Difference between revisions of "CampaignDialogue:L"

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==Death Dialogue==
 
==Death Dialogue==
 
===Baldras===
 
===Baldras===
'''Baldras:''' Tell my wife... that I loved her!
+
I'm coming... Erwen...
  
 
===Harper===
 
===Harper===
'''Harper:''' Unngh... Now our people may never be free...
+
'''Harper:''' Unngh...
  
===Relnan===
+
'''Baldras:''' Harper, no!
'''Relnan:''' I am finished... will we ever be free?
+
 
 +
===Relana===
 +
I'm finished...
  
 
===Lord Maddock===
 
===Lord Maddock===
'''Lord Maddock:''' How can this be? We have lost.
+
How can this be?
  
==Generic Defeat==
+
===Helicrom===
''Narrator:''' They returned to their village to find it destroyed, with those who fought left dead and the few survivors born away to unguessable fates. It was a bitter doom, but as Asheviere's grip tightened they would live to see worse.
+
This is the end for me...
 +
 
 +
==Scenario 1: The Raid==
 +
===Story Text===
 +
From the journal of Baldras, 21, Scatterseed, 501 YW.
  
==Miscelanious==
+
Months... seven months it's been since the Crown did send a single guard here to help us. This Garard II be a pompous stinker, even worser than his pa! Us of these border towns Delwyn and Dallben already be poor and needy, yet alls 'His Majesty' can think of is tax, tax, tax, takin' all our hard earned gold from us. Then he uses our gold to provoke more wars with more orcs just for personal glory and more land for them grubby nobles to lord over.
===Holy Ankh===
 
'''''Description:''' You find a hefty pendant on a strange and ominous looking altar. It glows brightly when you pick it up!''
 
  
'''''Description:''' There is a strange altar here and a pendant on it. I don't want to touch it.''
+
To abbadon with the Crown! We got no armies and we don't even got real weapons, but we of the Western Marches make do just fine with our slings and clubs. In all Annuvin Province, there won't be nobody besting us in these swamps. We're self-reliant out here. We gots our own trade routes and pacts of mutual defence. No need for them Wesnothians. Not a single bit.
  
==Scenario 1: The Raid==
+
The sun were out today, but it were raining too. Weird mix of brightness and woe. Reminds me of the day Harper's pa died in that orc raid. Since my sis Erwen passed when he were young, poor lad had nobody but me. Never wanted no kid of my own but... he's mine to take care of now. Fine lad, that one, just a bit careless like his pa. I needs to keep a good eye on him now, with all them orcs running round here of late.
===Story Text===
 
In the Era of Turmoil, during the reign of King Garard II, the border towns of Delwyn and Dallben in the province of Annuvin grew increasingly dissatisfied with the King's rule. Being preoccupied with the great wars, the King was unable to send adequate forces to protect the frontier.
 
  
The hardy people of these marches learned self-reliance and survival skills against the raiding orc hordes and savage saurians. They established their own trading routes and pacts of mutual defense.
+
===Introductory Dialogue===
 +
'''Fal Khag:''' I long to burn human cities, but that weaselly witch thinks we're only good enough for these puny villages. These hapless clods barely have anything, but at least the witch's gold is good.
  
Although not permitted to train with proper military weapons, these woodsmen were at home in the forests and swamps of the Western Marches, and became very effective with their simple slings and clubs.
+
Ride, you worms! Let's finish our raid before their hunters return.
  
After the betrayal of the King by Queen Asheviere, the new regent of Wesnoth sought to consolidate her ill-gotten power. She sent her armies across Wesnoth to intimidate the provincial rulers and secure her continued reign.
+
'''Red:''' Look, goblin riders approach! You was right, they was going to raid Dallben while we was gone.
  
The people of Annuvin were unwilling to relinquish their hard-earned self-rule, especially not to this pretender...
+
'''Baldras:''' We gots to stop them or they'll burn down the whole village. Damn these goblins and damn the Crown. We always be havin' to fight for ourselves.
  
===Introductory Dialogue===
+
'''Harper:''' Uncle, we got no time to talk! Them riders are heading full speed straight for Dallben. We'll need to chase them down through those woods, and fast, or we won't be able to catch up.
'''Fal Khag:''' I long to burn human cities, but until our great chieftains provide us with sufficient forces we must look to these villagers to feed our wolves and slake the thirst of our blades.
 
  
Ride, you worms, I want to finish our raid before the hunting party returns to the human village.
+
'''Baldras:''' Do it. Hold them beasts back till us old-timers get there to finish 'em off.
  
'''Red:''' Look, goblin riders approach! You were right, they were going to raid Dallben while we were gone.
+
And Harper... don't be getting reckless on me today. Your old man died like that, changing into a pack of goblins by 'imself. I won't lose ya the same way.
  
'''Baldras:''' We must stop them before they reach the village. Damn the crown, they have long since forgotten about us out here.
+
'''Harper:''' I know, I know, no need to worry so much. All right, let's go!
  
'''Harper:''' That goblin leader is heading full-speed straight for Dallben. But we'll need to chase them all down if we're going to stop them.
+
===Fal Khag is killed===
 +
'''Fal Khag:''' I was... too weak..?
  
'''Baldras:''' Do it. Try to hold them back until us old-timers can get there and finish them off.
+
'''Harper:''' Silly goblin.
  
And Harper... don't get yourself killed. I'm responsible for you now that your father is gone, and I won't dishonor his memory by breaking my promise to keep you safe.
+
===Goblins near the Village===
 +
'''Harper:''' They're getting close to Dallben! What should we do?
  
'''Harper:''' ...I know... All right now, let's stop these goblins!
+
'''Baldras:''' There be a couple guards in the village. Might be able to slow them wolves down if they get closer.
  
===Victory===
+
'''Wolmas:''' Look! Goblin riders be on the hunt, headed right for Dallben!
'''Harper:''' We are barely able to survive these orc raids. We lost two men last week, more today... yet Weldyn does nothing!
 
  
''We are barely able to survive these orc raids. We lost two men last week, more could have died today... yet Weldyn does nothing!''
+
'''Remald:''' We gots to stop them!
  
'''Baldras:''' The King stopped sending patrols out here once the war started. Once that happened, the burden fell to us. We are citizens of Wesnoth, and as long as her banner flies we will resist the horde.
+
===Ally unit near the Village===
 +
'''Wolmas:''' What's happeninng here? Why be you running like mad, unit?
  
'''Harper:''' The banner will fly over a ghost town if help does not come soon.
+
'''Unit:''' Goblin riders be on the hunt, headed right for Dallben. We gots to stop them!
  
===Orcs near the Village===
+
===Harper reaches the backpack===
'''Harper:''' They're getting closer to our village! What about the town guards, can they help us?
+
'''Harper:''' Hey, someone left their pack here. I could use it to carry some more rocks.
  
'''Baldras:''' They'll come out when they see those riders, or us, approaching, but there aren't many of them... I wouldn't count on them being able to protect the village alone for long.
+
===Victory===
 +
'''Harper:''' These orc raids keep getting harder and harder to hold off. Feels like every new day's just another chance for us to lose everything...
  
===Units very near to the Village===
+
'''Baldras:''' That Garard II stopped sendin' patrols out here a while back. Stinker probably sent his troops on some new war against them orcs. Don't really matter. Technically Annuvin be under the charge of Elensefar, but you don't see 'em coming to help us either.
====Humans====
 
'''Wolmas:''' What's happening here? Why are you running like mad, $unit.name|?
 
  
'''Unit:''' Goblin riders on the hunt. We must not let any of them to the village!
+
'''Harper:''' Then why do we got to pay taxes to the King? Maybe Elensefar doesn't help us, but at least they don't take our gold.
  
====Orcs====
+
'''Baldras:''' We don't got no choice, lad. If I don't give them what they want, they'll make trouble for everyone in Dallben.
'''Wolmas:''' Look! Goblin riders are on the hunt - and heading right for Dallben!
 
  
'''Remald:''' Halt!
+
'''Harper:''' But we can't keep doing this forever, Uncle. If we stay like this, those orcs will eventually overrun us. What should we do?
  
===The Orcs Reach the Village===
+
'''Baldras:''' I don't know, Harper. I just don't know. Alls I can say is we're on our own out here.
'''Baldras:''' The goblins reached the village! There will surely be nothing left when they are done pillaging it.
 
  
 
===Defeat===
 
===Defeat===
'''Narrator:''' None remarked on the passing of the tiny, isolated frontier town. It was but a harbinger of the evil to come under the tyranny of Asheviere.
+
'''Harper:''' The goblins reached the village! Now there'll be nothing left after they raid our homes...
  
 
==Scenario 2: Civil Disobedience==
 
==Scenario 2: Civil Disobedience==
 +
===Story Text===
 +
Baldras' journal, 6 Deeproot, 501 YW:
 +
 +
Me and Harper visited Erwen's grave today. I helped tha lad pick her a bunch of flowers - we even found some of her favourite, blue lillies. Harper doesn't remember her much, but he still thinks lots about her. Lad reminds me so much of his ma often times, real bright and brassy, even if he doesn't got her sense or wits. I'm just hoping he be learning more with time.
 +
 +
Speaking of sense, I gots me a bad feelings in my gut about today. I'd better ready our hunting troop when I get back to the village, just in case...
 +
 
===Introductory Dialogue===
 
===Introductory Dialogue===
 
'''Harper:''' Look, riders approach.
 
'''Harper:''' Look, riders approach.
Line 94: Line 102:
 
'''Baldras:''' Stand fast, nephew.
 
'''Baldras:''' Stand fast, nephew.
  
'''Tarwen:''' By order of the Queen, the magistrate of this town is ordered to travel with us to Elensefar for vetting.
+
'''Tarwen:''' By order of the Queen, the magistrate of this town is to travel with us to Elensefar for vetting.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' The Crown did long since abandon our village. You Wesnothians be too busy countin' the gold from our taxes to be sending aid against them orcs. Nobody here be leaving to nowhere.
 +
 
 +
'''Tarwen:''' Insolent peasant. Try not my patience, else I shall be forced to drag thy deceased corpse back with me to the city.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Try it then, stinker.
 +
 
 +
'''Tarwen:''' As you wish.
 +
 
 +
Guard the gate.
 +
 
 +
'''Harper:''' ''Uncle, since when did we have a queen?''
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' ''Since a few years back, I think, but weren't never her giving out no orders...
 +
 
 +
It doesn't really matter right now. Harper, get yerself out o'here. This be no kind of battle for you.''
 +
 
 +
'''Harper:''' I can fight!
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' ''Harper, do what I say to ya.''
 +
 
 +
'''Harper:''' We're in this together. Death to the Wesnothians!
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Impulsive lad...
 +
 
 +
===Enemy unit takes a village===
 +
'''Peasant:''' Help, help! I'm being repressed!
  
'''Harper:''' Garard is the King of Wesnoth. We are ruled by no queen.
+
===Ally unit is killed===
 +
'''Harper:''' They just killed an innocent man! Murderers!
  
'''Tarwen:''' Insolent peasants, you will kneel before your betters! Asheviere is the queen of Wesnoth. The King fell three weeks ago at Abez. I shall not bandy words with you. Your magistrate will be coming with us, and we do not care if it is dead or alive.
+
'''Tarwen:''' Cry thine eyes out for me, peasant.
  
'''Baldras:''' Harper, get out of here. This is no battle for you.
+
===Enemy unit is killed===
 +
'''Harper:''' Take that, you bullies!
  
I am the magistrate of Dallben, and it is YOU who will be leaving Dallben, be it dead or alive.
+
===Baldras reaches the mace===
 +
'''Baldras:''' I oughta bring out the good mace to fight off these thugs.
  
 
===Attack Tarwen===
 
===Attack Tarwen===
'''Tarwen:''' Get back, you cur!
+
'''Tarwen:''' Back, back ye curs!
  
 
===Tarwen Dies===
 
===Tarwen Dies===
 
'''Killer:''' Get out of my village!
 
'''Killer:''' Get out of my village!
  
'''Baldras:''' Our lives were hard enough when we were beneath the attention of the Crown. But now I fear things will be worse.
+
'''Unit:''' We beat their leader, but a couple of them riders escaped. What should we do?
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Somethin' be very wrong here. That Garard weren't never no hero or nothing, but his men never would've attacked us. The Queen must've did something to him.
 +
 
 +
'''Harper:''' We've got to tell the people of Delwyn about this. Ol' magistrate Relana will have some ideas.
 +
 
 +
'''Unit:''' That's true. Whenever there's been troubles, we've always looked to her for help.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Fine. We'll go to Delwyn, see what Relana gots to say. With them riders so eagerly attackin' us today, I'm thinking Delwyn will be under threat too.
  
'''Harper:''' We must tell the people of Delwyn about this.
+
'''Harper:''' So we'll have to fight them Wesnothians again?
  
'''Advisor:''' That is true. We have always flown to their aid, and they to ours. This is something we should face together.
+
'''Baldras:''' Alls I can say for certain is we've made ourselves enemies of the Crown. They'll be hunting us now.
  
'''Baldras:''' Very well. We will go to Delwyn and share counsel with them. I never thought Wesnoth would fall into darkness. Now, not only do the orcs threaten our lands, but some sinister thing is happening with the ascent of the Queen to the throne.
+
'''Harper:''' Then we're outlaws.
  
Today we may no longer be citizens of Wesnoth. I wish it could be otherwise, but we are now outlaws.
+
'''Baldras:''' Aye, outlaws.
  
 
===Time Runs Out===
 
===Time Runs Out===
Line 127: Line 173:
  
 
==Scenario 3: A Strategy of Hope==
 
==Scenario 3: A Strategy of Hope==
 +
===Story Text===
 +
Baldras' journal, 10 Deeproot, 501 YW:
 +
 +
Been a strange few days. Had to leave Dallben real quick. We grabbed whatever we could in just a day, some food, some clothes, sis's lucky bracelet... and made off for Delwyn as quick as these old bones would let me. It be a three day journey there for me, but I sended Harper ahead for Relana first. Said we'd meet her in the usual hiding spot in the swamp.
 +
 +
This whole mess be utter stupidness. Of all the things to be driving us from our home, how did it ended up being those accursed Wesnothians? Blasted Crown. Doesn't matter whoever's the one giving out them orders, those stinkers in Weldyn always be making trouble for us country folk.
 +
 +
I'm too old for all this. Them orc raids already be plenty for me to deal with. I don't be keen on fighting no war with Wesnoth. But... I suppose, I don't reallu got no choice either. Harper's still too young to be leading anyone, and it doesn't seen like anyone else in the village be suitable.
 +
 +
In times like these... I still wish Erwen was here with us. Little sis were always the best of us two. She always knew how to keep her temper and her wits about her. What would she say to me now? Probably something like: "Quit yapping ya old dog and focus on what you're doing. We've got to be getting them people to safety." Cheeky kid, that one. But she'd be right, I has me a responsibility to our people. Got a lot of trouble ahead of us...
 +
 
===Introductory Dialogue===
 
===Introductory Dialogue===
'''Baldras:''' Relnan, thank you for welcoming our messenger and agreeing to meet with us. In your many years as Delwyn's magistrate I have never known your judgment to err.
+
'''Relana:''' Baldras! Ya made it! Lil Harper here told me all about what happened.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Aye, Relana. It were one o' the Queen's patrol, strange as it do sound. Turns out they was itchin' to attack us soon as I wasn't willing to leave with 'em.
 +
 
 +
'''Harper:''' But we fought those ugly scoundrels off!
 +
 
 +
'''Relana:''' Queen's patrol, ya say? They sent them a messenger our way a couple days ago, demanding our allegiance to some 'Asheviere'. Weren't that Garard's young bride or something? Why's she the one in charge now?
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' I don't know, but some of them riders escaped us. Be they'll report back to their local garrison, tell them we're a bunch o' traitors.
 +
 
 +
'''Unit:'''Then they'll be comin' back in force.
 +
 
 +
'''Relana:''' We needs more information. We should consult ourselves with Elensefar. Lord Maddock surely gots to know more than us.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Elensefar? Why him?
 +
 
 +
'''Relana:''' Well all Annuvin be ruled by Elensefar, right? We don't gots to heed anything Wesnoth says. Lord Maddock's technically the one we answer to.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' It don't matter. Weldyn be doing whatever it likes while Maddock says nothing. He knows, but he don't care.
  
'''Relnan:''' It has been a long time, old friend. Your news worries us. Yet, there is no problem we have not worked out here at our secret meeting place.
+
'''Relana:''' But we still need that knowledge, Baldras. We can't be coming up with any great plan without no information. We both knows that if Weldyn brings one o' their armies here, there be no way we can fight them off.
  
'''Baldras:''' You do not understand. We attacked a Wesnoth army patrol. Not only that, the leader was no man I had ever seen in Annuvin province before. Never has one been sent out here as a patrol captain who was so ruthless and cruel.
+
'''Baldras:''' Perhaps, but - hold there. Did ya hear that? Sounded like some wolf howl.
  
'''Harper:''' Had they taken my uncle, they would have surely shown up in Delwyn today with the same ultimatum. As it is, several riders escaped.
+
'''Relana:''' Somethin' smells like lizard too. We're not alone here.
  
'''Relnan:''' Well, it won't be long until they report back to the local garrison with the details of your encounter.
+
'''Harper:''' Finally, some action!
  
'''Advisor:''' Then they'll be back in force.
+
'''Urk Delek:''' Blasted humans and blasted Fal Khag! Stupid goblin was only supposed to scout that puny village, not fight it by himself. Then those damned humans rejected our help and look where that got them.
  
'''Baldras:''' An offense to decency, this is! Since when has Wesnoth been ruled by fear and treachery? We should consult with Lord Maddock of Elensefar. We have known him for years to be noble in deed as well as in name.
+
"Don't know why the Queen hired some stinkin' orcs, we don't need you here." Yeah, well now they're dead like a bunch of beasts.
  
'''Relnan:''' I agree. But, Baldras, what will you tell him? We know something has been going badly wrong in Wesnoth of late, that more than ordinary corruption and incompetence is afoot. But when the effects fall on mere peasants, the wrong of it may not seem so obvious from a noble's chair.
+
'''Thhsthss:''' Your ordersss mean nothing to usss, orc. You promissed uss gold.
  
'''Baldras:''' We need evidence. Hard evidence...but wait, are those orcish war drums I hear?
+
'''Urk Delek:''' Shut your trap, lizard. You'll get your gold as soon as my wolves get their meat.
  
'''Relnan:''' I think they are, old friend. And that rank smell on the wind tells another tale; saurians approach. To arms!
+
===Reaching the swamp===
 +
'''Baldras:''' I don't likes me the look of that water.
  
'''Urk Delek:''' By the sound of the wolves, the scent trail of Fal Khag's killers ends here.
+
===Killing Urk Delek===
 +
'''Urk Delek:''' Blasted pink-skins...
  
'''Thhsthss:''' Fal Khag is nothing to usss, orc. You promissed uss gold. Bright gold.
+
===Harper reaches the bottle===
 +
'''Harper:''' That's some fresh tasty water. Mmm!
  
'''Urk Delek:''' You will get gold. And our wolves will get meat.
+
===Killing Thhsthss===
 +
'''Thhsthss:''' Thisss was not part of the deal...
  
 
===Victory===
 
===Victory===
'''Baldras:''' Something is very wrong here. Those orcs were carrying weapons with Army forge-markings.
+
'''Baldras:''' Something be very wrong here. Those orcs has weapons with Army forge-markings.
  
'''Relnan:''' Aye. And the gold in their pouches looked new from the mint.
+
'''Relana:''' Aye, and the gold in their pouches looks new from mint. Could just be plunder, but...
  
'''Baldras:''' Can the darkest rumors be true, then? Does the Kingdom...does Queen Asheviere...send orcs against her own people?
+
'''Baldras:''' Don't seem like it. I be thinking these orcs were hired to scout us. But for what? Of all the alliances to be making, why would Weldyn be hiring orcs?
  
'''Relnan:''' I think your mission to Lord Maddock just became more urgent than we knew, Baldras. I must remain here to see to the defense of Delwyn and Dallben, but you should fly to Elensefar with all speed.
+
'''Relana:''' I thinks your mission to Lord Maddock just became even more urgent. We needs to know the Queen's motives.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' I don't like leaving our people here alone, but I sees your point. If we wait, more will be coming.
 +
 
 +
'''Relana:''' For now, I can stay here and perhaps talk them Wesnothians out of attacking us directly, but I don't think s it will work forever. To survive this, we needs to act quick, Baldras.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Then we'll go to Elensefar as fast as we can. Lucky be with ya, Relana.
  
 
===Time Runs Out===
 
===Time Runs Out===
Line 167: Line 252:
  
 
===Defeat===
 
===Defeat===
'''Narrator:''' Baldras and Relnan returned to their villages to find them destroyed, with those who fought left dead and the few survivors born away to unguessable fates. It was a bitter doom, and as Wesnoth descended into darkness they would live to see worse.
+
'''Narrator:''' Baldras and Relana returned to their villages to find them destroyed, with those who fought left dead and the few survivors born away to unguessable fates. It was a bitter doom, and as Wesnoth descended into darkness they would live to see worse.
  
==Scenario 4: Valley of Trolls==
+
==Scenario 4: Unlawful Orders==
 
===Introductory Dialogue===
 
===Introductory Dialogue===
'''Lord Maddock:''' Baldras, your trip here was not wise. The Queen's patrols have been visiting the local villages and bringing the elders here. Those that swear allegiance to the Queen are allowed to return home. Those that do not...
+
'''Baldras:''' Maddock, I be coming to report-
 +
 
 +
'''Lord Maddock:''' I am already aware of your altercation in Dallben, Baldras. Your dissent was not wise.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Dissent? Maddock, I'm not trusting no strange riders who show up out of nowhere claimin' to be from the Queen. Seems like a bunch of pig-dirt to me.
 +
 
 +
'''Lord Maddock:''' That was partially my fault, since I was not able to send a messenger to you in time. I shall have to inform you now. Five weeks ago, at the Ford of Abez, Queen Asheviere's men allied themselves with the northern orcs and betrayed King Garard II.
 +
 
 +
Since Prince Eldred died in the battle, the Queen took the throne and has been consolidating her power. Part of that has been bringing the elders from the local villages here, forcing them to swear allegiance to her. That was the purpose of that patrol.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Annuvin province be ruled by Elensefar! We has no duty to Weldyn.
 +
 
 +
'''Lord Maddock:''' You do now. I do not really need to tell you what will happen should you refuse Her Majesty's offer.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Grow a spine, Maddock. If they come to ya and make you swear fealty to this Asheviere, would ya really give up that easy?
 +
 
 +
'''Lord Maddock:''' Well, they do not come within the walls of my city. There is a large garrison south at the great fortress of Halstead, but even should they mobilize all their troops, I doubt they could take Elensefar. It is true that for now, the majority of my forces are still returning from the battle of Abez, but unless we are attacked within the next few days, I shall be able to hold the city.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' And what about us? Throw us like dogs to those Wesnothians?
 +
 
 +
'''Lord Maddock:''' We have an uneasy peace to maintain. The treaty between Elensefar and Wesnoth is ancient, and I do not think Her Majesty means to break it. At the same time, I have some concessions that I shall have to make. I cannot afford a war with Weldyn, as you can surely understand.
 +
 
 +
'''Harper:''' But we can't do nothing! The Queen even be sending them beast orcs against us, that's how evil she is! Surely you can't stand for this...
 +
 
 +
'''Lord Maddock:''' Yes, I am aware of Queen Asheviere's propensity for hiring orcs to supplement her forces. That does not mean I could do anything about it, even if I were so inclined. The best advice I can give you is to just apologize. Even if they may want your head, Baldras, you still have the chance to preserve your village. Think of the bigger picture.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' The bigger picture of you idly sittin' here waiting till them Wesnothians come to take the city right from your hands.
 +
 
 +
'''Lord Maddock:''' I very much doubt they would be bold enough to attack us outright-
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' Head out of your behind, Maddock. Open your eyes! Look south and tell me that again!
  
'''Baldras:''' ...are dispatched on the spot. I know the price of dissent. But what of you?
+
'''Lord Maddock:''' An invading army? No, something is not right with those soldiers... but I presume we have no time to ponder that. To arms!
  
'''Lord Maddock:''' Well, they do not come within the walls of my city. They are actually camped nearby, and the main garrison is further south at Halstead. I know my time will soon come to swear allegiance, but they do not press me. They are afraid I will refuse.
+
===Enemy units attack===
 +
'''Lord Maddock:''' Hold there, soldier! Can we not come to terms without bloodshed?
  
'''Baldras:''' Will you?
+
'''Enemy unit:''' ...
  
'''Lord Maddock:''' Yes. The Queen ascended to the throne through the vilest of treachery. However, while most of my forces were sent with the King to fight the orcs, we have a strong enough contingent here to make the Queen's forces think twice about attacking Elensefar outright.
+
'''Lord Maddock:''' Hmmm. Something is wrong indeed...
  
We have an uneasy peace until they are done with the smaller villages and finally come around to obtaining my oath. The treaty between Elensefar and Wesnoth is ancient, but I am not so naive as to place my full trust in it. Not in these wicked times.
+
===Dusk===
 +
'''Narrator:''' ''The sun sets...''
  
'''Harper:''' What can we do then? We have brought with us many from Annuvin province who are willing to fight, but our families are still at home. They will not last long if the Queen's patrols return.
+
Baldras and Harper watch, petrified, as the skin and the flesh of their adversaries begin to rot away.
  
'''Lord Maddock:''' I am unwilling to start a civil war. I believe the Queen will remain preoccupied with order throughout the kingdom and, more importantly, with quelling the Northerner threat. We are a matter she will choose to deal with later rather than sooner, if she can.
+
'''Harper:''' By the Light! Them things look like evil spirits! Are they those undead you told me about, Uncle?
  
'''Kestrel:''' A foolish miscalculation, Lord Maddock. These men with which you consort are outlaws and fugitives. They are a well-organized gang of criminals and murderers. We will kill them and then expect your oath of allegiance to Queen Asheviere.
+
'''Baldras:''' They bears some likeness, but these men almost seem half alive. This be some kind of truly dreadful sorcery.
  
'''Lord Maddock:''' Men, to arms! The defense of Elensefar has begun!
+
===Finding the chest===
 +
'''Unit:''' Hey, look! Some buried trasure!
  
===Enemies Become Undead at Night===
+
===Dawn Approaches===
'''Narrator:''' As the sun set, a horrific change began to take place to the human adversaries of Baldras and his allies...
+
'''Lord Maddock:''' So, their human aspect returns. Whatever these creatures are, we shall crush them all under the light of the sun.
  
====Humans' Response====
+
===Victory===
'''Harper:''' I cannot believe what my eyes are seeing! The flesh runs from their bones... these are not human warriors we fight. They are evil spirits masquerading as human!
+
'''Killer:''' Who are you? What are you?
  
====Dawn Approaches====
+
'''Kestrel:''' We... are accursed. We were the soldiers of Prince Eldred, the King's son and betrayer... when the Prince was slain at the hands of the mage Delfador, those of us who bore witness to it were warped into these twisted forms. Now, our mortal bodies pass... into another plane of hellish existence...
'''Lord Maddock:''' Their human aspect is returning! This is an evil manner of sorcery we face, but one that we may yet overcome. CHARGE!
 
  
===Kestrel Undies===
+
'''Lord Maddock:''' Such is the price for trachery.
'''Unkiller:''' Who are you? What are you?
 
  
'''Kestrel:''' We are accursed. We were once under the command of Prince Eldred, the King's son and betrayer. The price for our treason is this hellish existence. We know not who or what inflicted this curse upon us, but our mortal deaths may be only the beginning of the penance we are doomed to pay.
+
'''Baldras:''' Maddock, we helped you defend your city. Will you help us now?
  
'''Baldras:''' Lord Maddock, now that we are victorious, will you help us?
+
'''Lord Maddock:''' ...
  
'''Lord Maddock:''' I will not. Unless you want me to round up the city's thieves to fight for you, I do not have the troops to spare. However, I am not the only one who commands men in this corner of Wesnoth.
+
''Listen carefully. I shall not openly speak against Asheviere seeing as some of her spies are in the city... however, rest assured, I certainly do not trust the Queen and her questionable tactics.''
  
'''Baldras:''' I don't understand. There are no other noble lords in this area.
+
'''Baldras:''' ''What can ya offer us then?''
  
'''Lord Maddock:''' Southeast of here there is a town, and there you may find assistance of the type I cannot give.
+
'''Lord Maddock:''' ''Well, I do not normally make my relationship with them known, but I can make an exception. South-east of here, in Carcyn, you may find assistance from one of my... contacts. Their methods should be better suited to your needs. As for your homes, I cannot offer you protection against Weldyn, but I can arrange for some roads to be closed to delay their patrols. That is the most I can do for you.''
  
'''Baldras:''' Wish us well. If we are to resist the Wesnoth army a second time, we're going to need more than clubs and slings against steel.
+
'''Baldras:''' ''Hmph. Clear that you won't help us fight, but I gots no more time to be stayin' here. If we is going to resist the Crown a second time, we needs ourselves a good plan. Hope that you're not sending us to our deaths, Maddock.''
  
 
===Time Runs Out===
 
===Time Runs Out===
Line 219: Line 335:
  
 
===Defeat===
 
===Defeat===
'''Narrator:''' Indeed, Asheviere's armies had mustered and struck before the nascent rebellion could even be planned. Her power and ruthlessness - and their toll of death - would only grow greater with time.
+
'''Narrator:''' Asheviere's armies assembled and struck before the nascent rebellion could even be planned. Without the necessary forces, Annuvin soon fell under Weldyn's absolute control.
  
 
==Scenario 5: Hide and Seek==
 
==Scenario 5: Hide and Seek==
 +
===Story Text===
 +
22 Deeproot, 501 YW
 +
 +
Been a tough few days since we left Elensefar with all them patrols running around. Going by boat along the Great River, we has been managing to avoid them Wesnothians, but being constantly on the lookout be real taxing. I truly be starting to feel tiredness in my bones... old men like me should be sitting back at home, resting our grey bodies and watchin' over them younger folk growing up. I don't got no business here, running around as some outlaw. Maybe if I was ten years younger...
 +
 +
Anyway, the messenger I sent back to Relana should be in Delwyn already. We should be arriving to Carcyn soon too, to where that coward Maddock said his 'contact' be. Truths be told, I don't know how this'll be turning out, especially since I don't be no social butterfly like sis were. Don't like me no city folk really. But I'll deal with them if I gots to.
 +
 
===Introductory Dialogue===
 
===Introductory Dialogue===
'''Narrator:''' Relentlessly pursued by riders patrolling the road to Elensefar, Baldras and his men traveled unseen along the swampy banks of the Great River to the city of Carcyn.
+
'''Narrator:''' Relentlessly pursued by riders patrolling the road to Elensefar, Baldras and his men traveled unseen along the swampy banks of the Great River to the city of Carcyn. They hid until nightfall, then crept out to find the help Lord Maddock hinted was here.
 +
 
 +
'''Harper:''' Wow, is that Carcyn in the distance? Look at how grand some of them spires be!
  
They hid until nightfall, then crept out to find the help Lord Maddock hinted was here.
+
'''Baldras:''' Not since I were a young lad did I come this far south. Maybe it looks impressive now, but city life weren't never something real nice. Them city folk be real impatient and mean. Always wantin' some price for their help, too.
  
'''Baldras:''' I'm not sure where we're supposed to go now. If we go into town we can start asking around for information.
+
'''Harper:''' Well, we need their help now, don't we? So we got to work out a way to get to Lord Maddock's friend. But he didn't say anything about who that was.
  
Who are you?
+
'''Baldras:''' Harper, when a noble lord says he don't want some kind of relationship known, it means some kind o' connection with the black market. We be looking for criminals, probably some thieves' den. Or, maybe they be looking for us.
  
'''Link:''' I have come to find you. You must make it through the city without being seen. The soldiers are normally out hunting for my kind, but a company of heavy infantry arrived three days ago and took over the patrols.
+
Right on time.
  
'''Harper:''' They're looking for us.
+
'''Harper:''' How do we know we can trust him?
  
'''Link:''' Well, good thing I found you first. Now hurry, you must make it past the city into the Grey Woods. There is a small path in the southeast that leads into the forest; look for the signpost. My brother Hans is waiting for you there and will take you to our master. Try to avoid the soldiers if you can.
+
'''Link:''' If you were one of my quarries, your throat would be slit by now, boy. As it is, you two are still in imminent danger. Just a week ago, the Crown sent a contingent of heavy infantry here to supervise the city. They're patrolling the streets and forests for us.
 +
 
 +
'''Baldras:''' I be assuming they'll also try to stop us if they see us.
 +
 
 +
'''Link:''' Very likely. Now hurry, you must make it past the city into the Grey Woods. There is a small path in the south-east that leads into the forest. Look for the signpost. My brother Hans will guide you from there. Avoid the soldiers if you can.
  
 
===See the Town Guards===
 
===See the Town Guards===
'''Unit:''' Looks like these guards hold stationary posts, so if we're careful enough we should be able to slip our way around them unnoticed.
+
'''Unit:''' Looks like these guards be holding stationary posts. If we're careful, we can get ourselves around them unnoticed.
  
'''Baldras:''' Harper, you younger and faster folks need to be our eyes now. Scout ahead and try to find a way for us to get past the guards, but make sure to not stay where they can see you or we're all in big trouble...
+
'''Baldras:''' Harper, you younger and faster folks need to be our eyes. Scout ahead and find a way past the guards, but make sure ya don't get yourself spotted...
  
 
===Town Guards Start Chasing===
 
===Town Guards Start Chasing===
'''Harper:''' They've seen us, RUN!
+
'''Enemy unit:''' Who goes there? Halt!
  
===Town Guards Attack===
+
'''Harper:''' They've seen us! ''Run!''
'''Baldras:''' Fall back, quickly! Maybe we can yet lose them!
 
  
===Baldras Finds Hans===
+
===Hans is found===
'''Hans:''' Gentlemen, please come this way and follow the path into the forest. Our leader is anxious to meet you.
+
'''Hans:''' This way, into the forest! We'll be able to lose them in the Grey Woods.
  
'''Unit:''' As soon as we escape the Wesnoth death squad, we will be happy to oblige.
+
===Baldras reaches the signpost===
 +
'''Baldras:''' I haven't run so much in years. Feels like I be a real outlaw now, infiltrating a heavily guarded city relyin' on nothing but the cover of darkness and my wits.
  
'''Baldras:''' I haven't run this much in years. If you were to ask me to infiltrate a heavily guarded city relying on nothing but the cover of darkness and my wits, I would say you were crazy.
+
'''Harper:''' It was fun, wasn't it?
  
As it turns out, I'm the crazy one. Let's finish this folly.
+
'''Baldras:''' Perhaps a little.
  
===Someone Else Finds Hans===
+
'''Hans:''' Enough chatter, you still have some guards on your tail. We need to head deeper into the Grey Woods to lose them.
'''Hans:''' You can come if you wish, but the leader is only interested in speaking to Baldras.
 
  
===Victory===
+
'''Baldras:''' Lead the way.
'''Hans:''' Fly, and we may yet evade them in the Grey Woods.
 
  
'''Baldras:''' Lead the way...
+
===Someone else reaches the signpost===
 +
'''Hans:''' You can come if you wish, but we are mostly interested in speaking to Baldras.
  
 
===Time Runs Out===
 
===Time Runs Out===
 
'''Baldras:''' We have spent too much time here. Surely the Queen's forces have returned to Dallben. Our mission is unfinished, but we must return to fight a suicide battle.
 
'''Baldras:''' We have spent too much time here. Surely the Queen's forces have returned to Dallben. Our mission is unfinished, but we must return to fight a suicide battle.
  
==Scenario 6: A Detour through the Swamp==
+
==Scenario 6: The Hunters==
===Introductory Dialogue===
+
===Story Text===
'''Baldras:''' The leader, I presume.
+
24 Deeproot, 501 YW
  
'''Helicrom:''' I am Helicrom, and you should not be so glib. I control dangerous men. My henchmen can slip unseen through any city, rob a man while he sleeps, or attack a caravan head-on. It's not noble work, but our pursuits require plenty of gold.
+
The sun don't really shine at all in these Grey Woods, but truth be told, I has be getting used to it more and more. Lounging out in the warm daylight, talkin' with Erwen while watching them kids play out in the fields... those times were so long ago. Our lives weren't never real peaceful, but back then, we had our homes, our friends and our family... now we be creatures of the dark.
  
'''Baldras:''' Your pursuits?
+
It be real lonesome like this. I still has me Harper, and I be grateful for the boy, but he don't really understand an old man like me. I know the past be the past, but I just can't help but think of sis in times like these. How she used to be dragging me out on some silly little romp, a little job here and there for some gold or lil trinket, or sometimes just for fun... I never wanted to go, of course. I were always real lazy. Still am, even now.
  
'''Helicrom:''' The former King's magic ministry kept a tight control on the training and employment of mages in Wesnoth. Those of us who dared to... depart from the curriculum, you might say, were dealt with harshly. We are outcasts because we seek to master shadow magic. Our secrecy and security are not cheap.
+
Then, Harper tells me, "Come on Uncle, we're on an adventure! Don't be so mopey, live a little!" I know he be trying to be cheery, but he really don't know how much he be reminding me of her sometimes...
  
'''Baldras:''' I have heard of you. Necromancers. Barely-human scum, I say.
+
I must be strong. That's what I tells myself. I should be strong, but... I don't know what be keeping me going, if it be this misguided sense of pride, or my duties to the village, or Harper, or even just remembering the past, making some futile attempts to go back to better times.
  
'''Helicrom:''' Wrong. Necromancers become slaves to their lich masters and eventually lose their humanity. We have proven that practicing the dark arts need not lead down that path to damnation. We remain human, and seek the mystical secret of balance between the ways of light and darkness. We dance between both ways, adhering to neither.
+
Either way, I be here now, on this adventure.
  
'''Baldras:''' I...see, I think. Why do you want to help us?
+
===Introductory Dialogue===
 +
'''Baldras:''' The leader, I presumes.
  
'''Helicrom:''' We don't. You have sought us out. But, I do know of your situation and am willing to help. Any weakening of the Throne of Wesnoth, whether it be occupied by King or Queen, aids us.
+
'''Helicrom:''' Indeed, I am Lord Helicrom, the Crow of the Grey Woods. We are acquaintances of Lord Maddock, who sent word to us of your predicament. I believe we can work something out for your situation.
  
Carcyn is always foggy as of late because these woods have recently become home to a lich and two of its underling necromancers. Our experiments may have actually aroused it from sleep... we're not exactly sure.
+
'''Baldras:''' What be your pursuits?
  
'''Baldras:''' So now you need to defend your rear as well as your front... I see your predicament. My men will wipe this land clean if you can help us defend our homeland.
+
'''Helicrom:''' The former king's magic ministry kept a tight control on the training and employment of mages in Wesnoth. Those who dared to... depart from the curriculum were dealt with harshly. Many of us were forced to escape here to continue our study of our brand of magic. Our security and secrecy are not cheap.
  
===Sel-Mang Undies===
+
'''Baldras:''' Then you be fellow outlaws. But why do you wants to help us?
====An Enemy Remains====
 
'''Helicrom:''' Finally that creature is dead, yet its foolish minions resist.
 
  
====No More Enemies====
+
'''Helicrom:''' ''Quid pro quo''. Our aid is never given freely. You have something that may be useful to us.
'''Baldras:''' The lich is destroyed and its minions dead.
 
  
===Victory Dialogue===
+
'''Baldras:''' Manpower. Mages be no good at fighting, I knows. But what for?
====Helicrom is Dead====
 
'''Narrator:''' The defeat of the evil lich infesting the Grey Woods was a bittersweet victory. With Helicrom dead, the guild of shadow magic was thrown into disarray.
 
  
The remaining members were very grateful and offered Baldras a sizable sum of gold for his help. It was not the help he was hoping for, but he knew it would have to be enough for the coming conflict.
+
'''Helicrom:''' Understand this. Any weakening of the Throne of Wesnoth, whether it be occupied by king or queen, aids us. To accomplish that, we must destabilize their forces in this region. The key is Halstead.
  
====Helicrom is Alive====
+
'''Harper:''' The great fort standing between Aldril and Elensefar?
'''Helicrom:''' With the undead driven out, we may live here in relative peace and pursue our studies. For this, Baldras, I am grateful.
 
  
'''Baldras:''' Studies? Peace? You mean to continue feeding on the lawful citizens of Wesnoth. There will be no peace for them.
+
'''Baldras:''' Aye, Harper. What the mage says be no surprise. It be a bastion of central importance, rivallin' Elensefar even. Maddock said the Queen's troops were gathering there. But we gots no way to fight a war with them, not since Maddock won't send his soldiers to battle.
  
'''Helicrom:''' No one here is in a position to be dispensing moral judgments. Regardless, you have done great service to us today, and we owe you a debt. I will help you to the utmost of my ability.
+
'''Helicrom:''' Know this, Baldras. During the past week, several patrols have again ventured across the Great River into Annuvin. A woman named Relana opposed them with a small militia and was victorious, but with heavy losses. The Crown, however, has begun to take notice of this rebellion and is massing forces within Halstead. When its armies are raised, none of your little villages will be able to resist them. Your only choice would be to flee further north into orcish territory.
  
I was planning on giving you gold. Any good army is well financed, and with the lich gone we can now spare it.
+
'''Harper:''' We'd never survive there. But would it be so bad if we just swore fealty to the Queen?
  
But, I think it would help you more if I lent you some of my men to join you on your adventures. The Queen has been sending mages out here, and my men are itching for some payback.
+
'''Baldras:''' Only if we gots no other choice. Let's hear the mage's plan first.
  
On the other hand, if I keep the full force of my organization here, we might be able to regroup and join you on the battlefield when the time comes.
+
'''Helicrom:''' I'm not asking you to fight a war. A direct fight against Weldyn's armies would be undoubtedly foolish. However, we have other means within our grasp. From Dan Tonk to Halstead, the fastest path lies through the pass between the Brown Hills and the Gryphon Mountains followed by the trek through these Grey Woods. We are in prime position to gnaw away at their troops, crippling their forces before they ever arrive at their destination.
  
I leave it to you to decide.
+
'''Baldras:''' Then what?
  
====Gold====
+
'''Helicrom:''' I am sure you can guess, magistrate.
'''Option:''' I will take the gold. How does 500 sound?
 
  
'''Helicrom:''' Agreed. Good luck and farewell to you, Master Baldras.
+
'''Baldras:''' You means to sack Halstead itself.
  
====Men====
+
'''Harper:''' There's no way we can fight them all... can we?
'''Option:''' Send your men with us. They will be valuable help as we prepare for the assault from the Wesnoth army garrison.
 
  
'''Helicrom:''' Done. My finest mages and thieves are at your disposal. Use them well.
+
'''Baldras:''' I don't know. But, for now, ambushing them patrols be easy enough. That'll slow them Wesnothians down enough for us to work out the next step.
  
====Join in Battle====
+
'''Helicrom:''' In the last day, my scouts have counted five platoons of troops marching towards the garrison. We must eliminate them all before they reach the outpost at the end of the woods. The outpost also must not be alerted to our presence, or we will have the bulk of their forces upon us.
'''Option:''' I wish you to join us in battle against the Queen's forces.
 
  
'''Helicrom:''' Alright. I need time to clean up this forest and recall my men from the countryside. We will be ready to march in 7 days. All now hinges on you! Until then...
+
'''Harper:''' The first platoon approaches...
 
 
===Time Runs Out===
 
'''Baldras:''' We have spent too much time here. Surely the Queen's forces have returned to Dallben. Our mission is unfinished, but we must return to fight a suicide battle.
 
  
===Helicrom Dies===
+
'''Helicrom:''' My men and I shall pincer them from the oter side of this path. When we are done, no-one shall fear the open roads and night sky more than the armies of Weldyn. Strike quickly, strike silently... and leave no one alive.
'''Helicrom:''' My men... have failed to protect me! I perish...
 
  
==Scenario 7: The Hunters==
+
===Finding the coffin===
===Story Text===
+
'''Unit:''' There is a waterlogged coffin here.
Baldras and his men quickly left the Grey Woods, not entirely convinced of their safety even after eradicating the lich.
 
  
As they marched, many men and women from the small hamlets peppering the area around Carcyn and the Grey Woods approached the group, asking to join them. The ascent of the Queen had cast an uneasy pall over the citizens of Wesnoth, and some of them were willing to resist it.
+
===Finding the key===
 +
'''Unit:''' There's a rusty key here. I wonder if it could be useful?
  
Knowing they too would be labeled criminals, he reluctantly accepted their help. (Baldras is now able to recruit outlaws.)
+
====Afterwards====
 +
'''Unit:''' Hey, that key fits in this coffin. Should I open it?
  
Camped at the edge of the forest, they quietly observed substantial troop movements coming from the direction of Aldril, a nearby city, and marching to the northwest. Unsure what to make of it, they debated their next course of action...
+
'''Baldras:''' No, that be a terrible idea.
  
===Introductory Dialogue===
+
Fine, do it.
'''Baldras:''' The words of Lord Maddock have weighed heavy on me these past few days. It has dawned on me that we can never win. We will never defeat the entire army of Wesnoth. Idiocy! If the noble lord of Elensefar is unwilling to resist the Queen, how should I ever expect to?
 
  
'''Harper:''' What's worse is that she appears to have taken notice. We have counted five platoons of heavy infantry marching towards the garrison in just the last 2 hours.
+
'''Unit:''' What is this disgusting monster?
  
'''Baldras:''' The garrison. The towers of Halstead are more than a garrison, nephew, they are a fortress. They used to protect this area from the enemies of Wesnoth; I never imagined they would house its enemies.
+
'''Helicrom:''' A ghoul, a creature of disease and pestilence. Kill the putrid thing. Its stench is making me sick.
  
'''Pitcher:''' (Baldras!)
+
====The ghoul is killed====
 +
'''Helicrom:''' Disgusting though it may be, perhaps that creature's corpse could be useful.
  
'''Harper:''' Uncle, he wears the crest of the Elense. We should answer.
+
====Taking the potion====
 +
'''Unit:''' Should I use this potion?
  
'''Baldras:''' Rider, hush before we are discovered! Come to us, but quietly!
+
=====Yes, I'll use it=====
 +
'''Narrator:''' Vile Concoction: This unit's melee weapons gain the poison special and this unit gains a small number of hitpoints.
  
'''Pitcher:''' Master Baldras, I bring news from the north. During the past week, several patrols have again ventured across the Great River into Annuvin. A man named Relnan opposed them with a small militia. He was victorious.
+
=====No, I'll leave it for someone else=====
  
'''Majel:''' This is surely good news!
+
===Reaching the reel===
 +
'''Unit:''' Bleagh, a slimy tentacle. Why's it so big?
  
'''Pitcher:''' I am afraid it is not. The Queen is sending a branch of her main field army directly from Weldyn. As soon as they arrive, they will burn every village to the ground. No one will live.
+
===Finding the tent===
 +
'''Unit:''' Hey, I found some old coins in this shack.
  
'''Baldras:''' The troop movements all make sense now. We must stop this army from reaching the garrison. We cannot swallow them whole, but we can gnaw away at them. They mustn't take one step without us being there to harass and delay them. When they reach Halstead they must be exhausted or dying.
+
===Attacking the lead patrol===
 +
'''Linneus:''' It's an ambush! Run!
  
'''Harper:''' You just said we can't beat their entire army!
+
===Helicrom finds the sword===
 +
'''Helicrom:''' Ah, here it is. I was wondering where I had misplaced my favourite blade.
  
'''Baldras:''' Do you propose surrender? It's this or nothing. All we can do is see it through to the end.
+
===Dawn===
 +
'''Archarel:''' Several platoons of troops were supposed to arrive today. I wonder if something happened to them.
  
'''Pitcher:''' May you prevail in peace and war. I must depart before I am seen so far from my Lord's borders.
+
===Turn 11===
 +
'''Enemy unit:''' Doesn't something about these woods feel weird to you, sir?
  
'''Jingo:''' Another platoon approaches...
+
'''Lead patrol:''' Afraid of ghost, soldier?
  
'''Baldras:''' When we are done, no one will fear the open roads and night sky more than the army of the usurper. Strike fast, strike silently... and leave no one alive.
+
'''Enemy unit:''' ...
  
===Attack the Enemy===
+
===Turn 18===
'''Linneus:''' It's an ambush! Hold your ground!
+
'''Archarel:''' Something about these woods seems quite unnatural. Perhaps we should stop sending our soldiers this way.
  
===Outpost Detachment Returns===
+
===Turn 21===
'''Narrator:''' The next morning, the local night patrol returned to the nearby outpost. They were surprised to see their fellow soldiers engaged in combat with the band of thugs of which they had heard so much.
+
'''Lead patrol:''' Woods, woods, woods and more woods! Bah, that general had better have a good reason for dragging me out to Halstead with all these oafs.
  
'''Archarel:''' Troops, to arms! These peasant scum think they are above the law. We will show them the law!
+
'''Enemy unit:''' But cap'n, we're your loyal troops...
  
===Step into the Fire===
+
'''Lead patrol:''' Shut it and keep moving.
'''Unit:''' Ow! Fire hot! No step in fire!
 
  
 
===Victory===
 
===Victory===
'''Baldras:''' What a bloody mess. We must attack Halstead next. If we wait, they will become invincible. If we can burn it to the ground before that happens, our people may have a chance. Rest well tonight, because tomorrow's battle will decide the fate of our homes, our families, and our freedom.
+
'''Baldras:''' It be done. Their patrols be shattered and broken.
  
====Helicrom is to Join the Battle====
+
'''Helicrom:''' Well done, but the fight is far from over. We will not be able to employ these tactics when more platoons arrive. You must make your choice. Will you fight? Or will you return to your village and beg for amnesty?
''''Baldras:''' Send word to Helicrom that we are ready. It is time for him to repay his debt.
 
  
===Time Runs Out===
+
'''Baldras:''' Amnesty? Knowing these Wesnothians, they'll have my head. Then again, if I could gives my life to save my whole village, I would.
'''Baldras:''' We have spent too much time here. Surely the entire Wesnoth army marches on our position. We are done for!
 
  
==Scenario 8: Glory==
+
'''Harper:''' We need you! Uncle...
===Story Text===
 
In the Year of Wesnoth 161, 338 years before Asheviere's betrayal, the newly crowned king sought to make safe once and for all the wildlands that separated the human cities surrounding Weldyn and the coastal regions of Elensefar.
 
  
The grand army of Wesnoth, personally led by the High Council of Archmagi, scoured the plains of all manner of hostile creature, be it beast, orc, or elf. The city-state of Elensefar was formally united to the kingdom and settlements rapidly spread. The country of Wesnoth had been carved in deed as well as in name.
+
'''Baldras:''' I know what you is going to say, Harper. That we should be fighting for our homes, just like we do against them orcs. But we be risking everything on this, lad.
  
A monument to this achievement was erected in the very heart of the wildlands. In a twelve-year ritual, the High Council demonstrated the height to which human magic had grown over the years by drawing the monument directly from the earth's living rock.
+
'''Harper:''' If we go back like this, that means we'll surrender to them Wesnothians and live our whole lives in oppression. You saw how they were sending so many soldiers and even orcs against us.
  
Hundreds of feet tall, the mountain towered high above the plains, its sheer walls both inspiring and terrifying. Men from all over the countryside labored there, building the most formidable fortress ever conceived. It became the Stronghold of Halstead.
+
'''Helicrom:''' The boy is naïve, but his spirit is in the right place. You risk your homes and the lives of your people, yes, but what good will they be if you live in tyranny? Believe me, I have been there. I would rather die than go back.
  
This sentinel of the western plains stood watch as Wesnoth prospered for many centuries under the protection it provided. No war has overcome it, and its walls have never been overrun. The blood of invaders stains its parapets and the bones of the defeated crumble at the base of Halstead's frozen waves of stone.
+
'''Baldras:''' Yes... Erwen would've said the same. If we march on Halstead, we gots to burn it to the ground before the Queen's forces rally. If we does that, Weldyn won't have no foothold in Annuvin no more.
  
===Introductory Dialogue===
+
'''Helicrom:''' It would be months before they could reassemble their forces here. Enough time for you to secure your homes, or relocate.
'''Baldras:''' There it is. The stronghold of Halstead.
 
  
'''Harper:''' Look at how tall it is! Those towers rise sheer out of the ground, as if called forth out of the earth.
+
'''Baldras:''' Then it be decided. We'll attack the fort together. Luck be with us.
  
'''Baldras:''' That may not be too far from the truth. During the time of the Great Kings of Wesnoth, this land was tamed with powerful magic. Wizards of an ancient era forged the walls of Halstead from the rock below.
+
===Defeat===
 +
'''Archarel:''' Look there! Outlaws and bandits roam these woods, harrying our patrols!
  
'''Harper:''' I don't see how we can bring it down. They are already invincible in there!
+
Troops, to arms! Show these fugitive scum the meaning of the Queen's law!
  
====Helicrom is Present===
+
'''Helicrom:''' With the outpost aware of our presence, we can no longer harry their reinforcements. Their forces will soon grow too powerful for us to resist.
'''Helicrom:''' No, my young friend. Halstead indeed has a weakness. Among my many assets is access to a wealth of secrets few in Wesnoth are privy to.
 
  
You see, the mountain on which the fort was built is solid, but the castle on top has been built and rebuilt many times over the ages. It is not as indestructible as you might think.
+
==Scenario 7: Glory==
 +
===Story Text===
 +
From the Annals of Alduin, 98 YW
  
Beneath the structure is a system of catacombs that connects all four towers to the central keep. Over time, after many wars, supports were required to hold up the middle.
+
One score and eight years ago, in 70 YW, the King of Wesnoth and the Lord of Elensefar signed a treaty of trade and alliance in order to further the security of mankind. The realization of this treaty required the creation of a safe path between Weldyn and Elensefar, with all manner of hostile creature or beast scoured from these civilized lands. From Dan Tonk, the establishment of Aldryl and Carcyn secured the once hazardous passage alongside the Grey Woods, completing the way between the two cities. With this, the alliance can truly be deemed a coalition of men.
  
'''Harper:''' So… we can knock out the supports and bring down the stronghold of Halstead. Would it really work?
+
To commemorate the concordat, six years ago, the Lords of Weldyn and Elensefar decreed that a monument be erected in the heart of these once wild lands. We, the magi of Alduin, lent our services to demonstrate the full prowess and might of human magic. Above a series of old catacombs in a scant hill, we spent these years raising an immense stronghold from the earth's living rock.
  
'''Baldras:''' I believe it will. Each tower has a passage down to the catacombs. If we can reach the center of each tower, one of our men can escape down to the bowels of the mountain and destroy its support. I am sure we will need to demolish no less than all four supports to raze the fortress.
+
Completed, as it is on this day, this sentinel of the west now towers hundred of paces tall, a great monolith looming sheer above the plains. the sight of these colossal walls, to even us magi, is both awe-inspiring and terrifying. So tall these towers peak and so mighty thee walls arie that such a feat seems more like a force of nature than a work of a man. That we have fashioned this muntain as insignificant humans is almost inconceivable. Halstead, as we have named it, is impenetrable. No-one shall ever overcome these tidal waves of stone.
  
====Else====
+
===Introductory Dialogue===
'''Baldras:''' No, young one. Halstead indeed has a weakness.
+
'''Baldras:''' There be it. The stronghold of Halstead.
  
'''Harper:''' How do you know?
+
'''Harper:''' Look at how tall it is! Those towers be so sheer and smooth, it almost looks like magic called them up out of the earth!
  
'''Baldras:''' When I was a boy, my father - your grandfather - brought your dad and me to live in Aldril after orcs massacred many in our village. We grew up around here, and we learned many things.
+
'''Baldras:''' Aye, there may be some truths in that. Old stories tells us that in times past, Elensefar and Weldyn had some real strong mages, much more adept than them ones who only be politicking nowadays. They helped tame the lands between the cities and forged the walls of Halstead itself to honour the alliance.
  
Beneath the structure is a system of catacombs that connects all four towers to the central keep. The catacombs growing over time, combined with centuries of war, made it necessary to install supports to hold up the middle.
+
'''Harper:''' I don't see how we can bring it down. They seem invincible in there!
  
'''Harper:''' So... we can knock out the supports and bring down the stronghold of Halstead. Would it really work?
+
'''Baldras:''' Indeed...
  
'''Baldras:''' I believe it will. Each tower has a passage down to the catacombs. If we can reach the center of each tower, one of our men can escape down to the bowels of the mountain and destroy its support. I am sure we will need to demolish no less than all four supports to raze the fortress.
+
'''Helicrom:''' Worry not, Halstead has a weakness. What Baldras spoke was partly true. Previous orders of magi did help erect the fortress. What is not made known to most is that the original construction of the castle was flawed.
  
====Dialogue Continues====
+
These walls were raised over a system of catacombs, which connect the four towers to the central keep. Though they appear impressive, the tunnels were never meant to hold up such a tremendous weight. Supports were added later to hold up the middle, which eventually began to collapse without them. Naturally, this was made secret by the magi, who did not want others to learn of their error.
'''Harper:''' I hope you're right. In a few hours, night will fall, and we will find out.
 
  
'''Baldras:''' We must be cautious. Look there, a substantial orc force is also advancing on Halstead. They must think Wesnoth's army is spread out right now.
+
'''Harper:''' So... we can knock out the supports and bring down the main keep. Would it really work?
  
'''Harper:''' Heh. They're in for a surprise. This may work to our advantage.
+
'''Helicrom:''' I believe it will. Each tower has a passage down to the catacombs. We must enter the tunnels and demolish all four supports, then the fortress should crumble.
  
===Cavalry Arrives to Help You===
+
'''Baldras:''' Let's hope you be right. Everything be hinging on this battle.
'''Farseer:''' Look in the distance... riders approach!
 
  
'''Baldras:''' Who is it?
+
===Turn 1===
 +
'''Vashna:''' Dommel! The Queen has sent me and my warriors to support your forces. We come to squash the puny peasant rebellion.
  
'''Farseer:''' Help, I hope. Circumstances cannot afford to get much more dire.
+
'''Dommel:''' I received no word from Her Majesty of your arrival, orc.
  
'''Baldras:''' Riders approach from the northwest! Stand fast, men.
+
'''Vashna:''' I have the orders right here.
  
'''Lancer:''' Sound the advance!
+
'''Dommel:''' I do not care. I would be a fool and an oaf to let a band of stinky raider orcs into Halstead without a fight.
  
'''Sir Gwydion:''' Knights of Elensefar, behold: the battle has already begun! Make camp here. Then, we CHARGE!
+
'''Vashna:''' What? Now look here, you coddled pink-skin. Your helpless 'soldiers' have been getting bested by a filthy bunch of vagrant bandits. Your army is as useless as you are pink. the Queen sent us here to clean up the mess that you are clearly too stupid to fix on your own.
  
'''Baldras:''' Amazing. Lord Maddock sent his house guards... his finest troops! Elensefar must be defenseless now. More hinges on this battle than I thought.
+
'''Dommel:''' A fine story. Most likely, this is a pitiful excuse for you to enter our fortress to plunder our armoury. Even if Her Majesty did order you here, we have no need for the help of you uncouth orcs. We have always managed just fine without you.
  
'''Farseer:''' Baldras, Gwydion is Lord Maddock's son. This battle isn't just about Annuvin anymore.
+
'''Vashna:''' Yeah? Well, we will see how finr you manage ''against'' us. I'll show you just how weak you pink-skins are.
  
===Troops Comes to Help Enemy===
+
'''Dommel:''' Come and try it, cretin.
'''Narrator:''' That afternoon, another advance element of the main Wesnoth army arrived...
 
  
===Attack Halstead===
+
'''Helicrom:''' Infighting among the forces of Weldyn does not bode well for the new queen, but is awfully convenient for us...
'''Dommel:''' I think... I think they're trying to storm Halstead itself... the fools!
 
  
===Enter Halstead===
+
===Reaching the stronghold===
 
'''Dommel:''' They have breached the fortress gate! Repulse them!
 
'''Dommel:''' They have breached the fortress gate! Repulse them!
  
===Move a Unit to a Tower Centre===
+
===Attacking Dommel's side===
'''Unit:''' I'm inside the tower! I'm going down to the catacombs - cover me.
+
'''Dommel:''' I think... I think they're trying to storn Halstead itself... the fools!
 +
 
 +
===Turn 6===
 +
'''Narrator:''' Not even a fully day had passed before the first advance elements of Wesnoth's main army began to arrive...
  
'''Narrator:''' After about an hour…
+
===Turn 8===
 +
'''Unit:''' Look in the distance... riders approach!
  
'''Unit:''' It's done.
+
'''Ally unit:''' Sound the advance!
  
====Destroy All Four Supports====
+
At your order, my liege.
'''Baldras:''' I think it's working! Everybody get clear NOW!
 
  
====Halstead Starts to Collapse====
+
'''Sir Gwydion:''' Lo, Knights of Elensefar, the battle hath begun ere our arrival. Though I disobey my father in this endeavour, our presence surely is much needed.
'''Narrator:''' The stronghold of Halstead began to shake...
 
  
'''Unit:''' We cannot stay here. The fortress has started to collapse!
+
Ready thine lances, mine brethren, Let us charge down the armies of Weldyn!
  
===Halstead Collapses===
+
'''Unit:''' A horde of knights, bearing the emblem of Elensefar! Amazing. I've never seen me so many riders in one place.
'''Narrator:''' With a thunderous earthquake and a vast billowing of dust, thousands of tons of stone and wood crashed in on itself. Some of it tumbled down the steep sides, while the remainder came to rest several hundred feet below ground, in the bowels of the hollowed-out mountain.
 
  
No one inside the fortress would make it out alive.
+
'''Baldras:''' Gwydion be Lord Maddock's son... more be hinging on victory than I thought. This battle don't just be about our little villages no more.
  
===Time Runs Out===
+
===Killing Dommel===
'''Narrator:''' After more than a week of fierce fighting, the main body of Asheviere's host arrived from Weldyn. The battle was soon finished. Every last man from the province of Annuvin was executed.
+
'''Unit:''' Your time is over, General.
  
===Baldras Dies===
+
'''Dommel:''' I may be done... but my death shall only bring the full wrath of the Crown upon you... relish your small victory, peasants, while you still can...
====As Halstead Collpases====
 
'''Baldras:''' Men, help me out of here! I am trapped under this rubble.
 
  
'''Narrator:''' No one was able to get to Baldras in time. He and many of his companions died that day beneath the stronghold of Halstead.
+
===Killing Vashna===
 +
'''Vashna:''' Grrarrghh... you... fools...
  
'''Baldras:''' I hope this sacrifice is not in vain... but we will never know.
+
===Helicrom dies===
 +
'''Helicrom:''' Ended... like this? Fight on without me...
  
====Else====
+
===Reaching the wooden trap doors===
'''Baldras:''' Our dream of freedom... gone... Unngh.
+
'''Unit:''' I'm inside! I'm heading down to the catacombs.
  
====Dialogue Continues====
+
'''Narrator:''' After some time...
'''Narrator:''' The rebellion had stakes its all on victory at Halstead, but win or lose, there would be no help for the villagers, ground beneath the wheels of Asheviere's wrath.
 
  
===Harper Dies===
+
'''Unit:''' It's done.
'''Harper:''' Uncle!
 
  
'''Baldras:''' NO!
+
====The last one====
 +
'''Narrator:''' The stronghold of Halstead began to shake...
  
I promised your father I would watch after you... and I failed.
+
'''Unit:''' We can't stay here. The fortress is starting to collapse!
  
But we are so close to the end. We must finish this. I am sorry you will not be able to enjoy our freedom. Goodbye, Harper.
+
===The next turn===
 +
'''Baldras:''' I think it be working! Everybody get clear!
  
===Helicrom Dies===
+
===Victory dialogue===
'''Helicrom:''' Carry on, my friends. Fighting by your side is the most honorable thing I have done...
+
'''Narrator:''' With a thunderous roar and a vast billowing of dust, thousands of tons of stone and wood crashed in on itself. Some of the wreckage tumbled down the steep sides, while the remainder came to rest several hundred feet below ground, in the bowels of the hollowed-out mountains.
  
===Dommel Dies===
+
No-one inside the fortress would make it out alive.
'''Killer:''' Your reign of terror is over, General.
 
  
'''Dommel:''' You will never successfully oppose Asheviere. Her power is too great... This small victory today is but a reprieve from the unimaginable pain you will suffer when the full force of her wrath descends upon you.
+
==Liberty - Epilogue==
 +
3 Scryer's Bloom, 501 YW
  
====Supports Destroyed====
+
It were a real shock. I were so stunned, I barely even remember what happened after.
'''Baldras:''' This was no small victory. You underestimate the power of love for freedom.
 
  
'''Dommel:''' You... underestimate the... cruelty and ambition of your Queen... unngh..
+
Helicrom, I don't know what happened to him, didn't see what happened to Maddock's son either. Me, Harper and the few of us who survived got up and ran. We be heading back north now, towards Carcyn and Elensefar. Them patrols seems to be in real disarray, mostrly seeming to be riding back south to regroup. It be looking like we really did disrupt Weldyn's chain of command.
  
====Else====
+
I'm sure them Wesnothians will come back in time and with Maddock holed up in his stupid tower, they'll eventually lay siege to Elensefar and take the city... but that don't be my problem anymore. I has me a village to worry about. I need to get back, consult myself with Relana and work out what to do next. We gots some more time now, but we can't wait forever.
'''Baldras:''' Small victory? Bah! Now we will raze this fortress and bury it in the earth from whence it came.
 
  
==Scenario 9: Liberty - Epilogue==
+
10 Scryer's Bloom, 501 YW
The rest of the battle was a blur. The shock of what had happened stunned everybody.
 
  
Baldras and his men fled the plains of western Wesnoth under the cover of night. The spectacle of Halstead's destruction stunned them into a daze that only slowly wore off as they made their way north to and past Elensefar.
+
We got back to Dallben today, but the village were empty. There were a few bodies and some burned houses, but it weren't raided or nothing. Must've been one of them Wesnoth patrols, curse those damned stinkers! When I first saw the scene with my eyes, I thoughts that we failed, that we was too late... but now that I thinks of it, it be real weird that so few died. The others must've escaped to somewhere. But I didn't see any clues here.
  
The Elense riders routed the orcish army, small as it was, and sent them back across the Great River. They then scattered to the countryside and were not heard from again. Baldras thought this odd behavior when he heard about it.
+
I sended Harper off to Delwyn. Hope he'll find something there. In the meantimes, I'll rest this tired body for a little and go and see sis, maybe pick her up some lilies. Seems like this'll probably be the last time I gets to see her...
  
As the main body of Asheviere's army neared the ruins of Halstead, strange things began to happen. Every night, men would disappear. Others were found hacked to bloody pieces. Unexplained misfortune plagued the marching columns. Soldiers dropped dead where they stood, slain by unseen assassins. Fear of an undead menace spread through the ranks.
+
She'll tell me not to be sad, of course. That life just be a big adventure and filled with fun, that I shouldn't think about stuffs I can't change. The world be huge and vast, much bigger than small little people like me. I don't got the power to change it, so why not try to live as best I can? Besides, she'll say that I still gots me a little piece of her in Harper, so I should cherish the lad.
  
When the army of Wesnoth found the ruins of the mighty fortress Halstead, it was too much. Their shock that such a thing could happen combined with the invisible terror stalking them convinced Asheviere's second in command the entire countryside was cursed. He quickly retreated to the traditional border and set up strong defenses against the west.
+
I do, Erwen, I really do. This all be real hard. I don't be no brave soul, nor some great warrior, but I does my best. And I haven't forgotten about all them good times we had together - somehow, some way, they keeps me going. Me and Harper, we won't give up till the very end.
  
Baldras had just crossed the Great River when rumors of night-stalkers filtered through his ranks. With bitter humor he realized that Lord Maddock's men were successfully using tactics Baldras had mastered and used during his resistance.
+
14 Scryer's Bloom, 501 YW
  
The peasants-turned-outlaws finally reached Dallben. It was burnt to the ground. In a panic, they raced through the forest to Delwyn. It was likewise devastated. However, they did find one clue as to what happened...
+
Harper got back today from Delwyn. Said he didn't find no-one alive there, but he did bring back a note he found. Let's see what it says.
  
...a grimy note nailed to a charred post that read, 'Baldras, You would have been proud. We gave 'em hell. But in the end, it wasn't enough.'
+
''"Baldras, you would've been proud. Wefought them soldiers off twice, gave them a good ol' thrashing they won't ever forget. But in the end, it weren't enough. We had to run like criminals before they killed us all."''
  
'We fled like criminals in the night, but we made sure that no one would harass us anymore.'
+
''"I don't know if you and Harper will see this note, but if you do, I'm expecting ya to come and find us. Remember them ol' pirate islands we used to hear some of them Elensefar sailors talk about? We be heading there, south-west of the city and past the land's end. See you in the Three Sisters, old friend. - Relana"''
  
'If you wish to find us, head southwest. When you reach the land's end, just keep going. See you in the Three Sisters, old friend. - Relnan'
+
So they survived! Them islands be a bit far, but I suppose this sack of old bones has one more adventure left in it...
  
 
==L: Specified Unit Names==
 
==L: Specified Unit Names==
 
===Humans===
 
===Humans===
*Baldras (Village Elder)
+
*[[CharactersStorys#Baldras | Baldras]] (Village Elder)
 
*Jalak (Peasant Youth)
 
*Jalak (Peasant Youth)
 
*Delurin (Peasant Youth)
 
*Delurin (Peasant Youth)
Line 572: Line 688:
 
*Kembe (Peasant Hunter)
 
*Kembe (Peasant Hunter)
 
*Treagh (Peasant Hunter)
 
*Treagh (Peasant Hunter)
*Harper (Peasant Youth)
+
*[[CharactersStorys#Harper | Harper]] (Peasant Youth)
 
*Remald (Villager)
 
*Remald (Villager)
 
*Womas (Villager)
 
*Womas (Villager)
 
*Jasken (Villager)
 
*Jasken (Villager)
 
*Tarwen (Cavalier)
 
*Tarwen (Cavalier)
*Relnan (Senior Village Elder)
+
*[[CharactersStorys#Relana | Relana]] (Senior Village Elder)
*Lord Maddock (General)
+
*[[CharactersStorys#Lord_Maddock | Lord Maddock]] (General)
 
*Kestrel (General)
 
*Kestrel (General)
 
*Rothel (Lieutenant)
 
*Rothel (Lieutenant)
Line 584: Line 700:
 
*Hans (Rogue)
 
*Hans (Rogue)
 
*Link (Thief)
 
*Link (Thief)
*Helicrom (Shadow Lord)
+
*[[CharactersStorys#Helicrom | Helicrom]] (Shadow Lord)
 
*Archarel (Royal Guard)
 
*Archarel (Royal Guard)
 
*Linneus (Iron Mauler)
 
*Linneus (Iron Mauler)
Line 603: Line 719:
  
 
===Saurians===
 
===Saurians===
*Thhsthss (Saurian Oracle)
+
*[[CharactersStorys#Thhsthss | Thhsthss]] (Saurian Oracle)
  
 
===Undead===
 
===Undead===
Line 614: Line 730:
 
*Elensefar
 
*Elensefar
 
*Port of Elensefar
 
*Port of Elensefar
 +
 +
 +
[[Category:Create|*]]
 +
[[Category:Writing|*]]

Latest revision as of 08:21, 23 August 2022

Contents

This is a transcription of all dialogue from Liberty. It is meant as a resource for Wesnoth writers. If you don't want spoilers, leave this page now.

Death Dialogue

Baldras

I'm coming... Erwen...

Harper

Harper: Unngh...

Baldras: Harper, no!

Relana

I'm finished...

Lord Maddock

How can this be?

Helicrom

This is the end for me...

Scenario 1: The Raid

Story Text

From the journal of Baldras, 21, Scatterseed, 501 YW.

Months... seven months it's been since the Crown did send a single guard here to help us. This Garard II be a pompous stinker, even worser than his pa! Us of these border towns Delwyn and Dallben already be poor and needy, yet alls 'His Majesty' can think of is tax, tax, tax, takin' all our hard earned gold from us. Then he uses our gold to provoke more wars with more orcs just for personal glory and more land for them grubby nobles to lord over.

To abbadon with the Crown! We got no armies and we don't even got real weapons, but we of the Western Marches make do just fine with our slings and clubs. In all Annuvin Province, there won't be nobody besting us in these swamps. We're self-reliant out here. We gots our own trade routes and pacts of mutual defence. No need for them Wesnothians. Not a single bit.

The sun were out today, but it were raining too. Weird mix of brightness and woe. Reminds me of the day Harper's pa died in that orc raid. Since my sis Erwen passed when he were young, poor lad had nobody but me. Never wanted no kid of my own but... he's mine to take care of now. Fine lad, that one, just a bit careless like his pa. I needs to keep a good eye on him now, with all them orcs running round here of late.

Introductory Dialogue

Fal Khag: I long to burn human cities, but that weaselly witch thinks we're only good enough for these puny villages. These hapless clods barely have anything, but at least the witch's gold is good.

Ride, you worms! Let's finish our raid before their hunters return.

Red: Look, goblin riders approach! You was right, they was going to raid Dallben while we was gone.

Baldras: We gots to stop them or they'll burn down the whole village. Damn these goblins and damn the Crown. We always be havin' to fight for ourselves.

Harper: Uncle, we got no time to talk! Them riders are heading full speed straight for Dallben. We'll need to chase them down through those woods, and fast, or we won't be able to catch up.

Baldras: Do it. Hold them beasts back till us old-timers get there to finish 'em off.

And Harper... don't be getting reckless on me today. Your old man died like that, changing into a pack of goblins by 'imself. I won't lose ya the same way.

Harper: I know, I know, no need to worry so much. All right, let's go!

Fal Khag is killed

Fal Khag: I was... too weak..?

Harper: Silly goblin.

Goblins near the Village

Harper: They're getting close to Dallben! What should we do?

Baldras: There be a couple guards in the village. Might be able to slow them wolves down if they get closer.

Wolmas: Look! Goblin riders be on the hunt, headed right for Dallben!

Remald: We gots to stop them!

Ally unit near the Village

Wolmas: What's happeninng here? Why be you running like mad, unit?

Unit: Goblin riders be on the hunt, headed right for Dallben. We gots to stop them!

Harper reaches the backpack

Harper: Hey, someone left their pack here. I could use it to carry some more rocks.

Victory

Harper: These orc raids keep getting harder and harder to hold off. Feels like every new day's just another chance for us to lose everything...

Baldras: That Garard II stopped sendin' patrols out here a while back. Stinker probably sent his troops on some new war against them orcs. Don't really matter. Technically Annuvin be under the charge of Elensefar, but you don't see 'em coming to help us either.

Harper: Then why do we got to pay taxes to the King? Maybe Elensefar doesn't help us, but at least they don't take our gold.

Baldras: We don't got no choice, lad. If I don't give them what they want, they'll make trouble for everyone in Dallben.

Harper: But we can't keep doing this forever, Uncle. If we stay like this, those orcs will eventually overrun us. What should we do?

Baldras: I don't know, Harper. I just don't know. Alls I can say is we're on our own out here.

Defeat

Harper: The goblins reached the village! Now there'll be nothing left after they raid our homes...

Scenario 2: Civil Disobedience

Story Text

Baldras' journal, 6 Deeproot, 501 YW:

Me and Harper visited Erwen's grave today. I helped tha lad pick her a bunch of flowers - we even found some of her favourite, blue lillies. Harper doesn't remember her much, but he still thinks lots about her. Lad reminds me so much of his ma often times, real bright and brassy, even if he doesn't got her sense or wits. I'm just hoping he be learning more with time.

Speaking of sense, I gots me a bad feelings in my gut about today. I'd better ready our hunting troop when I get back to the village, just in case...

Introductory Dialogue

Harper: Look, riders approach.

Baldras: Stand fast, nephew.

Tarwen: By order of the Queen, the magistrate of this town is to travel with us to Elensefar for vetting.

Baldras: The Crown did long since abandon our village. You Wesnothians be too busy countin' the gold from our taxes to be sending aid against them orcs. Nobody here be leaving to nowhere.

Tarwen: Insolent peasant. Try not my patience, else I shall be forced to drag thy deceased corpse back with me to the city.

Baldras: Try it then, stinker.

Tarwen: As you wish.

Guard the gate.

Harper: Uncle, since when did we have a queen?

Baldras: Since a few years back, I think, but weren't never her giving out no orders...

It doesn't really matter right now. Harper, get yerself out o'here. This be no kind of battle for you.

Harper: I can fight!

Baldras: Harper, do what I say to ya.

Harper: We're in this together. Death to the Wesnothians!

Baldras: Impulsive lad...

Enemy unit takes a village

Peasant: Help, help! I'm being repressed!

Ally unit is killed

Harper: They just killed an innocent man! Murderers!

Tarwen: Cry thine eyes out for me, peasant.

Enemy unit is killed

Harper: Take that, you bullies!

Baldras reaches the mace

Baldras: I oughta bring out the good mace to fight off these thugs.

Attack Tarwen

Tarwen: Back, back ye curs!

Tarwen Dies

Killer: Get out of my village!

Unit: We beat their leader, but a couple of them riders escaped. What should we do?

Baldras: Somethin' be very wrong here. That Garard weren't never no hero or nothing, but his men never would've attacked us. The Queen must've did something to him.

Harper: We've got to tell the people of Delwyn about this. Ol' magistrate Relana will have some ideas.

Unit: That's true. Whenever there's been troubles, we've always looked to her for help.

Baldras: Fine. We'll go to Delwyn, see what Relana gots to say. With them riders so eagerly attackin' us today, I'm thinking Delwyn will be under threat too.

Harper: So we'll have to fight them Wesnothians again?

Baldras: Alls I can say for certain is we've made ourselves enemies of the Crown. They'll be hunting us now.

Harper: Then we're outlaws.

Baldras: Aye, outlaws.

Time Runs Out

Baldras: Oh, no! We have run out of time, they have arrived with reinforcements...

Defeat

Narrator: They would be remembered only traitors rightly put down by the Queen's lances. And in the dark years to come, woe betide any who questioned it.

Scenario 3: A Strategy of Hope

Story Text

Baldras' journal, 10 Deeproot, 501 YW:

Been a strange few days. Had to leave Dallben real quick. We grabbed whatever we could in just a day, some food, some clothes, sis's lucky bracelet... and made off for Delwyn as quick as these old bones would let me. It be a three day journey there for me, but I sended Harper ahead for Relana first. Said we'd meet her in the usual hiding spot in the swamp.

This whole mess be utter stupidness. Of all the things to be driving us from our home, how did it ended up being those accursed Wesnothians? Blasted Crown. Doesn't matter whoever's the one giving out them orders, those stinkers in Weldyn always be making trouble for us country folk.

I'm too old for all this. Them orc raids already be plenty for me to deal with. I don't be keen on fighting no war with Wesnoth. But... I suppose, I don't reallu got no choice either. Harper's still too young to be leading anyone, and it doesn't seen like anyone else in the village be suitable.

In times like these... I still wish Erwen was here with us. Little sis were always the best of us two. She always knew how to keep her temper and her wits about her. What would she say to me now? Probably something like: "Quit yapping ya old dog and focus on what you're doing. We've got to be getting them people to safety." Cheeky kid, that one. But she'd be right, I has me a responsibility to our people. Got a lot of trouble ahead of us...

Introductory Dialogue

Relana: Baldras! Ya made it! Lil Harper here told me all about what happened.

Baldras: Aye, Relana. It were one o' the Queen's patrol, strange as it do sound. Turns out they was itchin' to attack us soon as I wasn't willing to leave with 'em.

Harper: But we fought those ugly scoundrels off!

Relana: Queen's patrol, ya say? They sent them a messenger our way a couple days ago, demanding our allegiance to some 'Asheviere'. Weren't that Garard's young bride or something? Why's she the one in charge now?

Baldras: I don't know, but some of them riders escaped us. Be they'll report back to their local garrison, tell them we're a bunch o' traitors.

Unit:Then they'll be comin' back in force.

Relana: We needs more information. We should consult ourselves with Elensefar. Lord Maddock surely gots to know more than us.

Baldras: Elensefar? Why him?

Relana: Well all Annuvin be ruled by Elensefar, right? We don't gots to heed anything Wesnoth says. Lord Maddock's technically the one we answer to.

Baldras: It don't matter. Weldyn be doing whatever it likes while Maddock says nothing. He knows, but he don't care.

Relana: But we still need that knowledge, Baldras. We can't be coming up with any great plan without no information. We both knows that if Weldyn brings one o' their armies here, there be no way we can fight them off.

Baldras: Perhaps, but - hold there. Did ya hear that? Sounded like some wolf howl.

Relana: Somethin' smells like lizard too. We're not alone here.

Harper: Finally, some action!

Urk Delek: Blasted humans and blasted Fal Khag! Stupid goblin was only supposed to scout that puny village, not fight it by himself. Then those damned humans rejected our help and look where that got them.

"Don't know why the Queen hired some stinkin' orcs, we don't need you here." Yeah, well now they're dead like a bunch of beasts.

Thhsthss: Your ordersss mean nothing to usss, orc. You promissed uss gold.

Urk Delek: Shut your trap, lizard. You'll get your gold as soon as my wolves get their meat.

Reaching the swamp

Baldras: I don't likes me the look of that water.

Killing Urk Delek

Urk Delek: Blasted pink-skins...

Harper reaches the bottle

Harper: That's some fresh tasty water. Mmm!

Killing Thhsthss

Thhsthss: Thisss was not part of the deal...

Victory

Baldras: Something be very wrong here. Those orcs has weapons with Army forge-markings.

Relana: Aye, and the gold in their pouches looks new from mint. Could just be plunder, but...

Baldras: Don't seem like it. I be thinking these orcs were hired to scout us. But for what? Of all the alliances to be making, why would Weldyn be hiring orcs?

Relana: I thinks your mission to Lord Maddock just became even more urgent. We needs to know the Queen's motives.

Baldras: I don't like leaving our people here alone, but I sees your point. If we wait, more will be coming.

Relana: For now, I can stay here and perhaps talk them Wesnothians out of attacking us directly, but I don't think s it will work forever. To survive this, we needs to act quick, Baldras.

Baldras: Then we'll go to Elensefar as fast as we can. Lucky be with ya, Relana.

Time Runs Out

Baldras: We have tarried here for far too long... there is no way we can reach Elensefar and return with help before the Wesnoth army destroys our homes. Retreat!!

Defeat

Narrator: Baldras and Relana returned to their villages to find them destroyed, with those who fought left dead and the few survivors born away to unguessable fates. It was a bitter doom, and as Wesnoth descended into darkness they would live to see worse.

Scenario 4: Unlawful Orders

Introductory Dialogue

Baldras: Maddock, I be coming to report-

Lord Maddock: I am already aware of your altercation in Dallben, Baldras. Your dissent was not wise.

Baldras: Dissent? Maddock, I'm not trusting no strange riders who show up out of nowhere claimin' to be from the Queen. Seems like a bunch of pig-dirt to me.

Lord Maddock: That was partially my fault, since I was not able to send a messenger to you in time. I shall have to inform you now. Five weeks ago, at the Ford of Abez, Queen Asheviere's men allied themselves with the northern orcs and betrayed King Garard II.

Since Prince Eldred died in the battle, the Queen took the throne and has been consolidating her power. Part of that has been bringing the elders from the local villages here, forcing them to swear allegiance to her. That was the purpose of that patrol.

Baldras: Annuvin province be ruled by Elensefar! We has no duty to Weldyn.

Lord Maddock: You do now. I do not really need to tell you what will happen should you refuse Her Majesty's offer.

Baldras: Grow a spine, Maddock. If they come to ya and make you swear fealty to this Asheviere, would ya really give up that easy?

Lord Maddock: Well, they do not come within the walls of my city. There is a large garrison south at the great fortress of Halstead, but even should they mobilize all their troops, I doubt they could take Elensefar. It is true that for now, the majority of my forces are still returning from the battle of Abez, but unless we are attacked within the next few days, I shall be able to hold the city.

Baldras: And what about us? Throw us like dogs to those Wesnothians?

Lord Maddock: We have an uneasy peace to maintain. The treaty between Elensefar and Wesnoth is ancient, and I do not think Her Majesty means to break it. At the same time, I have some concessions that I shall have to make. I cannot afford a war with Weldyn, as you can surely understand.

Harper: But we can't do nothing! The Queen even be sending them beast orcs against us, that's how evil she is! Surely you can't stand for this...

Lord Maddock: Yes, I am aware of Queen Asheviere's propensity for hiring orcs to supplement her forces. That does not mean I could do anything about it, even if I were so inclined. The best advice I can give you is to just apologize. Even if they may want your head, Baldras, you still have the chance to preserve your village. Think of the bigger picture.

Baldras: The bigger picture of you idly sittin' here waiting till them Wesnothians come to take the city right from your hands.

Lord Maddock: I very much doubt they would be bold enough to attack us outright-

Baldras: Head out of your behind, Maddock. Open your eyes! Look south and tell me that again!

Lord Maddock: An invading army? No, something is not right with those soldiers... but I presume we have no time to ponder that. To arms!

Enemy units attack

Lord Maddock: Hold there, soldier! Can we not come to terms without bloodshed?

Enemy unit: ...

Lord Maddock: Hmmm. Something is wrong indeed...

Dusk

Narrator: The sun sets...

Baldras and Harper watch, petrified, as the skin and the flesh of their adversaries begin to rot away.

Harper: By the Light! Them things look like evil spirits! Are they those undead you told me about, Uncle?

Baldras: They bears some likeness, but these men almost seem half alive. This be some kind of truly dreadful sorcery.

Finding the chest

Unit: Hey, look! Some buried trasure!

Dawn Approaches

Lord Maddock: So, their human aspect returns. Whatever these creatures are, we shall crush them all under the light of the sun.

Victory

Killer: Who are you? What are you?

Kestrel: We... are accursed. We were the soldiers of Prince Eldred, the King's son and betrayer... when the Prince was slain at the hands of the mage Delfador, those of us who bore witness to it were warped into these twisted forms. Now, our mortal bodies pass... into another plane of hellish existence...

Lord Maddock: Such is the price for trachery.

Baldras: Maddock, we helped you defend your city. Will you help us now?

Lord Maddock: ...

Listen carefully. I shall not openly speak against Asheviere seeing as some of her spies are in the city... however, rest assured, I certainly do not trust the Queen and her questionable tactics.

Baldras: What can ya offer us then?

Lord Maddock: Well, I do not normally make my relationship with them known, but I can make an exception. South-east of here, in Carcyn, you may find assistance from one of my... contacts. Their methods should be better suited to your needs. As for your homes, I cannot offer you protection against Weldyn, but I can arrange for some roads to be closed to delay their patrols. That is the most I can do for you.

Baldras: Hmph. Clear that you won't help us fight, but I gots no more time to be stayin' here. If we is going to resist the Crown a second time, we needs ourselves a good plan. Hope that you're not sending us to our deaths, Maddock.

Time Runs Out

Baldrass: Look, more riders come from the southeast. We cannot survive another assault. We are finished!

Defeat

Narrator: Asheviere's armies assembled and struck before the nascent rebellion could even be planned. Without the necessary forces, Annuvin soon fell under Weldyn's absolute control.

Scenario 5: Hide and Seek

Story Text

22 Deeproot, 501 YW

Been a tough few days since we left Elensefar with all them patrols running around. Going by boat along the Great River, we has been managing to avoid them Wesnothians, but being constantly on the lookout be real taxing. I truly be starting to feel tiredness in my bones... old men like me should be sitting back at home, resting our grey bodies and watchin' over them younger folk growing up. I don't got no business here, running around as some outlaw. Maybe if I was ten years younger...

Anyway, the messenger I sent back to Relana should be in Delwyn already. We should be arriving to Carcyn soon too, to where that coward Maddock said his 'contact' be. Truths be told, I don't know how this'll be turning out, especially since I don't be no social butterfly like sis were. Don't like me no city folk really. But I'll deal with them if I gots to.

Introductory Dialogue

Narrator: Relentlessly pursued by riders patrolling the road to Elensefar, Baldras and his men traveled unseen along the swampy banks of the Great River to the city of Carcyn. They hid until nightfall, then crept out to find the help Lord Maddock hinted was here.

Harper: Wow, is that Carcyn in the distance? Look at how grand some of them spires be!

Baldras: Not since I were a young lad did I come this far south. Maybe it looks impressive now, but city life weren't never something real nice. Them city folk be real impatient and mean. Always wantin' some price for their help, too.

Harper: Well, we need their help now, don't we? So we got to work out a way to get to Lord Maddock's friend. But he didn't say anything about who that was.

Baldras: Harper, when a noble lord says he don't want some kind of relationship known, it means some kind o' connection with the black market. We be looking for criminals, probably some thieves' den. Or, maybe they be looking for us.

Right on time.

Harper: How do we know we can trust him?

Link: If you were one of my quarries, your throat would be slit by now, boy. As it is, you two are still in imminent danger. Just a week ago, the Crown sent a contingent of heavy infantry here to supervise the city. They're patrolling the streets and forests for us.

Baldras: I be assuming they'll also try to stop us if they see us.

Link: Very likely. Now hurry, you must make it past the city into the Grey Woods. There is a small path in the south-east that leads into the forest. Look for the signpost. My brother Hans will guide you from there. Avoid the soldiers if you can.

See the Town Guards

Unit: Looks like these guards be holding stationary posts. If we're careful, we can get ourselves around them unnoticed.

Baldras: Harper, you younger and faster folks need to be our eyes. Scout ahead and find a way past the guards, but make sure ya don't get yourself spotted...

Town Guards Start Chasing

Enemy unit: Who goes there? Halt!

Harper: They've seen us! Run!

Hans is found

Hans: This way, into the forest! We'll be able to lose them in the Grey Woods.

Baldras reaches the signpost

Baldras: I haven't run so much in years. Feels like I be a real outlaw now, infiltrating a heavily guarded city relyin' on nothing but the cover of darkness and my wits.

Harper: It was fun, wasn't it?

Baldras: Perhaps a little.

Hans: Enough chatter, you still have some guards on your tail. We need to head deeper into the Grey Woods to lose them.

Baldras: Lead the way.

Someone else reaches the signpost

Hans: You can come if you wish, but we are mostly interested in speaking to Baldras.

Time Runs Out

Baldras: We have spent too much time here. Surely the Queen's forces have returned to Dallben. Our mission is unfinished, but we must return to fight a suicide battle.

Scenario 6: The Hunters

Story Text

24 Deeproot, 501 YW

The sun don't really shine at all in these Grey Woods, but truth be told, I has be getting used to it more and more. Lounging out in the warm daylight, talkin' with Erwen while watching them kids play out in the fields... those times were so long ago. Our lives weren't never real peaceful, but back then, we had our homes, our friends and our family... now we be creatures of the dark.

It be real lonesome like this. I still has me Harper, and I be grateful for the boy, but he don't really understand an old man like me. I know the past be the past, but I just can't help but think of sis in times like these. How she used to be dragging me out on some silly little romp, a little job here and there for some gold or lil trinket, or sometimes just for fun... I never wanted to go, of course. I were always real lazy. Still am, even now.

Then, Harper tells me, "Come on Uncle, we're on an adventure! Don't be so mopey, live a little!" I know he be trying to be cheery, but he really don't know how much he be reminding me of her sometimes...

I must be strong. That's what I tells myself. I should be strong, but... I don't know what be keeping me going, if it be this misguided sense of pride, or my duties to the village, or Harper, or even just remembering the past, making some futile attempts to go back to better times.

Either way, I be here now, on this adventure.

Introductory Dialogue

Baldras: The leader, I presumes.

Helicrom: Indeed, I am Lord Helicrom, the Crow of the Grey Woods. We are acquaintances of Lord Maddock, who sent word to us of your predicament. I believe we can work something out for your situation.

Baldras: What be your pursuits?

Helicrom: The former king's magic ministry kept a tight control on the training and employment of mages in Wesnoth. Those who dared to... depart from the curriculum were dealt with harshly. Many of us were forced to escape here to continue our study of our brand of magic. Our security and secrecy are not cheap.

Baldras: Then you be fellow outlaws. But why do you wants to help us?

Helicrom: Quid pro quo. Our aid is never given freely. You have something that may be useful to us.

Baldras: Manpower. Mages be no good at fighting, I knows. But what for?

Helicrom: Understand this. Any weakening of the Throne of Wesnoth, whether it be occupied by king or queen, aids us. To accomplish that, we must destabilize their forces in this region. The key is Halstead.

Harper: The great fort standing between Aldril and Elensefar?

Baldras: Aye, Harper. What the mage says be no surprise. It be a bastion of central importance, rivallin' Elensefar even. Maddock said the Queen's troops were gathering there. But we gots no way to fight a war with them, not since Maddock won't send his soldiers to battle.

Helicrom: Know this, Baldras. During the past week, several patrols have again ventured across the Great River into Annuvin. A woman named Relana opposed them with a small militia and was victorious, but with heavy losses. The Crown, however, has begun to take notice of this rebellion and is massing forces within Halstead. When its armies are raised, none of your little villages will be able to resist them. Your only choice would be to flee further north into orcish territory.

Harper: We'd never survive there. But would it be so bad if we just swore fealty to the Queen?

Baldras: Only if we gots no other choice. Let's hear the mage's plan first.

Helicrom: I'm not asking you to fight a war. A direct fight against Weldyn's armies would be undoubtedly foolish. However, we have other means within our grasp. From Dan Tonk to Halstead, the fastest path lies through the pass between the Brown Hills and the Gryphon Mountains followed by the trek through these Grey Woods. We are in prime position to gnaw away at their troops, crippling their forces before they ever arrive at their destination.

Baldras: Then what?

Helicrom: I am sure you can guess, magistrate.

Baldras: You means to sack Halstead itself.

Harper: There's no way we can fight them all... can we?

Baldras: I don't know. But, for now, ambushing them patrols be easy enough. That'll slow them Wesnothians down enough for us to work out the next step.

Helicrom: In the last day, my scouts have counted five platoons of troops marching towards the garrison. We must eliminate them all before they reach the outpost at the end of the woods. The outpost also must not be alerted to our presence, or we will have the bulk of their forces upon us.

Harper: The first platoon approaches...

Helicrom: My men and I shall pincer them from the oter side of this path. When we are done, no-one shall fear the open roads and night sky more than the armies of Weldyn. Strike quickly, strike silently... and leave no one alive.

Finding the coffin

Unit: There is a waterlogged coffin here.

Finding the key

Unit: There's a rusty key here. I wonder if it could be useful?

Afterwards

Unit: Hey, that key fits in this coffin. Should I open it?

Baldras: No, that be a terrible idea.

Fine, do it.

Unit: What is this disgusting monster?

Helicrom: A ghoul, a creature of disease and pestilence. Kill the putrid thing. Its stench is making me sick.

The ghoul is killed

Helicrom: Disgusting though it may be, perhaps that creature's corpse could be useful.

Taking the potion

Unit: Should I use this potion?

Yes, I'll use it

Narrator: Vile Concoction: This unit's melee weapons gain the poison special and this unit gains a small number of hitpoints.

No, I'll leave it for someone else

Reaching the reel

Unit: Bleagh, a slimy tentacle. Why's it so big?

Finding the tent

Unit: Hey, I found some old coins in this shack.

Attacking the lead patrol

Linneus: It's an ambush! Run!

Helicrom finds the sword

Helicrom: Ah, here it is. I was wondering where I had misplaced my favourite blade.

Dawn

Archarel: Several platoons of troops were supposed to arrive today. I wonder if something happened to them.

Turn 11

Enemy unit: Doesn't something about these woods feel weird to you, sir?

Lead patrol: Afraid of ghost, soldier?

Enemy unit: ...

Turn 18

Archarel: Something about these woods seems quite unnatural. Perhaps we should stop sending our soldiers this way.

Turn 21

Lead patrol: Woods, woods, woods and more woods! Bah, that general had better have a good reason for dragging me out to Halstead with all these oafs.

Enemy unit: But cap'n, we're your loyal troops...

Lead patrol: Shut it and keep moving.

Victory

Baldras: It be done. Their patrols be shattered and broken.

Helicrom: Well done, but the fight is far from over. We will not be able to employ these tactics when more platoons arrive. You must make your choice. Will you fight? Or will you return to your village and beg for amnesty?

Baldras: Amnesty? Knowing these Wesnothians, they'll have my head. Then again, if I could gives my life to save my whole village, I would.

Harper: We need you! Uncle...

Baldras: I know what you is going to say, Harper. That we should be fighting for our homes, just like we do against them orcs. But we be risking everything on this, lad.

Harper: If we go back like this, that means we'll surrender to them Wesnothians and live our whole lives in oppression. You saw how they were sending so many soldiers and even orcs against us.

Helicrom: The boy is naïve, but his spirit is in the right place. You risk your homes and the lives of your people, yes, but what good will they be if you live in tyranny? Believe me, I have been there. I would rather die than go back.

Baldras: Yes... Erwen would've said the same. If we march on Halstead, we gots to burn it to the ground before the Queen's forces rally. If we does that, Weldyn won't have no foothold in Annuvin no more.

Helicrom: It would be months before they could reassemble their forces here. Enough time for you to secure your homes, or relocate.

Baldras: Then it be decided. We'll attack the fort together. Luck be with us.

Defeat

Archarel: Look there! Outlaws and bandits roam these woods, harrying our patrols!

Troops, to arms! Show these fugitive scum the meaning of the Queen's law!

Helicrom: With the outpost aware of our presence, we can no longer harry their reinforcements. Their forces will soon grow too powerful for us to resist.

Scenario 7: Glory

Story Text

From the Annals of Alduin, 98 YW

One score and eight years ago, in 70 YW, the King of Wesnoth and the Lord of Elensefar signed a treaty of trade and alliance in order to further the security of mankind. The realization of this treaty required the creation of a safe path between Weldyn and Elensefar, with all manner of hostile creature or beast scoured from these civilized lands. From Dan Tonk, the establishment of Aldryl and Carcyn secured the once hazardous passage alongside the Grey Woods, completing the way between the two cities. With this, the alliance can truly be deemed a coalition of men.

To commemorate the concordat, six years ago, the Lords of Weldyn and Elensefar decreed that a monument be erected in the heart of these once wild lands. We, the magi of Alduin, lent our services to demonstrate the full prowess and might of human magic. Above a series of old catacombs in a scant hill, we spent these years raising an immense stronghold from the earth's living rock.

Completed, as it is on this day, this sentinel of the west now towers hundred of paces tall, a great monolith looming sheer above the plains. the sight of these colossal walls, to even us magi, is both awe-inspiring and terrifying. So tall these towers peak and so mighty thee walls arie that such a feat seems more like a force of nature than a work of a man. That we have fashioned this muntain as insignificant humans is almost inconceivable. Halstead, as we have named it, is impenetrable. No-one shall ever overcome these tidal waves of stone.

Introductory Dialogue

Baldras: There be it. The stronghold of Halstead.

Harper: Look at how tall it is! Those towers be so sheer and smooth, it almost looks like magic called them up out of the earth!

Baldras: Aye, there may be some truths in that. Old stories tells us that in times past, Elensefar and Weldyn had some real strong mages, much more adept than them ones who only be politicking nowadays. They helped tame the lands between the cities and forged the walls of Halstead itself to honour the alliance.

Harper: I don't see how we can bring it down. They seem invincible in there!

Baldras: Indeed...

Helicrom: Worry not, Halstead has a weakness. What Baldras spoke was partly true. Previous orders of magi did help erect the fortress. What is not made known to most is that the original construction of the castle was flawed.

These walls were raised over a system of catacombs, which connect the four towers to the central keep. Though they appear impressive, the tunnels were never meant to hold up such a tremendous weight. Supports were added later to hold up the middle, which eventually began to collapse without them. Naturally, this was made secret by the magi, who did not want others to learn of their error.

Harper: So... we can knock out the supports and bring down the main keep. Would it really work?

Helicrom: I believe it will. Each tower has a passage down to the catacombs. We must enter the tunnels and demolish all four supports, then the fortress should crumble.

Baldras: Let's hope you be right. Everything be hinging on this battle.

Turn 1

Vashna: Dommel! The Queen has sent me and my warriors to support your forces. We come to squash the puny peasant rebellion.

Dommel: I received no word from Her Majesty of your arrival, orc.

Vashna: I have the orders right here.

Dommel: I do not care. I would be a fool and an oaf to let a band of stinky raider orcs into Halstead without a fight.

Vashna: What? Now look here, you coddled pink-skin. Your helpless 'soldiers' have been getting bested by a filthy bunch of vagrant bandits. Your army is as useless as you are pink. the Queen sent us here to clean up the mess that you are clearly too stupid to fix on your own.

Dommel: A fine story. Most likely, this is a pitiful excuse for you to enter our fortress to plunder our armoury. Even if Her Majesty did order you here, we have no need for the help of you uncouth orcs. We have always managed just fine without you.

Vashna: Yeah? Well, we will see how finr you manage against us. I'll show you just how weak you pink-skins are.

Dommel: Come and try it, cretin.

Helicrom: Infighting among the forces of Weldyn does not bode well for the new queen, but is awfully convenient for us...

Reaching the stronghold

Dommel: They have breached the fortress gate! Repulse them!

Attacking Dommel's side

Dommel: I think... I think they're trying to storn Halstead itself... the fools!

Turn 6

Narrator: Not even a fully day had passed before the first advance elements of Wesnoth's main army began to arrive...

Turn 8

Unit: Look in the distance... riders approach!

Ally unit: Sound the advance!

At your order, my liege.

Sir Gwydion: Lo, Knights of Elensefar, the battle hath begun ere our arrival. Though I disobey my father in this endeavour, our presence surely is much needed.

Ready thine lances, mine brethren, Let us charge down the armies of Weldyn!

Unit: A horde of knights, bearing the emblem of Elensefar! Amazing. I've never seen me so many riders in one place.

Baldras: Gwydion be Lord Maddock's son... more be hinging on victory than I thought. This battle don't just be about our little villages no more.

Killing Dommel

Unit: Your time is over, General.

Dommel: I may be done... but my death shall only bring the full wrath of the Crown upon you... relish your small victory, peasants, while you still can...

Killing Vashna

Vashna: Grrarrghh... you... fools...

Helicrom dies

Helicrom: Ended... like this? Fight on without me...

Reaching the wooden trap doors

Unit: I'm inside! I'm heading down to the catacombs.

Narrator: After some time...

Unit: It's done.

The last one

Narrator: The stronghold of Halstead began to shake...

Unit: We can't stay here. The fortress is starting to collapse!

The next turn

Baldras: I think it be working! Everybody get clear!

Victory dialogue

Narrator: With a thunderous roar and a vast billowing of dust, thousands of tons of stone and wood crashed in on itself. Some of the wreckage tumbled down the steep sides, while the remainder came to rest several hundred feet below ground, in the bowels of the hollowed-out mountains.

No-one inside the fortress would make it out alive.

Liberty - Epilogue

3 Scryer's Bloom, 501 YW

It were a real shock. I were so stunned, I barely even remember what happened after.

Helicrom, I don't know what happened to him, didn't see what happened to Maddock's son either. Me, Harper and the few of us who survived got up and ran. We be heading back north now, towards Carcyn and Elensefar. Them patrols seems to be in real disarray, mostrly seeming to be riding back south to regroup. It be looking like we really did disrupt Weldyn's chain of command.

I'm sure them Wesnothians will come back in time and with Maddock holed up in his stupid tower, they'll eventually lay siege to Elensefar and take the city... but that don't be my problem anymore. I has me a village to worry about. I need to get back, consult myself with Relana and work out what to do next. We gots some more time now, but we can't wait forever.

10 Scryer's Bloom, 501 YW

We got back to Dallben today, but the village were empty. There were a few bodies and some burned houses, but it weren't raided or nothing. Must've been one of them Wesnoth patrols, curse those damned stinkers! When I first saw the scene with my eyes, I thoughts that we failed, that we was too late... but now that I thinks of it, it be real weird that so few died. The others must've escaped to somewhere. But I didn't see any clues here.

I sended Harper off to Delwyn. Hope he'll find something there. In the meantimes, I'll rest this tired body for a little and go and see sis, maybe pick her up some lilies. Seems like this'll probably be the last time I gets to see her...

She'll tell me not to be sad, of course. That life just be a big adventure and filled with fun, that I shouldn't think about stuffs I can't change. The world be huge and vast, much bigger than small little people like me. I don't got the power to change it, so why not try to live as best I can? Besides, she'll say that I still gots me a little piece of her in Harper, so I should cherish the lad.

I do, Erwen, I really do. This all be real hard. I don't be no brave soul, nor some great warrior, but I does my best. And I haven't forgotten about all them good times we had together - somehow, some way, they keeps me going. Me and Harper, we won't give up till the very end.

14 Scryer's Bloom, 501 YW

Harper got back today from Delwyn. Said he didn't find no-one alive there, but he did bring back a note he found. Let's see what it says.

"Baldras, you would've been proud. Wefought them soldiers off twice, gave them a good ol' thrashing they won't ever forget. But in the end, it weren't enough. We had to run like criminals before they killed us all."

"I don't know if you and Harper will see this note, but if you do, I'm expecting ya to come and find us. Remember them ol' pirate islands we used to hear some of them Elensefar sailors talk about? We be heading there, south-west of the city and past the land's end. See you in the Three Sisters, old friend. - Relana"

So they survived! Them islands be a bit far, but I suppose this sack of old bones has one more adventure left in it...

L: Specified Unit Names

Humans

  • Baldras (Village Elder)
  • Jalak (Peasant Youth)
  • Delurin (Peasant Youth)
  • Red (Peasant Youth)
  • Ordo (Village Elder)
  • Novus (Village Elder)
  • Teneor (Villager)
  • Kembe (Peasant Hunter)
  • Treagh (Peasant Hunter)
  • Harper (Peasant Youth)
  • Remald (Villager)
  • Womas (Villager)
  • Jasken (Villager)
  • Tarwen (Cavalier)
  • Relana (Senior Village Elder)
  • Lord Maddock (General)
  • Kestrel (General)
  • Rothel (Lieutenant)
  • Quentin (Master Bowman)
  • Hans (Rogue)
  • Link (Thief)
  • Helicrom (Shadow Lord)
  • Archarel (Royal Guard)
  • Linneus (Iron Mauler)
  • Jingo (Outlaw)
  • Majel (Outlaw)
  • Pitcher (Dragoon)
  • Dommel (General)
  • Sir Gwydion (Paladin)

Orcs

  • Fal Khag (Goblin Pillager)
  • Gatrakh (Goblin Pillager)
  • Thurg (Goblin Pillager)
  • Krung (Wolf Rider, Goblin Pillager)
  • Gorokh (Wolf Rider, Goblin Pillager)
  • Urk Delek (Orcish Warrior)
  • Vashna (Orcish Warlord)

Saurians

Undead

  • Mal-Jarrof (Necromancer)
  • Mal-Jerod (Necromancer)
  • Lich (Sel-Mang)

Labels

  • Dallben
  • Elensefar
  • Port of Elensefar
This page was last edited on 23 August 2022, at 08:21.