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Chapter 22: Conquest of a New Dawn

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

Apate
A woman who has lived for centuries, with the sole goal of putting a stop to the undying tyranny of the hierophant.

Opening

pericles
Gaze onwards, my companions, for there lies our destination.
Lake Amnisos, and on its center, the great capital city of Tartaros.
kyra
That looks... extremely well-defended.
edward
Yeah, I thought this was going too smoothly...
Do we stand any chance, master tactician?
barlowe
Scarcely any, as things stand.
With the bridge lifted, our options to reach the walls are severely limited.
And that is without considering the catapults, the naval fleet, the mages...
Any fliers trying to sneak on through would be duly swatted out of the air.
Yes, all in all, it looks rather impregnable, does it not?
kyra
There's got to be something we can do, right?
barlowe
No fortress is truly impregnable. We need only find ways to dismantle their defense.
Primarily, we must do away with the naval forces, the spellcasters and the ballistae.
And naturally, lowering the bridge will be the most imperative task of all.
pericles
My recommendation would be to visit the surrounding settlements.
Few are those who resent the theocracy within the city walls,
but outside is a different matter. We may find sympathizers there.
kyra
Even if we do, what could civilians possibly do to weaken that behemoth?
edward
(smiles) Didn't you use to lead a small village's local militia? And look at you now.
You're the last person who should doubt the power of the people, lassie!
kyra
(smiles) Heh, fair point...
pericles
This will be the most difficult challenge we have faced yet.
And breaching the city walls will merely be the beginning of it.
Steel yourselves, my friends. Everything rests on this battle!
barlowe
(smiles) Aptly put. Shall we, then?
edward
Ready and rarin' to go! What're we waitin' for?!
kyra
Apate, are you ready?
apate
As ready as I shall ever be.
Let us bring this dark chapter of human history to a close!

Base Camp

Hestia

kyra
Back home, eh, Hestia?
hestia
Yeah... Can't say I'm all that thrilled.
I never liked the place all that much.
kyra
You don't have any family waiting in there?
hestia
Not really. I mean, my parents are still alive, but...
We... don't really talk.
Scratch the really. We don't talk.
kyra
Oh. Sorry...
hestia
Nah, don't worry.
Honestly, they'd probably be disappointed I'm still kicking.
I'm the black sheep in a long, proud line of holy knights.
kyra
Oh, goodness. My condolences, Hestia...
hestia
Why else do you think I started working for the inquisition?
It was the only way they'd let me enter my apprenticeship.
Make them think I'd put my skills to the service of our glorious nation...
Heh. So much for that. Couldn't have broken that promise harder.
kyra
Are your parents still in service?
hestia
Yeah. Chances are high that they'll be deployed somewhere around here.
Not that it matters. Armor and dust make it difficult to tell people apart.
And if they recognize me, well... They'll probably just fight harder.
If they can recover from the shock of seeing my pigtails for the first time.
kyra
How could your pigtails shock anyone? They're so cute.
(Hestia starts.)
hestia
(smiles) Ahahahahaha! Oh, you're just the most, Kyra.
kyra
What? That's just what I think!
hestia
Well, I'm really glad you do. And I agree! That's why I wear them.

(serious) ...All right, break time's over. Back to work.


I'm making one last gift for you, Kyra. I'm pouring my heart and soul into it.
I hope I'll have it ready before the battle ends.
Otherwise it'll only be good for decor.
kyra
Hey, I'd be happy to hang anything you make me over my mantle.
hestia
(smiles) Heh.

Tiresias

tiresias
Immortal... The hierophant is immortal...
kyra
And so is Apate, obviously.
tiresias
It boggles the mind...
For you and I, this conflict commenced but months ago.
She and the hierophant have been at war for centuries...
kyra
Tartaros was founded over four hundred years ago...
tiresias
And they've been at it longer still, I wager.
Immortality alone would not have allowed Dolus to build his theocracy.
More likely, with time no longer a concern, he was slow and methodical in his ascent.
Outlasting the powers that be of his time. Cementing his position, little by little.
Until eventually, seeing him at the top became habit for all below...
kyra
Tiresias, I'm afraid to ask her...
What the hierophant has been doing to extend his lifetime is just...
It's the most nightmarish thing I've heard in my life.
Do you think Apate, too...?
tiresias
I don't think so. Time, failure and solitude have eroded her moral compass, but...
In all of it, on some level, I can tell she has remained true to herself.
I suspect she harvests the lifeforce of those who were dying already,
or those she had to kill regardless to protect herself.
I sincerely doubt she ever set out to murder innocents for their energy.
kyra
...Yeah, that does make sense.
The only time I've ever seen her use that kind of magic was back in Percote.
I didn't understand then, but I got the sense she... truly despised that power.
tiresias
......
kyra
I can tell something else is on your mind, Tiresias.
tiresias
I won't lie to you, Kyra. I am disturbed, and the slightest bit afraid of myself.
I see it clearly now, Kyra. This is what she warned me against.
Reaching the same discovery that she and Dolus did, all those years ago...
And being consumed by the boundless possibilities it would give way to.
The scholar in me compells me to dig deeper, and yet... I am terrified.
kyra
The way Apate told it to me, it wasn't the power that drove Dolus mad.
Just the opposite, he sought it precisely because he already was mad.
The kind of unassuming madness that lurks deep within a person, waiting...
Until the opportunity to let loose presents itself.
tiresias
And who is to say I do not have that in myself?
No, I should just... throw away this staff and burn my research down.
kyra
The very fact that you're considering going that far speaks volumes.
You're not Hierophant Dolus, and you never will be.
tiresias
(smiles) ...Thanks. I needed to hear that.
kyra
(smiles) Now raise those spirits! I still need your expertise.
tiresias
Aye, you certainly do.
On that note, I have managed to produce light tomes of even greater quality.
Let Hestia know if you need some, and we'll get to work.
kyra
That'll be a real help.
Dolus hasn't survived Apate's wrath for centuries for nothing.
We will need every advantage we can get if we're to finish this.
tiresias
I'll do all that I can.

Demeter

demeter
(smiling) Ah, Kyra! Hi!
kyra
Hi...
Er, look, it's not that I'm not grateful for everything you've done for us.
But uh... I really have to ask. Who are you, exactly?
demeter
(frowns) Me? I'm Demeter. Oh, I never did introduce myself, did I?
Sorry... I keep forgetting not everyone knows my name.
Isn't it weird how you always know your name, but other people don't?
kyra
...That's progress, if nothing else. We got a name now...
Where are you from, Demeter? I've never met anyone quite like you.
demeter
(smiles) I come and go. Everywhere's my home.
There are so many beautiful places in this world.
How could I prop up any one of them above the rest by calling it “home”?
That'd be so unfair...
kyra
Uh huh. Let's try something else, then.
Do you have any family? Friends?
demeter
Yeah! The little critters that walk this land.
They're all my friends and family. You are too, Kyra!
You're one of my favorites, in fact. You're so cool!
kyra
C-C'mon, you don't mean that. That's not true. I mean...
demeter
(serious) Of course I mean it! And don't you go putting yourself down!
You're the one at the center of this adventure.
I'm just a silly little gal standing on the sidelines.
(smiles) How could I sit here and not be in awe of you? You're awesome!
kyra
...Little...? You're taller than me, though...
demeter
Do you have any more questions? I'd love to keep chatting!
kyra
Um... I don't know, what are your hobbies?
demeter
Oh, that's a lovely question! I have a few.
I like turning into a bug and exploring the little crevices in the ground.
You wouldn't believe the wonders you can find down there!
The other day I met a mole family. They were so cute!
kyra
......
demeter
(still smiling) ......
kyra
...Well. Great to meet you, Demeter.
demeter
Same. I hope we become good friends.
(Demeter leaves.)
kyra
Yep, I think she takes the cake for weirdest weirdo we've picked up.
Sigh... But at least this one's nice, so, eh. Who cares.

Huh? That's odd... I feel a little strange...

[Kyra gains 1 Resistance.]

Barlowe, Fiadh, & Beatrix

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
fiadh
Hey! I just remembered!
You said you'd tell me more about yourself if we survived!
beatrix
(smiling) I was just trying to psych you up.
fiadh
Well, it worked. I'm alive.
Time to make good on your end of the deal. Spill it.
beatrix
(still smiling) “It” being what, my dear Fiadh?
fiadh
Everything. I wanna hear your whole life story.
barlowe
Fiadh, I hardly think this is appropriate...
fiadh
C'mon, don't tell me you're not curious too, Margrave.
beatrix
Bold of you to assume he doesn't know anything about my past.
It's you I keep in the dark, hun.
fiadh
...Is that true, Margrave?
barlowe
Well, I... may be privy to a handful of minor details...
Trivialities, really. Nothing worth your time.
beatrix
I keep telling you, Fiadh. I'm nobody that matters.
I've been a blade for hire my entire life.
I do things for people if they pay the price I ask.
fiadh
Yeah, that's really boring.
What's the worst thing you've ever done for money?
Give me something spicy.
beatrix
(serious) ......
Set a fire.
fiadh
...Uh-huh?
beatrix
You're not going to get more out of me about that, dear.
Better try asking something else.
barlowe
Fiadh, I would thank you not to offend one of our most reliable operatives.
fiadh
Hey, if it helps, by this point I have no doubts about her.
She's proven her heart's in the right place a few times over.
beatrix
(smiles) Aww, isn't that cute. I can just feel the love emanating from you.
What's next? Are we going to start giving each other cute nicknames?
What do you say? Wanna be the FiFi to my BeeBee?
fiadh
I'd rather scratch my throat open with my bare hands.
beatrix
(still smiling) All right, FiFi. So, what else do you want to know?
(Fiadh fidgets.)
fiadh
I don't know, something! Let me know you better, you stubborn dope!
beatrix
Well, my favorite color's red. I once had a pet turtle.
I've had seven relationships, but none of them lasted longer than a year.
The most gold I've ever accumulated neared the million pieces.
With them, I bought myself a fancy dagger that I later lost.
I've six scars on my body. My favorite's the one that's right on my--
fiadh
Okay, okay, you can stop. Point taken.
beatrix
What point? I'm just humoring your request!
Why, I dare say you now know more about me than I do about you!
fiadh
(smiles) Good. I'll take pride in that. Means I win this round.
beatrix
Hahaha... Your daughter's just unbelievable, Margrave.
(Barlowe starts.)
barlowe
M-My--
fiadh
(scowling) Daughter?!
beatrix
What, don't you remember?
You had tears in your eyes and everything when you told me.
All about how you loved him like you loved your own dad.
It was positively adorable...
barlowe
F-Fiadh, is that true?
fiadh
Oh that's it. You're dying now.
beatrix
That's the spirit! Could use a new scar to go with the one that's on my--
(The two begin scuffling, Beatrix still smiling.)
barlowe
(smiles) Daughter, huh... Hoho, oh, good grief...

[Beatrix and Fiadh each gain 1 Speed, and their support increases to rank B.]

Plato & Raleigh

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
plato
(smiling) Ayyyyyy, what's up, buddy pal?!
Look at you! You're so cool! Cool as heck!
They probably have your face next to the word “rad” in the dictionary!
raleigh
......
I'm sorry, do I know you at all, or...?
plato
Sure you do! We just met, er... 17 seconds ago!
Plato, the Blood Demon of the urban legends, here to rock and roll!
raleigh
To rock and-- Is that some kind of new combat maneuver?
It sounds ridiculous.
plato
Don't worry about it! Just go with the flow, man!
Or woman? Actually, I'm not sure. What are you, buddy pal?!
raleigh
I'm Raleigh.
plato
Aha! The Rally-man! The Rally-woman?
Ahh, it doesn't matter, does it? You're you, that's the important thing!
Rally-buddy! Rally-pal! Rallying the hearts of all with their dashing locks!
raleigh
......
(smiles) I take it that means you like my hair? I work very hard to take care of it.
plato
It shows! I mean, not to brag, but I'm pretty happy with my hair.
Doesn't it just scream “mysterious swordsman” to you?
Anyway, it doesn't compare to yours! Look, look! It's amazing!
raleigh
Heh... You may look, but you may not touch.
plato
Wouldn't dare to desecrate it with my filthy mitts!
They're covered in blood, you know. Hence the name. Blood Demon!
raleigh
(serious) Wow, you must've killed many to earn such a title...
plato
(frowns, closes eyes) My heart aches with the weight of many a soul, whose time I cut short.
raleigh
May I ask... How many lives have you taken?
I have taken my share, and I'll admit, sometimes it... weighs heavily on me.
And yet you're so full of energy and positivity. How do you do it?
plato
(smiles) That's easy. I have never killed anyone.
raleigh
......
What? But you just said...
plato
I never kill anyone. I just knock on my enemies until they go to sleep.
Don't tell Kyra. I don't think she knows that.
raleigh
...You can do that...?
But... Why do they call you “Blood Demon,” then?
plato
Who said anything about “they?” I'm the one who calls me that!
You can call me that too, if you like. Got my blessing.
You're my pal, after all, buddy pal Rally-dude of the rad locks!
raleigh
...Huh.
(smiles) Yeah, sure. I like you too, buddy.
plato
Ayyyyyyyyyyyyo!

[Plato and Raleigh gain C-rank support with each other.]

Laertes

laertes
(smiles) The capital of Tartaros...
You know, I spent some years studying here, in my youth.
That was before the war... Alas, I could never return.
Not without my arms drawn, at the very least.
I would have gleefully conquered this city for Glamorgan, had they not preferred to establish peace at the earliest opportunity.
kyra
...Sigh... Okay, how much do you want this time?
laertes
(frowns) P-Please! I was just getting to that part...
I can hardly stand still, Commander Kyra. Disastrous tidings have reached me.
My granddaughter has fallen sick!
(Kyra starts.)
kyra
What?!
laertes
The letter from my cousin details her symptoms.
Her skin has acquired a blueish hue, her energy has escaped her, and she is febrile. So febrile...
kyra
......
laertes
C-Commander, what causes you to direct such a glare at me?
kyra
My brother has been sick for years.
I had to watch him decay, slowly but surely...
Growing thinner, frailer, hearing his voice become raspier...
I was utterly powerless... I couldn't do anything for him...
(Laetes jumps.)
laertes
Then you understand! You can relate to my pain...
kyra
But the illness my brother came down with was... supposedly incurable.
laertes
......
We are more fortunate, thankfully.
But my granddaughter needs her medicine urgently.
And it is so highly demanded... Supplies are low, and--
kyra
Stop dancing around it and just tell me how much you need.
laertes
5,000 gold. No more, no less.
I am aware that it is a steep sum, but...
My sweet little girl's life may be on the line!
I am beside myself with worry. Please, Commander, help me!
Help my child as you would help your dear brother...
kyra
......
I...

If you agree

laertes
(smiles) Commander... Sniff... I-I... Words cannot express...
My gratitude knows no bounds, and I--
(Kyra looms menacingly.)
kyra
Shut your mouth.
(Laertes backs away.)
laertes
E-Ergh...!
kyra
Listen to me, and listen carefully, you shameless charlatan.
You've gone too far this time. I should break your nose for this.
But unlike you, I'm a decent person, so I'll stay my hand.
But you're going to fall in line and you're going to behave.
I don't want to hear another filthy falsehood out of you.
And don't you dare try to guilt trip me using my brother again!
Am I understood?!
laertes
...I-I... Why, I... verily... Ahem...
(Kyra steps back.)
kyra
Did you even know the name of that little girl I saw when we met?
Hmph... You're lucky I still have use for your lance arm.
Since money does seem to motivate you, you can keep it.
All I care about is winning this and getting my brother back.
But don't make me regret investing in you, or you will be VERY sorry.
(Kyra storms off.)
laertes
W-Wait, Comm...!

...Hmph... Fine. This will have to do...
Our fight is nearing its end, in any case.
Might as well see it through...
I guess I do owe you that much, girl.

[All of Laertes' stats increase by 3.]

If you refuse

(Laertes balks.)
laertes
What?! You won't...?! Please, no!
I beg you to reconsider, Commander!
My granddaughter, she--
(Kyra looms menacingly.)
kyra
Shut your mouth.
(Laertes backs away.)
laertes
E-Ergh...!
kyra
Listen to me, and listen carefully, you shameless charlatan.
You've gone too far this time. I should break your nose for this.
But unlike you, I'm a decent person, so I'll stay my hand.
But you're going to fall in line and you're going to behave.
I don't want to hear another filthy falsehood out of you.
And don't you dare try to guilt trip me using my brother again!
Am I understood?!
laertes
...I-I... Why, I... verily... Ahem...
(Kyra steps back.)
kyra
Did you even know the name of that little girl I saw when we met?
Hmph... You're lucky I still have use for your lance arm.
(Kyra storms off.)
laertes
W-Wait, Comm...!

Ohh, poppycock! What utter piffle!
I overplayed my hand, clearly... Fie!

Nikolaos & Jason

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
nikolaos
(smiles) Wow... It's an honor to meet you, Sir Jason!
jason
(smiles) Heh. Famous, am I?
But I'm afraid you've got me at a disadvantage. What's your name?
nikolaos
Nikolaos, Sir! And of course you're famous!
You're the guy Kyra hired for 4,000 whole gold!
jason
Ahh, I see what this is all about. You're a mercenary too, aren't you?
But you've never seen so much money together in your life.
nikolaos
(frowns) Sigh... Guilty as charged.
I've been a part of a number of groups since I started.
Some of them were pretty big! They had big names among them!
But the pay's always peanuts, and I'm always the last they pick for jobs.
jason
There's your problem.
nikolaos
Wha-- Already? What part of that is wrong?
The groups? I've tried going up to employers on my own, you know.
(eyes droop) Honestly, that seems to be worse, if anything...
jason
Just sit tight and listen to the guy they hired for 4,000 gold, 'kay?
Groups are cumbersome. Everyone wants a bigger piece of the pie.
The ones who were there first pick on the little new guys.
There's no way to push ahead in that kind of environment.
nikolaos
But... We're in a group right now!
jason
(frowns) Obviously, but this is the bunch we're working for.
We're not competing against anyone. Everyone's getting their wage.
I mean tagging along with merc groups. That's your mistake.
(smirks) I've always flown solo, and look where it's got me!
These shoulderpads are made out of pure gold!
(Nikolaos starts.)
nikolaos
Seriously?!
jason
(frowns) ...Naw. Only some bits. I painted over the rest so it didn't look off.
(smiles) But still! I get to run around with a bit of gold on me.
It's not even any good for protection!
...But it IS good for my image. Everyone remembers the big golden guy.
That's the other thing you need to work on. Something to stand out.
nikolaos
(smiles) Wow... Well, I'm sold! Thanks for the advice!
From here on, I'll be Nikolaos, lone wolf extraordinaire!
jason
(frowns) Well, of course, going at it alone has its downsides, too.
You have to carve your own reputation out from scratch.
And you have to do all the tedious parts of the job yourself.
You sure you're up to face that kind of challenge?
nikolaos
Ahhh, I'll figure it out!
Watch out. Soon I'll be the one stealing jobs from you!
jason
(smiles) Bahahahaha! I like you. You got moxie.
I'll remember your name going forward.

[Nikolaos and Jason gain C-rank support with each other.]

Vasiliki & Scymerius

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
(Vasiliki is crying.)
vasiliki
Sniff... A-Aagh... Sniff...
scymerius
......
vasiliki
Sniff...
(eyes half open) O-Oh... It's you, Scymerius...
scymerius
All right, I guess it falls to me.
What's wrong, girl? C'mon, out with it.
vasiliki
D-Do you know who was there in the last battle?
scymerius
...Yes...
vasiliki
Why? Why'd he have to die?
I don't understand, Scymerius... He wasn't a bad guy.
Why would he fight for Tartaros until he... he...
scymerius
You're lucky, Vasiliki.
You don't know what it is to live with a dark past.
Once you're marked, you're marked forever. People hate a criminal.
And he wasn't like... Well, like me.
I am rotten to the core, and I've long accepted the rot in me.
He could not do that. He would've done anything to escape himself.
Frankly... He's probably more at peace than he'd ever be in life.
vasiliki
B-But... He was nice. That's not...
I don't believe that's what he deserved!
scymerius
And, to be completely honest with you? Neither do I.
But I think he did. What does it matter what we believe, then?
He chose death, and we gave it to him.
Now you have to rise above the sorrow and keep going.
vasiliki
Do you think... that's what he would've wanted?
scymerius
I think that's just what you should do.
The living should never feel indebted to the dead.
vasiliki
......
I know we're not exactly friends, Scymerius, but...
I'm glad you're still alive. I'm glad you're here...
scymerius
Like I said, Vasiliki, you're lucky.
The world hasn't beaten that dumb innocence out of you yet.
...I can only hope it never will.
vasiliki
(smiles) I-I guess that's the closest you'll get to saying something nice to me.
Thank you, Scymerius...
scymerius
...Hmph...

[Vasiliki & Scymerius' support increases to rank B.]

Vasiliki & Fructuoso

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
(Vasiliki is crying.)
vasiliki
Sniff... A-Aagh... Sniff...
fructuoso
Vasiliki...
vasiliki
(eyes half open) O-Oh... Sniff... It's you, Fructuoso...
fructuoso
What's gotten into you, Vasiliki? Please, talk to me...
vasiliki
......
I know it's stupid. You'll laugh at me, but...
It's about Scymerius.
fructuoso
C'mon, I wouldn't laugh at you. You know me better than that.
Heck, I get it. You considered Scymerius a friend, didn't you?
vasiliki
Mmhmm...
I know Scymerius was not a great person. I hardly knew them.
I never even saw their face. I don't know why I care so much.
fructuoso
You care because you're a caring person.
That's just who you are. You can't help it.
vasiliki
W-Well, I don't like it! Sometimes I wish I could just...
fructuoso
Please, don't. The world needs more people like you, and less people like Scymerius or me...
vasiliki
...But you're caring too.
fructuoso
Oh, please. If I was caring, I would never have gotten into crime...
I stole from people. Scared them, threatened them... I'm not like you.
vasiliki
I don't think that's true.
Look, you realized I was sad and came to comfort me, see?
That's not something you'd do if you didn't care...
fructuoso
......
People can be caring and still be bad.
vasiliki
And people can be criminals and still be good.
People aren't simple. That's what I want to believe.
So even if it's stupid... I'll mourn Scymerius, and...
(smiles) I'll treasure my friendship with you.
fructuoso
Heh... Never change, lass.
Don't ever lose that heart of yours, you hear?

[Vasiliki & Fructuoso's support increases to rank B.]

Fructuoso & Scymerius

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
fructuoso
(eyes closed) ......
scymerius
...The heck are you doing?
(Fructuoso startles.)
fructuoso
Whoa!
Ah, it's just you... Y-You startled me...
scymerius
Kneeling, hands clasped... Oh, goodness gracious.
Don't tell me you were praying.
fructuoso
Yeah, so what? That's not illegal, is it?
I felt I had to do something, after what happened last battle...
scymerius
......
It's about the girl, isn't it.
fructuoso
You and me, our souls are stained with crime and sin.
It only makes sense for us to end up like that, right?
But that girl... She was completely innocent!
scymerius
And yet she stood by Tartaros to reach her own goals.
(Fructuoso shifts.)
fructuoso
S-She was looking out for her family!
That's a noble reason, unlike any I've ever had...
scymerius
Noble, and selfish. Not to mention narrow-minded.
That girl was so focused on the stupid money...
She couldn't see that, by tossing her life away, she'll ruin her parents' lives.
It won't matter if they escape poverty. Their child is gone.
fructuoso
Y-You...! Why must you be so... so...

(Fructuoso sputters.)

Urgh!

scymerius
Pardon me. Everyone's got their own coping mechanisms.
You may be content to whisper pretty phrases for her soul, but...
All I know is that the blood of children is on my hands.
Nihilism promises that it does not matter.
I have to latch on to that, or face the fact that I'm a monster.
fructuoso
......
Children... plural?
scymerius
You should count your lucky stars, Fructuoso.
As far as bad guys go, you were small-time.
Your crimes do not run as deep as mine.
You can still fancy yourself a good person...
fructuoso
...But for that same reason, I can sympathize with you.
scymerius
Foolish.
fructuoso
Seriously. It's deeper down... You might not know it yourself.
But I can tell. You regret, just as much as I do.
scymerius
......
Bah. I'm the foolish one. By now I should be better than this...
fructuoso
Just swallow your pride and accept the friendship, dammit.
scymerius
Sigh... Fine. It's your funeral.
(Fructuoso starts.)
fructuoso
...!
scymerius
I don't mean it literally, dummy.
fructuoso
Y-Yeesh... With you, I can never tell...

[Scymerius & Fructuoso's support increases to rank B.]

Pheme & Kairos

narrator
You overhear a conversation between your allies...
pheme
Um... Father Kairos?
kairos
(smiles) Oh, if it isn't Pheme. What can I do you for?
pheme
Father, I understand this is sudden, but I didn't know who else to turn to.
Would it be too much trouble for you if I... made a confession?
kairos
(frowns) ......
Perhaps we should find a more secluded spot.
Who knows... SOMEONE could be listening to us right now.
pheme
That's okay. If someone is indeed eavesdropping...
It's probably me that got them in the habit of it to begin with.
Don't worry. I'm just reaping what I sowed.
kairos
...Oh... Well...
pheme
I'm afraid, Father Kairos. I'm... so scared...
kairos
Of course. I am too.
Who knows how many of us will survive the coming battle?
To be scared in the face of such fraught danger is only natural.
pheme
No, that's not it.
Father, I... I hate them. I look forward to watching them die.
In fact... I want to kill them myself.
I want to cave Soter's head in.
I want to set an arrow ablaze and shoot it into Sandraudiga's black heart.
Do to them what they did to me. To my brother...
I'm terrified of... myself. I can't escape these dark thoughts.
What is happening to me, Father?
kairos
......
It's a tricky thing. I cannot simply give you a lecture about the value of human life.
The harsh truth is, these people you hate cannot be allowed to roam freely.
They've proven time and time again that there's only one way they'll be stopped.
And yet... We cannot find enjoyment in their deaths. That path is dangerous...
pheme
...Am I lost, Father?
It wouldn't be so surprising. I've never been a good person.
You know what the highlight of my day used to be?
Stumbling upon a spicy new bit of gossip I could push around.
When someone got made fun of because of a rumor I spread, I felt so proud.
(smiles) Heh. No wonder nobody liked me. What an awful idiot I was...
kairos
You were a kid, Pheme. Kids can be remarkably cruel.
They don't yet have a firm grasp on good and evil.
Usually that is something we pick up as we grow up...
And you've been forced to grow up much too fast, Pheme.
pheme
Sandraudiga and Soter were kids once too, weren't they?
kairos
All right. How about this?
I cannot tell you to sit this fight out. Not if we need you.
But when the deed is done... I want you to seek Kyra out.
Give her the tightest hug you can muster.
Don't say anything. Cry if you must, but do not speak.
Just clear your mind in the comfort of a friend's warmth.
pheme
...Huh... That's it?
kairos
(smiles) And of course, consider saying a prayer. Could help, you never know.
(serious) ...When this is all well and truly over, that's when the healing process may begin.
Seek me out then, if you like. We can talk more about it.
pheme
Yeah... What was I expecting?
Of course I wasn't going to get better after one conversation.
kairos
Only the Mother can perform miracles.
The most important thing is that you do not lose hope, and that you understand that you are not a bad person.
The fact that you worry about this is clear proof of that.
pheme
(smiles) ...Well... Even if you can't do miracles, it was still helpful talking to you.
Thanks a lot.
kairos
(smiles) No sweat. It's my job, after all.

[Pheme and Kairos gain C-rank support with each other.]

Battle Start

(Dolus and Alastor overlook the city gates. Dolus possesses Recover and Fortify staves.)
dolus
......
alastor
Yeah, this isn't going quite how we'd envisioned it, huh...
Sandraudiga spent far too long playing with her food.
And now that food's gone feral on us...
dolus
You have also proven utterly incompetent.
alastor
C'mon. Have some faith in me. I've won a war for you.
Would've won another if you hadn't forced me to parley.
We're throwing everything we have at them now.
Those rebel gnats won't even know what hit 'em.
dolus
......
Tell me, Alastor. Do you know my son's whereabouts?
alastor
I'm shocked you care, with everything that's going on.
But I think he's at the citadel. There was some kind of commotion earlier.
dolus
......
I shall return there, as well.
alastor
Be careful when going back. There was... also some kind of commotion in the city.
Too much going on at once, in my humble opinion...
dolus
Do not fail me, Alastor. This is your last chance.
alastor
Aye aye, boss.
dolus
...Hmph...
(Dolus returns to the city.)
alastor
Marina!
marina
To lose Ziying and Nestor in such short time...
They must have practically walked right over them.
The hierophant has gone. No need to sugarcoat it.
This is looking dire.
(Alastor punches a wall.)
alastor
Dammit-- Where in blazes is Sandraudiga?!
Handling internal affairs is supposed to be HER job! HER problem!
It's not enough I'm dragged here to salvage her mess, now she's gone off who knows where and left me holding the bag!
marina
Just as her position almost seemed to be within your reach...
A rather masterful move on her part, I have to admit.
alastor
Masterful?! We're about to lose the whole damn capital!
Sure, she'll get rid of us. Bravo! Kudos!
What then? Soon her titles are going to mean nothing!
marina
Alastor! This isn't like you!
alastor
...Yeah, you're right.
I may be cornered, but I'm not in the grave yet.
They'll rue the day they dared to make an enemy of us...
marina
Go back and see what you can figure out.
I'll keep them at bay for as long as I can.
alastor
Good luck, Marina. Don't go joining those two, all right?
(Alastor returns to the city.)
marina
......
That is no longer up to me, Alastor.

Turn 3

apate
...Hmm... Yes, that could work...
I should speak to Kyra about that.

[Unlocks the Apate & Kyra conversation.]

Conversations

Apate & Kyra

First Conversation

apate
Kyra. About those spellcasters along the castle walls...
kyra
If you've any ideas how to handle them, I'm all ears.
apate
I may have a hex at my disposal that I could use to disrupt their magic.
kyra
Even after all this time, your powers continue to amaze me, Apate.
But I'm going to take a guess that there's a catch.
apate
If there wasn't, I would have casted it already.
You see, the effect of the hex will only last a short amount of time.
Furthermore, in order to cast it at such a long range, on multiple targets...
Well, without delving into detail, the spell may also affect myself.
kyra
Better than nothing.
So when should we unleash this magic of yours, then?
apate
I will leave it up to you.
By my estimation, the spell will last 5 turns of the glass.
I should only need 3 turns of the glass to neutralize its effects on myself.
Make certain that we can make it count when I cast it.

Repeat Conversation

apate
Is everything ready, Kyra?
Remember, 5 turns of the glass is as long as the hex will last,
and it will also disrupt my own magic for 3 turns of the glass.

Shall I cast the spell now?

Resolution

"Let's do it."

kyra
Go ahead!
apate
Very well...

You who would see us vanquished... Be silenced!

(The mages guarding the city are afflicted with Silence.)
mage 1
......
(They start.)
mage 1
...!
mage 2
...?!
(The mages begin panicking.)
mage 1
...!
mage 2
......

"Not yet."

kyra
Got it. I'll give you a shout when the time comes.
apate
I will be prepared.
steward
Dame Marina, I bring grave tidings!
The spellcasters... Er...
marina
What? Out with it!
steward
I-I don't know! Something has happened to them!
Some manner of terrible sorcery. They... They cannot speak!
(Marina starts.)
marina
What?! That means they also can't...!
steward
Cast any magic, yes.
They were a vital part of our defensive plan...
marina
Indeed, but still only just that - a part.
Make sure everyone stays in formation.
This is only a setback. We're far from defeated!
steward
I hope so, Dame Marina...

Cybele

Combat

cybele
In the Mother's blessed name, you will go no further!

Combat w/ Nicaea

cybele
(smiles) Nicaea?! Thank the Mother!
I had been told you and Aura had both fallen...
Come, sister. Let us take on the heathens,
and spill their blood in vengeance for Aura!
nicaea
......
I'm not here to help you defend Tartaros, Cybele.
cybele
What, then...?

(Cybele starts.)

Ah! Don't tell me you... You defected?!
After they killed Aura?! How could you?!

nicaea
...They did not kill Aura. I did.
cybele
What?!
nicaea
I killed her, for what she did to our parents...
cybele
I cannot believe what I hear.
Our parents were heretics! Justice was served!
I thought... our bond was stronger than this...
nicaea
......
I... don't know if I want to do this, Cybele...
cybele
...So be it!
If you will be my enemy, I shall hold nothing back!
For the Mother! For Her hallowed kingdom!
And... For Aura!
nicaea
...Yet again, I am to stain my hands with the blood of kin...
Very well. Let us commence, sister.

Death

cybele
But... How can this be?
The Mother... watches over us... Doesn't she?
(closes eyes) ...Aura...

Marina

Combat

marina
Looks like we have finally met our match.
Well, I suppose all good things must come to an end...

Combat w/ Ziying

marina
I was hoping my hunch would be correct.
You did survive, Ziying... I'm glad.
ziying
......
marina
What? It's not such an odd thing to say, is it?
Of us, you were always the good one.
The rest of us cursed the heavens and humanity.
But you never held a grudge against anyone...
You never let what happened to us turn you into a fiend.
You're the one who deserves to live...
ziying
......
marina
I'm tired, Ziying.
Watching the world burn got old a while ago.
I only keep fighting because it's all I know how to do.
But you came here ready for it... Right?
ziying
......
(closes eyes) ......

Combat w/ Scymerius

marina
You hide your face as well...
scymerius
But, judging by the scar... Not for the same reason.
marina
...I have experienced humanity's hatred, of all that they consider unsightly...
scymerius
I am unsightly as well, yes... But within.
Behind this guise, I hide from the past.
marina
It does seem we have one more thing in common.
In the end... We are both cowards.
scymerius
...I suppose you've got a point...

Death

marina
(smiles) I neither deserve nor want your sympathy.
I lived... and I died... on my own terms...

Bridgekeep Death

bridgekeep
With my last breath... I curse this world...

Locations

Bridgekeep's House

bridgekeep
I'm the person in charge of the bridge. The bridgekeeper, you could call me.
However, they sent me home today. Said my services aren't needed!
Who do these city dwellers think they are to take my job away from me?!
Ooo, I'll show them! I'm gonna lower the bridge whether they like it or not!
...Uhhh, but they said I'll be arrested if I go anywhere near, sooooo...
It's in your best interests for the bridge to come down.
How about it? Will you escort me there?
Preferably by picking me up and carrying me there. My legs are tired.

"Let's do it."

bridgekeep
Oki dokie! Let's get going.
But uh, I'm the only one who can bring that bridge down.
If you let me go down, it's going to be VERY bad news for you.
I'm talking “game over” bad. So be very careful, eh?

"Not yet."

bridgekeep
Aww... but I really really really really wanted to lower that bridge...
Please come back again! This is all I have!

Gatehouse

If the visitor is not carrying the Bridgekeep

Visitor
Empty...

If the visitor is carrying the Bridgekeep

bridgekeep
(grins) Mmhmhmhm... Ahhh, they will regret crossing me!
Bow down before my overwhelming might, Tartaros! Bow down!

Mwahahahahahahahaha! Hahahahahahaaaa...!

steward
Dame Marina, I bring grave tidings!
The bridge has been lowered!
marina
Impossible! How did they pull that off?!
steward
I don't know, but panic is beginning to spread among the troops.
What should we do, Dame Marina?
marina
Can we bring the bridge back up?
steward
...No... Not in a timely manner, and they could just bring it back down...
marina
Blast... All right, first and foremost, we must assuage the troops' fears.
The bridge will only bring them within reach of our weapons.
We are the mighty army of Tartaros! Make sure to impress this upon them!
steward
Yes, Dame Marina!
(The steward leaves.)
marina
...The moment of truth... It's going to be over soon...
All that remains to be seen is who will arise victorious.

Southern House

criminal
Hehehe... The rebels have come to play.
But you're finding it rather difficult to get across, are you?
My boys and I specialize in sabotage and subterfuge.
These here arrows are doused in flammable oil. With them...
We can turn their warships into beautiful pyres!
Of course, nothing in life is free. Hehehe...

3,000 gold. I don't think I'm asking for much, am I?

If Polonius or Jason is visiting

jason/
polonius
(smiles) ...Heh heh heh... What if...
criminal
Ah, that look in your eye... I know it well.
It is the look of one well-versed in the art of negotiation.
I shall take you on. But beware! I am a master bargainer...
jason/
polonius
We'll see. We'll see...
(Time passes.)
criminal
...2,500 gold. That is as low as you'll get me to drop it.
jason/
polonius
How can this be?!
My bargaining powers are useless against you...!
criminal
Hahaha... He who warns does not betray, friend.
Still, I commend you. Most people can't get me to budge at all.
All that remains... is to shake on it. Do we have a deal?

"Let's do it."

criminal
Hahaha... Let me take a moment to count it... Yes, it's all here.
What a pleasure it is to make business with such fine gents.

Come along, fellas! Let's have some fiery fun!

(The criminal calls several assassins who swarm the shoreline.)
criminal
Here we go... Steady... Steady...

Loose!

(The ships are destroyed.)

"Not yet."

criminal
Rather destitute, are we? Aw, such a shame.
I really would rather see you win! It's just too bad.
Well, if you happen upon the funds I require...
I'll be waiting here. Hehehe...
steward
Dame Marina, I bring grave tidings!
The warships have been set ablaze!
They... They are lost! They are all lost!
marina
Blast... That's not the work of any ordinary archer.
How could they possibly... Ah, what does it matter.
Do not panic. We do not need the ships to repel them!
steward
I-I pray you are correct, Dame Marina...

Southeast House

old man
The capital looks so beautiful from here, doesn't it?
But within its underbelly hide many rotten mysteries...
Literally! This small, nameless village holds a big secret.
Two underground tunnels, leading directly past the walls.
Now, they are ill-suited to smuggle your entire army inside Amnisos.
But I wager you'd have time enough to sneak a couple people in and out.
And as long as they're there, they could perform a quick task, like, say...
Deal with some pesky ballisticians firing bolts at you from behind the walls.

Have two soldiers stand on the two houses next to mine, then talk to me again.
Remember, the less time they spend in there, the better.
Make sure they're equipped to do what they must quickly!
It takes a little bit of time to get there, too. 1 turn of the glass, roughly.
Oh, and no stowaways! Leave your friends at the door.
You don't want to risk them being left behind, do you?

When the troops are placed

old man
Are these the troops you would send deep behind enemy lines?
Keep in mind, it'll take them a little bit of time to get there.
Just 1 turn of the glass to and fro, if they are spry.
Also, make sure they're ready to do what they must quickly.
So, is everything ready?
When you confirm:
old man
Off you go! Good luck and all those things.
steward
Dame Marina, I bring grave tidings!
T-The enemy has infiltrated the city!
They run amok in the streets as we speak!
(Marina starts.)
marina
What?! How many are we talking about?
steward
It does not appear as though they are many, but...
marina
Very well... Send some troops to dispatch the intruders.
Make it quick, you hear me?
steward
They should be upon the enemy in only 1 turn of the glass!
marina
Go! Give the order!
steward
At once!
(The steward leaves.)
marina
...Urgh... The ballistae...

Northern House

Default

old woman
My late daughter was married to a knight from the capital.
She was not fond of the inquisition, but for him, she had only unconditional love.
I never understood it. He hardly ever visited, and he was so cold, so cold...
But after she passed... I saw what she had already seen long ago.
A side of him I don't think even he himself knew he had in him.

Last I heard, my son-in-law was taking up arms against the theocracy, alongside my brave granddaughter. I could not be prouder of them.
If they are among you... Please, see that this reaches them.
And let him know I hold no hard feelings towards him.
My daughter loved him to the end. That is enough for me.

If Pericles is visiting

old woman
Sir Pericles...
pericles
...I-I...
old woman
Please, I can tell what you wish to say. I beg you not to.
I bear no resentment against you. My daughter loved you to the very end.
pericles
Why would you say that? That cannot be true!
old woman
But it is. I was with her when she drew her last breath.
You know how she disliked the inquisition...
But for you, she had only unconditional love, to the end.
pericles
......
Your daughter was a pure, wonderful soul.
She should not have died so young.
It was... unfair. That is not the way it should have been...
She deserved better. Better than I, as well...
(closes eyes) I have made so many mistakes...
old woman
Perhaps so, but not now, you aren't.
You are standing against the oppressors behind those walls.
We are all grateful to you and to your companions.
And I'm sure, wherever she is... My daughter is grateful too.
pericles
I... I don't know what to say...
old woman
Just say you will win this battle, and bring about true change to Tartaros.
To that end, please, take this. I pray it will aid you in the battle to come.
pericles
It shall. Thank you very much.
I swear to you, the hierophant will be brought to justice on this day!
old woman
Hear, hear...

If Agari is visiting

agari
(smiles) Nana!
old woman
(smiles) Agari, my dear granddaughter... You still live...
I cannot tell you how joyous I am to see you here.
agari
Me too! It's been way too long, Nana...
I've missed your homemade pastries.
old woman
Hohoho... I wish I could make some for you right now.
(frowns) But you don't have the time to spare, do you?
agari
I...
old woman
Please, don't apologize.
Everyone is grateful for what you and your companions are doing.
And, wherever she is... I am sure your mother is grateful too.
agari
Yeah... We're going to change the way things are.
We're going to make this a world she would've loved!
old woman
(smiles) That's the spirit, my dear!
I would like to help you in some small way, if I can.
Please, I'd like you to take this with you.
I can only pray it will help you to win the battle...
agari
Yeah, this'll be useful. Thanks, Nana!
Stay safe. I'll come back to visit as soon as we're done!
old woman
Bring Sir Pericles with you, if you can.
I'd love to see him again, too...
agari
I'll tell him you said that. It's gonna make him so happy!
All right! Goodbye, Nana. See you soon!
(Agari leaves.)
old woman
(serious) May luck be with you, my child...

(She gives the visitor a Dracoshield.)

East House

man
Enemies of the theocracy! How dare you show your faces here?!
To me, mercenaries! This'll teach you for defying the Mother!
visitor
...!
(Enemies emerge from the surrounding houses.)

Ending

(Kyra enters the city.)
edward
We're through!
kyra
Quickly, regroup! We have to keep the pressure--
???
My goodness. Is there any force on this plane of existence that can stop you?
(Kyra starts.)
kyra
That...!
edward
Kyra, that voice, that's--
kyra
I know. Keep your axe handy.
(Soter approaches.)
soter
Hello again. It has been some time.
kyra
Soter...
edward
You got some guts to show yer face in front of us, I'll give you that.
If you're looking for a tussle, you may've just found it!
soter
I am alone, and my blade is sheathed. I have a proposition to present to you.
kyra
Did you realize you backed the wrong horse? Come to beg for us to take you back?
That's not going to happen, Soter. But if you want to surrender...
I'd rather not kill you. Even now.
soter
You do not even know which horse I backed, Kyra. Not truly.
You should know that Grand Inquisitor Sandraudiga is quite enthralled by you.
She would count you among her allies. You and yours.
If you had any sense, you would accept her magnanimous offer...
edward
Now that's a good one!
You jokers really think we'd ever switch to your side?!
soter
Personally? No. I know you better than that.
But the Grand Inquisitor insisted I try anyway.
kyra
And like the good little lapdog you've become, you rushed to do as she said.
That's all you are now, is it? Sandraudiga's mindless little flunkey.
Dancing at the end of her strings as your house of cards crumbles around you.
soter
Only relics of the past are crumbling. We stand on the verge of true greatness.
That is something a simpleton like you could never comprehend.
Oh, well. I was tasked with offering you one last chance, and so I have.
My duty is fulfilled. I have naught more to do in this dreary place.
kyra
Don't move a muscle, Soter. You are not leaving this place.
Certainly not before you tell me where my brother is!
soter
......
I cannot tell you that.
kyra
Don't push your luck, Soter...!
soter
I cannot give you information that I do not have.
The only one who knows at this point is Sir Lorenzo.
He insisted on giving the boy a proper burial.
kyra
......
What did you just say?
soter
Elias passed away yesterday.
kyra
...You lie. Just like Sandraudiga lied about Edward.
soter
I only answered the question that you asked of me.
Believe what you will. Deceive yourself, if you must.
But nothing will change the truth.
kyra
......

(Kyra shakes.)

B-But... But...

edward
W-What did you bastards do?!
soter
You would love to lay the blame at our feet, would you not?
But you know well that we are not at fault. This was always going to be his fate.
His time drew to a close, and the Mother welcomed him into Her warm embrace.
This is the natural order of things, against which you sought to interfere.
Rejoice. Your brother has fulfilled his role in the Mother's grand design.
And he fulfilled it with dignity, unlike you, who continues to lash out against Her.
kyra
......
He's... He's dead?
That can't be right.
He was doing fine... He was...
edward
Kyra--!
(Kyra lunges at Soter, but he dodges.)
kyra
Soter!!
soter
Please, by all means, enjoy the final act in your little dramatic play.
Very soon, none of this will be of any importance.
kyra
Come back here! Come back, you... you...!
(Soter leaves.)
kyra
N-No... No, no, no...
This can't be happening...
He was their hostage! They were supposed to keep him alive!
I... I-I was supposed to be fighting this war to save him...
To see him cured, so that he could live a long, happy life...
(closes eyes) I... I failed him, Edward... I failed him, and now he's...!
edward
Kyra... I... I don't know what to say...
kyra
W-What do I do now? It's all over.
He's gone forever. I'll never see him again.
I'll never get to tell him... All the things I never...
O-Oh, what even was the last thing I said to him?
I can't even remember... I-I...
apate
Kyra! Calm yourself!
edward
Heartless old crone, she just lost her brother!
apate
Not yet...
kyra
Huh...?
apate
Kyra, I told you once. The hierophant's lifeforce is powerful, and plentiful.
With it, I could... I could possibly...
kyra
You can still save him?!
apate
......
Perhaps.
kyra
......
Look. It's starting to rain...
edward
Y-Yeah, now that you mention it...
kyra
All right. Let's get going before the weather gets worse.
We can't rest yet.
Not until we conquer the citadel, and the hierophant's head rolls...!
(Kyra runs ahead, but Edward hangs back to talk to Apate.)
edward
Apate, can you truly--
apate
Silence.
Not now. Not when we are at their doorstep...
(Apate leaves.)
edward
......
(closes eyes) Eli...
(Lorenzo stands before an unmarked grave in a forest. He has removed his helmet.)
lorenzo
......
This is all wrong. This isn't how this should have...
You should've been home, in Percote. Comfortably snuggling in familiar sheets.
Surrounded by loved ones... Your sister holding your hand...
She's the one who should've buried you. Next to your parents, perhaps?
Oh, what do I know? I'm only the knight who took you away from her.
A shallow grave and an unmarked headstone in unfamiliar land.
That's all I could muster for you with the little time I have...

......

(Lorenzo shakes.)
lorenzo
W-What right have I to mourn? I hardly knew you for a handful of days!
I was party to the destruction of your life, yet I dare to shed tears for its loss?!
I... I have no right. I should not even be standing here...
I...

......

(Lorenzo dons his helmet.)
lorenzo
Nevertheless... Though I may have no right to it...
One last duty. A final oath.
I swear it on your grave, young Elias...
(Lorenzo places a headstone and makes to leave. He looks back for one moment before departing.)

Character Descriptions

Dolus
The hierophant of Tartaros. Less a man and more an abominable, heartless monster.

Bishop
A practitioner of searing light magic, today known only to a select few.

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

Marina
One of Colonel Alastor's lieutenants. A woman whose past is as shrouded in mystery as her visage.

Legendary Weapon: Lust
Hallowed weapon that expunges sin.

Cybele
A Tartaran commander and eldest of three triplets. Serene, caring, and as loyal to the theocracy as they come.

Bridgekeep
The woman in charge of managing the bridge to the main gate of Amnisos.

Civilian
An innocent peasant lacking any combat skills at all.

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

Fleet
Warships that patrol the waters. They carry powerful ballistae.

Sellsword
Blades-for-hire looking for monetary opportunities.