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

Lord Torancyn was slain in battle. This is hopeless.


Lord Torancyn was slain in battle. This is hopeless.

Do the rest of you fiends want to come and taste our steel?


Do the rest of you fiends want to come and taste our steel?


They appear to be retreating.


The fiends retreat; that’s rather odd.


Look to the northeast!


I don’t think any number of words could suffice to express our gratitude for your intervention, Lady Unarye. I am glad the elves are soon to be united under a single banner again; perhaps the costs will be compensated before long.

I would also hope so, my lord, but we have to be realistic: we cannot win this war, and our chances of survival don’t look good either now that our enemies are roaming and ravaging our lands unimpeded. According to Elynia we are running out of time — for all we know Uria could already be on Irdya.


I would also hope so, my lord, but we have to be realistic: we cannot win this war, and our chances of survival don’t look good either now that our enemies are roaming and ravaging our lands unimpeded. According to Elynia we are running out of time — for all we know Uria could already be on Irdya.

I am truly sorry my vision can’t penetrate the veil beyond our frontiers with the old Chaos Empire.


I am truly sorry my vision can’t penetrate the veil beyond our frontiers with the old Chaos Empire.

There’s no need to apologize, my lady. We are powerless against this creature and her minions.


There’s no need to apologize, my lady. We are powerless against this creature and her minions.

We might be powerless as you say, but there’s still something I want to try. Valen, you told me you had found something; is it the journal I asked you to search?


We might be powerless as you say, but there’s still something I want to try. Valen, you told me you had found something; is it the journal I asked you to search?

We were meant to send reinforcements to Astar. You can probably guess the rest.


We were meant to send reinforcements to Astar. You can probably guess the rest.

Of course. Nevertheless, I shall go there with Irylean and whoever else is willing to join us along the way. That journal is far too important to lose.


Of course. Nevertheless, I shall go there with Irylean and whoever else is willing to join us along the way. That journal is far too important to lose.

I guess there’s no point in stopping you. But I would like to remind you that we need more men and women capable of defending this city, here. If Adavyan’s Keep falls...


I guess there’s no point in stopping you. But I would like to remind you that we need more men and women capable of defending this city, here. If Adavyan’s Keep falls...

... So does the Far North; I have heard the legend before. Consider this, though, what is the point of defending this place with a thousand swords if Uria can blast the entire fortress to smithereens in a blink?


... So does the Far North; I have heard the legend before. Consider this, though, what is the point of defending this place with a thousand swords if Uria can blast the entire fortress to smithereens in a blink?

I’ll ponder that when I deem it convenient to do so, Lady of Light. I declare this council meeting over now. May the Lords of Light protect you on your way.


I’ll ponder that when I deem it convenient to do so, Lady of Light. I declare this council meeting over now. May the Lords of Light protect you on your way.

Elynia, I fear I cannot be of much help at this time. My people are still fighting the Chaos armies and doing their best to keep them away from Raelthyn. I—


Elynia, I fear I cannot be of much help at this time. My people are still fighting the Chaos armies and doing their best to keep them away from Raelthyn. I—

Don’t worry, Unarye. I understand. I am sure we’ll be able to do this without Raelthyn’s help.


Don’t worry, Unarye. I understand. I am sure we’ll be able to do this without Raelthyn’s help.


I’ll see you again soon then, friend.


It is time for us to go.

Would that your demonic ally hadn’t been forced to leave us so soon, don’t you think?


Would that your demonic ally hadn’t been forced to leave us so soon, don’t you think?


How did you—

Elynia, I am a seer. As I said, my vision is limited and I can’t help you with what lies within enemy territory, but the Demon Lord who helped you through this young lady’s hands worked within our frontiers. I saw him, and I saw you.


Elynia, I am a seer. As I said, my vision is limited and I can’t help you with what lies within enemy territory, but the Demon Lord who helped you through this young lady’s hands worked within our frontiers. I saw him, and I saw you.

Why didn’t you tell us this before? We thought—


Why didn’t you tell us this before? We thought—

That the Grand Council wouldn’t understand? Yes, and that was a correct assessment, especially now that Torancyn is the Supreme Lord of the Aragwaith — he would certainly not permit this. But with Lord Arnesius dead, I no longer have any obligations to anybody, and most importantly, I no longer speak in the name of the law. There is something I must tell you before I depart from this doomed land.


That the Grand Council wouldn’t understand? Yes, and that was a correct assessment, especially now that Torancyn is the Supreme Lord of the Aragwaith — he would certainly not permit this. But with Lord Arnesius dead, I no longer have any obligations to anybody, and most importantly, I no longer speak in the name of the law. There is something I must tell you before I depart from this doomed land.


I listen.

The night before the demons attacked this region, someone communicated with me directly; someone by the name of Ergea, Demon Lord of the Storms. She warned me of what was about to take place in Raelthyn. She warned me of a portal to Kalari built in Aran-Balgur, a stronghold lost to the forces of Uria not long after the fall of the Emperor. And finally, she told me to instruct the Lady of Light to meet with her in the Pass of Sorrows, north from Kalari Peninsula.


The night before the demons attacked this region, someone communicated with me directly; someone by the name of Ergea, Demon Lord of the Storms. She warned me of what was about to take place in Raelthyn. She warned me of a portal to Kalari built in Aran-Balgur, a stronghold lost to the forces of Uria not long after the fall of the Emperor. And finally, she told me to instruct the Lady of Light to meet with her in the Pass of Sorrows, north from Kalari Peninsula.

She left my room as swiftly as she appeared and I haven’t heard of her since.


She left my room as swiftly as she appeared and I haven’t heard of her since.

Anya, do you know anything about this Ergea?


Anya, do you know anything about this Ergea?

No... I’m not sure. I think I heard Elorran mention a Demon Lord of the Storms once, but I don’t know anything about her faction or allegiances. There’s also this thing about working in secrecy since Uria has turned rebellious factions in her favor before — Elorran chose to work on his own to minimize the risk of betrayal.


No... I’m not sure. I think I heard Elorran mention a Demon Lord of the Storms once, but I don’t know anything about her faction or allegiances. There’s also this thing about working in secrecy since Uria has turned rebellious factions in her favor before — Elorran chose to work on his own to minimize the risk of betrayal.

Girl, if you had mentioned this before I might have outright refused to support him. Of course, he remained loyal to his cause until the very end. I guess... I never expected such heroism from a member of the species Uria uses to facilitate our destruction.


Girl, if you had mentioned this before I might have outright refused to support him. Of course, he remained loyal to his cause until the very end. I guess... I never expected such heroism from a member of the species Uria uses to facilitate our destruction.

My lady, I fear it is not my place to tell you what you should do next, given that I lack further information and I haven’t been able to contact or see this demoness again. I advise you do what you feel is right; the future is not my domain, and anything beyond Irdya is beyond my reach.


My lady, I fear it is not my place to tell you what you should do next, given that I lack further information and I haven’t been able to contact or see this demoness again. I advise you do what you feel is right; the future is not my domain, and anything beyond Irdya is beyond my reach.

The last time I was told to do what I felt was right I ended up causing a catastrophe... Fair enough. Thank you for this information and your support, Valen. May the Lords of Light guide your path, wherever you plan to go next.


The last time I was told to do what I felt was right I ended up causing a catastrophe... Fair enough. Thank you for this information and your support, Valen. May the Lords of Light guide your path, wherever you plan to go next.

Farewell, Lady of Light. May you all find your destiny.


This is taking too long — I begin to worry for Elynia...


Nah, there she comes.

Elynia, you are back! Is that... the journal?


Elynia, you are back! Is that... the journal?


That’s correct.

So, is that General Bardyl fellow going to help us assault Aran-Balgur then?


So, is that General Bardyl fellow going to help us assault Aran-Balgur then?

Indeed he is, but not specifically because of my advice; he was already giving consideration to the idea because of a rumor that’s been running through his troops as of late. It appears someone successfully ‘interrogated’ a captured enemy soldier and got some information about the source of the local raids and the ongoing invasion. What they know suggests that there is indeed a portal in Aran-Balgur.


Indeed he is, but not specifically because of my advice; he was already giving consideration to the idea because of a rumor that’s been running through his troops as of late. It appears someone successfully ‘interrogated’ a captured enemy soldier and got some information about the source of the local raids and the ongoing invasion. What they know suggests that there is indeed a portal in Aran-Balgur.

I shudder to wonder exactly how this information was obtained. I know from experience that the men in the service of the Empire are either completely ignorant of their superiors’ plans, or instructed to commit suicide before being captured, and the sorcerers and demons are too powerful to contain.


I shudder to wonder exactly how this information was obtained. I know from experience that the men in the service of the Empire are either completely ignorant of their superiors’ plans, or instructed to commit suicide before being captured, and the sorcerers and demons are too powerful to contain.

I guess now we should all advance towards Aran-Balgur?


I guess now we should all advance towards Aran-Balgur?


Exactly. And we should be careful.

So it rests on us and our followers, I take it.


So it rests on us and our followers, I take it.


Exactly.


And so, it begins.

If you don’t mind me asking, sir, are you sure about this?


If you don’t mind me asking, sir, are you sure about this?

Of course I am. The Grand Council has neglected us for long enough, and those damned bastards from hell are getting increasingly bored of playing with us. As much as I find her kind disgusting, if the faerie’s troops and power are as impressive as she promised we’ll recover Aran-Balgur before long. And if there’s a portal in there and we can destroy it, we’ll regain the Council’s blessing as well.


Of course I am. The Grand Council has neglected us for long enough, and those damned bastards from hell are getting increasingly bored of playing with us. As much as I find her kind disgusting, if the faerie’s troops and power are as impressive as she promised we’ll recover Aran-Balgur before long. And if there’s a portal in there and we can destroy it, we’ll regain the Council’s blessing as well.

Lord Nar-hamoth demands the blood of the northern scum! Charge!


Lord Nar-hamoth demands the blood of the northern scum! Charge!

I remember that name — I believe it’s one of the fiends of the Iron Triad.


I remember that name — I believe it’s one of the fiends of the Iron Triad.

So the rumors Elorran heard are true? That guy is said to be the least competent Demon Lord of all, and yet Uria trusts him over most for some reason.


So the rumors Elorran heard are true? That guy is said to be the least competent Demon Lord of all, and yet Uria trusts him over most for some reason.

We’ll soon see how competent he is on the battlefield, then.


We’ll soon see how competent he is on the battlefield, then.

So you finally decided to challenge me directly? Hopefully this will be an entertaining fight! For the glory of the mother of Urvatha!


So you finally decided to challenge me directly? Hopefully this will be an entertaining fight! For the glory of the mother of Urvatha!


Die, pathetic Irdyan rats! DIE!

Ha! Not bad, but I was just warming up! Now, let us see if you can handle THIS!


Ha! Not bad, but I was just warming up! Now, let us see if you can handle THIS!

You do not tire of combat easily, eh? I’m impressed! Shall we have a third round then?


You do not tire of combat easily, eh? I’m impressed! Shall we have a third round then?

Ha! Your strength and resourcefulness have not gone unnoticed by the Guardian of Life! I too can respect an enemy that perseveres against impossible odds, Elynia-Thanadria.


Ha! Your strength and resourcefulness have not gone unnoticed by the Guardian of Life! I too can respect an enemy that perseveres against impossible odds, Elynia-Thanadria.

Alas, that stubbornness of yours shall be your and your kind’s undoing!


Alas, that stubbornness of yours shall be your and your kind’s undoing!

Hm. Very impressive, indeed. Despite being such lowly rats, you sure seem to be capable of grand feats when given the right motivation. Ahh, yes, as that hapless bastard Argan found out the hard way. Would that we had not met each other as enemies in a never-ending war, don’t you agree? It is just as unfortunate that my presence is currently required elsewhere...


Hm. Very impressive, indeed. Despite being such lowly rats, you sure seem to be capable of grand feats when given the right motivation. Ahh, yes, as that hapless bastard Argan found out the hard way. Would that we had not met each other as enemies in a never-ending war, don’t you agree? It is just as unfortunate that my presence is currently required elsewhere...


Stop him before he escapes!

I shall eagerly await the day we meet again!


I shall eagerly await the day we meet again!

... Fleeing the battlefield seems a conventional tactic for the highest-ranking servants of Uria. Mal Hekuba did so in both of our previous face-to-face encounters as well. I don’t think we ever got a taste of his true might before he decided to fuse his own putrid body with those artifacts.


... Fleeing the battlefield seems a conventional tactic for the highest-ranking servants of Uria. Mal Hekuba did so in both of our previous face-to-face encounters as well. I don’t think we ever got a taste of his true might before he decided to fuse his own putrid body with those artifacts.

That may have been for the best, though.


That may have been for the best, though.

Perhaps. Still, I would be grateful if I never had to deal with their limitless arrogance again.


Perhaps. Still, I would be grateful if I never had to deal with their limitless arrogance again.

This operation was a disastrous mistake. Their shock troops are heading here now, and the faerie’s reinforcements are all but useless. Perhaps if we surrender they’ll at least spare our lives.


This operation was a disastrous mistake. Their shock troops are heading here now, and the faerie’s reinforcements are all but useless. Perhaps if we surrender they’ll at least spare our lives.

Well played, faerie. Not only you deliberately misled us about your numbers, but you also omitted the fact that you consort with necromancers. This changes everything.


Well played, faerie. Not only you deliberately misled us about your numbers, but you also omitted the fact that you consort with necromancers. This changes everything.

Not necessarily. Today’s events would indicate that together we can build a formidable opposition force. Is this not what you wanted? An opportunity to retake Aran-Balgur, your former home? Is it not what your men desire as well? Or would you prefer to stay here and defend Astar against an enemy with a plan? Tell me, how many soldiers have deserted since the Glamdrol incident?


Not necessarily. Today’s events would indicate that together we can build a formidable opposition force. Is this not what you wanted? An opportunity to retake Aran-Balgur, your former home? Is it not what your men desire as well? Or would you prefer to stay here and defend Astar against an enemy with a plan? Tell me, how many soldiers have deserted since the Glamdrol incident?

I specifically pointed out your deception; I did not say I would retract, and that’s not an option at this point unless I were looking for a mutiny. I’m done speaking to you for now.


I specifically pointed out your deception; I did not say I would retract, and that’s not an option at this point unless I were looking for a mutiny. I’m done speaking to you for now.

Elynia, are you sure about this? You did admit before that your judgment might not be—


Elynia, are you sure about this? You did admit before that your judgment might not be—

I’m not really heeding my judgment anymore, girl. It’s just a hunch I have... I have to return to Kalari and find this Demon Lord of the Storms, if it’s the last thing I do.


Aran-Balgur is really impressive. How could it fall to Uria’s forces?

Some people say the lord of the stronghold was brutally killed by the Chaos thugs on the battlefield some time after their Emperor fell. The man left in charge in his place wasn’t very bright, and couldn’t stand a chance when the angry enemy troops arrived. Others say they found the descendant of the architect who helped build its walls a century ago, and forced him to reveal the plans with all the secret passages and weak points.


Some people say the lord of the stronghold was brutally killed by the Chaos thugs on the battlefield some time after their Emperor fell. The man left in charge in his place wasn’t very bright, and couldn’t stand a chance when the angry enemy troops arrived. Others say they found the descendant of the architect who helped build its walls a century ago, and forced him to reveal the plans with all the secret passages and weak points.

Regardless of the rumors, the fact is that they killed everyone. See the stains on the exterior walls? Everyone says it’s the blood of the former occupants. Some believe that the General’s family was amongst them.


Regardless of the rumors, the fact is that they killed everyone. See the stains on the exterior walls? Everyone says it’s the blood of the former occupants. Some believe that the General’s family was amongst them.

I guess... that explains why he’s such an unpleasant person.


I guess... that explains why he’s such an unpleasant person.

I hope everyone is ready for the battle ahead of us.


I hope everyone is ready for the battle ahead of us.


We are, my lady. What are your orders?

Just assist our allies with the siege and deal with whatever creatures guard the keep and the rumored portal. We ought to make this quick, for the demoness that awaits us at the other end might not be too patient, and this mission has delayed us too much already.


Just assist our allies with the siege and deal with whatever creatures guard the keep and the rumored portal. We ought to make this quick, for the demoness that awaits us at the other end might not be too patient, and this mission has delayed us too much already.


You haven’t changed your mind...


Indeed, I have not.


I don’t like that sound...

It is time. At last... I’ll have my revenge...


It is time. At last... I’ll have my revenge...


And what about us?

You two shall be allowed to leave once the battle is over — that is, assuming you survive.


You two shall be allowed to leave once the battle is over — that is, assuming you survive.


What if we lose?

Should it come to that, you’d best hope those fiends will be swift to end your pitiful lives.


Should it come to that, you’d best hope those fiends will be swift to end your pitiful lives.


That’s truly motivating...

Durvan, what are you going to do after this is over? You said earlier you had some doubts about Elynia’s plan, and you...


Durvan, what are you going to do after this is over? You said earlier you had some doubts about Elynia’s plan, and you...

Yes, I won’t be going with you. Her plan just seems too risky... What the hell is she thinking? Didn’t you say Elorran himself knew his kinsmen couldn’t be trusted? Besides, I won’t be very useful once you arrive there. From what I’ve heard, the natives hate us, and motivating and talking to people is really all I have done ever since I joined Elynia.


Yes, I won’t be going with you. Her plan just seems too risky... What the hell is she thinking? Didn’t you say Elorran himself knew his kinsmen couldn’t be trusted? Besides, I won’t be very useful once you arrive there. From what I’ve heard, the natives hate us, and motivating and talking to people is really all I have done ever since I joined Elynia.


But...

Heh, yes... But you were really brave in the valley...


Heh, yes... But you were really brave in the valley...

I was really <i>stupid</i>! I hadn’t heard of that guy and his fate yet!


I was really <i>stupid</i>! I hadn’t heard of that guy and his fate yet!

Blast it, we have wasted our explosives on the battlefield instead of saving them for the main keep! We can’t continue like this — retreat!


Blast it, we have wasted our explosives on the battlefield instead of saving them for the main keep! We can’t continue like this — retreat!


But... how?

Shapeshifters. They are somewhat different to other demons in that the more mature individuals are much harder to kill without arcane magic than the rest. (<i>disgusted</i>) It’s said they are basically extinct, but some demon lords still keep them as slaves.


Shapeshifters. They are somewhat different to other demons in that the more mature individuals are much harder to kill without arcane magic than the rest. (<i>disgusted</i>) It’s said they are basically extinct, but some demon lords still keep them as slaves.


How do you know that?

Well, Elorran did tell me a lot of things about them...


Well, Elorran did tell me a lot of things about them...

(<i>muttering to herself, aside</i>) ... mainly because I am one of them.


(<i>muttering to herself, aside</i>) ... mainly because I am one of them.

Finally, that thing was a real nuisance.


Finally, that thing was a real nuisance.


Are you leaving now, Elynia?


All right, then.

As much as I dislike General Bardyl and his people, we wouldn’t have achieved this victory without them. I think it’s best to assist them until the battle is over. But I’ll keep the portal in mind if things don’t go as planned later.


As much as I dislike General Bardyl and his people, we wouldn’t have achieved this victory without them. I think it’s best to assist them until the battle is over. But I’ll keep the portal in mind if things don’t go as planned later.


I guess I have to admit I am hesitant to continue...

He said it was a greater cause, after all. I fear that once we step into this portal... We might never come back to these lands alive.


He said it was a greater cause, after all. I fear that once we step into this portal... We might never come back to these lands alive.

Why do you want to come, anyway? Haven’t all my decisions led to awful disasters since we began? All our victories have been small in the grand scheme of things, and many have died because of my desire for answers... and revenge.


Why do you want to come, anyway? Haven’t all my decisions led to awful disasters since we began? All our victories have been small in the grand scheme of things, and many have died because of my desire for answers... and revenge.

Elynia... While all that is true, you can’t deny you have helped us all do more good than any of us alone could otherwise. No-one is perfect...


Elynia... While all that is true, you can’t deny you have helped us all do more good than any of us alone could otherwise. No-one is perfect...


... not even gods, as it turns out.

... But most importantly, we work as a team! I for one promise I won’t give up in the face of danger—


... But most importantly, we work as a team! I for one promise I won’t give up in the face of danger—

Yes, I know. Galas never gave up either...


Yes, I know. Galas never gave up either...


Nor did Mal Keshar.


... That is true... too true.

I understand that you won’t be joining us in this suicidal mission, Durvan, so... What will you do?


I understand that you won’t be joining us in this suicidal mission, Durvan, so... What will you do?

Eh, I will just stay safe and sound here and help defend the castle until I find a way to return home. Maybe try to convince that general or Lord Torancyn—


Eh, I will just stay safe and sound here and help defend the castle until I find a way to return home. Maybe try to convince that general or Lord Torancyn—


Supreme Lord Torancyn. (snickers)

... They might be willing to send someone to check the situation in Kalari if you can secure the portal from the other side.


... They might be willing to send someone to check the situation in Kalari if you can secure the portal from the other side.

I hope that is the case, yes. Bardyl seemed rather grateful for our assistance at the end of the day.


I hope that is the case, yes. Bardyl seemed rather grateful for our assistance at the end of the day.

I doubt Bardyl will understand that I simply could not tarry here for longer than strictly necessary, especially since ‘my’ little band failed to live up to his expectations. And Torancyn... I wouldn’t bet on his support at this point.


I doubt Bardyl will understand that I simply could not tarry here for longer than strictly necessary, especially since ‘my’ little band failed to live up to his expectations. And Torancyn... I wouldn’t bet on his support at this point.

Many of our men seem willing to follow you. I just don’t know what their motivation is — money, bloodshed, adventure? It’s rather strange, really. But I’m sure you could use their help.


Many of our men seem willing to follow you. I just don’t know what their motivation is — money, bloodshed, adventure? It’s rather strange, really. But I’m sure you could use their help.


What will you do, Horo, Kyara?

Well, returning home is out of the question for me with Tirigaz gone. Those vermin will surely head back here as soon as they hear of our victory, presumably led by that hideous demon midget... Right now, there’d be nothing more satisfying for me than breaking his stumpy neck and wearing his hollow skull as a helmet.


Well, returning home is out of the question for me with Tirigaz gone. Those vermin will surely head back here as soon as they hear of our victory, presumably led by that hideous demon midget... Right now, there’d be nothing more satisfying for me than breaking his stumpy neck and wearing his hollow skull as a helmet.

As soon as I may, I’m returning to Quenoth Isle to spread the word about all these events... Perhaps, if the war comes to an end first, we could even send some people back here, to trade with the humans and orcs... I know that’s all very unlikely with the current state of things, but... (<i>shrugs</i>) dreaming never hurt anybody.


As soon as I may, I’m returning to Quenoth Isle to spread the word about all these events... Perhaps, if the war comes to an end first, we could even send some people back here, to trade with the humans and orcs... I know that’s all very unlikely with the current state of things, but... (<i>shrugs</i>) dreaming never hurt anybody.


There’s absolutely <i>nothing</i> hinting at this place having served as a Chaos base of any sort in recent times. It’s completely deserted and ruined. I fear we have been misled. We might not even be in Kalari for all I know.

No. I recognize that mountain range to the south. We... we never saw what lay north of it. We are a little farther from Kalari than I expected, but it’s not like any of us—or our allies—knew exactly where the Pass of Sorrows is. Let us proceed south, carefully.


No. I recognize that mountain range to the south. We... we never saw what lay north of it. We are a little farther from Kalari than I expected, but it’s not like any of us—or our allies—knew exactly where the Pass of Sorrows is. Let us proceed south, carefully.

The solitude of this place is unsettling.


The solitude of this place is unsettling.


Ugh. The fog is getting thicker...


Elynia, Irylean... you should see this.

These ruins appear to be centuries old — probably older than the Chaos Empire itself. I imagine they have remained untouched by our enemies because of their inconvenient location. What may have become of their former denizens?


These ruins appear to be centuries old — probably older than the Chaos Empire itself. I imagine they have remained untouched by our enemies because of their inconvenient location. What may have become of their former denizens?


There’s a large monolith over there.

I don’t understand this inscription — some glyphs vaguely resemble the ancient ceremonial Elvish script, but I don’t recognize the rest.


I don’t understand this inscription — some glyphs vaguely resemble the ancient ceremonial Elvish script, but I don’t recognize the rest.


Wait...


Wh— What’s going on?

This pass is inhabited by restless spirits of the past! My lady!


This pass is inhabited by restless spirits of the past! My lady!

There seem to be more undead creatures crawling out of the caverns to the south. Perhaps if we can clear them out we’ll find a way out of this valley.


There seem to be more undead creatures crawling out of the caverns to the south. Perhaps if we can clear them out we’ll find a way out of this valley.


Thank... you...

The lich’s staff is glowing! What could it possibly mean?


The lich’s staff is glowing! What could it possibly mean?


Free...


... at last...


Who are you?


Argan...


Elynia...


I— I am fine. Don’t worry about it.

We don’t know what lies outside. Are you sure you want to proceed, my lady?


We don’t know what lies outside. Are you sure you want to proceed, my lady?


Very well.


A lone troll?

He bears an unusual sigil on his armor for a troll...


He bears an unusual sigil on his armor for a troll...

Hail there, whoever you are. Are you our enemy?


Hail there, whoever you are. Are you our enemy?

Cron works for no-one but the storm lady.


Cron works for no-one but the storm lady.

(<i>whispering</i>) Elynia, would that be...


(<i>whispering</i>) Elynia, would that be...


(<i>whispering</i>) Yes, I think so.

Cron, if you allow me to ask, where is this person? We... may or may not have arranged a meeting with her, here. This is a quite urgent matter, and... Are you even listening to me?


Cron, if you allow me to ask, where is this person? We... may or may not have arranged a meeting with her, here. This is a quite urgent matter, and... Are you even listening to me?


(<i>pointing at the sky</i>) There.

(whispering) All right... I think these two look rather frightening...


(whispering) All right... I think these two look rather frightening...

Ergea, Demon Lord of the Storms, I suppose?


Ergea, Demon Lord of the Storms, I suppose?

That is correct, Elynia, the Lady of Light. I have been eagerly awaiting this moment for weeks. What took you and your party so long? I heard you hired the services of the northerners to prepare an assault to the gateway fortress, instead of infiltrating it on your own. That wasteful spectacle could have ruined our plans.


That is correct, Elynia, the Lady of Light. I have been eagerly awaiting this moment for weeks. What took you and your party so long? I heard you hired the services of the northerners to prepare an assault to the gateway fortress, instead of infiltrating it on your own. That wasteful spectacle could have ruined our plans.

And your plans are intended to help us, or is this just part of a convoluted scheme to catch me off-guard near your headquarters?


And your plans are intended to help us, or is this just part of a convoluted scheme to catch me off-guard near your headquarters?

My priority is putting a halt to Uria’s schemes, preferably while keeping collateral damage to a minimum. There just are not a lot of people these days who can truly be trusted. I had to ask the human seer to deliver my message to you because sensing people’s intentions is not one of your powers, and you have committed too many mistakes as of late in that vein, much like Elorran.


My priority is putting a halt to Uria’s schemes, preferably while keeping collateral damage to a minimum. There just are not a lot of people these days who can truly be trusted. I had to ask the human seer to deliver my message to you because sensing people’s intentions is not one of your powers, and you have committed too many mistakes as of late in that vein, much like Elorran.


Elorran...?

I tried to warn him that Zhangor sent his new pets after him, but that fool never allowed my minions to approach him or his informants. I assume he never told you that—


I tried to warn him that Zhangor sent his new pets after him, but that fool never allowed my minions to approach him or his informants. I assume he never told you that—


Repeat that name.


Zhangor?


How...?

He recently became the Fist of Uria. I thought Elorran and you of all people on Irdya would be aware of this.


He recently became the Fist of Uria. I thought Elorran and you of all people on Irdya would be aware of this.


Elynia? You don’t look good...

Wh— why...? Why is he here? Why is he... on Irdya... again? I— I did everything within my power to... to...


Wh— why...? Why is he here? Why is he... on Irdya... again? I— I did everything within my power to... to...

Destroying a shapeshifter of his level is nigh impossible; and frankly, you never truly learned to employ the Power of the Union effectively. Argan and you played around with it like children instead of working towards harnessing its full potential. But I don’t blame you. There is a lot you need to learn right now, and I can help you with that. However, we are running out of time.


Destroying a shapeshifter of his level is nigh impossible; and frankly, you never truly learned to employ the Power of the Union effectively. Argan and you played around with it like children instead of working towards harnessing its full potential. But I don’t blame you. There is a lot you need to learn right now, and I can help you with that. However, we are running out of time.


Will you help me?

I came to seek your help only because our goals converge on the ultimate purpose of ending this war. I can only help you if you are willing to help us — and first I need to speak to you in private.


I came to seek your help only because our goals converge on the ultimate purpose of ending this war. I can only help you if you are willing to help us — and first I need to speak to you in private.


Still awake? You haven’t slept well in months.

I just can’t get to sleep knowing that we are in this land, Anya — it brings back bad memories.


I just can’t get to sleep knowing that we are in this land, Anya — it brings back bad memories.


I understand.

I am still worried about tomorrow. Ergea said reinforcements were coming for us, but we have not gotten confirmation from Aran-Balgur and that damned portal closed on its own. And regardless, it would be foolish to rely on Bardyl and his people.


I am still worried about tomorrow. Ergea said reinforcements were coming for us, but we have not gotten confirmation from Aran-Balgur and that damned portal closed on its own. And regardless, it would be foolish to rely on Bardyl and his people.

We still have the undead, and surely Ergea wouldn’t lie to us?


We still have the undead, and surely Ergea wouldn’t lie to us?

I suppose not, but her sources might not necessarily be the most reliable. For all we know, they could have already betrayed her. They might be leading us to a slaughter, and—


I suppose not, but her sources might not necessarily be the most reliable. For all we know, they could have already betrayed her. They might be leading us to a slaughter, and—

(<i>holding Elynia’s hand</i>) I am sure... that with Ergea’s power and yours, we can do this. The bulk of their forces went north, the Triad is now missing that disgusting lich... and we will be joined by those reinforcements soon — I hope. And if we are meant to die here, then we’ll all die fighting for a just cause.


(<i>holding Elynia’s hand</i>) I am sure... that with Ergea’s power and yours, we can do this. The bulk of their forces went north, the Triad is now missing that disgusting lich... and we will be joined by those reinforcements soon — I hope. And if we are meant to die here, then we’ll all die fighting for a just cause.


... Well, yes...

But somehow, I feel that everything will go well!


But somehow, I feel that everything will go well!

I got the impression that she’s simply been through too much in her life, and it’s surely not her fault. From what I gather, Urvatha, the world we usually call Inferno... is decidedly not the best place to live. Demon Lords competing for succession and killing each other all the time, oppressing and enslaving their subjects, and Uria coercing them into doing her bidding by abusing the ancient powers she was granted by destiny...


I got the impression that she’s simply been through too much in her life, and it’s surely not her fault. From what I gather, Urvatha, the world we usually call Inferno... is decidedly not the best place to live. Demon Lords competing for succession and killing each other all the time, oppressing and enslaving their subjects, and Uria coercing them into doing her bidding by abusing the ancient powers she was granted by destiny...

I can only say that Ergea is a much nicer person in reality if you know how to approach her.


I can only say that Ergea is a much nicer person in reality if you know how to approach her.

Hm. (<i>smiling</i>) I guess you would have enjoyed talking with Elorran, too.


Hm. (<i>smiling</i>) I guess you would have enjoyed talking with Elorran, too.


I guess.

So, why did you not tell us that you were a shapeshifter?


So, why did you not tell us that you were a shapeshifter?

(<i>surprised</i>) I... What are you talking about?


(<i>surprised</i>) I... What are you talking about?

I did hear your quiet remark when we were fighting those creatures in Aran-Balgur. Having spent a considerable part of my life in the wild, did you expect any less? I imagine your sense of hearing is just as good despite your smaller ears.


I did hear your quiet remark when we were fighting those creatures in Aran-Balgur. Having spent a considerable part of my life in the wild, did you expect any less? I imagine your sense of hearing is just as good despite your smaller ears.

Well... I... I think I have never felt comfortable with my heritage. After all... it is the very reason of my abandonment as a child...


Well... I... I think I have never felt comfortable with my heritage. After all... it is the very reason of my abandonment as a child...

I can only wonder why I wasn’t raised by my real parents. Who were they? Could they still be out there, alive? But on second thought... perhaps I don’t want to know.


I can only wonder why I wasn’t raised by my real parents. Who were they? Could they still be out there, alive? But on second thought... perhaps I don’t want to know.

If I had told you from the very beginning that I am a shapeshifter, you would have never trusted me. How can you trust a creature who could be concealing their true appearance and nature?


If I had told you from the very beginning that I am a shapeshifter, you would have never trusted me. How can you trust a creature who could be concealing their true appearance and nature?


Are you, though?

Sigh. I guess I still am. I simply can’t act differently after all I have been through. I have lived for longer than any of you, even Ergea. It’s been so long, I have already forgotten most of the good things... even Argan...


Sigh. I guess I still am. I simply can’t act differently after all I have been through. I have lived for longer than any of you, even Ergea. It’s been so long, I have already forgotten most of the good things... even Argan...

At this point it’s easier to recall my worst decisions, the utter destruction of an era of balance and life, the fall of my people, the horrors wrought by Zhangor... the blood of my husband, in my own hands and drawn with my own power... and my... friends... killed or destroyed in front of me... before I could do... do anything to prevent it...


At this point it’s easier to recall my worst decisions, the utter destruction of an era of balance and life, the fall of my people, the horrors wrought by Zhangor... the blood of my husband, in my own hands and drawn with my own power... and my... friends... killed or destroyed in front of me... before I could do... do anything to prevent it...

... I fear it, Anya... I fear what I could do if I allowed myself to be controlled by my emotions.


... I fear it, Anya... I fear what I could do if I allowed myself to be controlled by my emotions.

Elynia... I’m sorry, I did not mean to make you feel like this.


Elynia... I’m sorry, I did not mean to make you feel like this.

... No, I am the one who should apologize. Perhaps if I shared my feelings with other people more often, I...


... No, I am the one who should apologize. Perhaps if I shared my feelings with other people more often, I...

I haven’t lived for a thousand years, but I know that it is true — you would feel much better with yourself if you talked with us instead of blindly killing creature after creature to relieve your pain.


I haven’t lived for a thousand years, but I know that it is true — you would feel much better with yourself if you talked with us instead of blindly killing creature after creature to relieve your pain.

Perhaps... you could do that? Talk with us more often?


Perhaps... you could do that? Talk with us more often?

Yes, I could... If we survive this encounter, that is.


Yes, I could... If we survive this encounter, that is.


But you must promise!


... I promise.


(<i>smiling</i>)

If I may ask, for how long have you been serving under Ergea’s banner and why?


If I may ask, for how long have you been serving under Ergea’s banner and why?

Cron works for the storm lady since his home in the mountains was taken by the flying metal-shells. He was promised things in return for protection.


Cron works for the storm lady since his home in the mountains was taken by the flying metal-shells. He was promised things in return for protection.


Protection?

The storm lady does not trust the masked men and their rusty swords. She prefers help from Cron and the lizard people of the swamps. She feels safer this way.


The storm lady does not trust the masked men and their rusty swords. She prefers help from Cron and the lizard people of the swamps. She feels safer this way.

What kind of things did she promise to you?


What kind of things did she promise to you?

The lady promised us a new home if we can help her kill the Iron Council and their leader, Zhangor.


The lady promised us a new home if we can help her kill the Iron Council and their leader, Zhangor.

Hm, is her intention to seize Kalari for her own people and allies then?


Hm, is her intention to seize Kalari for her own people and allies then?

Cron must not discuss the storm lady’s plans with anyone else.


Cron must not discuss the storm lady’s plans with anyone else.


... Fair enough.

There’s a lot of things awaiting us tomorrow, and we will need all the help we can get. Do you think your people will accede?


There’s a lot of things awaiting us tomorrow, and we will need all the help we can get. Do you think your people will accede?

Cron is very sure they will, but they are not many, and they cannot help as much as they want.


Cron is very sure they will, but they are not many, and they cannot help as much as they want.

A little help is better than nothing — Ergea said we would be getting reinforcements, but I don’t find that likely to happen.


A little help is better than nothing — Ergea said we would be getting reinforcements, but I don’t find that likely to happen.


The storm lady always says the truth.

Yes... that’s very true... Too true, perhaps.


Yes... that’s very true... Too true, perhaps.

You seem very weary, my lady. Shouldn’t you be getting some sleep?


You seem very weary, my lady. Shouldn’t you be getting some sleep?

Yes... But you know the situation with that. So, do you think your disciples will be able to help? Can they be trusted?


Yes... But you know the situation with that. So, do you think your disciples will be able to help? Can they be trusted?

They have proven to be quite reliable thus far, haven’t they? Unfortunately, I can’t know whether they intend to betray us at the end like your previous assistant did, my lady. If they were consorting with our enemy they’d make sure we wouldn’t find out until it was too late.


They have proven to be quite reliable thus far, haven’t they? Unfortunately, I can’t know whether they intend to betray us at the end like your previous assistant did, my lady. If they were consorting with our enemy they’d make sure we wouldn’t find out until it was too late.

Indeed. That’s why I am worried. If only Galas were still with us... He always seemed to make the right choices.


Indeed. That’s why I am worried. If only Galas were still with us... He always seemed to make the right choices.


Hm... perhaps.

If you don’t mind the question, why did you retire before?


If you don’t mind the question, why did you retire before?

I guess it was a combination of circumstances... I felt Galas’ decision to delegate the government of your people to those four was horribly ill-advised. Then you all decided to go south and... I knew that wouldn’t end well for me. From what I heard that fellow Erathan didn’t fare well in the capital.


I guess it was a combination of circumstances... I felt Galas’ decision to delegate the government of your people to those four was horribly ill-advised. Then you all decided to go south and... I knew that wouldn’t end well for me. From what I heard that fellow Erathan didn’t fare well in the capital.

That’s unfortunately true. And I suppose I owe you an apology for forcing you to come here.


That’s unfortunately true. And I suppose I owe you an apology for forcing you to come here.

Bah, nobody can force me to go anywhere if I don’t want to!


Bah, nobody can force me to go anywhere if I don’t want to!


So, what were your motives?

My lady, I am old, and I already spent enough time in the Far North to know that it could never be my home. Plus, it is because of these bastards that my master’s time in this world came to such an abrupt end. You know what I mean with this — I have seen it in your eyes, your thirst for revenge and how you quench it with the blood of your enemies...


My lady, I am old, and I already spent enough time in the Far North to know that it could never be my home. Plus, it is because of these bastards that my master’s time in this world came to such an abrupt end. You know what I mean with this — I have seen it in your eyes, your thirst for revenge and how you quench it with the blood of your enemies...


I do not want to talk of that now.

Well... my apologies if I have offended you, my lady. It was not my intention. I’ll just... go back to watching over the encampment, silently, as usual.


Well... my apologies if I have offended you, my lady. It was not my intention. I’ll just... go back to watching over the encampment, silently, as usual.

So, did you solve your little problem with that staff?


So, did you solve your little problem with that staff?

Well, yes. It’s quite interesting, actually. It turns out that with some adjustments to my shielding spell, I can channel the staff’s aura and become immune to poison myself!


Well, yes. It’s quite interesting, actually. It turns out that with some adjustments to my shielding spell, I can channel the staff’s aura and become immune to poison myself!

... And that would be why you asked me to heal you from the symptoms of a ‘cold’ at least ten times during the day, right?


... And that would be why you asked me to heal you from the symptoms of a ‘cold’ at least ten times during the day, right?


... Right.

I mean, if you think it’s safe to use the artifact like that, I’m in no place to stop you. My knowledge of necromancy is not exhaustive enough to know exactly how that staff works or whether it might be hazardous to its user. Just... be careful when using it near our people, please?


I mean, if you think it’s safe to use the artifact like that, I’m in no place to stop you. My knowledge of necromancy is not exhaustive enough to know exactly how that staff works or whether it might be hazardous to its user. Just... be careful when using it near our people, please?


I will be, my lady, don’t worry!


Anya...


Yes?


Good night.


Sleep well!

It’s time, Cron. Please take care of Anya in my absence.


It’s time, Cron. Please take care of Anya in my absence.

Cron will do his best to make sure nothing bad happens to the storm lady’s friends.


Cron will do his best to make sure nothing bad happens to the storm lady’s friends.


Hm.


Elynia, are you there?


What brings you here?

The captain said we are not supposed to let anyone in for now! You’ll have to wait until he comes back from his inspection.


The captain said we are not supposed to let anyone in for now! You’ll have to wait until he comes back from his inspection.

Time is of the essence. Do you really wish to anger your masters by making them wait more than is absolutely necessary?


Time is of the essence. Do you really wish to anger your masters by making them wait more than is absolutely necessary?

Look, wench, our masters can go to hell for all I care. You can either deliver your damn message to the captain and convince him to let you pass, or just forget about it. Unless you would prefer to entertain us for a while in exchange for letting you pass, heh heh.


Look, wench, our masters can go to hell for all I care. You can either deliver your damn message to the captain and convince him to let you pass, or just forget about it. Unless you would prefer to entertain us for a while in exchange for letting you pass, heh heh.

I want to speak to your captain. Where is he?


I want to speak to your captain. Where is he?

He’s probably in the storerooms right now. Go to your right and turn at the last passage down the corridor.


He’s probably in the storerooms right now. Go to your right and turn at the last passage down the corridor.


Who goes there?

Sir, I have been sent by the Demon Lord of the Storms to bring a message to—


Sir, I have been sent by the Demon Lord of the Storms to bring a message to—

Is it anything you aren’t allowed to pass on to me?


Is it anything you aren’t allowed to pass on to me?

The Fire does not want to see anyone right now in her chamber, or anywhere else for that matter. She said so herself: “I don’t want anyone coming into this fortress tonight”. Maybe those deaf sluggards at the main gate need a lesson or two...?


The Fire does not want to see anyone right now in her chamber, or anywhere else for that matter. She said so herself: “I don’t want anyone coming into this fortress tonight”. Maybe those deaf sluggards at the main gate need a lesson or two...?


What’s your name, girl?


Vyrelyam, sir.

I hadn’t seen your face around before. But there’s something oddly familiar about it...


I hadn’t seen your face around before. But there’s something oddly familiar about it...

Is that so? ... Perhaps you may also recall torturing an elf or two...


Is that so? ... Perhaps you may also recall torturing an elf or two...


YOU—

Well... that didn’t work as planned. We must find a way to open that gate by ourselves.


Well... that didn’t work as planned. We must find a way to open that gate by ourselves.


There she is!

Your illusions can’t deceive me, faerie witch!


Your illusions can’t deceive me, faerie witch!


Seize her, quickly!

There goes our infiltration plan. To arms!


There goes our infiltration plan. To arms!

elynia^This is not the right corridor. We must find a way leading to the transport room.


elynia^This is not the right corridor. We must find a way leading to the transport room.

elynia^That is not the right corridor. We must find a way leading to the transport room.


elynia^That is not the right corridor. We must find a way leading to the transport room.

Just a bunch of gold coins. Too bad that they are rather weighty and we have no use for them at this time.


Just a bunch of gold coins. Too bad that they are rather weighty and we have no use for them at this time.


There’s nothing in this chest.

This potion flask seems important. Let the Lady of Light come to examine it.


This potion flask seems important. Let the Lady of Light come to examine it.


Hm, this might prove useful later.

We must all enter the transport room together — nobody should be left behind.


We must all enter the transport room together — nobody should be left behind.


I recognize this corridor. Onwards!

The Lady of Light and her foolish new cohorts, eh? We should have known that Ergea and her kind couldn’t be trusted. Hopefully you enjoy their company, for we intend to send you all to the abyss together, and not precisely to die...


The Lady of Light and her foolish new cohorts, eh? We should have known that Ergea and her kind couldn’t be trusted. Hopefully you enjoy their company, for we intend to send you all to the abyss together, and not precisely to die...

The Lady of Light, eh? We should have known that Ergea and her kind couldn’t be trusted. Too bad that your cohorts didn’t make it; we wanted to send you all to the abyss together, and not precisely to die...


The Lady of Light, eh? We should have known that Ergea and her kind couldn’t be trusted. Too bad that your cohorts didn’t make it; we wanted to send you all to the abyss together, and not precisely to die...

Our masters are busy with their own inscrutable plans, and the fortress defenses are already disposing of your pathetic allies above. But it is not your place to ask questions here. Now...


Our masters are busy with their own inscrutable plans, and the fortress defenses are already disposing of your pathetic allies above. But it is not your place to ask questions here. Now...

Would you prefer to go down fighting, or surrender and let us take you to the Fire?


Would you prefer to go down fighting, or surrender and let us take you to the Fire?


I’ll let you have a guess.

... heh. The Fire was right... about you...


... heh. The Fire was right... about you...

Those passages appear to lead somewhere.


Those passages appear to lead somewhere.

A secret passage. Not particularly ingenious. Although... it might lead to the cave Ergea mentioned.


A secret passage. Not particularly ingenious. Although... it might lead to the cave Ergea mentioned.


Wait. There’s someone else in here...

It’s the other necromancer, member of the Iron Triad. Perhaps, if we take her down... we might be able to force her to give us some directions.


It’s the other necromancer, member of the Iron Triad. Perhaps, if we take her down... we might be able to force her to give us some directions.

It’s the other necromancer, member of the Iron Triad. Perhaps, if I take her down... I might be able to force her to give me some directions.


It’s the other necromancer, member of the Iron Triad. Perhaps, if I take her down... I might be able to force her to give me some directions.

You are the other necromancer from the Iron Triad, aren’t you? Where is your master hiding? Where is the Ruby of Fire?


You are the other necromancer from the Iron Triad, aren’t you? Where is your master hiding? Where is the Ruby of Fire?


Are you going to answer?


I don’t have time for this.

Devoid of her own will... and turned into a living puppet... Suddenly, defeating her does not seem to be much of an achievement. I don’t think I saw anything like this the last time I was here. Why would they do this to her, though?


Devoid of her own will... and turned into a living puppet... Suddenly, defeating her does not seem to be much of an achievement. I don’t think I saw anything like this the last time I was here. Why would they do this to her, though?

Indeed, let us continue down this passage. If Ergea’s instructions are correct, there is a large stone chamber ahead.


Indeed, let us continue down this passage. If Ergea’s instructions are correct, there is a large stone chamber ahead.

I should just continue down this passage. If Ergea’s instructions are correct, there is a large stone chamber ahead.


I should just continue down this passage. If Ergea’s instructions are correct, there is a large stone chamber ahead.


We are trapped in this chamber...


I am trapped in this chamber...

(<i>chuckles</i>) That’s were you want us to go. Isn’t that correct... Elyssa?


(<i>chuckles</i>) That’s were you want us to go. Isn’t that correct... Elyssa?

(<i>chuckles</i>) That’s were you want me to go. Isn’t that correct... Elyssa?


(<i>chuckles</i>) That’s were you want me to go. Isn’t that correct... Elyssa?

You could have opened the gate for me, at the very least.


You could have opened the gate for me, at the very least.

... So you want me to proceed alone. Very well, then.


I will be truly disappointed if you aren’t waiting behind that gate...


Hm...

I have been awaiting this moment for so long, Elyssa. Or should I call you Yechnagoth?


I have been awaiting this moment for so long, Elyssa. Or should I call you Yechnagoth?


Yechnagoth is no more.

Do you truly believe that such cheap tricks can stop me?


Do you truly believe that such cheap tricks can stop me?

I suppose I may as well call you an impostor then. I have read Argan’s journal — you weren’t destined to possess those powers.


I suppose I may as well call you an impostor then. I have read Argan’s journal — you weren’t destined to possess those powers.

It was never my choice, dear. And even if it were the case, I have never actually <i>claimed</i> to be Merthiaal.


It was never my choice, dear. And even if it were the case, I have never actually <i>claimed</i> to be Merthiaal.

I have to admit that you are quite agile for a winged faerie.


I have to admit that you are quite agile for a winged faerie.

Alas, that will not be sufficient to defeat me.


Alas, that will not be sufficient to defeat me.

I had hoped you would have learned new tricks since we last met.


I had hoped you would have learned new tricks since we last met.

As much as I would not mind to keep doing this forever...


As much as I would not mind to keep doing this forever...

You purposefully misled us by removing any references to the final whereabouts of Yechnagoth’s heart from Argan’s journal, didn’t you?


You purposefully misled us by removing any references to the final whereabouts of Yechnagoth’s heart from Argan’s journal, didn’t you?

I admit that I took some pages from Argan’s journal some time before you acquired it from him, yes; I also changed a few other things for your <i>convenience</i>.


I admit that I took some pages from Argan’s journal some time before you acquired it from him, yes; I also changed a few other things for your <i>convenience</i>.

You killed Galas before my very eyes. You are responsible for Mal Keshar’s destruction. And for the deaths of millions.


You killed Galas before my very eyes. You are responsible for Mal Keshar’s destruction. And for the deaths of millions.

(<i>chuckles</i>) It was all part of the plan! All those deaths were necessary to appease Uria and prepare our vast stage for this day — the vast stage we normally call ‘Irdya’. My business with that elf you secretly loved was not personal.


(<i>chuckles</i>) It was all part of the plan! All those deaths were necessary to appease Uria and prepare our vast stage for this day — the vast stage we normally call ‘Irdya’. My business with that elf you secretly loved was not personal.


How did you—

Those who can harness the Aspect of Darkness can read into the minds of weaker creatures at will. Did you not know this?


Those who can harness the Aspect of Darkness can read into the minds of weaker creatures at will. Did you not know this?

Of course you didn’t. You have wasted your entire life pursuing the most banal objectives. You never bothered to try to understand that power you had. Argan and you could have done great things if you had learned what the Union truly entails.


Of course you didn’t. You have wasted your entire life pursuing the most banal objectives. You never bothered to try to understand that power you had. Argan and you could have done great things if you had learned what the Union truly entails.

You have lived awake for over eight hundred years, and yet... you are still an incompetent little brat. Such is the curse of eternal youth, I guess?


You have lived awake for over eight hundred years, and yet... you are still an incompetent little brat. Such is the curse of eternal youth, I guess?


Are you not exhausted already? You sure are persistent. I could end you with a single strike if I wanted...


THEN WHY DON’T YOU DO IT?!

Is that what you truly want, then? Do you seek the cold touch of death?


Is that what you truly want, then? Do you seek the cold touch of death?

And yet, you fear it. You haven’t been able to bring yourself to put an end to this, but why?


And yet, you fear it. You haven’t been able to bring yourself to put an end to this, but why?

Is it that you are unable to assume responsibility for your own decisions anymore?


Is it that you are unable to assume responsibility for your own decisions anymore?


I see. Frankly, this is quite disappointing. I thought Argan and Galas saw <i>something</i> in you besides your pretty face and hair.


Oh, my bad. I forgot to mention that... You really want to know, don’t you? Yes, Galas <i>did</i> want to reciprocate your feelings, but he never did so... because you were too busy grieving over Argan’s death like a little girl.


Perhaps, if you were not so stupid and ignorant of your own power... you would have been able to save Argan in the first place. Don’t you think?


Shut...


UP!!!


... What—


Heh, heh, heh...


Good...

But still not sufficient to defeat a Guardian of Darkness, my dear.


But still not sufficient to defeat a Guardian of Darkness, my dear.

I had thought that this would be a fair fight, but in the end it was merely a foolish hope. What do you think?


I had thought that this would be a fair fight, but in the end it was merely a foolish hope. What do you think?

On the other hand, you are still alive and able to stand. I am impressed.


On the other hand, you are still alive and able to stand. I am impressed.


What... are you... waiting for...


Heh.


My scouts have just informed me that the bulk of the region’s defenses are already in motion and heading for our present location. They shall be here in just a few hours. It is possible that someone betrayed us, or...


... She is not coming back, is she?

She must have had a good reason for leaving us like this, Anya. Well... I hope so, anyway. My lady, what about those reinforcements?


She must have had a good reason for leaving us like this, Anya. Well... I hope so, anyway. My lady, what about those reinforcements?

Let us get moving then. Anya shall lead the way!


Let us get moving then. Anya shall lead the way!


I... shall?

That’s what Elynia said in that note, did she not? But you don’t need to worry about the management aspect — we can help you with that. Your darkness powers and teleportation should be advantageous in the front line, but it’s more important that these men are led by someone with whom they are already well familiarized besides Elynia herself — another <i>someone</i> they can relate to, if you catch my drift.


That’s what Elynia said in that note, did she not? But you don’t need to worry about the management aspect — we can help you with that. Your darkness powers and teleportation should be advantageous in the front line, but it’s more important that these men are led by someone with whom they are already well familiarized besides Elynia herself — another <i>someone</i> they can relate to, if you catch my drift.


... Wait... you mean...


Yes!

(<i>annoyed</i>) Your rationale seems rather perverse, and it’s slightly offensive considering I have never... unlike... Ack! How about... we just... move on?!


(<i>annoyed</i>) Your rationale seems rather perverse, and it’s slightly offensive considering I have never... unlike... Ack! How about... we just... move on?!

I support the motion. This is no time for such frivolous chatter.


I support the motion. This is no time for such frivolous chatter.


So bold— argh...

The Fist shall not tolerate your intrusion...


The Fist shall not tolerate your intrusion...

No, n— please no! My fair lady of the Storms, I— I did not have a choice! The Fist— I— I—


No, n— please no! My fair lady of the Storms, I— I did not have a choice! The Fist— I— I—

You betrayed me and my people. There is only one possible punishment for such a grave misdeed under my rule and you are well aware what it is.


You betrayed me and my people. There is only one possible punishment for such a grave misdeed under my rule and you are well aware what it is.


No! I beg you—

The old order is coming to an end at last, and in time, freedom will be ours!


The old order is coming to an end at last, and in time, freedom will be ours!

Let us purge the foul worshipers of Uria and reclaim our ancestors’ lands!


Let us purge the foul worshipers of Uria and reclaim our ancestors’ lands!

I don’t understand... It should be dawn already!


I don’t understand... It should be dawn already!

The... day of the Longest Night... This does not bode well.


The... day of the Longest Night... This does not bode well.

We failed to secure that portal in time! Without those reinforcements we will never make it! Retreat!


We failed to secure that portal in time! Without those reinforcements we will never make it! Retreat!


Uh... It seems we arrived just in time.

Durvan! I thought you would be on your way back home by now!


Durvan! I thought you would be on your way back home by now!

I changed my mind, I guess? I can’t shake off the feeling that I’ll regret this later, though. Where is Elynia?


I changed my mind, I guess? I can’t shake off the feeling that I’ll regret this later, though. Where is Elynia?


We don’t know.

You may discuss that at a later time. For now, it is of utmost importance that we distract or take down Kalari’s military. I am confident that the Alliance troops Sir Durvan has amassed shall serve us well for this mission.


You may discuss that at a later time. For now, it is of utmost importance that we distract or take down Kalari’s military. I am confident that the Alliance troops Sir Durvan has amassed shall serve us well for this mission.

It’s really General Bardyl and Elynia who should get the credit, not me. I merely asked him to lend us a hand, and he gladly acceded, most likely in return for Elynia’s support during the siege of Aran-Balgur. And incidentally, I’m no Sir.


It’s really General Bardyl and Elynia who should get the credit, not me. I merely asked him to lend us a hand, and he gladly acceded, most likely in return for Elynia’s support during the siege of Aran-Balgur. And incidentally, I’m no Sir.

You may discuss that at a later time. For now, it is of utmost importance that we distract or take down Kalari’s military. However, I expected Sir Durvan to provide us with more numerous troops than this.


You may discuss that at a later time. For now, it is of utmost importance that we distract or take down Kalari’s military. However, I expected Sir Durvan to provide us with more numerous troops than this.

General Bardyl wouldn’t accede to spending more lives on a pointless mission after Elynia decided to part ways with him before they could properly reclaim Aran-Balgur. So, I had to make do with low-ranking militiamen and some orcish mercenaries. And incidentally, I’m no Sir.


General Bardyl wouldn’t accede to spending more lives on a pointless mission after Elynia decided to part ways with him before they could properly reclaim Aran-Balgur. So, I had to make do with low-ranking militiamen and some orcish mercenaries. And incidentally, I’m no Sir.

Time is of the essence, Durvan. We need to get moving while the darkness can provide us with an advantage.


Time is of the essence, Durvan. We need to get moving while the darkness can provide us with an advantage.

Sure, these men and women thirst for the blood of these fiends. Lead the way!


Sure, these men and women thirst for the blood of these fiends. Lead the way!

So, Elynia went on a mission to infiltrate the Iron Council’s citadel? What kind of nonsense is that?


So, Elynia went on a mission to infiltrate the Iron Council’s citadel? What kind of nonsense is that?

According to Ergea she went to locate some kind of weapon buried beneath Kalari. I am really worried for her. She just left during the night without telling anyone about her plans. What are we supposed to do now? I mean, other than perpetuating this bloodshed. Ergea says it’s important and that it might be her only chance to succeed. But who knows what kind of abominations await in that place.


According to Ergea she went to locate some kind of weapon buried beneath Kalari. I am really worried for her. She just left during the night without telling anyone about her plans. What are we supposed to do now? I mean, other than perpetuating this bloodshed. Ergea says it’s important and that it might be her only chance to succeed. But who knows what kind of abominations await in that place.

And then there is this inexplicable unending darkness. It <i>is</i> our element, yet I can’t help but find all this dreadfully unnatural and foreboding.


And then there is this inexplicable unending darkness. It <i>is</i> our element, yet I can’t help but find all this dreadfully unnatural and foreboding.

Yes... yes, it is. Maybe I shouldn’t have allowed Ergea to convince me to come here.


Yes... yes, it is. Maybe I shouldn’t have allowed Ergea to convince me to come here.

Ah, so you came back to us because she asked you to?


Ah, so you came back to us because she asked you to?


Hm. I see.

Cron likes the sound of bones breaking under his hammer.


Cron likes the sound of bones breaking under his hammer.

Cron enjoys crushing insolent vermin to death.


Cron enjoys crushing insolent vermin to death.


Get away from me, you beast!


Ummm... Hello?

I was wondering if you are a Naiad? I was told by Tara that your kind are hardly ever seen by anyone at all...


I was wondering if you are a Naiad? I was told by Tara that your kind are hardly ever seen by anyone at all...

Uhhh... yes... the ocean. It looks really ominous here at night, doesn’t it?...


Uhhh... yes... the ocean. It looks really ominous here at night, doesn’t it?...

<i>(sighs)</i> I’m sorry, I should not have bothered you. I guess I will leave you to... whatever it is you are doing...


<i>(sighs)</i> I’m sorry, I should not have bothered you. I guess I will leave you to... whatever it is you are doing...

You truly are a curious creature, Anya, daughter of Mintha. I had never heard before of one born of faerie and demonkind. I suppose it’s only natural that both rarely mingle due to their innate hatred of each other. Although it makes you wonder... because in the very beginning all of us, even humans, were considered ‘demons’ anyway, were we not? We were the spirits brought to life by the Tree.


You truly are a curious creature, Anya, daughter of Mintha. I had never heard before of one born of faerie and demonkind. I suppose it’s only natural that both rarely mingle due to their innate hatred of each other. Although it makes you wonder... because in the very beginning all of us, even humans, were considered ‘demons’ anyway, were we not? We were the spirits brought to life by the Tree.

That name... how can you possibly know that name? I don’t... I don’t understand—


That name... how can you possibly know that name? I don’t... I don’t understand—

I have been keeping an eye on the Lady of Light and her allies for longer than even the Demon Lord and you have. I have seen her rise from the very depths of Irdya, do battle against unfathomable foes hailing from a time and place beyond the Veil, make her way through the accursed hordes of the Mother of Urvatha with the help of the most improbable allies, and carry out her sworn duty despite it taking the heaviest toll of all.


I have been keeping an eye on the Lady of Light and her allies for longer than even the Demon Lord and you have. I have seen her rise from the very depths of Irdya, do battle against unfathomable foes hailing from a time and place beyond the Veil, make her way through the accursed hordes of the Mother of Urvatha with the help of the most improbable allies, and carry out her sworn duty despite it taking the heaviest toll of all.

I guided you towards a relic from the Golden Age as a reward for your unfaltering optimism in the face of adversity.


I guided you towards a relic from the Golden Age as a reward for your unfaltering optimism in the face of adversity.

It doesn’t do anything, though. Elynia said there’s no magic in it.


It doesn’t do anything, though. Elynia said there’s no magic in it.

But does it need to be magic to feel precious to you? Does every experience along your journey need to be viscerally gratifying in order for you to build an emotional attachment to those memories?


But does it need to be magic to feel precious to you? Does every experience along your journey need to be viscerally gratifying in order for you to build an emotional attachment to those memories?

I... suppose you are right. It reminds me so much of her somehow... Oh gods, I hope she is all right...


I... suppose you are right. It reminds me so much of her somehow... Oh gods, I hope she is all right...

The only thing left for me to do is to assist you in this upcoming battle however I can so that you may see the light of day again. I must warn you first, though, the power that was conferred upon me by the Goddess is very limited, and time is running short. I can give you the answer to one question about the past, and a last blessing.


The only thing left for me to do is to assist you in this upcoming battle however I can so that you may see the light of day again. I must warn you first, though, the power that was conferred upon me by the Goddess is very limited, and time is running short. I can give you the answer to one question about the past, and a last blessing.


One question?

This is so unexpected... I don’t know what I should ask...


This is so unexpected... I don’t know what I should ask...


What does your heart tell you?

Their long and grueling journey eventually led them to the great eucalyptus forests of Glamdrol. There it is that they finally found shelter from the scourge of Uria — but not before exhausting all their remaining energy. Shapeshifters may be durable creatures, but that does not make them immortal. On the contrary, constant punishment under their masters only makes them weaker and more prone to diseases specific to their kind. The Nameless One was no exception in this regard.


Their long and grueling journey eventually led them to the great eucalyptus forests of Glamdrol. There it is that they finally found shelter from the scourge of Uria — but not before exhausting all their remaining energy. Shapeshifters may be durable creatures, but that does not make them immortal. On the contrary, constant punishment under their masters only makes them weaker and more prone to diseases specific to their kind. The Nameless One was no exception in this regard.

Ready for their eternal rest, the demon collapsed on the cold forest ground next to a spearmint patch, hopeful that the soothing aroma would ease the pain that was yet to come. They closed their eyes, and the world disappeared. The cold slowly subsided and gave way to a comforting warmth. Never in their life had the Nameless One imagined that the embrace of death could feel so welcoming compared to anything else they experienced.


Ready for their eternal rest, the demon collapsed on the cold forest ground next to a spearmint patch, hopeful that the soothing aroma would ease the pain that was yet to come. They closed their eyes, and the world disappeared. The cold slowly subsided and gave way to a comforting warmth. Never in their life had the Nameless One imagined that the embrace of death could feel so welcoming compared to anything else they experienced.

The language barrier did little to stop the pair from finding a common ground. The shapeshifter figured out soon enough that Mintha had her own particular ways to communicate with others, and she was eager to be around someone who did not avoid her just because of who she was. While she could not tell them her own story, she was happy to listen to the Nameless One tell her all about the vast unknown that lay far beyond Irdya. And she in turn showed them Irdya as it was, and as it is — a world of endless strife, yet also endless beauty.


The language barrier did little to stop the pair from finding a common ground. The shapeshifter figured out soon enough that Mintha had her own particular ways to communicate with others, and she was eager to be around someone who did not avoid her just because of who she was. While she could not tell them her own story, she was happy to listen to the Nameless One tell her all about the vast unknown that lay far beyond Irdya. And she in turn showed them Irdya as it was, and as it is — a world of endless strife, yet also endless beauty.

In time, the shapeshifter and the nymph grew enamored of each other. To the Nameless One, the notion of having a child of their own volition was completely alien, for their kind only bred when required to do so by the Demon Lords, and only with each other. Nevertheless, they promptly found themselves acquiescing to Mintha’s heart desire, and her body would be the one to carry the creature born from their love.


In time, the shapeshifter and the nymph grew enamored of each other. To the Nameless One, the notion of having a child of their own volition was completely alien, for their kind only bred when required to do so by the Demon Lords, and only with each other. Nevertheless, they promptly found themselves acquiescing to Mintha’s heart desire, and her body would be the one to carry the creature born from their love.


What happened next?

I apologize. Like I said, I can only answer one question about the past.


I apologize. Like I said, I can only answer one question about the past.

Well, excuse me if I don’t believe you right now! Surely your goddess must have imparted the full story to you!


Well, excuse me if I don’t believe you right now! Surely your goddess must have imparted the full story to you!


If you must hear the whole story I am afraid you are going to have to ask the Goddess for the rest.


If you must hear the whole story I am afraid you are going to have to ask the Goddess for the rest.

Well, I would if I knew who she is or how to communicate with her!!!


Well, I would if I knew who she is or how to communicate with her!!!

Our kind knows her as Xia’el. Her true name is known by only a counted few, and her domain lies somewhere completely beyond our reach.


Our kind knows her as Xia’el. Her true name is known by only a counted few, and her domain lies somewhere completely beyond our reach.

If that is so then how am I supposed to get there and punch her in the face for telling me an incomplete story?!


If that is so then how am I supposed to get there and punch her in the face for telling me an incomplete story?!

Everything is possible if you set your mind to it!


Everything is possible if you set your mind to it!

Don’t you <i>dare</i> be all sarcastic like some kind of ancient mythical... water faerie... that knows better than a child like me... Argh! I just... I don’t need this right now. I’m sorry for sounding so frustrated. It’s all just... a lot for me to handle.


Don’t you <i>dare</i> be all sarcastic like some kind of ancient mythical... water faerie... that knows better than a child like me... Argh! I just... I don’t need this right now. I’m sorry for sounding so frustrated. It’s all just... a lot for me to handle.

Of all the questions you could have asked, are you absolutely sure that is the one you want answered?


Of all the questions you could have asked, are you absolutely sure that is the one you want answered?

I... Well... That just came to mind, that’s all. Should I ask something else—


I... Well... That just came to mind, that’s all. Should I ask something else—

One question, not two. You already asked the question, and so I must deliver the answer.


One question, not two. You already asked the question, and so I must deliver the answer.

Elynia-Thanadria did have all kinds of lovers back during the Golden Age, both before and after meeting Argan. Her first lover was a young human by the name of—


Elynia-Thanadria did have all kinds of lovers back during the Golden Age, both before and after meeting Argan. Her first lover was a young human by the name of—

NO! Stop! I changed my mind, I don’t want to know. That’s not what I really meant to ask specifically anyway.


NO! Stop! I changed my mind, I don’t want to know. That’s not what I really meant to ask specifically anyway.

I know the answer to your real question though.


I know the answer to your real question though.


Huh?

You wanted to know if she ever had a more intimate relationship with other faeries, did you not?


You wanted to know if she ever had a more intimate relationship with other faeries, did you not?

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!! Look over there, it’s one of those... demolisher monsters! It’s very, veeeeery slowly heading towards us!


AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!! Look over there, it’s one of those... demolisher monsters! It’s very, veeeeery slowly heading towards us!

That is an interesting question for you ask. I did not take you for someone who would be interested in the history of this world.


That is an interesting question for you ask. I did not take you for someone who would be interested in the history of this world.

... Look, I know I’m more than a bit dumb at times—


... Look, I know I’m more than a bit dumb at times—

What I mean is you are an <i>outsider</i>. You may have been born on Irdya, but you do not feel as though you belong here, do you?


What I mean is you are an <i>outsider</i>. You may have been born on Irdya, but you do not feel as though you belong here, do you?

... I guess I really... don’t. How can you read me so well? I mean, besides the whole business with you spying on us.


... I guess I really... don’t. How can you read me so well? I mean, besides the whole business with you spying on us.

There is something surprisingly relatable about you, even though my life so far has been one of complete solitude and yours the opposite. Perhaps it is the fact that we are both daughters of the Darkness in some way. Water and Earth have got to meet each other at some point, after all. But I digress.


There is something surprisingly relatable about you, even though my life so far has been one of complete solitude and yours the opposite. Perhaps it is the fact that we are both daughters of the Darkness in some way. Water and Earth have got to meet each other at some point, after all. But I digress.

The Demon Lord Zhangor may be many things, but a patient schemer he is not. He was provided information about a pivotal event by a source that transcends time, and he did as he saw fit with that information. His thirst for power led him to establish his cult in Wesmere, but he was largely ignorant of what he was doing beyond attempting to become something he is not and will likely never become: a god. So, the answer to your question is no.


The Demon Lord Zhangor may be many things, but a patient schemer he is not. He was provided information about a pivotal event by a source that transcends time, and he did as he saw fit with that information. His thirst for power led him to establish his cult in Wesmere, but he was largely ignorant of what he was doing beyond attempting to become something he is not and will likely never become: a god. So, the answer to your question is no.

But who was responsible then? It all seems so contrived — both the creation of the second sun and the Fall of the third. The Wesnothians could not possibly have figured it out all on their own, could they?


But who was responsible then? It all seems so contrived — both the creation of the second sun and the Fall of the third. The Wesnothians could not possibly have figured it out all on their own, could they?


One question, one answer.


Oh, come on!

This may be worth pondering, though. Some believe their lives are entirely their own doing, that destiny does not exist and that our reality is merely the product of happenstance. The possibility of an unseen force with many hands and eyes having the power to weave the threads of fate into something larger would be too terrifying to consider for mere mortals, after all.


This may be worth pondering, though. Some believe their lives are entirely their own doing, that destiny does not exist and that our reality is merely the product of happenstance. The possibility of an unseen force with many hands and eyes having the power to weave the threads of fate into something larger would be too terrifying to consider for mere mortals, after all.

I’m not sure I understand what you are suggesting... That all events as they have come to pass were preordained by an entity with a will of its own?


I’m not sure I understand what you are suggesting... That all events as they have come to pass were preordained by an entity with a will of its own?

But even if you consider the existence of such a being, is there anyone who can tell you for certain that this hypothetical agent is not being manipulated by a higher entity themselves?


But even if you consider the existence of such a being, is there anyone who can tell you for certain that this hypothetical agent is not being manipulated by a higher entity themselves?

... This is seriously messing with my head. Can we <i>please</i> stop now? I don’t want to go into battle with a migraine.


... This is seriously messing with my head. Can we <i>please</i> stop now? I don’t want to go into battle with a migraine.


... There has been cake in the citadel countless times, so I would venture to say there may be some in there right now.


YES!

It is time, then. The Demon Lord Ergea has already informed you of what you must do next. I shall do my part.


It is time, then. The Demon Lord Ergea has already informed you of what you must do next. I shall do my part.

Old allies want to support you in the upcoming battle. They may struggle on land, but the Iron Council’s citadel is built on the riverside. You may be able to use this to your advantage later.


Old allies want to support you in the upcoming battle. They may struggle on land, but the Iron Council’s citadel is built on the riverside. You may be able to use this to your advantage later.

The reckoning with these monsters is at hand, brothers and sisters!


The reckoning with these monsters is at hand, brothers and sisters!

Purge the unholy beasts from our waters and help the northerners seize Uria’s dark citadel!


Purge the unholy beasts from our waters and help the northerners seize Uria’s dark citadel!


And now, I shall fight alongside you.

Oh! We would be honored to have you by our side... er...


Oh! We would be honored to have you by our side... er...

Daeira. Few creatures on this world have ever heard my name and even fewer have lived to tell others of my existence.


Daeira. Few creatures on this world have ever heard my name and even fewer have lived to tell others of my existence.

Um... all right! I think I’ve kept Ergea and the others waiting long enough, so... time to go, I think.


Um... all right! I think I’ve kept Ergea and the others waiting long enough, so... time to go, I think.

And now, I must leave. Farewell, Anya, and may Xia’el’s blessings accompany you on this fight.


And now, I must leave. Farewell, Anya, and may Xia’el’s blessings accompany you on this fight.

... I think I’ve kept Ergea and the others waiting long enough.


... I think I’ve kept Ergea and the others waiting long enough.

Taking their river settlements, vanquishing their leaders, and leaving their troops in utter disarray ought to be enough to keep the Iron Council distracted for a short interval. It is time to take the fight to the citadel itself.


Taking their river settlements, vanquishing their leaders, and leaving their troops in utter disarray ought to be enough to keep the Iron Council distracted for a short interval. It is time to take the fight to the citadel itself.

The situation is not as favorable as I wished. We ought to take the fight closer to the Iron Council’s citadel if we want to keep their attention away from Elynia.


Ah, it is you.

I believe you wanted to see me, my lady.


I believe you wanted to see me, my lady.

That is correct. Have the preparations for my arrival on Ethea been completed yet? I believe there is a certain nuisance remaining to be eliminated.


That is correct. Have the preparations for my arrival on Ethea been completed yet? I believe there is a certain nuisance remaining to be eliminated.

I have been awaiting your order to destroy the Gatekeeper, my lady.


I have been awaiting your order to destroy the Gatekeeper, my lady.

Hm, hm, I appreciate your obedience, but in this case I would have preferred if you did it as soon as the breach was opened.


Hm, hm, I appreciate your obedience, but in this case I would have preferred if you did it as soon as the breach was opened.

I assumed you would wait until you gathered further information on the Guardian of Water, my lady. Is he not...


I assumed you would wait until you gathered further information on the Guardian of Water, my lady. Is he not...


Yes. He is already there.

Will you please stop wasting everyone’s time and destroy that hideous thing at once? And... once you are done, come back to me.


Will you please stop wasting everyone’s time and destroy that hideous thing at once? And... once you are done, come back to me.


Yes. As you command, my lady.

Hahahaha! Look, it is Uria’s little pet! Isn’t she adorable?


Hahahaha! Look, it is Uria’s little pet! Isn’t she adorable?


You are obstructing the way. Get out.


As you wish.


Are you deceiving yourself?


Who are you?

I asked the question first. I was told Gatekeepers are not sentient creatures.


I asked the question first. I was told Gatekeepers are not sentient creatures.


You are mistaken. I am neither thing.


I am not human. Not anymore.

I was not destined by the Tree to inherit Darkness... but that’s irrelevant either way. I have transcended the definition of a ‘human’ and become something different.


I was not destined by the Tree to inherit Darkness... but that’s irrelevant either way. I have transcended the definition of a ‘human’ and become something different.


My... heart...?


Damn you, Zhangor. Damn you and your stinking lies.


Damn you, Zhangor. Damn you and your stinking lies.

Ahahahaha! Hey, hey! Did you have fun down there? Hahahahaha!


Ahahahaha! Hey, hey! Did you have fun down there? Hahahahaha!

Not really. There was only one Gatekeeper and I was prepared to perform many more soul bind spells tonight.


Not really. There was only one Gatekeeper and I was prepared to perform many more soul bind spells tonight.

That seems rather wasteful and improbable. Lord Zhangor said you needed Uria’s help to cast those.


That seems rather wasteful and improbable. Lord Zhangor said you needed Uria’s help to cast those.


Zhangor, you say?


Hahahahaha!

Ah, I see. Good to know it was he who sent you here, but I fear you have been misinformed about the power I wield. Regardless, I have to wonder: why here, in my domain?


Ah, I see. Good to know it was he who sent you here, but I fear you have been misinformed about the power I wield. Regardless, I have to wonder: why here, in my domain?

Lord Zhangor wanted us to keep you in check, naturally. There are various disturbing rumors running around surrounding your habits and plans, you see.


Lord Zhangor wanted us to keep you in check, naturally. There are various disturbing rumors running around surrounding your habits and plans, you see.

Some say you like inviting people to dine in your cell. They say... that you invite humans and demons... to eat their succulent flesh when you are... hungry! Hahahahaha!


Some say you like inviting people to dine in your cell. They say... that you invite humans and demons... to eat their succulent flesh when you are... hungry! Hahahahaha!

(monotone) Ha, ha, ha. I can see why some of you might believe such a thing. But trust me, I am not the one who revels in chaos, destruction, and depravity. Perhaps you should be watching him instead. Nonetheless...


(monotone) Ha, ha, ha. I can see why some of you might believe such a thing. But trust me, I am not the one who revels in chaos, destruction, and depravity. Perhaps you should be watching him instead. Nonetheless...

I absolutely <i>detest</i> your obnoxious laugh, girl.


I absolutely <i>detest</i> your obnoxious laugh, girl.


Lord Zhangor will hear of this.


Please, <i>do</i> send him my regards.

The Gatekeeper on Ethea is no more, my lady. The breach from Urvatha is now clear for you to cross.


The Gatekeeper on Ethea is no more, my lady. The breach from Urvatha is now clear for you to cross.

Hm, hm, I see. Well done, my Fire. Your success pleases me... greatly. Hm... I have a question for you.


Hm, hm, I see. Well done, my Fire. Your success pleases me... greatly. Hm... I have a question for you.


Yes, my lady?

Lord Zhangor informed me earlier of a... <i>revolt</i> organized by the stormkind witch. But from what he said I gather that the once-blessed faerie is directly involved as well. What do you know about this?


Lord Zhangor informed me earlier of a... <i>revolt</i> organized by the stormkind witch. But from what he said I gather that the once-blessed faerie is directly involved as well. What do you know about this?

The faerie was supposed to lead the Irdyan troops from the North but abandoned her duty on the surface before their arrival. She made it to the ruined training chamber and confronted me.


The faerie was supposed to lead the Irdyan troops from the North but abandoned her duty on the surface before their arrival. She made it to the ruined training chamber and confronted me.

Ah, hm, yes. Everyone had been looking forward to that confrontation ever since it was foretold by the Seer — it was an inevitability. Well, I assume you made her pay dearly for her meddling. Is she...


Ah, hm, yes. Everyone had been looking forward to that confrontation ever since it was foretold by the Seer — it was an inevitability. Well, I assume you made her pay dearly for her meddling. Is she...

No! I would not tolerate you wearing the scalp of that wretched creature anywhere near me; not to mention that some of your followers could get the wrong idea... Do you not think we have enough already with Ergea’s betrayal?


No! I would not tolerate you wearing the scalp of that wretched creature anywhere near me; not to mention that some of your followers could get the wrong idea... Do you not think we have enough already with Ergea’s betrayal?


My apologies, my lady.


Moving on...


Yes, my lady?

I have transferred Irdya’s control to Lord Zhangor. You are relieved from your duty as my Fire.


I have transferred Irdya’s control to Lord Zhangor. You are relieved from your duty as my Fire.


M— my lady?

I refuse to acknowledge your reaction as one of surprise, Elyssa. Did you truly think I would ask you to lend him the bulk of the Triad’s troops without an ulterior reason? This is all part of a plan that is now mostly irrelevant to you. Your duty now is to serve him just as you have served me all these years.


I refuse to acknowledge your reaction as one of surprise, Elyssa. Did you truly think I would ask you to lend him the bulk of the Triad’s troops without an ulterior reason? This is all part of a plan that is now mostly irrelevant to you. Your duty now is to serve him just as you have served me all these years.

But you promised that Irdya would be under my control soon... Zhangor would assist you on Ethea!


But you promised that Irdya would be under my control soon... Zhangor would assist you on Ethea!

You ought to watch your tone, girl — do not forget that I can end your life and destroy your soul at any time I please. If you want the ball of dirt you call Irdya, you will have to strike a bargain with your new lord. Do you understand?


You ought to watch your tone, girl — do not forget that I can end your life and destroy your soul at any time I please. If you want the ball of dirt you call Irdya, you will have to strike a bargain with your new lord. Do you understand?


I... understand, my lady.

Excellent then. Hm, hm, I am sure Zhangor will be as pleased as I to count on your assistance with exterminating the vermin brought by the faerie. We will meet again in the future, <i>perhaps</i>. Ha, ha, ha, ha!


Excellent then. Hm, hm, I am sure Zhangor will be as pleased as I to count on your assistance with exterminating the vermin brought by the faerie. We will meet again in the future, <i>perhaps</i>. Ha, ha, ha, ha!


What brings you here?

Do I really need a reason? Uria is busy unearthing some ruins on Urvatha — she will not notice my absence. I just wanted to see you.


Do I really need a reason? Uria is busy unearthing some ruins on Urvatha — she will not notice my absence. I just wanted to see you.

I have to admit that I expected a warmer reception.


I have to admit that I expected a warmer reception.

I suppose... it’s hard to be enthusiastic about a visit from someone who has only spoken to me through crystal projections for over a century. It almost feels as though we are strangers... meeting for the first time...