Across the Moor

Campaign: [[Campaign_Quests#Chapter_7:_{{{ChapterName}}}|{{{ChapterName}}}]]

Chapter 7 / 1-1

Across the Moor

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Diadem of Light

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The Narrow Road

Summary

New Alberia, still vulnerable in its infancy, is in dire need of allies. As such, the prince and his entourage find themselves slogging through the swamplands to Saint Lotier—also known as the Aquapolis—with a treaty in hand.

Dialogue

A new kingdom raises its standard at the south of Grastaea under Euden's rule. The birth of New Alberia deep in the heart of the Dyrenell Empire sends a shockwave across South Grastaea, reverberating through the leadership of the imperial forces.

In the North

—Chanzalia—

New Alberia? So someone has rebelled against the empire, mmm?

"Thirdborn Heir to Former Alberia"

"The Inferno: Chelle"

Not that it matters. If they're fool enough to attack us, we'll give a fine welcome. Now, how go preparations for the party? A-all according to schedule, Princess Chelle!

In the North

—Valkaheim—

And so Aurelius's brilliant star falls as a new and dark star rises—as well as another dim light at the periphery.

"Firstborn Heir to Former Alberia"

"The World Ruler: Leonidas"

But the flames of battle will not reach Valkaheim. Should any fool approach, it is they who will be reduced to ash.

The massive city strongholds of the prince's siblings lie north of New Alberia. And to the south...

Dyrenell Imperial Capital

—Formerly Sol Alberia—

You would plant your flag in the middle of my empire, Brother? How very amusing.

"Dyrenell's New Empress"

"Auspex of the Nether: Empress Zethia"

Yet they remain hopelessly outnumbered. What are your thoughts, Valyx? Do not underestimate him. His men fought my undefeated army to deadlock.

"Fourthborn Heir to Former Alberia"

"The Unbending: Valyx"

If you would stop him, be swift and decisive. Send a large force north before they become a real threat. Then send me, Brother! Let me be the one to lead that force!

"Sixthborn Heir to Former Alberia"

"Pride's Pinnacle: Emile"

This time, I WILL crush him beneath my bootheel! ...Er, or the bootheels of my men, I suppose. Ever one to keep your own footwear pristine, Prince Emile.

"Chief of the Capital Guard"

"The Black Raven: Harle"

But the rebel prince IS dangerous. We ought nip that threat in the bud. Oh, let the boy have his moment. Besides, Euden has a curious way with dragons. That could prove quite useful. Then we watch and wait for now. If that's all the business before the council, I'll take my leave. I've a lot on my plate, after all. And one tasty morsel in particular... Heh heh.

Having founded our kingdom, we now march west to forge a new alliance. The Halidom is surrounded by the empire's strongholds, all of which are held by siblings whose motives remain maddeningly unclear. We'll never survive alone, but if any ally can tip the scales, it's Saint Lotier—one of the continent's largest metropolises.

—Western Marsh— We've been traveling quite some time. Saint Lotier won't be far now. I hear the leader of the Aquapolis is quite a fine man. He won't soon bend the knee to the empire. We've declared our independence, but we still lack for manpower and resources. An alliance is our only hope. Ah, Saint Lotier... A nostalgic name. And the deep blue sea—my beloved cradle. If we are able to coax the sea's mana back to the Halidom, I should be able to erect a water dracolith. If you offer prayers to it, my powers will grow to new heights. So we just have to build one of those back at the castle and the Waterwyrm gets powered up? Sounds like we REALLY need to hit it off well with the boss around here. Additionally, I swore to Mercury that I would help defend the seas. Quick aside here: Are you sure it's a good idea for you to leave the castle, Euden? Aw, we left a solid force behind to watch over the place. They'll be fine. ...Though if ya wanna give up on this optimistic plan for an alliance and head home, I'd be all for it. Turn back? That's unlike you, Ranzal. Is it your courage that has abandoned you, or your faith in Euden? It's neither and ya know it! Just... I got a bad feeling about this, yeah? This ain't the place for stupid arguments, though. The marsh is dangerous. Dally too long, and we'll have water fiends swimmin' up to greet us. Water fiends, huh? ...Oh, hey, you're right! I can hear them splashing around. They lurk under the surface or in stands of tall reeds, then attack. They are a most troubling set of foes. Then let's hurry. Once we're through this stretch, we should be at the Aquapolis's doorstep.