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Chapter 19: Before the Storm

Opening

barlowe
Let us go over the plan one more time.
Once we are through the forest, we will arrive at the Hydran gate.
They should still be unaware of our whereabouts, but it will not last.
That gate bars entry to the pass through the Parnassus range.
Only through there can an army of our size reach Amnisos.
Seizing the gate is the optimal usage of our element of surprise.

(smiles) ...In my opinion, of course.

xinyi
Agreed. Next, our opponents.
Who do you believe will stand to challenge us, Sir Pericles?
pericles
It appears Colonel Alastor has taken the lead on the matter of our eradication.
He's some wretch the Grand Inquisitor plucked from the gutter to serve her.
It was a controversial decision, but he quickly proved his mettle.
He is a talented commander and warrior, surrounded by trusted lieutenants.
Together, they form a truly fearsome unit. We must tread carefully.
xinyi
Hmm... The way I see it, he will have returned to the capital to await news.
His lieutenants will likely be posted at the Hydran gate, or the forts further in.
barlowe
I concur.
kyra
...And you lot got all this from looking at some maps for a couple hours.
xinyi
(smiles) Well, we do have a few more years of battlefield experience, Commander.
Give it some time and you'll be running laps around us.
kyra
I think I'd rather not be doing this for years to come.
I'll fight as long as I must to bring down Tartaros and get my brother back.
I'd rather not make a habit of this after that.
xinyi
(serious) Quite understandable, Commander. War is ugly business.
jingyi
(The commander looks confused! Did you explain properly, Xinyi?)
(Don't do anything to insult our companions now, you hear?)
xinyi
(If you want to explain, you can learn Tartaran.)
edward
Hey, if it helps, I'm totally lost myself.
kyra
(smiles) It's so good to have you back, Redbeard.
I needed someone who's more on my level.
edward
Anytime, lassie.
(Jingyi starts.)
jingyi
(Hold! Xinyi, did you hear that?)
xinyi
Hmm?
Jingyi says he heard something out of the ordinary.
kyra
What?
edward
...Dammit! An ambush!
(The group is surrounded by bandits led by Eudoxus.)
eudoxus
(smirks) Heh heh heh... Welcome, welcome!
Welcome... to the shadows of your perdition!
kyra
...Oh, no... Here we go...
edward
You think this one fancies himself a “necromancer” too?
kyra
I don't know, but another clown like that is the last thing we need right now.

If Polonius is present

polonius
Hey! I take issue being compared to this miserable runt!
I am way more handsome than he is, for one.
kyra
What are you even doing here? Go back to the rear!
polonius
Eeeheeheeheeheeheehee!
(Polonius leaves.)
edward
So, whaddya want?
eudoxus
(smirking) Deposit everything of value you possess in these here bags!
kyra
Ah. So you're a brigand these days.
Actually? I've changed my mind. This is good.
Mopping the floor with some cutthroats will be a nice change of pace.
edward
(smirks) Heh. You better run, mate. There's still time to keep your butts unkicked.
eudoxus
Fools, each and every last one of you fools!
My men number in the dozens, and not only that!
We have the famous Blood Demon in our midst!
(Eudoxus looms menacingly.)
eudoxus
It is YOU who is swiftly running out of time! Heh heh heh heh...
You, and that fool Hippalus, who thought he was so superior!
Who's laughing now, old fossil?! Who's laughing now?!
(Eudoxus steps back.)
eudoxus
Heh heh heh heh heh! Kill them all and loot their bodies!
(Eudoxus retreats to the back lines.)
barlowe
We really cannot afford such a distraction at this juncture.
pericles
Yet it sounded like another is already in peril at their hands...
barlowe
Indeed... I suppose we do have some time to spare for a righteous deed.
(smiles) How about it, Kyra? As I recall, bandit suppression is your area of expertise.
kyra
Let's knock these idiots silly.
edward
(grins) Now there's a tactic I can get behind!

Base Camp

Hestia & Tiresias

hestia
Tiresias and I have been hard at work these past few days.
tiresias
It's looking like things are going to escalate quickly now.
We are working overtime so we can keep up.
kyra
What have you mad geniuses been cooking up?
hestia
Well, it took a bit of effort, but we can make better light tomes for you now.
kyra
Already? That was faster than I'd have expected.
tiresias
The forbidden magics really aren't that complicated.
Who would've thought, huh? Reality is often disappointing.
hestia
Also, I'm upping my game with the regular gear.
I've gotten a lot better at my craft over the course of our adventure.
I can now make you all the steel weapons you want.
...As long as you provide money for the materials, as usual.
tiresias
She's told me a bit about the economic side of her business.
Goodness. Things are bad, Kyra.
hestia
I'm not a bargaining genius like some folks out there.
We could use more of those. They really help with the budget issues.
kyra
You're winning this war for us, you two.
tiresias
(smiles) Aww, please.
hestia
Don't mention it, girl.

Pericles

pericles
Kyra. I wish to speak.
kyra
What about?
pericles
I've been brought up to speed. About the knight, and...
kyra
I really would rather not talk about that, Pericles.
pericles
I know, but I want there to be no misunderstanding between us.
kyra
...Wait, you're worried I'm going to think you're also...?
C'mon, Pericles. Really? I trust you. You don't need to do this.
pericles
All the same, I wish to tell you everything. The reason I fight...
kyra
......
All right, Pericles. I'm listening.
pericles
(closes eyes) Sigh...
(opens eyes) You may have heard the manner of man I was years ago.
kyra
The rising star of the theocracy, I believe is the usual description.
pericles
I was a devout believer and a staunch supporter of our glorious nation.
I even had my eyes set on the title of Grand Inquisitor.
In hindsight, that would have just put a target on my back for Sandraudiga.
In sum, however, I was the model inquisitor. A paragon of knighthood.
kyra
Uh huh...
pericles
In all this, I did what any man seeking success in life should do. So I thought.
I married a wife to take care of my home, and had a child to carry on my legacy.
kyra
That's... an awfully selfish way to look at that kind of thing.
pericles
Isn't it? The moment Agari could walk, I stopped going home.
I fought the hierophant's wars, punished his enemies and climbed the ranks.
Until one day... My unit was to be deployed in the Kingdom of Zhu.
On the first night of our journey, we stopped at my wife's hometown.
I was from the capital, while she was from one of the nearby settlements.
I decided it would only be proper to stop by for a quick visit.
kyra
I'm guessing something really bad happened there...
pericles
I discovered that my wife was dying.
kyra
...Just like that, huh...
pericles
She had been sick for weeks. Gravely sick.
I tried to ask Agari for more details, but...
She merely looked at me with this terrible look of resentment.
Then she told me something I had forgotten... Nay.
Something I didn't care to remember. That day, it was her birthday.
kyra
Uh oh...
pericles
I sought Hestia's counsel. She was my best friend, after all.
But then, I... discovered something else. A secret. One Agari knew.
Because unlike myself, Hestia cared enough to visit my family in my stead.
...And this secret, it was one she had been too afraid to tell me...
kyra
......
What happened after that?
pericles
I spent the night with my wife. Then I was forced to depart.
It took five weeks to wrestle a leave of absence from my superiors.
By then, she had passed away and the funeral had already taken place.

It was then that I realized in full, what a horrible person I am.

kyra
You can't blame yourself for what happened to your wife.
pericles
I do not. I blame myself for not caring the least bit about her. About them.
I didn't know my wife, my daughter or my best friend. I only knew my ambitions.
How could I remain unabated in the face of such overwhelming evidence of my folly?
I gave my life to the Mother, and She gleefully took it from me.
kyra
......
pericles
This is why I fight the theocracy.
This... broken country, that strips its servants of their humanity.
But, more than that... I fight myself. I fight the fool I used to be.
I try to find purpose in my wretched life, while I still cling on to it.
kyra
......
You know... I'm pretty sure Agari and Hestia both forgave you long ago.
I think you're the only one who still hasn't forgiven you...
pericles
What right have I to do so?
No. I must forever carry this burden. Such is the cost of my mistakes.
kyra
Well... All I can tell you is that, as far as I'm concerned, this changes nothing.
You saved Redbeard's life. I don't know how I would've managed if I lost him.
I never met the old Pericles, but for the new one, I only have gratitude.
And... I don't think anyone'd celebrate if you didn't survive this war.
Keep that in mind next time your heart whispers poisoned words into your ear.
pericles
......
Thank you, Kyra. That means more than you know.

[Pericles gains 1 Strength.]

Xinyi & Jingyi

kyra
Forgive me for not introducing myself earlier, you two.
I'm Kyra. What are your names?
xinyi
I am Xinyi, lieutenant of the 5th Jade platoon.
Or what's left of it, at any rate.
kyra
I'm sorry about your troops...
xinyi
(smiles) Don't be. Zhulite warriors know how to be slippery.
Our men are scattered, but I suspect not dead.
Wherever they are, they will survive.
kyra
Oh... That's good to hear.
xinyi
(Jingyi, the commander has formally introduced herself.)
(She also apologizes for not doing so earlier.)
jingyi
(smiles) (Ahh, tell her that's perfectly fine!)
(I wouldn't have wanted to interrupt her happy reunion with her father.)
(Jingyi salutes.)
jingyi
(Lieutenant Jingyi, 6th Jade platoon, at your command!)
xinyi
Ahaha... Lieutenant Jingyi, at your command.
kyra
What else did he say that's so funny?
xinyi
(smiles) He said he didn't want to interrupt your reunion with your father.
kyra
My-- Wait, what?
xinyi
I won't lie, I also thought of that, the way he talked about you.
kyra
Redbeard talked about me?
xinyi
And nothing else as long as he was in our care.
kyra
...Huh.
Well, nevermind that. I'll let you settle in.
xinyi
(Anything else you'd like me to say to her, Jingyi?)
jingyi
(I like her hair!)
xinyi
Er... Jingyi likes your hair, Commander.
kyra
My... hair?
Huh. I've never bothered to do anything with it, though.
(smiles) Tell him thanks! I guess.
xinyi
(She says thanks.)
jingyi
(You're welcome, you're welcome!)

Barlowe & Edward

edward
(smiling) And then, and then, she said,
“Stop horsing around!”
barlowe
(smiles) Hahahaha! That's absolutely terrible, Edward!
kyra
Oh, no... Don't tell me you're telling THAT joke to the margrave.
I'd thank you if you didn't lose us one of our most important supporters.
edward
(frowns) Meh. Everyone's a critic...
barlowe
Oh, fret not, Kyra. I am unfazed by this.
I have heard far worse jokes from this man in the past.
edward
(smiles) Pfeh. You never did have a single funny bone in you.
...Say! I promised to tell you how Barlowe and me met, right?
kyra
Yeah, before... Well, everything fell apart.
edward
No time like the present! Hmm, where to start...
barlowe
At the beginning would be best.

Decades ago, I returned from the Tartaran frontlines, having made a name for myself.
For my deeds, a piece of Glamorgan soil was split and granted to me to rule over.

kyra
Didn't know they created Wrexham just for you.
barlowe
In retrospect, they likely did it so I would bear the brunt of Tartaros's reprisal.
But I was a younger man then. Foolish. Not unlike Zaccheus, Simeon and their ilk.
The mere promise of lands and people to lord over had me beaming with pride.
However, to me, it was but the first step in my rise to greatness unparalleled...
kyra
I won't lie, I have a hard time picturing you acting that way.
edward
You do now. Wasn't so hard back then.
kyra
So, what happened between then and now?
With age comes wisdom, is that it?
barlowe
Not exactly. Have you ever read the stories of Robin Cape, Kyra?
kyra
The righteous rogue? Yeah, the local library had some of those.
Reading's never been my strong suit, but I loved those as a kid.
I always wanted to be like her...
barlowe
Well, you're not the only one.
My soaring potential met a most vexing obstacle.
edward
(smirks) Me.
barlowe
Edward here led a small band of scoundrels at the time.
The “steal from the rich, give to the poor” type, straight out of a fable.
I never believed they truly existed, then one goes and picks me for a nemesis.
edward
We gave him no shortage of headaches...
Turned him into the laughingstock of Wrexham for a while, we did!
kyra
C'mon, don't try to pull my leg.
There's no way you actually stood a chance against the margrave.
edward
Hey! I may be no world-class tactician, but--
barlowe
No, you've the right of it, Kyra. Soon enough, I had him cornered.
But, uh... I was overconfident. I confronted him myself.
That... did not end so well. In a brawl, he was always my better.
I was forced to watch, from the ground, as he made his escape.
edward
(grins) You shoulda seen his face! He nearly bursted with rage!
kyra
That's a fun story, but uh...
I'm not seeing how that could've led to lifelong friendship.
barlowe
Hmmm... Oh, dear. Look at us, Edward.
Yapping away like the ancient relics that we are.
I do believe we have wasted enough of our leader's time.
edward
You speak for yourself! I feel as young as a wee parr!

...But yeah, sometimes I forget how busy you are these days, lassie.
Real sorry about that.

kyra
Oh, c'mon, really? Don't just stop in the middle of the story!
It's... rude. Improper? Keep going, dammit!
edward
(smiles) Don't worry, don't worry. We'll finish next time.
kyra
You better.
barlowe
(smiles) Hohoho... Never forget that patience is a virtue, my girl.

Jane & Conan

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
jane
Oh! Hello... I was just passing through...
conan
Margravine Delilah's right hand woman, are you not?
jane
Er, yep. That's me. Jane's the name.
conan
Your daily routine does not often bring you through the mess hall.
jane
O-Oh, well, I uh...
I don't like crowds, that's all.
conan
I understand.
jane
...Do I have something on my face?
conan
Yours is an impressive body.
Carefully sculpted with hard work and maintained dutifully.
Were you perhaps an arena fighter at one point?
jane
N-No... I don't know, is my strength really all that special?
I never thought much of it. I like working out, that's all.
(smiles) It's relaxing, and there's so many ways to do it, I never get bored!
conan
(smiles) Ahh, yes, exercise for the sake of it is one of life's small delights.
It is indeed quite satisfying, watching one's body improve.
Even at my age, I am proud to say my muscles have yet to fail me.
jane
I-I can see that. You look like you could lift me up with one hand...
conan
Bah. That is hardly the case, I assure you.
I may cling on to my prime yet, but miracles I cannot perform.
jane
(smiles) You're so polite and well-spoken. It's so pleasant, talking to you.
conan
Likewise, my girl, likewise.
This camp houses a wide variety of people, each with their own designs.
I appreciate meeting one of such a simple mind and pure intentions.
jane
(frowns) S-Simple and pure? Me? C'mon, give me a break...
I mean, sure, I'm not a brainiac like some of the folks around here.
Some mornings I forget to buckle up my boots.
But that just makes me dumb, not pure.
I can percolate some wickedness of my own on occasion.
(smiles) ...I read that word in a pamphlet the other day. Percolate.
I've been dying to use it somehow. I-I hope I did it right...
conan
(smiles) Hmm... Now you have piqued my curiosity.
Would you whisper one such wickedness to me?
(Jane leans forward conspiratorially.)
jane
...O-One time, at lunch... I stole someone else's dessert.
I worked out a mite too much that morning. I was famishing!
I felt so bad, the following morning I slipped my dessert into their pack.
...But then they caught me and thought I was trying to steal their dessert.
Trying to explain I was making up for stealing it the day before didn't help.
Boy, did I have to run fast that day...
(Conan guffaws.)
conan
Hohohohohahahahaha!
Ahh... Ahaha... Ahem... Hmph...
(Jane moves back.)
jane
D-D-Don't laugh at me! I told you this in confidence!
conan
Forgive me. It's just, this is exactly what I meant.
Please, take care out there. The world needs more people like you.
And less people like my former employer, that contemptible rat...
jane
Whoa... Which one was your guy, again?
conan
...It doesn't matter. I have a new chief now.
One I am proud to follow, for once.
jane
Yeah, Commander Kyra is really something, isn't she.

O-Oh, but I really should be going. I was in a hurry to... Uhh...

(Jane huffs.)
jane
Drat, now I forgot why I came here in the first place!
(Jane leaves.)
conan
(smiles) Hahaha...
Incredible how such a hulking mountain of a person can be so adorable.

[Jane and Conan gain C-rank support with each other.]

Jane & Dahl

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
jane
Oh! Hello... I was just passing through...
dahl
You're that margravine's retainer, are you not?
jane
Er, yep. That's me. Jane's the name.
dahl
It's nice to meet you. I don't see you around the mess hall often.
jane
O-Oh, well, I uh...
I don't like crowds, that's all.
dahl
Hmm...
jane
...Do I have something on my face?
dahl
A few scars, but that's not what I'm looking at.
You've a positively imposing physique.
With your strength, you could be a terror... But you're not.
You don't try to be. Why is that, I wonder?
jane
N-No... I don't know, is my strength really all that special?
I never thought much of it. I like working out, that's all.
(smiles) It's relaxing, and there's so many ways to do it, I never get bored!
dahl
You're saying you don't have your sights set... higher?
There's no ultimate goal for which you build up your power?
jane
(frowns) Uhh... No?
C'mon, look at me. Some mornings I forget to buckle up my boots.
I couldn't percolate a fancy plan like that if I tried.
(smiles) ...I read that word in a pamphlet the other day. Percolate.
I've been dying to use it somehow. I-I hope I did it right...
dahl
Huh. Often I do forget that not everyone has an agenda.
I'm so used to working with nobles and the like.
And, of course... I have never been one for resignation, myself.
jane
Well, what's your big plan, man?
dahl
(grins) I'm glad you asked! I've been working towards it for years.
One day... I will be margrave of one united Glamorgan!
jane
Oh, that's it?
(Dahl sputters.)
dahl
W-What do you mean, “that's it?”
jane
Well, I've heard that one before.
My mistress... That is, Margravine Delilah often fantasized about that.
It really got her going, too. She'd start cackling like mad every time...
Do you cackle madly when you imagine yourself as margrave?
dahl
No! That's... That's just asinine!
...Okay, maybe I do... cackle a little, but--
jane
(smiles) You're two peas in a pod. Maybe you should've been hers.
What was your guy like?
dahl
Small.
That's really the best way to describe him. Small.
jane
It's... not like you're that tall yourself.
(Dahl sputters.)
dahl
I-I don't mean it like that! I mean... I...
Oh, why am I still talking to you? Peon!
(Dahl leaves.)
jane
...Okay then? Bye to you too...
Drat, and now I forgot why I came here in the first place!
narrator
Support Lv... increased...?

[Jane and Dahl gain C-rank support with each other.]

Teresa & Zaccheus

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
zaccheus
(smiles) Oho... Oh my. What do we have here?
teresa
Er... I'm not sure I like the way you're looking at me.
Or the way you look, for that matter...
You look like the kind of guy who'll make all the predictable jokes.
zaccheus
(still smiling) I am amused, that is all.
Who are you? A camp follower?
teresa
No, actually, I'm a wyvern rider.
zaccheus
Ahah! And the comedy act continues! You, a warrior of the skies?
teresa
Ah, yes, here we go. Gee, how can the wyvern fly with me sitting on it?
Hardy har har. I've heard the whole repertoire.
You can save yourself the effort.
zaccheus
(frowns) ......
teresa
......
Sooo... You got anything else where that came from, or can you go?
I'd like to have dinner in peace.
zaccheus
(smirks) Hmph. Lowborn trash, entirely devoid of all manners.
Is this how you speak to one of higher birth?
It would behoove you to learn your place.
teresa
Okay, you know what?
I'm gonna go tell the commander to put you back in the storeroom.
(Zaccheus flinches.)
zaccheus
(frowns) Hold! Hold, you knave! Y-You can't do that!
teresa
And why not? If you're not gonna stop pestering me--
zaccheus
Pestering, me?!
I grant the pleasure - the honor! - of my company to you, and you would cast me to the dusty shadows of that hellish room anew?!
Baseborn mice do not often pique my interest! Be grateful!
teresa
...Hold on, what are you getting at?
zaccheus
(smiles) Hmph. That's more like it.
Trust me, many women would KILL for the chance to engage in idle chatter with me.
This is not an easily afforded opportunity. Try harder to grasp the immensity of--
(Teresa balks.)
teresa
(grins) Wait, wait, wait! Are you coming on to me?!
(Zaccheus sputters.)
zaccheus
I-I beg your pardon?! Did you just ask if I...? Why, I! I-I...
teresa
Ahahahaha! Oh, that'd be so cute if you weren't so disgusting.
Keep trying, loverboy. Slimy toads aren't my type.
zaccheus
Y...You would DARE reject me?! Margrave Zaccheus of Conwy?!
teresa
On the other hand, I do oughta thank you for one thing.
This is going to do wonders for my self-esteem.
Heck, even I can afford to have standards!
(scowls) And you don't meet them. Sorry, pal. Get lost.
(Teresa leaves.)
zaccheus
......

(Zaccheus pounds his fist.)

Gaah! This is so vexing!
Hmph... But a true noble never gives up!
I'll keep close on the battlefield and put my many talents to her aid.
She'll take notice and surely find herself falling for me promptly.
(smirks) Hahaha... Ahh, Zaccheus, you are just too good.

narrator
Support Lv... increased...?

[Zaccheus gains a one-sided B-rank support with Teresa.]

Teresa & Simeon

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
simeon
Ah, at long last. A servant.
Goodness gracious, where have you been?
teresa
......
Hold on, you're talking to me?
simeon
Who else? You ARE a servant, are you not?
teresa
What exactly gave you that impression?
simeon
I just saw you bringing food for everyone in this table.
teresa
Well... Yeah, I was going to get some for me anyway.
It's called basic courtesy, not that I expect you to know what that is.
simeon
Fascinating. Alas, your poor work ethic has more than earned a cavil.
I have notified that my clothes require cleaning, yet untouched they remain.
I am down to my last pair of undergarments! This is unacceptable!
teresa
I think there's some kind of misunderstanding here.
I clean my own bloomers, like everyone else does.
Where do you think you are? We aren't even a proper army.
(Simeon becomes agitated.)
simeon
Why, the audacity! This is simply too much!
It is not enough that I am forced on this journey,
but I am to live in such deplorable conditions?!
I demand proper service be provided for the troops!
teresa
I guess I'm not surprised. That ridiculous thing on your eye made it clear you're--
Wait, did you say the troops, plural?
simeon
Well, certainly! I am not an imbecile.
If I demand retainers for myself, I'll be laughed out of the room.
Or locked with the accursed supplies again... *Shudders*
The laymen may have privileges if it means I get them as well.
Apropos of nothing, “laymen” would include you.
teresa
(smiles) Heeey... You know what? You're right!
We deserve better! We deserve servants!
simeon
(smiles) That's right! Now you see my perspective!
Clean undergarments for all, today!
(Teresa pounds her fist.)
teresa
Yeah! I want food to be brought to ME at my table!
simeon
Hear, hear! Exotic bath salts for all that risk their lives on the field of battle!
Do we deserve any less?!
teresa
Nay, I say! Nay!
(The two begin causing a ruckus.)
kyra
Locking you with the supplies again, huh... Now there's an idea.
narrator
Support Lv... increased...?

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

Pluto & Órlaith

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
pluto
......
Órlaith
......
pluto
Never stand behind me, woman!
Órlaith
I'm not behind you.
pluto
......
My code of honor forbids me from harming women...
Órlaith
It's okay. You don't need to try to impress me.
We don't have to talk if you don't want to.
pluto
......
What?
Órlaith
I like the silence too.
pluto
......
Órlaith
(smiles) ......
pluto
...It's such a clear night.
I was... going to stargaze.
Would you like to...?
Órlaith
Sure. That sounds relaxing.
pluto
......
Órlaith
......
pluto
Look. That one's so bright...
Órlaith
(smiles) Wow, yeah. Pretty...
pluto
(smiles)......
Órlaith
......
(Órlaith starts.)
Órlaith
Oh! A shooting star! Make a wish, quick!
pluto
Huh? Ah, uh... Er...
Well, I... wish for some... chestnuts?
Órlaith
Pfft! You aren't supposed to say it out loud, silly.
pluto
...To be honest, I forgot the whole tradition.
Haha...ha...
Órlaith
So, uh... Do you just like chestnuts that much, or...?
pluto
W-Well... You caught me off-guard.
I saw your hair, so the first thing that came to mind was... chestnuts.
Órlaith
(smiles) Haha, well... I don't think we can get chestnuts here.
pluto
(smiles) ...T-That's fine...
Órlaith
......
pluto
......

[Pluto and Órlaith gain C-rank support with each other.]

Nikolaos & Delilah

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...

If Jane is alive

nikolaos
(grins) (Finally... She's alone. Took long enough...)
(Now's my chance. Hehehe...)
(Nikolaos approaches.)
nikolaos
Hey there!
delilah
(smirking) What do we have here... I do not believe you've had the pleasure.
nikolaos
Nikolaos is the name, m'lady. I'm a spear-for-hire.
At present, happily working for this bunch, but...
Well, one's got to look to the future, you know?
This war won't last forever, after all.
delilah
Ah, say no more. You wish to offer your services to me, come the end.
nikolaos
Got it in one!
I'm pretty good, if I do say so myself. You wouldn't regret hiring me.
delilah
Hmm... Let me ask you a few little questions, if you don't mind.
Tell me... Do you fly upon a pegasus?
nikolaos
(frowns) Huh? A pegasus?
delilah
Few are those trained in the art of flight upon those majestic beasts,
and the grand majority of them are in the service of Tartaros's inquisition.
But the concept of mercenary riders of pegasi is not entirely unheard of.
nikolaos
Er, well... That's not me, sorry. I don't fly.
delilah
Such a crying shame... Oh, but please, fret not.
Pegasus knights are a rare commodity. I never expected that much of you.
nikolaos
...What...?
delilah
(frowns) ...Still, it didn't hurt to ask. I really would like a pegasus knight.

If Nicaea is alive

delilah
I tried introducing myself to that one we have, with the silver locks...
Not only did she not reply, she directed the most hate-filled glare at me!
For no reason! I did nothing to offend her! I merely wished to converse!
And perhaps make an offer to her... No sense of opportunity, that one.
Alas. Some people, eh?
nikolaos
R-Right... Well, I've got other talents to offer.
delilah
(smiles) Do you ride a horse into battle, perchance?
nikolaos
Nope! I tried sitting on one once. Didn't end well.
Honestly, best to just stray from the topic of animals entirely...
delilah
How magically inclined are you?
nikolaos
Well, there was this one time I found a fire tome on the side of the road.
...I haven't been able to grow a beard ever since, but with more practice...
delilah
Hunting? First aid? Commanding abilities? Musical talent?
nikolaos
......
I'm pretty good with a lance?
delilah
Ahahaha... I'm sure you are.
Thank you for the diversion. Truly.
I was starting to grow bored, all alone here awaiting Jane's return.
Please, take this as a token of my... appreciation.
Don't spend it all in one place, and do try to hold your excitement.
(Nikolaos balks.)
nikolaos
Wha-- You stingy skinflint! A single coin?!
It would have been less insulting to give me nothing!
delilah
That's the idea, sweetie.
nikolaos
Bah! Fine! Who cares? I didn't wanna work for you anyway!
And another thing! Where do you get off belittling me?
As if that giant oaf who follows you around like a lapdog is any better.
Was she just the cheapest option available or what?
delilah
(scowls) ......
I think you had better take your leave now, boy.
nikolaos
Huh...?
delilah
Are your ears full of wax? Leave before you get hurt.
(Nikolaos starts.)
nikolaos
Ack! What'd I do?!
(Delilah approaches menacingly.)
nikolaos
O-Okay, okay! I'm going, I'm going!
Sheesh... Some people indeed...
(Nikolaos leaves.)
delilah
...Hmph... Filthy troglodyte. How dare you denigrate my...
(eyes droop) ......

If Jane is dead

nikolaos
(grins) (All right, Nikolaos. This is your chance...)
(Just turn on the charm, and you've got this in the bag.)
(Nikolaos approaches.)
nikolaos
Hey there!
delilah
(frowning) ......
Ah... I do not believe you've had the pleasure.
nikolaos
Nikolaos is the name, m'lady. I'm a spear-for-hire.
At present, happily working for this bunch, but...
Well, one's got to look to the future, you know?
This war won't last forever, after all.
delilah
I see... You wish to offer your services to me.
nikolaos
Got it in one!
I'm pretty good, if I do say so myself. You wouldn't regret hiring me.
delilah
......
I'll pass, thank you.
(Nikolaos balks.)
nikolaos
Wha-- Are you kidding me? Just like that?! Why?!
C'mon! I know you have a... vacancy? An opening?
A noblewoman like yourself needs protection, and--
delilah
And I recently lost my personal bodyguard...
nikolaos
(smiles) So... Hire me to replace her!
delilah
......
nikolaos
(frowns) ...?
delilah
You? Replace her?
(smiles cruelly) Hah! Don't make me laugh!
You, some talentless, unsightly, carrion-eating man...
You could hardly stand next to her, let alone “replace” her.
nikolaos
But... But... How would you know that?! You haven't even given me a chance!
At least ask me what I'm good at! What I've got to offer!
I'm, er... I'm pretty good with a spear! She was a swordswoman, right?
Lances beat swords! Everyone knows that!
delilah
(scowls) You continue to prattle on, making no motion to leave...
Perhaps I shall try paying you off. That usually works on your kind.
Here. Help yourself. Now get out of my sight.
(Nikolaos balks.)
nikolaos
Wha-- You stingy skinflint! A single coin?!
It would have been less insulting to give me nothing!
delilah
I have given you exactly what you deserve, if not more.
nikolaos
Bah! Fine! Who cares? I didn't wanna work for you anyway!
You can keep going around without protection all you like!
Don't come crying to me when you get robbed, though!
delilah
I can defend myself.
nikolaos
Bah! Actually? I know what your problem is.
delilah
I do not believe that you do, as a matter of fact.
nikolaos
Well, it's downright obvious.
delilah
...Is it...?
nikolaos
You're mad that you paid for that big gal and then she got herself killed!
'Cause that's all you noble types care about. Money!
Hey, don't let me ruin your pity party. Go ahead, keep at it!
You can mourn the loss of your gold the rest of your life, for all I care.
(Nikolaos storms off.)
delilah
......
You have no clue what it is that I have lost, boy.
And... Neither did I, until it was much too late...
(closes eyes) ...Sigh...

Laertes

laertes
(smiles) You are quite the miracle worker, huh, Commander?
I made the right decision in placing my bets on you.
kyra
Uh huh... Been a pleasure to work with you too. I think.
laertes
(serious) Despite my age, I am not the kind that enjoys boring others with long stories.
On the contrary, I try to be succinct where I can.
I appreciate that, as we near total war with Tartaros, your time is limited.
To that end...
kyra
This feels rather foreboding...
laertes
(smiles) I have received word from my sweet granddaughter.
She's so caring... She worries so for her grandfather.
She spent more of the letter wishing me well than telling me how she's been!
(frowns) But then, near the end of the missive, she wrote some concerning news.
kyra
Oh, yeah?
laertes
She lost all of her schoolbooks.
Some rotten bully threw them into the river...!
She's such a brilliant student, so this has left her heartbroken.
But these books, they're so expensive... Oh, it's criminal, I tell you!
kyra
...So now you want me to pay for your granddaughter's books.
laertes
I do not believe I ever ask for much... And I'm doing my very best for you...
Please, I feel terrible imposing on you like this.
But my feelings are irrelevant compared to my granddaughter's wellbeing.
kyra
Sigh... How much?
laertes
1,950 gold would suffice to cover her expenses.
kyra
Upping the number, are we. Well, I...

If you agree

kyra
All right. Help yourself.
laertes
(smiles) You are an angel, Commander Kyra.
The Mother herself would be envious of your virtue.
I should introduce you to her. You would be a great role model for her.
Oh, naturally I mean my granddaughter, not the Mother, haha.
I know she would be all over the moon to make a friend such as you!
A hero akin to those from the tales - nay, better still! A hero unparalleled!
The pride of your nation! The joy of your people!
kyra
Yeah, yeah... What happened to being succinct?
laertes
Do forgive me. I lose myself when I am filled with glee.
May your enemies rue the day they chose to oppose you!

[All of Laertes' stats increase by 2.]

If you refuse

kyra
No can do, sorry.
As you said yourself, we are close to a full-blown conflict with Tartaros.
Every coin we have needs to be spent on gear and resources.
laertes
Mm... Forgive me, Commander. I was foolish to ask.
Ooo, I shall have to write my sister... A fate worse than death.
Not to fret, however. I will survive, and continue to serve loyally.
As much as my old, tired bones allow me... Oough... Oof...
kyra
...Fine.

Pheme

kyra
Pheme...
pheme
Hi, Kyra.
kyra
......
pheme
Do I... have something on my face?
kyra
N-No, it's just... I don't know where to start.
How are you holding up, Pheme?
I hope you had time to heal up properly...
pheme
Just about. I was lucky, if anything. The day I woke up was when...
Well. Everything happened.
Then I got separated from the others when we escaped to the forest...
It's a miracle the inquisition didn't catch me, honestly.
kyra
Mm...
I guess you've fully recovered, then?
pheme
My head hurts sometimes. I just get really dizzy...
There's this really annoying ringing in my ears all the time...
And I think I get tired easier than before.
I mean, during combat it's more or less fine,
but after I just want to lie down and sleep for a decade.
I talked to Lady Apate earlier. She said it's all normal.
It might get better with time. Or it might not.
She advised I be grateful I did not die in my sleep.
kyra
...Pheme, I...
pheme
While we're getting all the ugly topics out of the way...
I guess I'll just ask. Kyra... Did my brother escape Percote?
kyra
...!
O-Oh, no... He...
Pheme, I'm... I'm so sorry. I--
pheme
I don't want your apologies. I just wanted to know.
Well... I'll leave you to it. You must be super busy.
kyra
Just like that?
Pheme, are you sure you're okay?
pheme
I don't know if I'll ever be “okay” again.
kyra
......
pheme
...But, one thing at a time. First, we have a fight to finish.
kyra
Pheme, you... Don't you think you've suffered enough?
If you don't want to keep doing this, you can--
pheme
There you go again, trying to coddle me like always.
If you had coddled me before, Kyra... I would be dead.
Burned to death along with my brother in Percote,
or murdered by Soter because I lacked the strength to fight back.
kyra
...!
pheme
...Look, this isn't going anywhere. Let's stop for now, all right?
But... For what it's worth, Kyra... I'm still glad to be your friend.
So please... I hate to see that guilty look in your face...
kyra
......

Battle Start

(A merchant is surrounded by bandits deeper in the woods, with only a single warrior for protection.)
jason
Well, they're out for blood, that's for sure.
hippalus
D-Don't leave me, Jason! They'll tear me to pieces!
jason
What even is the deal with the guy? He seemed to know you...
hippalus
We studied in the capital's guild of merchants together.
Last I heard, Eudoxus fell for a trick and was stripped of his savings.
He had always been envious of me... And now he's gone mad, too!
jason
Envious? Of a sad sack of bones like you?
...Sorry I said that. Look, just stay where you are.
They'll find it difficult to topple me.
Although...
hippalus
W-What?
jason
Technically speaking, my contract expired a little while ago.
(Hippalus panics.)
hippalus
No...!
jason
Don't worry. I won't leave you. I'm not that rotten.
(smiles) ...Just, when we reach the next village and part ways,
remember that I worked overtime to keep your head atop your shoulders.
hippalus
If you keep me alive that long, I'll double your payment!
jason
Heh. As if you've any reason to doubt me.

Enemy Turn 2

ruffian 1
Gaaah... We ain't gonna sleep tonight either?
Night after night chasin' travelers on the orders of some decrepit fossil...
My life's not gone as well as I woulda liked, I tell ya.
ruffian 2
You can say that again.
ruffian 1
...Hey! How come we haven't checked out that little house there yet, anyway?
Doesn't look like much, but maybe there's some old stuff lying around we can sell!
ruffian 2
It ain't abandoned, you moron!
ruffian 1
(smiles) So what? We're in the middle of the forest!
Whoever it is that lives in there, no one'll hear 'em scream...
(The other ruffian becomes agitated.)
ruffian 2
Use yer brain! Don't you think we woulda done it already, if we could?
We did try, but... Y-You don't know whose nest that shack is...
It's a witch! A powerful, wicked witch, hat and all!
ruffian 1
(scowls) I ain't scared of no witch... Hat or no hat!
ruffian 2
Well, you should be! She can set you on fire with a flick of her finger!
(The other ruffian squirms.)
ruffian 1
R-Really...? Just one flick? Not even two or anythin'?
ruffian 2
Most you'll do is get some ashes on the hat. Wanna test yer luck?
ruffian 1
......
You know what? Maybe chasing the travelers ain't so bad after all.
ruffian 2
Yeah, yeah. Just sit tight, will ya? They might come this way...

Enemy Turn 13

eudoxus
(smirks) You are as slow as a tortoise with its hind legs broken!
Clearly this operation will require a more delicate touch...
Heh heh heh... I do believe I shall join the fray!
(Eudoxus begins approaching the heroes.)

Conversations

Kyra & Jason

jason
(smiles) Boy, are you a sight for sore eyes.
Thanks a bunch for the rescue.
(Hippalus starts.)
hippalus
...!
kyra
......
(Hippalus hides.)
jason
(frowns) ...?
Er, well, whatever. You lot are mercs?
kyra
I guess rebels is what they call us now.
jason
Ohh, you're those guys... You're causing quite the stir.
(smiles) The kind that makes you very interesting to folks like me.
Wanna hear my rates?
kyra
Aren't you working for the old guy?
jason
Actually, this was my last night on his payroll.
If you want, I can switch to a new contract right now.
Since you've gotten us out of a pinch, I'll give you a discount.
kyra
A discount?
jason
Mmhmm. Because it's you, it'll run you 4,000 gold, upfront.
(Kyra balks.)
kyra
What?! That's a robbery!
jason
(serious) No, a robbery is what nearly happened to us.
And what might happen to you, if you refuse help when it's offered.
Trust me, I'm handy to have around. You want my help or not?

If you accept

jason
(smiles) Fantastic. Let me see... Yep, it's all there.
Name's Jason. I'm yours, long as you need me.
kyra
What, you aren't going to try to wring a monthly payment out of me?
jason
Nah. I can tell it'll be better to think of you folks as a...
long-term investment, shall we say.
What I'm trying to say is, I'm gonna stick with you, see what happens.
kyra
Uh huh. Whatever you say. Knock yourself out.
jason
I think I'll knock our enemies out, actually.

If you refuse

kyra
I don't think we can spare the money.
jason
Pity that. Well, I'm not moving from here until things are calm, so...
If you change your mind, just double back and let me know.

If you talk again after refusing

jason
(smiles) I knew you'd change your mind.
kyra
Not so fast. I haven't decided yet.
jason
(frowns) Are you always this indecisive?
kyra
With your prices? It's not indecisiveness, it's caution.
jason
Of course. So? Are we in business?
Price stands. 4,000 gold, no more, no less.

Glaucus & Jason

glaucus
Pops!
hippalus
G-Glaucus...!
glaucus
Sheesh, Pops. I thought you knew better than to travel at night.
hippalus
I am running behind schedule. I thought to regain lost time...
But that is no reason to risk my life. Forgive me, Glaucus.
glaucus
(smiles) Well, just glad you're okay. And hey, we got to see each other!
Thanks for keeping my pops safe, man.
jason
(smiles) Thanks to you for the rescue! You came in just in time.
You lot are mercs?
glaucus
Rebels seems to be the popular name these days.
jason
(serious) Ohh, you're those guys... You're causing quite the stir.
(smiles) The kind that makes you very interesting to folks like me.
Wanna hear my rates?
glaucus
Wait, aren't you working for Pops?
jason
Actually, this was my last night on his payroll.
If you want, I can switch to a new contract right now.
Since you've gotten us out of a pinch, I'll give you a discount.
glaucus
Aha?
jason
Because it's you, it'll run you 4,000 gold, upfront.
glaucus
You're not seriously expecting anyone to pay that, right?
jason
Well, your pops did, and look how it paid off for him!
hippalus
Jason... Listen to me.
I don't have enough money on me to cover their fee, but...
I would at least pay a portion with what I have.
Just, please... Lend my son and his friends your aid.
glaucus
Pops...
jason
Well, for the record, I don't care where the money comes from.
He wants to contribute, it's his business. So what, we got a deal?

If you accept

jason
(smiles) Fantastic. Let me see... Yep, it's all there.
Name's Jason. I'm yours, long as you need me.
glaucus
Save the pleasantries for the commander. You'll have to discuss the details with her.
jason
That right? You sure she'll be okay with you hiring me off her funds?
glaucus
...Just get moving, would you? Knock a few heads together.
Make her feel like she would've hired you herself anyway.
jason
Heh... You're making a risky gambit, mate. But it's perfectly fine by me.
No worries. Your trust in me is well placed.

If you refuse

glaucus
I'm, uh, not really authorized to do this kind of thing...
jason
Pity that. Well, I'm not moving from here until things are calm, so...
If you change your mind, just double back and let me know.
Although, you should probably come yourself.
I doubt your pops will want to pay his part if it's not you.
glaucus
Yeah, yeah, I'll keep that in mind.

If you talk again after refusing

jason
(smiles) I knew you'd change your mind.
glaucus
Dude, I don't have the rank to spend our war funds.
I have to be careful.
jason
(frowns) So why are we talking, then? Send your boss over.
glaucus
Pops's help with the fee would be nice. I've no time to explain things to her.
Look, just give me a second to think, okay?
jason
Of course. So? Are we in business?
You'd have to contribute 2,500 gold, no more, no less.

Plato

Combat

plato
(smiling) Hahahahahahahaha!

Combat w/ Pluto

plato
(smiling) Hey, bro! Fancy seeing you here!
But what're you doing? You're supposed to talk to me, man!
C'mon, what're you waiting for? Talk to bro, bro!
pluto
...Urgh...

Death

plato
Ohh, poppycock...

Pluto & Plato

plato
(smiling) ...Ayyyyyyy, my brother!
(Pluto starts.)
pluto
...!
Plato... Blood Demon!
Today is the day we duel to prove which of us is better!
plato
Aww, you're still on about that? 'Aight, let's go!
Give me your best shot, lil' bro!
pluto
My arrow will deliver truth and justice!
(Pluto misses.)
plato
...Well, your aim could still use some work, but that's not too bad!
You nearly hit me that time! Attaboy, Pluto!
pluto
...Hngh... Stop patronizing me, you jerkwad!
plato
I'm not patronizing you! I really am proud of you!
Ohh, are these your pals? Nice going, Pluto!
Got yourself a big ol' band of friends, didja?
That's my Pluto! Working on his social abilities!
Found yourself a girlfriend yet? Boyfriend? Hmm?
pluto
......
plato
Ah, too much, isn't it? So sorry.
Welp! Let's go.
(Pluto starts.)
pluto
Wait-- Go where?! We're supposed to fight!
plato
No, we're supposed to fight TOGETHER! We're brothers!
I'm sure your boss won't say no to a free blade.
Especially now that we're together and I get to use...
My special ability, Blood Bounty! Aww yeah!
I'm psyched for some quality sibling time with ya, Ploo!
(Plato runs off.)
pluto
...It's not fair... My name is not Ploo!
Take me seriously, dammit!
(Pluto stamps in frustration.)
pluto
PLAAAAAAAAAAAATOOOOOOOOOO!!

Plato learns the following ability:

Blood Bounty
2x growth rates, but 1/2 exp gain.

Eudoxus

Combat

eudoxus
(smiles) Heh heh heh... Hand over everything you have!
And then prepare to die. I cannot leave witnesses.

Combat w/ Vasiliki

eudoxus
You dare point your weapon at your former benefactor?!
For shame, young girl! For shame!
vasiliki
My family and I are poor too, but we never resorted to this!
You have no excuse! You're a horrible person!
eudoxus
And you're a horrible mercenary, but I still gave you a chance!
No matter. I'll wipe you off the face of the earth,
and take what little you possess for myself!
vasiliki
F-Face me if you dare!

Combat w/ Scymerius

eudoxus
Ah! N-No...!
Wait, wait! We can strike a deal!
S-Stay your spear, Praxis! I beg you!
scymerius
This is rather convenient.
It always irked me, how much you managed to dig up on me.
You may be an awful merchant, but you're a fine investigator.
eudoxus
(smiles) Hmph! One can also deal in secrets, my friend.
And yours are very valuable...
scymerius
Quite true. And now you'll take them to the grave.

Combat w/ Fructuoso

eudoxus
Oh, you're here as well, you pitiful eyesore...
You have nothing I could possibly take!
Fighting you is a complete waste of time!
fructuoso
I may have little in the way of material possessions,
but I have something you will never have.
eudoxus
Oh? And what would that be, hmm?
fructuoso
An earnest desire to change for the better.
eudoxus
(smirks) Hehehe! Now that's a laugh!
You're scum! Your kind cannot change!
You'll be a rotten scoundrel 'til the day you die!
fructuoso
...Same goes to you.

Combat w/ Polonius

polonius
I still don't see the resemblance.
I'm nothing like you, lowly, vulgar worm!
eudoxus
I'll watch you bleed for your insults!
(smirks) Heh heh heh heh...
polonius
(grins) Eeheeheeheeheehee!

Combat w/ Begoña

eudoxus
You look poorer than dirt! I have no interest in you!
I'll kill you quickly and move on to the real prizes!
Begoña
So this is what a real brigand looks like...
eudoxus
B-B-Brigand?! You're the brigand!
I am the great merchant, Eudoxus!
And after I loot your and Hippalus's corpses, I will be back in business for good!
Begoña
You do know you don't need to kill to steal, right?
eudoxus
(smiles) Why risk it? You've seen my face.
I can't have this coming back to haunt me.
Nothing personal, of course. Heh heh heh...
Begoña
Meanwhile we felt bad when Fango got carried away...

(smiles) ...Thanks. Seriously.
You make me think we were never so bad after all.
(scowls) Now it's time for your just punishment!

Combat w/ Glaucus

eudoxus
(smiles) Heheh... Goodness, such stench!
I smell... degenerate gambler!
You probably have naught but lint in your pockets,
so I shall have to kill you and leave it at that!
glaucus
I sure hope you're having fun, Eudoxus.
I endured you when all you did was insult him.
But now you're trying to kill my father.
That, I cannot overlook.
Hope you bought a coffin while you still could,
because I sure as heck won't get one for you.
eudoxus
(scowls) Worthless little...
I'll bring your head to the old dotard, and I'll use it to bash HIS head in!

Combat w/ Laertes

eudoxus
(smiles) Heh heh... If it isn't Laertes.
What a surprise it is to meet you like this.
laertes
(smiles) Eudoxus. Bit off more than you could chew this time?
eudoxus
Ah, it was but a minor bump in the road.
The great merchant Eudoxus will bounce back soon enough!
laertes
By hiding in the woods and mugging travelers?
You do know where these methods will land you, yes?
A cell - If they let you live long enough to get there, that is.
eudoxus
Pah. That's only if I let myself get caught.
It will never happen, I promise you that!
laertes
Tsk, tsk... Such lack of prudence.
Truly, you disappoint me, Eudoxus.
There are lines nobody should cross.
eudoxus
(scowls) That's rich, coming from you!
Who do you presume you are to lecture me, Laertes?!
laertes
Ah, well... Just a humble librarian,
looking out for his dear granddaughter.
Does that satisfy you?
eudoxus
You dastard!

Combat w/ Plato

eudoxus
You dare plunge a dagger into my back, Blood Demon!
plato
(smiles) Money can't buy brotherly love.
eudoxus
(grins) Mayhap, but it'll buy new mercenaries.
Just as soon as I get rid of the treacherous old ones!

Death

eudoxus
But... N-No... I cannot die like this...
I cannot die... in squalor...

Hippalus Death

hippalus
I don't... want to die... P-Please...

Locations

Coronis' House

coronis
Hello... It is rather late for a stroll in the forest, is it not?
Ah, well, it matters not. Care for something to drink?
Oh, you just wanted to warn me of the ruffians?
(smiles) Thank you, but I assure you, I am capable of defending myself.
Still, a kind deed is a kind deed. Allow me to reward it in kind...
Hehehehe...
With a test of your mental acuity!

I have a friend, you see. His name escapes me...
He does not fly, but neither does he walk.
He means well, but he's too loose-tongued to keep a secret,
and I wouldn't recommend shaking his hand. Sometimes he is harmless,
but other times he kills with only a touch.
What is my friend's name?

options

Rabbit!

Grasshopper!

Frog!

Snake!

Shark!

Uh... Robert?

If you answer correctly (Frog)

coronis
(smiles) Correct! Hahaha... You have my regards!

Ahh, do forgive me. There is nothing I enjoy as much as a good riddle.
(serious) Speaking of riddles... I believe I may have figured yours out.
You're those brave folks rising up in revolt, are you not?
The inquisition is trying to keep the news from spreading... and failing.
Incidentally, I don't like them very much. And the feeling is mutual, I assure you.
You have my full support - and the aid of my spells, if you want it.
(smiles) Oh, but before we go... Since you answered correctly,
a small reward, from me to you. Ohh, go ahead, don't be shy.
I have more money than I know what to do with. Please, take it!

(She gives the visitor 1500 gold.)

If you answer incorrectly

coronis
Hmm... I fear that is incorrect.

(smiles) Ahh, do forgive me. There is nothing I enjoy as much as a good riddle.
(serious) Speaking of riddles... I believe I may have figured yours out.
You're those brave folks rising up in revolt, are you not?
The inquisition is trying to keep the news from spreading... and failing.
Incidentally, I don't like them very much. And the feeling is mutual, I assure you.
You have my full support - and the aid of my spells, if you want it.
(smiles) ...What? Of course I'm going to join up even though your answer was wrong!
The riddle was just a bit of fun. Don't concern yourself with it.
(serious) ...No, I won't tell you the answer. You have to figure it out yourself.

Ending

pericles
I pray you are unscathed, goodman.
hippalus
......
kyra
......
edward
Er, Kyra? Something the matter?
hippalus
...I... I-I'm sorry.
I'm so sorry... I...
kyra
Don't.
Let's go, everyone. We're done here.
hippalus
Wait...
kyra
What now?
hippalus
The rebellion everyone is talking about...
It's you, isn't it?
kyra
And what if it is?
hippalus
I-I guess you intend on bringing down the hierophant...
edward
Well, yeah, that's the idea.
We're not on a death march to Amnisos for fun, y'know?
hippalus
...You might not need to do anything, in fact.
The hierophant is gravely ill.
apate
What?!
hippalus
I can tell you with confidence. I trust my sources.
They say that's why they rushed to sue for peace with Zhu.
He's trying to settle all of his affairs, before he passes...
The scion and the consort are preparing for the succession.
It all indicates he will be gone within months, if not weeks.
kyra
...Interesting bits of information. Thank you.
hippalus
I... I-It's the least I could do for you...
kyra
You know the way to the next town, right?
Don't linger here. You don't want to be beset by more ruffians.
hippalus
......
F-Forgive me...
kyra
...I forgive you.
hippalus
...!
kyra
I can tell how heavy it weighs on you, even after all this time...
hippalus
(smiles) You have a heart of gold. Thank you.
I hope the Mother's mercy is upon you, wherever you go...

(Hippalus leaves.)

If Xinyi and Jingyi are alive

kyra
You two heard all of that, right?
xinyi
I was just finished bringing Jingyi up to speed.
kyra
Well... I guess this is goodbye, then.
xinyi
And why would that be?
kyra
Well, he just told us the war with Zhu is over.
jingyi
(She's wondering if we'll leave, right?)
(Please, tell her this.)
xinyi
......
kyra
You don't need to whisper. I wouldn't understand a word.
xinyi
(smiles) You better learn how to say “sorry,” though. You have offended Jingyi!
And myself, at that! How dare you question our loyalty?!
(Kyra starts.)
kyra
W-What?!
jingyi
Hah hah hah hah hah!
(Oh, I'm so sorry... But I just couldn't resist!)
(Look at her face, Xinyi!)
xinyi
(Very droll, Jingyi.)

What Jingyi means with this cruel little jest is that we're not going anywhere.
We gave our word we would aid you, and aid you we shall.
Moreover, we have made efforts to stay informed while in Tartaros.
We already knew of the truce before we met.

kyra
But then, why...?
xinyi
(serious) Zhu has abandoned us.
They could've mentioned us during the peace talks. Try to recover us.
But why do that, when they can just let loose ends fizzle out by themselves?
The Kingdom of Zhu sees no value in those who suffer defeat...
kyra
I see...
Well, I'm just glad to know you'll stick with us.
Tell Jingyi I'm glad he had a good chuckle at my expense, too.
xinyi
(smiles) (The commander says she's glad you had a good laugh at her expense.)
jingyi
Hah hah hah! (Tell her I'm really sorry!)
(serious) (...Seriously, please, tell her. I feel terrible...)
xinyi
(Oh, Jingyi...)
edward
What was the deal between you and the merchant, Kyra?
kyra
I'll tell you some other time.
So... What do you all make of this?
pericles
It is the best piece of news we have received in a long, long time!
barlowe
That depends on what manner of person his successor is.
Do you know the current scion of Tartaros, Sir Pericles?
pericles
I had the honor of meeting the scion only twice.
Dolus V is a young man of great potential and inner fortitude.
I believe he could be a far better leader than his father.
Consort Thyone, too, is a kind and gentle woman.
Perhaps they could lead this country to a brighter era...
barlowe
Which would remove the need for a bloody revolution.
Hmmm... And yet, I wonder. Is such a painless conclusion truly possible?
edward
Yeah, I dunno. What if the kid becomes power-mad or something?
Maybe we should just get rid of the whole system and be done with it.
pericles
Well, we could...

...Huh? Lady Apate! Are you all right?!

apate
....No... No, no, not now... Not when we're so close...!
kyra
Apate, is it really so important to you that we kill the hierophant ourselves?
From the sound of it, even if we keep going, we might not make it in time.
I think you're going to have to settle for the knowledge that he's gone.
apate
You do not understand. None of you do.
This development is catastrophic. It is... It's a disaster! It's terrible!
edward
But Pericles just said the scion--
apate
The scion and the consort both are in grave, imminent danger.
(Pericles starts.)
pericles
What?!
edward
Even you'll agree that's a bold claim to make outta the blue!
Mind explaining or are you just gonna clam up like you always do?
apate
He's going to kill them both. And who knows who else.
We need to bring him down before he can do that!
(Kyra balks.)
kyra
Wha-- Wait, you mean the hierophant?!
On what grounds do you say such an insane thing?!
apate
I'll reveal more details on the way. Now we have to move, and fast.
If we do not, we will lose our only window of opportunity!
And then he will plunge this realm into darkness once more...!
(Apate leaves.)
pericles
L-Lady Apate, wait!
Goodness, I did not think her capable of such celerity, at her age!
edward
Er, Kyra...? I won't lie to ya, I'm really worried now.
That was a face I never thought I'd see her make.
barlowe
It was an expression of pure, unbridled horror...
kyra
......
Fine. Let's go. I'm sorry for everyone, but we're not sleeping tonight.
(Kyra leaves.)
pericles
Ergh...
barlowe
(closes eyes) Sigh... So much for good news...

If Glaucus is present

glaucus
Hey, Pops...
hippalus
Glaucus, you have no idea how relieved I am to see you.
I feared the worst. Why didn't you at least write, boy?
glaucus
I... I was afraid they'd... come after you, too.
hippalus
I would've been fine with that, if it meant knowing you were safe.
glaucus
P-Pops... Bah. You shouldn't have worried. I'm not worth it.
If only I hadn't been such a moron... I gambled everything I had away...
hippalus
I may not be proud of everything you have ever done, but...
I have made many mistakes of my own, Glaucus. You know that.
glaucus
......
Say, Pops... Is she...
hippalus
(closes eyes) ...Yes...
glaucus
Funny how life turns out sometimes, huh.
hippalus
Glaucus... That woman is as kind as an angel.
There is nothing I can do for her, but you...
glaucus
No need to ask, Pops.
That's what I'm already doing, and it's what I'll keep doing.
hippalus
Thank you, Glaucus...
May the Mother keep you safe, my boy.
glaucus
You too, Pops.

Citadel Alétheia

dolus v
Psst! Elias!
(Dolus V moves closer.)
dolus v
Elias! Wake up!
...Elias? Are you...? Elias!
Oh, what am I doing...
(Elias stirs.)
elias
Nngh... O-Oh...
It's you... Er... Prince...?
dolus v
Scion, actually, but it matters not. Just call me Dolus.
elias
What are you doing in my room at this hour...?
dolus v
......
I don't know.
elias
...Huh?
dolus v
I... I don't know.
They stand guard at your door at all times.
But night guards have a tendency to fall asleep.
It's the only time I could come to visit you.
elias
Mmm... Thanks for coming to see me, Dolus.
But why?
dolus v
This situation mortifies me...
elias
Really? Aren't you the son of the hierophant?
dolus v
I am... But clearly there is so much I don't know.
About the world, or about my own father...
elias
......
dolus v
Elias... You're from the countryside, are you not?
Tell me. How is life there? And please, be honest.
I... may soon ascend the throne. I need to know the state of my nation.
Its true state, not what the court advisors or the holy knights claim it is.
elias
Well... We're poor...
Our whole village was poor. Back when it still existed.
dolus v
Back... when it still existed? Elias, what does that mean?
elias
The inquisition burned it to the ground.
I... I think they wanted to see if that'd make my sister give up...
dolus v
......
I-Impossible... That surpasses even my worst nightmares...
Is this truly what we...

(Dolus V starts.)

Ah!

(Lorenzo enters.)
lorenzo
......
dolus v
W-Well? Can't I wander at night in my own home?
lorenzo
...Please, return to your chambers, Scion.
Let the boy sleep. Can't you see how exhausted he is?
(Dolus V starts.)
dolus v
O-Oh--! I... Elias, I'm so sorry...
I disturb you at this hour and pester you with questions...
I am ashamed of my own selfishness. Forgive me...
elias
(smiles) Yawn... It's okay. I was happy to talk...
dolus v
I'll be on my way. Please, sleep well.
elias
All right... You too...
(Dolus V and Lorenzo leave.)
lorenzo
......
dolus v
What is it, Sir Lorenzo? Have you more to say?
lorenzo
...Perhaps... I've been thinking...

Character Descriptions

Jason
A fighter-for-hire with a finely tuned sense for money and opportunity.

Coronis
An Amnisian noble who was forced to go into hiding after being accused of heresy. Possessed of a deeply curious mind.

Plato
A swordsman known to some as the Blood Demon.

Eudoxus
A disgraced merchant trying to rebuild his fortune through vile methods.

Hippalus
A merchant whose shoulders are sagged not due to age, but guilt.

Merchant
A merchant carrying goods inside a fragile wagon.

Ruffian
A highway robber under orders from the crook Eudoxus.