an expedition this deep into enemy lines?
fazang
...Things did not go according to plan. We were separated.
Our retreat was blocked. We were forced to escape deeper into Tartaros.
Ever since, we have been moving from place to place, avoiding our pursuers.
Tartaros's activity in the area led us to seek out a more secluded place to hide.
We heard of an abandoned fort in this forest. We went searching for it.
kyra
Not so abandoned these days...
pericles
It was then that we ran into them. Just before our pursuers fell upon us.
I can still hardly believe it. It was a truly fortuitous encounter.
fazang
Except for the part where Jingyi almost loosed an arrow into your neck.
pericles
One of these days I need to pry this blasted crest off my chestplate...
kyra
Wait, wait, hold on... “We?”
Pericles, you... You weren't alone?
But the guy said they had my brother...
pericles
Regrettably, that is true. I can only apologize...
However, this does bring us to the good tidings I mentioned.
kyra
Y-You don't mean...?

Earlier...

elias
...You... You have to help him!
Please, I'll do anything you want!
Just help him, I beg you... Don't let him...!
edward
(eyes flutter open) Unnh... E-Eli...
Sandraudiga
My, what a pair of selfless heroes we got here.
Don't worry, boy. I'm not so cruel as to let him suffer.
No, I think I will put him out of his misery right now.
(Elias starts.)
elias
No!!
(As Sandraudiga prepares to land the killing blow, Pericles charges in from the north and strikes, interrupting her attack. He grabs Edward, but not before Sandraudiga grabs Elias and pulls him away.)
edward
(eyes drooping) Y-You... The heck are you... doing here?
I told you to ride ahead... Save yourself...!
pericles
I refuse. I will not sacrifice your life for my own.
I will not repay Kyra by letting her lose her entire family on this day!
edward
(closes eyes) Y-You arrogant knights... and your heroics...
Who said anythin' about sacrifice? I can... fend for myself...
pericles
That is your pride speaking, and you know it as well as I do.
Just be silent and let me indulge in my foolhardy melodrama.
elias
A-Ah!
sandraudiga
Actually, I think the melodrama is beginning to get tiresome.
One more step, Pericles. I dare you to take it.
pericles
Blast...
elias
...What are you doing?! Get him out of here!
He needs help! I'll be fine!
Get him help before he... before he...!
edward
(eyes flutter open) E...Eli...
pericles
Urgh...
(Pericles pulls Edward onto his horse and retreats.)
kyra
......
barlowe
He lives... Edward lives, Kyra!
kyra
Pericles, Fazang... I can't find the words...
pericles
Save them for Edward.
Every bit of the concern reflected on your face has been on his as well all this time.
fazang
He had more blood on his clothes than inside his body.
Even so, the fool wanted to turn on his heels and look for you.
kyra
Redbeard...
pericles
Fazang's comrades took him to their previous hideout.
To keep him from trying to sneak out, I set out to seek you out.
Fazang graciously insisted on accompanying me...
fazang
I will be upfront. We'd like to forge an alliance, if possible.
We are enemies of Tartaros, stuck behind enemy lines.
Enemies of Tartaros will have greater chances of survival by joining forces.
It is simple math.
kyra
Then I guess we also owe the inquisition's retreat to you...
fazang
My comrades said something about skulking around and shooting at their backs.
We are not many and are ill-fit to confront the inquisitorial army, but...
barlowe
The sudden appearance of a new, unknown foe would spook them.
Deeming it necessary to avoid a pincer attack, they spared us.

The irony in what I am about to say is not lost on me, but...
Kyra, this is a miracle bestowed upon us by the Mother herself.

kyra
I didn't know you were religious, Margrave.
barlowe
Mighty warriors with a mutual agenda... Our friends, alive and well...
If we do this correctly, we could turn this lucky break into momentum.
pericles
Momentum that will carry us all the way to Citadel Alétheia itself!
kyra
Where's that hideout you mentioned?
fazang
I shall lead you there. Are you ready?
kyra
Are you kidding me? Let's go before this all turns out to be a dream!
lorenzo
Madame Grand Inquisitor! How fares the battle?
sandraudiga
(scowling) Show's over, Lorenzo. We're going home.
lorenzo
...The rebels are dead?
sandraudiga
That's not our problem anymore.
It would seem we have been replaced, my dear Lorenzo...
(Lorenzo starts.)
lorenzo
By that blackheart Alastor?! Is that what he was doing here?
That is simply unconscionable! He must have lied!
sandraudiga
Indubitably, but his presence here bodes ill regardless.
He told me the hierophant is on his deathbed.
(Lorenzo balks.)
lorenzo
What?!
sandraudiga
That was my reaction as well.
If nothing else, I'm inclined to believe he was being truthful about that.
He is getting on in years, admittedly...
lorenzo
But... At this juncture? That's a disaster!
sandraudiga
It COULD be a disaster. It isn't one yet.
First of all, let us hasten back and find out more.
lorenzo
Understood!
Just one question... Er, what is to be done with the boy?
sandraudiga
(smiles) Did I not place you in charge of his safekeeping, Lorenzo?
I have not changed my orders, have I?
The boy journeys with us to Amnisos.
We could have use for him later down the line...
Make sure he does not go anywhere.
(Lorenzo salutes.)
lorenzo
Yes, Madame Grand Inquisitor!
(Sandraudiga leaves.)
lorenzo
......
elias
Sir...
lorenzo
You were listening to all of that, were you not? That was imprudent of you.
The Grand Inquisitor would have been angry at you had she discovered you...
elias
You're trying to kill my sister, and I can't do anything about it.
Can you really blame me for at least wanting to know what's going on?
lorenzo
...A-Aye, I suppose that's true, but...
My child, your sister refuses to see reason. We have tried, believe me.
We offered her both of your freedoms, and she refused!
She leaves us little choice, lad.
elias
......
lorenzo
...Well, whatever the case, it is out of our hands now, as you heard.
We will now return to the capital. Have you ever been there, boy?
elias
I have a name. It's Elias.
...No, never. I've always wanted to go, but...
Not like this.
lorenzo
Look at it as a silver lining, Elias!
The capital is a beautiful, ostentatious place.
There is no shortage of wonders to see there.
elias
Wonders I won't get to see, because I'm a prisoner.
lorenzo
...E-Er...

Character Descriptions

Fazang
A Zhulite monk accompanying an expeditionary force in Tartaros. A stoic, yet personable ascetic.

Sandraudiga
The Grand Inquisitor of Tartaros. A fearsome woman known as Heaven's Scythe.

Inquisitor
She who carries out the divine task of expunging heresy from this world.

Alastor
First colonel of the Tartaran holy army. A former mercenary who was handpicked by Grand Inquisitor Sandraudiga.

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