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<img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
You wake at first light and quickly dress into your military uniform. You've recently been promoted to Cadet after years of hard work and dedication. You pin the Order of Recognition proudly on your shoulder and step out of the dormitories. It's your first day on new assignment and you cannot be late. You step out into the sunlit courtyard.
To the left of the dormitories is the Tactical Wing, which houses all the classrooms of recruit, trainee, and cadet alike. Here students learn everything from military tactics and ethics, to law and foreign relations.
To the right of the dormitories is a well-worn path leading to the Training Grounds, where students can put what they've learned in the classroom to the test.
[[Make your way to the tactical wing.|Tactical Wing]]
[[Make your way to the training grounds.|Training Grounds]]
<img src="images/training.jpg" />
You can hear the sound of blunted swords clanging as you approach the sun-baked dirt of the training grounds. You recall your days as a recruit, the fear and adrenaline you felt imagining yourself on the battlefield.
You hear a group of trainees near the straw dummies. You catch a few words of their disagreement, something about "optimal formations".
[[Help settle the matter.|Formations]]
[[Ignore them and look for your commander.|Erhart]]<img src="images/strategy.jpg" />
Your boots echo in the stone hallway as you head into the Tactical Wing of the Military Academy. The main hall leads to the classrooms, broken down by rank. Briefly, you remember the first time you stepped into these halls; how cold and imposing this whole place felt then and how excited you were despite this.
You step into class B4, to find a group of 4th-rank trainees butting heads over a map of Nerei, your home country.
[[Help settle the matter.|Map]]
[[Ignore them and find your commander.|Erhart]]
<img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
You walk away from the trainees and return to the courtyard, hoping to run into Commander Gunnar.
He is nowhere to be seen.
Suddenly, a tall lanky man about your age emerges from a group of students and heads towards you. He is very pale, with sandy blond hair and light brown eyes. He's wearing the navy colors of the Nerei Cadets.
"A fellow Cadet," he says as he comes to a stop before you. "What's your name?"
<<textbox "$name" $name>> \
<<button "Confirm">>
<<set $name to $name.trim()>>
<<if $name is "">>
<<replace "#name-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>>
<<else>>
<<goto [[The PC]]>>
<</if>>
<</button>> \
<span id="name-error"></span><img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
"I thought so. I'm Erhart. A pleasure to finally meet you," the young man says. "Commander Gunnar asked me to collect you. He wants to see you in his office. Come along. We mustn't keep him waiting."
Together you quickly make your way to the Administrative building in the north side of campus.
"I've heard a lot about you, $name. The Commander talks about you all the time." Erhart smiles over to you and notices the pin of recognition on your arm. "That's an accomplishment! They only give those to the best of the best. You've been here a long time haven't you? What brought you here?"
There's something about Erhart's deep, soothing voice and calm attitude that immediately wins you over.
[[The Enduring War, what else? My family thought it'd be safer to send me here than to be out there, near the fighting.|The War]]
[[It's been a long time, I don't quite remember. My parents died in the 12-Year's War, and I ended up here...|Orphan]]
[[I chose to come here. It was either this, or wait until I was married off to some stranger.|Noble]]
[[My family... we didn't have a lot. They gave up everything so I could come here. |Family]]
<img src="images/training.jpg" />
As you greet the group of trainees, they quickly salute you as their superior and explain their conundrum. One argues that on an open field, the best option is to let the enemy come to you as you wait in a wedge formation.
"Deliver the first strike and you have the upper hand from the start!" another trainee vehemently retorts. "You must feint quickly right to strike from two sides and disperse the enemy."
[[I would choose one over the other myself, however...|The Enemy]]
[[Did you learn nothing in last week's class? Listen to me...|The Enemy]]
<img src="images/training.jpg" />
"Who is your enemy?" you ask them. The young trainees look at one and other, considering.
"A formation is only useful if you know who you are fighting. Are they foot soldiers? The finest cavalry from Mercina? Or worse, what if they're pikemen from the Kingdom of Erenne, infamous for their brutality. All of this is critical information you should have before making formation calls."
It takes a moment, but hey all nod at one another and thank you for the reminder. As you begin to walk away, the conversation quickly devolves into an argument about what kind of weapon is most effective.
[[You resist the urge to smirk at their bickering and turn to look for the Commander.|Erhart]]
<img src="images/strategy.jpg" />
You walk over to the group and look down at the map of Nerei. You see the Military Academy painted in blue in southern Nerei. Your country shares a border with Erenne to the east, and to the west, the southern tip of Mercina.
They salute you as their superior and pose their argument.
"Cadet, perhaps you can settle this... please make my dear friend see how wrong he is," a boy in his late teens speaks first. "He claims the safety of Nerei is secured because our back is to the sea without a port of entry."
"It's true!" another trainee responds defensively, "We're surrounded by sheer cliffs. Even in the off chance the enemy had scaling gear, our patrol could easily cut their ropes and throw them back into the sea."
[[You're not wrong, but you forget yourself, trainee...|The Enemy 2]]
[[Have you forgotten your lessons, trainee?|The Enemy 2]]
<img src="images/strategy.jpg" />
"Knowing who you face on the battlefield is of paramount importance," you remind them. "You seem focused on foreign invaders. What about being invaded from within the nation itself?"
The students look at you, realization in their eyes.
"You have Mercina to the west, a large mercantile nation with great influence, and Erenne to the east, the most militant nation on this continent." You point to the two countries bordering Nerei.
"And here we are, wedged between them in the south. That puts us in quite a precarious position, don't you think?"
The trainees nod in agreement and thank you for the important reminder. As you walk away you hear their conversation turn sour again, and they begin arguing over the best method to cut off enemy supply lines.
[[You smile and shake your head as you look for the Commander.|Erhart]]
<img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
Erhart nods sympathetically. "That must have been hard for them," he says. "But with Mercina and Erenne's skirmishes getting closer and closer to our borders... They did the right thing. We are safest here on neutral ground."
You walk up a flight of stairs together and pull open the huge oak double-doors of the Administrative Building.
"I come from a long line of farmers, pig farmers to be exact!" Erhart shares without a hint of irony. "I was always fascinated by the animals we raised. I took care of them, wanted to heal them when they were sick. But I realized at a young age that there were humans dying every day. The war has been raging for so long... I wanted to help save people, if I could."
[[So you're a medic? That's a worthy pursuit.|Medic]]
[[In war, medics are very important.|Medic 2]]
[[So you want to save lives... by studying at a military academy?|Medic 3]]
<img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
Erhart looks embarassed. "Forgive me, $name. That was rude of me..." he says quietly, "So many people have lost their lives. A lot of students here have no families... It's a wonderful thing that Nerei takes war orphans from all principalities caught up in the war. At least here on neutral land, we are safe."
You walk up a flight of stairs together and pull open the huge oak double-doors of the Administrative Building.
"I come from a long line of farmers, pig farmers to be exact!" His tone reverts to its normal, even self. "I was always fascinated by the animals we raised. I took care of them, wanted to heal them when they were sick. But I realized at a young age what the war was costing. It has been raging for so long... I wanted to help save people, if I could."
[[So you're a medic? That's a worthy pursuit.|Medic]]
[[In war, medics are very important.|Medic 2]]
[[So you want to save lives... by studying at a military academy?|Medic 3]]<img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
Erhart looks over, surprised. "Ah, you must come from one of Nerei's noble families then. I should have known you come from good stock just by looking at you..." he says, "Mercina and Erenne's skirmishes are getting closer and closer to our borders... even families with their own guards don't feel safe."
You walk up a flight of stairs together and pull open the huge oak double-doors of the Administrative Building.
"I come from a long line of farmers, pig farmers to be exact!" Erhart shares without a hint of irony. "I was always fascinated by the animals we raised. I took care of them, wanted to heal them when they were sick. But I realized at a young age that there were humans dying every day. The war has been raging for so long... I wanted to help save people, if I could."
[[So you're a medic? That's a worthy pursuit.|Medic]]
[[In war, medics are very important.|Medic 2]]
[[Hah. So you want to save lives... by studying at a military academy?|Medic 3]]<img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
Erhart nods sympathetically. "That must have been hard for them," he says. "But with Mercina and Erenne's skirmishes getting closer and closer to our borders... They did the right thing. We are safest here. And they must really love you, for them to sacrifice so much."
You walk up a flight of stairs together and pull open the huge oak double-doors of the Administrative Building.
"I come from a long line of farmers, pig farmers to be exact!" Erhart shares without a hint of irony. "I was always fascinated by the animals we raised. I took care of them, wanted to heal them when they were sick. But I realized at a young age that there were humans dying every day. The war has been raging for so long... I wanted to help save people, if I could."
[[So you're a medic? That's a worthy pursuit.|Medic]]
[[In war, medics are very important.|Medic 2]]
[[So you want to save lives... by studying at a military academy?|Medic 3]]<img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
"I know some people think it's foolish. To be trained to save people at a military academy." Erhart smiles, a little sad now. "But I guess I wanted to learn about war so that I'm not just another cog in its wheel. I want to help people effected by war make a new life for themselves."
He looks over at you and his pale face reddens a little. "And I want to be a voice for peace... even to those convinced we'll never achieve it."
You both stop outside Commander Gunnar's office and you look over at him.
[[I agree with you... I want peace too.|Gunnar 1]]
[[Peace is not yet within our grasp, but I believe we can get there.|Gunnar 1]]
[[We won't have peace until one side is destroyed.|Gunnar 2]]
<img src="images/office.jpg" />
For a few seconds Erhart only looks at you as if deciding if you are playing a trick on him. When he sees the sincerity in your eyes, he smiles and nods.
You step into the office to the strong smell of old parchment and incense. Commander Gunnar likes to burn it while he reads late into the night. The middle-aged man looks up from his papers and stands from the great oak desk when he sees you.
He has salt-and-pepper, short cropped hair and a square jaw that gives him a stern appearance. However, the brown eyes behind his glasses have an undeniable warmth to them. Despite his age, Commander Gunnar strikes an imposing, well-built figure. There are several scars on his face and his left hand is mottled from an old wound that did not heal well. He is a veteran of the Enduring War and the man who has taught you since you first came to the Academy.
"$name, come in," he says with the smallest of grins. He is not a man of smiles, but he reserves them for a select few. Though you will never admit it, you know you are his favorite student. "Erhart, sorry to bother you with this task. I had... an urgent matter to attend to."
For the first time you notice that his forhead is lined with worry.
"Not a problem, Commander," Erhart replies with a polite nod.
[[Something's amiss. What is it, Commander?|Trouble]]
[[We were meant to start my new assignment this morning, Commander. You said first thing in the morning.|Trouble 2]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
Erhart makes a move for the door, but Commander Gunnar raises a hand to stop him. "No, Erhart. Please stay. Sit, both of you."
You walk over to the wood chairs that sit before the Commander. "There no cause for alarm yet... but our border guard sent word of suspicious activity near Reinier Castle."
"Reiner?" Erhart murmurs. "I'm not sure I'm familiar."
Commander Gunnar nods. "Most aren't. It's tiny. Hardly a castle at all. By it's the closest territory to the Kingdom of Erenne, so we patrol the area heavily."
Beside you Erhart fidgets uncomfortably. "Erenne. I thought they were focusing their fight to the north. The last reports said their troops were moving towards Almeida."
You hear Commander grunt at this, his way of laughing. "Apparently some outlaws used it as a home base for years... Almeida is nothing but a ruin now. They took it anyway, without resistence. But that doesn't mean they can't be making a move in the south as well."
You took note of Commander Gunnar's words ("there's no cause for alarm yet"), but the tone of his voice said otherwise.
[[I knew it. The Kingdom of Erenne is at our doorstep.|Erenne]]
[[I knew one day those dogs would attack.|Erenne]]
<img src="images/office.jpg" />
"They haven't attacked yet," Commander Gunnar reassures you both. "There may still be time to avoid this."
He takes off his glasses and looks down at a folded letter. You recognize the seal on the outside, the coat of arms of the Erennian royal family.
"King Urgos wishes an audience. He wants Nerei to join the fight against the Kingdom of Mercina. As the Commander of Nerei's army, I must attend this meeting and do what I can to avoid our nation getting dragged into this conflict..."
"Urgos Ironfist..." Erhart speaks up from the silence that fell.
"A silly name." Commander scolds, causing Erhart to blush slightly.
"Apologies, Commander. But they do call him that for a reason. They say he imprisons by the thousands... entire families, even those of noble blood who dare defy him."
Commander Gunnar stands and moves away from the desk. "We have yet to confirm the veracity of these claims," he responds, unconvincingly.
[[This is not an audience, it's a trap. Commander, you mustn't fall for it.|Trap]]
[[Send someone elese, Commander. You must not go.|Trap 2]]
<img src="images/office.jpg" />
"Prince Ermine said the same thing." Commander Gunnar responds, leveling his gaze at you. "'We are independent nation', he said, 'they cannot force us into their squabble with threats of invasion'." He shakes his head and averts his gaze.
"I convinced him to allow me to attend in his stead. I will be his representative. This way at least we can hope to avoid a true affront to King Urgos." he takes a deep breath, gathering himself. "I must speak to him myself... come to some form of agreement."
You look over at Erhart who has fallen silent in contemplation. Both of you seem to be thinking the same thing.
[[We have allies who would aid us though, if it came to that.|Allies]]
[[What of Mercina? What's their role in this?|Mercina]]
[[We should be preparing for war, then. It will surely come to that!|Prepare]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
"Yes, in a fashion..." Commander Gunnar responds after a moment of hesistation. "Nerei and the rest of the Principalities signed a loose agreement half a century ago. No one has seen the document in years, however. We know not what the terms are..."
Erhart's eyes dart from you to the commander. "That's something at least..." he says half to himself. "We've managed to stay out of this war for a reason. We have an agreement with Mercina."
Commander Gunnar does not smile, but his eyes fill with what appears to be pride at both you and Erhart's knowledge.
"You're right," comes his response. "The Accord ensures we'll never be invaded by Mercina. But they are not bound by it to help defend our borders. They have their own troubles to contend with."
[[Sitting on our hands would be foolish... we need to have a plan!|In Place]]
[[We should plan for the worst. We are too vulnerable otherwise.|In Place]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
"The Accord ensures we'll never be invaded by Mercina." the commander responds. "But there's nothing in it about helping defend our borders from Erenne."
Erhart's eyes dart from you to the commander. "That's something at least..." he says half to himself. "$name is right... we will need allies. What about the rest of the region to the north of us?"
Commander Gunnar does not smile, but his eyes fill with what appears to be pride at both you and Erhart's knowledge.
"Yes..." Commander Gunnar responds after a moment of hesistation. "Nerei and the rest of the Principalities signed a loose agreement half a century ago. But its terms are uncertain. More uncertain still is whether the Principalities could ever come to an agreement over anything."
[[Sitting on our hands would be foolish... we need to have a plan!|In Place]]
[[We should plan for the worst. We are too vulnerable otherwise.|In Place]]
<img src="images/office.jpg" />
Commander Gunnar's expression darkens at your outburst. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. "$name, we must be prudent at this time. For the sake of everyone, we cannot go into a panic."
You sigh deeply, containing your anger. Besides you, Erhart shifts uncomfortably. "What about the Kingdom of Mercina? We signed the Accord with them as well."
"You're right," Commander Gunnar responds. "The Accord ensures we'll never be invaded by Mercina. But it's not a true alliance and they are not bound to help us defend Nerei. They've been fighting King Urgos for years. They have their own borders to protect."
[[Sitting on our hands would be foolish... we need to have a plan!|In Place]]
[[We should plan for the worst. We are too vulnerable otherwise.|In Place]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
Commander Gunnar returns to his desk and sits. "I'm sending a letter to the northern Principalities as well as the Queen of Mercina. After I return from my meeting with Urgos, we'll have a better idea how we need to proceed."
"How long do you expect to be gone, Commander?" Erhart asks.
"No more than 3 days. Lieutenant Carlyle is on assignment and is due to return in a day or two. Until then, $name, I'm putting you in charge of 1st and 2nd battalion."
[[In charge of the 1st and 2nd? But, Commander are you sure...|Sure]]
[[If you are sure... I accept, Commander.|Cocky]]
[[I knew this day would come. I accept.|Cocky]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
Commander gives you a smile. "Of course I'm sure, $name. I trust you'll do great. The 1st Batallion trusts you, and I've observed you with the 2nd. There are a few trainees who are afraid of you, but I'm sure they'll overcome that."
You feel Erhart's eyes on you and you flush, equal parts embarassed and grateful. You nod at the Commander and the three of you stand.
[[I'd rather come with you, but I trust you will take care...|Farewell]]
[[You can count on me, Commander. Take care of yourself.|Farewell]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
"Good," Commander Erhart replies sternly, but with a slight smirk. "Now don't make me regret my decision. The 1st battalion trusts you, but the 2nd still needs work and I need you at your best, $name."
You nod, sobered by his words. The three of you stand and head for the door.
[[I should be going with you instead of staying here...|Farewell]]
[[You can count on me, Commander. Take care of yourself.|Farewell]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
"Don't worry about me," he says, and places a hand on your back to lead you out into the hallway. "Focus on your charges, and don't make me regret putting you in charge."
You and Erhart salute Commander Gunnar outside the Administrative Building. He gives you a brief nod and the faintest of smiles before he turns and walks towards the Academy entrance. It appears he doesn’t want to lose any time.
The pair of you say nothing for a long while, both lost in your thoughts about what the meeting with King Urgos may hold. Finally, the silence is broken by your companion. “There’s no use worrying ourselves about it now, $name,” Erhart says. His voice is calm and reassuring. “Besides, we have training to do.”
You give him a sidelong glance as students bustle by you on their way to their assignments.
[[Just because you’re a fellow Cadet doesn’t mean I’ll go easy on you.|Joking]]
[[You’re right… let’s see if you’re as good with a sword as you are with words.|Joking]]
<img src="images/training.jpg" />
Erhart laughs heartily at this and the two of you make your way to the training grounds where Class B-2 of the 2nd Batallion awaits. Your day ahead is filled with drills, exercises, and lectures. With the exception of two or three recruits who need a firmer hand, your instruction goes without a hitch.
Erhart stays close to you for the remainder of the day, and you are grateful for his assistance. Having hundreds of students under your charge is no easy task. You have no time to think about anything else.
By sunset you are exhausted and can barely keep your eyes open. The mess hall is chaotic around you, with students joking and insulting one another, and eating ravenously after a taxing day. You remember your days as a young recruit, how bright-eyed and naïve you were. Commander Gunnar and the rest of the Senior Instructors helped open your eyes.
Despite the constant noise and long days, you feel at home here.
[[With a tired smile you rise from the tressle table and head to bed.|The next night]]
<img src="images/bedroom.jpg" />
The following night, an urgent rapping at your door wakes you. You are still in a fog of sleep as you awkwardly get to your feet, throw on your military trousers, and stumble to the door.
When you crack the wood door open, Erhart rushes in with a hurried apology.
“$name, dress quickly! I don’t have a lot of time to explain.” He is breathing heavily and his eyes have a wild look about them. Over the last two days you’ve spent almost every waking moment with Erhart, and you’ve become fast friends. You’ve gotten used to the perpetual air of calm that he radiates.
As he stands before the moonlit window now, you see that his entire body is shaking. The trembling in his voice frightens you.
[[What’s going on? Erhart, tell me!|Hostage]]
<img src="images/bedroom.jpg" />
“The Commander... he’s been taken hostage by the Kingdom of Erenne.”
Erhart’s words hit you like a wave. You hear him saying more, but he sounds far away. Your mind is racing a mile a minute and you feel nausea creeping up. Erhart puts a hand on your shoulder and you’re brought back to your senses. You realize you’re now sitting on your bed with your hands over your face, and have no recollection of getting there.
“I know this is a shock, $name,” Erhart murmurs, “But we have to move quickly. Lieutenant Carlyle was also taken captive two days ride from the Academy. Urgos’s knights are surely on their way here.” You search Erhart’s face for meaning.
“We have to escape!” he cries, trying to snap you out of your daze. “If we stay here, we’ll all be taken!”
At last, you find your voice.
[[Escape… but where?! North? Or to Mercina?|Escape]]
[[I can’t… I can’t just abandon my post.|Duty]]
[[No, I will not run! Let them come!|Duty]]
<img src="images/bedroom.jpg" />
“$name, please! I know how you feel about abandoning our post, but there is more at stake here than duty!”
You feel a wave of anger rush through you, but you swallow it and calm yourself. “If they’ve taken our Commander, their next target is us.”
Erhart nods, agreeing. But your mind is still racing. There’s so much to consider, and no time.
[[We need to find the Headmaster before we retreat.|Headmaster]]
[[Let’s gather the Cadets. We’ll discuss together how to proceed.|Cadets]]
<img src="images/bedroom.jpg" />
“I-I… I haven’t really thought that far...” Erhart admits. “Anywhere away from here! If they’ve taken our Commander, they’re coming here next.”
You nod, agreeing. But your mind is still racing. There’s so much to consider, and no time.
[[We need to find the Headmaster before we retreat.|Headmaster]]
[[Let’s gather the Cadets. We’ll discuss together how to proceed.|Cadets]]
<img src="images/headmaster.png" />
“The Headmaster?” Erhart asks, considering. “Y-Yes… he may know the fastest route… He is 2nd Lieutenant after all. Even if it is only a title. Come, let us not waste another moment!”
You put on your uniform and grab your scabbard in a haze. The two of your rush out into the hall to see a dozen Cadets milling about, confused and trying to make sense of the situation. Briefly you wonder how they’ve heard the news. Did Erhart wake them all? How did Erhart learn of the Commander’s capture?
You can’t think of that now. You ignore the students calling your name, their anxious questions, and rush out into the night.
The Administrative building is in a state of panic when you walk through the double doors. The instructors ignore you completely, focused on their own squabbling. Something is wrong. When you reach the Headmaster’s office, you find his door open and three senior instructors arguing, their faces lined with shock and worry.
“Where is the Headmaster?!” you demand. The three of them look at one and other, not daring to speak.
“Gone…” Erhart whispers with realization. You look over at him, your panic rising. He’s right.
Finally, Instructor Cress steels himself and speaks. “When we learned of the Commander’s arrest, the Headmaster seemed calm. We were all sure he had a plan. But when we all assembled to discuss our plan of action, he could not be found."
[[Gone… all for the better. We don’t need a weakling’s guidance anyway.|Some comfort]]
[[...Now is not the time to panic. We’ll make it through this.|Some comfort]]
<img src="images/darkcafeteria.png" />
You need to discuss with your cohorts how to proceed. Erhart nods. “The quicker we can come to a conensus, the faster we can retreat." he says, turning towards the door.
You put on your uniform and grab your scabbard in a daze. The two of your rush out into the hall to see a dozen Cadets milling about, confused and trying to make sense of the situation. Briefly you wonder how they’ve heard the news. Did Erhart wake them all? How did Erhart learn of the Commander’s capture?
You can’t think of that now. "We must gather the Cadets immediately." With uncertainty, those around you agree and begin waking the rest of the 1st Battalion.
[[You come together in the empty Mess Hall.|Mess Hall]] <img src="images/headmaster.png" />
The three instructors exchange a look in silence, but they seem grateful for your words. Perhaps you’ve given voice to their own feelings on the Headmaster’s abandonment.
“We were just discussing our next move. We have not received word on the Prince or his family,” Cress tells you.
“They may already be dead. The capital is not far from Erenne’s border,” another one of the Instructors replies in a quavering voice. They all look at her, not wanting to believe.
“We can’t wait around for orders… we must act!” Erhart insists. Silence follows this. “Without the Commander or either of our Lieutenants, I suppose it falls on the Senior Instructions to lead the retreat.”
You weigh your options.
On one hand, Commander Gunnar left you in charge of the entire Cadet and Trainee Battalions. You could lead the retreat... After all, the Commander put his faith in you. But on the other hand, you have no experience on a real battlefield, and the Senior Instructors have seen their fair share, despite their age.
[[Remind the Senior Instructors that Commander Gunnar left orders.|Take Charge]]
[[Defer to the Senior Instructors and follow their lead.|Fall Back]]
<img src="images/headmaster.png" />
You remind the Senior Instructors that you were left in charge of the 1st and 2nd Battalion.
"Yes..." Cress replies with a nod. "He did submit that paperwork before departing." The three instructors look at one another and seem to come to a silent agreement. "Right then, we'll gather the Recruits. $name, you'll lead the the Trainees and Cadets."
You exhale quietly, and walk outside to wait for everyone to gather. At last the courtyard is filled with sleepy-eyed, confused students. You stand at the top of the Administrative Building steps, with Erhart and the Senior Instructors behind you. A sea of eyes turn to you, and you feel your heart thundering in your chest.
[[We need to go to Mercina and ask for their support.|Mercina's Support]]
[[We head to the Northern Principalities to seek refuge.|Principalities]]
<img src="images/darkcourtyard.jpg" />
"I agree. The Senior Instructors should give the orders," you say. The three of them look uncertain, but Cress finally nods. "We need to inform the rest of the Instructors and have them gather the Battalions. We'll leave immediately."
Fifteen minutes later you walk down to the courtyard where the entire Academy stands bleary-eyed and confused. There is fear and tension in the air. Already several fights have broken out, one between the Senior Instructors themselves.
Up on the Administrative Building steps, you see Instructor Cress red-faced and shouting orders. Around him, none seem to be in agreement.
Eventually it quiets down enough for them to give the marching orders. You are heading due west, directly towards the border with Mercina.
It's hard to believe that just an hour ago you were peacefully asleep in your bed.
[[A cold chill runs through you as you begin the uncertain march.|March to Mercina]]<img src="images/darkcafeteria.png" />
One of the older Cadets, Julien, joins you and Erhart at the center of the room.
"It's true, then... the Commander has been taken captive," he states. Erhart confirms this and silence falls. "There's only one option." Julien continues, his eyes blazing with anger. "We have to save the Commander."
The classroom erupts with cries of agreement. Erhart looks to you and silently questions how you will proceed.
[[Allow the Cadets to come to a concensus.|Save the Commander]]
[[Remind the Cadets you were appointed to lead the 1st and 2nd Battalion.|Take Charge 2]]<img src="images/darkcourtyard.jpg" />
"Alright, the Cadets should agree together," you say. Julien looks triumphant as he begins to plead his case. "There's only one place they could be holding Commander Gunnar-- The Spire," he states confidently.
"That prison is leagues from here, and heavily guarded." Erhart argues.
"We've trained for this kind of thing." Julien insists, looking around at others who nod eagerly. "We'll create a great diversion, and a small group will infiltrate the Spire."
Your protest, along with any other arguments, are quickly drowned down by the vocal majority. With dread you realize you are outvoted.
Fifteen minutes later you walk down to the courtyard where the entire Academy stands bleary-eyed and confused. There is fear and tension in the air. Already several fights have broken out, mostly between the Cadets and the Senior Instructors.
Up on the Administrative Building steps you see Instructor Cress red-faced and shouting at Julien and his supporters.
Eventually it quiets down enough for them to give the marching orders. You are heading due east, directly towards the border with Erenne.
It's hard to believe that just an hour ago you were peacefully asleep in your bed.
[[A cold chill runs through you as you begin the uncertain march. |March to Erenne]]<img src="images/darkcourtyard.jpg" />
You remind the Cadets that you were left in charge of the 1st and 2nd Battalion.
Julien looks displeased, but another older Cadet speaks up. "The Commander did submit that paperwork before departing." They look at each other and silently agree. "As much as we want to save the Commander, with our numbers that will only end in failure." Erhart says. You nod at your companion's input. "We need allies... we must join forces with our neighbors." you tell them.
"We'll help gather the recruits and trainees in the courtyard, $name."
You walk outside and wait for everyone to gather. At last the courtyard is filled with sleepy-eyed, confused students. You stand at the top of the Administrative Building steps, with Erhart and the Senior Instructors behind you.
[[We will travel to Mercina to ask for their aid.|Mercina's Support 2]]
[[We head north to the Principalities with the hope of uniting them.|United Principalities]]
<img src="images/eastforest.jpg" />
The crowd is not pleased with the decision that has been made and you feel the glue that's holding you all together is coming undone. But you must keep moving before it's too late.
The march out of the Academy, thankfully goes without incident.
Two days later, however, you awake to panic in your camp. Your group that once neared 5,000 strong has splintered.
"Most of the Cadets have abandonded us, and they've taken many of our provisions." Erhart informs you. He is calm, but you see that his eyes have taken a dull look to them. They are the same eyes you see in trainee and Instructor alike. The panic has been replaced with resignation. You wonder if you're going to make it out of Nerei.
Three days later, with supplies running low and rain beating down on you, the march slows down to a snail's pace. Ahead of you, two recruits have fallen to their knees in exhaustion.
[[We must keep going, do not lose heart! Mercina is not far.|Discord 3]]
[[Are you soldiers, or weaklings?! Keep moving!!|Discord 4]]
<img src="images/darkcourtyard.jpg" />
“The Kingdom of Erenne has moved against us. By taking Commander Gunnar hostage, they have committed an act of war. Our neighbor to the west will give us asylum until we can fight back against this injustice.” You tell the crowd gathered before you. The news ripples across them, but there is silence.
“We signed an Accord years ago with the Kingdom of Mercina... it's time for Queen Celeste to honor it.”
You can sense the doubt in the air, but your confidence and control of the situation seems to hearten the students. You gather your fellow Cadets and give orders to a dozen of them to help guide the different classes during the march.
The Head Instructors do their part by calming the youngest of the recruits, and stay close to the 3rd Battalion as the steady flow of bodies begin to exit the gates and head west.
It’s hard to believe that an hour ago you were asleep, and now you’re leading a midnight flight from the place you called home.
[[With the bare necessities gathered, and the provisions secured, you press on.|Discord]]<img src="images/darkcourtyard.jpg" />
“The Kingdom of Erenne has moved against us. By taking Commander Gunnar hostage, they have committed an act of war. Our neighbors to the north will give us asylum until we can fight back against this injustice,” you tell the crowd gathered before you.
“Years ago, the Northern Principalities signed an agreement. Together we make a sizable force. The road there is shorter than Mercina, and if we warn them of King Urgos's actions, they WILL join us.”
You can sense the doubt in the air, but your confidence and control of the situation seems to hearten the students. You gather your fellow Cadets and give orders to a dozen of them to help guide the different classes during the march.
The Head Instructors do their part by calming the youngest of the recruits, and stay close to the 3rd Battalion as the steady flow of bodies begin to exit the gates and head north.
It’s hard to believe that an hour ago you were asleep, and now you’re leading a midnight flight from the place you called home.
[[With the bare necessities gathered and the provisions secured, you press on.|Discord 2]]<img src="images/grasslands.jpg" />
The majority of the Instructors are not pleased with the decision that has been made and you feel the glue that's holding you all together is coming undone. But you must keep moving before it's too late.
The march out of the Academy thankfully goes without incident, but from the onset the road is not easy. The further east you travel the hotter and dryer the landscape becomes.
Two days later, you awake to panic in your camp. Your group that once neared 5,000 strong has splintered.
"Most of the Instructors have abandonded us, and they've taken many of our provisions." Erhart informs you. He is calm, but you see that his eyes have taken a dull look to them. They are the same eyes you see in trainee and Instructor alike. The panic has been replaced with resignation.
[[You wonder if you're going to make it out of Nerei.|On the road 10]]
<img src="images/darkcourtyard.jpg" />
“The Kingdom of Erenne has moved against us. By taking our Commander Gunnar hostage, they have committed an act of war. Our neighbor to the east will give us asylum until we can fight back against this injustice.” You tell the crowd gathered before you. “We signed an Accord years ago with the Kingdom of Mercina and Queen Celeste has honored it to this day.”
You can sense the doubt in the air, but your confidence and control of the situation seems to hearten the students. You gather your fellow Cadets and give orders to a dozen of them to help guide the different classes during the march.
The Head Instructors do their part by calming the youngest of the recruits, and stay close to the 3rd Battalion as the steady flow of bodies begin to exit the gates and head east.
It’s hard to believe that hours ago you were asleep, and now you’re leading a midnight flight from the place you called home.
[[With the bare necessities gathered, and the provisions secured, you press on.|Discord]]<img src="images/darkcourtyard.jpg" />
“The Kingdom of Erenne has moved against us. By taking our Commander Gunnar hostage, they have committed an act of war. Our neighbor to the north will give us asylum until we can fight back against this injustice.” You tell the crowd gathered before you. “Years ago, the Northern Principalities signed an agreement. Together we make a sizable force. If we can warn them of Erenne's actions, they will join us.”
You can sense the doubt in the air, but your confidence and control of the situation seems to hearten the students. You gather your fellow Cadets and give orders to a dozen of them to help guide the different classes during the march.
The Head Instructors do their part by calming the youngest of the recruits, and stay close to the 3rd Battalion as the steady flow of bodies begin to exit the gates and head north.
It’s hard to believe that hours ago you were asleep, and now you’re leading a midnight flight from the place you called home.
[[With the bare necessities gathered, and the provisions secured, you press on.|Discord 2]]<img src="images/eastforest.jpg" />
Two days later at dawn, you've made it to Bracken Forest. The area is thick with tall, thin trees that make movement difficult. But you hope that this will also slow down your pursuers. As everyone is gathering their traveling gear to continue the march, you hear a commotion.
You move through the trees, down to the middle of camp and see that a group has gathered around one Cadet. It’s Julien, an older member of the 1st Battalion. His blonde hair shakes with his anger and his green eyes are blazing. The faces around him look tired, but you see the same anger burning there too.
“What are we doing?! Running? I have family not far from here. Am I to just leave them behind?!” You feel the intensity of his words stirring up the crowd. “We need to defend our home! Not run like cowards!"
Erhart steps forward from the crowd and raises a calming hand towards Julien. “Julien, please. Calm yourself.” The other Cadet rounds on him, knocks him to the ground and begins to pummel him.
You take a hurried step forward.
[[He’s beyond reason, detain him.|Harsh]]
[[Try to reason with him.|Forgiving]]
<img src="images/eastforest.jpg" />
“I agree with you, Julien.” You move forward slowly, speaking steadily. “I want to defend Nerei too.”
Julien stops his assault on Erhart and turns to you slowly, the rage still radiating from him. “But we can’t win alone. Erenne is too big, their military too powerful. We need help. We need Mercina.”
You are deeply grateful for those around you who murmur words of agreement. "We lose here, we lose everything. I want to fight for our people. If we make it out of here safely, we will get that chance."
Julien seems to come to his senses, looking down at Erhart with shame. He helps his fellow Cadet up from the forest floor and you breathe a sigh of relief.
[[You lock eyes with Julien, who nods at you curtly and walks away.|On the Road]]
<img src="images/eastforest.jpg" />
“Enough!" Your voice is like a bullwhip that brings everything to a halt. "Cadets, detain Julien so he cannot harm anyone else. Bind him and put him on one of the supply carts.”
Two Cadets nearby look at you uncertainly, but follow your orders. "You can't do this, $name! You can't make this choice for all of us!" They take Julien away from the shaken crowd.
Erhart stands and wipes the blood from his lips. “The only way to win back our homes is with allies!” Your voice rings out. “We keep moving.” The crowd disperses, giving you sullen looks as they pass.
“He’s not alone in wanting to defend Nerei. We all want that deep down,” Erhart says.
[[You put a comforting hand on his shoulder and you move back to the front of the group. |The Next Morning]]
<img src="images/eastforest.jpg" />
The next morning, Erhart joins you at the front of the march and gives you news. The march has taken you through soft-soil plains that have turned muddy with the sudden rain that has begun to fall.
“It seems that Julien was released from his binds at some point yesterday. They say it was one of the Senior Instructors. By then many had become angered at seeing one of their own in chains. We’ve lost over a thousand of our troops, many of them recruits and trainees that were easily swayed. They've taken a sizable portion of our provisions as well...”
You do your best not to not show how this affects you. The heavy rains have greatly slowed your pace, worsening morale that much more.
[[You continue the march, but vow to keep a closer watch on any more dissenters.|On the Road 2]]
<img src="images/mercina.jpg" />
The next day you finally see signs that you've reached the border with Mercina. The nearby holdfast displays the banner of the Riviere royal family. "Thank the gods..." Erhart whispers beside you and you manage a weak smile. Further down the line you hear the rest of the army reacting with joy.
Instructor Cress comes up from behind, but he is not smiling.
When he speaks, his voice is very quiet so that only you and Erhart can hear. "This is cause for celebration, I know..." he says. "But we have to be careful. I don't know Queen Celeste, but I knew her father. That man's ambition was second only to his pride."
The momentary relief you felt at reaching Mercina is replaced with anxiety.
Besides you Erhart is frowning deeply. "But they say the Queen is well-loved by her people." You nod at this, having heard something similar. "They say it's her Council they detest."
"That may be," Cress replies. "A royal is nothing without the support of the people. Think of how she's kept the people's support all these years. Just remember that in politics, nothing is given freely."
[[You consider his words and press on towards Mercina.|Holdfast]]<img src="images/rainyforest.jpg" />
On day four, you stop to rest and take shelter under the sentinel trees of a nearby forest. "How are we on supplies?" you ask Erhart as he plops down on the damp leaves and leans against a giant trunk.
"Running very low," he says simply.
"We'll hunt and scavenge," you reply quickly. Your companion does not seem placated. "It won't be enough. There's too many of us. We can't go on like this much longer."
Two days later you realize Erhart was right. The situation has become dire, with half your army starving and the other half either fatigued or sick from the cold brought on by the coastal winds and ceaseless rain.
"We have to do something." Erhart's voice sounds faint. He is doing his best to keep calm, but his eyes have taken a sunken look to them that frightens you.
[[If we stop now we'll never make it to Mercina. We must continue.|Push]]
[[I'll take a horse and ride ahead. There must be someone near that can help us.|Farmstead]]<img src="images/mercina.jpg" />
As you approach the holdfast a retinue on horseback rides towards you, waving the Mercina standard. Outside the holdfast you see a multitude of carriages and horses, and a crowd of people passing through. It's clear that many who fled Nerei chose a similar route as you.
You bring the march to a stop and give those around you a reassuring smile.
"State your business," one of the knights says coldly, looking down at your group with a critical eye. Following his gaze, you glance at the army. You wonder what the handsome knight in his silver armor thinks of your hungry, exhausted group. You must all look beggars on the street, but considering your predicament you think it could be much worse.
You take a deep breath and explain the situation. "We humbly request an audience with the Queen. Has Prince Ermine arrived?"
"We've received word of Erenne's invasion and have helped the Prince and his family to safety," the knight informs you. "We'll help your troops get settled as comfortably as possible. The Queen's council will be meeting Prince Ermine a day's ride from here. If we leave now we could make it in time for you to attend. I take it you've led the march?"
You nod slowly, but stop to look at your companions briefly.
[[I must do this alone. Instructor, Erhart, I'll see you soon.|Celeste]]
[[Instructor, Erhart... I'd like you both to come with me.|Celeste 2]]<img src="images/mercina.jpg" />
As you approach the holdfast, a retinue on horseback rides towards you, waving the Mercina standard. Outside the structure, you see a multitude of carriages and horses, and a crowd of people passing through. It's clear that many who have fled, have chosen a similar route to the nation.
You bring the march to a stop and give those around you a reassuring smile.
"State your business," one of the knights says coldly, looking down at your group with appears to be disappointment. Following his gaze, you glance at the army. You wonder what the handsome knight in his silver armor thinks of your starving, exhausted group. You know you must all look the worse for wear, but what is done is done, you think.
You take a deep breath and explain the situation. "We humbly request an audience with the Queen. Has Prince Ermine arrived?"
"We've received word of Erenne's invasion and have helped the Prince and his family to safety," the knight informs you. "We'll help your troops get settled as comfortably as possible. The Queen's council will be meeting Prince Ermine a day's ride from here. If we leave now we could make it in time for you to attend. I take it you've led the march?"
[[You tell your companions you will send word as soon as you are able, and turn to depart.|Celeste 3]]<img src="images/northmarshes.png" />
Two days later at dawn, you hear a commotion as everyone is gathering their traveling gear to continue the march. The land north of the Academy is marshy and difficult to traverse. The wetlands makes camping difficult and spreads the soldiers across a large distance.
At the middle of camp you see that a group has gathered around one Cadet. It’s Julien, an older member of the 1st Battalion.
“What are we doing?! Running? I have family not far from here. Am I to just leave them behind?!” Those around him look on in silence, but you feel his anger rousing within them as well. His green eyes are alight. “We need to defend our home! Not run like cowards!”
Erhart steps forward from the crowd and raises a calming hand towards Julien. “Julien, please. Calm yourself.” The other Cadet rounds on him, his blond hair flying, and pummels Erhart to the ground.
You take a hurried step forward.
[[He’s beyond reason, detain him.|Harsh 2]]
[[Try to reason with him.|Forgiving 2]]
<img src="images/northmarshes.png" />
“I agree with you, Julien.” You move forward. “I want to defend Nerei too.”
Julien stops his assault on Erhart and turns to you slowly, the rage still blazing in his eyes. “But we can’t win alone. Erenne is too big, their military too powerful. We need help. The north may be disjointed, but they train their warriors at a young age. They are fearless... With them at our side, we can put and end to this war once and for all.”
You are deeply grateful for those around you who murmur words of agreement. "But if we lose here, we'll never get that chance." Julien seems to come to his senses, looking down at Erhart with shame. He helps his fellow Cadet up and you breathe a sigh of relief.
[[You lock eyes with Julien, who nods at you curtly and walks away.|On the road]]<img src="images/northmarshes.png" />
“Enough! Cadets, detain Julien so he cannot harm anyone else. Bind him and put him on one of the supply carts.”
Two Cadets nearby look at you uncertainly, but follow your orders. "You can't do this, $name! You can't make this choice for all of us!" They take Julien away from the shaken crowd. Erhart stands and wipes the blood from his lips. “The only way to win back our homes is with allies!” Your voice rings out. “We keep moving.” The crowd disperses, giving you sullen looks as they pass.
“He’s not alone in wanting to defend Nerei. We all want that deep down.” Erhart says.
[[You put a comforting hand on his shoulder and you move back to the front of the group. |The Next Morning 2]]<img src="images/northcampfire.jpg" />
On day five your supplies begin to dwindle, but you assess that morale at least has remained steady. You hunt and gather at dusk, and switch days and nights with travel and rest.
On the seventh day by the campfire, you are joined by Erhart and Julien. The pair is in a heated debate and as you listen to them you smile. These two were certainly cut from a different cloth.
"There's a reason why the north is made up of five Principalities, each clan is more proud than the other to ask for help." Julien is moodily tossing sticks into the fire and watching them burn.
"But with one common enemy, we can unite them under a single cause," the younger man responds calmly.
The night is filled with the quiet chatter of soldiers and the snores of those too tired to stay up. Above you the sky is cloudless and filled with fireflies, casting a warm glow over the area you have settled down on for the night.
[[I remember Instructor Cress once saying the northern warriors value strength above all else.|Arriving 5]]<img src="images/northmarshes.png" />
The next morning, Erhart joins you at the front of the march and gives you news.
“It seems that Julien was released from his binds at some point yesterday. They say it was one of the Senior Instructors. By then many had become angered at seeing one of their own in chains. We’ve lost over a thousand of our troops, many of them recruits and trainees that were easily swayed. They've taken a sizable portion of our provisions as well...”
You do your best not to not show how this news effects you.
[[You continue the march, but vow to keep a closer watch for any more dissenters.|On the Road 4]]<img src="images/rainyforest.jpg" />
Those around you look at you with disbelief. Even Erhart averts his gaze and walks away from the scene. The two recruits's dirt-caked faces are streaked with tears. The others help them to their feet and help support them as the march continues. The frigid air from the coast and the incessant rain make it impossible for anyone to stay warm.
For a few moments you cannot move. It's hard to believe that a few days ago you had been home... safe. You keep moving.
The next morning, one of the trainees who had collapsed is found dead. They find him being cradled by the other trainee. The bruises on the dead soldier's neck are stark against his pale skin.
"He begged me to do it! He did! I swear it... I didn't want to!" You look on in horror. "M-My friend! He made me promise, he couldn't go on. P-Please... please help me bury him!"
[[You walk away, numb, with his sobbing ringing in your ears.|Rescue]]<img src="images/rainyforest.jpg" />
Your words of encouragement can only do so much. Senior Instructor Cress appears, looking haggered and half-mad. The march has not been easy on the older instructors either. The constant rain, coupled with the frigid coastal winds, has frozen you all to the bone.
Without a moment of hesitation he roughly grabs one of the fallen recruit's by the shirt and shakes him. "Get up! Keep moving, you coward!" The two recruits's dirt-caked faces are streaked with tears. The others help them to their feet and help support them as the march continues.
For a few moments you cannot move. It's hard to believe that a few days ago you had been home... safe. You keep moving.
The next morning, one of the trainees who had collapsed is found dead. They find him being cradled by the other trainee. The bruises on the dead soldier's neck are stark against his pale skin.
"He begged me to do it! He did! I swear it... I didn't want to!" You look on in horror. "M-My friend! He made me promise, he couldn't go on. P-Please... please help me bury him!"
[[There's nothing you can do for him now... Walk away.|Rescue]]
[[Help bury the fallen man and talk to Instructor Cress.|On the road 4]]<img src="images/rainyforest.jpg" />
By day six, you've completely run out of food, forcing you to forage and hunt for survival. The next day you pass by a tiny farmstead where some soldiers take by force whatever they can. Later that day you spot a lone rider in the distance. You swear that he's donning the colors of the Nerei's royal family. No one around you believes you.
By day eight, the remaining troops are completely spent. "If Erenne has given chase, they'll surely capture every last one of us." Erhart says weakly. "We'll make it, Erhart. We will." You tell him, but it's as if he does not hear.
Your salvation comes the next day, when you hear a commotion near the front of the line. The galloping of horses makes you sure that you're being attacked.
[[But when the horses race down the side of the line bearing the Riviere standard, your legs almost give out in relief.|Refugees]] <img src="images/cart.jpg" />
You are taken to a makeshift refugee camp that had already been set up near the outskirts of Mervue. Those fleeing from Nerei had began arriving in droves four days before your arrival. The air smells of sickness and death, enough to make you gag.
At the camp you collapse and remain bedridden for two days. When you wake Erhart sits beside you, looking clean and rested. His eyes, however, still have that lifeless look to them.
"You're awake." he says simply. "You were right... we made it. But at what cost?"
[[I'm sorry, Erhart. I tried...|The Council 2]]
[[I did what I thought was right. You have no right to accuse me.|The Council]]<img src="images/cart.jpg" />
"It doesn't matter anymore, $name. It's over." Erhart says furiously. "We're nothing but beggars now, nipping at the Queen's heels."
Erhart stands without another word and leaves the tent. You fall back into the straw bed and close your eyes.
The only thing you can think is of your failure.
[[Your fighting days are over, before they even truly started.|Ending 5]]
<img src="images/refugee.jpg" />
Two years later...
You reach down and pass the straw bedroll to the man who waits in the queue. You smile at him, but he averts his gaze in shame. You've gotten used to that, but it pains you all the same.
'That was me once,' you think to yourself. It took a long time for you to pull yourself out of that dark place. You were consumed by the loss of the life you once had. Your dreams were plagued with visions of Commander Gunnar looking at you with shame and disappointment.
Erhart was consumed by that bitterness. Gone was the kind, understanding young man who wanted to help people. You saw less and less of him, until day he was gone and never returned.
You knew then you had to keep going, if not for yourself then for those who sacrificed so much and lost themselves in the process.
Your purpose is to help those effected most by war : the wounded and the refugees seeking safe harbor.
[[Until the war is over, you will fight on, the only way you can now.|End]]<img src="images/grasslands.jpg" />
You crouch low and move against the trees. Screams of pain and horrifying choking sounds echo through the area. Still you stand your ground in a defensive position.
Finally, after what feels like ages, you sense a quiet settle. Feeling safer, you move through the line. Around you people are murmuring about an attack.
You come to a clearing a few yards ahead and see several bodies on the ground. You approach and see a huge heavy lance wet with blood on the ground. Nearby, an Erennian pikeman lies dead, his throat open. You hear Julien's angry voice cursing at the dead pikemen. You come to where he is standing and look down.
Erhart lies face up, eyes staring at the sky. You utter his name in shock.
Julien rounds on you. "Where the hell where you?! We were attacked and you were nowhere to be found!" He spits at your feet. "That bloody badge on your shoulder means nothing!"
[[I-I'm sorry...I didn't know... |Discord 8]]
[[You... this is your fault!! This whole mess is your doing!!|Discord 7]]
[[You bastard, he's dead because of your bloody plan!!|Discord 7]]<img src="images/grasslands.jpg" />
You quickly make your way to where the sounds are coming from and see enemy pikemen. The clash of metal resounds as Julien and two other Cadets engage the enemy.
With their lances, the pikemen are able to keep a distance and the Cadets are just barely able to keep them at bay. You rush forward, pulling your sword from its scabbard in a fluid motion.
One of the pikemen turns to you as you approach and backs away slowly, fear in his eyes. They know they are surrounded. "Erhart, get behind me." you tell the tall Cadet who was caught in the middle.
You boldly close the distance and knock the man's lance aside when he attemps a thrust. The heavy weapon requires too much control, and the frightened soldier is too slow. You rush forward and impale your sword into his chest. He cries out, dropping his weapon. By the time he hits the ground, he is dead.
You turn and see the two other pikemen lie dead as well. But beside them also lies one of the Cadets, Mireya from Class A4. You turn to Julien, the hot rage burning in you.
[[This... is what your plan has cost us, Julien.|Discord 9]]
[[You... this is your fault!! This whole mess is your doing!!|Discord 9]]
<img src="images/abandonedhome.jpg" />
Julien turns away from you in disgust. "Take their weapons." he orders the pale faced trainee beside him. "What about Erhart?" a recruit asks with a tremulous voice.
"We don't have time, these men were scouts. There will be more. Cover him with leaves. We keep marching." Julien returns to the front of the line.
You look down at your friend once more, a lump at your throat. "Forgive me." you say, closing his eyes.
The march continues, despite the low morale.
Two days later you come across an inn, where you are given food and are able to rest momentarily. It's a tiny place made of red, chipped brick. Inside it's modestly decorated, and based on the food you sense the innkeeper is struggling to get by. His young children hang about watching you curiously with big eyes.
[[Tell the innkeeper of Erenne's invasion.|Captured]]
[[You don't want to frighten the children, so you thank the innkeeper and leave.|Narrow escape]]
<img src="images/abandonedhome.jpg" />
You punch Julien knocking him to the ground. You are pulled back by a few other Cadets and you struggle against them. Julien rises slowly and wipes the blood from his lips.
"You wanted a concensus." he says coldly. "I know you wanted to run, but the rest of us have more honor than that."
Julien turns away from you in disgust. "Take their weapons." he orders the pale faced trainee beside him. "What about Erhart?" a recruit asks with a tremulous voice.
"We don't have time, these men were scouts. There will be more. Cover him with leaves. We keep marching." Julien returns to the front of the line.
You look down at your friend once more, a lump at your throat. "Forgive me." you say, closing his eyes.
The march continues, despite the low morale.
Two days later you come across an inn, where you are given food and are able to rest momentarily. It's a tiny place made of red, chipped brick. Inside it's modestly decorated, and based on the food you sense the innkeeper is struggling to get by. His young children hang about watching you curiously with big eyes.
[[Tell the innkeeper of Erenne's invasion.|Captured]]
[[You don't want to frighten the children, so you thank the innkeeper and leave.|Narrow escape]]
<img src="images/abandonedhome.jpg" />
You punch Julien knocking him to the ground. You are pulled back by a few other Cadets and you struggle against them. Julien rises slowly and wipes the blood from his lips.
"You wanted a concensus." he says coldly. "I know you wanted to run, but the rest of us have more honor than that."
Julien turns away from you in disgust. "Take their weapons." he orders the pale faced trainee beside him. "What about Mireya?" a recruit asks with a tremulous voice.
"We don't have time, these men were scouts. There will be more. Cover her with leaves. We keep marching." Julien returns to the front of the line.
Erhart approaches. "She didn't need to die..." he murmurs, and bends down to close her eyes
The march continues, despite the low morale.
Two days later you come across an inn, where you are given food and are able to rest momentarily. It's a tiny place made of red, chipped brick. Inside it's modestly decorated, and based on the food you sense the innkeeper is struggling to get by. His young children hang about watching you curiously with big eyes.
The innkeeper brings you more drink and smiles, but you feel his suspicious eyes look you up and down.
[[Tell the innkeeper of Erenne's invasion.|Captured 2]]
[[You don't want to frighten the children, so you thank the innkeeper and leave.|Narrow Escape 2]]<img src="images/dustyfights.jpg" />
The innkeeper is grateful for the information and he quickly prepares his family to depart.
You run out of food two days later and are forced to scavenged and hunt to survive.
Your hope is rekindled when you reach the East Mountain Path. You know this means the border to Erenne is just on the other side. The group decides to stop for the night. But it is all for naught.
You are woken roughly in the middle of the night and forced up against the rocks you took shelter by.
"Found the rats, at last." Your eyes adjust to the darkness and you see your captors. Erennian pikemen, this time you are the ones outnumbered and surrounded. "And betrayed by your own countrymen. That innkeep valued his life, and the lives of his family." the man adds. "Do you?"
"Go to hell!" Julien responds viciously. The man turns to him. "Ah, and we have their leader," his black eyes look at Julien appraisingly as he approaches the Cadet. "You're going to be a problem, aren't you?"
Julien spits in his face, and without hesitation, the Erennian buries his lance in Julien. The Cadet makes one choking sound before he falls to the ground. "Anyone else?"
[[No one moves or makes a sound.|Prisoners]]
<img src="images/dustyfights.jpg" />
The innkeeper is grateful for the information and he quickly prepares his family to depart.
You run out of food two days later and are forced to scavenged and hunt to survive.
Your hope is rekindled when you reach the East Mountain Path. You know this means the border to Erenne is just on the other side. The group decides to stop for the night. But it is all for naught.
You are woken roughly in the middle of the night and forced up against the rocks you took shelter by.
"Found the rats, at last." Your eyes adjust to the darkness and you see your captors. Erennian pikemen, this time you are the ones outnumbered and surrounded. "And betrayed by your own countrymen. That innkeep valued his life, and the lives of his family." the man adds. "Do you?"
"Go to hell!" Julien responds viciously. The man turns to him. "Ah, and we have their leader." his black eyes look at Julien appraisingly as he approaches the Cadet. "You're going to be a problem, aren't you?"
Julien spits in his face, and without hesitation, the Erennian buries his lance in Julien. The Cadet makes one choking sound before he falls to the ground. "Anyone else?"
"We'll do as you say." Erhart's voice rings out in the darkness. "Just don't hurt anyone else."
[[You look over at your friend, both grateful and ashamed.|Prisoners 2]]<img src="images/desertprisoner.jpg" />
You are chained and led through the Mountain Path. The soldier's beat any who resist are move too slowly. Those that fall from exhausted are executed without mercy.
You hold on to only one shred of hope. That you may see Commander Gunnar at the Spire. He would know what to do.
But would he be proud? Angry? Disappointed?
[[You can't think of that know, you have to keep moving.|Ending 7]]
<img src="images/desertprisoner.jpg" />
You are chained and led through the Mountain Path. The soldier's beat any who resist or move too slowly. Those that fall from exhaustion are executed without mercy.
You hold on to only one shred of hope. That you may see Commander Gunnar at the Spire. He would know what to do.
But would he be proud? Angry? Disappointed?
[[You can't think of that now, you have to keep moving.|Ending 8]]
<img src="images/prison.jpg" />
You wake at first light and drag yourself up against the cold stone wall.
You pull the pin of recognition out of your hiding spot and the memories come flooding back.
You haven't stepped outside your cell since the day you were brough to the Spire. A few weeks later, you saw the guards dragging the lifeless body of Commander Gunnar out into the yard. You had heard them torturing him for hours and eat scream tugged at the last threads of your sanity.
You don't know how you've held on. You have no idea what has happened to your country since you were captured. You're not sure you even care anymore.
But the memories of the Academy still come to you each day that you look at the pin. You think of the Commander, and of Erhart, and your eyes fill with tears. You refuse to forget.
[[You close your hand tightly over the pin until you feel the metal dig into you..|End]]<img src="images/prison.jpg" />
Two years later...
You wake at first light and drag yourself up against the cold stone wall.
You pull the pin of recognition out of your hiding spot and the memories come flooding back.
You haven't stepped outside your cell since the day you were brough to the Spire. A few weeks later, you saw the guards dragging the lifeless body of Commander Gunnar out into the yard. You had heard them torturing him for hours and each scream tugged at the last threads of your sanity. Erhart died of the wasting sickness a year ago. He would whisper to you in the dark when the lazy guard would fall asleep.
You don't know how you've held on. You have no idea what has happened to your country since you were captured. You're not sure you even care anymore.
But the memories of the Academy still come to you each day, when you look at the pin of recognition. You think of the Commander, and of Erhart, and your eyes fill with tears.
[[You refuse to forget.|End]]The End.<img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
"You're not the first to laugh," Erhart says with a stony smile. "I know it sounds ridiculous. But it's not to me. It's not just about helping people heal from their wounds. When the dust settles someone has to be there to help them rebuild their lives."
You see the fire burning in Erhart's eyes as he continues. "I want to be a voice for peace... even to those convinced we'll never achieve it."
You both stop outside Commander Gunnar's office and you look over at him.
[[I agree with you... I want peace too.|Gunnar 1]]
[[Peace is not yet within our grasp, but I believe we can get there.|Gunnar 1]]
[[We won't have peace until one side is destroyed.|Gunnar 2]]<img src="images/courtyard.jpg" />
"I know the importance of a medic, but I don't simply want to be another fixture in this endless war." Erhart smiles, a little sad now. "When the dust settles... I want to help people effected by war make a new life for themselves."
He looks over at you and his pale face reddens a little. "And I want to be a voice for peace... even to those convinced we'll never achieve it."
You both stop outside Commander Gunnar's office and you look over at him.
[[I agree with you... I want peace too.|Gunnar 1]]
[[Peace is not yet within our grasp, but I believe we can get there.|Gunnar 1]]
[[We won't have peace until one side is destroyed.|Gunnar 2]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
"It shouldn't have to come to that," Erhart says, his tone taking an angry edge. "We should be fighting for more than just a bloody end."
You step into the office to the strong smell of old parchment and incense. Commander Gunnar likes to burn it while he reads late into the night. The middle-aged man looks up from his papers and stands from the great oak desk when he sees you.
He has salt-and-pepper, short cropped hair and a square jaw that gives him a stern appearance. However, the brown eyes behind his glasses have an undeniable warmth to them. Despite his age, Commander Gunnar strikes an imposing, well-built figure. There are several scars on his face and his left hand is mottled from an old wound that did not heal well. He is a veteran of the Enduring War and the man who has taught you since you first came to the Academy.
"$name, come in," he says with the smallest of grins. He is not a man of smiles, but he reserves them for a select few. Though you will never admit it, you know you are his favorite student. "Erhart, sorry to bother you with this task. I had... an urgent matter to attend to."
For the first time you notice that his forhead is lined with worry.
"Not a problem, Commander," Erhart replies with a polite nod. He seems to have cooled off from your earlier disagreement.
[[Is everything alright, Commander?|Trouble]]
[[We were meant to start my new assignment this morning, Commander. You said first thing in the morning.|Trouble 2]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
"No need for reprimands, $name. I know punctuality is important." The commander signals you both to sit. Erhart hesitates momentarily, but does as he's told.
You walk over to the wood chairs that sit before the Commander. "There no cause for alarm yet... but our border guard sent word of suspicious activity near Reiner Castle."
"Reiner?" Erhart murmurs. "I'm not sure I'm familiar."
Commander Gunnar nods. "Most aren't. It's tiny. Hardly a castle at all. By it's the closest territory to the Kingdom of Erenne, so we patrol the area heavily."
Beside you Erhart fidgets uncomfortably. "Erenne. I thought they were focusing their fight to the north. The last reports said their troops were moving towards Almeida."
You hear Commander grunt at this, his way of laughing. "Apparently some outlaws used it as a home base for years... Almeida is nothing but a ruin now. They took it anyway, without resistence. But that doesn't mean they can't be making a move in the south as well."
You took note of Commander Gunnar's words before, ("there's no cause for alarm yet"), but the tone of his voice says otherwise.
[[It's happening... Erenne is finally invading.|Erenne]]
[[I knew one day those dogs would attack.|Erenne]]
<img src="images/rainyforest.jpg" />
Although you've taken the safest route east through woods and plains, it has not been easy. You ran out of provisions on day five, forcing you to scavenge and hunt as you continued on.
Very few in your ranks know eastern Nerei. It is the least populated part of the nation. Being plagued by heavy rains for most of your journey, you understand why. Coupled with the coastal winds, everyone is chilled to the bone and miserable when you arrive at a farmstead on the seventh day.
You are grateful for the food and rest.
"The Prince 'n his family fled to Mercina," the farmer tells you. "We saw them through here two days past. We decided to stay a few more days, to help anyone else we could."
This news gives your group hope. If you can just get to Mercina, you can speak to the Prince and try to form an alliance with Queen Celeste.
[[When you continue on, most of those that remained at the farm join you.|Arriving]]<img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
"$name, are you sure that is wise?" Erhart whispers in your ear, his eyes fixed on the knight of Mercina. Instructor Cress looks tense, but he says nothing.
"Don't worry," you assure them as you are quickly led away from them.
The next day you arrive to Mervue, a bustling city of trade. Although it is not a port city, it is close enough to the coast that it receives most merchants traveling to Nerei and the rest of the Principalities. It is only morning, but the streets are already lined with makeshift stands where grocers and armorers can display their wares.
The knight hasn't said much to you the entire journey, and now he signals you to enter what appears to be a garments shop. You frown, confused, but proceed. You are then led to the back of the empty shop, to a small room where a beautiful woman sits next to what appears to be some kind of sewing mechanism. She is wearing a dress of the richest silk that fans out around her, and her hair is powedered and coiffed high on her head.
"Ah, Cadet $name. My brother sent word of the terrible ordeal you have been through." Her voice is husky and honeyed, her eyes a beautiful amber color. "It's so good of you to come."
[[It appears I wasn't given a choice, Your Grace.|The Queen]]<img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
"That won't be necessary," the knight speaks up tersely.
"We will stay by our commander's side." Erhart's voice is soft, but firm and brooks no argument. The knight seems on the verge to protest, but thinks better of it and gives a single nod.
The next day you arrive to Mervue, a bustling city of trade. Although it is not a port city, it is close enough to the coast that it receives most merchants traveling to Nerei and the rest of the Principalities. It is only morning, but the streets are already lined with makeshift stands where grocers and armorers can display their wares.
The knight hasn't said much to you the whole journey, and now he signals you to enter what appears to be a garments shop. You exchange confused looks with Erhart and Cress, but proceed inside. You are then led to the back of the empty shop, to a small room where a beautiful woman sits next to what appears to be some kind of sewing mechanism. She is wearing a dress of the richest silk that fans out around her, and her hair is powedered and coiffed high on her head.
"Ah, Cadet $name. My brother sent word of the terrible ordeal you have been through." Her voice is husky and honeyed, her eyes a beautiful amber color. "It's so good of you to come."
[[It appears I wasn't given a choice, Your Grace.|The Queen 2]]<img src="images/dressop.jpg" />
The Queen fixes you with an enigmatic smile. "Not one to mince words, it seems."
Celeste adjustes the skirt of her dress with delicate, jewel-encrusted hands. "I shall give you a valuable piece of advice you will need now that you are in Mercina--- you WILL have to mince words, from time to time." That same smile is still playing at her lips. "And you'll want to shout and scream and curse your enemies and those who pretend to be your allies. Do that when you are alone in your chambers, and even then be careful. You never know whose ear is at the door."
You glance behind you and see that the knight who brought you here is standing guard in silence.
"Now, let us discuss an alliance." She sees the look on her face and she lets out a tiny chuckle. "Oh, yes, just us for now. In fact, when you meet my Council, they must think it is the first time we are meeting."
[[Do you conduct all your dealings in secrecy?|Taking Stock 1]]<img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
"Not one to mince words, it seems." The Queen fixes you with an enigmatic smile, which quickly dies on her lips when she notices you haven't come alone.
She eyes Erhart and Instructor Cress with thinly veiled distaste, but she quickly recovers and smiles warmly at them.
Celeste adjustes the skirt of her dress with delicate, jewel-encrusted hands. "I shall give you all a valuable piece of advice you will need now that you are in Mercina--- you WILL have to mince words, from time to time." That same smile is still playing at her lips. "And you'll want to shout and scream and curse your enemies and those who pretend to be your allies. Do that when you are alone in your chambers, and even then be careful. You never know whose ear is at the door."
You glance behind you and see that the knight who brought you here is standing guard in silence.
"Now, let us discuss an alliance." She sees the look on her face and she lets out a tiny chuckle. "Oh, yes, just us for now. In fact, when you meet my Council, they must think it is the first time we are meeting."
[[Do you conduct all your dealings in secrecy?|Taking Stock]]<img src="images/dressop.jpg" />
"Believe me, I dislike it just as much as you do," she responds, but you sense that she's not being fully honest with herself in that.
"My council will not welcome you with open arms. In fact they want nothing to do with Nerei or any of the other Principalities. But you've done an excellent job of bringing your army to safety. Without a single casualty, my brother tells me. You've done half the work of convincing them this is what is best for both our nations."
Her beautiful eyes bore into you.
"Now, if you will only pledge yourself to me, the alliance is as good as done. The Council awaits, we have no time to waste."
Her words fill you with equal parts dread and hope. You need to make this work, if you ever hope to liberate Nerei. How far can you push your luck?
[[Quickly accept the alliance.|Weak Alliance]]
[[Attempt to negotiate the terms.|Alliance 1]]<img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
"Believe me, I dislike it just as much as you do," she responds, but you sense that she's not being fully honest with herself in that.
"My council will not welcome you with open arms. In fact they want nothing to do with Nerei or any of the other Principalities. But you've done an excellent job of bringing your army to safety. Without a single casualty, my brother tells me. You've done half the work of convincing them this is what is best for both our nations."
Her beautiful eyes bore into you.
"Now, if you will only pledge yourself to me, the alliance is as good as done. The Council awaits, we have no time to waste."
Her words fill you with equal parts dread and hope. You need to make this work, if you ever hope to liberate Nerei. How far can you push your luck? You are grateful for Erhart who speaks up from the silence that has fallen.
"Pledge ourselves to you, my Queen? Forgive me, but we are still soldiers of Nerei and our army's fealty is to our Prince." You nod in agreement.
"We will help you in any way we can, but we aim to retake our home from King Urgos and we will need your help to accomplish this," Instructor Cress adds.
[[Let us discuss the terms of our Alliance.|Alliance 2]]<img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
"Excellent," Celeste says, leaning back on the chair and folding her hands on her lap. "I think this is the begining of a great friendship, Cadet $name."
You attempt to return her smile, but your insides are in knots.
You hear the Queen talking about the Council and Prince Ermine, but it feels distant now, as you feel the fatigue take over.
[[The days ahead will become a blur, but the Flight from Nerei will be forever burned in your mind.|Ending2]] <img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
"A counter-offer?" Celeste says with a smile, but her eyes are cold.
You think of the arduous path you've taken and how hard you all fought to reach safety.
"I am still a soldier of Nerei, Your Highness. Our alliance will not change that fact, and our goal is to retake our homes. I will help you in any way I can, but I will not turn my back on my duty."
For a few seconds you are not sure how Celeste will react. She is tracing the sapphire on her necklace with a delicate finger and are eyes are difficult to read.
"So be it," she says with a sigh, but she is smiling. "You're smarter than I thought, Cadet $name."
You attempt to return her smile, but your insides are in knots.
[[You hear the Queen talking about the Council and Prince Ermine, but it feels distant now, as you feel the fatigue take over.|Ending 1]]<img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
"A counter-offer?" Celeste says with a smile, but her eyes look cold.
You think of the aruous path you've taken and how hard you all fought to reach safety.
"I am still a soldier of Nerei, Your Highness. Our alliance will not change that fact, and our goal is to retake our homes. I will help you in any way I can, but I will not turn my back on my duty."
For a few seconds you are not sure how Celeste will react. She is tracing a sapphire on her necklace and are eyes are difficult to read.
"So be it," she says with a sigh, but she is smiling. "You're smarter than I thought, Cadet $name. And it seems you've surrounded yourself with men who you can rely on."
You attempt to return her smile, but your insides are in knots.
[[You hear the Queen talking about the Council and Prince Ermine, but it feels distant now, as you feel the fatigue take over.|Ending 1]]
<img src="meetingplace.jpg" />
Two years later...
You make your way down the cobbled path that leads out of the Royal Gardens. A few minutes later you glance back and see the giant Palace of Mercina sticking out over the city like a sore thumb. Just looking at it leaves a sour taste in your mouth.
"Another bad day?" Instructor Cress asks when you sit before him in his study moments later. You shake your head and say nothing, mentally drained. The desk is covered in missives and letters. Cress gives you a sympathetic look and returns to his writing. You can see he is addressing the Prince of some principality to the east. His hands look old, you notice for the first time. The last few years have been difficult on him, moving from city to city at the Queen's command. But he has stuck by you. Both he and Erhart have never wavered in their loyalty.
"Where is Erhart?" you ask looking around.
"He should be home soon." Cress responds, not looking up from the letter he is writing. "He was able to secure lodging for another wave of refugees."
When Erhart enters a while later he looks tired but has a smile on his face.
"They weren't from the Northern Principalities... They were from Nerei. Can you believe it? Those that stayed behind are still resisting." his voice is hushed with awe. "We haven't questioned them yet, it's too soon. Right now we are all just grateful they made it out."
Erhart beams and you return his smile. Always the optimist, you think.
'But where do we go from here?' You think to yourself. A part of you feels trapped and bound to Queen Celeste, helping her in the constant tug of war with the Council.
But you have a plan. Together with your companions, you are setting it in motion.
Cress finshes his letter. With a smile and a flourish he pulls a bottle of red wine from under his desk. [[You all laugh at his child-like excitement as he begins to pour.|End]]<img src="images/mercinaend.jpg" />
Two years later...
Your boots echo in the pristine tile of the royal palace. It's so polished that you can see your reflection looking back at you as you head out into the streets.
"You did well in there, considering..." Instructor Cress says, trying to draw you out of your thoughts. The Council was furious when you told them you were planning another attack on Erenne to cut off one of their supply lines.
"We don't need their permission, I was merely doing them a courtesy." Your companion laughs in his grandfatherly way, which never fails to make you smile.
The day is warm as usual and the streets are teeming with people, all speaking jovially in foreign tongues. That took some getting used to, but once you grew accustomed to the different accents and customs, you were able to establish important friendships with dignitaries from across the sea.
Erhart joins you both for dinner later than night with good news. "We've managed to resettle several hundred on the Western coast," he says beaming. "$name, I need you to deploy 200 soldiers to help defend and patrol the area in case the Kingdom of Erenne decides to attack again."
You nod in agreement. These news fill you with hope. It has only been a few months since you retook part of Nerei from enemy grasp, and it was not easy. But knowing that some of your people can finally return and rebuild is the only reward you need.
You wonder what lies in store. At night, alone, you still think of Commander Gunnar and what became of him.
There is still much work ahead, but right now you are with your most trusted friends and advisors who keep you grounded. [[You pull out a bottle of wine and begin to pour.|End]]<img src="images/farm.png" />
You jump on the healthiest-looking horse and gallop away from the resting army. You follow the road ahead for what feels like hours, until finally you reach a fork in the road. Withouth hesitation, you head due east and urge your horse harder than before.
Your face breaks out into a grin when you see a farmstead in the distance. The rain has softened to a mist, another sign that maybe luck is on your side. A laugh escapes your lips as a figure in the distance hails you, waving his hat in the air. You raise your hand and wave back, galloping on.
Hours later, your army reaches the farm with your guidance. You are all promptly fed by the farmer and his family. You cannot express the gratitude you feel to him.
"Issa least we can do atta time like this," he replies. "My wife 'n I, we chose ta stay back when we heard news of th' invasion. We thought maybe there might be other folk tryin' to escape that we could help. Well, now's as good time as any to go. We done our part."
The next morning, you gather what supplies are left and raze the farm to the ground.
[[The farmer and his family look on with tears brimming in their eyes, and together you all turn away and continue the march to Mercina.|Arriving 2]]<img src="images/mercina.jpg" />
The next day you finally see signs that you've reached the border with Mercina. The nearby holdfast displays the banner of the Riviere royal family. "Thank the gods..." Erhart whispers beside you and you manage a weak smile. Further down the line you hear the rest of the army reacting with joy.
Instructor Cress comes up from behind, but he is not smiling.
When he speaks, his voice is very quiet so that only you and Erhart can hear. "This is cause for celebration, I know..." he says. "But we have to be careful. I don't know Queen Celeste, but I knew her father. That man's ambition was second only to his pride."
The momentary relief you felt at reaching Mercina is replaced with anxiety.
Besides you Erhart is frowning deeply. "But they say the Queen is well-loved by her people." You nod at this, having heard something similar. "They say it's her Council they detest."
"That may be," Cress replies. "A royal is nothing without the support of the people. Think of how she's kept the people's support all these years. Just remember that in politics, nothing is given freely."
[[You consider his words and press on towards Mercina.|Holdfast 2]]<img src="images/rainyforest.jpg" />
You push the army to continue the march after a short rest. The enemy may be closer than you think, and the frigid rains have slowed you down enough.
You don't see the error of your ways until a few days later, when you approach Erhart crouching next to a man who is clearly dead.
"The cold took him in the night," he tells you as he closes the Senior Instructor's eyes. "At his age it's no wonder his body couldn't take anymore."
The next few days take the lives several dozen more soldiers as sickness spreads throughout the camp. Without food or medicine, the number of dead will rise.
"$name, we can't go on like this..." Erhart says in the darkness as you struggle to fall asleep one night. Despite your exhaustion, your mind never lets you rest.
[[You sleep as much as possible and continue the march the next morning.|Dire]]<img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
Erhart and Instructor Cress looks tense, but hang back as you move away from them.
"Don't worry," you assure them as you are quickly led away from them.
The next day you arrive to Mervue, a bustling city of trade. Although it is not a port city, it is close enough to the coast that it receives most merchants traveling to Nerei and the rest of the Principalities. It is only morning, but the streets are already lined with makeshift stands where grocers and armorers can display their wares.
The knight hasn't said much to you the whole journey, and now he signals you to enter what appears to be a garments shop. You frown, confused, but proceed. You are then led to the back of the empty shop, to a small room where a beautiful woman sits next to what appears to be some kind of sewing mechanism. She is wearing a dress of the richest silk that fans out around her, and her hair is powedered and coiffed high on her head.
"Ah, Cadet $name. My brother sent word of the awful state the Army of Nerei is in." Her voice is husky and honeyed, her eyes a beautiful amber color. "And you came to speak to me despite how tired you must be."
[[It appears I wasn't given a choice, Your Grace.|The Queen 3]]<img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
The Queen fixes you with an enigmatic smile. "Not one to mince words, it seems."
Celeste adjustes the skirt of her dress with delicate, jewel-encrusted hands. "I shall give you a valuable piece of advice you will need now that you are in Mercina--- you WILL have to mince words, from time to time." That same smile is still playing at her lips. "And you'll want to shout and scream and curse your enemies and those who pretend to be your allies. Do that when you are alone in your chambers, and even then be careful. You never know whose ear is at the door."
You glance behind you and see that the knight who brought you here is standing guard in silence.
"Now, let us discuss an alliance." She sees the look on her face and she lets out a tiny chuckle. "Oh, yes, just us for now. In fact, when you meet my Council, they must think it is the first time we are meeting."
[[Do you conduct all your dealings in secrecy?|Take Stock 3]]<img src="images/dresshop.jpg" />
"Trust me, I dislike it just as much as you do," she responds, but you sense that she's not being fully honest with herself in that.
"My council will not welcome you with open arms. In fact they want nothing to do with Nerei or any of the other Principalities. Especially once they learned of what your leadership cost your army..." She shakes her head sadly, but her beautiful eyes have a predatory glint.
"But I may be able to convince The Council, yet. All you have to do is pledge yourself to me. They are waiting for us now... there is no time to waste."
Her words fill you with equal parts dread and hope. You need to make this work, if you ever hope to liberate Nerei. How far can you push your luck?
[[I... I accept.|Weak Alliance]]<img src="images/northcampfire.jpg" />
Erhart smiles wearily and turns to the fire. "Strength... how do we prove something so subjective?"
The question lingers in your head well into the night.
Seven days into your march you finally start to see road signs that indicate you have reached the northern border and not a moment too soon. Your food and water are gone now and you're relying solely on what you can take from the land. The troops are all spent.
"What is that?" Erhart says frowning. "Someone in trouble?"
In the distance you see smoke billowing up into the sky. The enemy? You look to the road sign. Due north is the nearest neighboring city and the place you will find refuge. You don't know what lies East and you ask yourself what danger you'd be leading your army to.
[[Continue North.|Lucar]]
[[Investigate.|1st Battle]]<img src="images/nomad.jpg" />
"We have to continue," you say loudly and the march does not stop. Erhart rushes over to your side and speaks in a hushed tone.
"$name, what if there are people who need our help? Our duty as soldiers is to protect them."
You keep your eyes fixed to the road ahead and respond without hesitation. "Right now I must focus on getting everyone to safety... and we are not in a position to fight in this state."
Your companion opens his mouth to protest, but stops himself and retreats without another word. You turn back towards the smoke in the distance and pause, but only for a second. You continue the march.
Half a day later you reach the City of Lucar. Outside the wooden city gates several dozen men and women on horseback wait your approach with their bows drawn.
[[You raise your hands and approach cautiously.|Warriors]]<img src="images/rainyforest.jpg" />
The next morning as you prepare to continue the march you realize that Erhart is nowhere to be found. You begin to question those who were closest to him, but no one has seen him since the previous night.
His things lay forgotten on the wet ground.
The panic begins to rise in you, but no one else seems to have the energy to help you search. With a sick and starving camp, can you afford to linger?
[[Search for Erhart.|Field of Crops]]
[[Press on.|Abandoned]]
<img src="images/mercina.jpg" />
You close your eyes and push back your emotions. You feel the weight of the responsibility placed upon you, all those lives entrused to you. You return back to the front of the line and continue the march, a lump at your throat.
Finally, two days later the army has managed to inch their way to the border with Mercina. You see in the distance a holdfast flying the royal flag. The rain has stopped its onslaught and now the warm rays of the sun uplifts you as you make the last leg of the journey.
As you approach the holdfast a retinue on horseback rides towards you, waving the Mercina standard. You bring the march to a stop and give those around you a reassuring smile. The faces that look back at you are blank and hollow-eyed.
"State your business," one of the knights says coldly, looking down at you all with distaste. Following his gaze, you glance at the army. You wonder what the handsome knight in his silver armor thinks of your starving, exhausted group. You know you all must look like beggars on the streets.
You take a deep breath and explain the situation. "We humbly request an audience with the Queen. Has Prince Ermine arrived?"
"We'll help settle you lot," the knight replies grudgingly. "As for an audience with the Queen..." He looks you up and down as if appraising a fresh cut of meat. Your mouth tightens as you wait. "Come with me, I'll see what I can do."
[[You try to reassure those around you, but none seem to be paying you much mind.|Celeste 4]]<img src="images/corn.jpg" />
He can't have gone far. You order the army to continue to rest and climb on one of the steeds you've brought along.
The rain has thankfully subsided. You try to remain calm as you ride out north first, then west for what feels like hours. You know you can't stray far from the camp and that every minute that goes by increases the odds of the enemy catching up to you.
But you refuse to abandon one of your own.
When the sun is high in the sky, you know it is mid day and you start to lose hope. You urge the horse forward, through the thicket and a cluster of trees. When you emerge on the other side, your breath is caught in your throat.
Before you is a field of crops. The breeze gently shakes the corn stalks, creating a sound that sounds almost like a whisper.
And there on the ground, lies Erhart.
[[You jump off the horse and rush to him.|Recovery]]<img src="mercina.jpg" />
The next day you arrive to Mervue, a bustling city of trade. Although it is not a port city, it is close enough to the coast that it receives most merchants traveling to Nerei and the rest of the Principalities. It is only morning, but the streets are already lined with makeshift stands where grocers and armorers can display their wares.
The knight hasn't said much to you the whole journey, and now he signals you to enter what appears to be a garments shop. You frown, confused, but proceed. You are then led to the back of the empty shop, to a small room where a beautiful woman sits next to what appears to be some kind of sewing mechanism. She is wearing a dress of the richest silk that fans out around her, and her hair is powedered and coiffed high on her head.
"Ah... you must be Cadet $name." Her voice is husky and honeyed, her eyes a beautiful amber color. "My brother told me of the pitiful state you were found in. How awful you must feel..."
[[I'm not here for your pity, Your Grace.|The Queen 5]]
[[My feelings are of no concern... I'm here for my country.|The Queen 5]]<img src="dresshop.jpg" />
"Watch your tongue!" the knight shouts from behind you. The Queen fixes you with a smile and raising a calming hand. Her porcelain face reveals very little.
"Not one to mince words, it seems." Celeste adjustes the skirt of her dress with delicate, jewel-encrusted hands. "A loose tongue will not help you, not that prudence would do you much good at this point."
You glance behind you and see that the knight who brought you here is standing guard and glowering at you.
"Things are truly dire for you and your army," she murmurs. "I ask myself why you even sought an audience with me."
[[With some rest... our troops will be back in top form.|Take Stock 5]]<img src="dresshop.jpg" />
Queen Celeste tuts and shakes her head sadly.
"I am afraid that won't be enough," she tells you. "You see, the Council wants nothing to do with you or any of the Principalities. I want to help you, truly I do, but with the state of your army, how can I?"
You search her eyes and feel the panic rising in you.
"You are too few to make an impact. What will you say when they ask you how and why you lost half your army?"
You open your mouth to respond, but she interrupts you. "Nothing you say will appease them. Of course, we will not turn those in need away. But beyond this aid, there is nothing I can do."
[[Please, Your Grace! We came so far...|Refugees 1]]<img src="dresshop.jpg" />
"I am sure it was a difficult journey," she says rising and adjusting a loose strand of her powedered hair. "You did what you could. Those you led to safely will surely be thankful."
Without another word, she gives you one last smile and exits the room with her silk skirts trailing behind.
[[You are left alone, shaking and destitute.|Ending 3]]
<img src="refugees.jpg" />
Two years later...
It is early morning but the queue is already long. You join the line and look around. You wave to a few of the other refugees who join you, and begin their daily complaints.
"We need new bedrools. The straw in mine has gone all worn. I hardly got a wink of sleep," one of them says grumpily.
"Well set that hope to rest, this is as good as it's going to get," Cress, your former instructor responds. The last few years have been difficult on him and he looks more like a grandfather than ever, with his long beard and curving back.
Looking at him is painful, because it reminds you of the Academy and of Erhart. You later learned that his body had been found by a cornfield a few days after you arrived to Mercina. With his dying breath he had been trying to find food for the army.
When your thoughts turn to him, you wonder how long you can go on like this. How long can you go on as a beggar in a foreign land? The hate you felt for the makeshift tents and gruel they call food was long ago replaced by quiet resignation.
But Queen Celeste is still fighting the Kingdom of Erenne. Perhaps it is time for you to swallow your pride and join her ranks. The mantra you have spoken to yourself day after day fills your thoughts.
[['Tomorrow...' you think, 'Tomorrow I'll decide.'|End]]<img src="images/mercina.jpg" />
Erhart is alive but exhausted and ill. You take him back to camp where you tend to him and send out groups to gather as much as you can from the fields. Though he cannot hear you in his slumber, you thank Erhart profusely for what he has done.
Two days later you finally see signs that you've arrived to Mercina. The nearby holdfast displays the banner of the Riviere royal family.
"Thank the gods..." Erhart whispers beside you. He looks malnourished, but much better than when you first found him.
[[Further down the line you hear the rest of the army reacting with joy.|Arriving 3]]
<img src="images/mercina.jpg" />
Instructor Cress comes up from behind, but he is not smiling.
When he speaks, his voice is very quiet so that only you and Erhart can hear. "This is cause for celbration, I know..." he says. "But we have to be careful. I don't know Queen Celeste, but I knew her father. That man's ambition was second only to his pride."
The momentary relief you felt at reaching Mercina is replaced with anxiety.
Besides you Erhart is frowning deeply. "But they say the Queen is well-loved by her people." You nod at this, having heard something similar. "They say it's her Council they detest."
"That may be," Cress replies. "A royal is nothing without the support of the people. Think of how she's kept the people's support all these years. Just remember that in politics, nothing is given freely."
[[You consider his words and press on towards Mercina.|Holdfast 2]]<img src="images/nomad.jpg" />
"That's close enough," one of the riders says. You waste no time in explaining who you are and Erenne's invasion.
"We know," a rough voice responds. The man is wearing all leather and his face is deeply scarred from battle. "Half our forces are doing battle with them now."
You turn back towards Erhart and see the shock in his face is a reflection of your own expression.
"Our strongest rode out last night when we heard Erenne had attacked Caliz. They have not returned and we know not how they fare."
Erhart comes to stand beside you and speaks. "Perhaps they were waiting for us to arrive at that border town... or anyone else fleeing Nerei."
Behind you this information has started to cause a commotion. You are not suprised to see that the most vocal of them is Julien. "We have to help. We have to push Erenne back!"
Cries of agreement fill the air. You turn back to the warriors on horseback and see they are looking at your fellow Cadet with what appears to be admiration.
[[You're right... the time has come.|Fight]]
[[No... we will only be a liability.|Stand Down]]<img src="images/nomad.jpg" />
You follow the smoke that is billowing up into the sky. You press on until the screams of war and the smell of burnt grass reach you. In the distance you can see several dozen riders rushing over to you.
Motivated by their desire to help defeat the enemy, the soldiers of Nerei now quicken their pace, ignoring their fatigue. You turn back and see the same look of determination on their faces, though the fear and apprehension is also there beneath the surface.
"Halt!" a woman dressed in boiled leathers shouts. She slows her horse down to a stop. "Who are you?"
When you meet them on the road, they take a few moments to catch their breaths. "We're soldiers of Nerei. We're here to help," you tell them. "And it looks like we came just in time." The woman looks at you and your companions with apprehension. She is well-muscled and hardy. Her dark eyes are suspicous, but not cold.
"We thought we had them beat," she says finally. "It was a small force and without shields they didn't stand a chance. We rained arrows down on most of them, but a few holed themselves up in the city and began to throw barrels of pitch down at us."
[[Then with both of our forces, this battle is as good as won.|Battle 2]]<img src="images/northbattle.jpg" />
You waste no time and prepare the march to the border town. Anyone deemed to weak or old to fight stays behind, though grudgingly. You order Erhart to stay behind to help tend to them.
"If you will lead your troops to battle, we shall ride beside you," says the scarred warrior, Corben, who you met earlier.
"I'll be grateful for your aid," you reply as the march begins. "Your arrows will be invaluable against Erenne."
Motivated by their desire to help defeat the enemy, the soldiers of Nerei now quicken their pace, ignoring their fatigue. You turn back and see the same look of determination on their faces, though the fear and apprehension is also there beneath the surface.
Finally you see the smoke still billowing up into the sky. You press on until the screams of war and the smell of burnt fields reach you. In the distance you can see several dozen riders rushing over to you.
"Corben!" a woman shouts urging her horse forward. "Thank the gods!"
When you meet them on the road, they take a few moments to catch their breaths and finally the same woman speaks. "We thought we had them beat. It was a small force and without shields they didn't stand a chance. We rained arrows down on most of them, but a few holed themselves up in the city and began to throw barrels of pitch down at us."
[[She notices you for the first time and you nod in greeting.|Battle]]<img src="images/northbattle.jpg" />
She glances questioningly at Corben. "They're soldiers from Nerei. They want to fight," he says simply.
The woman looks you once-over and nods. You realize that she must be the general leading these men.
"We need to break our way in," you say without hesitation. "We'll need your arrows to protect us against the enemy up on the towers."
"They're stalling," Julien says furiously from behind you. "They must be waiting for reinforcements. We have to defeat them quickly."
Your march is no longer to safety, but straight into danger. You know this is what you trained your whole life for. Before you know it you are at the gates, beating them down as arrows whiz above you preventing the enemy from dropping fire on your heads. Splinters fly and you hear cries of terror as you finally break through.
Your army decimates the remaining soldiers. They stood no chance. A few are captured and held for questioning.
As the captives are led away by Julien, the woman from before comes to congratulate you on the victory.
[[We defeated them together.|Freedom Fighters]]<img src="images/northmarshes.png" />
Day and night, mosquitos needle you to the point of madness. Even mother nature seems against you as warm rains assault you and slow your march north.
On day four, your supplies are nearly depleted and you are forced to ration what is left more and more.
When you stop to rest later that day, Erhart joins you on a giant tree stump by the side of the road. “Losing those supplies to Julien and the others was a huge blow...” he murmurs weakly. You notice for the first time how sickly he looks, pale beyond his normal coloring.
“Have you been eating?” you ask him with concern. “Yes... I have,” he responds quietly, but you can tell he is lying.
[[You do your best to reprimand him gently to take care of himself, but he simply nods absentmindedly.|Starving]]
<img src="images/northmarshes.png" />
The next day at daylight you find Erhart still asleep on the wet ground. He's always one of the first up, so you know immediately that something is wrong. You shake him but he does not stir. You check his pulse and feel it faint against your fingertips.
Senior Instructor Cress joins you on the ground next to him.
"He's starving," he says sadly. "He's been giving his rations to the younger recruits for days."
You feel angry at yourself for not realizing it sooner. You call for honey and water, and the trainee who brings it to you informs you this is the last of it. You need to find more supplies, but you ask yourself if stopping the march again is too great a risk.
[[Stop the march and search the area.|Inn]]
[[Press on and hope you come across aid.|Captured 3]]<img src="images/abandonedhome.png" />
Those who are strong enough, begin foraging the area for wild game and fruit.
You call on several cadets to join you and you set off with four horses to the west. You don't know where you're going exactly but there was talk at camp of an inn in the area. It's a shot in the dark, but you know you must take it. You fan out two riders at a time as the hours quickly tick by.
Near sunset you hear a cry in the distance and one of the cadets comes galloping towards you. There are tears in her eyes as she announces that the inn has been located.
The place is rundown and infested with flies. The front door is falling off its hinges and everything inside is thick with layers of dust. The hope you felt moments ago begins to die slowly. How long has this place been abandoned?
You step outside and rush to the back of the building where you find an attached larder. The relief rushes out of you and you nearly fall to your knees when you open the door and find food inside.
It's not what you hoped for, but it's enough to get you through another two days. Perhaps those that fled couldn't carry it all.
[[Grateful, you pack everything you can find and return to camp.|Arriving 6]]<img src="images/northmarshes.png" />
Erhart is placed on an empty supply cart and you continue on. You try to encourage the soldiers as much as you can, moving from the front to the back of the line, but it doesn't do much good.
A day and a half later you are completely out of food. It has been days since the rain stopped and even water has become scarce.
One by one you begin losing soldiers. First the oldest instructors succumb to their fatigue and starvation, then the weakest of the recruits. There is nothing you can do. You move on without even burying them, unable to expend any more energy on the effort. Somehow Erhart clings on.
But it's all for naught. Ten days after you escaped the Academy, you are captured by enemy forces. When you see the pikemen emerging from behind the trees, you rush to the back of the line where Erhart's lays on his cart.
[[You brandish your sword but your hand is trembling.|Enemy]]<img src="images/marshbattle.png" />
One of the pikemen draws near, his face impassive.
"You can barely hold up your sword... lay down your weapons and surrender."
You know he's right, but something inside you keeps rooted on the spot. Honor? Duty? Pride?
[[Surrender peacefully.|Prisoner]]
[[Attack.|Death]]
<img src="images/marshbattle.jpg" />
You rush forward with suprising speed. The frustration and anger that has built up over the journey fuels your movements. You're transported back to the Academy training grounds, running drills with the Commander.
You deftly knock a thrust aside with ease and see the pikeman's face contorted with surprise. Before he can react you slash downword with both hands and see his severed forearm hit the ground. His screams are caught in his throat when you bury your sword into his heart. He hits the floor with a thud.
Seconds later you feel hot blood rush down your stomach. As you glance down you see the tip of another enemy's lance sticking out from there.
Everything rushes out of you with your life's blood--- the pain, hunger, the disappointment.
As you gasp your last breath on the dirt road, you manage to speak your last words.
[[Forgive me...|End]]<img src="images/marshbattle.png" />
The sword falls from your hands and you drop everything. You hear screams of terror and pain around you, but they sound like an echo of time in your buzzing head.
How did it get to this point?
You're grabbed roughly by the enemy and shoved to your knees. The ropes they use to bind your hands coil around you and tear at your skin. But you don't feel it.
Your eyes are fixed on the figure of your friend, lying still, unaware of what is happening around him.
Your vision is obscured by the sack that is placed over it.
[[Then there is only darkness.|Ending 4]]
<img src="images/prison.png" />
You wake at first light and drag yourself up against the cold stone wall.
You haven't stepped outside your cell since the day you were brough to the Spire. A few weeks later, you saw the guards dragging the lifeless body of Commander Gunnar out into the yard. You had heard them torturing him for hours and each scream tugged at the last threads of your sanity. Erhart lived only for a few months after you were captured. He would whisper to you in the dark when the lazy guard would fall asleep.
You don't know how you've held on. You have no idea what has happened to your country since you were captured. You're not sure you even care anymore.
But the memories of the Academy always return to you. You think of the Commander, and of Erhart, and your eyes fill with tears.
[[You refuse to forget.|End]]
<img src="images/northbattle.jpg" />
"You led these men to victory," Alana insists. "Despite the trials you went through to get here, you all fought with valor."
"We fled with the hope of joining you in fighting our common enemy," you reply frankly.
She looks around at the people of Caliz who slowly begin to emerge from their homes and hiding places. Their frightened faces turn to relief when they see the slain enemy being carried out of the city.
"We've done everything we could to stay out of this war. No longer. Urgos has brought the fight to our doorstep and we must act."
You smile and clasp hands with Alana.
[[You don't know what the future holds for Nerei or the Principalities, but you've taken the first step towards liberation.|Ending 6]]
<img src="images/village.jpg" />
Two years later...
"I don't have a lot of time. Julien has secured a victory at the border of Almeida. But it came with a cost. Many were injured, they need me there." Erhart is scrambling to gather his supplies. His two assistants help him pack everything into the carriage that waits outside your tent.
"Although we need your skills here too, you always know what's best," you reply with a grin. He laughs and shakes his head.
"Just don't forget to take care of yourself," you add as he climbs into the carriage and salutes you. You turn from the retreating carriage and look out into the military camp.
You are in the thick of it now. That first battle truly was the beginning of it all. You've lost count of how many other battles you've seen, how many close calls.
But here you stand, with the force of the Principalities behind you, united.
[[The war rages on with no end in sight.|End]]<img src="images/northbattle.jpg" />
She glances around at her men. One of them shrugs, another nods. "My name is Alana, these are my men."
You nod in greeting and look once more into the distance. The fires the enemy ignited were too small to create a real blaze and they've puttered out.
"We need to break our way in," you say without hesitation. "We'll need your arrows to protect us against the enemy up on the towers."
"They're stalling," Julien says furiously from behind you. "They must be waiting for reinforcements. We have to defeat them quickly."
Your march is no longer to safety, but straight into danger. You know this is what you trained your whole life for. Before you know it you are at the gates, beating them down as arrows whiz above you preventing the enemy from dropping fire on your heads. Splinters fly and you hear cries of terror as you finally break through.
Your army decimates the remaining soldiers. They stood no chance. A few are captured and held for questioning.
As the captives are led away by Julien, the woman from before comes to congratulate you on the victory.
[[We defeated them together.|Freedom Fighters]]<img src="images/cart.jpg" />
Julien looks at you with disgust and stalks away. The men on horseback remain impassive, but you can sense that something has turned.
"We ride to battle," the scarred man says. "You may wait here until our return. These gates will open to no one but us."
Without another word, they ride away and you're left waiting.
You settle your camp for the night on the tall grass of the plains. The air is still tense from before, and everyone avoids your gaze as you walk by. You steel yourself against their bitterness and anger. You did what you thought was right.
In the middle of the night you hear galloping horses approach. The scarred man, Corben returns with only a few survivors. You learn that while they attempted to liberate the border town, reinforcements from Erenne arrived. It was a devestating defeat. Only a dozen survived.
"We have to prepare," Corben says in the darkness. "Capturing the border town was only the beginning."
[[The days ahead will become a blur, but the Flight from Nerei will be forever burned in your mind.|Ending 9]] <img src="images/forestend.jpg" />
Two years later...
The forest is thick with smoke but still you wait.
You look around and see the same look of anticipation on everyone's faces. Nearby Julien creeps forward, his body taut and ready to strike. He is now battle-scarred and his hate for Erenne has grown twice-fold. Though you may try to deny it, you have those same feelings buried deep within you. After everything you've seen Urgos and his men do, it's impossible not to hate.
Erenne had the upper hand from the start, starting with the battle at the border town. Since then you've known many defeats and have been pushed back north and further north.
This only served to unite the Principalities. Though you've known mostly defeat, you feel the tide turning each day. Perhaps it's not too late to take back your home, though it will surely come with a price.
You glance behind you and spot Erhart, signaling the rest of the medics to hang back. Finally you hear screams of panic as the enemy begins to realize their supplies are on fire.
[[You wait and let them come to you, your sword ready.|End]]
<img src="images/cart.jpg" />
With Erhart slowly recovering you make it to the gates of Lucar two days later, completely spent.
The city is in chaos. They are preparing for war.
You're informed that Erenne has invaded and captured a border town to the east. Their next target is Lucar. They offer you food and water, but at a price. You and every able-bodied soldier must join the fight.
"We can't win this alone. If we lose here, there's no hope for you either," the scarred man at the city gates informs you.
You set up camp and rest as much as possible. Outside your tents, the sounds of preparation are enough to drive you mad.
[[You prepare yourself for what's to come.|Ending 10]]
<img src="images/forestend.jpg" />
Two years later...
The forest is thick with smoke but still you wait.
You look around and see the same look of anticipation on everyone's faces. The air feels electric with rage. Though you may try to deny it, you have those same feelings buried deep within you. After everything you've seen Urgos and his men do, it's impossible not to hate.
Erenne had the upper hand from the start, starting with the battle at the border town and the devestating defeat at Lucar. Since then you've been pushed back north and further north.
This only served to unite the Principalities. Though you've known mostly defeat, you feel the tide turning each day.
You glance behind you and spot Erhart, signaling the rest of the medics to hang back. Finally you hear screams of panic as the enemy begins to realize their supplies are on fire.
[[You wait and let them come to you, your sword ready.|End]]
<img src="images/rainyforest.jpg" />
The weeping man thanks you for your help and you walk away in search of the Instructor.
You find him alone near a supply tent. He is looking at your limited supplies, but his eyes look distant.
"Instructor Cress," you call to him, snapping him back into the moment.
"$name," he mutters, his eyes focusing on your face. He takes one look the expression on your face and dissolves into bitter tears. "I-I'm sorry... I didn't mean for this. For any of it."
You place a hand on his shoulder and give him a moment to compose himself. "I know," you say reassuringly. "We've all made mistakes on this journey. We can still come back from it."
He shakes his head and wipes his tears. He looks so old, so fragile.
"I can't do this, $name. I thought I could, but I can't." His hands are trembling and his swollen eyes plead with you.
"P-Please... do what I could not."
[[You swallow hard, remembering Commander Gunnar's orders. You nod.|On the Road 2]]<img src="images/grasslands.jpg" />
Three days later, with supplies running low and the sun beating down on you, the march slows down to a snail's pace.
Erhart joins you when you stop to rest near a lone tree. "I never realized how hot Nerei could be," he says, taking big gulps from his water pouch. You can only hope you'll come across some body of water to replenish your supplies soon.
Julien walks by and you hear him shouting orders to continue the march. He is riding you all hard, and you wonder if even the most fit in the army can keep up with this pace much longer.
Nearing nightfall, you finally reach some respite from the sun. The march takes you through a sparse forest with small but hardy trees.
Suddenly, near the front of the line you hear screams of panic and anger rise into the air. You think you hear Erheart's panicked voice.
[[Run to where the sounds are coming from.|Under Attack]]
[[Cautiously approach the commotion.|Under Attack]]
[[Hang back and wait for information.|Hang Back]]<img src="images/cart.jpg" />
Erhart's furious face softens suddenly. You look into his brown eyes and see understanding there.
"I know, $name... I know."
He sighs and hands you a glass of water. "What now?" he asks, managing a small smile.
You don't know. The only thing you can think is of your failure. Your fighting days are over, before they even truly started.
[[The days ahead will be come a blur, but the Flight from Nerei will be forever burned in your mind.|Ending 11]] <img src="images/refugee.jpg" />
Two years later...
You reach down and pass the straw bedroll to the man who waits in the queue. You smile at him, but he averts his gaze in shame. You've gotten used to that, but it pains you all the same.
'That was me once,' you think to yourself. It took a long time for you to pull yourself out of that dark place. You were consumed by the loss of the life you once had. Your dreams were plagued with visions of Commander Gunnar looking at you with shame and disappointment.
But Erhart never left your side. He pulled you up and helped you see that life was still worth living.
Your purpose is to help those effected most by war : the wounded and the refugees seeking safe harbor.
[[Until the war is over, you will fight on, the only way you can now.|End]]<img src="images/desertprisoner.jpg" />
You run out of food two days later and are forced to scavenged and hunt to survive.
Your hope is rekindled when you reach the East Mountain Path. You know this means the border to Erenne is just on the other side. The group decides to stop for the night.
You're woken roughly in the night by Julien who is shaking you. "We have to move." he whispers in the darkness "Our night patrol spotted the enemy not far from here. They are looking for us."
[[There is no moon in the sky tonight, which helps you escape the area in near total darkness.|Take Over]]<img src="images/desertprisoner.jpg" />
You run out of food two days later and are forced to scavenged and hunt to survive.
Your hope is rekindled when you reach the East Mountain Path. You know this means the border to Erenne is just on the other side. The group decides to stop for the night.
You're woken roughly in the night by Julien who is shaking you. "We have to move." he whispers in the darkness "Our night patrol spotted the enemy not far from here. They are looking for us."
[[There is no moon in the sky tonight, which helps you escape the area in near total darkness.|Take Over 2]]<img src="images/outsidedeserttown.jpg" />
On the other side of the mountain, you pass through a valley with a river running through it. The fresh water and fish do wonders for your morale. But you know it won't last and you have to keep moving.
Somehow you survive off the land long enough to come across a small town in the middle of the desert.
"We have to take this place over," Julien says in a tone that brooks no argument. Despite your misgivings, you agree. If the enemy has returned to Erenne to search for you, at least you'll be behind walls where you can make a stand, and not out in the open. The town is not heavily guarded and you take over without much resistance.
Half a week goes by without any sign of the enemy. You start to get comfortable and even the townfolk seem to trust you a little more, considering their situation.
But Julien's goal has not changed. You realize you are bound to him.
[[From here out, you have to make sure he does not lead the troops into distruction.|Ending 14]]<img src="images/outsidedeserttown.jpg" />
On the other side of the mountain, you pass through a valley with a river running through it. The fresh water and fish do wonders for your morale. But you know it won't last and you have to keep moving.
Somehow you survive off the land long enough to come across a small town in the middle of the desert.
"We have to take this place over," Julien says in a tone that brooks no argument. Despite your misgivings, you agree. If the enemy has returned to Erenne to search for you, at least you'll be behind walls where you can make a stand, and not out in the open. The town is not heavily guarded and you take it over without much resistance.
Half a week goes by without any sign of the enemy. You start to get comfortable and even the townfolk seem to trust you a little more, considering their situation.
But Julien's goal has not changed. You realize you are bound to him.
[[From here out, you have to make sure he does not lead the troops into distruction.|Ending 12]]<img src="images/desertending.jpg" />
Two years later...
You crouch down behind the rocks and peer out into the distance.
"Twelve hundred pikemen, maybe more," you whisper to the soldier beside you. After two years in the wilderness, no one uses their titles anymore. You are all 'soldiers' on equal footing. Julien, however, still holds power over most of you. He has led you all to many victories, but not without casualties and some marked failures.
You've adapted guerilla tactics and with the help of the people of Erenne, you've been a constant thorn in King Urgos's side. He has yet to discover that his own people are conspiring against him and helping you fight his troops.
Your plan to save Commander Gunnar never came to fruition. You learned that he had died just days after being taken captive. That fact still pains you. You think of him and your friend Erhart often.
But you try to focus on the present. On helping destroy Urgos from within.
[[Only that wish gives you peace at night.|End]]<img src="images/desertending.jpg" />
Two years later...
You crouch down behind the rocks and peer out into the distance. The hot breeze blows through the area, picking up a dust devil.
"Twelve hundred pikemen, maybe more," you whisper to Erhart beside you. After two years in the wilderness, no one uses their titles anymore. You are all 'soldiers' on equal footing. Julien, however, still holds power over most of you. He has led you all to many victories, but not without casualties and some marked failures.
You've adapted guerilla tactics and with the help of the people of Erenne, you've been a constant thorn in King Urgos's side. He has yet to discover that his own people are conspiring against him and helping you fight his troops. You've come to rely on Erhart and the rest of the soldiers like family.
Your plan to save Commander Gunnar never came to fruition. You learned that he had died just days after being taken captive. That fact still pains you.
But you try to focus on the present. On helping destroy Urgos from within.
[[Only that wish gives you peace at night.|End]]<img src="images/office.jpg" />
Commander Gunnar looks at you and shakes his head. You see in his eyes gratitude for your concern, and perhaps sadness at having to take this step. "There is no one else," he replies finally.
"The prince is refusing an audience, but I convinced him to allow me to attend in his stead. I will be his representative, this way at least we can hope to avoid a true affront to King Urgos." he takes a deep breath, gathering himself. "I must speak to him myself... come to some form of agreement."
You look over at Erhart who has fallen silent in contemplation. Both of you seem to be thinking the same thing.
[[We have allies who would aid us though, if it came to that.|Allies]]
[[What of Mercina? What's their role in this?|Mercina]]
[[We should be preparing for war, then. It will surely come to that!|Prepare]]<img src="images/title2.png" />
[[START|Intro]]