Chapter 15: Noble Lady of Caelin



Credits: Charpig

Narrator:
In Laus, Erik tells Eliwood of a plan. A plot to use Laus as starting ground in a rebellion against Ostia. Eliwood needs proof to believe these accusations, and so he and his allies pursue Darin, the fleeing marquess of Laus. Where that chase would lead, Eliwood could not have known.

(Chapter title is displayed – Chapter 15: Noble Lady of Caelin)

(Laus Castle)

Hector:
“Blast! Where on earth has that snake Darin gone?”

Eliwood:
“I doubt he’s left Lycia yet, but… Hector…it’s been five days. The death of Marquess Santaruz… Our attack on Laus Castle… Word of these things must have reached Lord Uther by now. And yet he shows no sign of action… Why?”

Hector:
“I’m sure he has his reasons. My brother has other concerns tying his hands right now.”

Eliwood:
“What do you mean?”

Hector:
“It’s Bern. We’ve received disturbing reports over the past few months. King Desmond is behaving oddly. If he sees even the slightest crack in Lycia’s defenses, we believe he’ll invade with all of Bern’s might behind him. My brother has only recently become marquess, as well as head of the Lycian League. He can’t allow another country to see weakness or discord.”

Eliwood:
“He has to present the face of stability and strength, is that it?”

Hector:
“Yes. It seems every country has a spy working in Ostia right now. They all want to assess the new marquess’s temperament and skill. If they sense anything wrong, word will spread like wildfire.”

Eliwood:
“Hector, you’re the marquess’s brother… Would not being at his side be seen as something “wrong”?”

Hector:
“The marquess’s brother is a well-known lout. If I WERE at court, they’d sense something wrong.”

Eliwood:
“You’re not too proud of that reputation, are you?”

Hector:
“Not in the least.”

Marcus:
“Lord Eliwood! Lord Hector!”

Eliwood:
“What is it, Marcus? Have you heard something?”

Marcus:
“Yes, my lord. A messenger from the east! Castle Caelin has fallen to a surprise attack from Marquess Laus!”

Eliwood:
“Castle Caelin!?”

Hector:
“They’ve struck again.”

Eliwood:
“Lord Hausen… Is he unharmed?”

Marcus:
“We’ve no word on Lord Hausen or his granddaughter, the lady Lyndis.”

Eliwood:
“I never expected them to attack Caelin… Lord Hausen… Lyndis…”

Marcus:
“Lord Eliwood, Lord Hector… What should we do?”

Hector:
“They might still be alive, right? There’s only one thing we can do!”

Eliwood:
“We ride to their aid! There may still be time!”

(Castle Caelin)

Kent:
“Milady, I’ve returned, and I have brought news. Laus soldiers are scattered from the castle to the edge of this forest. There must be at least 50 soldiers!”

Sain:
“Are you sure about this, milady? We barely escaped… Going back to the castle would mean almost certain death.”

Lyn:
“My grandfather is in the castle. I left the castle on his orders, but… I can’t leave him in there alone!”

Wil:
“The numbers we face… Rescuing Lord Hausen will be no easy task.”

Sain:
“I wonder if we can expect any reinforcements.”

Kent:
“I overheard some of the Laus soldiers talking. They claim that Lord Eliwood invaded Laus and drove them out.”

Lyn:
“Eliwood? Why would he attack Laus?”

Kent:
“It gets even more interesting… Not only did Marquess Laus abandon his castle, but he also left his son, Erik, behind when he fled here to Caelin.”

Sain:
“That’s despicable! He abandoned his own son?”

Lyn:
“But at least we know Eliwood is in Laus. We might be able to ask him for help. …Assuming there were a way to contact him.”

Wil:
“If we are to avoid being caught, the best path would be through the forest. Shall I go?”

Lyn:
“I suspect you’re right. Horses cannot move well in woods… It’ll take you a while, but you can travel lightly…”

Florina:
“Lady Lyndis! I’ll go! I can fly above the forest. I can be in Laus faster than anyone else.”

Lyn:
“Florina? You can’t do this on your own! It’s not possible!”

Florina:
“Thanks to my time here, I’m no longer as timid around men as I used to be. And I’ve met Lord Eliwood before. I’m sure I can do this on my own.”

Lyn:
“It will be terribly dangerous… You understand, don’t you?”

Florina:
“Yes. But… I promised myself I would become braver for you. I’m not the weak little Florina I used to be. I’ll be fine. Trust me.”

Lyn:
“You’ve convinced me. The job’s yours, Florina. But you must promise me that you won’t try anything impossible!”

Florina:
“Yes, my lady. Farewell!”

(Florina takes off)

Sain:
“Did you hear our meek Florina? She sounded most forceful! Beautiful!”

Kent:
“She’s become a full-fledged pegasus knight.”

Lyn:
“Yes, she has.”

Wil:
“All for you, Lady Lyndis. That’s quite gallant.”

Lyn:
“When we lived on the plains, I was always her protector. I know I shouldn’t feel sad, and yet…”

(Laus soldiers spot Florina)

Soldier:
“Commander Bauker! There’s something in the southern skies.”

Bauker:
“Is that…a pegasus knight? Where do you suppose she’s going? It doesn’t matter. We’ve been told not to let anyone out of Caelin. Archers! Advance! Bring her down!”

(Hector’s group shows up, Florina approaches)

Florina:
“To reach Laus, I must go over the forest…and fly north. Then, I’ll have to… Wait! Who are those people? They fly no banner, and yet… Ah! That man in the lead! It’s Lord Eliwood! He’s come to Caelin’s aid! That’s wonderful. I have to tell him where Lady Lyndis is waiting!”

Hector:
“I’ve spotted the enemy… Why are their archers advancing? They’re aiming at something up high.”

Marcus:
“Lord Eliwood, look! Up there! A pegasus knight!”

(Florina swoops down on Eliwood)

Florina:
“Lord Eliwood!”

Eliwood:
“Could it really be… Florina, is that you?”

Florina:
“Yes! I’m Lady Lyndis’s…”

Eliwood:
“Florina! Fly lower!”

Florina:
“Wha–Oh! Aaaaaaah!!!”

(An arrow whizzes by)

Eliwood:
“Florina!!!”

Hector:
“Oooh!”

Florina:
“…… Ah…”

Eliwood:
“Can you hear me? Florina?”

Florina:
“Lord Eliwood? …I…”

Eliwood:
“Those archers almost hit you. You avoided the arrows, but you lost your balance and fell.”

Florina:
“I’m sorry. I’m such trouble…”

Eliwood:
“I’m just glad you’re not hurt. Tell me, Florina, weren’t you with Lyndis?”

Florina:
“Yes! Lord Eliwood, Lady Lyndis is beyond that forest. She’s waiting for a chance to assault the castle.”

Eliwood:
“She’s what!? Ah… Still, it’s good to hear she’s safe.”

Florina:
“She’s fine. However, Lord Hausen’s been captured. He’s still in the castle.”

Eliwood:
“I see. Let’s go then!”

(At the enemy troops)

Bauker:
“Someone get up there and scour the area! I want to know if we brought down that pegasus knight! If she’s still breathing, make her stop!”

Soldier:
“My lord! To the west! We’re under attack! It’s the Pheraen noble, Eliwood!”

Bauker:
“He’s here, eh? Now’s our chance to show Marquess Laus our loyalty. Our opponents are a motley band of fools! They’re no match for us!”

(Preparations screen is entered)

(End preparations)

(Start of battle)

(Visiting the southeast village)

Man:
“Ah, you there! You’re Caelin knights, aren’t you? Marquess Laus’s man, the one called Bauker… He seems like a gentle man, but his skill is near legendary. Do you carry weapons suited to battling knights? Take this if you please.”

(Got a Heavy spear)

(Visiting the southeast house)

Woman:
“Different shops carry different items for sale. If you find something you’ve never seen, you should buy it, just to try. By the way, have you been to the local shop? If not, you should drop in. My daughter runs the place.”

(Visiting the southwest village)

Woman:
“You’re all Caelin knights, are you not? What? Lord Hausen’s still in the castle? Oh… This was to be for our daughter’s wedding, but… Here. Please help Marquess Caelin. Our lord needs rescuing.”

(Got a Red gem)

(Visiting the house above the shops)

Man:
“Weapons are only as strong as the material they’re made of. Most of the weapons you have now are made of iron, right? Iron is a poor match for steel, and poorer still for silver! Slim weapons are weaker than iron ones, but easier to wield. Good weapons are expensive, but they’re worth the cost.”

(Visiting the northwest house)

Woman:
“Your company seems close-knit. It’s vital to have friends who support and assist you, isn’t it? You have to be close to someone if you really want to get along. Stay close to those with whome you’re compatible to strengthen your bond. A reading by a fortune-teller will tell you who you’re compatible with. But don’t become so concerned about it that you forget to fight!”

(Lyn talks to Matthew)

Lyn:
“Hey! You! You’re–“

Matthew:
“Um… No, I’m not. You’ve got the wrong fellow… Bye now!”

Lyn:
“Stop right there, Matthew!”

Matthew:
“Saw right through my disguise, didn’t you, Lady Lyndis?”

Lyn:
“What are you talking about? How could I not recognize you? You’re…you!”

Matthew:
“Yes, but I had to at least try to fool you. Being memorable is not the best quality for a spy to have.”

Lyn:
“Spy? I thought you were a thief?”

Matthew:
“Oops!”

Lyn:
“What’s this about? Come on, tell me!”

Matthew:
“I can’t… It’s a… secret.”

Lyn:
“A secret? Would you have your mouth sealed if you spoke it?”

Matthew:
“You’re very knowledgeable!”

Lyn:
“Very well, I’ll ask no more questions. If you have any trouble, though, you can talk to me. I’m sure I’ll be able to help.”

Matthew:
“Ah…Lady Lyndis? I believe that you are the one currently in trouble. You’re either generous to a fault, or…something else altogether.”

(Lyn talks to Eliwood)

Eliwood:
“Lyndis!”

Lyn:
“Eliwood?! You made it!”

Eliwood:
“Florina told us where you were. We’re here to help.”

Lyn:
“Thank you!”

(Visiting the middle house)

Child:
“Are you one of Eliwood’s soldiers? You have that look about you. The villagers are saying that you can defeat an enemy in the blink of an eye. When I get older, I’m going to be that swift! Just you wait and see!”

(Lyn talks to Hector)

Lyn:
“Are you an ally, too?”

Hector:
“Yep, that’s what it looks like.”

Lyn:
“In that case, I have something to tell you.”

Hector:
“We’re a bit busy now. Save it for later.”

Lyn:
“What? Hold on! Wait just a minute!”

(Lyn talks to Florina)

Lyn:
“Florina!”

Florina:
“Lady Lyndis!”

Lyn:
“You’re unharmed! I’m so relieved. Really!”

Florina:
“Was my service at all helpful?”

Lyn:
“Of course it was! You saved us! Thank you!”

Florina:
“Tee hee! I’ll do even better next time!”

Lyn:
“I’m counting on it.”

(Lyn talks to Erk)

Erk:
“Lady Lyndis, please stay back. I’ll serve as the advance guard.”

Lyn:
“Hm? You… Is that you, Erk?”

Erk:
“Yes, my lady. A pleasure to see you.”

Lyn:
“Erk, why are you here in Caelin?”

Erk:
“For reasons of my own, I’ve joined up with Eliwood’s company. We’re here to rescue Caelin. Please, Lady Lyndis, would you kindly withdraw?”

Lyn:
“My granddfather is in the castle. I’m not going to retreat from this battle!”

Erk:
“You might be a noblewoman, but you haven’t changed at all. Very well, at least stay near me. I’ll be your escort.”

Lyn:
“Thank you, Erk.”

(Lyn talks to Dorcas)

Lyn:
“Dorcas! Dorcas, is that you?”

Dorcas:
“Glad you’re well, Lyn.”

Lyn:
“What are you doing in Caelin?”

Dorcas:
“I’m working for a Pheraen nobleman. When talk came of Caelin, he gre worried about you. Looks like we got here in time…”

Lyn:
“Yes, thank you. However, my grandfather is still in the castle.”

Dorcas:
“I understand. Let’s do what we can do.”

Lyn:
“Dorcas? Is Natalie in Lycia with you?”

Dorcas:
“Uh-huh. We moved there after I saw it firsthand with you. She’s waiting for me now in Pherae.”

Lyn:
“Really? That’s good. I’d enjoy seeing her again sometime.”

Dorcas:
“She feels the same way about you. Someday… When you’ve free time, will you come for a visit?”

Lyn:
“Yes, of course! Once the fighting’s done, I’ll definitely come see you.”

(Lyn talks to Serra)

Serra:
“Ah! Lyn! I’m so happy to see you safe!”

Lyn:
“Serra? What are you doing in Caelin?”

Serra:
“I’m with Lord Hector. We’ve come to save you!”

Lyn:
“Hector?”

Serra:
“Oh, come now! Lord Hector! Marquess Ostia’s younger brother! He’s a good friend of Lord Eliwood’s, by the way.”

Lyn:
“Oh…I see. Well, thank you for coming, Serra. I’m glad to see you again.”

Serra:
“It’s no trouble at all! When a dear friend’s in trouble, you have to help. It’s a rule!”

Lyn:
“A dear friend?”

Serra:
“Don’t worry! Social positions never bother me. I know we’ll get along fine, Lyn!”

(Versus Bauker)

Bauker:
“Prepare to fall before your master!”

(Bauker dies)

Bauker:
“We’ve been….defeated? Such a shame…”

(After map is cleared)

Eliwood:
“Command Bauker… He was a fierce enemy. Lyndis, once we’ve defeated the remaining foe, the castle’s yours.”

Lyn:
“Thank you, Eliwood. If not for your help, I don’t know where I’d be right now.”

Eliwood:
“All of this happened because we routed Lord Darin at Laus. It’s only right that we help.”

Lyn:
“You explained your motives to me, Eliwood. This is about your father. I would do the same thing in your position. What happened in Caelin is not your fault.”

Eliwood:
“Thank you. However, until your castle is yours again, I take responsibility.”

Lyn:
“I understand. Thank you.”

Hector:
“Eliwood! We’re moving into the castle!”

Eliwood:
“All right.”

Lyn:
“Who’s that?”

Eliwood:
“Oh, yes. Let me introduce you. Hector!”

Hector:
“What?”

Eliwood:
“This is Lyndis. She’s Lord Hausen’s granddaughter. Lyndis, this is Hector. He’s Lord Uther’s brother.”

Lyn:
“His brother? Really?”

Hector:
“Yes.”

Lyn:
“I was watching the way he fights… He’s not like you, Eliwood. He’s somewhat like my own knights, but different still. He relies so much on power. It’s like he’s never been…”

Hector:
“I haven’t. I taught myself how to fight.”

Lyn:
“I’ve no issue with that, but the way you swing that axe around… You’re a threat to your allies! You should be more watchful.”

Hector:
“What did you say?”

Eliwood:
“Lyndis? What’s come over you?”

Lyn:
“Hm? Oh…I… My apologies. I didn’t intend to seem so critical.”

Hector:
“……”

Eliwood:
“Granted, Hector’s style may be a tad dangerous, but… There’s no one I depend on more. You may think him careless, but he’s always aware of his surroundings.”

Hector:
“The more you praise me, the less worthy I sound.”

Eliwood:
“Lyndis, once you fight alongside Hector, I’m sure you’ll understand.”

Lyn:
“I’m sure you’re right. I apologize, Hector. I’m honored to have your help.”

Hector:
“No apology necessary. I’m glad I can lend a hand.”

Eliwood:
“Let’s go inside, shall we?”

Lyn:
“Mark! Is it really you, Mark? So good to see you! Have you been well?”

Kent:
“Well met, Mark. Good to see you again.”

Sain:
“Well! This really is a pleasant surprise!”

Wil:
“Hello, Mark! Has it really been a year?”

Lyn:
“What’s wrong, Florina? You needn’t hide back there.”

Florina:
“Um… Nice to see you again. I don’t suppose you… Do you…remember me?”

Lyn:
“Everyone who remained in Caelin speaks of you fondly. We’re always saying “I wonder where Mark is…” Yes…you’re right. This isn’t the best time to catch up. We’re here to rescue my grandfather. Mark, will you help me again?”

(Inside Castle Caelin)

Darin:
“Ri… Ridiculous… Even Bauker?”

Hausen:
“Lord Darin, it’s time to give up this madness. Further resistance is meaningless. For what you’ve done, you may never be forgiven, but it’s not too late to try. Tell Eliwood everything. He’ll intervene with Marquess Ostia on your behalf…”

Darin:
“I…I’ve…lost…”

Hausen:
“Hurry! Eliwood will be here in no time. Let me speak for you. Gurr… Guaaaa!!”

Ephidel:
“None of that now. Marquess Laus needs no troublesome advice.”

Darin:
“L-Lord Ephidel?”

Ephidel:
“There is no turning back for you now. You should know that. First, Marquess Santaruz… and now Marquess Caelin. Both deaths are on your head.”

Darin:
“What? It was by your hand that they both died! I-I never asked for this.”

Ephidel:
“Yes, I killed them… for you.”

Darin:
“To…trap me?”

Ephidel:
“Don’t be absurd. I follow my master’s orders. My only wish is to deliver your dreams to you. The crown of a united Lycia…. And once that is done, dominion over the entire continent. Is that not what you desire?”

Darin:
“… … … Yes… Yes, of course. That dream IS still worth a few sacrifices, isn’t it?”

Ephidel:
“You’re exactly right. Our plans may have gone drastically awry, but as long as we have the master’s power behind us, we cannot be defeated. We’d do well to leave now, before those meddlesome worms arrive. You will leave everyone from Laus behind. We will use them to delay our foe.”

Darin:
“Everyone… My soldiers? But…who will protect me?”

Ephidel:
“The Black Fang and I will more than suffice for that task. There is nothing else you need, I assure you.”

Darin:
“Yes…I…I see that now. Where do we go from here?”

Ephidel:
“To the Dragon’s Gate… Our master awaits us there. The master has informed me our hostage may be all we need. If all goes well, we may be able to perform the ceremony with him alone.”

Darin:
“Oh! Is that so? I suppose we’ve nothing to worry about.”

Ephidel:
“That is correct. Now please, begin your retreat. I have two or three orders to give, then I will be right behind you.”

(Darin leaves)

Ephidel:
“Pathetic imbecile… Leila? Where are you?”

Leila:
“I’m here.”

Ephidel:
“While Eliwood is occupied, finish off Marquess Caelin and hide the body. The enemy will waste precious time searching for him.”

Leila:
“As you command…”

Ephidel:
“You know, you’ve only been with the Black Fang a short while. However, you are quite skilled… I look forward to watching you.”

Leila:
“Yes, sir.”