 The question is, how will the Empire respond to the disappearance of Omega and the Primal? Oh, I didn't see you there. Forgive me. Word from Baelsar's Wall is proving long in the coming, and my mind cannot help but stray to grim places. Alphano, a message from the Alliance. It's about time. Pray summon the others at once. Yes, sir. General Oldin reports that his forces have secured the breach in Baelsar's Wall. And what of the Primal and Omega? There is still no sign of either at this time. He writes that they will begin a more thorough investigation shortly. And, as expected, he wishes to petition the aid of the Scions of the Seventh Dawn. As expected. The Alliance's decision to capture a part of Baelsar's Wall is open to interpretation. The Wall serves to demarcate Imperial territory Al-Amigo included from the rest of Eorzea. To an observer, the Alliance's actions could be seen as a prelude to invasion. Indeed. And the Alliance leaders have no wish to be branded invaders. You're saying they won't fight for Al-Amigo? Even after everything that's happened? Not without the consent of her people, no. Make no mistake, Lys, the Alliance is in complete agreement that the Empire must be purged from Eorzea. However, they will not set foot in Gear Abania until they have formally secured the consent and cooperation of the Al-Amigo in opposition. They would have us act as intermediaries. Precisely. The Scions are uniquely qualified to serve in this capacity. That is to say, Lys' given her personal connection to the Resistance. Who better than you to broker an agreement between the Alliance and the people of Al-Amigo? Assuming you are willing, of course. Of course I am. You know I'd like nothing more. As for who should accompany you on said diplomatic mission, I had a mind to volunteer myself. Well, that covers the talking part. But you just know there'll be trouble along the way. Are you available? Thanks. It means a lot knowing you'll be there. I too shall accompany you. Such endeavours are seldom hampered by a surfeit of healers. Good point. Allow me to offer my services as well. I have spent quite enough time here of late, so I'll be coming. But we will need someone to keep an eye on things. I trust you have no objections? None, my lady. Gladly shall I continue to serve as caretaker of the Waking Sands, and there keep watch for signs of primal and Asian activity both. As capable as my learned friend undoubtedly is, there are some troubles that may prove too much for a single scion, on account of which I mean to stay. It is settled then. Let us each see to our preparations. Ready, my friend? Well then. To Taru, I leave the rising stones in your capable hands. Don't worry, Alphano. I'll see that the place is still standing when you come back. Mistress Yishtola hasn't folded all. You are bound for Giribanya? Aye. The Alliance would have us make contact with the Alamegan resistance as soon as possible. It begins then. As soon it shall endoma if the gods are good. It is but a pity it must be now. I am sorry that we shall not be present to fight beside you in the battles to come. You have stood with us countless times, Lady Yugiri. Pray do not apologise. Then let us thank you instead. You and yours stood with us from the first, when we came to this land as refugees in search of sanctuary. Lotham I to think what might have become of my people, had you not extended to us the hand of friendship. We will never forget. This I solemnly swear. Much has changed since first you set foot on these shores. Revenant's toll stands as a testament to that. I'm sure your people will manage in your absence. Indeed. They have built a new home for themselves and no longer need me to shepherd them. The time has come for Kosetsu and I to return to our master, to our home. I know how you feel. It's time I went home too. Though our battlefields be a thousand mounds apart, our purpose is one. Let all men harken to the clarion call of freedom, of liberation, from Eorzea to the Far East, that they may rise up and cast down the curse of Garlemold. Take care, you hear me? When all of this is over, we're going to celebrate, together. Just you wait. I should like that very much. Fare you well. I remember crossing the border, standing in Ghirabania once more. Me and my fellow scions, the warrior of light among us. Behind us, Baelsar's wall cutting the land in tune. Freedom on one side, tyranny on the other, tyranny and the promise of a new beginning, but one that could only be bought with flames and blood. I remember the old stories, how the breaker of worlds came down from on high and cleft the earth with a single blow. Raga's Reach, a holy place and a fitting home for the resistance, for the brave and the true, the loyal sons and daughters of Alamigo. They were waiting for us there, men and women whose souls still cried out for what was lost, for what could be ours again. Allow me to welcome you once more to Raga's Reach, our humble headquarters. My name is Conrad Kemp and I have the dubious honor of overseeing operations here. It is a pleasure to meet you, Master Kemp. I am Alphino Leveur of the scions of the seventh dawn, as are my comrades. Before I speak of our purpose here, pray allow me to thank you for sheltering Ida, forgive me, Lys, and Papalimo at great risk to yourselves. Now, now, there's no need for that. They risked their necks for us enough times. It was the least we could do. I, I wanted to, um, I mean, about the mask and... Ah, don't fret over that. You're not the first person to take up arms against the Empire under a false name. We'd do the same if we had any sense. My condolences for your loss, child. Papalimo laid down his life to save us, to give us a chance to make a better future for ourselves. There will never be a better time to drive the Garlians from our lands, but we have to take the lead on this. We can't leave it to fanatics like Ilbert. More than a few of our people were taken in by his promises, followed him all the way to the wall, good men and women who never came back. When Monago told us what had happened, and the bastard had made sacrifices of them for his twisted ritual, by roguer it filled me with an unholy fury. But what's done is done. Best we can do now is see that it wasn't all in vain. That is why we are here today, sir, to see that some good comes of this tragedy. On behalf of the Eorzean Alliance, we do hereby extend a formal offer of military assistance to the Alamegan resistance. Do you now? Well, go on then. I'm sure there's more to it than that. So that's the way of it, eh? The Alliance hoping to avoid a direct confrontation with the superior forces of the Empire wishes to engage them by proxy with our vastly inferior ones. My comrades and I must confer on your proposal. A moment, if you please. Of course, Master Kemp. Take all the time you require. Thank you all for waiting. We have reached a consensus. I, Conrad Kemp, do hereby accept the Eorzean Alliance's proposal. You must understand, however, that our cooperation comes with certain caveats. Those caveats being... I take no joy in this, just so you know. Were it within my power, I'd offer you more assistance. But the resistance is far more fragmented than you realize. The men and women in my care belong to but one of many factions. Simply put, I can only speak for the people of Rolga's Reach. Now, I have every intention of appealing to the others, and I expect many will agree. But it will take time, and I cannot guarantee universal support. Understood. I shall see that the Alliance is under no misapprehensions as to your position. Much obliged. But that's not the whole of it. As you can imagine, the loss of those who cast their lot with the griffin left us short on numbers. Some of our most trusted veterans died at the Wall, and we've had to fill their posts with the young and inexperienced. Frankly, everything's in a right bloody mess. Oh, we'd be more than happy to help you get back on your feet. If we're going to work together, we'll be doing ourselves a favor. Well, there's no shortage of work to be done, us for sure. We're in dire need of new blood, too. Ishtola and I could lend a hand in the infirmary. From what I saw, they could do with a few more healers. Very well. I, for my part, shall return to the Rising Stones. I'm certain there are others among the Scions who would welcome the opportunity to fight for Alamegan Liberation. Um, is there anything else we can do to help? I had something else in mind for you, Lut. Monago and Metrid will tell you more. Understood. We won't let you down. It is good to see you again, my friends. I hope you are here to tell me you have made contact with the Resistance. We are, General. Allow me to introduce Monago of Rolga's reach. At your service, sir. And may I say what an absolute honor it is to stand before the Bull of Alamego. These are not the Bloodsands, girl. You and I are but soldiers on a battlefield fighting for the same cause. Uh, as you say, General. On behalf of Commander Kemp of the Alamegan Resistance, I present to you our formal response. Good. I'm glad we've reached an accord. Though I was not aware you would suffer such losses. I... some of our finest took part in the Gryffins' doomed assault, and we've been struggling to find new recruits ever since. The massacres cast a pall over the whole Resistance, and many who might once have been open to joining us have since thought better of it. After all of the Gryffins' false promises, one can hardly blame them. They have no desire to give their lives for a lost cause. We will not lie to them. This is war, and lives will be lost. Yet what we offer is not the fever dream of a madman, but true hope. The people need proof of this, Father. Let us show it to them. I say we stand shoulder to shoulder with our new allies and engage the Galians in open warfare. The Resistance must demonstrate that they can hold their own against Imperial Regulars, and with our assistance, I am confident they can do just that. If we can achieve even a token victory, I believe it will serve to rekindle the hope of the Alamegan people and inspire them to rise up once more. I... I... once word spread that we'd want to battle against the Galians, I'd wager we'd have new recruits flocking to us from miles around. The question is, when and where do we strike? I'm glad you asked. I have a plan. Things looked grim for us after carton-ho, didn't they? Oh, how they doubted us. Yet here we are, right as rain, with fancy new toys to put through their paces. It's like all my name-days have come at once! Well, well, well, if it isn't Garland's little troublemaker. I can't wait to see the look on Xenos' face when I bring him your head. That is, if my secret weapons here don't grind it into mash! ATTACK! Miracles of madatec design, my arse! I've passed all the stools in these parts of scrap. You'll pay for this? Mark my words, the next time we meet we'll be the last! And I'll tell you, Viceroy, the day belongs to Alamigo! I remember the peaks of Ghirabania, silent watchmen that would stand long after we were gone. We came seeking allies to join us in the fight against the Empire. People who had had enough, people who had suffered every possible indignity, who had been treated like animals, day after day after day. Are they Imperials? Worse, Skulls. Listen, Lys, whatever happens, stay hidden and do not intervene, understood? You there, halt! You know you shouldn't be here. Explain yourself. Forgive me, sir, I came to deliver the tributum. Oh, I, a likely story. Only a fool would dare to come so late. Or, may I have, a resistant spy. No, no, you've got it all wrong. I was waylaid by bandits. It's not my fault. I said halt! Is this a joke? You don't seriously expect us to believe this is a faith? How stupid you think we are! It is, I swear, on my mother's life. Sparice, you came late, you lied about bandits, and then you tried to cheat the Empire of its due. Think you can kill them all, including the ones watching from the tower. Even if you did, others would come for him and his family. You'd be condemning them all to a life of hard labour, assuming they didn't just execute them, that is. But it isn't fair. It's your bloody fault we're stuck out here patrolling this God's forsaken wasteland. It's your fault I have to listen to people go on and on about how Alan Eagans can't be trusted. I've worked and coiled harder than any man. I'm a shittish in God's dammit, and what are you? A stupid, stubborn little dog who'd soon abide the hand that feeds him and pine for their good old days. Finnoff! Lord Zenos is expecting our report. How about the poor bastard can't believe his luck. He gets to go home. We should do the same. Alliance forces have occupied Castrum Orients and taken up positions along the length of the wall. Our patrols have engaged their reconnaissance parties on site, but there have been no significant exchanges. Save one. A unit tasked with field testing prototype Magitek weapons was attacked. The weapons were destroyed with the unit sustaining near total casualties. Near total? Go on. My lord, there was but a single survivor from the unit in question, which falls under my command. According to his report, they were ambushed by a contingent of Aeolian Alliance regulars, abetted by resistance insurgents. A simple ambush and only one survivor. A fine day's work. The stubbornness to survive is not without worth. He may live. However, the twelfth is no place for the weak. He shall be relegated at once, my lord. As you say, the twelfth is no place for cowards who count their lives more precious than the cause. Indeed, indeed. We have no need of cowards. My lord. Cowards who defer critical missions to their subordinates who hide within their castra, never meeting their prey in battle, never staring into the whites of their eyes. Why? When confronted with a heretofore unknown icon did we surrender the wall to the Alliance? Because my honored father in his infinite wisdom has not seen fit to grant us leave to march on their lands. Accordingly, we have extended an invitation to our neighbors. Gear Abania is where we shall host them. The field upon which we shall enjoy the sport of kings. Patience is paramount. Cornered animals may have spirit, but they are ultimately predictable and very poor sport. But if one dangles the promise of freedom before them while nipping at their heels to stoke their passion, then things become interesting. It is a delicate dance, one which asks much of my house. And so I put the question to you, my fellow huntsman. How shall we deal with these savages? My lord, I have a proposal. Silence, Alamegan. You do forget yourself. Only by the grace of Lord Van Bael Sauer you afforded a place here and that in name alone. We have no need of your proposals, savage. This savage yearns to hunt her own. The floor is yours, commander. Thank you, my lord. Excellent. The disposition of the imperial forces is exactly as expected. I will notify father. Cannon fire! Where did it come from? Smoke! There! It's that... Oh, god, it's Raelgar's reach. It's no use. I think someone's jamming our communications. You don't think... could this be part of a coordinated attack? Too early to draw conclusions. We must abort the assault and return to the reach at once. Traitor! Kind slayer! You're no kin of mine! Stand aside, Pylos. This one has promise. Have a care, my lord. She's not like the others. Do not disappoint me, girl, or I will kill you. Seven hells! It's him. It's Xenos. The voice royal! Oh, you are a dead man! So spirited and yet so empty. Magical barrier. Alas, it will not save you. In Byroga! We saw the smoke and thought we heard explosions. Are we under attack? The Imperials were all over us before we realized what was happening. No one knew where to run or what to do. It was chaos. Lisa and Master Kemp rallied the guards and brought us enough time to get some of the wounded to safety, but I haven't seen either of them since. Confound it! If we lose the reach, this will all have been for naught. Aranvold, can you escort these people to the wall? Aye, sir. Our place is at the reach. We must offer such aid and succor as we are able. Saving lives is now our paramount concern. If we can hold back the Imperials until father sends reinforcements, we may yet turn the tide. I'll join you. I've done all I can for these people and you'll be crying out for a healer in there. I feel you're right. Come, there is no time to lose. What took you so long? Alphano, I need your help! But the prisoners! Seed your men, Pylos. As you command, my lord. Your friends were a disappointment. But you... you will entertain me, will you not? Pathetic. Seven hells. Shall we give chase, general? Nay. There has been enough death this day. Sit at the Wounded. Aye, sir. All right, lass. It is no ordinary foe could best the likes of you. Yeshola! Hold on! Don't worry, it's going to be all right. Alphano, Master Kemp is all yours. Understood. Don't just stand there gawping. Hold her down while I work. The worst is past, but without the proper facilities, I can do no more. Master Kemp too would be better served in the infirmary. Let us take them there without delay. Give us a hand, would you, Lys? Oh, of course. I know you must be exhausted, but there will be others who need our help. Leave these two to us and look to the other wounded. Were it not for the swift actions of the Scions and the Alliance, many more would have died. You risked your lives to save ours. And for that we thank you. There is no need for thanks. We are allies, are we not? Aye, just so. That is not dwell on this tragedy, but look to the future. The future? I'm sorry, General, but there is no future for us. We've lost too many. Gods, I can still see Mephrid with that woman standing over him. They've ripped the heart out of his general. They've broken us. Our fight is over. Master Kemp, please. I'll always hate them with every fiber of my being. For what they took from us then and now. Our homeland, our freedom, our bloody children. You mean the Skulls? The youths who fight for Xenos? Krania Lupi, the Black Wolf's legacy and our shame. A unit made up of children born to Alamegan dignitaries who came of age during the occupation. Sons and daughters of Ghia Abania raised to be proud citizens of the Empire with all the rights and responsibilities that entails. It'd be easy to curse them and call them traitors. But there are children. Our flesh and blood. If the only way to forge the future we want is to cut down our own then. Then what was it all for? Nago. Nago? What will you say to the families of the fallen? To the mothers and the widows and the orphans? Will you tell them it was all for nothing? Listen to the girl. We dare not suffer our comrades' sacrifices to have been in vain. Now is the time to steal our resolve and press on. Painful though it may be. And when Xenos comes back with his army, what then? This isn't the first time, you know. You'll be hard-pressed to find men brave or stupid enough to face him again. I still can't believe how strong he was. He humiliated us back there. The Warrior of Light included. God help us if he's next in line to the Gaelian throne. Lotho I am to say it we should not be surprised. Before succeeding Van Belsaar in Alamigo, Xenos led the Imperial Army to Doma where he crushed the rebellion utterly. As a matter of fact, Doma remains in his charge to this day. Suffice it to say, Varys' heir is a peerless warrior and an accomplished general. The question is, how are we to contend with such a foe? Come now, even you have your limits. But then, so too must he. One legatus ruling two provinces a world apart. Yes, divide and conquer. We kindle the flames of revolution in Doma once more, thereby forcing Xenos to fight a war on two fronts. For that, there would need to be someone left to fight on this front by the time you got back. Look, I'm not in either plan as promised, and I feel for our brothers and sisters in Doma, truly I do. But I fear we lack the strength to see it through. Our faith in your people, Master Kemp, them and the Sions, hold fast, rebuild, and when all is in place we shall defeat Xenos together. If you're going to Doma, I'm coming too. I want to help our friends there, and make sure nothing like this ever happens again. Give us the time we need, and we will give you something far greater. Very well. For all you have done for us, we will fight on. But be swift, comrades. Our amigo has suffered enough. Twelves be praised. Full sure was I that I had come too late. Uriang'e, tell me you haven't come all this way just to see us off. And nay, my lady, ere you quit these shores for eastern climes, I wished to share some words of seeming import. Look ye where the sun doth rise, see crimson embers, darkening skies. Look ye where the sun doth fall, see azure lost amidst the squall. Well, that sounds suitably foreboding. Another one of your prophecies, I presume? Of far eastern origin, I. It is my earnest hope that this ancient wisdom may serve to guide you on your journey. For what dangers lie in wait for you upon those distant shores are yet beyond my knowing. A parting gift befitting your roundabout ways. Thank you. I have more than words for you, my lady. It's beautiful. Is it for me? Though undeniably powerful, your ethereal blade taxeth you greatly in the wielding. Not so this rapier, which shall serve you just as well against all but the most formidable foe. Impressive. It feels as though it's attuned to my ether. I shall treasure it. Honoured guests, say your farewells, for the moment of our parting draws nigh. A fair wind blows and I mean to follow it. It would seem our ship is set to sail. Pray give my regards to Thancred and the others, and take care. A fine day, is it not? Fair winds and following seas. The misery is enjoying herself. Nevertheless, it would not do for you to spend the entirety of our voyage above deck. Let me show you to your quarters. Not under normal circumstances. Captain! You needed on deck! Something queers afoot. The winds died down, the waters went still, and all of a sudden we were dragged off course. Dragged? By what? Can't rightly say, sir. But some of the lads are muttering about seeing things in the water. Things that shouldn't be there. Oh, for the love of... If you will excuse me a moment. Actually, might I persuade you to join me? Loth though I am to admit it, I have a bad feeling about this. Thank the twelve! Everything here would appear to be in order. Good. Repairs should be completed by the time we return to the misery. But upon we shall resume our journey without further ado. I swear, if I never hear another ghost or it will be too soon. I remember the sea, the smell of the salt, and the crash of the waves as we drew closer to Kugane. The only port open to outsiders in Hengashi across the Ruby Sea from Othard, from Doma, all the colours of the rainbow, all the peoples of the world, all in one place. I wish you could have seen it. By the twelve? I thought Ishgard remarkable, but this. We are certainly not in Eorzea anymore. A tavern is a tavern, Alphano. Here or anywhere else. Now, if you'll excuse me, it's time to do what I do best. A thousand pardons, my lady. The signs of the seventh dawn, I presume. I hope your voyage was not too trying. And you are? Ah, yes, of course. Forgive me. Hancock of the East Oldenard Trading Company at your service. On behalf of Chairman Lolorito, I bid you welcome to Kugane, and invite you to take refreshments at our local offices. Lolorito? I was aware his interests extended beyond the borders of Eorzea, but not so far as Kugane. Regardless, I am disinclined to accept the hospitality of grinning merchants, especially those who serve a master with whom we have such a difficult relationship. My such naked suspicion. I do hope that business with the Crystal Braves did not rob you of all faith in your fellow man, or do you really think the Chairman is plotting to drag you into another one of his grand schemes? I beg your pardon. If you are trying to win my trust, you are failing quite spectacularly. Oh dear, have I offended you? Once again, I must apologise too much time in the Far East, you see. One is compelled to talk in circles around everything here, and one finds oneself longing for the invigoratingly candid speech of the all-done markets. Though I see now that this was neither the time nor the place to indulge said longing, might I suggest that we continue this conversation at the company offices? Too many eyes and ears here, you understand. It would be decidedly reckless to say any more. If I may favour you with the invigorating candy you apparently crave, it would be decidedly reckless to follow a man I neither know nor trust. Give me one good reason why we should accept Lord Lolorito's invitation. Now there's the young diplomat I was told to expect. Very well then, I shall explain. You understand that you have come to a most reclusive and secretive nation, yes? One whose board is a close to foreign trade save at this single port. Then it should come as no surprise that a great many parties have vested interests here. Merchants like myself are a given, of course, but for every one of us, you may be certain there is also an agent of a foreign government. Many notable nations and empires have embassies here, you know, including, of course, the Gaelian Empire, with whom you have such a difficult relationship. To paraphrase, Kogane is teaming with imperial spies, one or several of whom could now be listening to our every word. Something to that effect, yes. Beneath this veneer of bustling trade, a war for supremacy is being waged between world powers. One might say we were standing on the front lines, just not in public. I still have my doubts, but he may have a point. I say we accept his invitation for now. Our former turges took great pains to ward these walls against all manner of surveillance, where business dealings are concerned we do not compromise on confidentiality. You may avail yourselves of these offices for the duration of your visit, come and go as you like and know that you may speak freely here. Your offer is most generous, but I will not enter into any agreement which would leave us beholden to you or your master. A legitimate concern? Allow me to clarify then. The chairman bids you consider this as an expression of his heartfelt contrition for the bloody banquet and the unpleasantness which followed. Never having been one to put stock in words alone, the chairman deems the provision of material aid to be a more appropriate demonstration of his sincerity. My sheer coincidence, your purpose here, also happens to coincide with our own interests. That is, assuming you are come to aid the Doman Liberation Front. I will not bother to offer a denial. I, you have the right of it. To be specific, we are come in search of our far eastern allies, Yugiiri and Gossetsu, whom we hope to assist in their fight. The Auri Shinobi and the Rougadin Samurai? Then you will be pleased to know that they have both come to Kugane. Are you sure? Quite. They came here aboard a company vessel, you see. However, they encountered difficulties securing passage across the Ruby Sea. The Ruby Sea? Sorry, I've never been any good at geography. Forgive me. This calls for a map. We are here in Kugane, the sole open port of Hengashi, situated on her western coast. Doma, meanwhile, is here on the eastern coast of Othard in Yansha. Therefore, if your friends are to reach Doma, they must first cross the Ruby Sea. Alas, this is easier said than done, as the Ruby Sea does not fall within the dominion of either Hengashi or Doma, being controlled since antiquity by a third party, namely the Confederacy. Said maritime collective is known for the consummate skill of its sailors, and for demanding that any vessel entering its waters pay a toll, referred to as the Ruby Tithe. In exchange, the Confederacy's vast fleet guarantees the safety of those who travel within its territory. Now, as I'm sure you are aware, Garlemold conquered Doma some 25 years past, at which time the Empire saw no value in controlling the Ruby Sea, and thus did they turn a blind eye to the activities of the Confederacy. The recently appointed Acting Imperial Vice-Roy of Doma had other ideas, however. She has formally condemned the Confederacy, and declared that any who recognize their authority shall be branded enemies of the Empire. Bowing to this pressure, Hengashi severed ties with these toll takers and forbade the payment of the Ruby Tithe, prompting the Confederacy to make it known that any merchants choosing to sail the Ruby Sea would do so at their peril. No wonder they struggled to secure passage to Doma. What captain would risk such a journey given the circumstances? I am told your friends were not so easily deterred from their course, but I know not whether their persistence bore fruit. I say we follow in Yugiiri and go set to his footsteps and attempt to secure passage to Doma for ourselves. We will need to cross the sea in any case, and we may learn something of their whereabouts in the process. And should we find that they are still in Kigane, we can make the journey together. In that case, I have some information which may be of use to you. No quid pro quo, I assure you. The Chairman was most insistent that I aid you to the best of my ability. He's late. Endless and most sincere apologies to you and yours, yes, yes? This way, this way quickly now! Enough. Where are you taking us? Where is the ship? This ship, this ship! So very sorry to inform you, yes, yes. Long before was it pledged to another. Ead to me! These ones are for Doma! I knew it couldn't be this simple. Nothing personal, yes, yes! Just business! Then business is about to take a turn for the worse. Come on, let's find a way out of here. Stay hidden and quiet, understood? Clear the road, clear the road! You there, Korjin! We seek four foreigners, one a brutish woman carrying an unconscious Namazu. Have you seen them? Four foreigners, you say? Ah, yes! Very rude they were, making no apology as they barged past. They went that way, I think. Many thanks, good sir. With me, they cannot have gone far. All is well. All is well. The Sekisei Gumi will not return this way for some time, I should think. You are of the East Aldenard Trading Company, yes? Come with me. I know a safer way. You are returned. And with guests, I see. Our meeting went about as well as expected. We've brought the Namazu who thought to betray us. When he wakes up, we'll see what he knows about Yugiri and Gazetsu. Well done, you. When I saw the Sekisei Gumi out in force, I did begin to worry, but I see my fears were misplaced. Actually, if it weren't for Soroban, we might not have gotten away. It was my pleasure. Yet I must ask, Soroban, why would you deceive the Sekisei Gumi to help us, foreigners of whom you know naught? Why out of the kindness of my heart? Is what I would like to say, but my motives are not so pure. I chanced to witness your meeting with Hancock at the tavern and saw an opportunity. An opportunity? Like many, I came to Kugane as a trader to make my fortune. Korjin of the Red may serve the Empire as mercenaries, but Korjin of the Blue walk a different path. Regretfully, most here would rather not meet our gaze, much less to business. So I seek the custom of those less predisposed to dismiss us outright, namely the East Aldenard Trading Company. Quid pro quo, is it? Well, there is no denying that we owe you a debt. What say you, Hancock? Will you consider doing business with our entrepreneurial friend here? Rest assured, Master Soroban, that in matters of trade, the company does not discriminate. We would be honored to hear your proposal. I promise you will not regret this, good sir. Ah, yes. You sought passage across the Ruby Sea, did you not? I have a ship you can use. You do? Well then, far be it from us to refuse, you have our deepest thanks. And you mine. That was Gazetsu. I'm sure of it. He's in trouble! Lise, wait! I suppose we should follow her then. Victory to the samurai! Ha ha ha ha ha! How many is that now? Ten in a row! Gazetsu! This is a surprise! What in blue blazes are you three doing here? I could ask you the same thing. We've been looking all over for you, and then I suddenly heard you screaming. It would seem there has been a misunderstanding. Allow me to explain. So, in summary, you started a brawl with some off-duty imperial soldiers and were subsequently arrested by the Sekisegumi, whom you somehow befriended and convinced to set you free if you could defeat a given number of them in single combat. Ten bouts for my freedom, aye. Tis but a bitter you came too late to witness the last word. And with that I'm free to go, yes? Our word once given may not be broken, but we pray you make every effort to avoid future altercations. Circumstance is notwithstanding, my lord. We are honoured and grateful to have witnessed firsthand the skill of a Doma samurai. Ah, and we had just concluded negotiations. I gather my assistance was not required. I remember the water. How it turned crimson in the morning sun. A shimmering sea of rubies stretching from horizon to horizon. You could almost believe it went on forever, but beyond that red expanse lay a landing terminal. On the shores of Othard, our Domen brothers struggled in vain. Gentlemen, I'm told you are most unreceptive to my associates' requests. I realise you do not look kindly on the Confederacy and her ways, but if you refuse to pay the ruby tithes, your safety in these waters cannot be assured. Spare me your concern, pilot. Your feeble attempts at extortion will not work on us. You remain at large because we allow it, because you are such insignificant little pests that we see no need to swat you. But if you wish to risk the ire of the Viceroy, by all means fire upon an imperial vessel. Give us a reason to bring the full might of the Gaelian Empire to bear against your pathetic fleet. Bastards! Gentlemen, surely the fact that you have such limitless resources at your disposal gives you all the more reason to spare some few coins for the less fortunate. All talk just as I thought. Come, let us away. I have no time for this rubbish. We're all the same to them, aren't we? Savages to be ruled or slaughtered. They've always bolted paying the ruby tithes, but they were never so eager to pick a fight. The problem, you see, is that many of my comrades in the Confederacy are of Domen descent, and the acting Viceroy, well, she's not too fond of Domans to say the least. If we take any action to hinder the safe passage of an imperial vessel, she'll accuse us of attempting to ferment rebellion and Branda's enemies of the Empire, which we can ill afford to be. Like the man said, we're all talk. And where did the Kojans stand in all this? With the winning side, of course. Their mercenaries to a fault eager to offer their services without coercion. The Shellback could tell you more, though something tells me he would rather not. I don't understand. If the Gaelians are causing the Confederacy this much trouble, and if so many of you are Domen to begin with, why aren't you willing to fight back? Spoken like a true friend of the Domen Liberation Front. If you're planning to rouse us with noble words and grand promises, don't bother. We all know what the Imperial Army can do. Compared to them, we're boys with boats. Besides, what ties a man may once have held to his home are forsaken upon joining the Confederacy. We look out for none but our own. Be that as it may, our livelihood is under threat. And the captain will need to decide soon whether we're to go down in a blaze of glory or bow and scrape for crumbs from the Emperor's Table. All while our friend the Viceroy continues her purge of Doma's radical elements. I believe she's holding court in one of the fishing villages even as we speak. That she, devil! Her perfidy knows no bounds! She must be stopped! Come, let us find Soroban and put us here once! Tell the others that these ones have paid. We all have places to be. Even accounting for the rebellion, such indiscriminate shows of force seem pointlessly excessive. If only you knew how commonplace such scenes have become. Are we too late? Over there, someone's coming! Sworn enemy of Doma, of my master. The traitor who sold her homeland to the Garlians. Yotsuyu. The Viceroy herself and look behind her, isn't that? Filth and squalor everywhere I look, how very dull. What I wouldn't do for a drink. Come now! You've no reason to look so afraid. You have lived through a quarter of a century of garlion rule, remember? It's better to bend with the wind than stand tall and be broken. Therein lies hope. Therein lies freedom. I come before you today seeking affirmation. A heartfelt declaration. You're free to answer me as you see fit, yet even the least among you should know the correct response. Should. Residents of your village, one of your neighbours, may have your friend, was detained by the Koshin this morning. They say he was attempting to flee to Kugane, but we both know that simply isn't true, don't we? Have you anything to say, but slow this one? Is there anyone more sensible among you? Have any of you anything to say? To swear? My lady, I swear to serve the Empire. To do whatever is asked of me and never disobey. I'll say to that man. Of course, it wouldn't do to simply take you at your word. Kill him. Surely you can do that much. He must be guilty of something or other, or he wouldn't have attempted to flee the Empire. A family. Can't me forgive me, can't me forgive me. Very good. I've always had a soft spot for men like you. Next, I want you to shoot those two over there. To all to work, you understand. A burden on the Empire, and we can't have that. They're my parents. You can't expect me to- Think for a moment. If you go charging in now, every one of those villagers is as good as dead. We must consider the wider picture. If we act recklessly, we risk alerting the Garlians to our presence here, making it that much harder for us to work with the local rebels. To say nothing of the reprisals ordinary civilians would be made to suffer. Open your eyes, girl. They are already suffering. Let me go. I am putting an end to this madness. I will approach the village alone and identify myself as a former leader of the rebellion and a known fugitive. They will wish to detain me until they are certain they have learned all I know. Use this time to make your plans. So what those monsters did to the villagers? Who knows what they'll do to you, assuming they don't kill you where you stand? We live and die at the pleasure of the Kami. My fate is in their hands and no others. If it be of any comfort, I am no stranger to chains. You can't expect us to stand idly by as a comrade goes marching off to his death. And this is nothing like Kugani. Nor is it like the Reach, Lys. Or the Wall. Let him go. Hold out for as long as you can, but remember, noble sacrifices are to remain an absolute last resort. I wish I could say it won't come to that, but only the gods know how we're going to get you and the others out in one piece. A miracle, perchance. Great Tower stands to the north and east. Look to its occupants for aid and succor. Together, you may yet find your miracle. Now, leave this place. I must go. Another idiot like all the rest. I'm beginning to think it may be something fundamental, something intrinsic, something quintessentially dormant to ignore the simple truth. You can't do a damn thing if you're dead. Huff, Yotsuyo! Well now, this is a surprise. Me, Yotsuyo! Seize this farce, here and now! And I shall surrender myself to you, refuse and all shall answer to my blade. Bring him to the tavern. Our most compassionate acquaintances return. For your deeds, we owe you many thanks. But something tells me our thanks are not sufficient. The strange thing is, I was certain you understood our position, and yet here you are with that same look in your eyes and those same words upon your lips, Elweiger. I speak only the truth. The Confederacy will not be spared Yotsuyo's wrath. You have always known this, that one day you would have no choice but to stand up to the Empire. I say to you that day is today, and come once more to ask that you join us in the fight. How convenient that recent events should lend such credence to your claims. Tell me, do death and destruction always follow in your wake? They had no part in it, Tansui. You notice, we all notice. They came and took our domen brothers. They will torture them for her sport, murder them for her satisfaction. So we attack and get butchered for our trouble, or do naught and let them have their pound of flesh. If this be our choice, I say we suffer the ignimony. We endure, we survive. There is no better path. Until the day our enemy is grown weaker and we stronger, there can be no retribution. We will wait for a sign, such as the judgment of the Confederacy. So that's it then. You're just going to abandon them to her. They'd die for you, you know, for the Confederacy. They would die for you, but you wouldn't even think to risk your lives for theirs. I have one last idea, if you will allow. I'm afraid it's not very good as ideas go. It's exceedingly reckless, in fact, and you may well come to despise me for ever having suggested it. Assuming we survive, that is. The question being, do you trust me? We can't stand by and let innocent people suffer here or anywhere else. I'll do whatever it takes. Then let us roll the dice. If it's a sign you want, we shall give you one. One rousing enough to make you drive every Garlean out of Isari without a second thought. You are wary of invoking the ire of the Imperial forces stationed in Dome, correct? Know then that once we have rescued our comrade and freed Isari, we mean to liberate the nation as a whole. You will doubtless require assurances that we are capable of achieving this, and that is only fair. Accordingly, we shall demonstrate our seriousness by depriving the Garleans of a key ally, the Kojin. What, the three of you just like that? Actually, my esteemed colleague here will attend to it on her own. But the how of it is not your concern, only the outcome. If we succeed, you help us liberate Isari. If we fail, you lose nothing. A simple enough wager. If you have the stones for it. The little miss does make it hard to refuse, does she not? Words are air. We will weigh you by your deeds. Is that light I see up ahead? Appeared to be standing inside a giant bubble. By the twelve. I think we're on the seabed. Well, well, I thought I heard familiar voices. Soroban, what are you doing here? Oh, what a curious question. I live here. Then this is the home of the Blue Kojin. Just so, I bid you welcome to Tama Mizu. Welcome, guests. Gratitude to you for aiding Soroban in his negotiations. We thank you for your hospitality, honoured elder. Pray forgive me my brevity, but I wish to discuss an urgent matter. So, you seek to compel our red brothers to forgo hostilities for a time. That's right. We know your two clans have your differences, but what with you being brothers and all, we thought you might be able to share some secret knowledge or something? From far above, you have journeyed here in search of our wisdom. You shall have it. All creation is a tapestry through which the divine is interwoven. Kami are legion, and they can be found in the great and the small. Though they come and go as they please, they favour certain vessels. The ancient, the precious, the exquisite. We Kojin covered these vessels, these treasures. We go forth and bring them home to keep them safe and bask in their divinity. They bring prosperity and joy to us and our children. Yet, how are we to seek these treasures above? If we made enemies of the Gaelian Empire, powerful and far reaching as they are, wiser to join with them, so resolved the red Kojin. Cautiously and carefully, for the Gaelians are blind to the divine, nor will they suffer their subjects to see. So the red masquerade as mercenaries who seek money and power and never speak of their faith in the presence of their masters. To honour the divine, they deny it. A twisted and misguided path. Aye, aye. Kami will not abide such foolishness. This they shall learn to their sorrow. While our red brothers live by the sword, we blue Kojin uphold the old ways, engaging in trade and valuing peace. Men distinguish not between outlands. And judgment for the doings of the red falls unjustly upon the blue. Thus do men grow more and more reluctant to deal with us, denying us our treasures. This cannot continue. On that point we are in agreement. You are willing to aid our cause then? There is a way that the red may be driven to retreat into their shells, but to share with you this knowledge is to reveal secrets of the divine. Assurances must first be had, trust forged, a bargain struck. Well said, Elder! In great crises is great profit to be had. Delight not overmuch in such things, Saurobon. Now tell our guests what must be done. As you wish. Well, I've no idea what we've gotten ourselves into, but so far so good, right? It is done. Your offerings have been given to the sea. The ritual can begin at last. Come and stand before me, my friends. Yes, yes. Listen to my words and let all else wash away. Listen to my words and feel them flow into your heart. At first a trickle, then a flood. O comey of the fathomless waters of the fallen, the ascended, the flowing and the be calmed, caretakers of the shallows and of the depths. Receive of us our meager offerings, cleanse these ones of earth and stone, and grant them your blessing that they might drink deep of the divine. The ritual is complete, my friends. You may now breathe in the depths as you would upon land. Strange. I don't feel any different. Are you sure it worked? Reasonably, the blessing does have its limits, of course. While it will allow you to dwell in the depths, it will not help you traverse them. I can swim well enough. How about you, Alize? Oh, like a fish, in contrast to my doggy paddling brother. Somehow the boy just isn't very buoyant. Skilled or no, your bodies are ill-suited to the sea. Your cause demands alacrity, and you shall have it. But first, let us take to the water. Incredible. I could swear I was breathing air. Now I shall summon for you noble steeds of great strength. Oh, look at them. I bet they could take us all the way to the deepest depths of the sea. And so they may. After we've won over the Confederacy, rescued Kasetsu, and liberated your respective homelands. Should you become parted from your steeds, return to me, and I shall call them again. Take care, my friends, and may the kami speed you on your way. Find that treasure in no time! Come on! I tire of this filthy tavern, and it's still filthier, clientele. This can't reward for your treachery, I. A painted woman of your rich experience deserves a better class of customer. Name-calling? Is that what we've been reduced to? Orphan of the Nayuri. Widow of Sashi-I. What joy it must have brought you to be revenged upon us all. Not enough. Not nearly enough. My appetite for your agony is, as an abyss, bottomless, insatiable. Before you die, you will cry and beg and prostrate yourself upon the earth. You will crawl on your belly through the muck and the piss, and debase yourself for my amusement. But you think you are made of sterner stuff? Rather than have him beat you, I hope I should have my oath go and fetch your master's head. Ah, poor, poor Lord Kayyan. Kami rest his soul. Noble leader of a fallen nation. A fine puppet he made for the Viceroy. For a time. 25 years he was content to serve his masters as a dog. And then everyone had to rise up and get themselves killed. Tell me, how did it feel to fail him that day? To live with the disgrace of his death? Not that you were a stranger to living with disgrace, of course. And then what was it? 25 years since you were humiliated and tossed into an imperial jail, you had plenty of time to get used to it. Oh yes, I heard the stories. About the samurai who would do anything to return to his master's side, even if it meant pledging his blade to his sworn enemy. They say he walked with death. That he slew a thousand men in the empire's name. Truly a tale for the poets. I do not deny my sins. But I will not be reproached by the likes of you. Oh, I mean not to reproach you, but to praise you. You're a survivor, samurai. Just like. So, let us not dwell on the past, you and I, and instead give thought to the future. To it, I would ask you again to help me resolve this vexing matter of Dorma's missing heir. Living or dead, it makes no difference really, but the Garlean's the most insistent that we put this problem behind us. And I know you helped him flee. So tell me, what became of Lord Hien? To my dismay, the details escaped me at present. May I help your dog could jog my memory. Get on with it and mark me brute. There is no limit to how far you can fall. Of all the bloody stupid. When I get back to Eorzea, I'm going to find that little shite and I'm going to make her pay. Eves, come to steal our most precious treasures. You will pay for this, Stack Village. That's the spirit. Now don't be shy. I'm more than ready for another round. Seize them. What in the world? Bath made our soul. A great commie stirs. Yes, yes. A great commie of the sacred treasures. All great commie. We beseech your intercession. We who have guarded your blade and glanced for generations. Your faithful corgine. Thou didst freely deliver our jewel unto thine enemy's own treasure vault. How auspicious we do commend the daughter of man. Such audacity is deserving of celebration, exaltation, a contest of wills to mark the occasion. Let lines be drawn. Let sides be chosen. And for their loyalty, we shall stand with the caretakers of our greater part. Oh, perfect. A contest of wills. Just what we need. Harken to us, shelled ones. Upon this day your wish shall be granted. Curse neither your fate nor its executor, children of man. For we are of the divine. Of both heaven and earth. The ringing silence. The raging calm. All riseeth and falleth at the whim of capricious fortune. Assume your marks upon the stage, and embrace the coming chaos. Our Susano. And in revelry do we rejoice. That's a primal standing in front of us, right? And a horde of angry cogent at our backs. Ugh, this contest is getting worse by the moment. Lys, help me clear a path. Leave them to us and save your strength. You'll be needing it soon enough. Make way, make way! Oil not your appetite for the feast, children of man. The dish will be served, whether you will it or no. An area peep from the shellbacks, sir. It's enough to make one wonder. The red have sounded the alarm. The Isle of Zeki, under attack. Fierce fighting in the stronghold. The vault breached by outsiders, and strange tales from deep within. All this the red cannot ignore. Even now, they abandon their posts and flock to the Isle. The Garleans are powerless to stop them. I'll be damned they did it. Well, captain, wagers notwithstanding, I dare say we will not have a better opportunity to drive the Imperials from Asari and rescue our men. On the other hand, Nort was put in writing. But if your mind is made up, then that is that. I should add that if you were to change your mind, none would gainsay your decision, nor think you beholden to your past. Nor would anyone begrudge you a spot of revenge into the bargain. Like the little miss said, we knew this day would come. Isari may be a rotting husk, but at least the tavernkeeper never watered down his drinks. Well said for a temperate man. Be comrades! We made a bargain with the Aeosians, and I mean to uphold our end of it. I mean to remind the Garleans that this is our sea, that all here belongs to the Confederacy. All that is theirs is ours for the taking, and take it we shall. We will strip them of everything they hold dear. This one is iron. My hands will break before he speaks. Come and give me strength. Are you good at anything? I had hoped this might prove more productive than blind inquiries, but I see you are determined to waste my time. Very well. Line them up. Kill one for every question he refuses to answer. Hurt them, and you will get nought from me. You have given me precisely that thus far, so what have I to lose? Mark me, Samurai. I will find Lord Hien, be it with your help, or with your heads. Confederacy, you will pay for this! Confederacy, they've come to save us! This after I took such pains to cow them! Even pirates have their pride, I suppose. Enough to march to their deaths, no less. Oh, the stupidity of it all. It truly is a sickness. I shall just have to lance the boil. Drain them of every last trace of honor and compassion. Every last... My lady, I... I'm going outside! The Kami are not finished with you yet. Go and to them! They just keep coming! Then we must be doing something right. We have to hold out for as long as we can. She's counting on us! S-Suzulu is slain! Slain by the shellless one! Is it true? Did you defeat him? Well, in that case, how do you fancy helping us keep the Kogen occupied until the Confederacy make their move? Speak of the devils. That's coming from Isari. I think we've done all we can here. Let's withdraw and make for the village. Right. Although, they don't seem keen to let us go. Eee, Kogen of the Red! We have no quarrel with you, only your imperial masters! All more blood need be shed this day. I pray you let us go in peace! You dare speak to us of peace? Your flesh will feed the fishes, thief! H-trap! Nails our chance. Don't worry about her. She can handle herself. I can't let you take all the glory, can I? Aorzian friends. Saw the smoke, did you? A pity you did not come sooner. Though I gather you were busy elsewhere. Kusetsu, you're alive. You're all alive. And full of him and vigor. Did I not tell you I was no stranger to Jains? The fighting cannot have lasted long. Where are all the Imperials? Fled. They stood their ground for a time, until it became clear that their Kogen reinforcements would not be coming. We took some of the Kogen's men, and we took some of the Kogen's men, who would not be coming. We took some few casualties, but my deeper regret is having led Yotsu you slipped through my fingers. That bodyguard of hers may be a half-wit, but he's a mean bastard on the battlefield. In any event, I imagine all involved are satisfied with this outcome. So far as the Empire is concerned, the Confederacy attacked Osari in retaliation for the Viceroy's actions, and without the aid of insurrectionists, I might add. Suffice it to say, we are prepared to be the subject of their undivided attention for the foreseeable future. An impossible claim, yet one spoken with such conviction that I cannot choose but believe it. Your assistance would be most welcome. Nevertheless, we shall do our utmost to spare you undue danger. We are already in your debt. Nay, little miss, all debts are paid. For by your deeds, many still live who elsewise would not. Let both parties count their blessings and may fortune continue to favour us all. You still seek to bring freedom to our people then? You will go to Yanshar? I have faith that our allies yet live. Once we have found them, we will plan our next step. Yanshar was the crucible of the rebellion. What happened here pales in comparison. To what Yotsuya did there. Remember this, fear changes men. Have care in whom you place your trust. And with that, we must take our wounded home. Oh, your shell-backed friend senses regards and looks forward to your next meeting. Try not to die before then, eh? We cannot rest here for long. This place is not safe. May have no worries if thieves can breach our vaults. Nevertheless, it is our duty to protect these treasures and we shall not fail for want of effort. So, this is why you abandoned your posts? And without a word of explanation at that. Rather thoughtless of you, was it not? Lady Yotsuya, pray forgive us our absence. But our home was under attack. Our vaults plundered by outsiders. Did you even pause to consider the possibility that it might be a diversion? What is the point of contracting your services if you are not here when they are required? It is my solemn charge to bring these vermin to heel. To torment them, body and soul, until all they hold dear is as bitter ashes in their mouths. And then you go and ruin everything! There's not to be gained in belaboring the point. All that remains is to administer your punishment. Wait, my lady! No, no, it's no good. There's just no joy in it. No release. There, there needs to be some investment. There were negligent imbeciles deserving of punishment. But it was hardly personal. Ten thousand such courging could not satisfy me half so well as a single doorman. And what do we have here? One of the vaunted treasures of the Red. The craftsmanship is certainly impressive. May help we can use it to make amends. How long before Lord Xenos reinstates me, do you reckon? I've got unfinished business back in Aorzea. It's serving me really so unbearable. At least pretend to enjoy you, witless lump! If you are so desperate to earn a way back to Aorzea, then be quiet. And do as you're told. And bring that sword while you're at it. I remember the silence. How the talking stopped when we first set foot on the plains of Yuncha. Before I stood yet another wall, and through a great magitech field we glimpsed Doma Castle. I'll never forget the sight, or the anger I felt that day. Life, liberty, hope, so much lost, so much taken. As we walked through that war-torn land, no one said a word. We may be in luck. I don't see a single Imperial soldier. Then there is no need to remain hidden. Let us go and greet them as friends. I'm going to. People of Namae! Harkon to me! We come in peace and desire only information. To learn of recent events. Isn't that the general? Lord Gorset, sir. Can't be preserved, you're right. He lives. I say, brothers and sisters, his ought to miss. Why do you regard me as one with a wild beast? Why is there fear in your eyes? Why do you tremble so? Ah, but of course. You fear me, a vengeful spirit of the dead. Rest assured. Nor could be further from the truth. For am I not corporeal? Are my feet not firmly set upon the ground? What should we do? If they catch him here, you know what will happen. The time's for him to turn up. Does the old fool lost his mind? Why have you come here? What do you want from us? I know not who you are to speak thus to your elder's boy. But my only desire is to be received with a hospitality. Oh, the humble traveler. Not the fear and trepidation one might afford. A wrathful shade. What are you going on about? Actually, never mind. Just come with me. Now! This is the house of the fears. But there are so few of them. Many kindred spirits remain in hiding following the rebellion. Many others gave their lives for their nation. We are a stubborn remainder. We are a stubborn remainder. Even accounting for our comrades in the field, we are at a fraction of our former strength. It is true. Yet we few are patriots. Brothers in arms, prepared to fight with every fiber of our being to set our people free. Ever are we hopeful that others will join our course? But never did I dream that you would journey so far. Gods, it's good to see you. You look great, by the way. Have you been here long? I returned, but recently, having concluded my journey, I have returned. I returned, but recently, having concluded my mission. Oh, it is good to see you again, my friends. Did I hear a right? Did I hear a right? Your mission is concluded. Then you have found the young master. There we speak of that. I would know by what fortuitous circumstance our friends came to be here. The Empire's crimes are all too familiar. Beasts, my heart goes out to your people. Beasts, my heart goes out to your people. We wanted to stay in fight, believe me. But we knew it wouldn't work. We needed more time to rebuild and more allies to stand with us against the Empire. So we decided to come here and help you free Doma, to show you, to show everyone that you're not alone and that the Garlians can be beaten if we work together. I'd like to think we proved that in the Ruby Sea. That you did, Lys, and far more besides, needless to say, your assistance would be most welcome. Here, here. Now then, you're giddy. Tell me of your search for our master. Lest you wonder, he speaks of Lord Hien, son of Lord Cayenne, who perished during the rebellion. When it became clear that all hope of victory had gone, Lord Hien made us deliver as many of our people as we could to safety beyond our borders. But as his father's heir, he was determined to fight on and so he did. Until he suffered a grievous wound in battle and vanished without trace. Until now. For I have found Lord Hien, seen and spoken with him, on the Azim step. O boundless and merciful Kami, the young master lives. Tell me, was he well? Did his wound yet ail him? Where is he now? Have you brought him back to us? You may take comfort in the knowledge that he is hail and whole. However, when I invited him to return with me to Doma, he had this to say. If Doma yet thirsts for the blood of patriots and tyrants, I shall offer unto her my blade. But if she has had her fill of bitter drafts, I shall offer unto her conquerors my head. Thrice did I declare to him that no true son or daughter of Doma would ever accept such a sacrifice. But for all my passion he would not be swayed. Learn the truth of her heart and return to me, he said. And so I left him. Words of one made to wear the mantle of leadership too soon. Yet there is wisdom in them all the same. If the people no longer yearn to be freed would be folly to rekindle the fires of war. To suffer our master, to surrender his life and forsake all hope of freedom is by far the greater folly. I will not go to face my fallen comrades having done naught to stop it. Nor I, Shadow Walker, nor I. But we need not rouse our comrades to battle this day. Let us instead welcome our honoured guests and allow them a moment of respite. Imperials. Why are you milling about like a pack of slack toward mongrels? Form a line! Now! Finally. I come before you today to deliver an announcement of the highest import. So listen well. While on a charitable mission to Isari village, the acting vice-roy and her personal guard came under attack from Confederate forces. This brazen, unconscionable act cannot and will not go unanswered. As loyal subjects of the empire who enjoy her safety and prosperity you have a duty to defend her as well. There is no cause for alarm. We have no intention of sending ill-trained fodder to the front line. Those who are selected will be expected to perform rudimentary tasks. Cleaning and maintenance and so forth. You will serve only as long as you are needed. Afterwards you'll be free to return to your homes. You, you first. The empire has no pressing need of cleaners. This is but a thinly veiled attempt by those who supported the Confederacy's actions and isolate any whose loyalty they already suspect. And lastly, you. That should suffice for now. Don't worry. I will be back before you know it. Listen to the elders while I'm away and do not play outside the village. Everything is going to be fine. I love you, alright? Remember that I love you. We thank you for your cooperation. Rest assured that this will all be over very soon. Once the Confederacy has been made to pay our own ruby tide. There's no telling what might happen to those people. We have to help them. And we shall. But before all else, we must needs ascertain their destination. I doubt this is the first village the Garlians have visited. Nor is it like to be the last. I will track these men. Will you help me? Pray return to our headquarters and tell me what to do. Should we have need of reinforcements, I would know that they are ready. But I should be going with you. I came here to fight. Soon enough, Lys. Soon enough. For now, we must proceed with caution. I know that. I do. It's just when I saw them rounding those people up. Look, if anything happens, anything at all, you'd better call for us. I mean it, you Geary. Anything at all. But you must flee this place quickly. Dealt with them? Oh no. You didn't kill them, did you? Are you mad? There's no escaping the Empire. Running will only make it worse. To stay is to die. You know this to be true. Even if you lack the will to fight, surely you have the will to live. Or has that tube been beaten out of you? Is this what has become of Doma? You were Lord Heian's retainer. Trained to fight without fear and obey without question. Well, we're not. We're lost and afraid. We hate this. All of this. But we can't do a damn thing to change it. And trying will only make it worse. It's a pathetic existence. But it's all we got. And when people like you come here pretending it can be different, it doesn't help. All right? Peace, boy. Peace. She came to help. And for that we should be grateful. Elder, your face. We all have scars. Some too many to bear. Too many battles. Too much lost. Our friends. Our family. Even our liege. We who survived are forced to bend the knee to sell our souls and surrender our dignity. How are we to lift our heads when this shame weighs so heavily upon us? Your courage. Your resolve. They are assaulting our woes. If they only knew what you would do for them, my lord, you have made your plight clear and I shall impose my will no more. But know this, brothers and sisters of Doma. For all you have suffered, for all the horror and the ignominy, you are still here. You are still alive. My lord? My lord, praise you, value your life as highly as he does. As for me, I swear by all the Kami in creation that I will free you from this torment, no matter the cost. If the Imperials come for me, I will tell them we were tricked by an ory woman. Tell them whatever you must to keep your loved ones safe. Why would you, after everything? Forgive me for what I have done and everything. Forgive me for making you search. It calms me, the sound. It helps me to remember the sway of the ocean when I close my eyes. Despite the many great and noble things I said, in truth I am not of Doma. I was born beneath the waves of the ruby sea. To think that you were there, that you even spoke with my mother and father. They are in good health then. The knowledge is of great comfort to me. The time I'd have the strength to protect my home from the Empire, I left to learn the secrets of the Shinobi. Day and night we trained, ever striving to exceed our mental and physical limits. After a time, my skills were recognized and I was dispatched to assist the Domen Liberation Front. It was then that I met Lord and their loyal samurai, Gozetsu. Good men all, brave and true, so clear their eyes, so pure their purpose. Any Shinobi would have been proud to serve them and Doma. But, in the end, I will always be of the sea. Every day, I pray for my home and for the people I left behind. That they might be spared and live in peace, untouched by this madness. I confess this to Lord Hien once. Do you know what he said to me? He said, Good, we are better for the conviction of our allies and draw inspiration from their example. What is weak alone may together grow stronger. Never did I lose faith in them. Even when all was lost and I led our people to Eorzea, I clung to the belief that our dream would one day be realized. But when I gazed into those eyes bereft of hope, when those broken men balked at liberty, the dream was shattered. That you remain resolute even in the face of everything we have seen. It heartens me more than you know. Thank you for standing by this naive fool. An Imperial airship. It is bound for Doma Castle. We must rejoin the others. There you are. What happened? Are the villagers all right? We freed them, along with many others. Kosetsu, we spied an airship bound for the castle. Know you ought of it? Aye, that we do. The crown prince is come to Doma. We suspect this is a result of recent events in Ghir Abania. Our defeat not withstanding, there appears to be some concern in Garlamal that subversive elements may be rallying against us. Though Yotsu you governs Doma, Xenos remains the province's anointing Viceroy, and it would see he has come to assess the current situation in person. If Xenos is here, we must seize this opportunity and kill him. Would that it were so simple, Lady Yugiri? You may recall that we encountered Xenos at Rolga's Reach. We have seen firsthand what he can do. His power defies explanation. He faced the Alliance, the Resistance and the Scions and he defeated us all. We survived and learned from the experience it is true, but if we are to defeat him, it will not be through simple opportunism. We will require a flawless plan. We know his strengths. A prodigious swordsman trained from childhood by the finest imperial tutors reputed to be without equal on the battlefield, which is why we must not meet him there. Nay, we keep to the shadows the domain of the Shinobi and thence we strike. You need only give me the chance. Were this but a matter of personal revenge, I would not presume to buy your path, for I myself crave that same vengeance. But to draw steel against the emperor's son is a grave decision and one that will shape our nation's future. Do not forget, Lord Hien's words. What, that we should sheath our swords or lack the will to fight? I will not squander this opportunity. If we do not, our master's life is forfeit. Even should you succeed, Zenos' death will not wind Doma her freedom. More likely her doom. Can we defend our people against the empire's retribution? We fewer against a legion? Do not be a fool, child! Mayhap, I am a fool with foolish dreams of a future that will never be. I will not forsake them! You hear it, wait! What now? He comes. The village is not far, my lord. If it please you, we shall escort you there directly. There's a province than a graveyard. The rotting husk of a broken nation devoid of proper sport. Ah, but has his radiance wishes? Yes, of course, my lord. And may I say how terribly sorry we are that you had to come so far. We labored long to sow the seeds of hatred of fear, to train them as beasts. Now we shall see the harvest. Let there be savage beasts baying for blood and not hollow-eyed prey cowering in the dark. Or there will be no joy in this hunt. Shinobi? And me without my brute? Weak you are. Is this the sum of your hate? It is only the beginning. For Lord Kaed! For Dorma! May up. I shall test this new blade of yours. Let us hope it is to my liking lest your misfortunes compound. Then again, I am loath to expend such effort on the unworthy. Come, earn the honour. I remember you, Al-Amigo, the champion of the savages. Look ye where the sun doth rise, see crimson embers darkening skies. Look ye where the sun doth fall, see azure lost amidst the squall. How ride I was to spare your life. Hear me, hero. Endure. Survive. Live. Brush of blood. For the time between the seconds, live. For the sole pleasure left me in this empty, ephemeral world, live. You are not worthy. We found them, you imperial dog! No, don't. You must. You must flee. We're not going anywhere. Do you hear me? We're not running away! What you're doing is stupid and reckless and I never wanted any part of it, but here we are! I've spent my whole life hating myself for every time they made me beg, for every time I held my tongue to protect the people I love. And then you came along and reminded me of all the things I never said and never did and it was even worse. I would have given anything to forget to walk away, but I knew I'd never be able to live with the guilt. So we came! All of us! For you! For ourselves! For Donna! Death is death, regardless of the reason. Yet you seem determined to die intruding upon this sacred ground turning weapons you can scarcely wield upon me. Your lives will even begin to redress the balance. How wrong you are! Go now! Gazetsu, situ yukiri! I can't see a damn thing! Someone stop them! My lord? How are you feeling, my lady? Much the better for my comrades' ministrations and your most generous hospitality. You need not worry. Good. There is anything else we can do for the two of you. Anything at all. Just ask. Stare any harder and you'll like to burn a hole in them. Go and say your peace for goodness sake. I've got nothing more to say to them. I'm going to find out how the others are getting on. Gazetsu, Mistress Alyse, I owe you an apology. I acted with reckless disregard for my own safety and endangered I know not how many others in so doing. Scorning your wise counsel, I knowingly defied our master's wishes and left you no choice but to follow suit. Nonsense. I've followed our master's wishes to the letter. Consider once more his words and the intent they're in. In offering his head, he but sought to shield his people from harm, loyal retainers included. You must value your life more highly, Shadowwalker. On the other hand, your recklessness did serve as an inspiration to many. Mayhap you should not be so hard on yourself. In any event, if you must apologize profusely, it seems only right that you expend as much effort thanking the one person who supported your plan from the first. Bet it does. There are no words which will suffice. But thank you. Twelve be praised? When I learned of your rather questionable plot to assassinate Xenos, I feared we would need to recruit a new primal slayer to help you. I'm sorry we couldn't be there. Alize made me swear to stay behind no matter what. I think she was worried I'd hurl myself at Xenos the moment I set eyes on him. You'll forgive me for changing the subject but now would seem a good time to discuss where we go from here. Though the Empire has yet to retaliate, the fact remains that we have revealed our presence and signalled our intentions in so doing. It is only a matter of time before the Imperials move against us. Given that we lack the strength to oppose Xenos, given that we lack the strength to oppose them, Tiz plain some manner of brilliant strategy is required. Therefore, I yield the floor to the preeminent tactician of our time with whom I was privileged to share a wound. If you insist. While in Cagane we debated a number of approaches and were eventually forced to concede that we cannot look to the Alliance for aid. Even were it possible to ferry sufficient forces and materiel from Eosia in a timely manner, such a massive undertaking would not long escape the attention of the Empire. It would be a miracle if our ships reached the shore. Fortunately, according to Tataru and Hancock's intelligence, the Empire has withdrawn most of its forces from Doma in the past year, leaving her relatively unguarded. That being the case, a popular uprising spearheaded by the full might of the Doma Liberation Front may feasibly be sufficient to threaten the conceit of provincial government, namely Doma Castle. It would be rather easier said than done, of course, but I have seen worse plans prevail. Then we must needs meet with Lord Hien and convince him to return, for there is no shorter way to inspire our people to rise up as one. He desired proof of his subjects' conviction and they have provided it through no lesser deed than openly opposing Zenos himself. It will work, it has to work and next time we will defeat him. I would expect no less of Bahamut's conqueror. Prepare the airship. His radiance will not object, we have fulfilled our obligations here. I would see this prize for myself. Do you understand why I appointed you to act in my stead? You, whose only accomplishment was to whisper the right words in the right ear, because of your petty hatreds. They render you the perfect instrument to lead your kinsmen of hope, to make an example of Doma, such as was ordered. Listen well. If you yield Doma to the rebels, you will not be given another chance to beg forgiveness. Do your duty now or die with the rest of them. Are you alright, my lady? That was uncalled for. They say your Aorzion is helping the rebels. I want her dead. I want her friends dead. I want the heads of everyone she knows and loves mounted on the castle walls. You mean... you mean I can finally go after her? I've been waiting for this chance. I promise you, my lady, she won't escape this time. Not this time. Oh, no. Aye. This is the place. When his shade was banished, you swore to leave this life behind. And yet here you are. If this be the work of the eyes, what choice do you have but to end it? Or so the boy would say. Damn you, Alphano. I remember the emptiness. Vast and endless. The azim step. Home to countless roaming tribes. A sacred land. Watched over by elder gods. Here, we would find Doma's salvation. With the wind at our backs, we walked on. In search of hope. In search of him. How goes the search? Any luck? What fortune to meet a friend of the young master. Well met, Serena. If you have an inkling as to the current whereabouts of Lord Hien, we should be most grateful for your assistance. Please. It is I who should be grateful. Hold! What is this? I came first. You second. Know you to whom you speak. All people of the steppe should. Or have you thought so much that you have forgotten the face of your superiors? Superiors? I spit on your superiority, little prince. Twisted and mad as sand devils, your kind are. Those two don't seem to like each other very much. Those boys are of the Oranier and Dothal. The two strongest tribes. The children of Azim are destined to rule. So they declare to all who will listen. Their word is law. For now. Grand flamboyant fighters, but deadly. Very deadly. He prances as a horse, as do his brothers after their many recent victories. The undying ones too are strong. Fearless and vicious. They often reigned in the past. Now they are sorely tested. The master of the markets. He is Kastia. To fight in reunion is forbidden. And to break the pieces to be banished forever. This, he says without words. For words are lies to the Kastia. They do not speak. That's interesting. And all these different tribes share the same lands, do they? No wonder it's tense. I shall look for you on the field at the Nadim. Mark my words. How shall I? May have I shall take eleven more Dothal heads to make a dozen with yours. I look forward to the day. Their dispute will be settled at the Nadim? A great battle held on the final day of the Sahansan. During this time, all bonds of hierarchy are broken. All Zela are equal and free to prepare for the fight. The tribe which triumphs in the Nadim rules until the next Sahansan. Which in these lands is now. Ah, so that is what they call the custom. I presume your tribe will also be taking part? Not all seek the dawn throne. Some are satisfied with their lot. Others, like the Kastia, have reason to remain neutral. Them all are lambs among walls. Long were we content to remain apart and live quietly, never mind that. You seek Yen, yes? I know where he may be. The kami are merciful. My Lord Hien, I see you are alive and well. Ah, you are come sooner than expected. So, my blade or my head? Which would you have of me? The people of Yanshar remain loyal to Doma. I have seen the fire in their eyes. They are ready to rise up and fight. The time is ripe, my Lord. Return with us, blade in hand and lead Doma to freedom. Not less than liberty will suffice then. The pity. It will be far more difficult to deliver than my head. But if my people wish to pursue an impossible dream, then who am I to deny them? You, Giri! Go, Asetsu! And, ah... The Sions of the Seventh Dawn, my Lord. Good and true friends who opened their hearts and homes to us when we fled to Eorzea. Far across the sea they have journeyed to stand with us in the fight for Doman liberation. To oppose the Empire, as they have in the West, where they are lauded as heroes for their many deeds. Say no more, you, Giri. Say no more. I observed how you helped Serena, to whom I am deeply indebted. For that and for the aid you provided my people, you have my deepest gratitude. There is no doubting your strength nor your character. It would be my honor to fight by your side. So, what of Doma? Arise, my friends, and tell me of our home. I have made my decision. You, Giri. I bid you return to Yanshia and take charge of our forces in preparation for my homecoming. As for our esteemed guests, I would ask that you remain here with me. Since you will be of great help in the coming days. Your will is my command, my lord, but how much longer do you intend to stay? Oh, only until I have won the contest? I mean to return at the head of the Zeila army. You mean to participate in the Nardin? Have you a better idea? Consider how soundly we were defeated before. The Imperials may have since grown weaker, but we are weaker still. It would be folly to challenge them by implementing our forces, so, yes, I intend to win the Nardin and enlist the aid of every able-bodied Zeila I can. Furthermore, by championing them all in the contest, I can at last repay their kindness. Lest you forget they saved me from certain death, and a man who suffers such debts to go unpaid is without honor and unfit to lead. Just so, just so. My lord has spoken, you giddy. But take heart, I shall keep him safe. And should it come to it, bring him back by force. This is no laughing matter, Gossetsu. But if these are my orders, very well. Once more I place my faith in you. Pray look after them both. Looks like it's up to us then. Though it does seem a bit risky. Isn't here meant to be the next king of Doma or something? So they say. In truth, I am but a pale reflection of my late father. All the more reason to entreat your assistance. For ours is an impossible dream. To set in motion a revolution that will rattle the very firmament and shake off the yoke of the most powerful empire in the world. Tamarun Hatun. Serena. I am returned. Ah, you found each other. Ours is the soil, Hien. The Domans, and the Aorzians too. You know us. The gods know you, child. As do the stars in the heavens, which shone bright at your coming. The Maul harken to the whispers of the Elder Gods, which guide us in our daily lives. We know them through the Uhtun, like my grandmother. Hatun. I am come to beg a boon of you and yours. That I might liberate my homeland, I seek to rally the strength of the steppe. To that end, I wish to fight in the Nadim, as a warrior of the Maul. Will you grant me this honour? To stand with the Maul is fruitless. Hien, do not do this. The gods may have willed that our tribe join in the Nadim, but there is no path to victory. We are weak and our numbers few. Even with your help, it would be impossible. I thank you for your concern, Serena. But it is precisely because of the singing hopelessness of your cause that we must need cast our lot with you. Were we to join hands with a more favoured tribe, our victory would inevitably be attributed to them. And no one would follow me to Doma. To us the gods will that we fight. May have this too is their design. Hear me then. As Hathun of the Maul, I invite you all to join with us in the Nadim. Will you look after them? Come with me, friends. There is much I would show you. You? Wait. I would have words. A singular radiance. Shimmering. Like a jewel of the dusk mother, blinding in its brilliance. Stars flicker and flock to you. Before such gathered light, even the secrets of the gods may be laid bare. Some are fated to rise in grace and glory. Others to falter and fade, though not from memory. Both will be your strength and salvation come the end. Cherish the stars and the light they bring you in the dark. For you are a traveller. Are you not? She needed the rest to come so far and carry so much. He and his friend too, strange that they should vanish so soon. You are troubled by your old wounds, I see. Nor you by yours. I know I should have fled with the others after Father died instead of blindly fighting on. It was reckless and foolish, and there was naught to be gained from it. Everything to lose, rather. We know no path save the one we walk. I myself am in no hurry to meet those who have gone before, not while I have still to make amends. Well said. You are none the worse for your time in the wilderness. On the contrary, I would say you have improved. Come now, your victory still far exceed mine. Or have you forgotten all the times you trounced me as a boy? Feared I would not see you again. A life so fortuitously saved should be spent wisely. Without regret, would I have traded it for our people's amnesty, had it been their will. Instead, they have called for the sword, and so that is what I must be. Until this blade is broken, I can but carve a path forward. Were you truly so concerned for my well-being? You never showed it when I used to spar. How you cried when you lost, and when your mother tried to comfort you, and when you inevitably came at me once more, swinging your wooden sword wildly. Meena's little master shun. What a fine young man you've become. A man should not be addressed by his childhood name. I've told you about that before. Ah, the mask slips. And I was so close to cultivating a winning persona. There will be opportunity enough for putting on airs after you have returned in triumph to Doma. Now is the time to show our true character. Quite right. Which makes me think you should join us next time. Yes, sir, you have a secret of two of your own to share. Mission accomplished. Everything still in one piece? More or less, I. That mountainous monstrosity came as quite a surprise. Who knew that the steppe held such secrets? I see the two of you are merged similarly unscathed. Well then, by my reckoning, there is not left to prevent us from taking part in the nadim. You! Yay, you who have walked Barden's metal. Newborn warriors of the steppe. Our harn demands an audience. You will come. I remember those clothes. He's Orronyr, isn't he? What should we do? Ordinarily I would politely decline, but this may be an opportunity to assess their strength. And we do have some time before the nadim begins. If it all goes to plan, they will be fighting for us soon enough. What say you? Shall we go and greet our comrades to be? Whatever happens, we shouldn't keep Cyrin and the others waiting. Let's be ready to make a swift exit, alright? We accept your harn's generous invitation. Lead the way. Two banners. So it's not just Orronyr we're dealing with. Most radiant brother, Magni. We have brought the ones you seek. You conquered Barden's metal. As warriors of the mole, I. You were the harn here, yes? Why have you summoned us? May have to propose a joint endeavor? Nay, domen, we shall not speak as equals. Born of the sun are Orronyr, and born of the earth are you. When I learned of trespassers, I bade my warriors take their measure to flay them if they failed. But if by the grace of Azim they should survive their trials and emerge anointed, then bring them hither to pay tribute. Tribute, should it prove satisfactory, shall earn you the favor of the sun. His beloved shall bask in his radiance, and their supplications be duly considered. So you want us to bow down and serve you? What if we don't feel like it? The defiant will suffer in shadow. It would be an affront to the resplendent Azim himself to refuse this generous offer when by rights you should be condemned. But in lieu of tribute, swear fealty to the sun. Pledge to him your body and soul, promise to serve him unto death and you may know his glory. A generous offer granted to but few. The perchance this is too merciful. It seems our brothers of the Bodega want you. The men only. Like the Borlach and women, though you know them not either I'm sure. No matter. All you need know is that you will serve one way or another. That much does indeed seem plain. However, as we are but newborn warriors who know little of your customs, we struggle to conceive of ways in which we might be of service to the most gracious and illustrious sun. You make mock of us, Doman. Do not do so again. You will be given a task. It will be difficult. You will carry it out. When you have accepted this, you may ask me what it is. How he died matters not. Gessa was a great warrior. He will return to us in time. Not soon enough, Hathun. The nadim is nearly upon us. May help we should cancel restraint until after. I do not understand. If Gessa is dead, how should he return? Silence! He come to spy on us, knowing not of our ways. We know you are fearless and that you are called the undying ones. That is true. None are braver than the Dothal, for we do not fear death. With death, a warrior must dance boldly, fearlessly. For thus does his soul burn bright. Then, in death, his soul shines white, exalted. The flesh rots, but the soul endures. And ere the seasons have turned, so he shall return. When he is glimpsed in the eyes of a newborn, he is blessed with the same name, that he may grow into a great warrior once more. You mean to tell me these newborn babes and fallen warriors are one and the same? Madness! I gave you leave to observe, not to insult our beliefs. What you say? Otherwise do as you will. Left for the vouchers, it seems an insult to the man. But the soul lives on, they say. These bodies, no more than empty husks, returning to the earth. Seen through those eyes, I suppose the sight is almost comforting. Pardon me? When first I heard the tales, I could not help but scoff. A queer tribe, I thought, with still queer accustomed. Yet having born witness to their rights, I cannot deny there is a certain logic to it all. A samurai will die for his lord without hesitation or regret. But this is not because he delights in such sacrifice. It's because he has faith that his death will serve a higher purpose. There is an awakening in that instant. When the heart sings, and the blood burns, and his soul, his soul finds peace. There is comfort in that. We dare not permit ourselves that luxury, my friend, tempting though it may be, not while our loved ones yet remain in chains. Well, if there is a way out, I can't see it. Shane, we didn't learn much before they locked us up. To his little wonder, the Oranea won the last nadim. These people leave naught to chance. Yeah, and I've had something on my mind for a while. And now, in Alamego, where I was born, I found it strange that for all the people who supported the resistance, there were just as many who didn't. But then we came to this part of the world and met with the Confederacy and lots of ordinary doments. And almost every single one of them seemed content to just hurt up with things, no matter how bad they got. They all had their reasons, of course, and it's not like I don't understand them, but the thought of it made me so angry. After everything they'd been through, everything the Empire had done to them, how could they not rise up? How could they not fight back? People are pragmatic creatures at heart. They hold on to hope only until they taste true hardship. Then comes fear and regret. Safe and not to dream, they concluded last. For even should a day go by without some new disappointment, the next will only bring more of the same. And so they choose the more sensible of you. They learn to abide the indignities and injustices, the pain and the shame, to accept them as normal. Such is the lot of most men. One cannot expect to spur them to action at a moment's notice. But if one who has known their pain can convince them to strive for something greater and rekindle the fire in their hearts, then they will remember what they have lost. And they will rise. I had someone like that once. I didn't know who I was or who I wanted to be, and he risked his life to show me the way. Then honour him by doing the same for others with all your might and main. You know, when my homeland fell 25 years past, I was still in my mother's womb. Never have I known a free Doma. But my father did, as did many of my fallen comrades, as do many of my people now. It may be no more than a dream to me, but if I do not chase it, then who will? The way you carry it all, you're just the same. Hm? As you? Oh, no, not me. Definitely not me. I meant the Warrior of Light. Out there, somewhere. Doing what needs to be done. I won't have you put me to shame any longer. I'm going to seize the future I want with my own two hands. I see you soil bearers. The soil has been scattered, and the step reborn! Sanctified and unbound, she calls for a new Han! Go forth and claim her, Dothal, and bring death to all who bar your way! It begins, Grandmother. I must say, it's been a while. Is everyone ready? A samurai is always ready! You shall remember this soon enough once I have taken to the field. So we take on all comers, and then it's off to Doma. I can't wait. Thank you, my friend. Upon the soil of one and all shall our deeds be inscribed. Grant us favor, oh mother of the dusk, and to victory, guide the Maul! Spoken. Then the Harnes. The Maul have won! We did it. And you, my friend, you, you were magnificent. Magnificent and, uh, not a little terrifying. What a strange tale this has become. To think I suffered them to live. On your guard, O'Toon, the wind warns of men in iron. But I find you here, Aeosian! Gearest of all my enemies! Today's the day I finally get to kill you. And then they'll give me a shiny medal on my choice of posting. Bloody perfect it is! Well, gone then! Kill them all! Dearest of all his enemies, eh? Congratulations. Harken to me, honored warriors of the steppe. Our enemies intrude upon this sacred ground. Have you yet the strength to oppose them? You forget to whom you speak, Doman. We are the undying ones. We are Dothal. If this be the will of the Maul and their Harnes, so be it. The sun shall abide by the law of the steppe. Possible! She was here for the taking! What do I have to do? I need more men, more weapons, more power! As if we'd lose to the likes of him. And we're only gonna get stronger. Stronger and stronger, until we're strong enough to take back everything they stole. I have kept my promise, Serena. They are yours to command. Brothers and sisters of the steppe. The nadim is ended, and we Maul now claim the dawn throne. No demands shall we make of you. Save these. Heed our comrade's words, and honor the law of the steppe. Before I fought for the Maul, I fought for my homeland, for Doma. To Doma, would you have us go to fight your war and win your freedom? Very well. The battlefield matters not, nor else the enemy. In battle, do our souls burn bright. And better the Maul's law than that of the sun. Arrogant and full hardy were their pronouncements. Already you and your show better sense. The sun shall answer your call, Doman. Wild as the wind, the otoon and her brood may be, but they will deliver you nought. We will deliver you your kingdom. Weak and few as we are, the Maul will fight for Doma too, if you will have us. Well then, I believe nought remains, but to return to Doma at the head of a Zayla army, my lord. I cannot wait to see the look on you, Giddy's face. Not right. We shall depart as soon as our forces are assembled and rejoin our comrades. And then, my friends, we shall bring freedom to the people of Doma! Brothers and sisters, pray forgive me my absence. It has been far too long. Lord Hien, Gossetsu told us of your trials and tribulations on the step. Would that I'd been present to witness your victory, my lord? Our victory, you, Giddy, owed as much to each of my stalwart comrades as it did to me. Now rise. I will not suffer this excess of formality any longer. Alphanol and Alizei lever you, I presume? I'm told we owe you much. It is a pleasure to meet you both. The pleasure is ours, lord Hien. Though we were born and raised the world apart, our values are one and the same. Freedom, justice, liberty. Each of which Doma shall soon enjoy once more. Hopefully. I understand you have brought an army. Indeed. The Zayla tribes of the Azim steppe have pledged their military might to the cause. Good. We, meanwhile, have secured the support of the Confederacy and a not insignificant number of your countrymen. The Blue Kojin too have expressed a willingness to join the fight, provided you agree to certain trade agreements following the liberation of Doma. The Shinobi will render what aid they can. However, Suinosahtoro refused to answer our call. No matter. The forces we have amassed far exceed my original expectations. You have my thanks. You should know that Xenos departed Doma not long after you left to find lord Hien. We know not the reason why, but it would seem he was eager to return to gear Abania. What? Have you heard anything from the Resistance? There hasn't been another attack, has there? Tataru assures me they are quite well. You need not worry. If anything, this turn of events would seem to be to our advantage. But there the good news ends. Yotsu retains her position as acting viceroy, and we have reports that the garrison at Doma Castle is preparing for a massive operation. We suspect that the Empire's attempt to eliminate you on the steppe may have been a prelude to a larger effort to purge the remaining pockets of resistance within Doma. The hour of reckoning is upon us. The Han has spoken. And I, for one, am not inclined to argue. In this place, in this moment, I call upon you all. Twenty-five years of oppression, of tyranny, of shame! It ends with us. We will prevail. If all are in agreement, I will outline my plan to retake Doma Castle. First, Lys and the Doman Irregulars will conduct a series of raids against Imperial targets throughout the surrounding area with the aim of drawing the garrison's attention. Shortly thereafter, our Zayla allies will launch a surprise attack on the castle's airborne defenses. In this way, we will prevent the enemy's airships from rendering support and cut off one means of escape. Alize and I, together with the Shinobi, will exploit the ensuing chaos to infiltrate the moon gates and disable the Magitek Field Generators. Once the barrier is down, we will be free to cross the one river and reach Doma Castle. It is at this point that we must turn to our Confederate and Kojin allies. They will commence to bombard the castle with cannon fire while sailing west towards the Doman Enclave. Wait, the Enclave? Why would you want them to sail away from the castle? Because the Enclave is home to countless civilians. Once pressed, the Imperials may well think to take them hostage and I would feign forstall any such attempt. After we have secured the Enclave, we may lay siege to Doma Castle directly. The main strength of the Doman Liberation Front under Lord Hien's command shall be committed to this endeavor, as will you and your redoubtable allies. The rest is simple. We scour the castle for the Viceroy, we find her and we subdue her. Without their leader, what remains of the Imperials' morale will crumble and they will surrender or attempt to flee. And Doma will be free. Your thoughts, Lord Hien? If any points were unclear or gave you cause for concern, I should be glad to go over them with you. Nay, it is a fine plan. You have a talent for this. That much is plain. We shall carry out Alphano's plan to the letter. Time is of the essence, as you know, so let us each see to our respective preparations. Carry on. May I present the Blue Cogins Emissary? Greetings and well-met old friends. The elder sends his regards. Soroban, it's good to have you with us. If you might, human me, thank you for coming, Soroban. Doubtless you have already been informed of our plans in the role we would have your people play. However, I seek your counsel as a caudging of the Blue. Be it by spell or siege craft. Could your forces destroy the underwater foundations of Dorma Castle's outer wall? Explosives coupled with a few incantations? Yes, that might produce sufficient force. Such a thing could indeed be done. Then I wish to revise the plan. Instead of assisting the Confederacy in securing the Enclave, I would have the Cogin advance upstream beneath the water and breach a segment of the outer wall. I mean to flood Dorma Castle. My lord, the castle is a sacred symbol, the very heart of our nation. To destroy it is unthinkable, unconscionable. You cannot do this. I can and I will if it improves our chances. By flooding the castle, we remove the better part of their forces from the field and force you to retreat to the highest levels of the keep. Tell me that is not a worthwhile trade. But my lord, that castle was entrusted to you by your father and his father before him. I say to you again, it is the heart of our nation. Stone walls do not a nation make, my friend. Her people do. And as long as we yet live, we can rebuild. So let us only think of this battle, or victory here and now. For without that, we have no future. I see that you are resolved, Lord Hian, and I would not presume to gainsay your decision. I will inform the elder of your revised strategy and instruct our sappers to make ready. Our preparations are all but complete. Once we receive word from our Cogin allies, we shall set our plans in motion. We shall fight and we shall prevail. I am awake. I was just, um, well, they threw me out, actually. Told me I needed to get some sleep, ready for the big day. Not long now, eh? I'm nervous, of course, but I also feel like... like I didn't know where I was going, but maybe finally something's gonna change, you know? Really, really change. And when the Duster's settled, we'll see what we've won and what we've lost. I'm going to give it my all tomorrow. Everything I've seen and felt, I won't let it be for nothing. Right, off to bed. Don't want to overdo it, and neither should you. Oh, but before you sleep, you should look in on Elfano and Ali Zay. Quietly, of course. Another restless soul. Come, come. Raise a glass to freedom. Good. Good. I should be interested to know her thoughts on the matter. Ah, that's enough, Gorsetsu. You'll not convince anyone with your drunken ramblings. We've talked about this, all of us. We are flooding the castle tomorrow, and that's the end of it. I know, I know. I accepted your decision, and I do not intend to go back on my word. Nevertheless, as the battle draws near, I cannot help but recall our many travails, and it fair compels me to speak. In all my time serving as a leader of men, there are two failures which haunt me to this day. The first are defeats at the hands of the Empire twenty-five years past and the subsequent imprisonment of your father. Long did I consider offering up my life in atonement, until Lord Kayyan, allowed at last to receive visitors, called for me, of all people. For my unborn child, he said, for my dearest Shun, live. My second failure, of course, was the betrayal of that self-same command. When in the rebellion I failed to protect not only Lord Kayyan, but Lord he and two that I yet live, having known such disgrace, is in affront to the Kami themselves. Yet you, all of you, so fit to grant this shameful creature this failure another chance to serve a greater purpose. Thank you for pitying an old fool. Now, now, it is far too soon for that. Save your tears for the morrow. You may be sure we will have ample cause to shed them, be they for joy or despair. Ah, even that sounds morose. We who yet walk the path should not think too much from the destination. When the hour arrives, we shall welcome what comes with open hours. Here's right about one thing, though. We have you and yours to thank for this chance. All debts will be repaid. On that you have my word. But first we must live past tomorrow, no? If you've no intention of sleeping, you giddy, you may as well join us. Forgive me, my lord, I did not mean to, ah, if that is your will. Understood, wish us luck. Right, you all know what you have to do. Are you ready? Ready to show them what a good job they made of breaking us. Then what are you waiting for? Move out! Why must we waste our time guarding this blasted... Bluminus is under attack! Armed insurgents have breached the perimeter! We need reinforcements! This is Lies, Imperial forces converging on our position. Looks like we've got their attention. We'll be sure to keep them busy for as long as we can. Our to make men kneel before you. There is no better feeling. A pity I must share this pleasure with a feral dog of a dothal. Preening, Oranea. You fear that she will put the sun in shade. Those are for you. Go, claim your prey. Unto me! Come to your death! With each that falls, my soul soars higher! Swiftly, brothers, fall not behind. Make an offering of their steel to Father Azim. They seem to be enjoying themselves. That it should fall so soon! Truly, our allies seem determined to surpass each other. The Magitek field is down. I repeat, the Magitek field is down. Confederate vessels, you are clear to advance upon the enclave. The wall is breached. The cogent will not be outdone. Our allies have set the stage. Now we must take the castle. With me! My lady, the riverside wall has been breached. The lower levels are already flooded and the water is still rising. So I gathered. He would tear the whole thing down all for the promise of freedom. A noble sacrifice or the lastest proflalings of a fool. Speaking of which, how fares my broad? The procedure was carried out as instructed by Lord Alas. By all indications, it was a success. Is that so? Then he may yet be of some use. Devotees of vengeance should rightly pursue their cause unto the bitter end, don't you think? Their hearts aflame with passion until the last few embers fizzle and fade. Leaving Lord? The Viceroy's orders were clear. If Dorma falls, none shall be spared his wrath. Tell the men to fight as if their lives depend on it. Because they do. As you command, my lady. Again they come to make you kneel, to make you grovel and suffer, but you haven't endured their worst as survived. You know their tricks? They will not find a flower simply waiting to be... Have you ought to say for yourself for what you have done to our people, your people? The people, he says. The precious, lordling, beloved by all come to confront the wicked witch. My parents thought me no better. They woke me from dawn to dusk like an ox or an ass or some other piece of burden. Until, that is, my brother spied a chance to transform the family fortunes. And so I was married to vicious old drunk who beat me as he pleased. And when I pleaded for help, I was told to grin and bear it. Only for him, for everyone's sake. They pretended not to notice, but they knew. They knew what did it matter. I was nothing to them. Less than nothing. I wasn't of their flesh. I wasn't a fellow doorman. I wasn't even a person. I might just as well have been dead. And then my husband passed away one day. And so I was sold off yet again to pay his debts. This time, I found a way to live for myself to survive as a spy for the Empire. Those were the days when the scales first fell from my eyes. No longer would I be a slave to my parents or my husband or the pleasure house. I would be free if due compensation. That would be enough, I thought, until I saw a doorman in the road, beaten and broken. My heart skipped a beat, being at my feet, groaning in agony, sobbing in despair, powerless, helpless, hopeless, a vision forever seared into my soul. There was nothing I would not do to feel that joy again, to bend this cruel, twisted world to my wins. Now, having born witness to my life's work, have you ought to say to me? To us kind of you to lend me your ear, my lord. But now it is time for us to conclude our little tether-tet with a final game of chance. Who shall stand, and who shall fall? Let the die be cast. This was her plan from the first, to bring the keep down on our heads. I will remember your words. We must flee, order our forces to withdraw. Oh, my lord, while you still can, I cannot hold it forever. No, we will not leave you behind. Our duty, deliver all here and the others to safety. Now, forthwith, I shall manage on my own. No one leaves. Not you, or anyone else. Tis not, this old friend cannot bear. All of you, the day is one, and the morrow beckons. Do not despair, my friend. Never before have I felt so alive. My eyes uncowded my purpose clear. This is right. Gorsetsu, you never failed us. Not once. You served my father faithfully. And I am a better man for your guidance. And the Doma we built together shall be better for it too. Be proud, my friend. Be proud. I am Shun, more than you know. Cast the die. Gambling was never my vice. How merciful the gods that I should find you in time. Gorsetsu, we must turn back now before it is too late. Eyes forward, Serena. That was his wish. I will deliver you to safety. The others are waiting. We brought everyone here. You were the last to arrive. I see. Thank you. We owe the confederacy a great debt. We have waited 25 years for this moment. You owe us naught. Look! It's Lord Heian! Lord Heian! It's him! He lives! He lives! Some few words of encouragement would not go amiss, my lord. Right. Yes, of course. Right. Off I go. We are a sorry lot. Tired. Dirty. Stinking of blood and sweat and ash. The people pushed to the point of breaking. And yet, we won. The perseverance to endure decades of oppression. The will to carry on the legacy of those we have lost. These were the bonds that held us together and gave us the strength to reclaim our home. After 25 hard years, the shadow of the Empire no longer darkens these lands, and we may at last look forward to the dawning of a new day. But, my friends, it will be a day of work. So I ask you, have you yet the strength to stand, to rise up with me once more? Here and now? And begin to rebuild our homeland? Dharma! Dharma! This will not end with Doma. We will see to that, right, Lise? Right. Indeed. This is but the beginning. The tide is turning, and it shall soon bear us back across the seas, and onward, and to the next battlefield. There you are. All packed and ready to go? To the best of my knowledge, yes. Apologies for the wait. The task of tying up loose ends invariably takes longer than one allows. Happily, however, all now seems to be in order. Then there's nothing left to do but to board the ship. Do try and enjoy the journey, won't you? It may be your last chance to rest for a while. That would depend on the good captain's choice of route. As ever, Tataru, I pray you take all due precautions while making your inquiries. Better to avoid the local authorities altogether than risk a repeat of our Ishgardian episode. And what sordid episode is this, pray tell? Not to speak of, I assure you. You there! Hold that ship! What are you two doing here? Shouldn't you be in Doma? Shouldn't you? You left with nary a word. We half wondered if I had done something to offend. Upon learning that you had departed for Kugane, we immediately resolved to give chase. Our comrades can manage affairs in our absence, and it seemed the least we could do. You mean you came all this way just to say goodbye? That too, I. But there was something else I felt I had to say. You helped us win our freedom, and for that I cannot thank you enough. Accordingly, after we have established an interim government and so forth, I think it only meat that we repay the favour by dispatching our own forces to Eorzea. If you would have us. We harboured no expectations of such generous aid, and as there is no telling when the Empire might strike back at you, would it not be wiser to concentrate your resources on the defence of Doma? I had a mind to pursue a more aggressive defence, to which we will send forth Shinobi to provinces far and wide to spread word of our victory, that we might inspire others to take up arms as we did. Even the Empire has its limits. If the Garlians cannot be certain where and when the next rebellion will take place, how can they commit another force to Doma? And besides, so long as this debt remains unpaid, how am I to face myself? And Gorsetzer? As you wish. I will relay your offer to the Eorzean Alliance. All of Doma is counting on you to finish what we have started. You have it in you, Lys. To seize the future you want, never forget. I won't, Yen. Not your words or anything else. Everything that led us here, that will drive us forward, I'll carry it with me always. And that's a promise. I will hold you to that. Go with them to Eorzea. Tell their people of our triumph and of our pledge to stand with them. By your leave, I shall pave the way for our new alliance. The ship's about to weigh anchor! It seems our time is at an end. Go well, my friends. And may we meet again beneath the western sky. Always knew that woman was unfit for command. Aye, when you think of all the resources we'd poured into that hole, and folk what? The beast yet lives. May happy it is time I sharpen my claws. I wonder... Would you walk into my parlor once more? For Dolorem Lupis, come at the command of the Lord Viceroy to present the prisoner taken by the Crannier Lupi. Xenosie Galvus, I presume. It's true what they say. You do have the eyes of a monster. A ravenous, insatiable fiend. You give the butcher your weapon. My... yes, my lord. My lord. This is... A reward given in recognition of your service, I trust it will prove more capable than its former owner. I swear, I'll not disappoint you, my lord. Good. Now, silence that mulling little piglet. I will not hear another sound past her lips. Until I strip the fat from her. Pray, join me in welcoming our scion allies, but recently return from their mission to the Far East. We have been most eager to hear a first-hand account of your time there, eventful as we understand it was. Very well. Allow me. Such victories are rarely won without sacrifice, but the prize is worth the price. Doma, free after all these years. Bloody hells. Flooding their own castle for a better chance of victory. We could learn a thing or two from that, lad. Our agents report a flurry of communications between Garlamour and Alamigo in recent days. To his plain, they are in the midst of deliberating their response to the Doman uprising. Every imperial unit in occupied territory will be on the lookout for civil unrest. The fear of leaving critical locations undefended will make commanders think twice about committing their forces, giving us a chance to seize the initiative. We have a chance. I may have the last one we're ever going to get. While we've done our best to rebuild the resistance, the Imperials have only increased their efforts to root out sympathizers. If we keep on playing for smaller prizes, it's only a matter of time before they crush us again. And that we won't come back from. A swift advance seems best for all concerned, not least poor Mistress Kryal. Then let us waste no more time. The campaign for Alamegan Liberation begins now. Our first objective will be to capture Castellum Valedina, take the bridge, and the whole of the fringes will be ours. From there we can push east towards the peaks. I name this operation, Rolger's Beacon. For as Rolger once sent his star to guide our ancestors to these lands, so too shall it see us home. It's begun then. Good. It's the waiting that drives me mad. Standing around, knowing what's to come, I'll never get used to it. Calm down, Nargo. You're making her nervous. We've come this far, haven't we? We just need to make it the rest of the way. Right. Looks like the busters went for the bait. The bridge is ours for the taking. Now remember, Nargo, I want you to make for the tower as soon as you see an opening, and get that flag flying. We'll see to the fighting. I won't let you down, sir. Come then. Rolger's star shall burn bright this day. We're running. No more hiding. Let's finish this. Alameego! Alameego! It's not over yet. Let them go, Lees. We've done what we came here to do. That's enough for now. Philodina has fallen? Impossible. Commander, the fourth cohort has been routed. We'll be at the mercy of the enemy's reinforcements if we don't fall back now. The stronger force by far. Don't be taken in by their tricks. Or would you rather tell Zenos you're lost to this rabble? No. But if the snakes betray us in the confusion, we'll have no way out. I'm begging you, Commander. Give the order, or we'll all die here. As common traitors who drank of muddied waters for all the good it did us. Goals with me! The day is theirs, and so is this bastard bridge. Someone bring the snake. It's our first victory, isn't it? And that has to be worth something. Ah, you've come. Welcome, friends, to my village. My home. How fare your people? Good, all things considered. Better than the Enanta at any rate. They've sent an emissary. I'll take you to her. We're here to help. Will you tell us what happened? I... It began with a quarrel between the Imperials and the Calliana. The Calliana are another Enanta tribe, the strongest and the most influential. Unlike the Vera, they want no part of our troubles. They swore fealty to the Empire, and were content to remain within their borders. Just so. The Calliana foresuck their pride and the fight and yielded to Garlamold long ago. But then a new commander was sent to hold the Black Bridge. She demanded the Calliana surrender a hostage, this butcher. Fudola. It doesn't make sense, though. The Vera are the ones working with the Resistance. Why would she threaten the Calliana? Because she is ignorant, like all Imperials. She knows not the difference between Calliana and Vera, nor does she care to learn. I see. All Fudola knew for sure was that the Resistance would come from the West. She reasoned, therefore, that if the Enanta on the East Bank turned their coats, she would be trapped. I take it the Calliana had no choice but to oblige her. No, they did not. The Imperials left with the Calliana broodmother's own daughter, Anamika. Long days and nights, she looked out on the Black Bridge, weeping for her child. Until you came. The broodmother knew at once which way the winds would blow. She and her warriors met with the fleeing Imperials in the road and demanded that her daughter be returned. Bad idea. Fudola's not the kind to take threats lying down. You know her well. The butcher turned her blade to Anamika and bade the Calliana move aside. But the broodmother would not yield. I know where this is going. The Calliana surrounded the Imperials, one of whom, whether out of fear or stupidity, cut the child down. There was naught that could be done. What madness. The true madness was yet to come. For in her despair, the Calliana broodmother cried out for her daughter to be restored to life. She beseeched Sri Lakshmi's intercession. She summoned a primal then and there? That she did, if only for an instant. Bereft of courage and honour, the broodmother sought solace in her faith. The Imperials fled in terror at the sight of the goddess, abandoning these lands to the Ananta. Now the Calliana bid us make pilgrimage to pay proper respects. Yet though we veer a revere Sri Lakshmi as the holiest of the holy, we will not prostrate ourselves before her. And so you turn to us? All who have fought with the resistance have heard tell of the warrior, the icon slayer. I believe we have heard enough. Inconvenient though the timing may be, if a primal has indeed been summoned, we can scarce afford to ignore it. We must need to discuss how best to resolve this situation. Look thee on her face, supplicant. Thy prayer have been answered. Flesh sundered hath been made whole. Blood spilt runner through her veins. Breath stolen filleth her breast. Though she hears not her mother's words, nor sees her mother's face, she silent and empty. Only the vessel may be remade. Not so the flame which flickered with it. Her soul hath been scattered to the forewinds. Thee her promises for what they are. Alize, have you gone mad? I have, but I refuse to stand by and watch yet another tragedy unfold. Who intrudes upon this sacred ground? Imperials, thirsting for blood. We come not to shed blood, but to save you from the false god who would lead you astray. I understand how you feel. You loved her with all your heart, but when the moment came, you still couldn't save her. The anguish, the anger, I know it only too well. But I also know where this path leads. To embrace a primal is to condemn yourself to an endless cycle of despair. You will never know peace. A warm, eaten heart may find peace and serenity in service. In beauty and grace, this hath ever been my promise, nor tells. You tempt them with visions of things that can never be and leave them bereft and wanting. Illusion, however sweet, can change the fact that your daughter is gone. Remember her as she was. Do not suffer this piteous shade to tarnish her memory. For every prayer that primal answers, it'll demand payment in kind. Do you have any idea how many more Ananta will die to feed its hunger for crystals? They would have these suffer, man's spite and live in fear. Far better to dwell in my beautiest dream than in your so uglier reality. She's wrong! We hate the Empire as much as you if you just listen! Poor, misguided children. I would spare you the torments of this cruel and misshapen world. Come, bask in my radiance. Let it fill your hearts and free you from your burdens. Abide in misery, then, fools. The Ananta are more deserving of my blessing. Leave these lands and my dreamers be. I will not warn you a second time. You did it again. You saved them. I just wish I could have been more help. So, it looks like the Ananta did have a mountain of crystals after all. Like every other tribe. Gods are all such slaves to our weaknesses. Mistress! She was our hope! Our salvation! Is there no end to your cruelty? Listen to me, please. I know that you're only trying to protect yourselves because you feel frightened and alone. But that's how we all feel, don't you see? If we could just turn to each other for help instead of the gods, I'm sure we could find a way to live in peace. Your crystals are important to you, aren't they? Reflections of your souls, right? Well, you shouldn't have to sacrifice something so precious to a primal. Who are you to question our choice? You, who fight without fear? We wish only to live in peace. And if this be the price we must pay, then sow it! I know there's nothing I can say to convince you. But I hope that one day you look back and see we only ever wanted the same thing. God damn you! Spare me your hollow words and leave me to mourn. I'll go. But it doesn't mean I'm giving up. Ghirabania is our home too. And one way or another, we're going to have to learn to live together. Come on, Alphanau and Ali's air waiting. Now the savage returns and with her tail firmly between her legs, beaten by beastmen I hear. It was a shameful display, by all accounts. She may have carried the vice from his favor with her bold promises, but in the end, she's just another plodding bungler like the rest of her kind. Strange. You would think him a better judge of character. Then again, I hear she's not averse to a more physical mode of persuasion. I thought she rose through the ranks rather quickly, but no longer. If only she had been content with her lot, she might have lived to see the morrow. Fadola Rem Lupus. Commander of the Cranea Lupi, reporting as ordered. Why do you tremble so? Could it be that the Empire's Butcher is afraid that she who walks with death is terrified of her own? I'm terrified of dying having achieved naught. Gladly would I give my life to win a great victory on the battlefield, had I bit the strength. Alas, you do not. Indeed, you are weak. And born of this weakness is a blind fervour, a raging inferno which threatens to consume not only you, but everyone around you. Yes, my lord. You were defeated by the resistance on several occasions. You misjudged the Anantan, spurred them into summoning an icon. Have you anything to say? I do not, my lord. My failures are my own. I am prepared to accept your judgment. And that is very admirable. However, I've had enough of this dumb show. Give voice to that hunger I see in your eyes or I will pluck them from your head. I want big them pay! All of them! Everyone who ever mocked or looked down on me, I want the power to make them pay! Then I shall give you a chance. A chance to transcend your mortal limits. Assuming that is, you are prepared to wager your life for such power? Transcend, my lord. I came here prepared to die. Tell me what I must do. I remember how they laughed. Alliance and resistance soldiers. Eager for battle. Trading jokes as we marched east towards the peaks. Beyond this last line of defences lay the locks and the city. Breaching it would be no small feat. But we beat the Imperials back. Just like that. And we liberated a village. The first of many. Let us see. Sir, she lives. Impressive. Or merely lucky, though that too may prove a useful trait. My lord, what have you done to me? Though we garlings are intellectually and physiologically superior in almost all respects, we lack the hereditary traits required for the reliable manipulation of Ether, hence our unique inability to wield magics. This deficiency, for want of a better word, saw us subjected to decades of oppression by the lesser races. And we were eventually driven to seek shelter in the cold northern reaches of Ilsebar. Fortunately, said region, was repeat with vast deposits of Ceruleum, which proved instrumental in the development of Magitek. A revolutionary technology conceived to compensate for our disadvantage. It was with Magitek that we grew strong, that our nation became an empire. Yet, ultimately, this was an extrinsic solution to an intrinsic problem. What I wanted was not a crude device to be used in lieu of magic. Through modification of the Galleon genome, I argued that it might be possible to enhance a subject's ability to manipulate Ether, effectively empowering them to wield magics. Alas, my theories were met with consternation in the Imperial Court. Only Lord Xenos, with commendable foresight and wisdom, dain to support my research. You gave me this treatment, but I'm not Galleon. Alamegan, through and through. What you have been granted is far greater than mere magic. Before that lesser light. It is as a second sun. I am informed that Alagiri was recently occupied by the Resistance. And that an attack on Specular Imperatoris is considered imminent. This could provide an ideal opportunity to test her performance in the field. Your... skulls, was it? They have joined the garrison at the Watchtower. Yes, my lord. By your leave, I would rendezvous with them and lead a counter-attack against the Insurgents. No. Even where you to leave now, you would not arrive in time. There is another duty I would entrust to you. Now, Father, you lured the fool onto my blade and do not try to deny it! Our work here is all but done. What of Conrad and his men? They are for the main tower. The skulls have offered this resistance thus far. But Conrad seems to believe he can convince them to lay down their arms. Then we will tend to the stragglers down below. With me! Report. Enemy forces have overrun the lower facilities and appear to be mounting an assault on the main tower. We have already received a request for reinforcements. A unit of legionaries has been mustered and is ready to depart. They await your orders, Commander. Stand down. Commander? Tell them to stand down. Commander, if I may, our people... Your people are still in there. They will be slaughtered. You think I don't know that? I want nothing more than to help Bloody Charged, but I have my orders. Lord Xenos said no reinforcements. They would have us use the main cannon to destroy the installation. Kill our own soldiers? You must be mistaken. May have you'd like to ask Lord Xenos yourself? Initiate the firing sequence. Wars are worn on the backs of the dead. There's and ours. There is no truth but this. We must remain firm and resolute and always, always do our duty. Now, give the order. Initiate firing sequence. Aye-aye. Initiate in firing sequence. Release safety locks. Deploy main cannon. Prutos, eminent. I need you to confirm the target, Commander. Specular Imperatoris main tower, fire when ready. What in the seven hells? Long-range artillery. Those treacherous bastards. Their people were still fighting. Full retreat. Now, relay the orders. Understood. All forces retreat. I repeat, all forces retreat. Conrad. Conrad, speak to me. It was also sudden. Conrad had just convinced the last few skulls to surrender when, when we heard the bang and, and everything started to shake. We carried the survivors to safety but Conrad's, we have done what we can for him. All that remains is to pray. Conrad? Is that you, Lise? I can't, I can't see a damn thing. Well, that's that then. Time's up. What are you talking about? You'll be on your feet before you know it. It's alright, Lise. I've lived long enough. But listen, I want, I want you to lead the resistance in my stead. Don't say another word. You'll recover. We'll recover. We'll bring freedom to Alamigo together. We're not going to stop here. No, you won't. Everything we've built, everyone we've brought together, I know you'll show them the way. You've got it in you, Lise. Not because you're Curtis' daughter or either sister, but because, because you're you. Because, to freedom. I will, Conrad. I will. I promise. We are needed. That's the Cerulean Pipeline! Impossible! How could one man shoot that bastard? Shoot him! My lance has slain far greater beasts. You're welcome, boy. Notify all units! I want that intruder found and get the engineers to fix my bloody cannon! The savages are coming! Are you alright? I think that answers my question. We've accomplished our objectives as well. Lise's unit should be advancing upon the fire control centre in the command tower. Let us join them. Lise! Thank the 12-year-old right. And you. There's the control centre. Let's hit them hard and fast. Ready? It was you, wasn't it? WASN'T IT?! I... I gave the order to fire. It was over! The skulls had surrendered! No one else had to die! And you killed them! Your own people! Your own comrades! You're right! I killed them! Ansford, Rudolph, Emlyn, all the rest, trained and fought with every last one of them, good soldiers to a man. I gave the order that led to their deaths. And I knew exactly what I was doing. Why? Why would you do that? They died so that all Alameagans could live free. That was all we ever wanted. We made a promise that we would do whatever it took so that one day, the Imperials would learn to accept us. But everything comes at a price. And if you haven't got the means to pay, then you pay with blood. Service guarantees citizenship, but citizenship guarantees naught. It's not enough to do you part, oh no. You have to run faster, fight harder, kill more and more and more, and only then will you be equal. That's just how it is out here in the provinces. You buy your freedom with blood. There is no other way. Shut your mouth! You don't get to talk about freedom! You killed your own! They trusted you and you killed them! Murderer! Butcher! Traitor! Gotcha! I know what you can do. I've already seen it. Alize! Even so, the odds are against me. I was invited to join him for the Royal Hunt to be hosted at the palace. You may bring your horde, if you like. All are welcome. She'll be alright, but we'll need to carry her. Will you help me? Thank you. Lise, I leave matters here in your hands. Right. I wanted to show you this house. My house. You mean this is where you grew up? Aye. Not much to look at, is it? Same could be said of the village. It was damn near impossible to live off the land, barren as it was, which is why so many of us traded our plowshares for swords. Swords and uniforms, mind. We became military men. Tensions were rising between Alamigo and the Empire, and there was always a need for more soldiers to watch the border. It was only a matter of time before the first skirmishes broke out. It's a frightening thing to face Magitek Armour for the first time. But, after a lot of trial and error, I found ways to bring them down. After a few victories, people even said I had a knack for it. And then one day they hit us. Hard. I was wounded and sent home to recover. Back here. Will you remain silent for fear of the Mad King's vengeance? Of his eyes and ears in the shadows and his knives in the dark? You who call this living dishonour our nation. It is but a slow death. Liberty or death. Liberty or death! If this be your creed, then raise up your hands. Raise up your voices. Together we will tear Theodoric from the throne. Together we will reclaim our freedom. Send you home to mend, did thee? Aye, sir. Garlion's got the better of us. The...the chirurgians say I'm healing well. So it won't be long now. Liberty or death, is it? Tell me, soldier. What do you think those words mean? We...we must need to be willing to die for Liberty. Spoken like a true patriot. But Liberty should not be the end in of itself. Liberty is a chance to build something better. A stronger, more prosperous home for our people. It's not quick or easy work. And it is never truly finished. But if you neglect it, then sooner or later, you look up to find you've traded one tyrant for another. Well, sir, I've never asked for much. Never wanted to live like a king. I just wish it were a little bit easier, is all, for me and everyone else. And I'm...I'm willing to die for that, if that's what it takes. Dying is easy, soldier. Living is harder. Rest, mend. Regain your strength. You'll need it in the days to come. And may at one day we will need it too. Conrad chose you as his successor, Lees. And I will not gainsay his decision. I have but one question to ask. Liberty or death? Those were Curtis' words and his creed. Will you swear by your father's creed before your comrades and the gods? Liberty or death, that's all you can hope for in war. Father understood that. And you want to know if I do too? I swear to you, here and now, I will fight until the end. Be it liberty or be it death. But the freedom we win must be for every Alamegan. Even ones like Fordola, though they may hate us. And the Ananta, though they may fear us. We'll fight and we'll talk. And we'll find a way to make it work for all of us. Commit all that. Or are you taking our home? A good oath. And there is not else to say. You are indeed your father's daughter. I'm sorry to have kept you waiting. Well, what do you think? I know it's a bit old-fashioned, but in a traditional sort of way, Eda wore it whenever she could. Not that I'm pretending to be her or anything. Not again. It's just... If this is the last battle we fight to free Alamego, then she ought to be a part of it. It's nice of you to say so. And a bit embarrassing. But mostly nice. Another reason I asked you here was to sneak in a warm-up before the final battle. There's this place I know where monks used to spar as part of their training. Care to join me? I remember my father's words. How they rang in my ears as we left Castrum Abania behind and looked out over the locks before us. Comrades brave and true, they had come from all across Aorzia to stand with us. To stand against oppression and tyranny. Twenty years the Empire had ruled us, but no longer. Liberty or death. Liberty or death. There we begin. I would say to you as a proud son of Alamego that I am grateful to each and every one of you for your part in this endeavor. To the heart of the matter. The enemy appears content to remain within the city walls and await the inevitable siege. Open conflict has been sporadic thus far. Whether Xenos is biding his time until reinforcements arrive or attempting to bait us into a trap, none can say. We know better than to trust his word. Regardless, we can ill afford to present Garlamold with a chance to ready her legions. It would be in our best interest to press for a swift resolution. A long siege wouldn't be good for the people in the city either. If food becomes scarce, we know he'll starve first. Just so. Therefore I propose we commit our forces to an all-out assault, would say you. To it seem we are of one mind. And let us proceed to the how of it. The immortal flames will form the vanguard supported by the archers and the conjurers of the Order of the Twin-Adder under the Elder Seedseer's command. Once the main host has cleared a path to the walls, we will bring forward the artillery of the Maelstrom and the Temple Knights. I would have your cannons pound the gates and punch a hole right through the middle of their defenses. What about the resistance? Your part will be to occupy the residential district and keep civilians out of harm's way. The people are more like to trust their own. Of course. You can count on us. Remember that there is a second entrance to the city proper there. If all goes to plan, we will have secured two points of entry. Once both objectives are complete, we press on into the city, surround the palace and hunt down Zenos. As for the science, you will be held in reserve as an irregular unit until we have more intelligence on your captured comrade. Kryl's rescue will be your primary concern, but a deser will find a use for you once her freedom has been secured. Thank you, General. I pray we find her quickly. Rolger's beacon nears its end. Soon, my friends, Alamego will be ours once more. I know everything. I cannot lose. I will not. But you will. Without your tricks, you're nothing. Mephrid, your own comrade, I should kill you here and now for what you did. But there's no place for that kind of justice here. Not in my Alamego. Oh, how very bloody noble of you. Are you pardoning my sins, will you? After you and your freedom fighters come and tear down everything we've worked so hard to build, we were fighting for our people's freedom. Mr. Attirant, there's no freedom in that! Now, my friend, touching as this moment is, it will have to wait. We should rejoin the main force at once. Lys! I'm taking her back with us, alive. She's going to answer for what she's done. Listen to you. Talking like you've already won. Xenos is gonna tear you apart. He commands a power. Echoing that of the icons. What are you talking about? The hunt, you stupid cow. I'm talking about the hunt! He said you'd come. And here you are, his willing prey. You and your friends are dead. Just like mine. And all our misery, all our sacrifice, it was all for Lys! No. You're gonna live long enough to see us win our freedom. I promise you that. May I live a thousand years. Interrogations can wait. Let us be off. Ah, the heroes of the hour. Not content with securing the residential district, you gifted me an imperial commander. What are you after, a medal? The work is its own reward, General. I must say, however, that Fordola's claims were not a little disturbing. What manner of power could Xenos have acquired that might equal an icon? Might she speak of our missing Omega? Very possibly. The Empire's fondness for comparable Alagan technologies is exceedingly well documented. Have we made any progress with our own investigation? None. The search goes on in earnest, but Sid has thus far found nothing of note. May help the Galleons beat us to it. If they were working desperately to repair the machine, that might explain their decision to remain within their walls. Ah, Lys. I trust you surrendered for Dolla into custody without incident. We were just discussing the pilots' claims. About Xenos and his newfound powers. She hasn't said a word on this subject since we rescued Kryl, even when the interrogator asked nicely. May help I can offer some insight into her claims, or at least into the facility and the experiments they conducted during my time there. Though my memories of the period are somewhat muddled, there are a few things I remember with painful clarity. Thancred told us only that for Dolla had undergone some manner of treatment. Yes. It is a place wholly dedicated to the creation of enhanced beings, whom they refer to as the resonant. As I understand it, the process aims to imbue a test subject with the qualities of an individual with demonstrated magical aptitude. This entails... This entails the mechanical extraction and transfusion of some manner of primordial essence. That's how For Dolla improved so fast. I knew there had to be something. She wasn't half as strong or quick to predict my attacks when we first met. If it weren't for Orianja's siphon thingy, I really don't think we'd have beaten her. My humble scheme asked far more in the execution than it required in the conception, I do assure thee. Oh, you've got to stop doing that. In calling upon Lady Alize after her defeat, I was most intrigued to learn of the apparent effortlessness with which For Dolla countered her attacks. T'was as if she knew the blade's destination ere its journey began. A most impressive feat under any circumstances, but an almost miraculous one when considered in the context of For Dolla's unfamiliarity with my lady's arts. How then could she so perfectly predict an unknown opponent's every move? After much deliberation, I surmise that For Dolla may be possessed of a preternatural ability to divine meaning from the fluctuations of an individual's aether and to instinctively react. To employ a metaphor, one might say that she was attuned to the whispers of my lady Alize's soul. Wait, have you not just described a manifestation of the echo? I had no conclusive proof. The available anecdotal evidence suggested only that For Dolla was uncommonly sensitive to aetheric fluctuations and was this which led me to develop my strategy. I would fashion a device with the capacity to generate a massive disruption in the surrounding aether. If, as I suspected, For Dolla's senses were indeed questing for the most minor of oscillations, the shock of exposure to a more amplitudinous aetheric waveform would be akin to a debilitating bout of aether's sickness. How ingenious. I note that the success of your plan hinged on your device's wielder remaining ignorant of its purpose, lest For Dolla divine your intent. Indeed so, Master Alfino. All things considered, it was a most fortuitous outcome. That's putting it mildly. In any event, if Ariange is correct, that would mean these resonant have been granted the power of the echo via artificial means. A sobering thought to say the least, and one which makes me wonder what else Xenos has in store. Whatever the Viceroy's newfound powers, I know of none better equipped to face him. And face him, you must. For there is now but one path forward, and it leads straight to Alamigo. And it's not as if we came unprepared. All our friends and allies fighting for the same thing. Honestly, right now, I feel like we could take on anyone and win. And I mean anyone. Exactly. Oh, I wouldn't want to be in Xenos' boots. Not with the likes of us coming to get him. Right, I'd best get back to the residential district. Thancred and the Resistance forces are waiting. It is time we joined the main host. Kryle, in light of your recent ordeal, might I suggest that you remain with the Reagard for now? Oh, if you insist. Just this once. Ah, you are returned. Were your negotiations with the Wolfmen successful? The one they called the White was receptive to our words once we told him of Doma's liberation. They withdrew behind the walls to inform their brethren. If the gods are good, no blood shall be shed between our peoples this day. Now, I think it's time we did something about those gates. Vatages, forward! Fire, give me a freed bloody inferno! Less than winter, enough ice and snow to bury a behemoth! Witness my Aorzian brothers and sisters. Doma has come to pay her debts. Lord Heian. Fill with the flying machines. Forward, my friends, for freedom and justice! And let's resume firing. We're through. The way is clear. Yes. Such ferocity. Such tenacity. I am loath to recall how disappointed I was when first we fought. Finally, after bathing in the blood and awful of your enemies, finally you prove yourself worthy prey for the hunt. It fills you even now, doesn't it? The hunger. To bite down on my Jaguar. To feel the warmth, feel your mouth and run over, even as you drink deep. Good. This is the beast I have longed to face. As you sharpen your claws, I too sought newfound strength. But this is no place for a final contest. Come. The heavens shall bear witness to our dance. Welcome to the Royal Menagerie. The King of Ruin built this place for his foreign queen. He kept it filled with familiar creatures from her homeland. They bored me all. This fine specimen, on the other hand, is simply divine. Your fates are entwined. Are they not, Iconslayer? This dragon, this embodiment of unbridled despair. All of a desperate man's burning hatred for the Empire. How raw the raging tempest that churns within its breast. No myth made manifest this, but a being of pure violence. May I help you are the true architect of our design. You, who fought the very soul of vengeance to the edge and watched him fall. You, who let slip the elegant hound to drive this icon into my arms. Oh, why have I said too much? Forgive me, this sensation is wholly unfamiliar to me. A question then, and I should like very much for you to speak from the heart. If I were to stand aside, what would you do to this icon? You would not indulge me even with a simple reply then? You think only of the fight to come. How alike we are. A pity. There is another alternative. Or there would be. Had you only mastered your abilities? I speak of the Echo, of course. Does it merely render you immune to iconic influence, or is it rather that your influence is far greater than theirs? Granted, these implications are of no moment to a savage who thinks only of killing the beast before him. When I read Van Belsaar's reports, I immediately saw the boundless potential of the Echo. I saw how it could be instrumental in binding an icon to one's will. Hence my research and the resonant. I know so much more. All icons must be exterminated without exception. Such was the imperial mandate issued by my great-grandfather after he saw firsthand the destruction wrought by one such being. They are a blight upon this star, he felt. And so he began his great and just crusade. It was not justice which spurred his campaign, but fear! Fear of the icons, fear of their power. Cowardice made them much worth the battle. Man should fight for the joy of it. To live, to eat, to breed, lesser beasts snap and howl at one another for this. Only man has the wisdom and the clarity to embrace violence for its own sake. We who are born into this merciless, meaningless world have but one candle of life to burn. I know you, Ulless. You and I are one in the same. Together we could wile away the quiet hours as friend and comrade if you accept me. Are we to embrace and let bygones be bygones? Do our deeds weigh so little that you would cast all aside? Come. It was plain from the first how this would end. Live for these moments when all hangs in the balance when the difference between life and death is but a single stroke. I live for them too. This is who we are, my friend. This is all we are. Alamigo and Doma and Garlamal be damned above the gods. You, by your gift, I, by a resonant, the gods shall be made to kneel. Hunters, indeed, become the hunted, and yet there is only joy, transcendent joy that I have never known. How invigorating, how pure this feeling. That what this was all about. All the meaningless death and destruction so you could feel something. Meaningless. Men die that others may live. Those who survive are stronger for it. Not that you could ever understand. To have stood upon this great stage of fools. To have played my part of affection. Oh, this, this moment. Let it be enshrined in eternity. My heart beating out of time. So clear. So vivid. So real. So real. Farewell, my first friend. Where is he? He's dead. By his own hand. Then justice has been done. No. There's no justice in that, in that rabid animal's end. Liberty or death. That so many should be forced to take up this creed to defeat such madness. We won, forget him. The living have need of us now. Stand tall, Lys. Now is the time to raise a cheer for all who fought for freedom. Is it clear loud enough to carry to the highest heavens? You're right. Thank you. Without you... Well, you know. So let's do it together. For Alamego! In Crimson it began. And in Crimson it ended. And then... And then we were free. But what is freedom, really? We may be free to live. To love. To grow old. To have dreams and desires. And to strive for them. But in the end, we're defined by the legacy our forefathers bequeathed to us. Even Xenos was once a baby in the cradle. Innocent and pure. He was made into a creature that lived only for death. Not born one. Twenty years of imperial rule have left Alamego torn and bleeding. It won't be easy to heal a generation's worth of wounds to bridge the gap. But I won't give up Papalimo. I won't. Because I remember the price of freedom. I remember the smoke and the ashes and the blood. I remember the screams and the silence. And I'll do whatever it takes to honour their sacrifice. To build a home for us all. I promise you. This is the end. The end of the imperial province of Alamego. And the rebirth of Alamego. The free nation. Long may she endure. What a fine mess we've made. All but spent feeding that primal, eh? Well, you won't be making any mischief with that amount of ether. Still, better safe than sorry. There. There ends your hateful legacy. We've been through a lot together, haven't we? I can't thank you enough. There's something I need to say to you all. That is, if you have a moment. Good. You're all here. Good. Good. Thank you. Doesn't really suffice, does it? I'm grateful. Truly grateful from the bottom of my heart. But I know you didn't fight so hard just to hear me or anyone else say that. You fought because you wanted to help, because you believed it was right. Because you're Scions. Now, I'm obviously a Scion, but as Conrad left me in charge of things here, I also have responsibilities to Alamego. When I put it like that, though, I realized I couldn't even pretend to be impartial anymore. So it seemed best to make it official. As long as I serve Alamego, I can't be a Scion. It might be selfish and short-sighted, but that's my decision. Am I to understand that you summoned us all, some of us still nursing wounds, to hear this? Oh, I, I, I didn't, um... Forgive me, Lees. It was but a jest. But this I say with the utmost sincerity. Scion or no, we are comrades. Now and ever after. Is that not so? There you have it. Come what may, you may count on us in your hour of need. We shall never refuse you. Stola? Oh, gods. I swore I wouldn't cry. Back here, you slippery little devil. I think fishing could be so difficult. What greater proof of a man's lingering mortality than an empty belly? A fate worse than death. To have arrived at the appointed place and time only to survive by mere force of habit. Truly, the Kami are not finished with us yet. Precious fortune. How you test me with this wretched soul.