Hold on... I hear something.


... What is that mechanical voice?

Whatever it is, it sounds like bad news for us.


Whatever it is, it sounds like bad news for us.

It’s a very large, suspiciously vacant chamber. He he, what do you think, Elynia?


It’s a very large, suspiciously vacant chamber. He he, what do you think, Elynia?

... And, now we’re trapped. How predictable.


... And, now we’re trapped. How predictable.

I know. Let us be on guard for whatever those voices were talking about.


I know. Let us be on guard for whatever those voices were talking about.


—Uria be damned!

Hey, that conspicuous glowing orb embedded in its torso seems important!


Hey, that conspicuous glowing orb embedded in its torso seems important!

Yes. It must be the very thing we have been searching for. Our timing couldn’t be any worse... Destroy it! Destroy it at all costs!


Yes. It must be the very thing we have been searching for. Our timing couldn’t be any worse... Destroy it! Destroy it at all costs!

This appears to be causing some damage to the beast!


This appears to be causing some damage to the beast!


Very well — let’s do some more!


It’s working! Strike it down now!


—Malin? Are you all right?

This... this place is not doing me any good... There is a greater force at work in here, pulling our souls into it...


This... this place is not doing me any good... There is a greater force at work in here, pulling our souls into it...


I should be able to heal you, just—

I don’t think that will help for long. I’m going to lend you a hand while I can...


I don’t think that will help for long. I’m going to lend you a hand while I can...


The energy is filling the place!


We? What about you?!


I? What about you?!

Surely you realize that I am well past my time to roam this earth — I am as old as a fossil, and our little fight with Elyssa and Argan in the frontier between Inferno and Irdya has truly had a long-lasting effect on my powers... The power that’s consuming this place now is tearing into my very soul... It hurts.


Surely you realize that I am well past my time to roam this earth — I am as old as a fossil, and our little fight with Elyssa and Argan in the frontier between Inferno and Irdya has truly had a long-lasting effect on my powers... The power that’s consuming this place now is tearing into my very soul... It hurts.


But—

You and I... we have many followers from diverse backgrounds. I am sure that, should you need a new necromancer to help you, many will be willing to take up my position. Just make sure to not get yourself killed and don’t forget that you are here fighting for a greater cause, one that transcends the fate of Irdya.


You and I... we have many followers from diverse backgrounds. I am sure that, should you need a new necromancer to help you, many will be willing to take up my position. Just make sure to not get yourself killed and don’t forget that you are here fighting for a greater cause, one that transcends the fate of Irdya.

(<i>in tears</i>) Argan’s journal... Where is it?


(<i>in tears</i>) Argan’s journal... Where is it?


Kyara—


Malin...


How could I let this happen? NO!


We must get out of here.


I must get out of here.


That way...


The spell... I must use the spell...


I...


My lady, we have been looking for you! We have just received excellent news—


She’s not dead.

B— but, the Wesmere facility was vaporized after the destruction of the core!


B— but, the Wesmere facility was vaporized after the destruction of the core!

That’s right, but she is not dead. I can feel her. I don’t know where she is, but she’s certainly not dead.


That’s right, but she is not dead. I can feel her. I don’t know where she is, but she’s certainly not dead.


She’s not.

I believe the Norsulans haven’t resolved the contamination issue yet. It’s not the best moment to make risky choices like that with our limited resources; we need to reclaim some land and complete the construction of the other hives.


I believe the Norsulans haven’t resolved the contamination issue yet. It’s not the best moment to make risky choices like that with our limited resources; we need to reclaim some land and complete the construction of the other hives.


As for the original...

She said we should not do anything with it yet.


She said we should not do anything with it yet.

I see. Well, that’s all I wanted to know.


I see. Well, that’s all I wanted to know.

Don’t forget that you have a mission to carry out, too.


Don’t forget that you have a mission to carry out, too.

I am aware, <i>my lady</i>. I am well aware.


I remember hearing of the mandate issued to destroy the Sceptre of Fire back in the day...

I’m curious about why you decided to betray your people by keeping the Sceptre’s core to yourself, Elynia.


I’m curious about why you decided to betray your people by keeping the Sceptre’s core to yourself, Elynia.


That’s nothing of your concern.

It is not, really? Because to me, it seems that you carry with you a dangerous artifact that these people <i>need</i> for some vaguely-defined purpose that will most certainly bring no good to this world! Destroying it would be the most logical choice right now.


It is not, really? Because to me, it seems that you carry with you a dangerous artifact that these people <i>need</i> for some vaguely-defined purpose that will most certainly bring no good to this world! Destroying it would be the most logical choice right now.

... I beg to differ, but with the Union gone it may well be the only great power remaining on Irdya that we could use to fight Uria and the Iron Triad, unless you know something I am not aware of — which I find unlikely.


... I beg to differ, but with the Union gone it may well be the only great power remaining on Irdya that we could use to fight Uria and the Iron Triad, unless you know something I am not aware of — which I find unlikely.

This isn’t the best moment to argue over this.


There seem to be some hostile animals ahead. I’d better move carefully...

I think I can see a village to the northeast...


I think I can see a village to the northeast...


Halt! Who goes there?

Don’t pay any attention to that — it’s just another of those disgusting forest creatures.


Don’t pay any attention to that — it’s just another of those disgusting forest creatures.


But she’s injured—

It’s a trick! They lure you into the dark to do whatever they please with your dead body—


It’s a trick! They lure you into the dark to do whatever they please with your dead body—

... I need help. Could any of you please—


... I need help. Could any of you please—

Begone, unless you want us to slice your throat open!


Begone, unless you want us to slice your throat open!


What’s going on here?


Chief, this lass here, she—

You look oddly familiar. What’s your name?


You look oddly familiar. What’s your name?


I am Elynia, the—

The Lady of Light, as I recall. You weren’t of much help to us in the country.


The Lady of Light, as I recall. You weren’t of much help to us in the country.


... Excuse me? I don’t know you.

Of course you don’t know me, because you and your friends were too busy battling the dark soldiers to help us civilians in Ardgam. That was my hometown, and my family was trapped, helpless, amidst the fire. What’s your purpose here, and why should we help you??


Of course you don’t know me, because you and your friends were too busy battling the dark soldiers to help us civilians in Ardgam. That was my hometown, and my family was trapped, helpless, amidst the fire. What’s your purpose here, and why should we help you??

I would like to know where I am, and if it would be possible, I’d also like some help to get to the Grand Council. This is a matter of the utmost importance...


I would like to know where I am, and if it would be possible, I’d also like some help to get to the Grand Council. This is a matter of the utmost importance...


—Are you even listening to me?!

I don’t feel particularly inclined to help you — at least not right now. If you really need to get to those useless elders, you are on your own. We don’t have any time for this nonsense, as we need to defend <i>our</i> town by our own means right now.


I don’t feel particularly inclined to help you — at least not right now. If you really need to get to those useless elders, you are on your own. We don’t have any time for this nonsense, as we need to defend <i>our</i> town by our own means right now.

It feels like I’ve been in a similar situation before...


It feels like I’ve been in a similar situation before...

Can you help us? I know our leader appears to be very resentful of you, but it’s said that the evil mage Daent has returned from the land of the dead to get his revenge upon us, for banishing him from the village. The rumors of the power he has amassed since then are terrifying.


Can you help us? I know our leader appears to be very resentful of you, but it’s said that the evil mage Daent has returned from the land of the dead to get his revenge upon us, for banishing him from the village. The rumors of the power he has amassed since then are terrifying.

Hm... Well, I may be able to provide you with my assistance if you would help me in exchange. Really, I’m not asking for much.


Hm... Well, I may be able to provide you with my assistance if you would help me in exchange. Really, I’m not asking for much.

We can’t make any promises, faerie. Our leader isn’t that kind of person — you’ll have to figure out how to solve your problems on your own.


We can’t make any promises, faerie. Our leader isn’t that kind of person — you’ll have to figure out how to solve your problems on your own.


So be it, then.


Argh! I’m done for.

I don’t suppose these people would want to help me now that they are leaderless...


I don’t suppose these people would want to help me now that they are leaderless...

Thanks for your absolutely useless help, faerie.


Thanks for your absolutely useless help, faerie.

Arise! Arise once again, fallen warriors of times long past! Arise!


Arise! Arise once again, fallen warriors of times long past! Arise!

Ah, you have been sent by my brother to destroy me, isn’t that right?


Ah, you have been sent by my brother to destroy me, isn’t that right?

Well, less chatter and more action, I say! You all shall embrace undeath soon, no matter whether you want or not!


Well, less chatter and more action, I say! You all shall embrace undeath soon, no matter whether you want or not!

Ahhh, you think you can destroy me, don’t you? Well—


Ahhh, you think you can destroy me, don’t you? Well—


Enough of this.


That wasn’t too hard.

Heh. I admit I didn’t expect this to work out with a faerie leading those impressionable fools.


Heh. I admit I didn’t expect this to work out with a faerie leading those impressionable fools.

Well done, everybody. As for you, faerie... What is it that you needed from us again?


Well done, everybody. As for you, faerie... What is it that you needed from us again?

I also have a name, as I told you before.


I also have a name, as I told you before.

I suggest that you get to the point before I change my mind.


I suggest that you get to the point before I change my mind.

But sir, her help in defeating the undead was...


But sir, her help in defeating the undead was...

I need to know exactly where I am, and I must also meet with the Grand Council of the Northern Peoples as soon as I may, for which I could need some help depending on our location.


I need to know exactly where I am, and I must also meet with the Grand Council of the Northern Peoples as soon as I may, for which I could need some help depending on our location.

I see. Well, we also need to arrange a meeting with the Council for our own purposes. Sending some of our most capable hunters with you along with our messengers might not be a bad idea after all, as you seem to excel in the arts of healing and the northern forests are not particularly safe nowadays.


I see. Well, we also need to arrange a meeting with the Council for our own purposes. Sending some of our most capable hunters with you along with our messengers might not be a bad idea after all, as you seem to excel in the arts of healing and the northern forests are not particularly safe nowadays.


Frankly, when the village chief said ‘capable’ I was expecting something better.

It’d be a grave mistake to underestimate us, lass. Life ’round here ain’t easy these days, and we have to be prepared to deal with anything.


It’d be a grave mistake to underestimate us, lass. Life ’round here ain’t easy these days, and we have to be prepared to deal with anything.

I’m well aware of that, having lived in the wilderness myself before, but these are mostly novices and untrained youths!


I’m well aware of that, having lived in the wilderness myself before, but these are mostly novices and untrained youths!

The chief wouldn’t want to send off veterans on the chance that our home is attacked again. Anyway, we’d better get going. Look out for the trolls that control this road — they hunt unwary travelers and eat them alive.


The chief wouldn’t want to send off veterans on the chance that our home is attacked again. Anyway, we’d better get going. Look out for the trolls that control this road — they hunt unwary travelers and eat them alive.

Blast! I wasn’t counting on this happening!


Blast! I wasn’t counting on this happening!

Reck don’t like humans on his base. We smash them!


Reck don’t like humans on his base. We smash them!


Reck dying... and don’t know why.

That big troll was hoarding a considerable amount of gold in these ruins.


That big troll was hoarding a considerable amount of gold in these ruins.


I hear some commotion ahead...

Drop everything you’re carrying with you gal, and we <i>may</i> spare your pretty neck!


Drop everything you’re carrying with you gal, and we <i>may</i> spare your pretty neck!


We don’t have time for this—

We can’t just leave that poor girl at their mercy! We must help her!


We can’t just leave that poor girl at their mercy! We must help her!

(<i>sigh</i>) Of course, that’s what I was planning to do anyway.


(<i>sigh</i>) Of course, that’s what I was planning to do anyway.

Alas! I never got a chance to see the great towers of the capital!


Alas! I never got a chance to see the great towers of the capital!


We shouldn’t have let this happen!

Oh, thank you for saving my life, sir, I’ll be forever grateful! Is there anything I could do to repay you?


Oh, thank you for saving my life, sir, I’ll be forever grateful! Is there anything I could do to repay you?

Hm, actually, it is this lass here who is leading us...


Hm, actually, it is this lass here who is leading us...


Oh, I see! I beg your pardon, my lady.

May I ask what business brings a young girl like you to such a dangerous location alone? What’s your name, anyway?


May I ask what business brings a young girl like you to such a dangerous location alone? What’s your name, anyway?

I’m Allyna of Dalbloom, from the eastern border. It’s a very tiny village, so you may not have heard of it before. I was sent on a mission to deliver an important message to the Grand Council of the—


I’m Allyna of Dalbloom, from the eastern border. It’s a very tiny village, so you may not have heard of it before. I was sent on a mission to deliver an important message to the Grand Council of the—

Sure, we also need to deliver our own messages to them. I would strongly suggest that you join us — it’s a miracle that you have made it this far through these uncivilized lands in one piece. What do you think?


Sure, we also need to deliver our own messages to them. I would strongly suggest that you join us — it’s a miracle that you have made it this far through these uncivilized lands in one piece. What do you think?

Yes! —I mean, if it doesn’t bother you, of course. Sure it is uncivilized around here — I don’t think I have ever seen a town get ransacked like that before...


Yes! —I mean, if it doesn’t bother you, of course. Sure it is uncivilized around here — I don’t think I have ever seen a town get ransacked like that before...


What are you talking about?

The bridge town ahead was captured by a large armed band. I turned back as soon as I could, but some of their brutes chased me, and then I found you!


The bridge town ahead was captured by a large armed band. I turned back as soon as I could, but some of their brutes chased me, and then I found you!

Sounds like we may have to cleanse the town a bit before proceeding, then.


Sounds like we may have to cleanse the town a bit before proceeding, then.

Good plan. Gods, I never thought Talwyn would fall like that...


Good plan. Gods, I never thought Talwyn would fall like that...


No! All our efforts have been in vain!


Onwards we go, to the capital!

So are you truly the Lady of Light? I’ve heard many amazing stories about you! Do you mind if I ask you some questions?


Finally, the walls of Raelthyn! It’s a pity it’s too dark to see the glory of the capital city!

I have been here before. Now, let’s move.


I have been here before. Now, let’s move.


Halt! Who goes there?

I’m a humble messenger from the small village of Suthwood in the Heart Forest. We came here to meet with the Grand Council.


I’m a humble messenger from the small village of Suthwood in the Heart Forest. We came here to meet with the Grand Council.


You and who else?


Seize the traitor!


Traitor? Who?

Exactly what in the world is going on here?


Exactly what in the world is going on here?

You, faerie, are accused of betraying the Alliance of the Peoples of the Far North, leading an elvish faction found to be collaborating with our enemies in times of war, and disclosing vital tactical information which jeopardizes the safety of the Aragwaith country and our allies.


You, faerie, are accused of betraying the Alliance of the Peoples of the Far North, leading an elvish faction found to be collaborating with our enemies in times of war, and disclosing vital tactical information which jeopardizes the safety of the Aragwaith country and our allies.

Certainly, this must be some kind of misunderstanding... I would never shift my allegiances against what’s best for the free civilizations of Irdya!


Certainly, this must be some kind of misunderstanding... I would never shift my allegiances against what’s best for the free civilizations of Irdya!

Imprisoning her will not be necessary. Allow her to come to the Grand Council.


Imprisoning her will not be necessary. Allow her to come to the Grand Council.


But, my lord...

A trial won’t be required either. She’s been framed by the enemy.


A trial won’t be required either. She’s been framed by the enemy.

Elynia, we have been eagerly awaiting your return. It’s been a long time...


Elynia, we have been eagerly awaiting your return. It’s been a long time...

Lord Arnesius, it’s good to see you again. Something terrible has happened...


Lord Arnesius, it’s good to see you again. Something terrible has happened...

Yes, yes... Valen has told us everything, and there’s more you need to know as well. Come with us.


Yes, yes... Valen has told us everything, and there’s more you need to know as well. Come with us.

My Lord, I— our messengers were promised an audience with the Council as well...


My Lord, I— our messengers were promised an audience with the Council as well...

That will have to wait while we discuss some war matters, but since you have come from so far protecting her, you may also come and listen.


That will have to wait while we discuss some war matters, but since you have come from so far protecting her, you may also come and listen.


We’d like to start by apologizing for our actions, or more accurately, our lack thereof. Had we understood the importance of your mission to Zocthanol we’d have sent a whole fleet with you, and Galas’ demise could have surely been avoided.

I... I don’t think that would have made a great difference. The storm that caught us was a trap set up by our enemies.


I... I don’t think that would have made a great difference. The storm that caught us was a trap set up by our enemies.

As soon as we got word of your plan to assault the Wesmere hive on your own, we sent a platoon in your aid, but their path was obstructed by those Shaxthal creatures, who took over the Bay of Glamdrol to the south-west.


As soon as we got word of your plan to assault the Wesmere hive on your own, we sent a platoon in your aid, but their path was obstructed by those Shaxthal creatures, who took over the Bay of Glamdrol to the south-west.

By the time the soldiers arrived, it was already too late. Not only did we not find you or the lich Mal Keshar, but the plains had completely disappeared.


By the time the soldiers arrived, it was already too late. Not only did we not find you or the lich Mal Keshar, but the plains had completely disappeared.


But... disappeared?

Everything vanished at the center of the explosion from which you escaped. The hive, the rocks, the clouds — everything had completely disappeared, according to the reports we got. The area surrounding the massive crater turned into a vast ashy desert devoid of any traces of life, artificial or otherwise. They also said the air itself had turned thin as in the tallest peaks of the Heart Mountains. We could only assume you had also been caught in the explosion and were destroyed along with the necromancer.


Everything vanished at the center of the explosion from which you escaped. The hive, the rocks, the clouds — everything had completely disappeared, according to the reports we got. The area surrounding the massive crater turned into a vast ashy desert devoid of any traces of life, artificial or otherwise. They also said the air itself had turned thin as in the tallest peaks of the Heart Mountains. We could only assume you had also been caught in the explosion and were destroyed along with the necromancer.

With the ongoing war, we couldn’t spend much time or resources in searching for you, so we decided to seek assistance from a seer who could tell us what happened and why. That’s when we found Valen, who has been of great help to us this past year.


With the ongoing war, we couldn’t spend much time or resources in searching for you, so we decided to seek assistance from a seer who could tell us what happened and why. That’s when we found Valen, who has been of great help to us this past year.


Hold on...

That isn’t possible! A year? But— it has been— it has been less than a month!


That isn’t possible! A year? But— it has been— it has been less than a month!

For you, my lady, time only continued to flow after the point you reappeared in our country’s borders, but for us, time has gone by as usual. It’s been a little more than a year since the destruction of Wesmere.


For you, my lady, time only continued to flow after the point you reappeared in our country’s borders, but for us, time has gone by as usual. It’s been a little more than a year since the destruction of Wesmere.

We suspect you were at the very center of the explosion, which may have caused an anomaly that brought you forward in time.


We suspect you were at the very center of the explosion, which may have caused an anomaly that brought you forward in time.

... Actually, it may be my own fault. I used a teleportation spell I had just learned, without mastering it first, just as I felt as though my very existence had come to an end...


... Actually, it may be my own fault. I used a teleportation spell I had just learned, without mastering it first, just as I felt as though my very existence had come to an end...

But the entire place vanishing doesn’t make sense... How could that happen?


But the entire place vanishing doesn’t make sense... How could that happen?

There are many things we still haven’t learned about our enemies that are, perhaps, essential for putting an end to this war.


There are many things we still haven’t learned about our enemies that are, perhaps, essential for putting an end to this war.

Where’s Kyara? And Horo? We sent them to you after securing the Chaos outpost in Wesmere!


Where’s Kyara? And Horo? We sent them to you after securing the Chaos outpost in Wesmere!

I fear we have never heard those names before.


I fear we have never heard those names before.

Assuming they stumbled upon the same class and number of enemies as our men did, it’s very likely they didn’t make it.


Assuming they stumbled upon the same class and number of enemies as our men did, it’s very likely they didn’t make it.

If you can provide me with more information, I may be able to find out what occurred to them, but it will take time.


If you can provide me with more information, I may be able to find out what occurred to them, but it will take time.

While Valen was trying to determine your whereabouts, new riots took place between the elves in the lands to the east. There are rumors of a certain rose-haired faerie allying herself with the leaders of the Chaos Empire, which is why you and your people have become rather unpopular amongst our peers.


While Valen was trying to determine your whereabouts, new riots took place between the elves in the lands to the east. There are rumors of a certain rose-haired faerie allying herself with the leaders of the Chaos Empire, which is why you and your people have become rather unpopular amongst our peers.

The elves are once again divided and fighting their own kinsmen on the eastern border of our country, but one of the factions is clearly at an advantage thanks to their alliance with the Empire. We suspect they may be planning to invade us next, taking advantage of the tight situation on the southern borders.


The elves are once again divided and fighting their own kinsmen on the eastern border of our country, but one of the factions is clearly at an advantage thanks to their alliance with the Empire. We suspect they may be planning to invade us next, taking advantage of the tight situation on the southern borders.

Furthermore, it is said a great explosion took place in Glamdrol a few days ago. We haven’t received any confirmation yet, but we fear it’s of a similar nature to the one which destroyed Wesmere. If that’s true, then we have just lost our largest western garrison.


Furthermore, it is said a great explosion took place in Glamdrol a few days ago. We haven’t received any confirmation yet, but we fear it’s of a similar nature to the one which destroyed Wesmere. If that’s true, then we have just lost our largest western garrison.


I see...

It’s of utmost importance that the situation in the east is cleared up. The friendly elvish faction has asked us for aid, but as it is now we are unable to gather the complete Council to come to an agreement. We currently don’t have many men to spare, so it has been suggested that you could lead a militia in order to assist them, and hopefully discover the identity of this mysterious impersonator.


It’s of utmost importance that the situation in the east is cleared up. The friendly elvish faction has asked us for aid, but as it is now we are unable to gather the complete Council to come to an agreement. We currently don’t have many men to spare, so it has been suggested that you could lead a militia in order to assist them, and hopefully discover the identity of this mysterious impersonator.

I think I’ve had enough experience with leading militiamen in the forests for my liking, and I highly doubt they could stand a chance against those demons and biomechanical creatures.


I think I’ve had enough experience with leading militiamen in the forests for my liking, and I highly doubt they could stand a chance against those demons and biomechanical creatures.


Eh?

It was never our intention to send you alone with barely-trained fighters. Amongst your messengers was one of Mal Keshar’s very own disciples, a woman by the name of Zynara. She’s willing to assist by leading a new undead horde against our enemies for you.


It was never our intention to send you alone with barely-trained fighters. Amongst your messengers was one of Mal Keshar’s very own disciples, a woman by the name of Zynara. She’s willing to assist by leading a new undead horde against our enemies for you.

If you agree to help us, we will also make sure to keep you informed of any important events from the main battle front, sending you messages through Valen. You’ll also be able to communicate with us this way.


If you agree to help us, we will also make sure to keep you informed of any important events from the main battle front, sending you messages through Valen. You’ll also be able to communicate with us this way.

There’s a very important journal we retrieved from the Chaos capital, and Mal Keshar told me before his destruction that he passed it to Kyara, the desert elf, in case neither of us would make it back from the hive. It is my hope that she and Horo are still alive somewhere, or that at the very least they passed the journal to another trustworthy person. I will agree to lead the expedition on the condition that you also do your best to locate it.


There’s a very important journal we retrieved from the Chaos capital, and Mal Keshar told me before his destruction that he passed it to Kyara, the desert elf, in case neither of us would make it back from the hive. It is my hope that she and Horo are still alive somewhere, or that at the very least they passed the journal to another trustworthy person. I will agree to lead the expedition on the condition that you also do your best to locate it.

That’s a fair deal, although I would first like to know what this journal contains that makes it such a great priority for you, over your reputation and people.


That’s a fair deal, although I would first like to know what this journal contains that makes it such a great priority for you, over your reputation and people.

Mal Keshar didn’t get a chance to talk with me about the contents of the journal besides the location of the hive, where the heart of Yechnagoth was supposedly stored. Before his destruction, he referred to “a greater cause, one that transcends the fate of Irdya” — I have a feeling that it’s about something he read in it. The journal was written by the Chaos Emperor himself, so the information within should be accurate and relevant for our purposes.


Mal Keshar didn’t get a chance to talk with me about the contents of the journal besides the location of the hive, where the heart of Yechnagoth was supposedly stored. Before his destruction, he referred to “a greater cause, one that transcends the fate of Irdya” — I have a feeling that it’s about something he read in it. The journal was written by the Chaos Emperor himself, so the information within should be accurate and relevant for our purposes.

That is, assuming the heart of the colossal creature we destroyed in Wesmere was truly Yechnagoth’s.


That is, assuming the heart of the colossal creature we destroyed in Wesmere was truly Yechnagoth’s.

I’ll do whatever it takes to find out about that journal, my lady.


I’ll do whatever it takes to find out about that journal, my lady.

Very well, then. Tomorrow we’ll provide you with further instructions for your mission. We’ll talk with the messengers from Suthwood now.


It’s really been a long trip. Are we there yet?

No, but we should reach Dalbloom in the middle of the night if we keep our pace and don’t stop to rest.


No, but we should reach Dalbloom in the middle of the night if we keep our pace and don’t stop to rest.

Ah, if you only knew how to use the Ruby’s power to its full extent, we could have avoided all this.


Ah, if you only knew how to use the Ruby’s power to its full extent, we could have avoided all this.


Right. But—

<i>(disconcerted)</i> You can’t possibly know about the Ruby of Fire! Who are you?


<i>(disconcerted)</i> You can’t possibly know about the Ruby of Fire! Who are you?

I’m sorry for lying to you. I really like you, but... I needed you to come here.


I’m sorry for lying to you. I really like you, but... I needed you to come here.


An impostor!

No, I simply needed to disguise myself as a helpless human girl so I’d be allowed to travel with you and guide you to this place.


No, I simply needed to disguise myself as a helpless human girl so I’d be allowed to travel with you and guide you to this place.


The Lady of Light.


It is an honor to meet you.


What do you want from us?

We just want your staff, or to be more specific, the gem decorating its top: the Ruby of Fire.


We just want your staff, or to be more specific, the gem decorating its top: the Ruby of Fire.

You already tried this once and didn’t succeed; what makes you think this time will be any different?


You already tried this once and didn’t succeed; what makes you think this time will be any different?

Actually... I presume you speak of someone else?


Actually... I presume you speak of someone else?

My lady, we are wasting precious time here! Let us purge the Northlands of this blight!


My lady, we are wasting precious time here! Let us purge the Northlands of this blight!

The power of the Ruby of Fire is too great and too evil for it to fall into the wrong hands. You fiends shall not obtain it as long as I live!


The power of the Ruby of Fire is too great and too evil for it to fall into the wrong hands. You fiends shall not obtain it as long as I live!

So be it, then. I was hoping to achieve something with a more civilized approach, but I guess diplomacy has become a thing of the past on this world as well.


So be it, then. I was hoping to achieve something with a more civilized approach, but I guess diplomacy has become a thing of the past on this world as well.

I’m truly sorry. It wasn’t my intention for things to come to this.


I’m truly sorry. It wasn’t my intention for things to come to this.


What... was that?

I’m not sure. There’s something very... unusual about these demons, aside from the fact that there are two faerie beings allied with them.


I’m not sure. There’s something very... unusual about these demons, aside from the fact that there are two faerie beings allied with them.


Did you all hear that?

That’s the sound of bad news — Shaxthal creatures are approaching.


That’s the sound of bad news — Shaxthal creatures are approaching.


They have arrived!


Curse Uria! They have found us!

Those metallic beasts don’t seem interested in us as much as they are interested in our foes, but why?


Those metallic beasts don’t seem interested in us as much as they are interested in our foes, but why?

Lady of Light, I’d like to call a truce. These creatures are our enemies too, and we don’t really want to get involved in a slaughter.


Lady of Light, I’d like to call a truce. These creatures are our enemies too, and we don’t really want to get involved in a slaughter.

Why should my side accede? Don’t you all work for Uria?


Why should my side accede? Don’t you all work for Uria?

We don’t! We are struggling <i>against</i> her!


We don’t! We are struggling <i>against</i> her!

My lady, those demons cannot be trusted! They must be staging a trap, posing as enemies of Uria!


My lady, those demons cannot be trusted! They must be staging a trap, posing as enemies of Uria!


My lady?


My lady, you must decide now!

Let us cooperate with these strange demons and repel the Shaxthal incursion before they infest the countryside. We’ll decide what to do about them later.


Let us cooperate with these strange demons and repel the Shaxthal incursion before they infest the countryside. We’ll decide what to do about them later.

This is ridiculous! My master must have overestimated your ability to command!


This is ridiculous! My master must have overestimated your ability to command!

Your master would have been destroyed if Galas and Anlindë hadn’t been at the command of the elvish troops. They gave him a chance to redeem himself. If it weren’t for that, none of us would be here today discussing this.


Your master would have been destroyed if Galas and Anlindë hadn’t been at the command of the elvish troops. They gave him a chance to redeem himself. If it weren’t for that, none of us would be here today discussing this.


Very well, let’s do this!

My people! Now that Uria knows we are plotting against her, they are doomed without my guidance!


My people! Now that Uria knows we are plotting against her, they are doomed without my guidance!


Yes! We did it! We did it together!

Am I right in assuming that the village of Dalbloom doesn’t truly exist anymore, and it’s just the name of an ancient stronghold from the times before the Fall?


Am I right in assuming that the village of Dalbloom doesn’t truly exist anymore, and it’s just the name of an ancient stronghold from the times before the Fall?

That’s right. We needed you to come here, away from the Alliance’s troops, and away from the Chaos forces. Or at least, we <i>thought</i> they would not be roaming around these parts. It’s alarming that their war beasts have come this far within the human country.


That’s right. We needed you to come here, away from the Alliance’s troops, and away from the Chaos forces. Or at least, we <i>thought</i> they would not be roaming around these parts. It’s alarming that their war beasts have come this far within the human country.

May I know why you believe acquiring the Ruby of Fire will do good to your cause, whatever it is?


May I know why you believe acquiring the Ruby of Fire will do good to your cause, whatever it is?

My lady, Elorran is one of the few demon lords who refused to heed Uria’s call to war against the good peoples of Irdya. He came to me seeking support for his mission. Our intention was to contact you and destroy that artifact you hold.


My lady, Elorran is one of the few demon lords who refused to heed Uria’s call to war against the good peoples of Irdya. He came to me seeking support for his mission. Our intention was to contact you and destroy that artifact you hold.

According to what Anya heard, you set foot in the Kalari stronghold once, and confronted the Iron Council. You know well by now that the Ruby isn’t a mere piece of magic jewelry, but you may still be unaware of the full extent of its power. Long ago, a group of human sorcerers created it and killed Irdya’s Gatekeeper, the creature that was charged with the task of guarding the entrance to Inferno. That disaster and the unexplained disappearance of Inferno’s very own Gatekeeper on the other side eventually brought this world to Uria’s attention.


According to what Anya heard, you set foot in the Kalari stronghold once, and confronted the Iron Council. You know well by now that the Ruby isn’t a mere piece of magic jewelry, but you may still be unaware of the full extent of its power. Long ago, a group of human sorcerers created it and killed Irdya’s Gatekeeper, the creature that was charged with the task of guarding the entrance to Inferno. That disaster and the unexplained disappearance of Inferno’s very own Gatekeeper on the other side eventually brought this world to Uria’s attention.

The many Gatekeepers were created from the ancient Guardian of Secrets, Uria’s sister. They were assigned to different locations to protect them from external interference, preventing anything from entering or leaving Inferno. Uria has figured this out, and she wants the Ruby of Fire to create a path to allow her to enter and invade a world much like yours, called Ethea. We do not know yet what her motives are — there may be something there which she could use against the few remaining gods who may oppose her.


The many Gatekeepers were created from the ancient Guardian of Secrets, Uria’s sister. They were assigned to different locations to protect them from external interference, preventing anything from entering or leaving Inferno. Uria has figured this out, and she wants the Ruby of Fire to create a path to allow her to enter and invade a world much like yours, called Ethea. We do not know yet what her motives are — there may be something there which she could use against the few remaining gods who may oppose her.

To that end she is using Irdya to test her forces and breed a massive army of biomechanical creatures for use against those who will defend Ethea.


To that end she is using Irdya to test her forces and breed a massive army of biomechanical creatures for use against those who will defend Ethea.

Although some of us think the right being <i>could</i> use the power of the Ruby to destroy or incapacitate Uria, nobody wants to run the risk and unwittingly deliver the artifact to her by failing in such a suicidal mission. Hence we want to destroy it.


Although some of us think the right being <i>could</i> use the power of the Ruby to destroy or incapacitate Uria, nobody wants to run the risk and unwittingly deliver the artifact to her by failing in such a suicidal mission. Hence we want to destroy it.


We really need your help...

The Ruby of Fire— this staff, originally owned by my master, the Great Sorceress Niryone... it belongs to me. I have sacrificed much keeping it away from those who could threaten the future of the peoples of Irdya. Surely we can thwart Uria’s plans in a different way.


The Ruby of Fire— this staff, originally owned by my master, the Great Sorceress Niryone... it belongs to me. I have sacrificed much keeping it away from those who could threaten the future of the peoples of Irdya. Surely we can thwart Uria’s plans in a different way.

We aren’t the only group that has stood against her rule, but we are one of the few to survive to this day. We’ve seen her real power, and only the wielder of the Union could possibly stand a chance against her — if only that power hadn’t fallen into her hands following your short incursion into her territory.


We aren’t the only group that has stood against her rule, but we are one of the few to survive to this day. We’ve seen her real power, and only the wielder of the Union could possibly stand a chance against her — if only that power hadn’t fallen into her hands following your short incursion into her territory.

What do you mean— she cannot use that power, right?


What do you mean— she cannot use that power, right?


Not yet...

What she expects to find on Ethea may be another artifact that could enable her to wield the Union.


What she expects to find on Ethea may be another artifact that could enable her to wield the Union.

I’m not convinced destroying the Ruby is the solution. What if there’s an equivalent somewhere else on Irdya, or on another world?


I’m not convinced destroying the Ruby is the solution. What if there’s an equivalent somewhere else on Irdya, or on another world?

That’s a risk we’ll have to take. As things stand right now, Uria <i>is</i> more likely to obtain the Ruby than any other alternative in order to accelerate her plans.


That’s a risk we’ll have to take. As things stand right now, Uria <i>is</i> more likely to obtain the Ruby than any other alternative in order to accelerate her plans.

The elves... the people whom I swore to protect ages ago need me at this very moment. Let me use the power of the Ruby once more, and then we’ll make sure it will never be used again.


The elves... the people whom I swore to protect ages ago need me at this very moment. Let me use the power of the Ruby once more, and then we’ll make sure it will never be used again.

My lord, we won’t be able to convince her to do otherwise.


My lord, we won’t be able to convince her to do otherwise.

<i>(sighs)</i> Your tenacity has not gone unnoticed, Lady of Light. Uria knows you are a formidable enemy, albeit notably foolish at times. Do what you feel is right, and then come back to us as soon as you may so we can put an end to her plans together. Anya will go with you; her necklace will allow you to find us, no matter the distance or the time.


<i>(sighs)</i> Your tenacity has not gone unnoticed, Lady of Light. Uria knows you are a formidable enemy, albeit notably foolish at times. Do what you feel is right, and then come back to us as soon as you may so we can put an end to her plans together. Anya will go with you; her necklace will allow you to find us, no matter the distance or the time.

I will... go with her? Yes! I mean... if that’s not a problem.


I will... go with her? Yes! I mean... if that’s not a problem.

We are heading towards a war zone and we welcome the support of every man or woman who can wield a weapon, cast a spell, or tend to the injured. However, I am... unsure about allowing a young girl like Anya to accompany us.


We are heading towards a war zone and we welcome the support of every man or woman who can wield a weapon, cast a spell, or tend to the injured. However, I am... unsure about allowing a young girl like Anya to accompany us.

You might underestimate her now because making use of her magic before would have blown her cover, but I assure you, she is an excellent spellcaster under the right circumstances.


You might underestimate her now because making use of her magic before would have blown her cover, but I assure you, she is an excellent spellcaster under the right circumstances.

Don’t say that! It’s rather embarrassing...


Don’t say that! It’s rather embarrassing...

Very well, Lord Elorran. I swear I will do my best to keep the Ruby away from our enemies.


Very well, Lord Elorran. I swear I will do my best to keep the Ruby away from our enemies.

Dealing with demons... (<i>sigh</i>) This can’t end well...


Dealing with demons... (<i>sigh</i>) This can’t end well...

I would like to keep our pact a secret between us. Even if the Grand Council understood, there seems to be a fair chance they could fall and provide Uria’s henchmen with information about our plans. No-one should speak of this.


I would like to keep our pact a secret between us. Even if the Grand Council understood, there seems to be a fair chance they could fall and provide Uria’s henchmen with information about our plans. No-one should speak of this.


Understood, my lady.


Understood...

Well, let’s continue onwards. Hopefully we won’t come across any more interruptions.


Well, let’s continue onwards. Hopefully we won’t come across any more interruptions.

There is an army of hostile elves approaching... Things would have worked out much better if this Lady of Light had not turned out to be such a dreadful disappointment as a leader and a tactician.


There are so many different flowers in this field! It’s beautiful!


Indeed it is.

My lady, there are encampments ahead, apparently occupied by elves! This doesn’t look right!


My lady, there are encampments ahead, apparently occupied by elves! This doesn’t look right!

Certainly not — they shouldn’t be this close to Aragwaithi territory, so I presume they belong to the hostile faction. Everyone prepare for battle, and let’s hope for the best.


Certainly not — they shouldn’t be this close to Aragwaithi territory, so I presume they belong to the hostile faction. Everyone prepare for battle, and let’s hope for the best.


May the Lords of Light protect us...

I wish we could just entirely avoid casualties, but that’s not going to happen.


I wish we could just entirely avoid casualties, but that’s not going to happen.

I fear for the fate of the elves who sent that call for help to the Council...


I fear for the fate of the elves who sent that call for help to the Council...

Who is it that dares defy the power of the Lady of Light?


Who is it that dares defy the power of the Lady of Light?

You, I presume. I am the only Lady of Light that there is on Irdya, and you have been deceived into fighting against me and the Grand Council of the Northern Peoples in favor of a dark cause, one that betrays the memory of our civilization and our leaders.


You, I presume. I am the only Lady of Light that there is on Irdya, and you have been deceived into fighting against me and the Grand Council of the Northern Peoples in favor of a dark cause, one that betrays the memory of our civilization and our leaders.

You are nothing but a blatant impostor working for the human bastards — a dirty, treacherous impostor!


You are nothing but a blatant impostor working for the human bastards — a dirty, treacherous impostor!

Take her back to the encampment! I need to ask a few questions...


Take her back to the encampment! I need to ask a few questions...


I refuse to answer to the likes of you!


The traitors... they have slain me...

Those elves who willingly choose to support the forces that seek to destroy our world don’t deserve to live.


Those elves who willingly choose to support the forces that seek to destroy our world don’t deserve to live.

(<i>mumbling</i>) That seems rather hypocritical coming from you.


(<i>mumbling</i>) That seems rather hypocritical coming from you.


I can hear you, Zynara.


I shall not fall today!


How do you do that, girl?


Do what?

You seem able to heal your own wounds without any effort. I haven’t heard of other faeries of the deep forest having that power.


You seem able to heal your own wounds without any effort. I haven’t heard of other faeries of the deep forest having that power.

Ah. Well, I have had this ability for as long as I can remember.


Ah. Well, I have had this ability for as long as I can remember.

This conflict didn’t begin just now. When Galas and I last visited the northern country, a civil war was already raging due to Inodien’s death. The rumors pointed at the Iron Council’s intrusion in our lands and affairs, but we didn’t have the opportunity to confirm anything.


This conflict didn’t begin just now. When Galas and I last visited the northern country, a civil war was already raging due to Inodien’s death. The rumors pointed at the Iron Council’s intrusion in our lands and affairs, but we didn’t have the opportunity to confirm anything.

Ah, the struggle that resulted in the banishment of the elves from the country. I remember that.


Ah, the struggle that resulted in the banishment of the elves from the country. I remember that.

Much elvish blood has been shed today. I swear that whoever is behind this shall pay with their own life — no matter what it takes.


Much elvish blood has been shed today. I swear that whoever is behind this shall pay with their own life — no matter what it takes.

Elynia! I’m so glad to see you again after so long...


Elynia! I’m so glad to see you again after so long...

Unarye, what happened? We were heading towards the eastern forest to meet with you when we stumbled upon this incursion. How could our enemies advance this far?


Unarye, what happened? We were heading towards the eastern forest to meet with you when we stumbled upon this incursion. How could our enemies advance this far?

Indeed we owe you a few explanations, and I apologize for being unable to arrive earlier, but our forces have been severely weakened. Come with me, and I’ll explain all.


Indeed we owe you a few explanations, and I apologize for being unable to arrive earlier, but our forces have been severely weakened. Come with me, and I’ll explain all.


My lady, do you know this elf?

She is one of Galas’ friends, Unarye, and she’s been collaborating with the Grand Council ever since we left to infiltrate the Empire. I know she can be trusted. Now, let’s go.


She is one of Galas’ friends, Unarye, and she’s been collaborating with the Grand Council ever since we left to infiltrate the Empire. I know she can be trusted. Now, let’s go.

My lady, I’ve just heard rumors that the elves are already advancing towards Raelthyn.


My lady, I’ve just heard rumors that the elves are already advancing towards Raelthyn.

That explains why they haven’t crushed us yet despite our poor performance. This was a foolish move. It’s best that we fall back to aid in the defense of the central region, quickly.


Everyone here is restless, and the elvish leader is nowhere to be seen...


Ah, here she comes!

I apologize once again for keeping you all waiting.


I apologize once again for keeping you all waiting.


It’s no problem, really.

The reason we moved out of the way to the Aragwaith country is that we originally thought our fallen kin would chase us and leave the humans alone. As we all just saw, of course, we were mistaken. Our own people have managed to retrieve some valuable information from the enemy settlements, though. Listen carefully...


The reason we moved out of the way to the Aragwaith country is that we originally thought our fallen kin would chase us and leave the humans alone. As we all just saw, of course, we were mistaken. Our own people have managed to retrieve some valuable information from the enemy settlements, though. Listen carefully...


We are listening, my friend.

The impostor who calls herself the Lady of Light has amassed a varied army of elves, humans, barbarians and Shaxthal creatures, apparently as part of a plan to reorganize the Chaos forces and strike the human country from the east while keeping their troops busy in the west. Not only have they gotten support from Inodien’s successors, but they have also made contact with elvish and human barbarians from lands farther to the east — peoples whose existence was unknown to us thus far.


The impostor who calls herself the Lady of Light has amassed a varied army of elves, humans, barbarians and Shaxthal creatures, apparently as part of a plan to reorganize the Chaos forces and strike the human country from the east while keeping their troops busy in the west. Not only have they gotten support from Inodien’s successors, but they have also made contact with elvish and human barbarians from lands farther to the east — peoples whose existence was unknown to us thus far.

Their base of operations is said to be located in Telchior’s Hold in the Valley of Elynia — the very place whence we fled under Galas’ command following the Chaos invasion. Something deeply wrong must have occurred there after our departure. As I recall, the last time we met you mentioned that Lord Lédinor was possessed by Uria.


Their base of operations is said to be located in Telchior’s Hold in the Valley of Elynia — the very place whence we fled under Galas’ command following the Chaos invasion. Something deeply wrong must have occurred there after our departure. As I recall, the last time we met you mentioned that Lord Lédinor was possessed by Uria.


That’s correct, indeed.

The information we have could be a fabrication intended to mislead us into thinking the valley has some relevance in the greater scheme of things, but it’s not possible to disregard the danger this foul new alliance poses. If the northern lands fall now, the Chaos Empire will have won the war even without their Emperor or capital.


The information we have could be a fabrication intended to mislead us into thinking the valley has some relevance in the greater scheme of things, but it’s not possible to disregard the danger this foul new alliance poses. If the northern lands fall now, the Chaos Empire will have won the war even without their Emperor or capital.

We are in the middle of restructuring our forces to protect the eastern front for as long as we can, even if the Grand Council isn’t available to coordinate efforts with us.


We are in the middle of restructuring our forces to protect the eastern front for as long as we can, even if the Grand Council isn’t available to coordinate efforts with us.

Elynia, you lead many capable warriors and you have the support of the undead. If you could infiltrate the valley in the meantime and vanquish the impostor, we could put an end to the war on this front.


Elynia, you lead many capable warriors and you have the support of the undead. If you could infiltrate the valley in the meantime and vanquish the impostor, we could put an end to the war on this front.

But... I know nothing of the valley other than that it lies in the middle of the desert — fighting in such an environment could be disastrous!


But... I know nothing of the valley other than that it lies in the middle of the desert — fighting in such an environment could be disastrous!

The impersonator is a coward and she isn’t going to lead her minions on the front line. If anything can be done about her, it’ll have to be at her base.


The impersonator is a coward and she isn’t going to lead her minions on the front line. If anything can be done about her, it’ll have to be at her base.

You are a powerful warrior and you have more experience in these matters than any of us present. You helped Galas and Mal Keshar infiltrate the Chaos Empire before. I’m sure you will be successful in this task.


You are a powerful warrior and you have more experience in these matters than any of us present. You helped Galas and Mal Keshar infiltrate the Chaos Empire before. I’m sure you will be successful in this task.

Very well. We’ll travel to your old home to purge this plague and strike down the false Lady of Light.


Very well. We’ll travel to your old home to purge this plague and strike down the false Lady of Light.

Thank you, Elynia — thank you all. I’m sure that under your command the mission will be a success. Now, I must go to discuss our plans with our field commanders.


The desert... I never thought I’d have to see it again.

Ugh. I feel unwell in these dry and bright lands.


Ugh. I feel unwell in these dry and bright lands.

It can’t be helped. Dark faeries are frail creatures that revel in the shadows of the greatest and densest forests. Really, the desert is no place for you. I am sorry for dragging you along.


It can’t be helped. Dark faeries are frail creatures that revel in the shadows of the greatest and densest forests. Really, the desert is no place for you. I am sorry for dragging you along.

Oh, my lady, don’t worry about me. I just need some time to adapt to this environment, that is all.


Oh, my lady, don’t worry about me. I just need some time to adapt to this environment, that is all.

My lady, if you’ll allow me to complain... we can’t just march across the desert without stopping to rest!


My lady, if you’ll allow me to complain... we can’t just march across the desert without stopping to rest!


Excellent!

A word of caution, though. Ever since the Fall, the many victims of the disasters which devastated Irdya have been endlessly wandering across lands like this, preying on the souls of the living.


A word of caution, though. Ever since the Fall, the many victims of the disasters which devastated Irdya have been endlessly wandering across lands like this, preying on the souls of the living.


Understood, my lady.


Time to get moving.

I banish you from this world! Go now to your deserved rest!


I banish you from this world! Go now to your deserved rest!


Begone, wandering spirit!

Ahhhh... There’s no feeling like putting my feet under refreshing, flowing water... I miss the northern forests...


Ahhhh... There’s no feeling like putting my feet under refreshing, flowing water... I miss the northern forests...

Where do you come from, anyway? You couldn’t have spent your whole life traveling with Elorran and Tara.


Where do you come from, anyway? You couldn’t have spent your whole life traveling with Elorran and Tara.

Oh... Of course not. It’s just... it’s complicated.


Oh... Of course not. It’s just... it’s complicated.

If you don’t feel like telling me more about yourself right now, I can understand — I’m just curious, that’s all.


If you don’t feel like telling me more about yourself right now, I can understand — I’m just curious, that’s all.

Chief! The faerie! The faerie and her pets are approaching from the northwest!


Chief! The faerie! The faerie and her pets are approaching from the northwest!


SHUT UP, you disgusting INSECT!

A sandstorm! We won’t be able to continue marching like this!


A sandstorm! We won’t be able to continue marching like this!

This small inconvenience shall not stop us! Onwards!


This small inconvenience shall not stop us! Onwards!

My lady, are you sure this is a good plan?


My lady, are you sure this is a good plan?

It’s better than tarrying here for too long, so it’s good enough for me!


It’s better than tarrying here for too long, so it’s good enough for me!


Argh! No!


Blast it! Their messenger escaped!


... useless... insects...

Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea after all.


Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea after all.

I wasn’t counting on that messenger and his swift mount. Regardless, our presence here was both predicted and awaited — this decidedly spells bad news.


I wasn’t counting on that messenger and his swift mount. Regardless, our presence here was both predicted and awaited — this decidedly spells bad news.


But I told you so!

I <i>did</i> expect a trap from the very beginning too, girl. We— I have been in situations like this before...


I <i>did</i> expect a trap from the very beginning too, girl. We— I have been in situations like this before...

Valen just informed me that the impostor’s forces are advancing towards Raelthyn. That can only mean Unarye and her troops fell in battle. This is hopeless.


According to the map Unarye gave us, the valley entrance is just ahead.


Good.

Don’t you think it is unsafe to be here all alone, though?


Don’t you think it is unsafe to be here all alone, though?

There’s nothing suspicious around here, so... No, I don’t think so. We are both capable of defending ourselves against desert animals.


There’s nothing suspicious around here, so... No, I don’t think so. We are both capable of defending ourselves against desert animals.


I see...

Well, let’s see how you fare on your own against <i>me</i>!


Well, let’s see how you fare on your own against <i>me</i>!


—Who are you in truth? ANSWER!

It saddens me to admit that my master was a very misguided person — his destruction was only a matter of time. Uria’s power is the greatest force that’s ever graced us. We could avoid wasting so many lives all over the continent if everyone accepted her offer and joined her cause.


It saddens me to admit that my master was a very misguided person — his destruction was only a matter of time. Uria’s power is the greatest force that’s ever graced us. We could avoid wasting so many lives all over the continent if everyone accepted her offer and joined her cause.

So you were in the country working for the Triad all this time? YOU BETRAYED US!


So you were in the country working for the Triad all this time? YOU BETRAYED US!

I am not the only one! Even those pitiful northerners have grown weary of this pointless war and seek easier alternatives. Now, give me that staff. Oh, and don’t forget you are not in possession of godlike powers anymore — I can and will kill you if you don’t concede.


I am not the only one! Even those pitiful northerners have grown weary of this pointless war and seek easier alternatives. Now, give me that staff. Oh, and don’t forget you are not in possession of godlike powers anymore — I can and will kill you if you don’t concede.


<i>They</i> are also willing to help...


Anya! Durvan! How did you know? I—

My lady, we’d never leave you alone in the darkness. After all, it <i>is</i> our element!


My lady, we’d never leave you alone in the darkness. After all, it <i>is</i> our element!

There’s a lot of movement in the hills to the south, my lady. The northern defense line is preparing for battle, and so should we!


There’s a lot of movement in the hills to the south, my lady. The northern defense line is preparing for battle, and so should we!

I didn’t come from so far to the former home of my people to be defeated by a traitor and coward.


I didn’t come from so far to the former home of my people to be defeated by a traitor and coward.

I <i>have</i> done this before, thanks to Argan and Malin. Although I am not as good as them with spirits, unfortunately...


I <i>have</i> done this before, thanks to Argan and Malin. Although I am not as good as them with spirits, unfortunately...


Your staff... the Ruby’s glowing!

I can see her friends there... he, he...


I can see her friends there... he, he...

Ignore them — strike down the faerie first!


Ignore them — strike down the faerie first!

Who is your leader? Who is awaiting us in the valley and who is my impersonator?


Who is your leader? Who is awaiting us in the valley and who is my impersonator?

I work for the Iron Council! I have no idea who—


I work for the Iron Council! I have no idea who—


You... are... <b>LYING</b>!


How could you...


It’s over now.


My lady...


Just ‘Elynia’ will do, friends.


What should we do now?

There is no turning back, and the impostor must be preparing to confront us or flee from the valley. Whichever is the case, I am going to find her and burn her to ashes. You must contact Elorran immediately to notify him of Zynara’s betrayal. It’s very probable that he is in danger.


There is no turning back, and the impostor must be preparing to confront us or flee from the valley. Whichever is the case, I am going to find her and burn her to ashes. You must contact Elorran immediately to notify him of Zynara’s betrayal. It’s very probable that he is in danger.


Very well!

Everyone else, prepare for what I hope will be our last battle.


Everyone else, prepare for what I hope will be our last battle.


Yes, my lady!


Sirs, the impostor has arrived with her army! The northern defense line is—

Ha! Ha! That is no army. I thought the northern elves would be more kind to their so-called savior! Ha!


Ha! Ha! That is no army. I thought the northern elves would be more kind to their so-called savior! Ha!

Behold, the usurper arrived to challenge us in our own headquarters. What a pitiful effort! To arms! Take her down and bring me her head and the staff she stole from me!


Behold, the usurper arrived to challenge us in our own headquarters. What a pitiful effort! To arms! Take her down and bring me her head and the staff she stole from me!


Yes, my lady.


As you command, my lady!

Indeed, something is seriously amiss about these elves. If only we could prove she is the impostor, perhaps they would then listen to reason.


Indeed, something is seriously amiss about these elves. If only we could prove she is the impostor, perhaps they would then listen to reason.


What do you suggest, my lady... Elynia?

Stay clear of her and allow me to confront her by myself.


Stay clear of her and allow me to confront her by myself.


Very well...


Protect the Lady of Light! Argh—


I— the Lady of Light... why...


The impostor escaped!

This isn’t good. Since we couldn’t unmask her in front of her subjects, they will summon reinforcements and fight us to the death. We must retreat immediately!


This isn’t good. Since we couldn’t unmask her in front of her subjects, they will summon reinforcements and fight us to the death. We must retreat immediately!

I shall never be defeated by vile impostors like you!


I shall never be defeated by vile impostors like you!

Do you truly believe your own lies? Why don’t you show these elves what you are capable of? Your great powers as the Lady of Light? <i>Who</i> are you, and why are you posing as me?


Do you truly believe your own lies? Why don’t you show these elves what you are capable of? Your great powers as the Lady of Light? <i>Who</i> are you, and why are you posing as me?

Your end is at hand. I shall not answer. Guards! Kill her!


Your end is at hand. I shall not answer. Guards! Kill her!


Back, you fools!

What is this? She emanates such a radiant light!


What is this? She emanates such a radiant light!


Do not hesitate! Kill her! <b>Now!</b>


Who... Who should we trust?

My lady... Elynia! The Lady of Light! I remember you!


My lady... Elynia! The Lady of Light! I remember you!


No...


... We have been deceived...


NO!


What have we done?


This is <i>not</i> over yet!

We still need to defeat the other commanders!


We still need to defeat the other commanders!

Their reinforcements have arrived and they have surrounded the valley! This is hopeless!


Their reinforcements have arrived and they have surrounded the valley! This is hopeless!

That fiend retreated into the Shaxthal hive.


That fiend retreated into the Shaxthal hive.

Her crimes against the unity of the elvish civilization must not go unpunished. I shall pursue her underground if need be.


Her crimes against the unity of the elvish civilization must not go unpunished. I shall pursue her underground if need be.

My lady, we cannot let you go underground alone! It’s become an exceedingly dangerous place since the new hive was completed.


My lady, we cannot let you go underground alone! It’s become an exceedingly dangerous place since the new hive was completed.

We haven’t seen him or her ourselves yet, but the humans have been spreading rumors of the arrival of a powerful ally of the impostor! They might be awaiting you!


We haven’t seen him or her ourselves yet, but the humans have been spreading rumors of the arrival of a powerful ally of the impostor! They might be awaiting you!

My lady, I— I mean Elynia, let us go with you, please!


My lady, I— I mean Elynia, let us go with you, please!

If there’s anything else we can do to try to amend our grave mistake...


If there’s anything else we can do to try to amend our grave mistake...


What is this place?

According to Unarye, the valley was only slightly habitable at first; the elves had to seek refuge in the caverns during the day, while they worked to adapt the surface land to their needs at night. It appears that the Chaos Empire saw fit to turn the place into a Shaxthal hive.


According to Unarye, the valley was only slightly habitable at first; the elves had to seek refuge in the caverns during the day, while they worked to adapt the surface land to their needs at night. It appears that the Chaos Empire saw fit to turn the place into a Shaxthal hive.

Although Shaxthal creatures are particularly weak against our fire, it’s essential that we remain together as we proceed further underground.


Although Shaxthal creatures are particularly weak against our fire, it’s essential that we remain together as we proceed further underground.


What was that?

I am not sure, but I fear we have wasted too much time in these caves. Whatever happens next is surely our fault.


Another gate...


Look! It’s the impostor again!

I have to destroy her... yes, I have to... I must not fail this time...


I have to destroy her... yes, I have to... I must not fail this time...


So here you are, traitor.

I AM NOT A TRAITOR! I’LL DESTROY YOU THIS TIME!


I AM NOT A TRAITOR! I’LL DESTROY YOU THIS TIME!

I have had enough of this — surround her and strike her down! Do not let her get away!


I have had enough of this — surround her and strike her down! Do not let her get away!


No... Let me go!

You and your accursed allies have been conspiring against us and the Grand Council of the Northern Peoples, sowing strife and destruction. Whoever you are, your heinous deeds make you unworthy of my mercy. You no longer deserve a place amongst elvenkind.


You and your accursed allies have been conspiring against us and the Grand Council of the Northern Peoples, sowing strife and destruction. Whoever you are, your heinous deeds make you unworthy of my mercy. You no longer deserve a place amongst elvenkind.


... Elynia... please...

Leave this world <b>now</b>, and never return again!


Leave this world <b>now</b>, and never return again!


(<i>confused</i>) What is this?


... Please... don’t... attack me...


But... how... how is this possible?


This doesn’t make sense!


Who is that?!

(<i>angry</i>) I know you... You are one of the members of the Iron Council, Mal Hekuba!


(<i>angry</i>) I know you... You are one of the members of the Iron Council, Mal Hekuba!


Did you miss me, Elynia?

... I couldn’t possibly wish harder for you and your friends’ destruction.


... I couldn’t possibly wish harder for you and your friends’ destruction.

Ha, ha, but that’s not going to happen in your lifetime, or is it?


Ha, ha, but that’s not going to happen in your lifetime, or is it?

Where are you? Stop fooling around and show yourself, you—


Where are you? Stop fooling around and show yourself, you—

I understand that you must be confused and enraged after losing your friends to such a pointless cause, and traveling so far only to slaughter the same people whom you once vowed to protect!


I understand that you must be confused and enraged after losing your friends to such a pointless cause, and traveling so far only to slaughter the same people whom you once vowed to protect!


It appears to be just an illusion...

Destroying you is NOT a pointless cause!


Destroying you is NOT a pointless cause!


I still have the Ruby of Fire!


What are you babbling about?

Are you working against Uria’s will, then?


Are you working against Uria’s will, then?

(<i>losing his temper</i>) We cannot speak to her directly! We can only do so through that treacherous wench, who keeps the Dark Lady’s heart within her for her own purposes!


(<i>losing his temper</i>) We cannot speak to her directly! We can only do so through that treacherous wench, who keeps the Dark Lady’s heart within her for her own purposes!

... We... We destroyed Wesmere... Yechnagoth’s heart wasn’t there?! What did we destroy when we...


... We... We destroyed Wesmere... Yechnagoth’s heart wasn’t there?! What did we destroy when we...


What are we going to do now?

Those bastards can’t get away with this! My lady, we must do something!


Those bastards can’t get away with this! My lady, we must do something!

I don’t think we have the power necessary to destroy the artifacts that Mal Hekuba is going to use to...


I don’t think we have the power necessary to destroy the artifacts that Mal Hekuba is going to use to...

Of course we do! We didn’t come all the way from the northern lands risking that blasted Ruby for nothing! Whatever that lich is going to do, it will destroy us all if we don’t stop him now!


Of course we do! We didn’t come all the way from the northern lands risking that blasted Ruby for nothing! Whatever that lich is going to do, it will destroy us all if we don’t stop him now!

The last time we fought against that power, I lost a friend, and the vast plains of Wesmere vanished with his remains...


The last time we fought against that power, I lost a friend, and the vast plains of Wesmere vanished with his remains...

Any course of action at this point will inevitably lead to someone’s destruction, but I’m sure we can do it this time! If the lich is going to create a... path to Inferno, as Elorran said, perhaps we can cause it to collapse at the other side!


Any course of action at this point will inevitably lead to someone’s destruction, but I’m sure we can do it this time! If the lich is going to create a... path to Inferno, as Elorran said, perhaps we can cause it to collapse at the other side!

I don’t truly understand most of this nonsense about hearts and Yechnagoth, but I reckon we need to destroy the lich and the impostor — and we can’t do that without your help, Elynia.


I don’t truly understand most of this nonsense about hearts and Yechnagoth, but I reckon we need to destroy the lich and the impostor — and we can’t do that without your help, Elynia.

We don’t have much time! That thing we just fought could be back at any moment!


We don’t have much time! That thing we just fought could be back at any moment!

I appreciate your support... I don’t think I could have come this far alone. And I don’t want to force you to follow me...


I appreciate your support... I don’t think I could have come this far alone. And I don’t want to force you to follow me...


Of course not! We are your friends!

Let’s find that foul fiend and destroy him once and for all.


Let’s find that foul fiend and destroy him once and for all.

They are getting closer to the control chamber! Get them, quickly!


They are getting closer to the control chamber! Get them, quickly!


I don’t like the sound of that...

You! You can’t stop our master! You can’t—


You! You can’t stop our master! You can’t—

My lady! At last, I found you! I know where the lich is!


My lady! At last, I found you! I know where the lich is!


Speak.

The catacombs below guard an artifact of some sort. Nobody knows exactly what it is, but we know the entrance is protected by a gate controlled by three crystals found near this guard post.


The catacombs below guard an artifact of some sort. Nobody knows exactly what it is, but we know the entrance is protected by a gate controlled by three crystals found near this guard post.


Let’s find those crystals, then.


May Uria punish you all for this—


Nooooaaagh... it hurts!!!

Even though I have fallen, you are no match for my master’s power!


Even though I have fallen, you are no match for my master’s power!


We’ll see about that very soon.


What in blazes is that creature?!

Don’t meet its gaze! It will drain your life force!


Don’t meet its gaze! It will drain your life force!

Hm, what is this? There seems to be something at the bottom...


Hm, what is this? There seems to be something at the bottom...

I wouldn’t get too close if I were you. It could be another one of those biomechanical abominations.


I wouldn’t get too close if I were you. It could be another one of those biomechanical abominations.

I mean, it doesn’t look like there are any creatures in the water anyway. (<i>touches the water</i>)


I mean, it doesn’t look like there are any creatures in the water anyway. (<i>touches the water</i>)


Anya, what are you doing?

Er, ummm... nothing! I just— <b>AAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!</b>


Er, ummm... nothing! I just— <b>AAAAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!</b>

I don’t really know? The current dragged me into a small chamber that seems to be right below where you are. I think I may be able to get back to you? Good thing I can swim.


I don’t really know? The current dragged me into a small chamber that seems to be right below where you are. I think I may be able to get back to you? Good thing I can swim.

Yes, you can swim... but I cannot. You should return to us before anything happens to you down there.


Yes, you can swim... but I cannot. You should return to us before anything happens to you down there.

Nah, it will be fine. Don’t worry about me. I am just going to do a little exploring down here and come back.


Nah, it will be fine. Don’t worry about me. I am just going to do a little exploring down here and come back.


So, how was your little adventure?

Well, I found this on an altar! It’s so shiny!


Well, I found this on an altar! It’s so shiny!

... A seashell pendant? How did it find its way here, so far from the ocean?


... A seashell pendant? How did it find its way here, so far from the ocean?

It could be some kind of keepsake the elves brought here when they first arrived?


It could be some kind of keepsake the elves brought here when they first arrived?


That is the most likely answer, yes.

Do you think it has magical properties? Maybe I can summon water creatures! Or water... projectiles of some kind? Perhaps I can shoot bubbles!


Do you think it has magical properties? Maybe I can summon water creatures! Or water... projectiles of some kind? Perhaps I can shoot bubbles!

No... I am afraid there is no magic in this pendant at all.


No... I am afraid there is no magic in this pendant at all.


Wh... what.

Did I actually just risk my life fighting that... giant... spider... to obtain a completely mundane pendant?


Did I actually just risk my life fighting that... giant... spider... to obtain a completely mundane pendant?


So it would seem.

... Oh well... At least it’s pretty! I’m going to keep it if you don’t mind.


... Oh well... At least it’s pretty! I’m going to keep it if you don’t mind.

Sure. Just... don’t do that again, please? You had us really worried for a moment there.


Sure. Just... don’t do that again, please? You had us really worried for a moment there.


I know, I’m sorry...

It is probably too late to stop that lich by now...


It is probably too late to stop that lich by now...


This goes deeper and deeper—

... I fear we don’t have much more time. Just where in this accursed place are you, Hekuba?


... I fear we don’t have much more time. Just where in this accursed place are you, Hekuba?

Be careful. I’m sure he is in this chamber, somewhere...


Be careful. I’m sure he is in this chamber, somewhere...

Most likely on that tall platform at the center. We need to get up there somehow.


Most likely on that tall platform at the center. We need to get up there somehow.


What’s that noise?


... That energy... It’s the same...


Elynia? What’s happening?

... A dark energy emanates from those spires... It’s the same energy that was released in Wesmere when we destroyed the creature within the hive.


... A dark energy emanates from those spires... It’s the same energy that was released in Wesmere when we destroyed the creature within the hive.


How should we destroy them?

Search the chamber — there must be some mechanism controlling them.


Search the chamber — there must be some mechanism controlling them.


Welcome to your end, heathens!


What kind of evil magic is this?


Is he... fused with one of the spires?

What if you don’t truly control it? You said you cannot speak to Uria directly — what if her will is <i>your</i> destruction?


What if you don’t truly control it? You said you cannot speak to Uria directly — what if her will is <i>your</i> destruction?


Insolent girl! You shall all die!


YOU SHALL ALL DIE NOW!


What are we going to do now?

Everyone, stay away from the spires and the portal! I must think of something...


Everyone, stay away from the spires and the portal! I must think of something...

There’s no use in attacking those structures — the energy they release in retaliation could kill us all!


There’s no use in attacking those structures — the energy they release in retaliation could kill us all!


Attacking me is futile!

The more time passes, the more energy fills the place and binds our worlds together. I must go and try to destroy that lich by myself.


The more time passes, the more energy fills the place and binds our worlds together. I must go and try to destroy that lich by myself.


Elynia? No! If you go he will—

I am well aware, but I’m also the only one who can wield this staff and not become corrupted by the power of the Ruby. Using it to vanquish this evil... if my own sacrifice is necessary, I will gladly accept my fate. There’s nothing left in Irdya for me now, and there will certainly be nothing for you all if this fiend succeeds.


I am well aware, but I’m also the only one who can wield this staff and not become corrupted by the power of the Ruby. Using it to vanquish this evil... if my own sacrifice is necessary, I will gladly accept my fate. There’s nothing left in Irdya for me now, and there will certainly be nothing for you all if this fiend succeeds.


I— I—

You cannot go with me, for someone must survive the ordeal to pass the news on to our allies. You are a very smart girl, and I’m sure you all will be able to escape together with your power.


You cannot go with me, for someone must survive the ordeal to pass the news on to our allies. You are a very smart girl, and I’m sure you all will be able to escape together with your power.


I must go now.


Elynia, my lady... Good luck!

(<i>tearful</i>) Elynia! Don’t die up there! Please!


(<i>tearful</i>) Elynia! Don’t die up there! Please!

(<i>muttering to herself</i>) I can only try.


(<i>muttering to herself</i>) I can only try.


And just what are you doing now?


I’m going to destroy you!


How pathetic.

Have you not learned anything after your friends’ vain sacrifices, Elynia? Have you not learned to GIVE UP?


Have you not learned anything after your friends’ vain sacrifices, Elynia? Have you not learned to GIVE UP?


ELYNIA!

Why won’t you just accept your fate and <b>DIE</b>?!


Why won’t you just accept your fate and <b>DIE</b>?!


We must do something!

If Elynia herself doesn’t have the power to destroy that lich, I don’t think there’s anything we can do about it...


If Elynia herself doesn’t have the power to destroy that lich, I don’t think there’s anything we can do about it...


It’s too late to stop me!

There’s absolutely <i>nothing</i> you can do!


There’s absolutely <i>nothing</i> you can do!


Have you had enough already?


No?


... I...


Stupid little vermin...

Ah, Ivyel, at long last! It’s good to see you again... This pitiful creature is hindering me. Could you sweep her away for me?


Ah, Ivyel, at long last! It’s good to see you again... This pitiful creature is hindering me. Could you sweep her away for me?


... What’s this?

... I cannot be defeated by the likes of you...


... I cannot be defeated by the likes of you...


... I am the Lady of Light...

... even without my former power, I shall destroy you...


... even without my former power, I shall destroy you...


Of course not. TAKE HER DOWN!

What’s she going to do? Does she have a plan?


What’s she going to do? Does she have a plan?

I am not sure. It appears she wants to attack the infiltrator creature...


I am not sure. It appears she wants to attack the infiltrator creature...


This is <i>your</i> end, Mal Hekuba...


... Irdya is not yours to destroy!


AAAAAAAARRGH!


I don’t want to kill you.

... Because it’s all I have left, my dear.


My lady, you have finally returned! I was concerned for you, since you left without notice! What do you have there?

The Ruby of Fire! You retrieved it, my lady! Was the faerie elf already dead, or did you kill her yourself?


The Ruby of Fire! You retrieved it, my lady! Was the faerie elf already dead, or did you kill her yourself?

She destroyed Hekuba for us first in the elves’ valley. Naturally, she paid the price.


She destroyed Hekuba for us first in the elves’ valley. Naturally, she paid the price.

So they destroyed each other? Excellent news!


So they destroyed each other? Excellent news!


So, what are we going to do now?


Where is Nar-hamoth?

I believe he’s busy battling the allied forces remaining near the Bay of Glamdrol. Should you require his immediate presence here with us, I can summon him—


I believe he’s busy battling the allied forces remaining near the Bay of Glamdrol. Should you require his immediate presence here with us, I can summon him—

That shall not be necessary. Not anymore.


That shall not be necessary. Not anymore.


That’s amazing!

(<i>whispering</i>) Bind the soul to stone, turn the memories to dust...


(<i>whispering</i>) Bind the soul to stone, turn the memories to dust...


M-m-my lady...

(<i>whispering</i>) ... erase the spirit and shed the hollow shell.


(<i>whispering</i>) ... erase the spirit and shed the hollow shell.


... Elyssa... I feel... unwell...


My lady, since you are returning to the Far North we thought we should let you know you can count on our help. Should you need fighters or a healer...

I appreciate your offer, and you can come with us if you wish.


I appreciate your offer, and you can come with us if you wish.

Elynia, I’m not sure leaving most of our men behind is actually a good idea.


Elynia, I’m not sure leaving most of our men behind is actually a good idea.

I prefer that they stay here to investigate the ruins for us and assist the elves should the Empire send more troops back here. Anya can teleport them back to us later if necessary. We don’t have much time and we have already tarried here for too long because of my incompetence.


I prefer that they stay here to investigate the ruins for us and assist the elves should the Empire send more troops back here. Anya can teleport them back to us later if necessary. We don’t have much time and we have already tarried here for too long because of my incompetence.

Don’t say such things — it’s not your fault! Teleportation is a very complicated and dangerous skill to learn for those who weren’t born with the ability!


Don’t say such things — it’s not your fault! Teleportation is a very complicated and dangerous skill to learn for those who weren’t born with the ability!

If you say so, girl. (<i>smiling</i>) I suppose it’s not my place to argue with a creature of the darkness.


If you say so, girl. (<i>smiling</i>) I suppose it’s not my place to argue with a creature of the darkness.


Let’s return.


Very well!


Where are we? Where is everyone?


This does not bode well.


That trail... No...


Please tell me they’re not...

Search the settlement for survivors, gather any living humans from the nearby villages, and try to locate Elorran and Tara’s remains.


Search the settlement for survivors, gather any living humans from the nearby villages, and try to locate Elorran and Tara’s remains.


Elynia...? What’s your plan?

We will make the demons pay for this atrocity. That is all I know and care about for the moment.


We will make the demons pay for this atrocity. That is all I know and care about for the moment.

I’ve been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to behold the Lady of Light’s impaled torso, but that won’t happen now, for my presence is required in Kalari. But please, go on without me; just make sure to leave a trophy for me to claim.


I’ve been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to behold the Lady of Light’s impaled torso, but that won’t happen now, for my presence is required in Kalari. But please, go on without me; just make sure to leave a trophy for me to claim.


What was that explosion? The volcano?

No. It was much farther from this region...


No. It was much farther from this region...

The explosion definitely came from Raelthyn. There’s an enormous cloud of smoke coming from that direction. This... I suppose this explains why I couldn’t contact Valen yesterday.


The explosion definitely came from Raelthyn. There’s an enormous cloud of smoke coming from that direction. This... I suppose this explains why I couldn’t contact Valen yesterday.

Ah, yes, you can kill me now, but at the end of the day—


Ah, yes, you can kill me now, but at the end of the day—


Elynia, can I talk to you for a moment?


You mean... Well, yes, of course.

(<i>aside</i>) We found a witness. He claims a demon and a faerie were amongst the many victims of a number of mechanical birds who descended from the sky, killing and devouring everybody in their path, making sure to leave no whole corpses behind. Elorran and Tara...


(<i>aside</i>) We found a witness. He claims a demon and a faerie were amongst the many victims of a number of mechanical birds who descended from the sky, killing and devouring everybody in their path, making sure to leave no whole corpses behind. Elorran and Tara...

(<i>aside</i>) I understand. Why... Why did it have to end like this...? Just when I thought we had a chance to rally demonkind against Uria...


(<i>aside</i>) I understand. Why... Why did it have to end like this...? Just when I thought we had a chance to rally demonkind against Uria...


Elynia?


Yes?


What are we going to do now?

I don’t know anymore. If Raelthyn has fallen, then all hope is lost; the Chaos Empire has won the war, and Uria is now able to do whatever she wants with Irdya and her next target with that artifact in her possession. We might be able to survive the upcoming onslaught for a while if we go back with Unarye, assuming they haven’t also been crushed by these relentless hordes coming out of damned nowhere...


I don’t know anymore. If Raelthyn has fallen, then all hope is lost; the Chaos Empire has won the war, and Uria is now able to do whatever she wants with Irdya and her next target with that artifact in her possession. We might be able to survive the upcoming onslaught for a while if we go back with Unarye, assuming they haven’t also been crushed by these relentless hordes coming out of damned nowhere...

What if we left the Great Continent instead?


What if we left the Great Continent instead?

The elves in Zocthanol Isle told us their merfolk allies had evidence that only the Great Northern Ice Plains remain besides this continent. We would quickly perish there, so that’s not an option. And what would the point be if Uria presumably has the power to destroy Irdya itself?


The elves in Zocthanol Isle told us their merfolk allies had evidence that only the Great Northern Ice Plains remain besides this continent. We would quickly perish there, so that’s not an option. And what would the point be if Uria presumably has the power to destroy Irdya itself?

You aren’t suggesting we just sit here and do nothing, are you?


You aren’t suggesting we just sit here and do nothing, are you?


I...


... guess I am.

Elynia, please! Just... let’s go back to Raelthyn.


Elynia, please! Just... let’s go back to Raelthyn.

To see more of this? Do you really want to see more senseless destruction? Do you really want me to lead you to another devastated battlefield littered with dismembered corpses?


To see more of this? Do you really want to see more senseless destruction? Do you really want me to lead you to another devastated battlefield littered with dismembered corpses?

I feel this is not over yet. Let’s go back. Please...


I can barely see through this fog and smoke, but, those are the city walls.


Who said that?


Uh, I haven’t said anything...

This has only just begun. Who are you and why have you come to this capital of destruction—


This has only just begun. Who are you and why have you come to this capital of destruction—


I know you. Aren’t you—

The Lady of Light! We are saved! Hear, everyone, the gods have finally answered our prayers! She has returned!


The Lady of Light! We are saved! Hear, everyone, the gods have finally answered our prayers! She has returned!


All hail the Lady of Light!


You appear to be quite popular here.

This is rather unexpected given the circumstances of my previous return, but that was a long time ago, after all. If I’m not mistaken you are Irylean, one of Galas’ old advisors?


This is rather unexpected given the circumstances of my previous return, but that was a long time ago, after all. If I’m not mistaken you are Irylean, one of Galas’ old advisors?

Indeed I was, my lady, but ever since Lord Galas stepped down I retired to this once prosperous land. The demons’ assault was completely unexpected, but we are all doing our best to repel their forces. Sadly, there have been rumors that many members of the Grand Council were killed by the initial charges that destroyed the walls.


Indeed I was, my lady, but ever since Lord Galas stepped down I retired to this once prosperous land. The demons’ assault was completely unexpected, but we are all doing our best to repel their forces. Sadly, there have been rumors that many members of the Grand Council were killed by the initial charges that destroyed the walls.


The fog has lifted!

Lords of Light, what has happened to the capital?


Lords of Light, what has happened to the capital?

Lady of Light, the Grand Council—or what remains of it anyway—sent me with a message for you, from our seer.


Lady of Light, the Grand Council—or what remains of it anyway—sent me with a message for you, from our seer.


Valen? Is she—

She’s alive and well, but she needs your help— we all need your help. Our highest walls were struck down by strange exploding creatures of the enemy — and our scouts have spotted more of the things approaching the capital.


She’s alive and well, but she needs your help— we all need your help. Our highest walls were struck down by strange exploding creatures of the enemy — and our scouts have spotted more of the things approaching the capital.

If we are to defend Raelthyn, we must ensure they don’t reach and destroy the main keep where the remaining Grand Council members are. Should we lose the keep...


If we are to defend Raelthyn, we must ensure they don’t reach and destroy the main keep where the remaining Grand Council members are. Should we lose the keep...

That would be a huge blow against everyone’s morale, I know.


That would be a huge blow against everyone’s morale, I know.

I didn’t expect more of them to be heading here! I saw them in action... Attempting to stop them might not have been my brightest plan.


I didn’t expect more of them to be heading here! I saw them in action... Attempting to stop them might not have been my brightest plan.

Lord Torancyn said we should take them down no matter the cost.


Lord Torancyn said we should take them down no matter the cost.

What a suicidal approach. Of course this is hardly a problem when all involved are undead, but we’ll never reach the other drones before they get to the keep. I assume his plan is to sacrifice his own people; he should hope there are desperate souls willing to give up their lives for the city amongst his troops. Irylean?


What a suicidal approach. Of course this is hardly a problem when all involved are undead, but we’ll never reach the other drones before they get to the keep. I assume his plan is to sacrifice his own people; he should hope there are desperate souls willing to give up their lives for the city amongst his troops. Irylean?

I’m at your service, my lady. And I presume the good people of Arphalad are as well.


I’m at your service, my lady. And I presume the good people of Arphalad are as well.

I suggest you reconsider your retirement. If we succeed here, I may require your help for a personal quest of mine. But for now, we need to take down those creatures and force their leaders to retreat or else, and you will help us.


I suggest you reconsider your retirement. If we succeed here, I may require your help for a personal quest of mine. But for now, we need to take down those creatures and force their leaders to retreat or else, and you will help us.


Of course, my lady.


It’s time to get moving.


Here they come.

Haven’t we lost enough soldiers and citizens defending the city yet? You should have rallied any necromancers you could find in the nearby towns instead.


Haven’t we lost enough soldiers and citizens defending the city yet? You should have rallied any necromancers you could find in the nearby towns instead.

The last one I trusted ended up betraying the Lady of Light, or that’s what you told us. What makes you think that we can ever accept their help again?


The last one I trusted ended up betraying the Lady of Light, or that’s what you told us. What makes you think that we can ever accept their help again?

The notion that not all of them are like-minded.


The notion that not all of them are like-minded.

I’m not taking my chances. Especially not now that Arnesius and Illana—


I’m not taking my chances. Especially not now that Arnesius and Illana—

Let’s just proceed with the plan and be done with it.


Let’s just proceed with the plan and be done with it.

Very well, the last one of those bastards is down!


Very well, the last one of those bastards is down!

Lord Torancyn, please tell the Lady of Light... the journal... I’m sorry...


Lord Torancyn, please tell the Lady of Light... the journal... I’m sorry...

I never expected the heart of our country to be my last battlefield... Alas, Raelthyn will fall... without me...