Conference in Valkaheim

Campaign: Chaos in the Capital

Chapter 14 / 4-11

Conference in Valkaheim

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A Paladyn's Past

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A Prince's Ambitions

Summary

In Valkaheim, Chelle and Leonidas discuss various topics, from Aurelius's last words and the threat of Agito, to disquieting activity from the Ilian Church. Having realized their youngest brother is facing dire straits, Leonidas implores Chelle to help him.

Dialogue

Valkaheim

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Throne Room
Have we still not ascertained Phares's location? I'm afraid not, Your Highness. Since he fled the capital, not a single one of our scouts has seen or heard anything. We have managed to track the movements of the seventh scion, however. He and his party appear to be making for the northern border, presumably to rescue the princess. He abandoned the capital to go after Zethia? Just what is he doing... The waters churn quite violently, hmm? Tch. Must you slither everywhere you go? Come now, brother dearest, don't be cruel. I'd heard you were injured quite severely. Are you well? ...It was hardly severe. Heh. Yes, you look as hale as can be. It does my heart well, but I must admit to some manner of disappointment. How excited I was to see my dear, dear brother weakened and wizened by injury! Enough. Speak your business and begone before my patience falters. Yes, yes, I shall get to my point. You've been keeping secrets, Brother. And I think it's time to share. Say, for example, something about the fifth scion? I know you colluded with our father to seal him away in the castle. OUR little brother, whom I have yet to see with my own eyes. ...I did not collude. I took over the watch after our father's death, yes—but it was purely out of necessity. The power of his black mana had only grown more terrible over time. Killing him was no longer an option. He had been a danger since birth; he entered this world swaddled in that most ebon of mana. Killing him then would have been the best course for Alberia. But Father did not do so. Instead, he locked him away in the deepest recesses of the palace. And now, Phares has freed him in hopes of harnessing the Other's power. Damn him... He has put all of Alberia—no, all of the WORLD—at impossible risk. A power so potent it can produce void dragons and consume the Other entirely... It is no wonder Phares would set his eyes upon it. I have been concerned about his activities for quite some time. As soon as I learn what he's planning, I shall send word. All of that said, however, I believe the north requires our more immediate attention. I presume you've heard tell of the group that has been terrorizing Alberia of late? They call themselves "Agito." I've received reports indicating they are invading from the northern border, which reminded me of something. Before Father passed away, he seemed terribly afraid of northern Grastaea. One need only look at where he positioned the two of us, so far north from the capital, as proof. Of course, I haven't the foggiest idea what he might have been afraid of. Perhaps you might know, Brother? I do not. However, he did broach a...curious subject with me before his passing. You are my eldest, Leonidas, and so I must tell you this in the event of my death. I shall not open my ears to such cowardly words from a king, even if that king is my father. It is precisely because I am king that I must tell you this. Now, listen well. If the time should come, you must do all in your power to protect the people of Alberia. They have believed in and supported the royal family, and you must never betray them. And, when the opportunity presents itself, go to Grams in northern Grastaea. Grams? Whyever for? I have nothing further for you now. Should you go at the proper time, you will find your answer. Remember this well. Grams is the city ruled by the Ilian Church. What could Father have been talking about...? Knowing you, you've no doubt sent your cats to sniff around already. Have you gleaned nothing? No, not yet. Though I have begun to wonder whether the answer may lie with that Nedrick fellow. ...Hmm. It appears the time for my visit draws near. Then you intend to make for Grams? Not yet. I shall remain here for the moment to maintain a watchful eye on both the capital and the north. With the Other excised, many eyes will doubtless wander toward the vacant throne. And Valyx, who maintained the peace, has left on an expedition. Mmm, indeed. And what of the Church? I am aware of their suspicious dealings. We must not show any sign of weakness, now more than ever. Hee hee. You've been paying close attention, I see. Well, this was an utterly delightful rendezvous, but it's time I took my leave. ...Wait. Oh? Is there something else? Or are you so reluctant to be parted from your sister? Spare me your mockery. I want you to protect Euden. My, my, what a curious development this is! Why would you ask this favor of me? He will be embroiled in tremendous hardship in the days ahead. Your support would be most welcome, I think. Besides, would it not behoove you to hold a debt over him? You speak true, and yet... Is it wise? After all, we still don't know his true identity. I know all that I require. He is a man who does not shy away from the truth—and he is my brother, besides. Eee hee hee! Hearing that alone was worth the trip! I will think on your request. And now, one last thing before I depart... If I'm not mistaken, there is still one member of our family who remains in the capital. I rather suspect we cannot count on him for much, but...you know. Food for thought. Ta ta! You mean that fool of a sibling...?