linkDimitrivolume_up
It's good to see you safely back, Rodrigue. I understand matters have begun to settle down in the west.
linkRodriguevolume_up
They have. It took more than a few lengthy inquiries, but I believe we've finally excised the foul seed of discord from our soil.
linkRodriguevolume_up
And the changes at the top of Houses Gideon, Mateus, and Elidure should ensure it never takes root again.
linkAshevolume_up
So they're keeping their territories, then? I would've expected us to remove them completely after what they did.
linkDeduevolume_up
Such is easier said than done. Our prior situation with House Kleiman took time as well.
linkRodriguevolume_up
Yes. Replacing the head of a territory always brings dissenters crawling out of the woodwork to oppose it—be they nobles or commoners.
linkFelixvolume_up
At least now we won't have to worry about our land descending into chaos behind us.
linkFelixvolume_up
We can't just keep repeating the same mistakes. I must say, though, I'm surprised this all went as smoothly as it did.
linkRodriguevolume_up
I did use to be the eminent Duke Fraldarius, remember? I have just a bit of experience with these things.
linkFelixvolume_up
Hmph. In any case, we must turn our gaze eastward. How's the Alliance holding up?
linkDimitrivolume_up
According to Gustave's report, Claude is holding out for the perfect opportunity to advance his army.
linkDimitrivolume_up
Naturally, they don't favor their chances in a head-on clash with the famed Count Bergliez.
linkDimitrivolume_up
So for the time being they intend to feign a deadlock, and slowly dwindle away the enemy forces.
linkRodriguevolume_up
It seems the decision to reclaim the monastery was a shrewd one, then. It's our best path forward.
linkShezvolume_up
I know we're slated to advance on Hevring territory, but shouldn't we hold off till the Alliance can come help us, too?
linkShezvolume_up
I know we're slated to advance on Hevring territory, but shouldn't we hold off till the Alliance can come help us, too?
linkDimitrivolume_up
No. On the contrary, if we can show our individual might warrants attention, the Empire will have no choice but to dispatch more troops west.
linkDimitrivolume_up
Which should in turn ease the burden on the Alliance and their army. Claude and I agreed to as much.
linkFelixvolume_up
The real question is whether we can even trust him. It's impossible to tell, if you ask me.
linkAnnettevolume_up
If anything, he might be trying to wear us down. Soften us up so he can beat the stuffing out of us later.
linkIngridvolume_up
I doubt he would do something like that. At least, not in the midst of pursuing the same goal.
linkIngridvolume_up
But you're right—Claude's tricky to pin down. You can never really tell what he's plotting.
linkMercedesvolume_up
I don't believe we can be too cautious here. We should consider every possible angle.
linkDimitrivolume_up
Agreed. But if the Alliance does try anything, Gustave and the Knights of Seiros should be more than enough to thwart their plans.
linkDimitrivolume_up
Now, though, we march on. Ready your units.
linkRodriguevolume_up
So we finally take aim at the Empire in earnest.
linkDimitrivolume_up
Yes. We must finish this swiftly, for the sake of all those caught in the middle.
linkRodriguevolume_up
Hm. If you don't mind me asking, Your Majesty— do you have it within you to topple the emperor?
linkRodriguevolume_up
I speak not of military prowess, nor the strength of our army. No, I speak of your emotions.
linkDimitrivolume_up
Now, seeing as the Empire was involved in the Tragedy of Duscur, there is still much I must ask of her.
linkDimitrivolume_up
In a way, she and I are no different. Starting wars of our own volition, sending countless innocent lives to the feet of the goddess.
linkDimitrivolume_up
However noble one's reasoning may be, a deed like that cannot go unpunished.
linkDimitrivolume_up
And if she refuses to yield, then as a king—and one seeking revenge, at that...I will take her life.
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